bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal Changes in Functional and Structural Neuronal Activities in Auditory System in Non-Severe Blast-Induced Tinnitus
Authors: Shao Ningning , Skotak Maciej , Pendyala Navya , Rodriguez Jose , Ravula Arun Reddy , Pang Kevin , Perumal Venkatesan , Rao Kakulavarapu V. Rama , Chandra Namas
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Epidemiological data indicate that blast exposure is the most common morbidity responsible for mild TBI among Service Members (SMs) during recent military operations. Blast-induced tinnitus is a comorbidity frequently reported by veterans, and despite its wide prevalence, it is also one of the least understood. Tinnitus arising from blast exposure is usually associated with direct structural damage that results in a conductive and sensorineural impairment in the auditory system. Tinnitus is also believed to be initiated by abnormal neuronal activities and temporal changes in neuroplasticity. Clinically, it is observed that tinnitus is frequently accompanied by sleep disruption as well as increased anxiety. In this study, we elucidated some of the mechanistic aspects of sensorineural injury caused by exposure to both shock waves and impulsive noise. The isolated conductive auditory damage hypothesis was minimized by employing an animal model wherein both ears were protected. Materials and Methods: After the exposure, the animals’ hearing circuitry status was evaluated via acoustic startle response (ASR) to distinguish between hearing loss and tinnitus. We also compared the blast-induced tinnitus against the well-established sodium salicylate-induced tinnitus model as the positive control. The state of the sensorineural auditory system was evaluated by auditory brainstem response (ABR), and this test helped examine the neuronal circuits between the cochlea and inferior colliculus. We then further evaluated the role of the excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors and neuronal synapses in the auditory cortex (AC) injury after blast exposure. Results: We observed sustained elevated ABR thresholds in animals exposed to blast shock waves, while only transient ABR threshold shifts were observed in the impulsive noise group solely at the acute time point. These changes were in concert with the increased expression of ribbon synapses, which is suggestive of neuroinflammation and cellular energy metabolic disorder. It was also found that the onset of tinnitus was accompanied by anxiety, depression-like symptoms, and altered sleep patterns. By comparing the effects of shock wave exposure and impulsive noise exposure, we unveiled that the shock wave exerted more significant effects on tinnitus induction and sensorineural impairments when compared to impulsive noise. Conclusions: In this study, we systematically studied the auditory system structural and functional changes after blast injury, providing more significant insights into the pathophysiology of blast-induced tinnitus.
Wear Behavior of Metal Bonded Grinding Tools When Grinding Ti-6Al-4V in an Oxygen-Free Atmosphere
Authors: Denkena Berend , Bergmann Benjamin , Hansen Nils , Heller Christian
Published: September 2023

In the current study, the wear behavior of bronze-bonded grinding tools when grinding the titanium alloy Ti-6Al-4V was explored. In this process, oxidation plays a key role since both the bronze bond and the titanium workpiece chemically react with oxygen. The oxidation effect is intensified further due to increased temperatures during grinding and can cause tribo-oxidation. This wear effect can be reduced or even eliminated by grinding in an extreme high-vacuum (XHV) adequate atmosphere. This atmosphere is nearly oxygen-free and is generated using a silane-doped argon gas that chemically reacts with oxygen. This reaction is able to decrease the oxygen partial pressure (pO2 ≤ 10−12 mbar) down to an XHV-adequate atmosphere. The aim of this paper is to investigate the influence of oxygen in the atmosphere on the application and wear behavior during grinding and to demonstrate the potential of this novel approach. The results presented show that during grinding with cBN, the process forces are significantly influenced by the atmosphere. Depending on the process parameters, a reduction of up to 93% is thus possible. This force reduction correlates with radial tool wear. When grinding under oxygen-free conditions, it can be reduced by up to 64%.
Evaluation of Lacc134 Oxidoreductase of Ganoderma multistipitatum in Detoxification of Dye Wastewater under Different Nutritional Conditions
Authors: Alhomaidi Eman A. , Umar Aisha , Alsharari Salam S. , Alyahya Sami
Published: September 2023

In the present study, we investigated the effects of different carbon sources (glucose, sucrose, and maltose) on laccase production from mycelium of Ganoderma multistipitatum grown on malt extract agar plates. The preliminary screening test was performed on the guaiacol plate, where a maroon brown zone formed after laccase oxidation. A few pure mycelial discs of Ganoderma species were transferred into submerged fermentation nutrient broth. The nutrient medium of submerged fermentation at 20 g of glucose revealed the highest laccase activities (2300 U/L) than other carbon sources. The interesting results also shown by inorganic NaNO3 in the production of maximum laccase (7800 ± 1.1 U/L). The organic nitrogen inducer, namely yeast extract, exhibited 5834 U/L laccase activity and a potential source of laccase secretion. The results concluded that C and N inducers enhanced the laccase production. This production process is eco-friendly and effective in the removal of dye from water. Laccase from the cultural broth was partially purified by SDS-PAGE for molecular weight determination, while Native-PAGE confirmed the laccase band after staining with guaiacol. The Km and Vmax values of Lacc134 were 1.658 mm and 2.452 mM min−1, respectively. The Lacc134 of this study effectively removed the Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR) dye (extensively used in textile industries and wastewater). For dye removal capacity, 2.0 mg, 4.0 mg, 5.0 mg, and 6.0 mg were used, from which 6.0 mg was most effective in removal (85% and 88%) dye concentration in 1st and 2nd h interval treatment, respectively. Total organic carbon (TOC) quantity after dye removal percentage in the first- and second-hour time interval was 62% and 89%, respectively, at 30 g glucose. According to the experimental finding of this study, the breakdown products catalyzed by Lacc134 are less hazardous due to lower molecular weight than the dye itself.
Molecular Evolutionary Analyses of the Spike Protein Gene and Spike Protein in the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Subvariants
Authors: Nagasawa Norika , Kimura Ryusuke , Akagawa Mao , Shirai Tatsuya , Sada Mitsuru , Okayama Kaori , Sato-Fujimoto Yuka , Saito Makoto , Kondo Mayumi , Katayama Kazuhiko , Ryo Akihide , Kuroda Makoto , Kimura Hirokazu
Published: September 2023

