bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning and Image Processing Techniques for Rice Disease Detection: A Critical Analysis
Authors: Hasan Md. Mehedi , Uddin A F M Shahab , Akhond Mostafijur Rahman , Uddin Md. Jashim , Hossain Md. Alamgir , Hossain Md. Alam
Published: December 2023

Early rice disease detection is vital in preventing damage to agricultural product output and quantity in the agricultural field. Manual observations of rice diseases are tedious, costly, and time-consuming, especially when classifying disease patterns and color while dealing with non-native diseases. Hence, image processing and Machine Learning (ML) techniques are used to detect rice disease early and within a relatively brief time period. This article aims to demonstrate the performance of different ML algorithms in rice disease detection through image processing. We critically examined different techniques, and the outcomes of previous research have been reviewed to compare the performance of rice disease classifications. Performance has been evaluated based on the criteria of feature extraction, clustering, segmentation, noise reduction, and level of accuracy of disease detection techniques. This paper also showcases various algorithms for different datasets in terms of training methods, image preprocessing with clustering and filtering criteria, and testing with reliable outcomes. Through this review, we provide valuable insights into the current state of ML-based approaches for the early detection of rice diseases, and assist future research and improvement. In addition, we discuss several challenges that must be overcome in order to achieve effective identification of rice diseases.
Chem2Side: A Deep Learning Model with Ensemble Augmentation (Conventional + Pix2Pix) for COVID-19 Drug Side-Effects Prediction from Chemical Images
Authors: Arshed Muhammad Asad , Ibrahim Muhammad , Mumtaz Shahzad , Tanveer Muhammad , Ahmed Saeed
Published: December 2023

Drug side effects (DSEs) or adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are a major concern in the healthcare industry, accounting for a significant number of annual deaths in Europe alone. Identifying and predicting DSEs early in the drug development process is crucial to mitigate their impact on public health and reduce the time and costs associated with drug development. Objective: In this study, our primary objective is to predict multiple drug side effects using 2D chemical structures, especially for COVID-19, departing from the conventional approach of relying on 1D chemical structures. We aim to develop a novel model for DSE prediction that leverages the CNN-based transfer learning architecture of ResNet152V2. Motivation: The motivation behind this research stems from the need to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of DSE prediction, enabling the pharmaceutical industry to identify potential drug candidates with fewer adverse effects. By utilizing 2D chemical structures and employing data augmentation techniques, we seek to revolutionize the field of drug side-effect prediction. Novelty: This study introduces several novel aspects. The proposed study is the first of its kind to use 2D chemical structures for predicting drug side effects, departing from the conventional 1D approaches. Secondly, we employ data augmentation with both conventional and diffusion-based models (Pix2Pix), a unique strategy in the field. These innovations set the stage for a more advanced and accurate approach to DSE prediction. Results: Our proposed model, named CHEM2SIDE, achieved an impressive average training accuracy of 0.78. Moreover, the average validation and test accuracy, precision, and recall were all at 0.73. When evaluated for COVID-19 drugs, our model exhibited an accuracy of 0.72, a precision of 0.79, a recall of 0.72, and an F1 score of 0.73. Comparative assessments against established transfer learning and machine learning models (VGG16, MobileNetV2, DenseNet121, and KNN) showcased the exceptional performance of CHEM2SIDE, marking a significant advancement in drug side-effect prediction. Conclusions: Our study introduces a groundbreaking approach to predicting drug side effects by using 2D chemical structures and incorporating data augmentation. The CHEM2SIDE model demonstrates remarkable accuracy and outperforms existing models, offering a promising solution to the challenges posed by DSEs in drug development. This research holds great potential for improving drug safety and reducing the associated time and costs.
Proteomic Analysis of the Midgut Contents of Silkworm in the Pupal Stage
Authors: Wang Qinglang , Yang Lingzhen , Tian Tingting , Sun Yuanyuan , Dong Haonan , Gong Jing , Hou Yong
Published: December 2023

The silkworm Bombyx mori, a lepidopteran insect, possesses an 8–10-day pupal stage, during which significant changes occur in the midgut, where it first condenses into the yellow body, and then undergoes decomposition. To gain insights into this transformation process, proteomics was performed on Bombyx mori midgut contents on day 2 and day 7 after pupation. The results revealed the identification of 771 proteins with more than one unique peptide. An analysis using AgriGO demonstrated that these proteins were predominantly associated with catalytic activity. Among the identified proteins, a considerable number were found to be involved in carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, nucleic acid degradation, and energy support. Additionally, variations in the levels of certain proteases were observed between the midgut contents on day 2 and day 7 after pupation. An in-depth analysis of the two-dimensional electrophoresis of the midgut contents on day 7 after pupation led to the identification of twelve protein spots with potential gelatinolytic activity. Among these, six proteases were identified through mass spectrometry, including the p37k protease, vitellin-degrading protease, chymotrypsin-2, etc. These proteases may be responsible for the digestion of the yellow body during the later stages of pupal development.
Enhancing Airtight Storage with Germinating Cowpea Seeds: Impacts on Insect Mortality, Progeny and Grain Quality
Authors: Lamsal Gunakeshari , Baributsa Dieudonne
Published: December 2023

