bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elliptical Orbit Design Based on Air-Breathing Electric Propulsion Technology in Very-Low Earth Orbit Space
Authors: Yue Yuxian , Geng Jinyue , Feng Guanhua , Li Wenhao
Published: October 2023

Very-low Earth orbit (VLEO) space below 200 km is essential for high-quality communications and near-Earth space environment detection. Due to the significant atmospheric drag, orbital maintenance is required for spacecraft staying here. Based on air-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) technology, this paper analyzed the orbital boundary conditions of the spacecraft under the constraints of parameters including slenderness ratio, thrust-to-power ratio, drag coefficient, and effective specific impulse. The energy balance is the key constraint for low VLEO orbits, which is determined by the drag coefficient, slenderness ratio, and thrust-to-power ratio. Under the existing technical conditions, the lowest circular orbit (along the terminator) is about 170 km. An elliptical orbital flight scheme is also analyzed to reach a 150 km perigee. A half-period control method was proposed based on the on–off control method for the elliptical orbit, which could enable the spacecraft to maintain a stable 150–250 km elliptical orbit.
AI-Driven Segmentation and Automated Analysis of the Whole Sagittal Spine from X-ray Images for Spinopelvic Parameter Evaluation
Authors: Song Sang-Youn , Seo Min-Seok , Kim Chang-Won , Kim Yun-Heung , Yoo Byeong-Cheol , Choi Hyun-Ju , Seo Sung-Hyo , Kang Sung-Wook , Song Myung-Geun , Nam Dae-Cheol , Kim Dong-Hee
Published: October 2023

Spinal–pelvic parameters are utilized in orthopedics for assessing patients’ curvature and body alignment in diagnosing, treating, and planning surgeries for spinal and pelvic disorders. Segmenting and autodetecting the whole spine from lateral radiographs is challenging. Recent efforts have employed deep learning techniques to automate the segmentation and analysis of whole-spine lateral radiographs. This study aims to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-based deep learning approach for the automated segmentation, alignment, and measurement of spinal–pelvic parameters through whole-spine lateral radiographs. We conducted the study on 932 annotated images from various spinal pathologies. Using a deep learning (DL) model, anatomical landmarks of the cervical, thoracic, lumbar vertebrae, sacrum, and femoral head were automatically distinguished. The algorithm was designed to measure 13 radiographic alignment and spinal–pelvic parameters from the whole-spine lateral radiographs. Training data comprised 748 digital radiographic (DR) X-ray images, while 90 X-ray images were used for validation. Another set of 90 X-ray images served as the test set. Inter-rater reliability between orthopedic spine specialists, orthopedic residents, and the DL model was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The segmentation accuracy for anatomical landmarks was within an acceptable range (median error: 1.7–4.1 mm). The inter-rater reliability between the proposed DL model and individual experts was fair to good for measurements of spinal curvature characteristics (all ICC values > 0.62). The developed DL model in this study demonstrated good levels of inter-rater reliability for predicting anatomical landmark positions and measuring radiographic alignment and spinal–pelvic parameters. Automated segmentation and analysis of whole-spine lateral radiographs using deep learning offers a promising tool to enhance accuracy and efficiency in orthopedic diagnostics and treatments.
Immunological Phenotyping of Mice with a Point Mutation in Cdk4
Authors: Yabas Mehmet , Hoyne Gerard F.
Published: October 2023

Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) play a crucial role in regulation of the mammalian cell cycle. CDK4 and CDK6 control the G1/S restriction checkpoint through their ability to associate with cyclin D proteins in response to growth factor signals. CDK4 deficiency in mice gives rise to a range of endocrine-specific phenotypes including diabetes, infertility, dwarfism, and atrophy of the anterior pituitary. Although CDK6 deficiency can cause thymic atrophy due to a block in the double-negative (DN) to double-positive (DP) stage of T cell development, there are no overt defects in immune cell development reported for CDK4-deficient mice. Here, we examined the impact of a novel N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea-induced point mutation in the gene encoding CDK4 on immune cell development. Mutant mice (Cdk4wnch/wnch) showed normal development and differentiation of major immune cell subsets in the thymus and spleen. Moreover, T cells from Cdk4wnch/wnch mice exhibited normal cytokine production in response to in vitro stimulation. However, analysis of the mixed bone marrow chimeras revealed that Cdk4wnch/wnch-derived T cell subsets and NK cells are at a competitive disadvantage compared to Cdk4+/+-derived cells in the thymus and periphery of recipients. These results suggest a possible role for the CDK4wnch mutation in the development of some immune cells, which only becomes apparent when the Cdk4wnch/wnch mutant cells are in direct competition with wild-type immune cells in the mixed bone marrow chimera.
Smartphone Applications in Dentistry: A Scoping Review
Authors: Pascadopoli Maurizio , Zampetti Paolo , Nardi Maria Gloria , Pellegrini Matteo , Scribante Andrea
Published: October 2023