To better understand the evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants, we performed molecular evolutionary analyses of the spike (S) protein gene/S protein using advanced bioinformatics technologies. First, time-scaled phylogenetic analysis estimated that a common ancestor of the Wuhan, Alpha, Beta, Delta variants, and Omicron variants/subvariants diverged in May 2020. After that, a common ancestor of the Omicron variant generated various Omicron subvariants over one year. Furthermore, a chimeric virus between the BM.1.1.1 and BJ.1 subvariants, known as XBB, diverged in July 2021, leading to the emergence of the prevalent subvariants XBB.1.5 and XBB.1.16. Next, similarity plot (SimPlot) data estimated that the recombination point (breakpoint) corresponded to nucleotide position 1373. As a result, XBB.1.5 subvariants had the 5′ nucleotide side from the breakpoint as a strain with a BJ.1 sequence and the 3′ nucleotide side as a strain with a BM.1.1.1 sequence. Genome network data showed that Omicron subvariants were genetically linked with the common ancestors of the Wuhan and Delta variants, resulting in many amino acid mutations. Selective pressure analysis estimated that the prevalent subvariants, XBB.1.5 and XBB.1.16, had specific amino acid mutations, such as V445P, G446S, N460K, and F486P, located in the RBD when compared with the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants. Moreover, some representative immunogenicity-associated amino acid mutations, including L452R, F486V, R493Q, and V490S, were also found in these subvariants. These substitutions were involved in the conformational epitopes, implying that these mutations affect immunogenicity and vaccine evasion. Furthermore, these mutations were identified as positive selection sites. These results suggest that the S gene/S protein Omicron subvariants rapidly evolved, and mutations observed in the conformational epitopes may reduce the effectiveness of the current vaccine, including bivalent vaccines such as mRNA vaccines containing the BA.4/BA.5 subvariants.
Giardia duodenalis (Styles, 1902) in Cattle: Isolation of Calves with Diarrhoea and Manure Treatment in the Lagoon Presented as Risk Factors in Latvian Herds
Authors: Mateusa Maira , Selezņova Maija , Terentjeva Margarita , Deksne Gunita
Published: September 2023

Giardia duodenalis is a waterborne zoonotic protozoan that causes gastrointestinal tract inflammation in humans, cattle, and other animals. The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence and potential risk factors for Giardia infection in cattle in Latvia. During 2020–2021, a total of 973 individual faecal samples from cattle aged from 1 day to 12 years old, from 32 cattle herds, were tested for Giardia cyst presence with immunofluorescence staining followed by Giardia assemblage differentiation targeting beta-giardin gene. Using a questionnaire, information was collected to estimate the potential risk factors for G. duodenalis infection in cattle herds. Giardia was found in 8.4% of the examined cattle with a mean intensity of 5756 cysts per gram of faeces. The highest prevalence was observed in the 0 to 3-month-old calves (16.4%). At least one Giardia shedding animal was found in 27 herds with an overall prevalence of 84.4%. Significantly higher prevalence was found for cattle infected with G. duodenalis assemblage E compared to that infected with assemblage A: 88.7% and 11.3%, respectively. Protective factors such as age and rodent control and change of shoes were found to be significant for Giardia infection, while isolating calves for diarrhoea and water bodies (ponds/lakes) in pasture were potential risk factors in Latvian cattle.
First Identification and Molecular Characterization of Trichinella britovi (Nematoda: Trichinellidae) from the Pine Marten (Martes martes Linnaeus, 1758) in Romania
Authors: Marin Ana-Maria , Mederle Ovidiu-Alexandru , Marucci Gianluca , Popovici Dan-Cornel , Mederle Narcisa
Published: September 2023

