bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alzheimer’s Disease: Cellular and Pharmacological Aspects
Authors: Aranda-Abreu Gonzalo Emiliano , Rojas-Durán Fausto , Hernández-Aguilar María Elena , Herrera-Covarrubias Deissy , Chí-Castañeda Lizbeth Donají , Toledo-Cárdenas María Rebeca , Suárez-Medellín Jorge Manuel
Published: June 2024

Alzheimer’s disease was described more than 100 years ago and despite the fact that several molecules are being tested for its treatment, which are in phase III trials, the disease continues to progress. The main problem is that these molecules function properly in healthy neurons, while neuronal pathology includes plasma membrane disruption, malfunction of various organelles, and hyperphosphorylation of Tau and amyloid plaques. The main objective of this article is the discussion of a neuronal restoration therapy, where molecules designed for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease would probably be more effective, and the quality of life of people would be better.
Evaluating the Impact of a Virtual Health Coaching Lifestyle Program on Weight Loss after Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Prospective Study
Authors: Strauss Kristina , Sauls Rachel , Alencar Michelle K. , Johnson Kelly E.
Published: June 2024

Bariatric surgery (BS) is a leading treatment for obesity; however, adverse side effects (e.g., pain and infection) can deter patients or affect weight maintenance. This study investigates how a post-operative virtual health coaching lifestyle program, monitoring virtual weekly goal progress made by patients, affects weight loss after BS, specifically sleeve gastrectomy. Patients recruited for this 6-month study were classified with a BMI > 30 kg/m2 90 days post-operatively. Patients were prescribed lifestyle support delivered by certified health and wellness coaches (InHealth Lifestyle Therapeutics™). Demographic variables (e.g., age, weight, height, and gender) were obtained and compared according to initial, 3-, 6-month, and current weight through repeated measures ANOVA and post hoc comparison. Thirty-eight adult participants were included, with a mean age of 52 years ± 12.9 and with a majority (n = 35; 97%) of them being female. There were significant differences in weight reported across all five time points (p < 0.05), with the greatest weight difference seen between the initial (250.3 ± 45.5 lbs.) and final time points (226.7± 40.4 lbs.). This study suggests post-operative virtual health coaching can enhance weight loss outcomes after sleeve gastrectomy. Further research is needed to assess the long-term effects and cost-effectiveness of such a form of coaching for bariatric surgery patients.
Morphological Characterization of Opuntia Accessions from Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain) Using UPOV Descriptors
Authors: Díaz-Delgado Goretti L. , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Elena M. , Ríos Domingo , Cano María Pilar , Lobo María Gloria
Published: June 2024

Twenty Opuntia accessions from Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain) were classified according to 52 quantitative and qualitative descriptors, including the traits of the cladodes, flowers, fruits, and spines, as described by the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) guidelines. A database composed of 20 accessions and 52 traits was used to perform a cluster analysis based on the Euclidian distance and Ward’s method and a canonical discriminant analysis. In terms of the analyzed characteristics, cactus pears with orange flesh showed less variability than cactus pears with white or purple flesh. Good classifications according to fruit flesh color were obtained using discriminant analysis. As a result of the cluster analysis, Opuntia plant accessions with white, orange, or purple-fleshed fruits were classified into four homogeneous groups according to the cubic clustering criteria. This study proves that it was possible to make a preliminary classification of Opuntia varieties from the Canary Islands based on a few main morphological characteristics. To improve the classification, a molecular analysis of the different Opuntia plants is necessary.
Identifying Bioactive Compounds in Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Plants under Water Deficit Conditions
Authors: Gómez-Bellot María José , Guerrero Lilisbet , Yuste José Enrique , Vallejo Fernando , Sánchez-Blanco María Jesús
Published: June 2024

Deficit irrigation (DI) strategies are becoming increasingly common in areas where water resources are limited. The application of moderate levels of DI can result in water savings with a small reduction in yield but with a higher quality of the product. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of applying a certain level of water deficit (40% water holding capacity) on the yield and quality of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), specifically the cultivar ‘Triunfo-70’. Bioactive compounds were investigated by applying an LC-MS-based untargeted metabolomics approach as an analytical tool for identifying novel markers associated with a water deficit in beans. The results showed that beans harvested 30 days after DI application experienced water stress, as indicated by the decrease in the leaf water potential and gas exchange values (stomatal conductance and photosynthesis). In addition, the number of pods per plant was significantly reduced by the DI treatment. The water deficit induced significant alterations in various bioactive compounds (including organic acids, polyphenols, hydroxybenzoic acids, lipids, and phospholipids) when compared to the control treatment. Additionally, twelve new biomarkers were identified in this study for the first time in the common bean under DI. These findings suggested that DI acted as an elicitor, increasing phenylpropanoid metabolism, while concurrently reducing the production of compounds associated with fatty acid metabolism. Additionally, new metabolites were tentatively identified in common beans. This study represents the successful application of the untargeted metabolomics approach to finding bioactive secondary metabolites in beans under different irrigation conditions.
Development and Evaluation of a Trichoderma-Based Bioformulation for Enhancing Sustainable Potato Cultivation
Authors: Napolitano Angelo , Senatore Mauro , Coluccia Simone , Palomba Francesca , Castaldo Margherita , Spasiano Teresa , Avino Alessio Giovanni , Vitale Andrea , Bonfante Antonello , Sacco Adriana , Ruocco Michelina
Published: June 2024