This scoping review aims to investigate the latest literature concerning the use of smartphone applications (apps) in the prevention, management, and monitoring of oral diseases. Smartphone applications are software programs that are designed to run on smartphones. Nowadays, smartphones are regularly used by people of all ages, and mobile health apps (MHAs) represent an important means of spreading information related to oral health, which is the state of the mouth and teeth, including the gums and other tissues. Several apps have been designed to promote prevention, diagnosis, and therapeutic adherence monitoring. This scoping review considered randomized clinical trials, cross-sectional studies, before–after (pre–post) studies with no control group, and observational studies. Once the inclusion and exclusion criteria had been defined, a preliminary confined search was performed on PubMed and Scopus; key terms from the collected articles were selected to design a search strategy, and then a search of all the included articles’ reference lists was run for further research. Studies were excluded if they did not fulfill the inclusion criteria. The preferred reporting items for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) consensus was followed. The risk of bias was evaluated by providing a qualitative analysis of the clinical studies via the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Quality Assessment of Controlled Intervention Studies, Observational Cohort Studies, and Cross-Sectional Studies (NHLBI, NIH). A total of 21 studies were included in this review. As it is clear from the studies selected, the literature indicates that MHAs are effective in improving oral hygiene in adolescents and children and reducing the dental plaque index, including in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. MHAs are also able to reduce the symptoms of patients affected by obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and improve the swallowing-related quality of life of elderly patients. MHAs are furthermore recommended to decrease dental anxiety among patients, both during dental procedures and the post-operative period. MHAs are useful to spread knowledge about traumatic dental injuries among non-oral health professionals and to monitor dental erosion and awake bruxism. MHAs’ clinical outcomes might have been influenced by the demographic features of the subjects involved. Further studies considering a longer follow-up period and larger samples are needed. In conclusion, MHAs can be considered a useful tool to monitor oral disease and increase patients’ quality of life related to oral health.
Why Has Trade Barely Moved Sub-Saharan Africa to Its Economic Potential?
Authors: Mazorodze Brian Tavonga
Published: October 2023

The rise in global trade volumes since the early 90s has been welcomed by many under the notion that trade helps countries edge closer to their economic potential. A concerning observation, however, is that while Asia, Latin America, and Europe seem to have witnessed a discernible rise in per capita income during this period and moved closer to their economic potential, sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) does not seem to have recorded as much success. Defining economic potential as maximum possible income from given resources and existing technology, the results presented here for a panel of 22 sub-Saharan countries observed between 1995 and 2021 confirm that the region’s ability to edge closer to its full potential was heavily undermined by its small and shrinking manufacturing sector, a result that is replicated by counterfactual methods. In policy senses against this background, SSA may need to reconsider its widespread deindustrialization model and rejuvenate manufacturing. This policy implication feeds into the broader discussion of premature deindustrialization in SSA and its economic consequences. Evidence suggests that reversing this trend through expanding manufacturing potentially lifts about 50% of the sampled countries (including Rwanda, Togo, Guinea, Niger, Sierra-Leone, Gambia, Benin, Uganda, and Mozambique) from low-income status to middle-income status.
Productivity Change in the CEE Commercial Banks during a Period of Restricted Bank Regulation and Stable Economic Growth
Authors: Stubelj Igor , Trunk Aleš , Švagan Barbara , Laporšek Suzana
Published: October 2023

The paper studies the productivity change of the commercial banks in the CEE countries over the post-crisis period 2013–2018. The productivity change is measured by the Malmquist Productivity Index and its sub-components, applying two approaches—the asset-oriented and profit-oriented intermediation approaches. The analysis uses data from a balanced panel of 181 commercial banks in 11 CEE countries. We find that commercial banks’ productivity, measured with the asset-oriented intermediation approach, decreased in most of the CEE countries over 2013–2018, with a decline ranging, on average, from 1% to 6.9%, driven mainly by a decline in technical efficiency. Nevertheless, estimates using the profit-intermediation approach point to productivity growth in commercial banks in all CEE countries, ranging, on average, from 0.5% to 6.3%. The empirical findings imply the need for the CEE commercial banks to further digital transformation and cost rationalization.
A Comparison of Newtonian and Non-Newtonian Models for Simulating Stenosis Development at the Bifurcation of the Carotid Artery
Authors: Stamou Aikaterini C. , Radulovic Jovana , Buick James M.
Published: October 2023