Trichinella spp. are etiological zoonotic agents spread throughout the world and affect mammals, birds, and reptiles; they evolve via two cycles: domestic and sylvatic. Martes martes is a carnivorous nocturnal mammal from the family Mustelidae. In Romania, this host is widespread in all forests of the country. Martes martes has an extremely voracious appetite, feeding on fruit and also on a variety of small animals, including rodents such as mice and rats. The aim of this study was the identification and molecular characterization of Trichinella larvae isolated from the muscle tissue of Martes martes collected in different counties of Romania. The muscle samples were examined via artificial digestion, and the larvae were identified at the species level via multiplex PCR. The presence of larvae belonging to Trichinella britovi, a species frequently identified in wild carnivores in temperate zones, was observed. Although T. britovi has been already reported in several host species in Romania, this is the first time this species has been observed in a Martes martes specimen. This finding contributes to our knowledge about the host species involved in the maintenance of the Trichinella sylvatic cycle in Romania, and it confirms that this parasite is consistently present in the wild fauna of this country.
Increased Expression of lncRNA AC000120.7 and SENP3-EIF4A1 in Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Induced by SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Pilot Study
Authors: González-Ramírez Javier , Leija-Montoya Ana Gabriela , Serafín-Higuera Nicolás , Guzmán-Martín Carlos A. , Amezcua-Guerra Luis M. , Olvera-Sandoval Carlos , Machado-Contreras Jesús René , Ruiz-Hernández Armando , Hernández-Díazcouder Adrián , Estrada-Guzmán Julia Dolores , Sánchez-Muñoz Fausto
Published: September 2023

COVID-19, a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, poses significant threats to the respiratory system and other vital organs. Long non-coding RNAs have emerged as influential epigenetic regulators and promising biomarkers in respiratory ailments. The objective of this study was to identify candidate lncRNAs in SARS-CoV-2-positive individuals compared to SARS-CoV-2-negative individuals and investigate their potential association with ARDS-CoV-2 (acute respiratory distress syndrome). Employing qRT-PCR, we meticulously examined the expression profiles of a panel comprising 84 inflammation-related lncRNAs in individuals presenting upper respiratory infection symptoms, categorizing them into those testing negative or positive for SARS-CoV-2. Notably, first-phase PSD individuals exhibited significantly elevated levels of AC000120.7 and SENP3-EIF4A1. In addition, we measured the expression of two lncRNAs, AC000120.7 and SENP3-EIF4A1, in patients with ARDS unrelated to SARS-CoV-2 (n = 5) and patients with ARDS induced by SARS-CoV-2 (ARDS-CoV-2, n = 10), and interestingly, expression was also higher among patients with ARDS. Intriguingly, our interaction pathway analysis unveiled potential interactions between lncRNA AC000120.7, various microRNAs, and genes associated with inflammation. This study found higher expression levels of lncRNAs AC000120.7 and SENP3-EIF4A1 in the context of infection-positive COVID-19, particularly within the complex landscape of ARDS.
Pharmacoinformatics and Breed-Based De Novo Hybridization Studies to Develop New Neuraminidase Inhibitors as Potential Anti-Influenza Agents
Authors: Lotfi Bourougaa , Mebarka Ouassaf , Alhatlani Bader Y. , Abdallah Emad M. , Kawsar Sarkar M. A.
Published: September 2023

Influenza represents a profoundly transmissible viral ailment primarily afflicting the respiratory system. Neuraminidase inhibitors constitute a class of antiviral therapeutics employed in the management of influenza. These inhibitors impede the liberation of the viral neuraminidase protein, thereby impeding viral dissemination from the infected cell to host cells. As such, neuraminidase has emerged as a pivotal target for mitigating influenza and its associated complications. Here, we apply a de novo hybridization approach based on a breed-centric methodology to elucidate novel neuraminidase inhibitors. The breed technique amalgamates established ligand frameworks with the shared target, neuraminidase, resulting in innovative inhibitor constructs. Molecular docking analysis revealed that the seven synthesized breed molecules (designated Breeds 1–7) formed more robust complexes with the neuraminidase receptor than conventional clinical neuraminidase inhibitors such as zanamivir, oseltamivir, and peramivir. Pharmacokinetic evaluations of the seven breed molecules (Breeds 1–7) demonstrated favorable bioavailability and optimal permeability, all falling within the specified parameters for human application. Molecular dynamics simulations spanning 100 nanoseconds corroborated the stability of these breed molecules within the active site of neuraminidase, shedding light on their structural dynamics. Binding energy assessments, which were conducted through MM-PBSA analysis, substantiated the enduring complexes formed by the seven types of molecules and the neuraminidase receptor. Last, the investigation employed a reaction-based enumeration technique to ascertain the synthetic pathways for the synthesis of the seven breed molecules.
Recent Advances in Metal-Organic Framework (MOF)-Based Photocatalysts: Design Strategies and Applications in Heavy Metal Control
Authors: Ma Qiang , Li Yunling , Tan Yawen , Xu Bowen , Cai Jun , Zhang Yingjie , Wang Qingyuan , Wu Qihong , Yang Bowen , Huang Jin
Published: September 2023