Millions of smallholder farmers use airtight (hermetic) storage to preserve stored commodities. However, relying on biological agents (i.e., insects) to deplete residual oxygen in airtight containers can occasionally extend the process, potentially resulting in grain damage or nutrient loss. Current oxygen scavengers used to remove this residual oxygen are unavailable and unsuitable on smallholder farms in developing countries. We evaluated the effectiveness of germinating seeds for oxygen depletion. Treatments comprised 10, 20, and 30 germinating cowpea seeds in 2 L jars filled with infested cowpea grains. Insect mortality and grain quality were assessed after 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h. Progeny development was monitored for 49 days post-treatment. The results showed that all germinating seeds depleted oxygen to 5% or below within 48 h. Complete adult mortality was achieved after 72 h for both 20 and 30 germinating seeds and 120 h for 10 germinating seeds. As germinating seeds increased, egg counts decreased. No adults emerged post-treatment after insects were exposed for 96 and 120 h to hypoxia from 30 and 20 germinating seeds, respectively. However, 120 h insect exposure to hypoxia from 10 germinating seeds had negligible progeny development. Moisture content increased slightly in grains exposed to 30 germinating seeds. Germinating seeds are as effective as controlled atmospheres in accelerating insect deaths, but further research is needed for field application and their effects on stored product quality.
Evaluation of Reference Genes for Quantitative Real-Time PCR Analysis in the Bean Bug, Riptortus pedestris (Hemiptera: Alydidae)
Authors: Wang Liuyang , Liu Qingyu , Guo Pei , Gao Zhanlin , Chen Dan , Zhang Tao , Ning Jun
Published: December 2023

Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) is widely accepted as a precise and convenient method for quantitatively analyzing the expression of functional genes. The data normalization strongly depends upon stable reference genes. The bean bug, Riptortus pedestris (Hemiptera: Alydidae), is a significant pest of leguminous crops and broadly distributed across Southeast Asia. In this study, a total of 16 candidate reference genes (RPL32, RPS23, SDHA, UBQ, UCCR, GST, TATA−box, HSP70, GAPDH, RPL7A, SOD, RPS3, Actin, α−tubulin, AK, and EF1) were carefully chosen in R. pedestris, and their expression levels were assessed across various conditions, including different developmental stages, diverse tissues, temperature treatments, adult age, molting time, and mating status. Following this, the stability of these reference genes was evaluated using four algorithms (ΔCt, GeNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper). Ultimately, the comprehensive rankings were determined using the online tool RefFinder. Our results demonstrate that the reference gene for qRT-PCR analysis in R. pedestris is contingent upon the specific experimental conditions. RPL7A and EF1 are optimal reference genes for developmental stages. Furthermore, α−tubulin and EF1 exhibit the most stable expression across various adult tissues. RPL32 and RPL7A exhibit the most stable expression for adult age. For nymph age, RPL32 and SOD display the most stable expression. For temperature conditions, RPS23 and RPL7A were identified as the most suitable for monitoring gene expression. Lastly, we verified the practicability of evaluating expression levels of odorant-binding protein 37 (RpedOBP37) and cytochrome P450 6a2 (RpedCYP6) throughout developmental stages, tissues, and temperature conditions. These findings are a significant addition to the qRT-PCR analysis studies on R. pedestris, serving as a fundamental groundwork for future investigations on stable reference genes in R. pedestris as well as other organisms.
Efficacy of Robot-Assisted Ureteroureterostomy in Patients with Complex Ureteral Stricture after Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy
Authors: Hamamoto Shuzo , Taguchi Kazumi , Kawase Kengo , Unno Rei , Isogai Masahiko , Torii Koei , Iwatsuki Shoichiro , Etani Toshiki , Naiki Taku , Okada Atsushi , Yasui Takahiro
Published: December 2023

