bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Dyna-Q for Rapid Learning and Improved Formation Achievement in Cooperative Transportation
Authors: Budiyanto Almira , Matsunaga Nobutomo
Published: July 2023

Nowadays, academic research, disaster mitigation, industry, and transportation apply the cooperative multi-agent concept. A cooperative multi-agent system is a multi-agent system that works together to solve problems or maximise utility. The essential marks of formation control are how the multiple agents can reach the desired point while maintaining their position in the formation based on the dynamic conditions and environment. A cooperative multi-agent system closely relates to the formation change issue. It is necessary to change the arrangement of multiple agents according to the environmental conditions, such as when avoiding obstacles, applying different sizes and shapes of tracks, and moving different sizes and shapes of transport objects. Reinforcement learning is a good method to apply in a formation change environment. On the other hand, the complex formation control process requires a long learning time. This paper proposed using the Deep Dyna-Q algorithm to speed up the learning process while improving the formation achievement rate by tuning the parameters of the Deep Dyna-Q algorithm. Even though the Deep Dyna-Q algorithm has been used in many applications, it has not been applied in an actual experiment. The contribution of this paper is the application of the Deep Dyna-Q algorithm in formation control in both simulations and actual experiments. This study successfully implements the proposed method and investigates formation control in simulations and actual experiments. In the actual experiments, the Nexus robot with a robot operating system (ROS) was used. To confirm the communication between the PC and robots, camera processing, and motor controller, the velocities from the simulation were directly given to the robots. The simulations could give the same goal points as the actual experiments, so the simulation results approach the actual experimental results. The discount rate and learning rate values affected the formation change achievement rate, collision number among agents, and collisions between agents and transport objects. For learning rate comparison, DDQ (0.01) consistently outperformed DQN. DQN obtained the maximum −170 reward in about 130,000 episodes, while DDQ (0.01) could achieve this value in 58,000 episodes and achieved a maximum −160 reward. The application of an MEC (model error compensator) in the actual experiment successfully reduced the error movement of the robots so that the robots could produce the formation change appropriately.
A New Reverse Extended Hardy–Hilbert’s Inequality with Two Partial Sums and Parameters
Authors: Liao Jianquan , Yang Bicheng
Published: July 2023

By using the methods of real analysis and the mid-value theorem, we introduce some lemmas and obtain a new reverse extended Hardy–Hilbert’s inequality with two partial sums and multi-parameters. We also give a few equivalent conditions of the best possible constant factor related to several parameters in the new inequality. Some particular inequalities are deduced.
On Estimation of Reliability Functions for the Extended Rayleigh Distribution under Progressive First-Failure Censoring Model
Authors: Abu-Moussa Mahmoud Hamed , Alsadat Najwan , Sharawy Ali
Published: July 2023

When conducting reliability studies, the progressive first-failure censoring (PFFC) method is useful in situations in which the units of the life testing experiment are separated into groups consisting of k units each with the intention of seeing only the first failure in each group. Using progressive first-failure censored samples, the statistical inference for the parameters, reliability, and hazard functions of the extended Rayleigh distribution (ERD) are investigated in this study. The asymptotic normality theory of maximum likelihood estimates (MLEs) is used in order to acquire the maximum likelihood estimates (MLEs) together with the asymptotic confidence intervals (Asym. CIs). Bayesian estimates (BEs) of the parameters and the reliability functions under different loss functions may be produced by using independent gamma informative priors and non-informative priors. The Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) approach is used so that Bayesian computations are performed with ease. In addition, the MCMC method is used in order to create credible intervals (Cred. CIs) for the parameters, which may be used for either informative or non-informative priors. Additionally, computations for the reliability functions are carried out. A Monte Carlo simulation study is carried out in order to provide a comparison of the behaviour of the different estimations that were created for this work. At last, an actual data set is dissected for the purpose of providing an example.
Current Effect on the Performances of All-Solid-State Lithium-Ion Batteries—Peukert’s Law
Authors: Rudy A. S. , Skundin A. M. , Mironenko A. A. , Naumov V. V.
Published: July 2023

The results from measuring the capacity of thin-film solid-state lithium-ion batteries (SSLIBs) Ti|Si@O@Al|LiPON|LiCoO2|Ti, Ti|Si@O@Al|LiPON|LixV2O5|Ti, and Ti|LiPON|LiCoO2|Ti at different charge currents are reported. It is shown that the dependence of the capacity on the current density Q(j) follows Peukert’s law, which is characterized by a low value of Peukert’s exponents in the region of low currents and a high value of the exponents in the region of high currents. Peukert’s exponent for the anode-free cell remains constant through the entire range of current density variation. A model for SSLIB capacity based on the balance of ion (diffusion and drift) and electron currents is proposed. The model predicts a Q(j) dependence well approximating the experimental results and fitting Peukert’s law. The model allows a qualitative interpretation of the change in the Peukert exponent with increasing current density, based on the effect of the charge current saturation.
Exploring the Antimicrobial, Anticancer, and Apoptosis Inducing Ability of Biofabricated Silver Nanoparticles Using Lagerstroemia speciosa Flower Buds against the Human Osteosarcoma (MG-63) Cell Line via Flow Cytometry
Authors: Shashiraj Kariyellappa Nagaraja , Hugar Anil , Kumar Raju Suresh , Rudrappa Muthuraj , Bhat Meghashyama Prabhakara , Almansour Abdulrahman I. , Perumal Karthikeyan , Nayaka Sreenivasa
Published: July 2023