The heavy metal contamination of water systems has become a major environmental concern worldwide. Photocatalysis using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) has emerged as a promising approach for heavy metal remediation, owing to the ability of MOFs to fully degrade contaminants through redox reactions that are driven by photogenerated charge carriers. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent developments in MOF-based photocatalysts for removing and decontaminating heavy metals from water. The tunable nature of MOFs allows the rational design of composition and features to enhance light harvesting, charge separation, pollutant absorptivity, and photocatalytic activities. Key strategies employed include metal coordination tuning, organic ligand functionalization, heteroatom doping, plasmonic nanoparticle incorporation, defect engineering, and morphology control. The mechanisms involved in the interactions between MOF photocatalysts and heavy metal contaminants are discussed, including light absorption, charge carrier separation, metal ion adsorption, and photocatalytic redox reactions. The review highlights diverse applications of MOF photocatalysts in treating heavy metals such as lead, mercury, chromium, cadmium, silver, arsenic, nickel, etc. in water remediation. Kinetic modeling provides vital insights into the complex interplay between coupled processes such as adsorption and photocatalytic degradation that influence treatment efficiency. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is also crucial for evaluating the sustainability of MOF-based technologies. By elucidating the latest advances, current challenges, and future opportunities, this review provides insights into the potential of MOF-based photocatalysts as a sustainable technology for addressing the critical issue of heavy metal pollution in water systems. Ongoing efforts are needed to address the issues of stability, recyclability, scalable synthesis, and practical reactor engineering.
Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase and Post-Translational Modifications in the Development of Central Nervous System Diseases: Implications and Regulation
Authors: Maccallini Cristina , Amoroso Rosa
Published: September 2023

In the Central Nervous System (CNS), Nitric Oxide (NO) is mainly biosynthesized by neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase (nNOS). The dysregulated activation of nNOS in neurons is critical in the development of different conditions affecting the CNS. The excessive production of NO by nNOS is responsible for a number of proteins’ post-translational modifications (PTMs), which can lead to aberrant biochemical pathways, impairing CNS functions. In this review, we briefly revise the main implications of dysregulated nNOS in the progression of the most prevalent CNS neurodegenerative disorders, i.e., Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease, as well as in the development of neuronal disorders. Moreover, a specific focus on compounds able to modulate nNOS activity as promising therapeutics to tackle different neuronal diseases is presented.
Treatment of Acute Ischaemic Stroke and Concomitant Multiple Arterial Splanchnic Thromboses in a Patient with Immune Thrombocytopenia on Thrombopoietin Agonist: A Case Report
Authors: Frol Senta , Pretnar Oblak Janja , Šabovič Mišo , Kermer Pawel , Sever Matjaž
Published: September 2023

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune blood disorder characterised by isolated severe thrombocytopenia. Arterial thrombotic events, such as acute ischaemic stroke (AIS), are rare complications. A 56-year-old woman with chronic ITP on eltrombopag and dexamethasone therapy presented to the emergency department due to AIS in the vertebrobasilar territory, and lower abdominal pain. The computed tomography (CT) scan of the head was unremarkable, whereas CT angiography revealed left vertebral artery occlusion. As the platelet count was sufficient, intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) was initiated. However, after 15 min, an anaphylactic reaction occurred, which was appropriately solved. Although the IVT was prematurely stopped, the NIHSS score improved from 7 to 2, and the follow-up head CT scan remained unremarkable. CT angiography of the thoracoabdominal aorta revealed multiple thrombi in the infrarenal aorta, inferior mesenteric artery (IMA), and left renal artery. The abdominal pain subsided after IVT, but recurred within 24 h. Repeated CT angiography showed ischaemia of the descending colon, with persistent IMA occlusion. After the hemicolectomy condition stabilised. Discrete left-sided ataxia and impaired sensation were the only neurological sequelae. We found two articles reporting only three patients with ITP who suffered AIS and were treated with IVT. A favourable outcome was observed in two cases, while one patient suffered an intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) and died. A review of AIS cases with undefined thrombocytopenia treated with IVT reported ICH in up to 6.8% of patients. Our case suggests that IVT for AIS may be effective in patients with ITP. Further data are needed to better clarify this issue.
Are Twin Pregnancies at Higher Risk for Iron and Calcium Deficiency than Singleton Pregnancies?
Authors: Dera-Szymanowska Anna , Filipowicz Dorota , Misan Natalia , Szymanowski Krzysztof , Chillon Thilo Samson , Asaad Sabrina , Sun Qian , Szczepanek-Parulska Ewelina , Schomburg Lutz , Ruchała Marek
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to compare the iron and calcium status in singleton and twin pregnancies and to assess whether there is an increased risk for iron and calcium deficiency in twin gestation. The study included 105 singleton and 9 twin pregnancies at or above 35 weeks of gestation. Information on prenatal supplementation with iron or calcium was acquired, and adverse perinatal outcomes were recorded. Biosamples from all 114 mothers and 73 newborns (61 singleton and 12 twin newborns) were finally analyzed. Total iron and calcium concentrations in serum were measured through total reflection X-ray fluorescence analysis. The results indicated no significant differences in maternal serum iron and calcium concentrations between singleton and twin pregnancies. Similarly, iron and calcium concentrations in newborn umbilical cord serum samples were not different between singleton and twin pregnancies. The comparison of total iron and calcium between mothers and umbilical cord serum indicated significantly lower concentrations in the mothers, with the differences being not homogenous but rather pair-specific. A significant positive correlation between maternal serum and umbilical cord serum calcium concentration was noticed. Prenatal iron supplementation was associated with higher iron concentrations in both mothers and newborns, supporting the efficiency of supplementation and the quality of the study methods. Collectively, the data indicate no significant differences in serum iron and calcium concentrations with regard to singleton or twin pregnancies and the efficiency of iron supplementation during pregnancy for increasing iron status.
Duckweed: Research Meets Applications
Authors: Oláh Viktor , Appenroth Klaus-Juergen , Sree K. Sowjanya
Published: September 2023