Blood is a shear-thinning non-Newtonian fluid in which the viscosity reduces with the shear rate. When simulating arterial flow, it is well established that the non-Newtonian nature is important in the smallest vessels; however, there is no consistent view as to whether it is required in larger arteries, such as the carotid. Here, we investigate the importance of incorporating a non-Newtonian model when applying a plaque deposition model which is based on near-wall local haemodynamic markers: the time-averaged near wall velocity and the ratio of the oscillatory shear index to the wall shear stress. In both cases the plaque deposition was similar between the Newtonian and non-Newtonian simulations, with the observed differences being no more significant than the differences between the selected markers. More significant differences were observed in the haemodynamic properties in the stenosed region, the most significant being that lower levels of near-wall reverse flow were observed for a non-Newtonian fluid.
Effect of Cold Brew Coffee Storage in Industrial Production on the Physical-Chemical Characteristics of Final Product
Authors: Maksimowski Damian , Oziembłowski Maciej , Kolniak-Ostek Joanna , Stach Marcelina , Zubaidi Muhamad Alfiyan , Nawirska-Olszańska Agnieszka
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this article is to present information about changes in physical properties (pH, TA, and color) and chemical components with bioactive activity in cold brew coffee beverages, during storage before and after HTST processing. Coffee samples were tested using industrial technology (12,000 bottles per batch). The antioxidant activity of the samples was analyzed using ABTS and FRAP methods, the concentration of polyphenols was determined using the UPLC-MS chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry method, and microbiological tests were performed according to PN-ISO/PN-EN ISO standards. The pH value decreased during coffee storage, and the color changed significantly in brightness. Polyphenol concentrations were calculated in the range of 1800 to almost 3400 mg/L, and the antioxidant capacity for ABTS and FRAP reached the ranges of the results successively: 123–195 µMol/100 mL and 158–212 µMol/100 mL. It was observed that HTST pasteurization has a beneficial effect on preserving the beverage in microbiological terms. Also, a positive effect of the process on the release of chemical components responsible for bioactive properties from the beverage was observed, followed by a reduction in antioxidant activity during the first 90 days of storage and between 180 and 270 days during storage.
An Innovative Method for the Production of Yoghurt Fortified with Walnut Oil Nanocapsules and Characteristics of Functional Properties in Relation to Conventional Yoghurts
Authors: Turek Katarzyna , Khachatryan Gohar , Khachatryan Karen , Krystyjan Magdalena
Published: October 2023

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are crucial nutrients involved in a plethora of metabolic and physiological processes. PUFAs have been extensively researched for their effects on human nutrition and health. The high demand for these fatty acids offers the possibility of adding vegetable oils to dairy products such as yoghurt. The aim of this study was to produce nano/microcapsules comprising walnut oil through exclusively natural ingredients utilised in yoghurt manufacturing. Additionally, the study tested yoghurt supplemented with PUFAs using the acquired nano/microcapsules. Chemical and physiochemical properties, microbiological analysis, rheological measurements, texture analysis, scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, and sensory and fatty acids profile analysis were performed. A physico-chemical analysis highlighted the impact of oil addition on fat and dry matter concentration, revealing an increased quantity of said components in yoghurt after oil addition. Based on the identified parameters for potential and active acidity in the yoghurts, normal lactic fermentation was observed. Furthermore, the addition of oil was found to have an impact on the pH of the yoghurt. Microbiological analysis indicated that the incorporation of nano-encapsulated walnut oil did not have any notable effect on the abundance of determined microorganisms in the yoghurt. However, it was observed that the number of Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus increased as a result of storage. The incorporation of enclosed oil in yoghurt resulted in negligible alterations in rheological and sensory characteristics when compared with the plain variant. The addition of oil had an effect on most of the analysed fatty acids. Fortified yoghurt shows a more favourable proportion of the fatty acid groups tested (SFA, MUFA, and PUFA) and lower values of fat quality factors (AI and TI).
Effects of Synbiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, Bifidobacterium breve, and Prebiotics on the Growth Stimulation of Beneficial Gut Microbiota
Authors: Kaewarsar Ekkachai , Chaiyasut Chaiyavat , Lailerd Narissara , Makhamrueang Netnapa , Peerajan Sartjin , Sirilun Sasithorn
Published: October 2023

The gut microbiota is a complex community of microorganisms that plays a vital role in maintaining overall health, and is comprised of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. The probiotic efficacy and safety of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei and Bifidobacterium breve for consumption were confirmed by in vitro experiments. The survival rate of the probiotics showed a significant decline in in vitro gut tract simulation; however, the survival rate was more than 50%. Also, the probiotics could adhere to Caco-2 cell lines by more than 90%, inhibit the pathogenic growths, deconjugate glycocholic acid and taurodeoxycholic acid through activity of bile salt hydrolase (BSH) proteins, and lower cholesterol levels by over 46%. Regarding safety assessment, L. paracasei and B. breve showed susceptibility to some antibiotics but resistance to vancomycin and were examined as γ-hemolytic strains. Anti-inflammatory properties of B. breve with Caco-2 epithelial cell lines showed the significantly highest value (p < 0.05) for interleukin-10. Furthermore, probiotics and prebiotics (inulin, fructooligosaccharides, and galactooligosaccharides) comprise synbiotics, which have potential effects on the increased abundance of beneficial microbiota, but do not affect the growth of harmful bacteria in feces samples. Moreover, the highest concentration of short chain fatty acid was of acetic acid, followed by propionic and butyric acid.
Effects of Cinnamon Powder on Glucose Metabolism in Diabetic Mice and the Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Liu Yaoyao , Liu Fan , Xing Dongxu , Wang Weifei , Yang Qiong , Liao Sentai , Li Erna , Pang Daorui , Zou Yuxiao
Published: October 2023