Biosynthesized nano-composites, such as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), can be engineered to function as smart nano-biomedicine platforms for the detection and management of diverse ailments, such as infectious diseases and cancer. This study determined the eco-friendly fabrication of silver nanoparticles using Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers. flower buds and their efficacy against antimicrobial and anticancer activities. The UV-Visible spectrum was found at 413 nm showing a typical resonance spectrum for L. speciosa flower bud extract-assisted silver nanoparticles (Ls-AgNPs). Fourier transform infrared analysis revealed the presence of amines, halides, and halogen compounds, which were involved in the reduction and capping agent of AgNP formation. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the face-centered cubic crystals of NPs. Energy dispersive X-ray verified the weight of 39.80% of silver (Ag), TEM analysis revealed the particles were spherical with a 10.27 to 62.5 nm range, and dynamic light scattering recorded the average particle size around 58.5 nm. Zeta potential showed a significant value at −39.4 mV, and finally, thermo-gravimetric analysis reported higher thermal stability of Ls-AgNPs. Further, the obtained Ls-AgNPs displayed good antimicrobial activity against clinical pathogens. In addition, a dose-dependent decrease in the anticancer activity by MTT assay on the osteosarcoma (MG-63) cell line showed a decrease in the cell viability with increasing in the concentration of Ls-AgNPs with an IC50 value of 37.57 µg/mL. Subsequently, an apoptotic/necrosis study was conducted with the help of Annexin-V/PI assay, and the results indicated a significant rise in early and late apoptosis cell populations. Therefore, green synthesized Ls-AgNPs were found to have potent antimicrobial and anticancer properties making them fascinating choices for future bio-medical implementations.
ClearF++: Improved Supervised Feature Scoring Using Feature Clustering in Class-Wise Embedding and Reconstruction
Authors: Wang Sehee , Kim So Yeon , Sohn Kyung-Ah
Published: July 2023

Feature selection methods are essential for accurate disease classification and identifying informative biomarkers. While information-theoretic methods have been widely used, they often exhibit limitations such as high computational costs. Our previously proposed method, ClearF, addresses these issues by using reconstruction error from low-dimensional embeddings as a proxy for the entropy term in the mutual information. However, ClearF still has limitations, including a nontransparent bottleneck layer selection process, which can result in unstable feature selection. To address these limitations, we propose ClearF++, which simplifies the bottleneck layer selection and incorporates feature-wise clustering to enhance biomarker detection. We compare its performance with other commonly used methods such as MultiSURF and IFS, as well as ClearF, across multiple benchmark datasets. Our results demonstrate that ClearF++ consistently outperforms these methods in terms of prediction accuracy and stability, even with limited samples. We also observe that employing the Deep Embedded Clustering (DEC) algorithm for feature-wise clustering improves performance, indicating its suitability for handling complex data structures with limited samples. ClearF++ offers an improved biomarker prioritization approach with enhanced prediction performance and faster execution. Its stability and effectiveness with limited samples make it particularly valuable for biomedical data analysis.
BU-DLNet: Breast Ultrasonography-Based Cancer Detection Using Deep-Learning Network Selection and Feature Optimization
Authors: Zafar Amad , Tanveer Jawad , Ali Muhammad Umair , Lee Seung Won
Published: July 2023

Early detection of breast lesions and distinguishing between malignant and benign lesions are critical for breast cancer (BC) prognosis. Breast ultrasonography (BU) is an important radiological imaging modality for the diagnosis of BC. This study proposes a BU image-based framework for the diagnosis of BC in women. Various pre-trained networks are used to extract the deep features of the BU images. Ten wrapper-based optimization algorithms, including the marine predator algorithm, generalized normal distribution optimization, slime mold algorithm, equilibrium optimizer (EO), manta-ray foraging optimization, atom search optimization, Harris hawks optimization, Henry gas solubility optimization, path finder algorithm, and poor and rich optimization, were employed to compute the optimal subset of deep features using a support vector machine classifier. Furthermore, a network selection algorithm was employed to determine the best pre-trained network. An online BU dataset was used to test the proposed framework. After comprehensive testing and analysis, it was found that the EO algorithm produced the highest classification rate for each pre-trained model. It produced the highest classification accuracy of 96.79%, and it was trained using only a deep feature vector with a size of 562 in the ResNet-50 model. Similarly, the Inception-ResNet-v2 had the second highest classification accuracy of 96.15% using the EO algorithm. Moreover, the results of the proposed framework are compared with those in the literature.
Demographic Factors Predict Risk of Lymph Node Involvement in Patients with Endometrial Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Anderson Eric M. , Luu Michael , Kamrava Mitchell
Published: July 2023

