bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Morphological Transformation of the Thorax during the Eclosion of Drosophila melanogaster (Diptera: Drosophilidae)
Authors: Liu Si-Pei , Yin Hao-Dong , Li Wen-Jie , Qin Zhuang-Hui , Yang Yi , Huang Zheng-Zhong , Zong Le , Liu Xiao-Kun , Du Zhong , Fan Wei-Li , Zhang Ya-Qiong , Zhang Dan , Zhang Yong E. , Liu Xing-Yue , Yang Ding , Ge Si-Qin
Published: November 2023

The model organism Drosophila melanogaster, as a species of Holometabola, undergoes a series of transformations during metamorphosis. To deeply understand its development, it is crucial to study its anatomy during the key developmental stages. We describe the anatomical systems of the thorax, including the endoskeleton, musculature, nervous ganglion, and digestive system, from the late pupal stage to the adult stage, based on micro-CT and 3D visualizations. The development of the endoskeleton causes original and insertional changes in muscles. Several muscles change their shape during development in a non-uniform manner with respect to both absolute and relative size; some become longer and broader, while others shorten and become narrower. Muscular shape may vary during development. The number of muscular bundles also increases or decreases. Growing muscles are probably anchored by the tissues in the stroma. Some muscles and tendons are absent in the adult stage, possibly due to the hardened sclerites. Nearly all flight muscles are present by the third day of the pupal stage, which may be due to the presence of more myofibers with enough mitochondria to support flight power. There are sexual differences in the same developmental period. In contrast to the endodermal digestive system, the functions of most thoracic muscles change in the development from the larva to the adult in order to support more complex locomotion under the control of a more structured ventral nerve cord based on the serial homology proposed herein.
Insights into the Diversity and Population Structure of Predominant Typhlocybinae Species Existing in Vineyards in Greece
Authors: Evangelou Vasiliki , Lytra Ioanna , Krokida Afroditi , Antonatos Spyridon , Georgopoulou Iro , Milonas Panagiotis , Papachristos Dimitrios P.
Published: November 2023

Insects of the subfamily Typhlocybinae (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) are pests of economically important agricultural and horticultural crops. They damage the plants directly or indirectly by transmitting plant pathogens, resulting in significant yield loss. Several leafhoppers of this subfamily use vines as hosts. Accurate and rapid identification is the key to their successful management. The aim of this study is to determine the Typhlocybinae species that exist in vineyards all over Greece and investigate the relationship between them. For this purpose, yellow sticky traps were placed, morphological and molecular data were collected, and phylogenetic models were analyzed. The mitochondrial marker Cytochrome Oxidase Subunit I (mtCOI) was applied for the DNA and phylogenetic analysis. The combination of morphological and molecular data resulted in identifying the existence of six different species all over Greece: Arboridia adanae, Asymmetrasca decedens, Hebata decipiens, Hebata vitis, Jacobiasca lybica and Zygina rhamni. Forty-eight different haplotypes were found to exist in the different regions of the country.
The Entomopathogenic Fungus Conidiobolus coronatus Has Similar Effects on the Cuticular Free Fatty Acid Profile of Sensitive and Resistant Insects
Authors: Boguś Mieczysława Irena , Kazek Michalina , Drozdowski Mikołaj , Kaczmarek Agata , Wrońska Anna Katarzyna
Published: November 2023

The mechanisms underlying the recognition of a susceptible host by a fungus and the role of cuticular compounds (CCs) in this process remain unclear; however, accumulated data suggest that this is influenced to a great degree by cuticular lipids. Two insect species differing in their sensitivity to fungal infection, viz. the highly sensitive Galleria mellonella Linnaeus (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and the resistant Calliphora vicina Robineau-Desvoidy (Diptera: Calliphoridae), exhibited significant qualitative and quantitative changes in cuticular free fatty acid (FFA) profiles after exposure to Conidiobolus coronatus (Constantin) Batko (Entomopthorales). Despite being systematically distant, leading different lifestyles in different habitats, both insect species demonstrated similar changes in the same FFAs following exposure to the fungus (C12:0, C13:0, C14:0, C15:0, C16:1, C16:0, C18:1, C18:0), suggesting that these are involved in a contact-induced defense response. As it was not possible to distinguish the share of FFAs present in the conidia that were attached to the cuticle from the FFAs of the cuticle itself in the total number of extracted FFAs, further research is necessary.
Novel Insights into the circRNA-Modulated Developmental Mechanism of Western Honey Bee Larval Guts
Authors: Zhang Yiqiong , Fan Xiaoxue , Zang He , Liu Xiaoyu , Feng Peilin , Ye Daoyou , Zhu Leran , Wu Ying , Jiang Haibin , Chen Dafu , Guo Rui
Published: November 2023