The potato (Solanum tuberosum) is one of the most widespread and cultivated Solanaceae in the world. To overcome the increasing problems of intensive cultivation and climate change, finding new strategies to guarantee the needs of today and future generations has become mandatory. The use of biostimulants based on Trichoderma spp. can be an excellent alternative to reduce the use of pesticides, as well as to mitigate the effects of biotic and abiotic stresses. In this study we evaluated the effects of a new bioformulation containing two Trichoderma strains on potato growth and yield. Trichoderma strains were characterised morphologically and molecularly. Application of the new bioformulate was able to promote potato plant growth and caused a significant increase in plant fresh (+107%) and dry weight (+74%), and potato tuber fresh weight (+37%) and number (+41%), and it also improved potato yield (+36%). These findings suggest that the bioformulation is a viable alternative to reduce pesticide use and mitigate biotic and abiotic stress in potato cultivation.
Modelling the Growth of Listeria monocytogenes on Fresh-Cut Cucumbers at Various Storage Temperatures
Authors: Feng Ke , Sarengaowa  , Ma Junyi , Hu Wenzhong
Published: June 2024

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the behavior of Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) on fresh-cut cucumbers. Fresh-cut cucumber samples were inoculated with a mixture of six strains of L. monocytogenes. The inoculated samples were stored at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 °C. The results demonstrated that L. monocytogenes was able to grow on fresh-cut cucumbers at all the evaluated temperatures, although its growth decreased but was not inhibited at 5 °C. An extreme storage temperature of 35 °C considerably reduced the lag time. L. monocytogenes growth on fresh-cut cucumbers was controlled for several days by storage at a low temperature, mainly at 5 °C. Thus, this product should only be stored at low temperatures. The growth process was fitted by the Baranyi model, with the specific growth rates equally well-fitted to the Ratkowsky square-root model. The R-square and mean square error values for the corresponding Ratkowsky square-root models were 0.97 (R2 > 0.95) and 0.02, respectively. The Baranyi and Ratkowsky square-root models exhibited good relevancy. The predictive models developed in this study can be used to estimate the risk assessment of L. monocytogenes on fresh-cut cucumber.
Charting the Course: Towards a Comprehensive Newborn Screening Program in India
Authors: Kapoor Seema , Gupta Amit Kumar , Thelma B. K.
Published: June 2024

Integrating health interventions in a growing economy like India, with a birth cohort of 27 million/year, one-fifth of all childbirths, and approximately one-third of neonatal deaths globally, is a challenge. While mortality statistics are vital, intact survival and early preventive healthcare, such as newborn screening (NBS), are paramount. The appalling lack of information about the precise burden of metabolic errors at the state/national level or a mandated program encouraged a feasibility study of NBS in a prospective newborn cohort recruited in Delhi State (November 2014–April 2017) using a public–private partnership mode. The major determinants for effective implementation of universal NBS at the national level and limitations encountered are discussed in this report. Data to generate the ‘core’ panel for screening, sustained training of healthcare personnel, dissemination of the power of NBS to ensure neonatal/societal health to the public, and a ‘national policy’ emerge as priorities in a developing country.
Passion Fruit Cultivation: An Approach to Internal Leaf Anatomy
Authors: Manzani Lisboa Lucas Aparecido , Cavichioli José Carlos , Ferreira Thiago de Souza , da Silva Aldeir , de Figueiredo Paulo Alexandre Monteiro
Published: June 2024

Some species of the genus Passiflora have leaf morphological adaptations that grow to influence the development of the plant in producing areas. Hence, the objective of this work is to quantify and characterize the leaf anatomy of passion fruit species distributed in the South American region, which can become an important strategy in the selection of species more adapted to the environment where they will be grown. This work evaluates the abaxial and adaxial cuticle thickness (ABCT and ADCT), abaxial and adaxial epidermis thickness (ABET and ADET), xylem diameter (XD), phloem diameter (PD), and thickness of the palisade parenchyma (TPP), of the species Passiflora quadrangularis L., Passiflora foetida L., Passiflora edulis Sims, Passiflora gibertii N.E Brown, Passiflora coccinea Aubl, Passiflora alata Curtis, Passiflora tenuifila Killip, Passiflora caerulea L., and Passiflora cincinnata Mast. Passion fruit species present differences in leaf anatomy, which may influence the plant’s development. The species Passiflora quadrangularis L. showed a greater thickness of cuticles, epidermis, conducting vessels, and palisade parenchyma. The species Passiflora edulis has higher density and stomatal functionality. All Passiflora species formed druses on their leaves.
Dual-Energy CT in Acute Stroke: Could Non-Contrast CT Be Replaced by Virtual Non-Contrast CT? A Feasibility Study
Authors: Herpe Guillaume , Platon Alexandra , Poletti Pierre-Alexandre , Lövblad Karl O. , Machi Paolo , Becker Minerva , Muster Michel , Perneger Thomas , Guillevin Rémy
Published: June 2024