The Special Issue “Duckweed: Research Meets Applications” of the journal Plants (ISSN 2223-7747) presents a comprehensive update of the current progress in the field [...]
Research Regarding the Dimensional Precision of Electrical Steel Strips Machined by Waterjet Cutting in Multilayer Packages
Authors: Nasulea Daniel , Filip Alexandru Catalin , Zisu Silvia , Oancea Gheorghe
Published: September 2023

Manufacturing parts made of thin steel in small batches is a challenging task in terms of reaching the proper balance between the productivity, the cost, and the dimensional precision. This paper presents the results of experimental research about manufacturing electrical steel thin parts using abrasive waterjet cutting. For a certain increase of productivity and a more efficient process, the parts were cut using multilayer packages of steel strips. The main objective was to analyze the influence of the number of layers on the dimensional precision of parts. Preliminary tests were performed, followed by a full factorial experiment using two independent parameters, the number of layers and the traverse speed. The parts were measured on a noncontact vision measurement machine and mathematical models were determined to predict the parts deviations depending on the independent parameters used. A practical validation of the models was performed. The main conclusion is that the number of layers has a certain influence on the accuracy of dimensions, but this influence can be predicted with a satisfactory level of confidence using mathematical models.
Observability-Constrained Resampling-Free Cubature Kalman Filter for GNSS/INS with Measurement Outliers
Authors: Cui Bingbo , Chen Wu , Weng Duojie , Wei Xinhua , Sun Zeyu , Zhao Yan , Liu Yufei
Published: September 2023

Integrating global navigation satellite systems (GNSSs) with inertial navigation systems (INSs) has been widely recognized as an ideal solution for autonomous vehicle navigation. However, GNSSs suffer from disturbances and signal blocking inevitably, making the performance of GNSS/INSs degraded in the occurrence of measurement outliers. It has been proven that the sigma points-based Kalman filter (KF) performs better than an extended KF in cases where large prior uncertainty is present in the state estimation of a GNSS/INS. By modifying the sigma points directly, the resampling-free sigma point update framework (SUF) propagates more information excepting Gaussian moments of prescribed accuracy, based on which the resampling-free cubature Kalman filter (RCKF) was developed in our previous work. In order to enhance the adaptivity and robustness of the RCKF, the resampling-free SUF depending on dynamic prediction residue should be improved by suppressing the time-varying measurement outlier. In this paper, a robust observability-constrained RCKF (ROCRCKF) is proposed based on adaptive measurement noise covariance estimation and outlier detection, where the occurrence of measurement outliers is modelled by the Bernoulli variable and estimated with the state simultaneously. Experiments based on car-mounted GNSS/INSs are performed to verify the effectiveness of the ROCRCKF, and result indicates that the proposed algorithm outperforms the RCKF in the presence of measurement outliers, where the heading error and average root mean square error of the position are reduced from 1.96° and 6.38 m to 0.27° and 5.95 m, respectively. The ROCRCKF is robust against the measurement outliers and time-varying model uncertainty, making it suitable for the real-time implementation of GNSS/INSs in GNSS-challenged environments.
Comparison of Five Spectral Indices and Six Imagery Classification Techniques for Assessment of Crop Residue Cover Using Four Years of Landsat Imagery
Authors: Stern Alan J. , Daughtry Craig S. T. , Hunt E. Raymond , Gao Feng
Published: September 2023

Determining residue cover on agricultural land is an important task. Residue cover helps reduce soil erosion and helps sequester carbon. Many studies have used either spectral indices or classification techniques to map residue cover using satellite imagery. Unfortunately, most of these studies use only a few spectral indices or classification techniques and generally only study an area for a single year with a certain level of success. This manuscript presents an investigation of five spectral indices and six classification techniques over four years to determine if a single spectral index or classification technique performs consistently better than the others. A second objective is to determine whether using the coefficient of determination (R2) from the relationship between residue cover and a spectral index is a reasonable substitute for calculating accuracy. Field visits were conducted for each of the years studied and used to create the correlations with the spectral indices and as ground truth for the classification techniques. It was found that no spectral index/classification technique is consistently better than all the others. Classification techniques tended to be more accurate in 2011 and 2013, while spectral indices tended to be more accurate in 2015 and 2018. The combination of spectral indices/classification techniques outperformed the individual approach. For the second objective, it was found that R2 is not a great indicator of accuracy. Root mean square error (RMSE) is a better indicator of accuracy than R2. However, simply calculating the accuracy would be the best of all.
A Survey of Latest Wi-Fi Assisted Indoor Positioning on Different Principles
Authors: Dai Jihan , Wang Maoyi , Wu Bochun , Shen Jiajie , Wang Xin
Published: September 2023