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of novel non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that play essential roles in the development and growth of vertebrates through multiple manners. However, the mechanism by which circRNAs modulate the honey bee gut development is currently poorly understood. Utilizing the transcriptome data we obtained earlier, the highly expressed circRNAs in the Apis mellifera worker 4-, 5-, and 6-day-old larval guts were analyzed, which was followed by an in-depth investigation of the expression pattern of circRNAs during the process of larval guts development and the potential regulatory roles of differentially expressed circRNAs (DEcircRNAs). In total, 1728 expressed circRNAs were detected in the A. mellifera larval guts. Among the most highly expressed 10 circRNAs, seven (novel_circ_000069, novel_circ_000027, novel_circ_000438, etc.) were shared by the 4-, 5-, and 6-day-old larval guts. In addition, 21 (46) up-regulated and 22 (27) down-regulated circRNAs were, respectively, screened in the Am4 vs. Am5 (Am5 vs. Am6) comparison groups. Additionally, nine DEcircRNAs, such as novel_circ_000340, novel_circ_000758 and novel_circ_001116, were shared by these two comparison groups. These DEcircRNAs were predicted to be transcribed from 14 and 29 parental genes; these were respectively annotated to 15 and 22 GO terms such as biological regulation and catalytic activity as well as 16 and 21 KEGG pathways such as dorsoventral axis formation and apoptosis. Moreover, a complicated competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was observed; novel_circ_000838 in the Am4 vs. Am5 comparison group potentially targeted ame-miR-6000a-3p, further targeting 518 mRNAs engaged in several developmental signaling pathways (e.g., TGF-beta, hedgehog, and wnt signaling pathway) and immune pathways (e.g., phagosome, lysosome, and MAPK signaling pathway). The results demonstrated that the novel_circ_000838-ame-miR-6000a-3p axis may plays a critical regulatory part in the larval gut development and immunity. Furthermore, back-splicing sites of six randomly selected DEcircRNAs were amplified and verified by PCR; an RT-qPCR assay of these six DEcircRNAs confirmed the reliability of the used high-throughput sequencing data. Our findings provide a novel insight into the honey bee gut development and pave a way for illustration of the circRNA-modulated developmental mechanisms underlying the A. mellifera worker larval guts.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation and Conduction Disturbances: Focus on Clinical Implications
Authors: Halapas Antonios , Koliastasis Leonidas , Doundoulakis Ioannis , Antoniou Christos-Konstantinos , Stefanadis Christodoulos , Tsiachris Dimitrios
Published: November 2023

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an established alternative to surgery in patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis and has expanded its indications to even low-surgical-risk patients. Conduction abnormalities (CA) and permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantations remain a relatively common finding post TAVI due to the close proximity of the conduction system to the aortic root. New onset left bundle branch block (LBBB) and high-grade atrioventricular block are the most commonly reported CA post TAVI. The overall rate of PPM implantation post TAVI varies and is related to pre- and intra-procedural factors. Therefore, when screening patients for TAVI, Heart Teams should take under consideration the various anatomical, pathophysiological and procedural conditions that predispose to CA and PPM requirement after the procedure. This is particularly important as TAVI is being offered to younger patients with longer life-expectancy. Herein, we highlight the incidence, predictors, impact and management of CA in patients undergoing TAVI.
The Predictors and Outcomes of Functional Mitral Stenosis following Surgical Mitral Valve Repair: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Hu Yu-Ning , Lee Wen-Huang , Tsai Meng-Ta , Wang Yi-Chen , Shih Chao-Jung , Huang Yu-Ching , Roan Jun-Neng
Published: November 2023

To optimize mitral valve repair outcomes, it is crucial to comprehend the predictors of functional mitral valve stenosis (FMS), to enhance preoperative assessments, and to adapt intraoperative treatment strategies. This study aimed to identify FMS risk factors, contributing valuable insights for refining surgical techniques. Among 228 selected patients, 215 underwent postoperative echocardiography follow-ups, and 36 met the FMS criteria based on a mean trans-mitral pressure gradient of >5 mmHg. Patients with FMS exhibited higher pulmonary systolic arterial pressure and increased late mortality during the follow-up. Univariable logistic regression analysis identified several risk factors for FMS, including end-stage renal disease, anterior leaflet lesion, concomitant aortic valve replacement, smaller ring size, ring type, and neochordae implantation. Conversely, resection alone and resection combined with neochordae implantation had protective effects against FMS. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that smaller ring sizes and patch repair independently predicted FMS. When focusing on degenerative mitral regurgitation, the neochordae implantation without resection in leaflet repair, emerged as an independent predictor of FMS. Surgeons should weigh the substantial impact of surgical procedures on postoperative trans-mitral pressure gradients, emphasizing preoperative evaluation and techniques such as precise ring size assessment and effective leaflet management.
Tenofovir-Induced Fanconi Syndrome Presenting with Life-Threatening Hypokalemia: Review of the Literature and Recommendations for Early Detection
Authors: Liatsou Efstathia , Tatouli Ioanna , Mpozikas Andreas , Pavlou Maria-Markella , Gakiopoulou Hariklia , Ntanasis-Stathopoulos Ioannis , Gavriatopoulou Maria , Kontogiannis Sofoklis , Dimopoulos Meletios Athanasios
Published: November 2023

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor that has been widely used for the treatment of patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. Despite the excellent safety records of this regimen, a few cases of acute renal failure and Fanconi syndrome have been reported among HIV patients exposed to TDF. However, in the HBV monoinfection scenario, only five cases of TDF-associated Fanconi syndrome have been reported thus far, two of them providing a confirmatory kidney biopsy. Here, we describe the case of a 68-year-old woman with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) who developed TDF-induced Fanconi syndrome that reverted after TDF withdrawal from tenofovir alafenamide. Though the overall risk of TDF-associated severe renal toxicity in HBV patients appears to be negligible, both glomerular and tubular functions should be monitored in patients exposed to TDF.
Nutrition and Mental Well-Being: Exploring Connections and Holistic Approaches
Authors: Gheonea Theodora Claudia , Oancea Carmen-Nicoleta , Mititelu Magdalena , Lupu Elena Carmen , Ioniță-Mîndrican Corina-Bianca , Rogoveanu Ion
Published: November 2023