Purpose: We aimed to evaluate whether virtual non-contrast cerebral computed tomography (VNCCT) reconstructed from intravenous contrast-enhanced dual-energy CT (iv-DECT) could replace non-contrast CT (NCCT) in patients with suspected acute cerebral ischemia. Method: This retrospective study included all consecutive patients in whom NCCT followed by iv-DECT were performed for suspected acute ischemia in our emergency department over a 1-month period. The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) was used to determine signs of acute ischemia in the anterior and posterior circulation, the presence of hemorrhage, and alternative findings, which were randomly evaluated via the consensus reading of NCCT and VNCCT by two readers blinded to the final diagnosis. An intraclass correlation between VNCCT and NCCT was calculated for the ASPECTS values. Both techniques were evaluated for their ability to detect ischemic lesions (ASPECTS <10) when compared with the final discharge diagnosis (reference standard). Results: Overall, 148 patients (80 men, mean age 64 years) were included, of whom 46 (30%) presented with acute ischemia, 6 (4%) presented with intracerebral hemorrhage, 11 (7%) had an alternative diagnosis, and 85 (59%) had no pathological findings. The intraclass correlation coefficients of the two modalities were 0.97 (0.96–0.98) for the anterior circulation and 0.77 (0.69–0.83) for the posterior circulation. The VNCCT’s sensitivity for detecting acute ischemia was higher (41%, 19/46) than that of NCCT (33%, 15/46). Specificity was similar between the two techniques, at 94% (97/103) and 98% (101/103), respectively. Conclusions: Our results show that VNCCT achieved a similar diagnostic performance as NCCT and could, thus, replace NCCT in assessing patients with suspected acute cerebral ischemia.
CPM-Related Mechanisms Could Play a Key Role in the Effects on Pain Sensitivity Induced by Manual Therapy: Three Crossover Trials Investigating the Effects of Manual Pressure
Authors: Arribas-Romano Alberto , Fernández-Carnero Josué , Rodríguez-Lagos Leonardo , Molina-Álvarez Miguel , Zabala-Zambrano Jesús , Lezaun-Hernández Lucas , Contreras-Padilla Lucía , Mercado Francisco
Published: June 2024

Objective: The aim of this study is to assess whether pain-inducing manual pressure (PIMP) leads to effects on pressure pain threshold (PPT) mediated by conditioned pain modulation (CPM) and whether these effects are influenced by the intensity and repetition of the stimulus. Additionally, the influence of psychological factors and physical activity on the response to PIMP was explored. Methods: A total of 72 pain-free students were randomly assigned to three crossover trials. Trial 1 compared the effects of PIMP with the cold pressor task and pain-inducing electrostimulation. Trial 2 compared the effects of manual pressure that elicited moderate pain, mild pain, and no pain. Trial 3 compared a single PIMP stimulation with four stimuli applied at the same site or at different sites. Results: PIMP produced a lower increase in PPT than cold pressor task and no difference with electrostimulation. Manual pressure that caused moderate pain led to a greater increase in PPT compared to mild pain and pain-free application. Repetition of PIMP stimulus, whether at the same or different sites, did not significantly increase PPT compared to a single stimulation. No association with psychological factors or physical activity was found. Conclusions: PIMP produces an increase in PPT, suggesting the involvement of CPM-related mechanisms.
Effects of Chemotherapy on Aneuploidy Rates in Sperm from Male Patients with Testicular Cancer or Hodgkin’s Lymphoma—A Systematic Review
Authors: Nissi Jasmin , Kalam Laila , Catalini Laura , Fedder Jens
Published: June 2024

Background: Testicular cancer and Hodgkin’s lymphoma are prevalent malignancies among young males aged 20 to 39. The incidence of testicular cancer and lymphoma has risen in recent years, with orchiectomy often followed by adjuvant chemotherapy as the primary treatment for testicular cancer and chemotherapy for lymphoma. Chemotherapy has been associated with an increased risk of aneuploidy and reduced fertility. Method: This systematic review included seven studies, both case–control and longitudinal prospective designs, from the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. The screening process was conducted using the online tool covidence.org. Results: The study outcomes indicate varied impacts of chemotherapy on aneuploidy rates. An increase in the aneuploidy rates, notably for the sex chromosomes, immediately post-treatment was a common trend, followed by a decline in pretreatment values. Conclusion: This systematic review presents the effects of chemotherapy on the aneuploidy rates of testicular cancer and Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients, with a decrease post-treatment. The findings underscore the need for larger, well-designed studies with a longer study period.
Cardiovascular Imaging for Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Nedeljkovic Beleslin Biljana , Al Nooryani Arif , Beleslin Branko
Published: June 2024