The presence of lymph node positivity (LN+) guides adjuvant treatment for endometrial adenocarcinoma (EAC) patients, but recommendations regarding LN evaluation at the time of primary surgery remain variable. Sociodemographic factors in addition to pathologic tumor characteristics may more accurately predict risk of LN+ in EAC patients. Patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2016 with pathologic T1-T2 EAC who had at least one lymph node sampled at the time of surgery in the National Cancer Data Base were included. Pathologic primary tumor predictors of LN+ were identified using logistic regression. To predict overall, pelvic only, and paraaortic and/or pelvic LN+, nomograms were generated. Among the 35,170 EAC patients included, 2864 were node positive. Using multivariable analysis, younger patient age (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.98–0.99, p < 0.001), black versus white race (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.01–1.40, p = 0.04), increasing pathologic tumor stage and grade, increase in tumor size, and presence of lymphovascular invasion were predictive of regional LN+. Both black versus white (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.27–2.09, p < 0.001) and other versus white race (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.12–2.07, p = 0.006) strongly predicted paraaortic LN+ in the multivariable analysis. Independent subset analyses of black and white women revealed that tumor grade was a stronger predictor of LN+ among black women. In addition to standard pathologic tumor features, patient age and race were associated with a higher risk of regional LN+ generally and paraaortic LN+ specifically. This information may inform adjuvant treatment decisions and guide future studies.
GABA and Combined GABA with GAD65-Alum Treatment Alters Th1 Cytokine Responses of PBMCs from Children with Recent-Onset Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Heath Katie E. , Feduska Joseph M. , Taylor Jared P. , Houp Julie A. , Botta Davide , Lund Frances E. , Mick Gail J. , McGwin Gerald , McCormick Kenneth L. , Tse Hubert M.
Published: July 2023

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease culminating in the destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic cells. There is a need for the development of novel antigen-specific strategies to delay cell destruction, including combinatorial strategies that do not elicit systemic immunosuppression. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is expressed by immune cells, β-cells, and gut bacteria and is immunomodulatory. Glutamic-acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65), which catalyzes GABA from glutamate, is a T1D autoantigen. To test the efficacy of combinatorial GABA treatment with or without GAD65-immunization to dampen autoimmune responses, we enrolled recent-onset children with T1D in a one-year clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02002130) and examined T cell responses. We isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells and evaluated cytokine responses following polyclonal activation and GAD65 rechallenge. Both GABA alone and GABA/GAD65-alum treatment inhibited Th1 cytokine responses over the 12-month study with both polyclonal and GAD65 restimulation. We also investigated whether patients with HLA-DR3-DQ2 and HLA-DR4-DQ8, the two highest-risk human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotypes in T1D, exhibited differences in response to GABA alone and GABA/GAD65-alum. HLA-DR4-DQ8 patients possessed a Th1-skewed response compared to HLA-DR3-DQ2 patients. We show that GABA and GABA/GAD65-alum present an attractive immunomodulatory treatment for children with T1D and that HLA haplotypes should be considered.
Role of HNFA1 Gene Variants in Pancreatic Beta Cells Function and Glycaemic Control in Young Individuals with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Robino Antonietta , Tornese Gianluca , Tinti Davide , Dovc Klemen , Castorani Valeria , Conti Andrea , Franceschi Roberto , Rabbone Ivana , Bonfanti Riccardo , Battelino Tadej , Catamo Eulalia
Published: July 2023

The HNF1A transcription factor, implicated in the regulation of pancreatic beta cells, as well as in glucose and lipid metabolism, is responsible for type 3 maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY3). HNF1A is also involved in increased susceptibility to polygenic forms of diabetes, such as type 2 diabetes (T2D) and gestational diabetes (GD), while its possible role in type 1 diabetes (T1D) is not known. In this study, 277 children and adolescents with T1D and 140 healthy controls were recruited. The following SNPs in HNF1A gene were selected: rs1169286, rs1169288, rs7979478, and rs2259816. Through linear or logistic regression analysis, we analyzed their association with T1D susceptibility and related clinical traits, such as insulin dose-adjusted glycated hemoglobin A1c (IDAA1c) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). We found that rs1169286 was associated with IDAA1c and HbA1c values (p-value = 0.0027 and p-value = 0.0075, respectively), while rs1169288 was associated with IDAA1c (p-value = 0.0081). No association between HNF1A SNPs and T1D development emerged. In conclusion, our findings suggest for the first time that HNF1A variants may be a risk factor for beta cell function and glycaemic control in T1D individuals.
Multi-Criterion Sampling Matting Algorithm via Gaussian Process
Authors: Yang Yuan , Gou Hongshan , Tan Mian , Feng Fujian , Liang Yihui , Xiang Yi , Wang Lin , Huang Han
Published: July 2023