The liver is the primary organ regulating glucose metabolism. In our recent study, cinnamon improved liver function in diabetic mice. However, it is not clear whether cinnamon can reduce the glycemia of diabetic animals by regulating liver glucose metabolism. The purpose of this study was to investigate the hypoglycemic mechanism of cinnamon powder (CP) from the perspective of regulating liver glucose metabolism. To achieve this, different doses of CP (200, 400, or 800 mg/kg body weight) were given to diabetic mice by gavage once per day for 8 weeks. These mice were compared with healthy controls, untreated diabetic mice, and diabetic mice treated with metformin (the main first-line drug for type 2 diabetes). CP treatment effectively reduced fasting blood glucose levels and food intake, improved glucose tolerance and fasting serum insulin levels, and decreased glycated serum protein levels in diabetic mice. Furthermore, treatment with CP increased liver glycogen content and reduced the level of the gluconeogenesis precursor pyruvate in the liver. Data obtained by qPCR and western blotting suggested that CP improved glucose metabolism disorders by regulating AMPKα/PGC1α-mediated hepatic gluconeogenesis and PI3K/AKT-mediated hepatic glycogen synthesis. CP exhibits good hypoglycemic effects by improving hepatic glycogen synthesis and controlling hepatic gluconeogenesis. Therefore, CP may be applied as a functional food to decrease blood glucose.
A Colorimetric/Fluorescent Dual-Mode Aptasensor for Salmonella Based on the Magnetic Separation of Aptamers and a DNA-Nanotriangle Programmed Multivalent Aptamer
Authors: Ma Na , Sun Mengni , Shi Hanxing , Xue Liangliang , Zhang Min , Yang Wenge , Dang Yali , Qiao Zhaohui
Published: October 2023

Salmonella infection has emerged as a global health threat, causing death, disability, and socioeconomic disruption worldwide. The rapid and sensitive detection of Salmonella is of great significance in guaranteeing food safety. Herein, we developed a colorimetric/fluorescent dual-mode method based on a DNA-nanotriangle programmed multivalent aptamer for the sensitive detection of Salmonella. In this system, aptamers are precisely controlled and assembled on a DNA nanotriangle structure to fabricate a multivalent aptamer (NTri-Multi-Apt) with enhanced binding affinity and specificity toward Salmonella. The NTri-Multi-Apt was designed to carry many streptavidin-HRPs for colorimetric read-outs and a large load of Sybr green I in the dsDNA scaffold for the output of a fluorescent signal. Therefore, combined with the magnetic separation of aptamers and the prefabricated NTri-Multi-Apt, the dual-mode approach achieved simple and sensitive detection, with LODs of 316 and 60 CFU/mL for colorimetric and fluorescent detection, respectively. Notably, the fluorescent mode provided a self-calibrated and fivefold-improved sensitivity over colorimetric detection. Systematic results also revealed that the proposed dual-mode method exhibited high specificity and applicability for milk, egg white, and chicken meat samples, serving as a promising tool for real bacterial sample testing. As a result, the innovative dual-mode detection method showed new insights for the detection of other pathogens.
Effect and Mode of Different Concentrations of Citrus Peel Extract Treatment on Browning of Fresh-Cut Sweetpotato
Authors: Fang Xiugui , Han Jiahui , Lou Xuefen , Lv You , Zhang Yilu , Xu Ximing , Lv Zunfu , Lu Guoquan
Published: October 2023

Browning is one of the main phenomena limiting the production of fresh-cut sweetpotatoes. This study investigated the anti-browning effect of citrus peel extracts and the key components and modes of action associated with browning in fresh-cut sweetpotatoes. Five different concentrations of citrus peel extract (1, 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3 g/L) were selected to ensure storage quality; and the physical and chemical properties of fresh-cut sweetpotato slices were analysed. A concentration of 2 g/L of citrus peel extract significantly inhibited the browning of fresh-cut sweetpotatoes. The results showed that the browning index and textural characteristics of fresh-cut sweetpotatoes improved significantly after treatment with citrus peel extract; all the citrus peel extract solutions inhibited browning to some extent compared to the control. In addition; LC-IMS-QTOFMS analysis revealed a total of 1366 components in citrus peel extract; the evaluation of citrus peel extract monomeric components that prevent browning in fresh-cut sweetpotato indicated that the components with better anti-browning effects were citrulloside, hesperidin, sage secondary glycosides, isorhamnetin and quercetin. The molecular docking results suggest that citrullosides play a key role in the browning of fresh-cut sweetpotatoes. In this study, the optimum amount of citrus peel extract concentration was found to be 2 g/L.
Factors Related to the COVID-19 Prevention Behaviors of Adolescents: Focusing on Six Middle and High Schools in Korea
Authors: Lee Shinae , Jung Gye-Hyun , Song Hye-Young
Published: October 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has been one of the worst infectious disasters in human history. The best way to minimize COVID-19 transmission is to follow preventive measures. This study aimed to examine the factors influencing adolescents’ COVID-19 prevention behaviors. The study was conducted online from 1 to 15 February 2023 with 196 adolescents aged between 13 and 18 years of age. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, the independent t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multiple hierarchical regression analysis. Adolescents’ COVID-19 prevention behaviors were influenced by intrapersonal factors, such as knowledge of and attitudes toward COVID-19, and interpersonal factors, such as social support. Community and governmental factors had no impact. Public health education strategies should be planned to include friends and family members in programs for preventing new infectious diseases such as COVID-19 so that adolescents can learn and share what they have learned, correct wrong behavior, and understand and change infection prevention behavior. In addition, it is necessary to actively support the development of public health education with appropriate contents in accordance with the characteristics and preferences of adolescents.
Multivariate Independent Component Analysis Identifies Patients in Newborn Screening Equally to Adjusted Reference Ranges
Authors: Kouřil Štěpán , de Sousa Julie , Fačevicová Kamila , Gardlo Alžběta , Muehlmann Christoph , Nordhausen Klaus , Friedecký David , Adam Tomáš
Published: October 2023