In patients with diabetes mellitus, accelerated progression of atherosclerosis can lead to worse clinical outcomes. Determining the best diagnostic strategy to identify patients with increased cardiovascular risk is challenging. Current guidelines recommend using both functional imaging and CT angiography to detect myocardial ischemia and coronary artery disease based on pre-test probability. Functional imaging is suggested for patients with a higher clinical likelihood due to its higher rule-in diagnostic capacity. On the other hand, CT angiography is preferred for patients with lower pre-test probability because of its excellent negative predictive value. The optimal management strategy for asymptomatic diabetic patients remains unclear. In asymptomatic diabetic patients, previous randomized trials have not shown benefits from diagnostic testing over standard care. However, these trials were methodologically inconsistent and lacked clear stratification of cardiovascular risk. In terms of invasive evaluation, a combined invasive functional and anatomic imaging approach for angiographically intermediate coronary stenosis appears to be the best, most effective decision pathway for managing diabetic patients.
Overview of Cochrane Systematic Reviews on Interventions for Rehabilitation in People with Ischemic Heart Disease: A Mapping Synthesis
Authors: Del Furia Matteo Johann , Arienti Chiara , Cattadori Gaia , Di Marco Silvia , Kiekens Carlotte
Published: June 2024

Objectives: This overview of Cochrane Systematic Reviews (CSRs) reports on current evidence and its certainty of the effectiveness of interventions for the rehabilitation of people with ischemic heart disease (IHD), included in the World Health Organization Rehabilitation Programme Package of Interventions for Rehabilitation. Methods: We included all the CSRs relevant to people with IHD. We used a mapping synthesis to group outcomes and comparisons of included CSRs, indicating the effectiveness of interventions for rehabilitation and the certainty of evidence. Results: The evidence map included a total of 13 CSRs. The effect of the interventions varied across comparisons, and the certainty of evidence was inconsistent, ranging from high to very low. We found the best evidence for exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation in the reduction of fatal and non-fatal myocardial infarction and all-cause hospital admission up to 12 months follow-up. Also, combined interventions (work-directed interventions, physical conditioning interventions, and psychological interventions) reduce the days needed for returning to work. Conclusions: The current effect and certainty of evidence for several comparisons investigated support the role of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation in the management of people with IHD, specifically reducing the risk of fatal and non-fatal myocardial infarction and hospitalisation. However, our findings highlight the lack of high-certainty evidence about hard endpoints, particularly total mortality. Future research should prioritise these primary endpoints to enhance the credibility of cardiac rehabilitation.
Evaluating Short-Term Outcomes of Tunneled and Non-Tunneled Central Venous Catheters in Hemodialysis
Authors: Morisi Niccolò , Montani Martina , Ehode Edwidge Ntouba , Virzì Grazia Maria , Perrone Salvatore , Malaguti Vittoria , Ferrarini Marco , Donati Gabriele
Published: June 2024

Background: The necessity of using central venous catheters (CVCs) in hemodialysis, coupled with their associated complications, remains a critical concern in nephrology. This study aims to compare the short-term prognosis of tunneled (T-CVC) and non-tunneled (NT-CVC) CVCs in acute hemodialysis patients, specifically focusing on infection rates, malpositioning, and lumen thrombosis within the first three weeks post-insertion. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 176 CVCs placed between January and December 2023 at the Policlinico di Modena and the Ospedale Civile di Baggiovara. Patient demographics, CHA2DS2-VASc scores, and comorbid conditions were recorded at the time of catheter placement. Outcomes assessed included catheter-related infections, malpositioning, and lumen thrombosis. Statistical analyses, including Chi-square tests, Fisher’s exact tests, and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, were performed to evaluate differences between T-CVCs and NT-CVCs. Results: The sample comprised 43% females with a mean age of 69.3 years (SD 13.9) and a mean CHADS-VASC score of 3.72 (SD 1.4). Hypertension (90%) was the most prevalent comorbidity. Of the 176 CVCs, 127 were T-CVCs and 49 were NT-CVCs. Infection rates were 3.15% for T-CVCs and 8.16% for NT-CVCs (p = 0.07). Malpositioning occurred in 0.79% of T-CVCs and 4.08% of NT-CVCs (p = 0.47). There was one case of lumen thrombosis in the NT-CVC group. Kaplan–Meier analysis indicated a significant divergence in infection-related catheter survival favoring T-CVCs after ten days (p = 0.034). Conclusions: While non-tunneled CVCs do not significantly alter short-term prognosis compared to tunneled CVCs, the latter show a better infection-related survival rate beyond ten days. Therefore, primary insertion of T-CVCs may be preferable when resources and clinical conditions permit, although NT-CVCs remain a viable option when immediate T-CVC insertion is challenging.
Surgical and Functional Outcomes of Posterior Cordotomy and Partial Arytenoidectomy with CO2 LASER in the Treatment of Bilateral Vocal Cord Immobility: A Single Institution Experience
Authors: Fancello Virginia , Migliorelli Andrea , Campomagnani Isotta , Morolli Federica , Stomeo Francesco , Ricci-Maccarini Andrea , Magnani Massimo , Stacchini Marco
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study is to investigate surgical and functional outcomes of patients affected by bilateral vocal cord immobility (BVCI) and treated with posterior cordotomy and partial arytenoidectomy. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis on pre- and postoperative findings on a series of 27 patients affected by BVCI and treated with posterior cordotomy and partial arytenoidectomy from January 2017 to January 2022. Perceptual voice evaluations were performed using the GRBAS scale. The patients were requested to estimate the level of voice handicap experienced in their life using the Italian version of Voice Handicap Index 10 (VHI 10) questionnaire, while swallowing difficulties were self-evaluated through the Italian version of the Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10) questionnaire. Results: Respiratory distress was evaluated according to the American Medical Research Council Dyspnoea Scale (MRC_DS) before and 1 year after the surgery. The mean of the preoperative values was 3.86 (±0.4), while 1 year after the procedure, we witnessed a significant (p ≤ 0.001) improvement, with a mean value of 1.09 (±0.9). After surgery, an overall worsening in voice quality was perceived, with a worsening in the GRBAS score. In contrast, the VHI10 does not show a statistically significant worsening. EAT 10 did not demonstrated worse scores after the surgery; rather, it showed a trend of improvement (preoperative EAT10 5.5 ± 5.8, postoperative 3.3 ± 2.9, p = 0.064). Conclusions: According to our results, posterior cordotomy plus partial arytenoidectomy is an effective procedure that provides stable and rapid respiratory improvement whilst preserving swallowing and the self-perception of voice quality.
Comment on Polak et al. Principles and Limitations of miRNA Purification and Analysis in Whole Blood Collected during Ablation Procedure from Patients with Atrial Fibrillation. J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13, 1898
Authors: Ross Kehinde
Published: June 2024