Quality of life, well-being, and psycho-emotional balance are closely related to the quality of the diet, the level of physical activity, the quality of rest, but also the absence of the consumption of narcotic substances and tobacco, or alcohol abuse. Based on the distribution of a questionnaire that included 30 questions, we aimed to statistically evaluate several factors that influence mental health and vices. It recorded a total of 1719 valid responses, which came from 78.3% female respondents and 21.7% male respondents. After processing the anthropometric data, it was observed that the majority of respondents are of normal weight (63.87%) and come from women in particular (36.13%). Based on the answers recorded, although over 60% of the respondents participating in the study are up to 40 years old, there is an increased tendency towards sedentarism (over 58% of the respondents declaring that they do sports very rarely or not at all), a low tendency regarding optimal consumption of vegetables and fruits, many respondents do not hydrate properly, which is why approximately 60% of respondents feel frequently tired, and over 32% are frequently nervous. The increased level of stress among the respondents and emotional eating are also generated by inadequate rest, reduced physical activity, and a diet that does not help the efficient detoxification of the body.
Pediatric Bone Marrow Failure: A Broad Landscape in Need of Personalized Management
Authors: Vissers Lotte T. W. , van der Burg Mirjam , Lankester Arjan C. , Smiers Frans J. W. , Bartels Marije , Mohseny Alexander B.
Published: November 2023

Irreversible severe bone marrow failure (BMF) is a life-threatening condition in pediatric patients. Most important causes are inherited bone marrow failure syndromes (IBMFSs) and (pre)malignant diseases, such as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and (idiopathic) aplastic anemia (AA). Timely treatment is essential to prevent infections and bleeding complications and increase overall survival (OS). Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) provides a cure for most types of BMF but cannot restore non-hematological defects. When using a matched sibling donor (MSD) or a matched unrelated donor (MUD), the OS after HSCT ranges between 60 and 90%. Due to the introduction of post-transplantation cyclophosphamide (PT-Cy) to prevent graft versus host disease (GVHD), alternative donor HSCT can reach similar survival rates. Although HSCT can restore ineffective hematopoiesis, it is not always used as a first-line therapy due to the severe risks associated with HSCT. Therefore, depending on the underlying cause, other treatment options might be preferred. Finally, for IBMFSs with an identified genetic etiology, gene therapy might provide a novel treatment strategy as it could bypass certain limitations of HSCT. However, gene therapy for most IBMFSs is still in its infancy. This review summarizes current clinical practices for pediatric BMF, including HSCT as well as other disease-specific treatment options.
Feature-Based Place Recognition Using Forward-Looking Sonar
Authors: Gaspar Ana Rita , Matos Aníbal
Published: November 2023

Some structures in the harbour environment need to be inspected regularly. However, these scenarios present a major challenge for the accurate estimation of a vehicle’s position and subsequent recognition of similar images. In these scenarios, visibility can be poor, making place recognition a difficult task as the visual appearance of a local feature can be compromised. Under these operating conditions, imaging sonars are a promising solution. The quality of the captured images is affected by some factors but they do not suffer from haze, which is an advantage. Therefore, a purely acoustic approach for unsupervised recognition of similar images based on forward-looking sonar (FLS) data is proposed to solve the perception problems in harbour facilities. To simplify the variation of environment parameters and sensor configurations, and given the need for online data for these applications, a harbour scenario was recreated using the Stonefish simulator. Therefore, experiments were conducted with preconfigured user trajectories to simulate inspections in the vicinity of structures. The place recognition approach performs better than the results obtained from optical images. The proposed method provides a good compromise in terms of distinctiveness, achieving 87.5% recall considering appropriate constraints and assumptions for this task given its impact on navigation success. That is, it is based on a similarity threshold of 0.3 and 12 consistent features to consider only effective loops. The behaviour of FLS is the same regardless of the environment conditions and thus this work opens new horizons for the use of these sensors as a great aid for underwater perception, namely, to avoid degradation of navigation performance in muddy conditions.
A Computational Geospatial Approach to Assessing Land-Use Compatibility in Urban Planning
Authors: Mansourihanis Omid , Maghsoodi Tilaki Mohammad Javad , Yousefian Samira , Zaroujtaghi Ayda
Published: November 2023