As the location-based service (LBS) plays an increasingly important role in real life, the topic of positioning attracts more and more attention. Under different environments and principles, researchers have proposed a series of positioning schemes and implemented many positioning systems. With widely deployed networks and massive devices, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) technology is promising in the field of indoor positioning. In this paper, we survey the authoritative or latest positioning schemes for Wi-Fi-assisted indoor positioning. To this end, we describe the problem and corresponding applications, as well as an overview of the alternative methods. Then, we classify and analyze Wi-Fi-assisted indoor positioning schemes in detail, as well as review related work. Furthermore, we point out open challenges and forecast promising directions for future work.
Correction: Lay et al. Ultrasonic Quality Assurance at Magnesia Shotcrete Sealing Structures. Sensors 2022, 22, 8717
Authors: Lay Vera , Effner Ute , Niederleithinger Ernst , Arendt Jennifer , Hofmann Martin , Kudla Wolfram
Published: September 2023

The authors wish to correct the following errors in the original paper [...]
Impact of Cumin and Green Tea on Amlodipine Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetics in Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Abdelrahman Ibrahim Abdelsalam , Ahad Abdul , Raish Mohammad , Bin Jardan Yousef A. , Alam Mohd Aftab , Al-Jenoobi Fahad I.
Published: September 2023

The main purpose of the current research was to determine the impact of cumin and green tea on the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of amlodipine in hypertensive rats. Wistar rats were given 40 mg/kg of L-NAME orally every day for two weeks in order to induce hypertension. The groups treated with herbs received L-NAME with a daily oral dose of cumin (200 mg/kg) and green tea (200 mg/kg), respectively. After the treatment for 14 days, blood pressure was measured at specific intervals using a tail-cuff BP-measurement device for 24 h. For oral pharmacokinetics of amlodipine (single dose, 1 mg/kg), the blood samples were collected at predetermined intervals up to 24 h, and plasma samples were analyzed using UPLC-LC MS/MS. In comparison to the hypertensive control group, green tea and cumin significantly decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressures, as well as mean arterial pressures. Green tea has demonstrated a more prominent effect on pharmacodynamic of amlodipine compared to cumin. The rats treated with amlodipine, cumin + amlodipine, and green tea + amlodipine exhibited AUC0-t of 38.85 ± 14.8 ng h/mL, 52.05 ± 10.2 ng h/mL, and 114.73 ± 24.94 ng h/mL, respectively. In addition, it has been observed that co-administration of green tea and cumin increases the Cmax and T1/2 of amlodipine. The results indicated a potential interaction between amlodipine and the investigated herbs in hypertensive rats. Hence, precautions should be taken while concurrently administrating amlodipine with the investigated herbs.
Optimal Design of the Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Connected to the Network Utilizing an Improved Version of the Metaheuristic Algorithm
Authors: Guo Xuanxia , Ghadimi Noradin
Published: September 2023

Fuel cells are a newly developed source for generating electric energy. These cells produce electricity through a chemical reaction between oxygen and hydrogen, which releases electrons. In recent years, extensive research has been conducted in this field, leading to the emergence of high-power batteries. This study introduces a novel technique to enhance the power quality of grid-connected proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. The proposed approach uses an inverter following a buck converter that reduces voltage. A modified pelican optimization (MPO) algorithm optimizes the controller firing. A comparison is made between the controller’s performance, based on the recommended MPO algorithm and various other recent approaches, demonstrating the superior efficiency of the MPO algorithm. The study’s findings indicate that the current–voltage relationship in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) follows a logarithmic pattern, but becomes linear in the presence of ohmic overvoltage. Furthermore, the PEMFC operates at an impressive efficiency of 60.43% when running at 8 A, and it can deliver a significant power output under specific operating conditions. The MPO algorithm surpasses other strategies in terms of efficiency and reduction in voltage deviation, highlighting its effectiveness in managing the voltage stability, and improving the overall performance. Even during a 0.2 sagging event, the MPO-based controller successfully maintains the fuel cell voltage near its rated value, showcasing the robustness of the optimized regulators. The suggested MPO algorithm also achieves a superior accuracy in maintaining the voltage stability across various operating conditions.
Impact of Perinatal Coexposure to Chlorpyrifos and a High-Fat Diet on Kisspeptin and GnRHR Presence and Reproductive Organs
Authors: Lahimer Marwa , Djekkoun Narimane , Tricotteaux-Zarqaoui Sophian , Corona Aurélie , Lafosse Isabelle , Ali Habib Ben , Ajina Mounir , Bach Véronique , Benkhalifa Moncef , Khorsi-Cauet Hafida
Published: September 2023

Emerging evidence has indicated the involvement of extrahypothalamic Kisspeptin and GnRHR in reproductive function. In this study, we evaluate if maternal exposure to the pesticide chlorpyrifos (CPF) and/or a high-fat diet (HFD) has an impact on the expression of Kisspeptin and GnRHR in the reproductive organs of rats’ offspring. A total of 16 pregnant rats are divided into four groups: a control group (n = 4), CPF group (4 rats exposed daily to 1/mg/kg/day), HFD group (4 rats randomly fed a 5.25 kcal/g HFD), and coexposed group (4 rats exposed to CPF and HDF). At postnatal development postnatal day (PND) 60, male and female offspring were sacrificed. The reproductive organs (ovary and testis) were removed, and histological and immunohistological analysis and in silico quantification (TissueGnostics software 6.0.1.102, TissueFAXS, HistoQuest) were applied to investigate the impact of different treatments on Kisspeptin and GnRHR expression in reproductive organs. The main outcomes of the study showed a significant decrease in rat offspring’s body weight in the CPF group from PND30 and PND60 (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). Histological analysis showed a significant increase in the atretic follicle and abnormal testis structure with germ cell desquamation in the CPF-exposed group. The immunodetection quantification of protein shows a significant decrease in GnRHR and Kisspeptin in the HFD and CPF exposed groups, respectively, in testis rat offspring. Perinatal exposure to CPF and HFD exposure affect the reproduction function of rat offspring.
Antifungal Activity of Ageritin, a Ribotoxin-like Protein from Cyclocybe aegerita Edible Mushroom, against Phytopathogenic Fungi
Authors: Ragucci Sara , Castaldi Stefany , Landi Nicola , Isticato Rachele , Di Maro Antimo
Published: September 2023