Natural image matting is an essential technique for image processing that enables various applications, such as image synthesis, video editing, and target tracking. However, the existing image matting methods may fail to produce satisfactory results when computing resources are limited. Sampling-based methods can reduce the dimensionality of the decision space and, therefore, reduce computational resources by employing different sampling strategies. While these approaches reduce computational consumption, they may miss an optimal pixel pair when the number of available high-quality pixel pairs is limited. To address this shortcoming, we propose a novel multi-criterion sampling strategy that avoids missing high-quality pixel pairs by incorporating multi-range pixel pair sampling and a high-quality sample selection method. This strategy is employed to develop a multi-criterion matting algorithm via Gaussian process, which searches for the optimal pixel pair by using the Gaussian process fitting model instead of solving the original pixel pair objective function. The experimental results demonstrate that our proposed algorithm outperformed other methods, even with 1% computing resources, and achieved alpha matte results comparable to those yielded by the state-of-the-art optimization algorithms.
“Mmm, Smells like Coffee!”: How a Brief Odor Identification Test Could Help to Identify People with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
Authors: Trapp Wolfgang , Heid Andreas , Röder Susanne , Wimmer Franziska , Hajak Göran
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are still underdiagnosed in the general population. Impaired odor identification has been identified as an early marker of MCI and dementia. We aimed to compare the additional diagnostic value of two odor identification tests to a cognitive screening test in detecting MCI or dementia. (2) Methods: The Sniffin’ Sticks odor identification test (SS-OIT), a brief odor identification test (B-OIT) requiring the identification of coffee scent, and the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) were administered to a consecutive series of 174 patients (93 with dementia, 42 with mild cognitive impairment, and 39 without cognitive impairment) referred for neuropsychological testing. (3) Results: Both participants with dementia and with MCI exhibited impairments in odor identification. The SS-OIT and the B-OIT were substantially correlated. Complementing MMSE scores with the SS-OIT or the B-OIT similarly improved the diagnostic accuracy of individuals with dementia and MCI. (4) Conclusions: People with suspected dementia or MCI may already benefit from brief odor identification tests. Although these tests require little additional time, they can notably increase sensitivity for dementia or MCI.
Consecutive Shifts: A Repeated Measure Study to Evaluate Stress, Biomarkers, Social Support, and Fatigue in Medical/Surgical Nurses
Authors: Cockerham Mona , Kang Duck-Hee , Beier Margaret E.
Published: July 2023

Nurses report that they are required to work during their scheduled breaks and generally experience extended work times and heavy workloads due to staffing shortages. This study aimed to examine changes in personal, work-related, and overall stress, as well as biological responses and fatigue experienced by nurses during three consecutive 12 h workdays (i.e., the typical “three-twelves” schedule). We also considered the moderating effects of social resources. This prospective study of 81 medical/surgical nurses who completed questionnaires and provided saliva samples at four designated intervals (i.e., pre-shift and post-shift on workdays 1 and 3). Fatigue reported by night shift nurses increased significantly over three consecutive workdays (p = 0.001). Day shift nurses said they encountered more social support than those on the night shift (p = 0.05). Social support moderated the relationship between work-related stress at baseline and reported fatigue on day 3.
Osseous Metastases in Thyroid Cancer: Unveiling Risk Factors, Disease Outcomes, and Treatment Impact
Authors: Khired Zenat , Hussein Mohammad , Jishu Jessan , Toreih Ahmed , Shaalan Aly , Ismail Mohammed , Fawzy Manal , Toraih Eman
Published: July 2023

Bone is the second most common site of metastasis in patients with thyroid cancer (TC) and dramatically impacts overall survival and quality of life with no definitive cure, yet there is no extensive study of the demographic and clinical risk factors in the recent literature. Data regarding 120,754 TC patients with bone metastasis were retrieved from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify the risk factors of bone metastasis occurring in various histologies of TC. Cox regression was performed to analyze the influence of bone metastasis on overall survival. Hazard ratios were computed to analyze the association between bone metastasis and the primary outcomes. Of the 120,754 records collected from the SEER database from 2000 to 2019, 976 (0.8%) presented with bone metastasis, with occurrence being the greatest in patients of age ≥ 55 years (OR = 5.63, 95%CI = 4.72–6.71), males (OR = 2.60, 95%CI = 2.27–2.97), Blacks (OR = 2.38, 95%CI = 1.95–2.9) and Asian or Pacific Islanders (OR = 1.90, 95%CI = 1.58–2.27), and single marital status. TC patients presenting with bone metastasis (HR = 2.78, 95%CI = 2.34–3.3) or concurrent bone and brain metastases (HR = 1.62, 95%CI = 1.03–2.55) had a higher mortality risk. Older age, gender, race, and single marital status were associated with bone metastasis and poorer prognosis in TC patients at initial diagnosis. Understanding such risk factors can potentially assist clinicians in making early diagnoses and personalized treatment plans, as well as researchers in developing more therapeutic protocols.
Targeting Oncogenic Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Adrenocortical Carcinoma Disrupts ECM Expression and Impairs Tumor Growth
Authors: Penny Morgan K. , Lerario Antonio M. , Basham Kaitlin J. , Chukkapalli Sahiti , Mohan Dipika R. , LaPensee Chris , Converso-Baran Kimber , Hoenerhoff Mark J. , Suárez-Fernández Laura , Rey Carmen González del , Giordano Thomas J. , Han Ruolan , Newman Erika A. , Hammer Gary D.
Published: July 2023