Amidst rapid urbanization, sustainable development requires moving beyond subjective land-use planning techniques toward innovative computational geospatial models. This paper introduces a GIS-based quantitative framework to enable objective, rigorous land-use compatibility analysis. Uniquely, the model evaluates radial impacts and expert-defined criteria across multiple scales, overcoming the limitations of qualitative approaches. Cell-by-cell computation identifies emerging spatial conflicts with enhanced realism. A case study in Qaemshahr, Iran, demonstrated the model’s proficiency in revealing incompatibilities and hotspots, surpassing conventional methodologies. Quantitative analysis provided accurate, transparent insights for evidence-based planning and consistency in evaluation. Ongoing improvements through 3D, real-time data integration and machine learning will further the objectivity. While extensive testing across diverse urban contexts is still needed, this pioneering computational technique marks a transition from subjective to objective methodologies. Situated at the intersection of geographic information science and urban planning, this study serves as a launchpad for advancing robust geospatial models to shape more equitable, resilient urban futures amidst complex sustainability challenges. The development of rigorous computational techniques remains fundamental, and the present innovative model can be used to provide objective, scientifically grounded compatibility analyses to guide land-use planning.
Anterior Scleral Thickness Profile in Keratoconus
Authors: Burguera-Giménez Neus , Díez-Ajenjo María Amparo , Burguera Noemí , Peris-Martínez Cristina
Published: November 2023

Purpose: Considering that peripheral corneal thinning occurs in keratoconus (KC), the anterior scleral thickness (AST) profile was measured to compare thickness variations in healthy and KC eyes across several meridians. Methods: This cross-sectional case–control study comprised 111 eyes of 111 patients: 61 KC eyes and 50 age- and axial-length-matched healthy eyes. The AST was explored at three scleral eccentricities (1, 2, and 3 mm from the scleral spur) across four scleral zones (nasal, temporal, superior, and inferior) by using swept-source optical coherence tomography. The AST variations among eccentricities and scleral regions within and between groups were investigated. Results: The AST significantly varied with scleral eccentricity in healthy eyes over the temporal meridian (p = 0.009), whereas in KC eyes, this variation was observed over the nasal (p = 0.001), temporal (p = 0.029) and inferior (p = 0.006) meridians. The thinnest point in both groups was 2 mm posterior to the scleral spur (p < 0.001). The sclera was thickest over the inferior region (control 581 ± 52 μm, KC 577 ± 67 μm) and thinnest over the superior region (control 448 ± 48 μm, KC 468 ± 58 μm) in both populations (p < 0.001 for all eccentricities). The AST profiles were not significantly different between groups (p > 0.05). The inferior–superior thickness asymmetry was statistically different 2 mm posterior to the scleral spur between groups (p = 0.009), specifically with subclinical KC (p = 0.03). There is a trend where the asymmetry increases, although not significantly, with the KC degree (p > 0.05). Conclusions: KC eyes presented significant thickness variations among eccentricities over the paracentral sclera. Although AST profiles did not differ between groups, the inferior–superior asymmetry differences demonstrated scleral changes over the vertical meridian in KC that need further investigation.
Advances in Aquaculture Hatchery Techniques of Sea Urchin Sphaerechinus granularis (Lamarck, 1816) (Echinoidea: Toxopneustidae): Broodstock Conditioning and Spawning Induction
Authors: Luís Ricardo , José Ricardo , Castro João , Andrade Carlos
Published: November 2023

In response to the growing demand for sea urchin gonads (roe or uni) in Asian and European markets and the concerns regarding the overexploitation of wild populations, this preliminary study addresses the need for cost-effective protocols in echinoculture. The primary focus of this research was to evaluate the gonadosomatic index (GI) in captive-conditioned Sphaerechinus granularis over a five-month period and compare it with that of their wild-caught conspecifics. Additionally, two different spawning induction methods were assessed: potassium chloride (KCl) injection and agitation. Results indicate that captive-conditioned sea urchins exhibit significantly higher GI values when compared to their wild-caught counterparts. Furthermore, it was observed that the agitation method is equally effective as the KCl injection in triggering a positive response, i.e., gamete ejection, while maintaining lower mortality rates among the subjected S. granularis. In conclusion, this preliminary study underscores the pivotal role of broodstock conditioning in supporting the sustainability of sea urchin aquaculture. Moreover, the spawning induction method through agitation emerges as a viable alternative to the traditional intracelomic KCl injection, offering comparable efficacy without compromising the survival of the broodstock. These findings have significant implications for the development of sustainable sea urchin farming practices.
The Effect of Plasma Treatment on the Mechanical and Biological Properties of Polyurethane Artificial Blood Vessel
Authors: Ding Cheng , Ma Jing , Teng Yingxue , Chen Shanshan
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the incidence of cardiovascular disease has increased annually, and the demand for artificial blood vessels has been increasing. Due to the formation of thrombosis and stenosis after implantation, the application of many materials in the human body has been inhibited. Therefore, the choice of surface modification process is very important. In this paper, small-diameter polyurethane artificial blood vessels were prepared through electrospinning, and their surfaces were treated with plasma to improve their biological properties. The samples before and after plasma treatment were characterized by SEM, contact angle, XPS, and tensile testing; meanwhile, the cell compatibility and blood compatibility were evaluated. The results show that there are no significant changes to the fiber morphology or diameter distribution on the surface of the sample before and after plasma treatment. Plasma treatment can increase the proportion of oxygen-containing functional groups on the surface of the sample and improve its wettability, thereby increasing the infiltration ability of cells and promoting cell proliferation. Plasma treatment can reduce the risk of hemolysis, and does not cause platelet adhesion. Due to the etching effect of plasma, the mechanical properties of the samples decreased with the extension of plasma treatment time, which should be used as a basis to balance the mechanical property and biological property of artificial blood vessels. But on the whole, plasma treatment has positive significance for improving the comprehensive performance of samples.
Investigation of the Dislocation Density of NiCr Coatings Prepared Using PVD–LMM Technology
Authors: Song Guoqing , Wei Wentian , Shuai Bincai , Liu Botao , Chen Yong
Published: November 2023