In the current issue of the journal, the paper by Polak et al [...]
Bruxism in a Child with Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome)—Case Report
Authors: Sobiech Lena , Dąbkowska Izabela , Bekiesz Wojciech , Turżańska Karolina , Blicharski Tomasz , Sarna-Boś Katarzyna
Published: June 2024

Bruxism has been defined in recent years and analyzed in detail as the repetitive activity of the muscles of the masticatory system. Both adults and children experience two different forms of bruxism: daytime and nighttime bruxism. According to the WHO, bruxism affects 5% to 50% of the world’s pediatric population. The symptoms of this disease include tooth wear and fractures, temporomandibular disorders, headaches, behavioral and sleep disorders, and parafunctional habits such as nail biting. According to scientists, psychosocial factors are the most likely factors causing bruxism in children. To this day, we do not have established standards of treatment for children, especially for those with disabilities. The issue of bruxism in children with Down syndrome (DS) is still unexplained. Anatomical abnormalities in the facial skeleton, reduced muscle tone, personality traits, and sleep problems in these people may cause the symptoms of bruxism. Our study aimed to present a clinical case of a 13-year-old girl with DS and symptoms of bruxism. Diagnostics and dental examination in children with intellectual disabilities and a lack of understanding of the disease create a great challenge for the treatment team, including the dentist, physiotherapist, psychologist, and family. Creating standards for treating and preventing bruxism symptoms is demanding, among other things, due to the lack of sufficient scientific research.
Duration-Dependent Risk of Hypoxemia in Colonoscopy Procedures
Authors: Klang Eyal , Sharif Kassem , Ukashi Offir , Rahman Nisim , Lahat Adi
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims: Colonoscopy is a critical diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in gastroenterology. However, it carries risks, including hypoxemia, which can impact patient safety. Understanding the factors that contribute to the incidence of severe hypoxemia, specifically the role of procedure duration, is essential for improving patient outcomes. This study aims to elucidate the relationship between the length of colonoscopy procedures and the occurrence of severe hypoxemia. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study at Sheba Medical Center, Israel, including 21,524 adult patients who underwent colonoscopy from January 2020 to January 2024. The study focused on the incidence of severe hypoxemia, defined as a drop in oxygen saturation below 90%. Sedation protocols, involving a combination of Fentanyl, Midazolam, and Propofol were personalized based on the endoscopist’s discretion. Data were collected from electronic health records, covering patient demographics, clinical scores, sedation and procedure details, and outcomes. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression, were used to examine the association between procedure duration and hypoxemia, adjusting for various patient and procedural factors. Results: We initially collected records of 26,569 patients who underwent colonoscopy, excluding 5045 due to incomplete data, resulting in a final cohort of 21,524 patients. Procedures under 20 min comprised 48.9% of the total, while those lasting 20–40 min made up 50.7%. Only 8.5% lasted 40–60 min, and 2.9% exceeded 60 min. Longer procedures correlated with higher hypoxemia risk: 17.3% for <20 min, 24.2% for 20–40 min, 32.4% for 40–60 min, and 36.1% for ≥60 min. Patients aged 60–80 and ≥80 had increased hypoxemia odds (aOR 1.1, 95% CI 1.0–1.2 and aOR 1.2, 95% CI 1.0–1.4, respectively). Procedure durations of 20–40 min, 40–60 min, and over 60 min had aORs of 1.5 (95% CI 1.4–1.6), 2.1 (95% CI 1.9–2.4), and 2.4 (95% CI 2.0–3.0), respectively. Conclusions: The duration of colonoscopy procedures significantly impacts the risk of severe hypoxemia, with longer durations associated with higher risks. This study underscores the importance of optimizing procedural efficiency and tailoring sedation protocols to individual patient risk profiles to enhance the safety of colonoscopy. Further research is needed to develop strategies that minimize procedure duration without compromising the quality of care, thereby reducing the risk of hypoxemia and improving patient safety.
Hybrid Fabrication of Zirconia Parts with Smooth Surface Texture and Tight Tolerances
Authors: Spitaels Laurent , Dambly Valentin , Beobide Otaegi Aiora , Bossu Julien , Delmotte Cathy , Martic Gregory , Juste Enrique , Carrus Raoul , Arrazola Pedro-José , Petit Fabrice , Rivière-Lorphèvre Edouard , Ducobu François
Published: June 2024