Background: Ureteral stricture (US) postureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL) has emerged as a severe complication with the widespread use of laser technology. Furthermore, managing a complex US is challenging. Therefore, this study evaluated the efficacy of robot-assisted ureteroureterostomy (RAUU) in addressing US post-URSL and analyzed the pathology of transected ureteral tissues to identify the risk factors for US. Methods: we conducted a prospective cohort study on patients who underwent RAUU for URSL-induced US from April 2021 to May 2023. Results: A total of 14 patients with a mean age of 49.8 years were included in this study. The mean stricture length on radiography was 22.66 ± 7.38 mm. Nine (64.2%) patients had experienced failure with previous interventions. The overall success rate was 92.9%, both clinically and radiographically, without major complications, at a mean follow-up of 12.8 months. The pathological findings revealed microcalcifications and a loss of ureteral mucosa in 57.1% and 28.6% of patients, respectively. Conclusions: The RAUU technique shows promise as a viable option for US post-URSL in appropriately selected patients despite severe pathological changes in the ureter. Therefore, the migration of microcalcifications to the site of ureteral perforation may be a significant factor contributing to US development.
Autonomic Dysfunction and Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Can Heart Rate Variability Analysis Contribute to a Better Evaluation of the Cardiovascular Profile of a Patient?
Authors: Saramet Elena Esmeralda , Pomȋrleanu Cristina , Maştaleru Alexandra , Oancea Andra , Cojocaru Doina-Clementina , Russu Mara , Negru Robert Daniel , Ancuța Codrina
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease of autoimmune etiology. Increased scientific evidence suggests that immune-mediated inflammatory dis-eases are associated with autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction. Studies proved that autonomic imbalance is correlated with RA evolution and may explain augmented cardiovascular pathology and mortality not attributable to classical risk factors. (2) Methods: 75 patients (25 males, 50 females) with RA were submitted to standard ECG recording and 24 h Holter monitoring. Twenty-five healthy patients were used as controls. Both time (SDNN, SDANN, SDANN Index, RRmed, rMSSD, and pNN50) and frequency domain (TP, VLF, HF, LF and LF/HF) heart rate variability (HRV) parameters were obtained. Parameters were compared to controls, and correlations with the QTc-interval and inflammatory status expressed through the C-reactive protein (CRP) were evaluated. (3) Results: In patients with a CRP > 5 mg/L, HRV parameters were lower compared to controls and to patients with a CRP ≤ 5 mg/L. All HRV parameters generated by Holter monitoring are negatively correlated with CRP levels and QTc values. The number of premature ventricular contractions (PVC) recorded is correlated with SDNN, SDANN, and LF/HF values. (4) Conclusions: Our study supports recent data suggesting that in RA there is an autonomic system dysfunction strongly connected with the inflammatory status of the patient. The autonomic dysfunction can contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular death observed in patients with RA.
Impact of Altered Body Composition on Clinical and Oncological Outcomes in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Guanwu , Otto Carlos C. , Heij Lara R. , Al-Masri Tarick M. , Dahl Edgar , Heise Daniel , Olde Damink Steven W. M. , Luedde Tom , Lang Sven A. , Ulmer Tom F. , Neumann Ulf P. , Bednarsch Jan
Published: December 2023

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is a common primary liver tumor with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Changes in body composition (BC) have been shown to affect the prognosis of various types of tumors. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the correlation between BC and clinical and oncological outcomes in patients with iCCA. All patients with iCCA who had surgery from 2010 to 2022 at our institution were included. We used CT scans and 3D Slicer software to assess BC and conducted logistic regressions as well as Cox regressions and Kaplan–Meier analyses to investigate associations between BC and clinical variables with focus on postoperative complications and oncological outcomes. BC was frequently altered in iCCA (n = 162), with 53.1% of the patients showing obesity, 63.2% sarcopenia, 52.8% myosteatosis, 10.1% visceral obesity, and 15.3% sarcopenic obesity. The multivariate analysis showed no meaningful association between BC and perioperative complications. Myosteatosis was associated with reduced overall survival (OS) in iCCA patients (myosteatosis vs. non-myosteatosis, 7 vs. 18 months, p = 0.016 log rank). Further, the subgroup analysis revealed a notable effect in the subset of R0-resected patients (myosteatosis vs. non-myosteatosis, 18 vs. 32 months, p = 0.025) and patients with nodal metastases (myosteatosis vs. non-myosteatosis, 7 vs. 18 months, p = 0.016). While altered BC is not associated with perioperative outcomes in iCCA, myosteatosis emerges as a prognostic factor for reduced OS in the overall and sub-populations of resected patients.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance as Risk Stratification Tool in Non-Ischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy Referred for Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Therapy—State of Art and Perspectives
Authors: Argentiero Adriana , Carella Maria Cristina , Mandunzio Donato , Greco Giulia , Mushtaq Saima , Baggiano Andrea , Fazzari Fabio , Fusini Laura , Muscogiuri Giuseppe , Basile Paolo , Siena Paola , Soldato Nicolò , Napoli Gianluigi , Santobuono Vincenzo Ezio , Forleo Cinzia , Garrido Eduard Claver , Di Marco Andrea , Pontone Gianluca , Guaricci Andrea Igoren
Published: December 2023

Non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disease characterized by left ventricular dilation and systolic dysfunction. Patients with DCM are at higher risk for ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD). According to current international guidelines, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 35% represents the main indication for prophylactic implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation in patients with DCM. However, LVEF lacks sensitivity and specificity as a risk marker for SCD. It has been seen that the majority of patients with DCM do not actually benefit from the ICD implantation and, on the contrary, that many patients at risk of SCD are not identified as they have preserved or mildly depressed LVEF. Therefore, the use of LVEF as unique decision parameter does not maximize the benefit of ICD therapy. Multiple risk factors used in combination could likely predict SCD risk better than any single risk parameter. Several predictors have been proposed including genetic variants, electric indexes, and volumetric parameters of LV. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) can improve risk stratification thanks to tissue characterization sequences such as LGE sequence, parametric mapping, and feature tracking. This review evaluates the role of CMR as a risk stratification tool in DCM patients referred for ICD.
Special Issue “Clinical Consequences of COVID-19”: Taking a Look at Complexity
Authors: Giordano Giovanni , Alessandri Francesco , Pugliese Francesco
Published: December 2023

The consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection are far from being fully understood or accounted for [...]
Optimizing Orthognathic Surgery: Leveraging the Average Skull as a Dynamic Template for Surgical Simulation and Planning in 30 Patient Cases
Authors: Lin Hsiu-Hsia , Kuo Jyun-Cheng , Lo Lun-Jou , Ho Cheng-Ting
Published: December 2023

Virtual planning has revolutionized orthognathic surgery (OGS), marking a significant advancement in the field. This study aims to showcase the practical application of our established 3D average skull template as a guiding framework for surgical planning, and to share valuable insights from our clinical experience. We enrolled 30 consecutive Taiwanese patients (18 females and 12 males) who underwent two-jaw orthognathic surgery with surgical simulation, utilizing the average skull template for planning. Results indicate the method’s applicability and precision. By adhering to the surgical plan, post-operative outcomes closely aligned with the average skull template, showing negligible deviations of less than 2 mm. Moreover, patients expressed high satisfaction with post-surgery facial changes, with the chin appearance receiving the highest satisfaction scores, while the lowest scores were attributed to nose appearance. Notably, the substantial change in lower jaw position post-mandibular setback surgery contributed to increased satisfaction with the chin position. In conclusion, this study does not seek to replace established surgical planning methods, but underscores that utilizing an average skull as a surgical design template provides a viable, accurate, and efficient option for OGS patients.
Concomitant Immunotherapy and Metastasis-Directed Radiotherapy in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: A Biomarker-Driven, Original, Case-Based Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Pezzicoli Gaetano , Salonne Francesco , Musci Vittoria , Ciciriello Federica , Tommasi Stefania , Lacalamita Rosanna , Zito Alfredo , Allegretta Sara Antonia , Solimando Antonio Giovanni , Rizzo Mimma
Published: December 2023

Metastatic upper tract urothelial carcinoma (mUTUC) has a poor prognosis. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have demonstrated efficacy in patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma. However, data supporting the use of ICIs in patients with mUTUC are limited. A promising synergy between ICI and concomitant radiotherapy (RT) has been reported in patients with mUTUC. Our research involved a case-based investigation and emphasized the successful integration of different specialists’ skills. Observed after partial urethrectomy procedures for muscle-invasive upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC), the radiological detection of lung metastases prompted us to implement cisplatin-based first-line chemotherapy and molecular characterization in the treatment process. We uncovered alterations in the ERBB2 and FGFR3 genes and mismatch repair deficiency at a molecular level. First-line chemotherapy treatment led to a stable disease, and the patient was started on maintenance immunotherapy with Avelumab. Subsequently, an increase in the size of the lung nodules was described, and the patient received radiotherapy for three lung lesions in combination with immunotherapy. After 3 months, a restaging CT scan reported a complete response, which is still ongoing. We discuss the mechanisms driving RT/ICI synergy and the molecular profile of mUTUC as factors that should be considered in therapeutic strategy planning. Molecular insight enhances the originality of our study, providing a nuanced understanding of the genetic landscape of mUTUC and paving the way for targeted therapeutic strategies. The therapeutic armamentarium expansion encourages the design of a multimodal and personalized approach for each mUTUC patient, taking into account tumor heterogeneity and molecular profiling.
Dietary Composition, Angiographic Coronary Disease, and Cardiovascular Outcomes in the WISE Study (Women’s Ischemia Syndrome Evaluation)
Authors: Schwartz Brandon H. , Choi So Yung , Mathews Anne , Aggarwal Monica , Handberg Eileen M. , Pepine Carl J. , Rogers William , Reis Steven , Cook-Wiens Galen , Merz C. Noel Bairey , Wei Janet
Published: December 2023

Background: Studies relating diet to angiographic coronary artery disease (CAD) and subsequent major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in women are limited. Information on diet was collected in the Women’s Ischemia Syndrome Evaluation (WISE), a prospective cohort study of symptomatic women referred for coronary angiography to evaluate suspected ischemic heart disease. Methods: A consecutive subgroup (n = 201 of 936) of enrolled women completed the modified Block food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Data on outcomes were collected and adjudicated after 8-year follow-up. A set of logistic regression models were fitted for non-obstructive versus obstructive coronary stenosis (<50% versus ≥50%). Cox proportional hazard regression models were fitted for outcomes, with each dietary composition variable adjusted for the degree of coronary stenosis. Results: At baseline, the subgroup cohort was 58 ± 12 years old with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 ± 7 kg/m2. An increased proportion of calories consumed from protein was associated with higher levels of baseline obstructive coronary stenosis. Those individuals who ate a higher amount of protein, carotene, and servings of vegetables and meat, however, were each associated with lower subsequent adverse outcomes, respectively. Conclusions: Among women undergoing coronary angiography for suspected CAD, a higher percentage of protein intake was associated with higher baseline stenosis severity; however, the amount of protein intake, vegetable, meat, and carotene intake, was conversely associated with subsequent lower adverse cardiovascular outcome risk.
Correlation between Topographic Vessel Density and Retinal Thickness Changes in Patients with Diabetic Macular Edema Treated with Anti-VEGF Therapy: Is It a Suitable OCTA Biomarker?
Authors: Santamaría Juan , Caminal José María , Cobos Estefanía , Biarnes Marc , Rodriguez-Leor Ramon , Morwani Rahul , García-Mendieta Manel , Lorenzo Daniel , García-Bru Pere , Arias Luis
Published: December 2023