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare but highly aggressive cancer with limited treatment options and poor survival for patients with advanced disease. An improved understanding of the transcriptional programs engaged in ACC will help direct rational, targeted therapies. Whereas activating mutations in Wnt/β-catenin signaling are frequently observed, the β-catenin-dependent transcriptional targets that promote tumor progression are poorly understood. To address this question, we analyzed ACC transcriptome data and identified a novel Wnt/β-catenin-associated signature in ACC enriched for the extracellular matrix (ECM) and predictive of poor survival. This suggested an oncogenic role for Wnt/β-catenin in regulating the ACC microenvironment. We further investigated the minor fibrillar collagen, collagen XI alpha 1 (COL11A1), and found that COL11A1 expression originates specifically from cancer cells and is strongly correlated with both Wnt/β-catenin activation and poor patient survival. Inhibition of constitutively active Wnt/β-catenin signaling in the human ACC cell line, NCI-H295R, significantly reduced the expression of COL11A1 and other ECM components and decreased cancer cell viability. To investigate the preclinical potential of Wnt/β-catenin inhibition in the adrenal microenvironment, we developed a minimally invasive orthotopic xenograft model of ACC and demonstrated that treatment with the newly developed Wnt/β-catenin:TBL1 inhibitor Tegavivint significantly reduced tumor growth. Together, our data support that the inhibition of aberrantly active Wnt/β-catenin disrupts transcriptional reprogramming of the microenvironment and reduces ACC growth and survival. Furthermore, this β-catenin-dependent oncogenic program can be therapeutically targeted with a newly developed Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor. These results show promise for the further clinical development of Wnt/β-catenin inhibitors in ACC and unveil a novel Wnt/β-catenin-regulated transcriptome.
Within-Modality Synthesis and Novel Radiomic Evaluation of Brain MRI Scans
Authors: Rezaeijo Seyed Masoud , Chegeni Nahid , Baghaei Naeini Fariborz , Makris Dimitrios , Bakas Spyridon
Published: July 2023

One of the most common challenges in brain MRI scans is to perform different MRI sequences depending on the type and properties of tissues. In this paper, we propose a generative method to translate T2-Weighted (T2W) Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) volume from T2-weight-Fluid-attenuated-Inversion-Recovery (FLAIR) and vice versa using Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN). To evaluate the proposed method, we propose a novel evaluation schema for generative and synthetic approaches based on radiomic features. For the evaluation purpose, we consider 510 pair-slices from 102 patients to train two different GAN-based architectures Cycle GAN and Dual Cycle-Consistent Adversarial network (DC2Anet). The results indicate that generative methods can produce similar results to the original sequence without significant change in the radiometric feature. Therefore, such a method can assist clinics to make decisions based on the generated image when different sequences are not available or there is not enough time to re-perform the MRI scans.
An Efficient Investigation and Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Decolorization of Wastewater by Using Zeolite Catalyst in Electro-Fenton Reaction
Authors: El Jery Atef , Aldrdery Moutaz , Shirode Ujwal Ramesh , Gavilán Juan Carlos Orosco , Elkhaleefa Abubakr , Sillanpää Mika , Sammen Saad Sh. , Tizkam Hussam H.
Published: July 2023

The shortage of water resources has caused extensive research to be conducted in this field to develop effective, rapid, and affordable wastewater treatment methods. For the treatment of wastewater, modern oxidation techniques are desirable due to their excellent performance and simplicity of implementation. In this project, wet impregnation and the hydrothermal technique were applied to synthesize a modified catalyst. Different analysis methods were used to determine its characteristics, including XRD, BET, FT-IR, NH3−TPD, and FE-SEM. The catalyst features a spherical shape, large surface area, high crystallinity, and uniform active phase dispersion. In order to eliminate the methylene blue dye as a modeling effluent, the catalyst’s performance was examined in a heterogeneous quasi-electro-Fenton (EF) reaction. The impact of various performance characteristics, such as catalyst concentration in the reaction medium, solution pH, and current intensity between the two electrodes, was elucidated. According to the results, the best operational circumstances included a pH level of 2, a catalyst concentration of 0.15 g/L, and a current of 150 mA, resulting in the greatest elimination efficiency of 101%. The catalyst’s performance was stable during three consecutive tests. A pseudo-first-order model for the elimination reaction’s kinetics was developed, which showed acceptable agreement with the experimental results. This study’s findings help clarify how well the heterogeneous zeolite catalyst functions in the pseudo-EF reaction. The results revealed the method’s potential to be implemented in wastewater treatment. An artificial neural network model is utilized to predict the removal percentage. The hyperparameter tuning is used to find the best model, and the model achieved an MAE of 1.26% and the R2 was 0.99.
A Study of PbF2 Nanoparticles Crystallization Mechanism in Mixed Oxyde-Fluoride Glasses
Authors: Dyussembekova Saule , Trusova Ekaterina , Kichanov Sergey , Podbolotov Kiril , Kozlenko Denis
Published: July 2023

Samples of nanocrystalline PbF2 glass ceramics were obtained by heat-treating SiO2–GeO2–PbO–PbF2–CdF2 glasses. The Ho2O3 and Tm2O3 doping effects on the structural features of PbF2 nanoparticles were studied using small-angle X-ray scattering and X-ray diffraction methods. The enlargements of the average sizes of nanoparticles and the sizes of local areas of density fluctuations have been found to be correlated with an increase in concentrations of Ho2O3 and Tm2O3 in initial glasses. A variation in the concentrations of Ho2O3 and Tm2O3 does not affect the morphology and fractal dimension of the formed PbF2 nanoparticles.
A Review of Cr2+ or Fe2+ Ion-Doped Zinc Sulfide and Zinc Selenide Ceramics as IR Laser Active Media
Authors: Timofeeva Natalia , Balabanov Stanislav , Li Jiang
Published: July 2023