The conventional manufacturing chain for technical ceramics is too expensive for the production of small series or unique parts with complex designs. Hybrid machines that combine additive and subtractive processes can be an interesting solution to overcome this technology lock-in. However, despite the great interest in hybrid machines for metallic parts, there is a lack of data in the literature when it comes to ceramics. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to closing this gap. It is the first to evaluate the achievable geometrical tolerances according to ISO 2768-2 as well as the surface textures of composite zirconia parts shaped sequentially by pellet additive manufacturing (PAM, from ceramic injection molding feedstock) and finish milling. The green parts were then debinded and sintered to analyze the influence of these steps. Compared to the initial green parts, the sintered parts exhibited shiny and smooth surfaces with sharp edges. Flatness, parallelism and perpendicularity all achieved an H (fine) class, while the surface textures were significantly improved, resulting in arithmetic roughness (Ra) below 1.6 µm.
Trawling-Induced Sedimentary Dynamics in Submarine Canyons of the Gulf of Palermo (SW Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Arjona-Camas Marta , Lo Iacono Claudio , Puig Pere , Russo Tommaso , Palanques Albert
Published: June 2024

Bottom trawling in submarine canyons can affect their sedimentary dynamics, but studies addressing this topic are still scarce. In the Gulf of Palermo (NW Sicily, SW Mediterranean Sea), bottom trawling occurs on the continental slope, but principally concentrates within Oreto Canyon. Hydrographic profiles and time series data of temperature, turbidity, and currents obtained by a CTD probe and by moored instruments, respectively, revealed increased turbidity values and the presence of bottom and intermediate nepheloid layers coinciding with periods of bottom trawling activity. The delay between the onset of trawling activities along the Oreto canyon axis and the increase in water turbidity at the mooring location indicate that trawling resuspended particles are progressively advected down-canyon by hydrodynamic processes. Topographic waves and near-inertial currents seem to contribute to the sediment transport of resuspended particles as bottom and intermediate nepheloid layers. Results presented in this paper highlight the complex relationship between hydrodynamic processes and sediment resuspension by trawling in submarine canyons.
Lift–Drag Performance of a New Unmanned Aerial Vehicle in Different Media and Ground Effect
Authors: Wang Wenhua , Wang Lijian , Zhang Kedong , Huang Yi
Published: June 2024

Water–air trans-media unmanned vehicle is a kind of aircraft, which can freely fly in the air, sail in the water and pass through free surface. For trans-media aircrafts, the development process from air–surface to air–underwater and from submarine-launched drive to autonomous drive is investigated. By analyzing the characteristic of manta ray, flying fish and existing aircraft, this paper proposes a new water–air trans-media unmanned vehicle with flat dish-airfoil-shaped main body and telescopic NACA-type wing. Then the numerical method to calculate the lift and drag forces is established and validated by the results of classic NACA cases. On this basis, the flow field around the new vehicle is numerically simulated, and its lift–drag performances in different media (air and water) and ground effect are analyzed, comparing it with a model inspired by the Blackwing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The findings illustrate the superior performance of the new vehicle in terms of lift and drag forces, offering an innovative design framework for water–air trans-media UAV applications.
Trichoderma and Mycosynthesis of Metal Nanoparticles: Role of Their Secondary Metabolites
Authors: Herrera Pérez Guillermo M. , Castellano Laura E. , Ramírez Valdespino Claudia A.
Published: June 2024

Nanocompounds are widely used in many fields such as environmental, medicine, or agriculture. Nowadays, these nanocompounds are mainly synthesized by chemical methods, causing environmental pollution and potential health problems. Thus, microorganisms have been investigated as potential nanoparticle green biosynthesizers. The main research is focused on the synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) using algae, yeast, bacteria, and fungi. Among them, fungi have been the most used, due to their simple and effective mycosynthesis. Fungi as well as other organisms involved in green synthesis of NPs use their secondary metabolites (SMs) to mediate and catalyze the reactions to produce metal nanoparticles (MNPs) as well as being able to act as capping agents producing different physicochemical characteristics and biological activities in the MNPs. Among the various fungi used for mycosynthesis are Trichoderma species, which mediate the production of Ag, Cu, CuO, Zn, ZnO, and other MNPs. Here, we review the main SMs from Trichoderma that have been reported or suggested to contribute to synthesize or act as capping agents and their applications, as well as present the main challenges faced by this type of synthesis.
Electrical Impedance Tomography, Artificial Intelligence, and Variable Ventilation: Transforming Respiratory Monitoring and Treatment in Critical Care
Authors: Cappellini Iacopo , Campagnola Lorenzo , Consales Guglielmo
Published: June 2024