Micron-sized coatings prepared using physical vapor deposition (PVD) technology can peel off in extreme environments because of their low adhesion. Laser micro-melting (LMM) technology can improve the properties of the fabricated integrated material due to its metallurgical combinations. However, the microstructural changes induced by the high-energy laser beam during the LMM process have not been investigated. In this study, we used the PVD–LMM technique to prepare NiCr coatings with a controlled thickness. The microstructural changes in the NiCr alloy coatings during melting and cooling crystallization were analyzed using molecular dynamics simulations. The simulation results demonstrated that the transition range of the atoms in the LMM process fluctuated synchronously with the temperature, and the hexagonal close-packed (HCP) structure increased. After the cooling crystallization, the perfect dislocations of the face-centered cubic (FCC) structure decreased significantly. The dislocation lines were mainly 1/6 <112> imperfect dislocations, and the dislocation density increased by 107.7%. The dislocations in the twinning region were affected by the twin boundaries and slip surfaces. They were plugged in their vicinity, resulting in a considerably higher dislocation density than in the other regions, and the material hardness increased significantly. This new technique may be important for the technological improvement of protective coatings on Zr alloy surfaces.
New Insights into the Dissolution Kinetics of Alite Powder and the Effects of Organic Toughening Materials
Authors: Tang Jinhui , Tu Guangye , Tao Zongshuo , Yan Yu
Published: November 2023

Alite dissolution plays a crucial role in cement hydration. However, quantitative investigations into alite powder dissolution are limited, especially regarding the influence of chemical admixtures. This study investigates the impact of particle size, temperature, saturation level, and mixing speed on alite powder dissolution rate, considering the real-time evolution of specific surface area during the alite powder dissolution process. Furthermore, the study delves into the influence of two organic toughening agents, chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) and anionic/non-ionic polyester-based polyurethane (PU), on the kinetics of alite powder dissolution. The results demonstrate a specific-surface-area change formula during alite powder dissolution: SS0=0.348e1−m/m0/0.085+0.651. Notably, the temperature and saturation level significantly affect dissolution rates, whereas the effect of particle size is more complicated. COS shows dosage-dependent effects on alite dissolution, acting through both its acidic nature and surface coverage. On the other hand, PU inhibits alite dissolution by blocking the active sites of alite through electrostatic adsorption, which is particularly evident at high temperatures.
Phenolic Compounds from By-Products for Functional Textiles
Authors: Afonso Tiago Barros , Bonifácio-Lopes Teresa , Costa Eduardo Manuel , Pintado Manuela Estevez
Published: November 2023

Textile dyeing is known to have major environmental concerns, especially with the high use of toxic chemicals. The use of alternatives such as natural dyes rich in phenolic compounds has become extremely appealing in order to move towards a more sustainable circular economy. Phenolic dyes have the potential to functionalize textile fabrics with properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, and UV protection. Wastes/residues from the agri-food industries stand out as highly attractive sources of these compounds, with several by-products showing promising results in textile dyeing through the implementation of more sustainable and eco-friendly processes. This review presents an up-to-date exploration of the sources of phenolic compounds used in the textile industry over the past two decades, with a primary focus on the functional properties they provide to different fabrics. The research highlights a surge in interest in this theme since 2017, accentuating a noticeable upward trend. Throughout this review, emphasis is given to by-products from the agri-food industry as the sources of these compounds. The reviewed papers lay the foundation for future research, paving the way for exploring the potential of raw materials and by-products in the creation of functional and smart textiles.
Anomaly Detection Using Puzzle-Based Data Augmentation to Overcome Data Imbalances and Deficiencies
Authors: Kim Eunkyeong , Jung Seunghwan , Kim Minseok , Kim Jinyong , Kim Baekcheon , Kim Jonggeun , Kim Sungshin
Published: November 2023

Machine tools are used in a wide range of applications, and they can manufacture workpieces flexibly. Furthermore, they require maintenance; the overall costs include maintenance costs, which constitute a significant portion, and the costs involved in ensuring product quality. Therefore, anomaly detection in tool conditions is required, because these tools are essential industrial elements. However, the data related to tool conditions present some challenges: data imbalances and deficiencies. Data imbalances and deficiencies can affect the performance of anomaly detection models. A model trained using data with imbalances and deficiencies may miscalculate that abnormal data are normal data, leasing to errors. To overcome these problems, the proposed method has been designed using the wavelet transform, color space conversion, color extraction, puzzle-based data augmentation, and double transfer learning. The proposed method generated image data from time-series data, effectively extracted features, and generated new image data using puzzle-based data augmentation. The color information was processed to highlight features, and the proposed puzzle-based data augmentation was applied during processing to increase the amount of data to improve the performance of the anomaly detection model. The experimental results showed that the proposed method can classify normal and abnormal data with greater accuracy. In particular, the accuracy of abnormal data classification increased from 25.00% to 91.67%. This demonstrates that the proposed method is effective and can overcome data imbalances and deficiencies.
4D Printing: A Methodical Approach to Product Development Using Smart Materials
Authors: Junk Stefan , Einloth Henning , Velten Dirk
Published: November 2023