Newborn screening (NBS) of inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) is based on the reference ranges established on a healthy newborn population using quantile statistics of molar concentrations of biomarkers and their ratios. The aim of this paper is to investigate whether multivariate independent component analysis (ICA) is a useful tool for the analysis of NBS data, and also to address the structure of the calculated ICA scores. NBS data were obtained from a routine NBS program performed between 2013 and 2022. ICA was tested on 10,213/150 free-diseased controls and 77/20 patients (9/3 different IEMs) in the discovery/validation phases, respectively. The same model computed during the discovery phase was used in the validation phase to confirm its validity. The plots of ICA scores were constructed, and the results were evaluated based on 5sd levels. Patient samples from 7/3 different diseases were clearly identified as 5sd-outlying from control groups in both phases of the study. Two IEMs containing only one patient each were separated at the 3sd level in the discovery phase. Moreover, in one latent variable, the effect of neonatal birth weight was evident. The results strongly suggest that ICA, together with an interpretation derived from values of the “average member of the score structure”, is generally applicable and has the potential to be included in the decision process in the NBS program.
Benefit of Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation in Heart Failure Patients with Different Etiologies
Authors: Long Songbing , Sun Yuanjun , Xiao Xianjie , Wang Zhongzhen , Sun Wei , Gao Lianjun , Xia Yunlong , Yin Xiaomeng
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: A plethora of studies have elucidated the safety and efficacy of catheter ablation (CA) for patients afflicted with atrial fibrillation (AF) and concomitant reduction in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Nevertheless, the literature on the benefits of CA in the specific etiological context of heart failure (HF) remains limited. This study delineates a comparative assessment of outcomes for patients with AF and reduced LVEF across the primary etiologies. (2) Methods: Our inquiry encompassed 216 patients diagnosed with congestive heart failure and an LVEF of less than 50 percent who were referred to our institution for circumferential pulmonary vein isolation (CPVI) between the years 2016 and 2020. The selection criteria included a detailed medical history while excluding those suffering from valvular disease, congenital heart disease, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. In an effort to scrutinize varying etiologies, patients were stratified into three categories: dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM, n = 56, 30.6%), ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM, n = 68, 37.2%), and tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy (TIC, n = 59, 32.2%). (3) Results: Following an average (±SD) duration of 36 ± 3 months, the prevalence of sinus rhythm was 52.1% in the DCM group, 50.0% in the ICM group, and 68.14% in the TIC group (p = 0.014). This study revealed a significant disparity between the DCM and TIC groups (p = 0.021) and the ICM and TIC groups (p = 0.007), yet no significant distinction was discerned between the TIC and ICM groups (p = 0.769). Importantly, there were no significant variations in the application of antiarrhythmic drugs or recurrence of procedures among the three groups. The mortality rates were 14.29% for the DCM group and 14.71% for the ICM group, which were higher than the 3.39% observed in the TIC group (DCM vs. TIC p = 0.035 (HR = 4.50 (95%CI 1.38–14.67)), ICM vs. TIC p = 0.021 (HR = 5.00 (95%CI 1.61–15.50))). A noteworthy enhancement in heart function was evidenced in the TIC group in comparison to the DCM and ICM groups, including a higher LVEF (p < 0.001), diminution of LV end-diastolic diameter (p < 0.001), and an enhanced New York Heart Association classification (p = 0.005). Hospitalization rates for heart failure were discernibly lower in TIC patients (0.98 (0,2) times) relative to those with DCM (1.74 (0,3) times, p < 0.01) and TIC (1.78 (0,4) times, p < 0.001). Patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and brief episodes were found to achieve superior clinical outcomes through a catheter ablation strategy. (4) Conclusion: Patients diagnosed with TIC demonstrated a more pronounced benefit from catheter ablation compared to those with DCM and ICM. This encompassed an augmented improvement in cardiac function, an enhanced maintenance of sinus rhythm, and a reduced mortality rate.
DALib: A Curated Repository of Libraries for Data Augmentation in Computer Vision
Authors: Amarù Sofia , Marelli Davide , Ciocca Gianluigi , Schettini Raimondo
Published: October 2023

Data augmentation is a fundamental technique in machine learning that plays a crucial role in expanding the size of training datasets. By applying various transformations or modifications to existing data, data augmentation enhances the generalization and robustness of machine learning models. In recent years, the development of several libraries has simplified the utilization of diverse data augmentation strategies across different tasks. This paper focuses on the exploration of the most widely adopted libraries specifically designed for data augmentation in computer vision tasks. Here, we aim to provide a comprehensive survey of publicly available data augmentation libraries, facilitating practitioners to navigate these resources effectively. Through a curated taxonomy, we present an organized classification of the different approaches employed by these libraries, along with accompanying application examples. By examining the techniques of each library, practitioners can make informed decisions in selecting the most suitable augmentation techniques for their computer vision projects. To ensure the accessibility of this valuable information, a dedicated public website named DALib has been created. This website serves as a centralized repository where the taxonomy, methods, and examples associated with the surveyed data augmentation libraries can be explored. By offering this comprehensive resource, we aim to empower practitioners and contribute to the advancement of computer vision research and applications through effective utilization of data augmentation techniques.
Stochastic Processes Derive Gut Fungi Community Assembly of Plateau Pikas (Ochotona curzoniae) along Altitudinal Gradients across Warm and Cold Seasons
Authors: Tang Xianjiang , Zhang Liangzhi , Ren Shien , Zhao Yaqi , Liu Kai , Zhang Yanming
Published: October 2023