Ageritin from poplar mushrooms is a specific endonuclease that hydrolyzes a single phosphodiester bond located in the sarcin-ricin loop (SRL) of the large rRNA, thereby blocking protein synthesis. Considering the possible biotechnological use of this enzyme, here we report its antifungal activity against virulent fungi affecting crops of economic interest. Our results show that ageritin (200 µg/plug; ~13.5 nmole) inhibits the growth of Botrytis cinerea (57%), Colletotrichum truncatum (42%), and Alternaria alternata (57%), when tested on potato dextrose agar plates. At the same time, no effect was observed against Trichoderma harzianum (a fungus promoting beneficial effects in plants). To verify whether the antifungal action of ageritin against B. cinerea and T. harzianum was due to ribosome damage, we tested ageritin in vitro on partially isolated B. cinerea and T. harzianum ribosomes. Interestingly, ageritin was able to release the Endo’s fragment from both tested fungal ribosomes. We therefore decided to test the antifungal effect of ageritin on B. cinerea and T. harzianum using a different growth condition (liquid medium). Differently from the result in solid medium, ageritin can inhibit both B. cinerea and T. harzianum fungal growth in liquid medium in a concentration-dependent manner up to 35.7% and 38.7%, respectively, at the highest concentration tested (~200 µg/mL; 12 µM), and the analysis of RNA isolated from ageritin-treated cells revealed the presence of Endo’s fragment, highlighting its ability to cross the fungal cell wall and reach the ribosomes. Overall, these data highlight that the efficacy of antifungal treatment to prevent or treat a potential fungal disease may depend not only on the fungal species but also on the conditions of toxin application.
Betapapillomaviruses in p16-Negative Vulvar Intraepithelial Lesions Associated with Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lozar Taja , Keske Aysenur , Dube Mandishora Racheal S. , Yu Qiqi , Bailey Adam , Xu Jin , Tommasino Massimo , McGregor Stephanie M. , Lambert Paul F. , Gheit Tarik , Fitzpatrick Megan B.
Published: September 2023

Approximately 40% of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (vSCC) cases are etiologically associated with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs) of the alpha genera (α-HPV) that cause other anogenital cancers; however, the etiology of α-HPV-negative vSCC is poorly understood. HPVs of the beta genera (β-HPV) are risk factors for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) and may be related to carcinomas originating in other cutaneous sites such as the vulva. In this study, we investigate the presence of β-HPVs, with an emphasis on p16-negative squamous lesions adjacent to vSCC. We subjected 28 vulvar squamous intraepithelial lesions adjacent to vSCC for comprehensive HPV genotyping, p16 and p53 immunohistochemistry, and consensus morphology review. Selected cases were subjected to qPCR and RNA in situ hybridization. Clinical data were obtained from medical records. β-HPV DNA was detected in eight of ten p16-negative lesions and three of fourteen p16-positive high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions. The HPV DNA loads in vulvar squamous intraepithelial lesions ranged between less than 1 HPV DNA copy per cell to more than 100 HPV DNA copies per cell. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the first report of the association of p16-negative vulvar intraepithelial squamous lesions with detection of β-HPVs. These findings expand possible etiologic mechanisms that may contribute to p16-negative lesions of the vulva.
Replicate Testing of Clinical Endpoints Can Prevent No-Go Decisions for Beneficial Vaccines
Authors: Rosenbloom Daniel I. S. , Dudášová Julie , Davis Casey , Railkar Radha A. , Mehrotra Nitin , Sachs Jeffrey R.
Published: September 2023

In vaccine efficacy trials, inaccurate counting of infection cases leads to systematic under-estimation—or “dilution”—of vaccine efficacy. In particular, if a sufficient fraction of observed cases are false positives, apparent efficacy will be greatly reduced, leading to unwarranted no-go decisions in vaccine development. Here, we propose a range of replicate testing strategies to address this problem, considering the additional challenge of uncertainty in both infection incidence and diagnostic assay specificity/sensitivity. A strategy that counts an infection case only if a majority of replicate assays return a positive result can substantially reduce efficacy dilution for assays with non-systematic (i.e., “random”) errors. We also find that a cost-effective variant of this strategy, using confirmatory assays only if an initial assay is positive, yields a comparable benefit. In clinical trials, where frequent longitudinal samples are needed to detect short-lived infections, this “confirmatory majority rule” strategy can prevent the accumulation of false positives from magnifying efficacy dilution. When widespread public health screening is used for viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, that have non-differentiating features or may be asymptomatic, these strategies can also serve to reduce unneeded isolations caused by false positives.
Successful Treatment of Captive Common Marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) Infested with Common Cat Fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) by Using Topical Imidacloprid and Environmental Control Measures
Authors: Cermolacce Alexia , Lacoste Romain , Moulin Valérie , Briand Amaury , Bakker Jaco
Published: September 2023