Background: Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT), combined with variable ventilation strategies and Artificial Intelligence (AI), is poised to revolutionize critical care by transitioning from reactive to predictive approaches. This integration aims to enhance patient outcomes through personalized interventions and real-time monitoring. Methods: this narrative review explores the principles and applications of EIT, variable ventilation, and AI in critical care. EIT impedance sensing creates dynamic images of internal physiology, aiding the management of conditions like Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Variable ventilation mimics natural breathing variability to improve lung function and minimize ventilator-induced lung injury. AI enhances EIT through advanced image reconstruction techniques, neural networks, and digital twin technology, offering more accurate diagnostics and tailored therapeutic interventions. Conclusions: the confluence of EIT, variable ventilation, and AI represents a significant advancement in critical care, enabling a predictive, personalized approach. EIT provides real-time insights into lung function, guiding precise ventilation adjustments and therapeutic interventions. AI integration enhances EIT diagnostic capabilities, facilitating the development of personalized treatment plans. This synergy fosters interdisciplinary collaborations and sets the stage for innovative research, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing the future of critical care.
Using Radiometric and Categorical Change to Create High-Accuracy Maps of Historical Land Cover Change in Watersheds of the Great Lakes Basin
Authors: Poley Andrew F. , Bourgeau-Chavez Laura L. , Graham Jeremy A. , Vander Bilt Dorthea J. L. , Redhuis Dana , Battaglia Michael J. , Kennedy Robert E. , French Nancy H. F.
Published: June 2024

Great Lakes Basin landscapes are undergoing rapid land cover and land use (LCLU) change. The goal for this study was to identify changes in land cover occurring in the Great Lakes Basin over three time periods to provide insights into historical land cover changes occurring on a bi-national watershed scale. To quantify potential impacts of anthropogenic changes on important yet vulnerable Great Lakes Wetland ecosystems, the historical changes in land cover over time are assessed via remote sensing. The goal is to better understand legacy effects on current conditions, including wetland gain and loss and the impacts of upland ecosystems on wetland health and water quality. Three key time periods with respect to Great Lakes water level changes and coastal wetland plant invasions were mapped using Landsat-derived land cover maps: 1985, 1995, and 2010. To address change between the three time periods of interest, we incorporate both radiometric and categorical change analysis and open-source tools available for assessing time series data including LandTrendr and TimeSync. Results include maps of annual land cover transition from 1985 to 1995 and 1995 to 2010 basin-wide and by ecoregion and an assessment of the magnitude and direction of change by land cover type. Basin-wide validated change results show approximately 776,854 ha of land changed from c.1980–1995 and approximately 998,400 ha of land changed from c.1995–2010. Both time periods displayed large net decreases in both deciduous forest and agricultural land and net increases in suburban cover. Change by ecoregion is reviewed in this study with many of the change types in central plains showing change in and out of agriculture and suburban land covers, the mixed wood plain ecoregion consisted of a mixture of agricultural, suburban, and forestry changes, and all top five change types in the mixed wood shield consisted of various stages of the forestry cycle for both time periods. In comparison with previous LCLU change studies, overall change products showed similar trends. The discussion reviews why, while most changes had accuracies better than 84%, accuracies found for change from urban to other classes and from other classes to agriculture were lower due to unique aspects of change in these classes which are not relevant for most change analyses applications. The study found a consistent loss in the deciduous forest area for much of the time studied, which is shown to influence the aquatic nitrogen implicated in the expansion of the invasive plant Phragmites australis in the Great Lakes Basin. This underscores the importance of LCLU maps, which allow for the quantification of historical land change in the watersheds of the Great Lakes where invasive species are expanding.
Study on the Friction Characteristics and Fatigue Life of Carbonitriding-Treated Needle Bearings
Authors: Chen Yong , Pu Xiangrun , Hao Lijie , Li Guangxin , Luo Li
Published: June 2024

Being a key component of the transmission system, the needle bearing’s performance and service life affects the overall service life of mechanical equipment. This study takes needle bearings composed of AISI 52100 steel as the research object and studies the effect of carbonitriding surface strengthening treatment on the bearing friction, wear, and fatigue life. The carbon and nitrogen co-infiltration surface-strengthening method was employed to prepare cylindrical and disc samples. The surface hardness, residual austenite content, microscopic morphology and organization composition, coefficient of friction, and wear scar were studied to analyze the effect on the wear performance of the material. The bearing fatigue wear comparison test was conducted on a test bench to compare the actual fatigue life and surface damage of the needle bearing through conventional martensitic quenching heat treatment and carbonitriding treatment. The results demonstrate that the carbonitriding strengthening method enhances the toughness of the material while improving its surface hardness. It also improves the wear resistance of the needle roller bearings, and the fatigue life of the bearings is significantly improved. In conclusion, carbon and nitrogen co-infiltration treatment is a strengthening method that effectively extends the service life of needle roller bearings, indicating its high practical value.
Comprehensive Neural Cryptanalysis on Block Ciphers Using Different Encryption Methods
Authors: Jeong Ongee , Ahmadzadeh Ezat , Moon Inkyu
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we perform neural cryptanalysis on five block ciphers: Data Encryption Standard (DES), Simplified DES (SDES), Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Simplified AES (SAES), and SPECK. The block ciphers are investigated on three different deep learning-based attacks, Encryption Emulation (EE), Plaintext Recovery (PR), Key Recovery (KR), and Ciphertext Classification (CC) attacks. The attacks attempt to break the block ciphers in various cases, such as different types of plaintexts (i.e., block-sized bit arrays and texts), different numbers of round functions and quantity of training data, different text encryption methods (i.e., Word-based Text Encryption (WTE) and Sentence-based Text Encryption (STE)), and different deep learning model architectures. As a result, the block ciphers can be vulnerable to EE and PR attacks using a large amount of training data, and STE can improve the strength of the block ciphers, unlike WTE, which shows almost the same classification accuracy as the plaintexts, especially in a CC attack. Moreover, especially in the KR attack, the Recurrent Neural Network (RNN)-based deep learning model shows higher average Bit Accuracy Probability than the fully connected-based deep learning model. Furthermore, the RNN-based deep learning model is more suitable than the transformer-based deep learning model in the CC attack. Besides, when the keys are the same as the plaintexts, the KR attack can perfectly break the block ciphers, even if the plaintexts are randomly generated. Additionally, we identify that DES and SPECK32/64 applying two round functions are more vulnerable than those applying the single round function by performing the KR attack with randomly generated keys and randomly generated single plaintext.
Some Numerical Results on Chemotactic Phenomena in Stem Cell Therapy for Cardiac Regeneration
Authors: Andreucci Daniele , Bersani Alberto M. , Bersani Enrico , Caressa Paolo , Dumett Miguel , Leon Trujillo Francisco James , Marconi Silvia , Rubio Obidio , Zarate-Pedrera Yessica E.
Published: June 2024