Zinc chalcogenides doped with Cr2+ or Fe2+ ions are of considerable interest as active media for IR lasers operating in the 2–5 µm wavelength range. Such lasers are in demand in various fields of medicine, remote sensing and atmospheric monitoring, ranging, optical communication systems, and military applications. In recent years, however, the rate of improvement in the characteristics of zinc chalcogenide laser sources has slowed considerably. Unwanted thermally induced effects, parasitic oscillations, and laser-induced damage of the active element have hindered the scaling of output power and efficiency. However, the physical and chemical properties of the materials leave ample room for further improvements. In particular, the control of the dopant concentration profile in the active element is of great importance. Zero concentration of Cr2+ or Fe2+ ions on the radiation input/output surfaces can significantly increase the laser-induced damage threshold; the designed concentration distribution in the element volume allows regulation of heat dissipation and reduction of parasitic oscillations. The zinc chalcogenide ceramic technology seems to be the most suitable to solve this challenge. This review presents and discusses the state of the art in ZnS and ZnSe optical and laser ceramics and the directions for further development of their technology.
Assessing Behavioral Disorders with SDQ in Very Preterm Children at 5 Years of Age in LIFT Cohort
Authors: Robert de Saint Vincent Marine , Rouger Valérie , Rozé Jean Christophe , Flamant Cyril , Muller Jean-Baptiste
Published: July 2023

Background: Preterm-born children are at risk of behavioral disorders and the systematic assessment of these disorders remains a challenge. Questions remain about the accuracy of self-reported parent questionnaires and the real everyday life behavior of the child. Aim: To evaluate the association between SDQ reported by parents in the preterm and behavioral difficulties in the everyday school life environment reported by teacher. Methods: All children born before 33 weeks and who followed-up in the LIFT (Loire Infant Follow-up team) network were included. The Strengths and Difficulties Parental Questionnaire (SDQ), completed at 5 years, was used to check for behavioral difficulties and identified three groups: “normal”, “borderline” and “abnormal”. Then, the SDQ results were compared to the Global School Adaptation Score (GSA) at 5 years. Results: Out of the 1825 children followed in the cohort at the age of 5, 1397 questionnaires were analyzed. A total of 11.1% of children had an abnormal score, and 9.7% had a borderline score. Male gender and a lower birth weight z-score were significantly associated with the “abnormal SDQ” group. There is a significant relationship between the probability of being in the “abnormal SDQ” group at 5 years and with difficulty in global school adaptation at 5 years, as well as an SDQ borderline score in the preterm (p < 0.001). Conclusions: SDQ abnormal and borderline scores are associated with behavioral difficulties in the classroom and everyday life behavior. In preterm children, one should be alerted even by a borderline SDQ score.
Influence of Family Social Support and Diabetes Self-Efficacy on the Emotional Wellbeing of Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Villaécija Joaquín , Luque Bárbara , Castillo-Mayén Rosario , Farhane-Medina Naima Z. , Tabernero Carmen
Published: July 2023

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic disease that is usually diagnosed in childhood, underscoring the importance of early disease control for overall wellbeing. Our aim was to design an explanatory model of subjective emotional wellbeing in children and adolescents with T1D. A longitudinal study was conducted at the Reina Sofia University Hospital in Cordoba (Spain). A total of 151 patients (mean age = 14.50, SD = 2.67; 41.1% girls) participated at T1, while 97 participated at T2 (mean age = 14.93, SD = 2.56; 39.2% girls). Participants completed a self-report questionnaire. Descriptive, reliability, correlation, path, and mediation analyses were performed. The explanatory model showed excellent fit indices [χ2 (10) = 8.62, p = 0.57, RMSEA = 0.00, 95% [0.00, 0.10], CFI = 1.00, GFI = 0.98, AGFI = 0.93, and TLI = 1.01]. The results showed significant and positive relationships between family social support and subjective emotional wellbeing and improved self-care skills. Self-efficacy presented a mediating role between family social support and subjective emotional wellbeing. Given that self-efficacy is a self-regulatory mechanism and a determinant of health, it is argued that future psychoeducational interventions could aim to improve self-efficacy to manage chronic diseases, to achieve greater emotional wellbeing in children and adolescents with T1D.
The Association between Internalizing Symptoms and Witnessing School Bullying and Defending Behavior: An Analysis of Gender Differences among Elementary and Middle School Students
Authors: Doumas Diana M. , Midgett Aida , Peck Matt
Published: July 2023

Bullying is a significant public health concern that begins as early as elementary school and peaks in middle school. Although researchers have demonstrated the relationship between internalizing symptoms and being a target of bullying, there is limited research examining the association between internalizing symptoms and witnessing school bullying and defending targets or gender differences in these relationships. In this cross-sectional study, we examined gender as a moderator of the relationships between internalizing symptoms (e.g., depressive symptoms and social anxiety) and witnessing school bullying and defending behavior in a sample of elementary and middle school students (N = 126; 51.6% female; 3rd–8th grade). Results demonstrated that witnessing school bullying was a significant predictor of depressive symptoms. For social anxiety, the gender x witnessing school bullying interaction was significant for social avoidance and distress (SAD), such that among female students, SAD was positively related to witnessing school bullying. In contrast, the gender x defending behavior interaction was significant for fear of negative evaluation (FNE), such that among male students, FNE was positively related to defending behavior. Findings suggest bullying prevention should incorporate bystander training programs that include a focus on gender differences in social anxiety associated with being a bullying bystander.
Group Changes in Cortisol and Heart Rate Variability of Children with Down Syndrome and Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder during Dog-Assisted Therapy
Authors: Griffioen Richard E. , van Boxtel Geert J. M. , Verheggen Theo , Enders-Slegers Marie-Jose , Van Der Steen Steffie
Published: July 2023