Fleas are ectoparasites affecting many animal species but reports in captive nonhuman primates are rare and mainly concern pet monkeys. Moreover, to the authors’ knowledge, a detailed report on marmosets is not known at present. This case describes the clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of a flea infestation by Ctenocephalides felis in a captive colony of common marmosets. Fleas, flea feces and skin lesions were identified on two animals during annual health screening. Subsequently, the entire colony was examined, and nearly half of the colony showed signs of infestation. Consequently, treatment was initiated for the entire colony and the environment. Animals received two topical administrations of imidacloprid (5 mg for animals <200 g and 10 mg for animals weighing >200 g) three weeks apart, and their enclosures were decontaminated using vaporizers containing permethrin, piperonyl butoxide, and pyriproxyfen. Subsequently, skin lesions were resolved and no evidence of fleas were noticed. No side effects of the treatment were observed. Stray cats were identified as the source of the infestation. Their access to the animal-related rooms was stopped. No reinfestation has been reported for 3 years. The topical application of imidacloprid appeared effective with no adverse events occurring, so may be appropriate for use in other non-human primates.
Research on Electric Vehicle Braking Intention Recognition Based on Sample Entropy and Probabilistic Neural Network
Authors: Wen Jianping , Zhang Haodong , Li Zhensheng , Fang Xiurong
Published: September 2023

The accurate identification of a driver’s braking intention is crucial to the formulation of regenerative braking control strategies for electric vehicles. In this paper, a braking intention recognition model based on the sample entropy of the braking signal and a probabilistic neural network (PNN) is proposed to achieve the accurate recognition of different braking intentions. Firstly, the brake pedal travel signal is decomposed to extract the effective components via variational modal decomposition (VMD); then, the features of the decomposed signal are extracted using sample entropy to obtain the multidimensional feature vector of the braking signal; finally, the sparrow search algorithm (SSA) and probabilistic neural network are combined to optimize the smoothing factor with the sparrow search algorithm and the cross-entropy loss function as the fitness function to establish a braking intention recognition model. The experimental validation results show that combining the sample entropy features of the braking signal with the probabilistic neural network can effectively identify the braking intention, and the SSA-PNN algorithm has higher recognition accuracy compared with the traditional machine learning algorithm.
Mechanisms of oral microbial biofilm formation in healthy people and patients with chronic generalized periodontitis
Authors: Leonteva A. V. , Pototskaya L. A. , Chervinets Y. V.
Published: September 2023

Relevance. Oral biofilms are integrated three-dimensional symbiontic microbial structures embedded in the extracellular matrix that form not only on the mucous membrane but also on hard surfaces such as enamel and root of teeth, as well as dentures. Our study correlated biofilms and the onset of such a serious oral disease as chronic generalized periodontitis.

Material and Methods. The analysis of national and international literature in PubMed, Google Search and eLIBRARY databases over the past 15 years served as material and methods.

Results. There is currently an increased interest in studying the mechanisms of microbial biofilms and the factors affecting this process. Planktonic bacteria are more sensitive to antimicrobials than bacteria in biofilms. Several factors, such as gas signalling molecules, may become an important tool for intermicrobial communication in a biofilm. Biofilm microorganisms are highly resistant to antibacterial drugs. Bacteria release enzymes and toxins that stimulate the body to produce large amounts of specific antibodies and cytokines. However, the immune components are blocked by the biofilm extracellular matrix and cannot enter the biofilm. Immune complexes are formed in the infection foci, damage the body's tissues, and aggravate inflammation.

Conclusion. Periodontal diseases are the most common oral diseases in humans, and their onset is closely related to the pathogenic properties of the oral microbiota, which exists in biofilms. The mechanisms of biofilm formation are complex and associated with the expression of various microorganism/matrix pathogenicity factors by oral commensal microorganisms. Further study is necessary to understand the way of biofilm formation neutralization and to find an effective treatment for chronic generalized periodontitis.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TECHNIQUES FOR THE PEST DETECTION IN BANANA FIELD: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Nasim Shahzad , Rashid Munaf , Syed Sidra Abid , Brohi Imtiaz
Published: September 2023

Purpose: This systematic review details the diseases that influence banana production and their detection. A common method for identifying plant diseases in plants is image processing. Segmentation is one method for using image processing to establish medical diagnosis. The main objective of this study is to identify, categorize, and evaluate several image processing techniques used to control pests in a banana crop.
Methodology: An electronic search was conducted using relevant keywords on openly available databases including IEEE Xplore, PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. 104 items were discovered by the search engine. After removing the duplicates, there were 56 research papers remained, but 22 of them were discarded after title and abstract checks since they did not address insect detection in banana fields.
Results: 22 papers that come under the headings of image classification, AI/ML, deep learning, and mobile applications provide usable and reliable detection techniques in this systematic review