Biological models for cardiac regeneration and remodeling, along with the effects of cytokines or chemokines during the therapy with mesenchymal stem cells after a myocardial infarction, are of crucial importance for understanding the complex underlying mechanisms. This paper presents a mathematical model composed of three coupled partial differential equations that describes the dynamics of stem cells, nutrients and chemokines, highlighting the fundamental role of the chemokines during the myocardial tissue regeneration process. The system is solved numerically using mimetic difference operators and the MOLE library for MATLAB. The results show the tissue regeneration process in the necrotic part closest to the cell implantation area.
The Intrinsic Characterization of a Fuzzy Consistently Connected Domain
Authors: Zhao Chongyun , Jiang Guanghao
Published: June 2024

The concepts of a fuzzy connected set (fc set) and a fuzzy consistently connected set (fcc set) are introduced on fuzzy posets, along with a discussion of their basic properties. Inspired by some equivalent conditions of crisp connected sets, the characterizations of the fc sets are given, and we also explore fuzzy completeness and fuzzy compactness in addition to defining a new fuzzy way-below relation based on fcc complete sets. Using this relationship as a basis, the fcc domain is also provided and studied, and its equivalent characterizations are obtained. In summary, we develop a method to establish fcc completeness from a continuous poset.
Quantitative Structure–Property Relationship Analysis in Molecular Graphs of Some Anticancer Drugs with Temperature Indices Approach
Authors: Shi Xiaolong , Cai Ruiqi , Ramezani Tousi Jaber , Talebi Ali Asghar
Published: June 2024

The most important application of anticancer drugs in various forms (alkylating agents, hormones agents, and antimetabolites) is the treatment of malignant diseases. Topological indices are widely used in the field of chemical and medical sciences, especially in studying the chemical, biological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of drugs. In this article, the temperature indices in anticancer drugs molecular graphs such as Carmustine, Convolutamine F, Raloxifene, Tambjamine K, and Pterocellin B were calculated and then analyzed based on physical and chemical properties. The analysis was performed by identifying the best regression models based on temperature indices for six physical and chemical features of anticancer drugs. The results indicated that temperature indices were essential topological indices that predict the properties of anticancer drugs, such as boiling point, flash point, enthalpy, molar refractivity, molar volume, and polarizability. It was also observed that the r value of the regression model was more than 0.6, and the p value was less than 0.05.
Novel Ensemble Learning Algorithm for Early Detection of Lower Back Pain Using Spinal Anomalies
Authors: Haider Moin , Hashmi Muhammad Shadab Alam , Raza Ali , Ibrahim Muhammad , Fitriyani Norma Latif , Syafrudin Muhammad , Lee Seung Won
Published: June 2024

Lower back pain (LBP) is a musculoskeletal condition that affects millions of people worldwide and significantly limits their mobility and daily activities. Appropriate ergonomics and exercise are crucial preventive measures that play a vital role in managing and reducing the risk of LBP. Individuals with LBP often exhibit spinal anomalies, which can serve as valuable indicators for early diagnosis. We propose an advanced machine learning methodology for LBP detection that incorporates data balancing and bootstrapping techniques. Leveraging the features associated with spinal anomalies, our method offers a promising approach for the early detection of LBP. Our study utilizes a standard dataset comprising 310 patient records, including spinal anomaly features. We propose an ensemble method called the random forest gradient boosting XGBoost Ensemble (RGXE), which integrates the combined power of the random forest, gradient boosting, and XGBoost methods for LBP detection. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed ensemble method, RGXE Voting, outperforms state-of-the-art methods, achieving a high accuracy of 0.99. We fine-tuned each method and validated its performance using k-fold cross-validation in addition to determining the computational complexity of the methods. This innovative research holds significant potential to revolutionize the early detection of LBP, thereby improving the quality of life.