In 4D printing, an additively manufactured component is given the ability to change its shape or function in an intended and useful manner over time. The technology of 4D printing is still in an early stage of development. Nevertheless, interesting research and initial applications exist in the literature. In this work, a novel methodical approach is presented that helps transfer existing 4D printing research results and knowledge into solving application tasks systematically. Moreover, two different smart materials are analyzed, used, and combined following the presented methodical approach to solving the given task in the form of recovering an object from a poorly accessible space. This is implemented by self-positioning, grabbing, and extracting the target object. The first smart material used to realize these tasks is a shape-memory polymer, while the second is a polymer-based magnetic composite. In addition to the presentation and detailed implementation of the methodical approach, the potentials and behavior of the two smart materials are further examined and narrowed down as a result of the investigation. The results show that the developed methodical approach contributes to moving 4D printing closer toward a viable alternative to existing technologies due to its problem-oriented nature.
Applications to Solving Variational Inequality Problems via MR-Kannan Type Interpolative Contractions
Authors: Anjum Rizwan , Fulga Andreea , Akram Muhammad Waqar
Published: November 2023

The aim of this paper is manifold. We first define the new class of operators called MR-Kannan interpolative type contractions, which includes the Kannan, enriched Kannan, interpolative Kannan type, and enriched interpolative Kannan type operators. Secondly, we prove the existence of a unique fixed point for this class of operators. Thirdly, we study Ulam-Hyers stability, well-posedness, and periodic point properties. Finally, an application of the main results to the variational inequality problem is given.
Analysis of Fluctuating Antenna Beamwidth in UAV-Assisted Cellular Networks
Authors: Arif Mohammad , Kim Wooseong
Published: November 2023

This paper investigates a cellular network assisted by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the presence of a fluctuating 3-dimensional (3D) antenna beamwidth. The primary objective is to perform an analysis of typical user equipment (T-UE) performance with a specific focus on coverage probability and spectral efficiency (SE) in the presence of fluctuations of 3D antenna beamwidth. Within this analytical framework, the macro base stations (MBSs) are meticulously characterized through the application of an independent 2D homogeneous Poisson point process (PPP), while the low-altitude platforms (LAPs) are described using an independent 3D PPP. The study entails the derivation of association probabilities, determining the likelihood of the T-UE associating with MBSs, line-of-sight LAPs, and non-line-of-sight LAPs. Through rigorous mathematical analysis, the paper formulates precise analytical expressions that encapsulate the association and coverage probabilities, taking into account the inherent variability in the UAV antenna beamwidth. This research focuses on a thorough performance evaluation of the T-UE across diverse network configurations, encompassing LAP density, the transmission power of LAPs, and the critical signal-to-interference ratio threshold. The outcomes of this study distinctly underscore the substantial disruptive impact resulting from fluctuating beamwidth on the performance of the T-UE within the UAV-assisted cellular network. Additionally, this performance is further impacted by larger densities and transmission power of the LAP. Hence, it is imperative to take into account the influence of these fluctuations on network association, coverage, and SE whenever contemplating a UAV-assisted cellular network.
Inferring Complementary and Substitutable Products Based on Knowledge Graph Reasoning
Authors: Fang Yan , Yu Jiayin , Ding Yumei , Lin Xiaohua
Published: November 2023

Complementarity and substitutability between products are essential concepts in retail and marketing. To achieve this, existing approaches take advantage of knowledge graphs to learn more evidence for inference. However, they often omit the knowledge that lies in the unstructured data. In this research, we concentrate on inferring complementary and substitutable products in e-commerce from mass structured and unstructured data. An improved knowledge-graph-based reasoning model has been proposed which cannot only derive related products but also provide interpretable paths to explain the relationship. The methodology employed in our study unfolds through several stages. First, a knowledge graph refining entities and relationships from data was constructed. Second, we developed a two-stage knowledge representation learning method to better represent the structured and unstructured knowledge based on TransE and SBERT. Then, the relationship inferring problem was converted into a path reasoning problem under the Markov decision process environment by learning a dynamic policy network. We also applied a soft pruning strategy and a modified reward function to improve the effectiveness of the policy network training. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method on standard Amazon datasets, and it gives about 5–15% relative improvement over the state-of-the-art models in terms of NDCG@10, Recall@10, Precision @10, and HR@10.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Magnetic and Spin Devices, Volume II
Authors: Sverdlov Viktor , Choi Seung-Bok
Published: November 2023

Although the miniaturization of metal–oxide–semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs)—the main driver behind an outstanding increase in the speed, performance, density, and complexity of modern integrated circuits—is continuing, numerous outstanding technological challenges in complimentary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) device miniaturization are slowly bringing the downscaling to saturation [...]
Are Gastrointestinal Microorganisms Involved in the Onset and Development of Amyloid Neurodegenerative Diseases?
Authors: Muronetz Vladimir I. , Kurochkina Lidia P. , Leisi Evgeniia V. , Kudryavtseva Sofia S.
Published: November 2023