The objective of this study was to determine the correlation between topographic vessel density (VD) and retinal thickness (RT) reductions induced by vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors (anti-VEGF) in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). This was a prospective, interventional case series. VD and RT measurements were separately taken in four parafoveal subfields at baseline and after six months of treatment. This correlation was statistically assessed using Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient after adjustment for multiple comparisons. The study included a total of 48 eyes in the final analysis. Mean VD decreased from baseline to month 6 (from 45.2 (±3.5) to 44.6% (±3.2) in the superficial capillary plexus and from 50 (±3.3) to 49% (±3.9) in the deep capillary plexus). Statistically significant reductions in RT were observed in all ETDRS sectors (p < 0.0001). No significant association was found between RT and VD, even when analyzing responders and non-responders separately. After six months of anti-VEGF treatment, no significant correlation was observed between the topographic VD and RT values. These findings suggest that reductions in VD values may not solely result from a reduction in microaneurysms, also being affected by the repositioning of displaced vessels due to edema and a reduction in their caliber. Therefore, VD changes may not be a suitable indirect OCTA biomarker of microaneurysm turnover and treatment response.
Study on the Spatial and Temporal Evolution of Regional Green Space Morphology Outside Built-Up Areas based on the Google Earth Engine and Biophysical Component Modeling
Authors: Ji Yiwen , Zhang Lang , Gu Xinchen , Zhang Lei
Published: December 2023

The spatial pattern of regional green space is an important dimension to describe and quantitatively express the characteristics of regional green spaces outside the built-up area of a city. With the expansion of urban and rural construction land, regional green space has been continuously encroached upon. This leads to a decline in regional ecological well-being and the loss of biodiversity. Based on the remote sensing data of Shanghai city from 2000 to 2020, we quantitatively studied the spatial morphological change characteristics of regional green space outside the built-up area of Shanghai city. Firstly, with the help of the GEE platform, the optimal decoding accuracy classification method was selected through machine learning (random forest, support vector machine, classification regression tree); then, based on the biophysical component (BCI) and CA binarization, the built-up area ranges for up to five time nodes were obtained; finally, through GIS spatial data analysis and processing technology, the regional green space dynamic data of Shanghai for five time nodes were extracted. Based on the above data, an analysis index system was constructed to quantitatively analyze the spatial morphology characteristics of the regional green space outside the built-up area of Shanghai. The results show that (1) the area of regional green space outside the built-up area of Shanghai had a fluctuating growth pattern of “decreasing and then increasing”. The arable land and water areas in Shanghai decreased, and the woodland area increased steadily, while the wetland and grassland areas showed a trend of first decreasing and then increasing. (2) The regional green patch fragmentation shows a fluctuating development trend of increasing, decreasing, and increasing. (3) The change in the spatial center of gravity of the regional green space in Shanghai had a high degree of consistency with the overall green space change. The center of gravity of the grasslands in the regional green space moved substantially to the northwest, while the center of gravity of the other types remained basically unchanged. This study reveals the spatial morphology characteristics of regional green spaces and provides a research method to study the dynamic changes in regional ecological resources. The results of this study can provide a scientific basis for the identification, protection, and development of regional ecological resources.
Location Selection of Urban Rooftop Greenhouses in Seoul Based on AHP and GIS
Authors: Kil Sung-Ho , Park Hye-Mi , Park Minkyu , Kim Ye Inn , Lee Eunseok
Published: December 2023

With the recent increase in food demand, urban agriculture has gained attention as a way of increasing food self-sufficiency and providing recreational spaces in cities. In this study, the suitability of rooftop greenhouses (RGs), a type of urban agriculture, was analyzed by combining the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and geographic information systems (GIS) in Seoul, the capital city of Korea. To achieve this, we derived location suitability factors through expert consultations and calculated the weights of each factor through AHP. After building the spatial data according to these factors, they were weighted and summed then scaled to a score of 0–100. The highest weight of the RG location factors was for benefit (0.1782), followed by officially assessed land prices (0.0913) and supermarket density (0.0802). The weights of supermarket density and accessibility were high because they are considered the main distribution channels. When analyzing the location of RGs by linking these results with the spatial data according to factor, we revealed that Gangseo-gu (a district of Seoul) had relatively high location suitability scores. This trend was determined to be caused by the rather low officially assessed land price, high supermarket density, and productive population. This result could prove useful when selecting the approximate locations of RGs in Seoul and for promoting food self-sufficiency in cities.
Transspinal Direct Current Electrical Stimulation Selectively Affects the Excitability of the Corticospinal System, Depending on the Intensity but Not Motor Skills
Authors: Popyvanova Alena , Pomelova Ekaterina , Bredikhin Dmitry , Koriakina Maria , Shestakova Anna , Blagovechtchenski Evgeny
Published: December 2023