Dog-assisted therapy is hypothesized to lower stress in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and children with Down syndrome (DS), which may be visible on a physiological level. In this study, we measured heart rate variability (HRV) and salivary cortisol of 20 children with DS or ASD at the beginning and end of six weekly sessions of dog-assisted therapy. We found a decrease of cortisol levels during single sessions, but no overall effect after six sessions (six weeks). The effect of dog-assisted therapy on the increase of HRV could not be confirmed. This study is one of the first to use physiological measurements to test the effects of DAT.
Brief Autism Mealtime Behavior Inventory (BAMBI): Italian Translation and Validation
Authors: Lamboglia Antonella , Romano Roberta , Valente Donatella , Berardi Anna , Cavalli Gioia , Giovannone Federica , Sogos Carla , Tofani Marco , Galeoto Giovanni
Published: July 2023

Food selectivity is among the most common problems for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The present study aims to validate the Brief Autism Mealtime Behavior Inventory (BAMBI) in an Italian population of children with ASD. BAMBI was translated and cross-culturally adapted following international guidelines, then we investigated internal consistency as measured by Cronbach’s alpha and test–retest reliability, as measured by the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) in a sample of both children with ASD and with typical development (TD). A total of 131 children were recruited in a clinical and community sample. Internal consistency revealed significant data for both TD and ASD children, with a Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.86 and 0.71, respectively. Test–retest reliability showed excellent values for each item of the BAMBI (range 0.83–1.00). Furthermore, we investigated differences in gender and body max index; however, no significant differences were found among groups. In conclusion, the Italian version of the BAMBI showed good internal consistency and test–retest reliability and it can be used for clinical and research purposes.
Molecular Markers of Ovarian Germ Cells of Banana Prawn (Fenneropenaeus merguiensis)
Authors: Sengseng Tatiyavadee , Okutsu Tomoyuki , Songnui Anida , Boonchuay Jaruwan , Sakunrang Chanida , Wonglapsuwan Monwadee
Published: July 2023

The banana prawn (Fenneropenaeus merguiensis) is a valuable prawn in the worldwide market. However, cultivation of this species is limited owing to the difficulty in culture management and limited knowledge of reproduction. Therefore, we studied the gene expression and molecular mechanisms involved in oogenesis for elucidating ovarian germ cell development in banana prawns. The tissue-specific distribution of certain genes identified from previous transcriptome data showed that FmCyclinB, FmNanos, and nuclear autoantigenic sperm protein (FmNASP) were only expressed in gonads. The in situ hybridization (ISH) of these three genes showed different expression patterns throughout oogenesis. FmCyclinB was highly expressed in pre-vitellogenic oocytes. FmNanos was expressed at almost the same level during oogenesis but showed the most expression in late pre-vitellogenic stages. Based on the highest expression of FmCyclinB and FmNanos in mid pre-vitellogenic and late pre-vitellogenic oocytes, respectively, we suggested that FmNanos may suppress FmCyclinB expression before initiation of vitellogenesis. Meanwhile, FmNASP expression was detected only in pre-vitellogenesis. Moreover, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis of FmNASP expression was supported by FmNASP ISH analysis based on high expression of FmNASP in sub-adult ovaries, which contain most of pre-vitellogenic oocytes. In this study, we found three reliable ovarian markers for banana prawns and also found a dynamic change of molecular mechanism during the sub-stage of pre-vitellogenesis. We determined the expression levels of these genes involved in oogenesis. Our findings provide information for further studies on banana prawn reproduction which may assist in their cultivation.
Segmental Rectum Resection for Deep Endometriosis and Excision Similarly Improve Sexual Function and Pain
Authors: Asencio Fernanda de Almeida , Fins Raphael Jose Palhares , Mitie Carolina Kami , Ussia Anastasia , Wattiez Arnauld , Ribeiro Helizabet Salomao , Ribeiro Paulo Ayrosa , Koninckx Philippe Robert
Published: July 2023

Segmental rectum resections for indications other than endometriosis were reported to result in up to 40% sexual dysfunctions. We, therefore, evaluated sexual function after low bowel resection (n = 33) for deep endometriosis in comparison with conservative excision (n = 23). Sexual function was evaluated with the FSFI-19 (Female Sexuality Functioning Index) and EHP 30 (Endometriosis Health Profile). The pain was evaluated with visual analogue scales. Linear excision and bowel resections improved FSFI, EHP 30, and postoperative pain comparably. By univariate analysis, a decreased sexual function was strongly associated with pain both before (p < 0.0001) and after surgery (p = 0.0012), age (p = 0.05), and duration of surgery (p = 0.023). By multivariate analysis (proc logistic), the FSFI after surgery was predicted only by FSFI before or EHP after surgery. No differences were found between low bowel segmental resection and a more conservative excision. In conclusion, improving pain after surgery can explain the improvement in sexual function. A deleterious effect of a bowel resection on sexual function was not observed for endometriosis. Sexual function in women with endometriosis can be evaluated using a simplified questionnaire such as FSFI-6.
Assessment of Habitat Risks Caused by Human Activities and Integrated Approach to Marine Spatial Planning: The Case of Sriracha District—Sichang Island
Authors: Umprasoet Wanchanok , Mu Yongtong , Somrup Supannee , Junchompoo Chalatip , Guo Zhen , Zhang Zhiwei
Published: July 2023