Although fungi occupy only a small proportion of the microbial community in the intestinal tract of mammals, they play important roles in host fat accumulation, nutrition metabolism, metabolic health, and immune development. Here, we investigated the dynamics and assembly of gut fungal communities in plateau pikas inhabiting six altitudinal gradients across warm and cold seasons. We found that the relative abundances of Podospora and Sporormiella significantly decreased with altitudinal gradients in the warm season, whereas the relative abundance of Sarocladium significantly increased. Alpha diversity significantly decreased with increasing altitudinal gradient in the warm and cold seasons. Distance-decay analysis showed that fungal community similarities were significantly and negatively correlated with elevation. The co-occurrence network complexity significantly decreased along the altitudinal gradients as the total number of nodes, number of edges, and degree of nodes significantly decreased. Both the null and neutral model analyses showed that stochastic or neutral processes dominated the gut fungal community assembly in both seasons and that ecological drift was the main ecological process explaining the variation in the gut fungal community across different plateau pikas. Homogeneous selection played a weak role in structuring gut fungal community assembly during the warm season. Collectively, these results expand our understanding of the distribution patterns of gut fungal communities and elucidate the mechanisms that maintain fungal diversity in the gut ecosystems of small mammals.
Evaluation of Antifungal Selective Toxicity Using Candida glabrata ERG25 and Human SC4MOL Knock-In Strains
Authors: Nakano Keiko , Okamoto Michiyo , Takahashi-Nakaguchi Azusa , Sasamoto Kaname , Yamaguchi Masashi , Chibana Hiroji
Published: October 2023

With only four classes of antifungal drugs available for the treatment of invasive systemic fungal infections, the number of resistant fungi is increasing, highlighting the urgent need for novel antifungal drugs. Ergosterol, an essential component of cell membranes, and its synthetic pathway have been targeted for antifungal drug development. Sterol-C4-methyl monooxygenase (Erg25p), which is a greater essential target than that of existing drugs, represents a promising drug target. However, the development of antifungal drugs must consider potential side effects, emphasizing the importance of evaluating their selective toxicity against fungi. In this study, we knocked in ERG25 of Candida glabrata and its human ortholog, SC4MOL, in ERG25-deleted Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Utilizing these strains, we evaluated 1181-0519, an Erg25p inhibitor, that exhibited selective toxicity against the C. glabrata ERG25 knock-in strain. Furthermore, 1181-0519 demonstrated broad-spectrum antifungal activity against pathogenic Candida species, including Candida auris. The approach of utilizing a gene that is functionally conserved between yeast and humans and subsequently screening for molecular target drugs enables the identification of selective inhibitors for both species.
Deciphering DeFi: A Comprehensive Analysis and Visualization of Risks in Decentralized Finance
Authors: Weingärtner Tim , Fasser Fabian , Reis Sá da Costa Pedro , Farkas Walter
Published: October 2023

Decentralized finance (DeFi) promises a revolution in financial accessibility, transparency, and automation. Yet, its very novelty exposes participants to a number of additional risks and challenges. This study aims to address the risks associated with DeFi, while also conducting a comparative analysis to those of classical/traditional finance (TradFi). After introducing DeFi and its defining characteristics, such as the use of smart contracts, blockchain technology, and decentralized governance, the paper outlines the principal risks associated with DeFi. Drawing insights from an extensive literature review of 200 recent articles, of which 50 were thoroughly analyzed, the study compares risks of DeFi and TradFi, categorizing these into systematic and unsystematic risks. Furthermore, we introduce the ‘risk wheel’, an innovative tool tailored to understand and navigate the subtleties of DeFi risks, finding potential applications in risk assessment, management, and even education. This paper’s primary objective is to provide a detailed and impartial examination of the risks associated with DeFi and their comparison to traditional finance in order to assist stakeholders in making informed decisions and mitigating possible losses.
Theorems for Boyd–Wong Contraction Mappings on Similarity Spaces
Authors: Rozinek Ondrej , Borkovcova Monika
Published: October 2023

In this article, we introduce novel fixed point results for Boyd–Wong-type contraction mappings within the framework of similarity spaces, which have broad practical applications. The development of these results extends the classical theory of Boyd–Wong contractions by exploiting the unique structure and properties of similarity spaces. We provide an in-depth examination of the derived contractions, establishing conditions under which fixed points exist and are unique. In the latter part of the paper, we illustrate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed results with representative examples.
Biofilms as Battlefield Armor for Bacteria against Antibiotics: Challenges and Combating Strategies
Authors: Bano Sara , Hassan Noor , Rafiq Muhammad , Hassan Farwa , Rehman Maliha , Iqbal Naveed , Ali Hazrat , Hasan Fariha , Kang Ying-Qian
Published: October 2023