Transspinal direct current stimulation (tsDCS) is a non-invasive technique used to modulate spinal cord activity. However, the effects and mechanisms of this stimulation are currently not comprehensively known. This study aimed to estimate the effect of different intensities of tsDCS applied at the level of cervical enlargement of the spinal cord (C7-Th1 segments) on the excitability of the corticospinal system (CSS) and the correction of motor skills in healthy subjects. The effect of tsDCS was estimated by the motor-evoked potentials (MEP) elicited by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in the primary motor cortex (M1). The study involved 54 healthy adults aged 22 ± 4 years. The application of 11 min anodal tsDCS at the level of the cervical spine C7-Th1 with a current intensity of 2.5 mA did not change the MEP amplitude of the upper limb muscles, in contrast to the data that we previously obtained with a current intensity of 1.5 mA. We also found no difference in the effect of 2.5 mA stimulation on motor skill correction in healthy subjects in the nine-hole peg test (9-HPT) and the serial reaction time task (SRT) as with 1.5 mA stimulation. Our data show that an increase in the intensity of stimulation does not lead to an increase in the effects but rather reduces the effects of stimulation. These results provide information about the optimally appropriate stimulation current intensities to induce CSS excitability and the ability of tsDCS to influence motor skills in healthy adults.
SARS-CoV-2 in Animal Companions: A Serosurvey in Three Regions of Southern Italy
Authors: Bianco Angelica , Bortolami Alessio , Miccolupo Angela , Sottili Roldano , Ghergo Paola , Castellana Stefano , Del Sambro Laura , Capozzi Loredana , Pagliari Matteo , Bonfante Francesco , Ridolfi Donato , Bulzacchelli Carmela , Giannico Anna , Parisi Antonio
Published: December 2023

Several animal species have been found to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The occurrence of infection in dogs and cats living in close contact with owners deserves particular attention from public health authorities in a One Health approach. In this study, we conducted serological screening to identify SARS-CoV-2 exposure in the sera from dogs and cats in three regions of southern Italy sampled during the years 2021 and 2022. We collected 100 serum samples in 2021 (89 from dogs and 11 from cats) and 640 in 2022 (577 from dogs and 63 from cats). Overall, the ELISA positivity rate was found to be 2.7% (20/740), with higher seroprevalence in dogs. Serum neutralization tests confirmed positivity only in two samples collected from dogs, and the assays, performed with serologically distinct SARS-CoV-2 variants, showed variant-specific positivity. This paper shows that monitoring SARS-CoV-2 exposure in animals might be affected by the viral antigenic evolution, which requires continuous updates to the serological tests used. Serological surveys are useful in understanding the true extent of exposure occurring in specific animal populations, not suffering the same limitations as molecular tests, and could help in identifying the infecting virus if tests able to characterize the immune response are used. The use of variant-specific validated serological methods should always be considered in serosurvey studies in order to determine the real impact of emerging variants on animal populations and its implications for veterinary and human health, as well as to identify potential reservoirs of the virus and its evolutionary changes.
Heterotopic Ossification around the Elbow Revisited
Authors: Kontokostopoulos Aristeidis-Panagiotis , Gkiatas Ioannis , Vasileiadis George I. , Flevas Dimitrios , Tsirigkakis Spyridon E. , Kosmas Dimitrios , Kostas-Agnantis Ioannis , Pakos Emilios , Gelalis Ioannis , Korompilias Anastasios
Published: December 2023

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is the process of ectopic bone formation in the periarticular soft tissues and is usually formed in the elbow, hip and knee joint as a complication of trauma, burns, brain injury or surgical procedures. The development of HO around the elbow joint can cause a severe limitation of range of motion (ROM) and may affect daily activities of the patient. Treatment of ectopic bone formation around the elbow is a challenge for many surgeons. Non-operative treatment usually fails to restore the ROM of the elbow joint; thus, surgery is necessary to restore the function of the joint. In the past, many surgeons suggested that a delayed excision of HO, until maturation of the ectopic bone, is the best option in order to avoid any possible recurrence. However, many authors now suggest that this delay may lead to complications such as muscular atrophy and formation of soft tissue contractures that can cause a greater impairment of elbow function; thus, early excision is a better option and can better restore the elbow ROM. We performed a literature research of articles that investigated which is the best time of HO excision and we also evaluated if the tethering effect of HO can lead to a greater impairment of the elbow function. We found numerous studies suggesting that a limitation in ROM of the elbow can appear from the tethering of the ectopic bone formation and not only from primary HO. Concerning the HO excision, there were no significant differences between patients who underwent delayed and early excision, concerning the recurrence rate of HO around the elbow. Patients who underwent early excision had better restoration of elbow ROM; thus, early excision, combined with a rehabilitation program, is reported to be the best option for these patients.
A Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory Autoencoder Transformer for Remaining Useful Life Estimation
Authors: Fan Zhengyang , Li Wanru , Chang Kuo-Chu
Published: December 2023