This review discusses a few examples of specific mechanisms mediating the contribution of the GIT microbiota to the development of amyloid neurodegenerative diseases caused by the pathologic transformation of prion protein, or alpha-synuclein. The effect of the bacterial GroE chaperonin system and phage chaperonins (single-ring OBP and double-ring EL) on prion protein transformation has been described. A number of studies have shown that chaperonins stimulate the formation of cytotoxic amyloid forms of prion protein in an ATP-dependent manner. Moreover, it was found that E. coli cell lysates have a similar effect on prion protein, and the efficiency of amyloid transformation correlates with the content of GroE in cells. Data on the influence of some metabolites synthesized by gut microorganisms on the onset of synucleinopathies, such as Parkinson’s disease, is provided. In particular, the induction of amyloid transformation of alpha-synuclein from intestinal epithelial cells with subsequent prion-like formation of its pathologic forms in nervous tissues featuring microbiota metabolites is described. Possible mechanisms of microbiota influence on the occurrence and development of amyloid neurodegenerative diseases are considered.
Tannin-Tolerant Saccharomyces cerevisiae Isolated from Traditional Fermented Tea (Miang) of Northern Thailand and Its Feasible Applications
Authors: Unban Kridsada , Muangkajang Natchanon , Kodchasee Pratthana , Kanpiengjai Apinun , Shetty Kalidas , Khanongnuch Chartchai
Published: November 2023

This study evaluated the ability of a yeast strain isolated from traditional fermented tea leaves (Camellia sinensis var. assamica), Miang from northern Thailand, to grow and produce ethanol in the presence of tannin. Among 43 Miang samples, 25 yeast isolates displayed gas-forming character in the presence of 1% (w/v) tannin, but only ML1-1 and ML1-2 isolates were confirmed as ethanol-producing yeast capable of tannin tolerance. These isolates were further identified to be Pichia occidentalis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, respectively, based on D1/D2 domain sequence analysis. S. cerevisiae ML1-2 was selected for further studies and exhibited growth at 20–35 °C, pH 4–7, and tolerance to high sugar concentrations of up to 350 g/L. Supplementation of 1% (w/v) tannin had no effect on sugar utilization and ethanol production, while delayed sugar consumption and ethanol production were observed in the reference strain S. cerevisiae TISTR 5088. However, 5 and 10% (w/v) tannin showed inhibitory effects on the growth and ethanol production of the selected yeast isolates. During the fermentation under high tannin conditions derived by mixing Java plum fruit with ground seed, S. cerevisiae ML1-2 showed significant advantages in growth and enhanced the content of ethanol, polyphenols, tannin, and flavonoids compared to S. cerevisiae TISTR 5088. This indicated its potential for high-tannin substrate-based bioconversion for the production of either fuel ethanol or functional alcoholic beverages.
Contribution of the Rapid LAMP-Based Diagnostic Test (RLDT) to the Evaluation of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) and Shigella in Childhood Diarrhea in the Peri-Urban Area of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Authors: Héma Alimatou , Sermé Samuel S. , Sawadogo Jean , Diarra Amidou , Barry Aissata , Ouédraogo Amidou Z. , Nébié Issa , Tiono Alfred B. , Houard Sophie , Chakraborty Subhra , Ouédraogo Alphonse , Sirima Sodiomon B.
Published: November 2023

The estimates of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) and Shigella burden in developing countries are limited by the lack of rapid, accessible, and sensitive diagnostics and surveillance tools. We used a “Rapid LAMP based Diagnostic Test (RLDT)” to detect ETEC and Shigella in diarrheal and non-diarrheal stool samples from a 12-month longitudinal cohort of children under five years of age in a peri-urban area of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso (West Africa). To allow comparison with the RLDT-Shigella results, conventional culture methods were used to identify Shigella strains in the stool samples. As conventional culture alone cannot detect ETEC cases, a subset of E. coli-like colonies was tested using conventional PCR to detect ETEC toxins genes. Of the 165 stool samples analyzed for ETEC, 24.9% were positive when using RLDT against 4.2% when using culture followed by PCR. ETEC toxin distribution when using RLDT was STp 17.6% (29/165), LT 11.5% (19/165), and STh 8.5% (14/165). Of the 263 specimens tested for Shigella, 44.8% were positive when using RLDT against 23.2% when using culture. The sensitivity and specificity of the RLDT compared to culture (followed by PCR for ETEC) were 93.44% and 69.8% for Shigella and 83.7% and 77.9% for ETEC, respectively. This study indicates that both Shigella and ETEC are substantially underdiagnosed when using conventional culture and highlights the potential contribution of the new RLDT method to improve enteric disease burden estimation and to guide future efforts to prevent and control bacterial enteric infection and disease.
Molecular Characterization of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Bakery and Pastry Starter Ferments
Authors: Kleib Jihad , Rizk Ziad , Tannouri Abdo , Abou-Khalil Rony
Published: November 2023