Bacterial biofilms are formed by communities, which are encased in a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Notably, bacteria in biofilms display a set of ‘emergent properties’ that vary considerably from free-living bacterial cells. Biofilms help bacteria to survive under multiple stressful conditions such as providing immunity against antibiotics. Apart from the provision of multi-layered defense for enabling poor antibiotic absorption and adaptive persistor cells, biofilms utilize their extracellular components, e.g., extracellular DNA (eDNA), chemical-like catalase, various genes and their regulators to combat antibiotics. The response of biofilms depends on the type of antibiotic that comes into contact with biofilms. For example, excessive production of eDNA exerts resistance against cell wall and DNA targeting antibiotics and the release of antagonist chemicals neutralizes cell membrane inhibitors, whereas the induction of protein and folic acid antibiotics inside cells is lowered by mutating genes and their regulators. Here, we review the current state of knowledge of biofilm-based resistance to various antibiotic classes in bacteria and genes responsible for biofilm development, and the key role of quorum sensing in developing biofilms and antibiotic resistance is also discussed. In this review, we also highlight new and modified techniques such as CRISPR/Cas, nanotechnology and bacteriophage therapy. These technologies might be useful to eliminate pathogens residing in biofilms by combating biofilm-induced antibiotic resistance and making this world free of antibiotic resistance.
Interplay between the Human Microbiome and Biliary Tract Cancer: Implications for Pathogenesis and Therapy
Authors: Ye Cheng , Dong Chunlu , Lin Yanyan , Shi Huaqing , Zhou Wence
Published: October 2023

Biliary tract cancer, encompassing intrahepatic and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma as well as gallbladder carcinoma, stands as a prevalent malignancy characterized by escalating incidence rates and unfavorable prognoses. The onset of cholangiocarcinoma involves a multitude of risk factors and could potentially be influenced by microbial exposure. The human microbiome, encompassing the entirety of human microbial genetic information, assumes a pivotal role in regulating key aspects such as host digestion, absorption, immune responses, and metabolism. The widespread application of next-generation sequencing technology has notably propelled investigations into the intricate relationship between the microbiome and diseases. An accumulating body of evidence strongly suggests a profound interconnection between biliary tract cancer and the human microbiome. This article critically appraises the existing evidence pertaining to the microbiome milieu within patients afflicted by biliary tract cancer. Furthermore, it delves into potential mechanisms through which dysregulation of the human microbiome could contribute to the advancement of biliary tract cancer. Additionally, the article expounds on its role in the context of chemotherapy and immunotherapy for biliary tract cancer.
Medication Reviews and Clinical Outcomes in Persons with Dementia: A Scoping Review
Authors: Sharma Rishabh , Mahajan Neil , Fadaleh Sarah Abu , Patel Hawa , Ivo Jessica , Faisal Sadaf , Chang Feng , Lee Linda , Patel Tejal
Published: October 2023

Persons diagnosed with dementia are often faced with challenges related to polypharmacy and inappropriate medication use and could benefit from regular medication reviews. However, the benefit of such reviews has not been examined in this population. Therefore, the current scoping review was designed to identify the gaps in the current knowledge regarding the impact of medication reviews on the clinical outcomes in older adults with dementia. Relevant studies were identified by searching three databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, and Scopus) from inception to January 2022 with a combination of keywords and medical subject headings. After the removal of duplicates and ineligible articles, 22 publications of the initial 8346 were included in this review. A total of 57 outcomes were identified, including those pertaining to the evaluation of medication use (n = 17), drug-related interventions (n = 11), drug-related problems (n = 10), dementia-related behavioral symptoms (n = 8), cost-effectiveness (n = 2), drug-related hospital admissions (n = 1), as well as outcomes classified as other (n = 7). Gaps identified through this scoping review included the paucity of studies measuring the impact of medication reviews on the medication management capacity and medication adherence, quality of life, and mortality.
One-Step Implementation of Collective Anti-Blockade in a Rydberg Ring
Authors: Fu Yijiao , Wu Jinhui
Published: October 2023

In contrast to Rydberg blockade, Rydberg anti-blockade allows multiple atoms to be simultaneously excited in the presence of significant nonlocal interactions and can lead to distinct phenomena and applications. This inspires us to examine here general conditions, numerical verifications, and realistic restrictions regarding the collective anti-blockade excitations of N Rydberg atoms equally arranged along a ring. We find that by adjusting the detuning of a pump field to compensate for nonlocal interactions between one atom and all others, it is viable to realize resonant excitations of N atoms but suppress far-detuned excitations of N−1 and fewer atoms under different conditions for an odd and an even number of atoms. Population dynamics of this Rydberg ring further show that one-step anti-blockade implementation can be attained at a cutoff time of the pump field, which increases quickly with the number of atoms. Hence, roughly perfect anti-blockade excitations are attainable only for a not-too-large N due to inevitable spontaneous Rydberg decay.
Gasoline Fraction High-Efficient Sweetening by Gas Condensate Oxidation and Rectification
Authors: Muktaly Dinara , Akopyan Argam , Myltykbaeva Zhannur , Imanbayev Yerzhan
Published: October 2023