Estimating the remaining useful life (RUL) of aircraft engines holds a pivotal role in enhancing safety, optimizing operations, and promoting sustainability, thus being a crucial component of modern aviation management. Precise RUL predictions offer valuable insights into an engine’s condition, enabling informed decisions regarding maintenance and crew scheduling. In this context, we propose a novel RUL prediction approach in this paper, harnessing the power of bi-directional LSTM and Transformer architectures, known for their success in sequence modeling, such as natural languages. We adopt the encoder part of the full Transformer as the backbone of our framework, integrating it with a self-supervised denoising autoencoder that utilizes bidirectional LSTM for improved feature extraction. Within our framework, a sequence of multivariate time-series sensor measurements serves as the input, initially processed by the bidirectional LSTM autoencoder to extract essential features. Subsequently, these feature values are fed into our Transformer encoder backbone for RUL prediction. Notably, our approach simultaneously trains the autoencoder and Transformer encoder, different from the naive sequential training method. Through a series of numerical experiments carried out on the C-MAPSS datasets, we demonstrate that the efficacy of our proposed models either surpasses or stands on par with that of other existing methods.
Feasibility of Forward Osmosis to Recover Textile Dyes Using Single Salts and Multicomponent Draw Solutions
Authors: Cifuentes-Cabezas Magdalena , García-Suarez Laura , Soler-Cabezas José Luis , Cuartas-Uribe Beatriz , Álvarez-Blanco Silvia , Mendoza-Roca José Antonio , Vincent-Vela María-Cinta
Published: December 2023

The textile industry generates large volumes of water characterized mainly by an intense color coming from dyes that are difficult to process due to their synthetic base and the presence of aromatic components. Due to the stricter regulation on the discharge of these effluents, in order to reduce dye waste before discharge into natural channels, alternatives are being sought to manage this wastewater. In this work, the concentration of dyes in simulated wastewater from the textile industry was studied by forward osmosis (with a cellulose triacetate CTA membrane), with the aim of concentrating the dye for its future recovery and reincorporation into the production process. Two dyes of different nature were evaluated to study the efficiency of the proposed process, using NaCl and reverse osmosis brine from a model seawater desalination solution as extraction solutions. It was observed that dye type (reactive or direct) and their charge influence the color rejection with the forward osmosis membrane used. It was able to concentrate the dyes in the feed solution up to approximately 55% with the reverse osmosis brine from the model seawater desalination solution. Finally, the results demonstrate that the FO process is a promising option for concentrating dyes present in wastewater from the textile industry in order to reuse them in the dyeing process.
Formation of Complexes of f-Elements with Electron-Withdrawing N-Heterocyclic Diamides: Extraction and Solution Photophysics
Authors: Borisova Nataliya E. , Kharcheva Anastasiia V. , Shmelkov Kirill D. , Gerasimov Mikhail A. , Evsiunina Mariia V. , Matveev Petr I. , Ivanov Alexey V. , Sokolovskaya Yulia G. , Patsaeva Svetlana V.
Published: December 2023

To examine the scope of the abnormal aryl strengthening effect (an increase in the extraction of metal ions when an aromatic substituent is introduced into the amide group) on f-metal extraction, a series of tetradentate diamide-type extragents bearing electron-withdrawing pyridine rings in amide moieties of the molecules were tested. The solvent extraction of Am(III)/Eu(III) pairs was investigated under various conditions, the solution chemistry of the lanthanide-extragents systems was studied, and the bonding constants were calculated for complexes of Eu(III) and Tb(III) ions with diamides. The photophysical properties of chemically synthesized ligand/metal (LM) complexes with various LM compositions were additionally studied in depth. The replacement of a phenyl ring by a pyridine one led to a critical reduction in metal affinity, showing the major contribution of electronic nature to the abnormal aryl strengthening effect. However, the pyridine group in the amide side chain provided additional coordination positions for metal ion binding; corresponding complexes with LM2 composition were detected in the system and their stability was calculated. Due to the low stability of the corresponding LM2 complexes, chemical synthesis of the complexes led to the formation of only one metal-containing species with LM composition. The luminescence spectra of europium and terbium complexes of the LM composition were studied. Differences were discovered in the luminescence excitation spectra of europium and terbium complexes with the same ligand. The luminescence quantum yields and luminescence lifetimes of solutions of europium and terbium complexes were determined.
How Supplementation with SOD-Rich Plant Extract, Combined with Gliadin, Can Affect Oxidative Stress Markers and Zonulin Levels in Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress
Authors: Dudašova Petrovičova Olina , Stanković Ivan , Ðordević Brižita , Dopsaj Violeta , Milinković Neda , Dopsaj Milivoj
Published: December 2023