According to the Thailand’s National Strategy (2017-2036) and National Reform Plans, various tools, techniques, or methods are necessary to collect and investigate data for the effective preservation and protection of the country’s natural resources. We aimed to apply various tools and methods for integrated coastal management in Thailand. This study used the InVEST models, including the habitat quality (HQ) and habitat risk assessment (HRA) models, to evaluate the natural habitat quality and cumulative human activity risk in the Sriracha district and Sichang Islands, Thailand. The HQ model revealed the presence of abundant ecological services and high quality natural habitats. We observed habitat degradation in the mooring zone, city area, forests, and coral reefs, with moderate risk to distinct habitats. Our findings identified two potential scenarios. Conservation scenarios exhibited a lower HRA ratio compared to current and development scenarios. Overall, the results showed the effectiveness of the InVEST model in evaluating habitat risk under both present and simulated conditions. Our study highlights the importance of informed management plans and policy-making processes to achieve planned coastal management goals.
Enhanced Image Processing Using Complex Averaging in Diffusion-Weighted Imaging of the Prostate: The Impact on Image Quality and Lesion Detectability
Authors: Werner Sebastian , Zinsser Dominik , Esser Michael , Nickel Dominik , Nikolaou Konstantin , Othman Ahmed E.
Published: July 2023

Diffusion-weighted images of the prostate can suffer from a “hazy” background in low signal-intensity areas. We hypothesize that enhanced image processing (EIP) using complex averaging reduces artifacts, noise, and distortion in conventionally acquired diffusion-weighted images and synthesized high b-value images, thus leading to higher image quality and better detection of potentially malignant lesions. Conventional DWI trace images with a b-value of 1000 s/mm2 (b1000), calculated images with a b-value of 2000 s/mm2 (cb2000), and ADC maps of 3T multiparametric prostate MRIs in 53 patients (age 68.8 ± 10 years) were retrospectively evaluated. Standard images were compared to images using EIP. In the standard images, 36 lesions were detected in the peripheral zone and 20 in the transition zone. In 13 patients, EIP led to the detection of 8 additional lesions and the upgrading of 6 lesions; 6 of these patients were diagnosed with prostate carcinoma Gleason 7 or 8. EIP improved qualitative ratings for overall image quality and lesion detectability. Artifacts were significantly reduced in the cb2000 images. Quantitative measurements for lesion detectability expressed as an SI ratio were significantly improved. EIP using complex averaging led to image quality improvements in acquired and synthesized DWI, potentially resulting in elevated diagnostic accuracy and management changes.
Esophagogastric Junction Outflow Obstruction Is Likely to Be a Local Manifestation of Other Primary Diseases: Analysis of Single-Center 4-Year Follow-Up Data
Authors: Wang Yan , Yu Ting , Zhu Feng , Xu Ying , Bao Yun , Zhang Ling , Lin Lin , Tang Yurong
Published: July 2023

Background: Whether esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is a variant of achalasia cardia (AC) or an esophageal motility state of certain organic or systemic diseases remains controversial. We aimed to investigate the differences between EGJOO and AC in clinical characteristics and outcomes through a 4-year follow-up. Methods: Patients diagnosed with primary EGJOO or AC were included. Based on the presence of concomitant disease, EGJOO patients were divided into a functional and an anatomical EGJOO group; similarly, patients with AC were divided into an AC with organic disease group and a true AC group. Disease characteristics and high-resolution manometry (HRM) parameters were retrospectively compared between the groups, and the development of organic diseases that could affect esophageal motility disorders and responses to treatment were examined during the follow-up. Symptom relief was defined as an Eckardt score of ≤3 after the treatment. Results: The study included 79 AC patients and 70 EGJOO patients. Compared with patients with AC, EGJOO patients were older, had shorter disease duration, a lower Eckardt score, and were more likely to have concurrent adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG) and autoimmune disease (p < 0.05 for all). The severity of dysphagia and Eckardt scores were higher in the anatomical EGJOO group than in the functional EGJOO group. Significant differences were seen in HRM parameters (UES residual pressure, LES basal pressure, and LES residual pressure) between AC and EGJOO patients. However, no significant differences in HRM parameters were observed between the functional EGJOO and anatomical EGJOO groups. Sixty-seven (95.71%) patients with EGJOO and sixty-nine (87.34%) patients with AC experienced symptom relief (p = 0.071). Among patients achieving symptom relief, a relatively large proportion of patients with EGJOO had symptom relief after medications (37/67, 55.22%), the resolution of potential reasons (7/67, 10.45%), and spontaneous relief (15/67, 22.39%), while more patients with AC had symptom relief after POEM (66/69, 95.65%). Among EGJOO patients achieving symptom relief, more patients (7/20, 35%) with anatomical EGJOO had symptom relief after the resolution of potential reasons for EGJOO, while more patients (32/47, 68.09%) with functional EGJOO had symptom relief with medications. Conclusions: Concurrent AEG and autoimmune diseases are more likely in EGJOO than in AC. A considerable part of EGJOO may be the early manifestation of an organic disease. Anatomical EGJOO patients experience symptom improvement with the resolution of primary diseases, while most functional EGJOO patients experience symptom relief with pharmacotherapy alone or even without any treatment.