The results of the oxidative desulfurization process (combination of straight-run gasoline fraction and gas condensate oxidation with subsequent rectification) are presented. It is shown for the first time that it is possible to obtain a gasoline fraction with ultra-low sulfur content by oxidation and rectification of gas condensate. Optimum conditions have been selected for the process of sulfur compounds oxidation and subsequent rectification of gas condensate.
Effects of Aluminium Oxide Content on the Regenerated Magnesia-Calcium Bricks for Cement Rotary Kiln
Authors: Qiu Gui-Bo , Hao Yi-Dang , Hou Jia , Wang Hui-Gang , Zhang Xuan-Hao , Peng Ben , Zhang Mei
Published: October 2023

Regenerated magnesia-calcium brick samples with different aluminium oxide (Al2O3) contents were prepared using spent magnesia-calcium bricks and fused magnesia as the main raw materials and Al2O3 powders as the additive. The phase compositions, microstructures, room temperature, hot flexural strength, and kiln coating adherence of the regenerated samples were investigated. This indicates that the Al2O3 content increased, mainly resulting in the content of tetracalcium aluminoferrite (C4AF) and tricalcium aluminate (C3A) increasing in the regenerated samples. The bulk density, room temperature flexural strength, and kiln coating adherence all increased, whereas the hot flexural strength and corrosion resistance to cement clinker both deteriorated with an increase in the Al2O3 content. This was because, on the one hand, the low melting point phases of C4AF and C3A improved the sinterability of the regenerated samples during the burning stage, and on the other hand, they melted or existed in the liquid phase at the experimental temperature, which degraded the hot flexural strength and corrosion resistance but enhanced the kiln coating adherence as the wettability of the liquid phase. The content of Al2O3 in the regenerated magnesia-calcium brick should not be higher than 1.1 wt.%, considering its comprehensive performance for cement rotary kiln.
Toxicity Assessment of a Biolubricant Exposed to Eisenia fetida
Authors: Vázquez-Villegas Paola T. , Hernández-Cruz Maritza del C. , Lam-Gutiérrez Anayancy , Rodríguez-Hernández Ludwi , Valdespino-León Mariana , Zenteno-Rojas Adalberto , Meza-Gordillo Rocío , Cruz-Salomón Abumalé , Serrano-Ramírez Rocío del P. , Cruz-Rodríguez Rosa I.
Published: October 2023

In the current search for products that are friendly to the environment, the intent is to reduce the use of domestic, food and industrial waste of mineral origin, thereby creating new products that are functional in industrial and agricultural processes. That is why the use of raw chicken skin fat was evaluated for the creation of a biolubricant with possible applications in the operation of heavy machinery, such as agricultural tractors. The acute toxicity of the biolubricant made from transesterified fatty acids obtained from chicken skin fat was determined experimentally, using bioassays with Eisenia fetida as a test organism, by means of the median lethal concentration (LC50) using the probit method (p < 0.05) on the filter paper at 48 h and on an artificial substrate at 14 days, resulting in an LC50 of 878.675 mg mL−1 or 0.0268 mg cm−2 and 35.2348 mg kg−1, respectively. Likewise, the physiological damage was determined by means of histology, and it could be observed that there was no damage on the Eisenia fetida cell tissue. This indicates that the biolubricant is suitable for use in agricultural machinery since, in the event of an accidental spill, it does not cause damage to the soil or the organisms that live in it, as well as to the people who handle this type of product in their daily work.
A Semi-Analytical Model for Production Prediction of Deep CBM Wells Considering Gas-Water Two-Phase Flow
Authors: Wang Suran , Li Dongjun , Li Wenlan
Published: October 2023

The productivity prediction of deep coalbed methane (CBM) wells is significantly influenced by gas-water two-phase flow characteristics and seepage parameters of the fracture network. While numerical simulations offer a comprehensive approach, analytical models are favored for their faster and broader applicability. However, conventional analytical models often oversimplify the complex problem of two-phase seepage equations, leading to substantial errors in dynamic analysis outcomes. Addressing this shortcoming, we establish a gas-water two-phase productivity prediction model for deep CBM reservoirs. This model takes into account the two-phase flow characteristics within the reservoir and fracture network, as well as the stress sensitivity of the reservoir and fractures. Additionally, a modified trilinear flow model characterizes the fractured modification body. By integrating the flowing material balance equation with the Newton Iteration method, we gradually update the seepage model’s nonlinear parameters using the average formation pressure. We also linearize the gas-water two-phase model through successive iterations to derive a semi-analytical solution. The accuracy of the model was verified through comparison with commercial numerical simulation software results and field application. The model also enabled us to scrutinize the influence of reservoir and fracture network parameters on productivity. Our research findings suggest that the semi-analytical solution approach can efficiently address the nonlinear seepage problem of gas-water two-phase flow, enabling quick and accurate prediction of deep CBM well productivity. Moreover, appropriate fracture network parameters are paramount for enhancing the productivity of deep CBM wells. Lastly, during the development of deep CBM reservoirs, it is crucial to control the production pressure difference appropriately to minimize the stress sensitivity impact on production capacity.