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to investigate the influence of supplementation with a superoxide dismutase (SOD)-rich plant extract on markers of oxidative stress, zonulin levels and the performance of elite athletes. Participants were 30 international-level rowers, divided into an experimental group (n = 15) and a control group (n = 15). The rowers performed a maximal effort incremental test on a rowing ergometer at the beginning and at the end of the study. Markers of oxidative stress (total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), malondialdehyde (MDA), sulfhydryl (SH) groups, bilirubin, uric acid, albumin and zonulin) were determined in serum. A lower TOS (p = 0.010) and OSI (p = 0.004), a lower MDA (p = 0.001) and a higher level of SH groups (p = 0.031) were observed in the experimental group after supplementation. Physical performance was evaluated through metabolic efficiency, taking lactate levels and power output on the ergometer into account. After 6 weeks of supplementation, the relative increase in metabolic efficiency at a 4 mmol/L lactate concentration and maximal effort was significantly higher in the experimental group (p = 0.004 and p = 0.015, respectively). These results suggest that supplementation with a SOD-rich extract promotes lower oxidative stress, better antioxidant protection and, consequently, the better work performance of athletes.
Explainable Artificial Intelligence Paves the Way in Precision Diagnostics and Biomarker Discovery for the Subclass of Diabetic Retinopathy in Type 2 Diabetics
Authors: Yagin Fatma Hilal , Yasar Seyma , Gormez Yasin , Yagin Burak , Pinar Abdulvahap , Alkhateeb Abedalrhman , Ardigò Luca Paolo
Published: December 2023

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a common ocular microvascular complication of diabetes, contributes significantly to diabetes-related vision loss. This study addresses the imperative need for early diagnosis of DR and precise treatment strategies based on the explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) framework. The study integrated clinical, biochemical, and metabolomic biomarkers associated with the following classes: non-DR (NDR), non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients. To create machine learning (ML) models, 10% of the data was divided into validation sets and 90% into discovery sets. The validation dataset was used for hyperparameter optimization and feature selection stages, while the discovery dataset was used to measure the performance of the models. A 10-fold cross-validation technique was used to evaluate the performance of ML models. Biomarker discovery was performed using minimum redundancy maximum relevance (mRMR), Boruta, and explainable boosting machine (EBM). The predictive proposed framework compares the results of eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), natural gradient boosting for probabilistic prediction (NGBoost), and EBM models in determining the DR subclass. The hyperparameters of the models were optimized using Bayesian optimization. Combining EBM feature selection with XGBoost, the optimal model achieved (91.25 ± 1.88) % accuracy, (89.33 ± 1.80) % precision, (91.24 ± 1.67) % recall, (89.37 ± 1.52) % F1-Score, and (97.00 ± 0.25) % the area under the ROC curve (AUROC). According to the EBM explanation, the six most important biomarkers in determining the course of DR were tryptophan (Trp), phosphatidylcholine diacyl C42:2 (PC.aa.C42.2), butyrylcarnitine (C4), tyrosine (Tyr), hexadecanoyl carnitine (C16) and total dimethylarginine (DMA). The identified biomarkers may provide a better understanding of the progression of DR, paving the way for more precise and cost-effective diagnostic and treatment strategies.
Dry Reforming of Methane over Li-Doped Ni/TiO2 Catalysts: Effect of Support Basicity
Authors: Pérez-Madrigal Vicente , Ríos-Valdovinos Edna , Rojas-García Elizabeth , Valenzuela Miguel A. , Pola-Albores Francisco
Published: December 2023

In this research, we investigate the impact of Li doping on a TiO2 support, synthesized through the sol-gel method, with a focus on varying the aging time. Our objective is to elucidate how aging duration and doping influence the surface basicity, thereby mitigating carbon formation and amplifying the catalytic efficacy of Ni-loaded catalysts (15 wt.%). Essential characterization techniques encompass X-ray diffraction, H2-TPR, FE-SEM, N2-physisorption, DLS, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopies. Our findings reveal that extended aging periods promote the development of a basic character, attributable to oxygen defects within TiO2. This inherent trait bears significant implications for catalyst performance, stability, and carbon formation during the reaction. Remarkably, the catalyst with the highest catalytic activity and stability boasts an 85% relative basicity, a property also induced by incorporating lithium into the TiO2 support.
Design Optimization Method for Large-Size Sidewall-Driven Micromixer to Generate Powerful Swirling Flow
Authors: Yamamoto Daichi , Takayama Toshio
Published: December 2023

Microfluidic devices, which miniaturize cell culture and chemical experiments from lab-scale to microchip dimensions, have gained significant attention in recent years. Extensive research has been conducted on microfluidic mixers, which facilitate the mixing and agitation of chemicals. The “Sidewall-Driven Micromixer” that we are currently developing employs a unique mechanism; it induces a swirling flow within the main chamber by vibrating the silicone wall situated between the main and driving chambers using pressure fluctuations. In an earlier study, we found that Sidewall-Driven Micromixers of a size suitable for small cells could indeed produce this swirling flow. Furthermore, we successfully established concentration gradients within each mixer. However, when attempting to upscale the mixer while maintaining conventional proportions to accommodate larger cell aggregates such as spheroids, the desired swirling flow was not achieved. To address this challenge, we made adjustments to the wall dimensions, aiming to amplify wall deformation and thereby enhance the mixer’s driving force. Concurrently, we modified the mixer’s shape to ensure that the increased wall deformation would not hinder the fluid flow. These alterations not only improved the mixer’s performance but also provided valuable insights for positioning the mixer’s neck channel, considering the extent of wall deformation.