Bread is the oldest and most essential food consumed by humans, with its consumption exceeding nutritional needs and becoming part of cultural habits. Fermentation is an important step in the bread-making process, giving it its rheological, organoleptic, aromatic, and nutritional properties. Lactic acid bacteria and yeasts are both responsible for the fermentation step and part of the natural flour microbiota. In this study, we aimed to characterize LAB in three types of flour, namely, wheat, oat, and rice flour, using conventional phenotypic and biochemical assays and to carry out molecular-biology-based characterization via studying the rrn Operon using RFLP of the ITS region and via PCR using species-specific primers. Additionally, the effect of LAB diversity among the three types of flour and their influence on dough characteristics were assessed. Also, we evaluated the antagonistic effects of LAB on two bacterial (E. coli and S. aureus) and two fungal (Botrytis and Fusarium) pathogens. This study showed that LAB are not the predominant species in rice flour, while they were predominant in wheat and oat flour. Additionally, Lactobacillus sanfranciscencis was found to be the predominant species in wheat flour, while its presence in oat flour was minor. Finally, through their production of soluble substances, LAB exerted antagonistic effects on the four types of pathogenic microorganisms.
Rare Earth Elements in the Shok-Karagay Ore Fields (Syrymbet Ore District, Northern Kazakhstan) and Visualisation of the Deposits Using the Geography Information System
Authors: Togizov Kuanysh , Issayeva Lyudmila , Muratkhanov Daulet , Kurmangazhina Madina , Swęd Maciej , Duczmal-Czernikiewicz Agata
Published: November 2023

Rare earth elements deposited in ion-adsorption clay-type deposits in Northern Kazakhstan were recognised using mineralogical and geochemical methods. The diversity and mineralogical properties of the Shok-Karagay deposit and Syrymbet ore fields under investigation in this study are closely related to the process of the formation of the deposits as well as the deposits’ architecture. A combination of mineralogical research and digital technology (GIS) was used to characterise the deposits. Rare earth elements from the cerium series were found in the following quantities: La (in ppm), 43–200; Ce, 57–206; Sm, 100–300; Eu, 22–100. Yttrium-series elements were found in the following quantities: Y, 31–106; Gd, 100–200; Tb, 100–200; Dy, 0–300; Ho, 0–20; Er, 0–364; Tm, 0.28–0.85; Yb, 2.2–39; Lu, 0–200. The wireframe and block models indicated that the bodies’ forms were 1800 m wide, 3500 m long, and 20–40 m thick. The major REE group minerals in both bodies were monazite and xenotime, whereas the minor minerals included yttrium parisite, silicorabdophanite, thorite, and orangite; moreover, ilmenite and titanomagnetite were found. The 3D models that were constructed indicated that the mineralogy and geochemistry of the ore bodies played a determining role in the deposits’ architecture.
Effect of Na versus Ca Sulfate Salts on the Hydration of Calcium Sulfoaluminate Clinker
Authors: Padilla-Encinas Pilar , Palomo Angel , Fernández-Jiménez Ana
Published: November 2023

This paper examined how the amount (5% or 20%) and type (CaSO4 or Na2SO4) of sulphate salt affect the hydration of calcium sulphoaluminate clinker (KCSA). The mechanical behavior of the pastes was determined at 1, 3, 28, and 90 days, the heat flow and total heat were measured with isothermal conduction calorimetry, and the reaction products were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential thermal analysis/thermogravimetry (DTA/TG) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results obtained indicated that both the amount of sulphate salt (5% or 20%) and its type (CaSO4 or Na2SO4) affect the hydration kinetics, type of reaction products formed, and development of mechanical strength. The incorporation of CaSO4 has a positive effect on the development of the mechanical strength of KCSA. However, Na2SO4 can also produce adverse side effects at older ages. The presence of Na2SO4 increases pH values, which partly destabilizes the ettringite formed, thereby favoring carbonation and thenardite precipitation, which can cause the specimens to crack and break.
Halogen-Dependent Diversity and Weak Interactions in the Heterometallic Ni/Cd Complex Solids: Structural and Theoretical Investigation
Authors: Nesterova Oksana V. , Petrusenko Svitlana R. , Skelton Brian W. , Nesterov Dmytro S.
Published: November 2023

Three novel heterometallic Ni/Cd coordination compounds [Ni(en)3][CdCl4]∙3dmso (1), [Ni(en)2(dmf)2][CdBr4] (2), and [Ni(en)3]2[CdI4](I)2 (3) have been synthesized through the self-assembly process in a one-pot reaction of cadmium oxide, nickel salt (or nickel powder), NH4X (X = Cl, Br, I), and ethylenediamine in non-aqueous solvents dmso (for 1) or dmf (for 2 and 3). Formation of the one- (1) or three-dimensional (2 and 3) hydrogen-bonded frameworks has been observed depending on the nature of the [CdX4]2− counter-anion, as well as on the nature of the solvent. The electronic structures of [Ni(en)3]2+ and [Ni(en)2(dmf)2]2+ cations were studied at the DFT and CASSCF levels, including the ab initio ligand field theory (AILFT) calculations. The non-covalent intermolecular contacts between the cationic nickel and anionic cadmium blocks in the solid state were investigated by the QTAIM analysis. The mechanism of ligand substitution at the nickel center in [Ni(en)2(dmf)2]2+ was theoretically investigated at the ωB97X-D4/ma-def2-TZVP//DLPNO-CCSD(T)/ma-def2-TZVPP level. The results demonstrate that thermodynamic factors are structure-determining ones due to low energy barriers of the rotation of dmf ligands in [Ni(en)2(dmf)2]2+ (below 3 kcal mol−1) and the reversible transformation of [Ni(en)2(dmf)2]2+ into [Ni(en)3]2+ (below 20 kcal mol−1).