bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Euclidean Relativity Solves the Hubble Constant Tension
Authors: Niemz Markolf H.
Published: July 2024

Einstein’s special relativity (SR) and general relativity (GR) describe nature in “subjective concepts” (concepts of observers), such as relative spacetime, wave, particle, and force. The word “subjective” does not imply that SR/GR would be limited to one point of view. It implies that, despite the Lorentz covariance of SR and the general covariance of GR, any point of view in SR/GR is egocentric. Even coordinate-free formulations of SR/GR or multiple egocentric perspectives do not provide a “holistic view of nature” (comprehensive view of nature from all possible perspectives at the same instant in time) because there is no absolute time in SR/GR. Here I show: Euclidean relativity (ER) describes nature in “objective concepts” (concepts that are immanent in all objects). “Pure distance” replaces spatial and temporal distance. “Pure energy” replaces wave and particle. Each object’s proper space d1, d2, d3 and its proper time τ span an absolute 4D Euclidean spacetime (ES), where d1, d2, d3 and d4 = cτ are pure distances. All energy moves through ES at the speed of light c. An object’s proper time flows in the direction of its 4D motion. Thus, there is a relative 4D vector “flow of proper time”. The invariant parameter is absolute, cosmic time t. An observer’s reality is created by projecting ES orthogonally to his proper space and to his proper time. ER neither competes with nor replaces SR/GR. ER complements SR/GR by adding a holistic view. ER describes the “master reality” ES, which is beyond each observer’s reality described by SR/GR. The holistic view solves 15 mysteries geometrically, in particular in cosmology and quantum mechanics. Examples are time’s arrow, the horizon problem, the Hubble constant tension, dark energy, entanglement, and the baryon asymmetry.
Understanding Tree Mortality Patterns: A Comprehensive Review of Remote Sensing and Ground-Based Studies
Authors: Eliades Filippos , Sarris Dimitrios , Bachofer Felix , Michaelides Silas , Hadjimitsis Diofantos
Published: July 2024

Land degradation, desertification and tree mortality related to global climate change are in the spotlight of Remote Sensing research in recent decades, since extreme climatic events could affect the composition, structure and biogeography of forests. However, the complexity of tree mortality processes requires a holistic approach. Herein, we present the first global assessment and a historical perspective of tree mortality by reviewing both Remote Sensing and ground-based studies. We compiled 254 papers on tree mortality that make use of remotely sensed products, ground-based monitoring and climatic drivers, focusing on their spatial and temporal patterns, in the methods applied, while highlighting research gaps. Forested ecosystems, especially in the Mediterranean area, appear to have experienced often climatic-induced physiological stress under extreme droughts and warming, raising concern that forests may become increasingly vulnerable to tree mortality. Our core results indicated that international publications on tree mortality are on the increase with the main hotspots being North America (39%) and Europe (26%). Wetness indicators appear as the barometer in explaining tree mortality on a local scale, while vegetation indicators derived from multispectral optical sensors are promising for large scale assessment. We observed that almost all of the studies we have reviewed were based on less than 25 years of data and were of local scale. Longer timeframes and regional scale investigations that will include multiple tree species analysis could have a significant impact on future research.
Kynurenic Acid Modulates the Expression of Genes and Activity of Cellular Antioxidant Enzymes in the Hypothalamus and Hippocampus in Sheep
Authors: Misztal Tomasz , Roszkowicz-Ostrowska Katarzyna , Kowalczyk Paweł , Młotkowska Patrycja , Marciniak Elżbieta
Published: July 2024

Kynurenic acid (KYNA), a tryptophan metabolite, is believed to exert neuromodulatory and neuroprotective effects in the brain. The study aimed to examine the KYNA’s capacity to modify gene expression and the activity of cellular antioxidant enzymes in specific structures of the sheep brain. Anestrous sheep were infused intracerebroventricularly with two KYNA doses: lower (4×5 μg/60 μL/30 min, KYNA20) and higher (4×25 μg/60 μL/30 min, KYNA100) at 30min intervals. The abundance of superoxide dismutase (SOD2), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx1) mRNA, as well as enzyme activities (µM/µg of protein), were determined in the hypothalamic medial-basal (MBH) and preoptic (POA) areas, and in the hippocampal CA1 field. Both doses of KYNA caused a decrease (P<0.01) in the expression of SOD2 and CAT mRNA in all structures examined compared to the control group (except for CAT in the POA at the KYNA100 dose). Furthermore, lower levels of SOD2 mRNA (P<0.05) and CAT mRNA (P<0.01) were found in the MBH and POA and in the POA and CA, respectively, in sheep administered with the KYNA20 dose. Different stimulatory effects on GPx1 mRNA expression were observed for both doses (P<0.05-P<0.01). KYNA exerted stimulatory, but dose-dependent effects on SOD2, CAT and GPx1 activities (P<0.05-P<0.01) in all brain tissues examined. The results indicate that KYNA may influence the level of oxidative stress in individual brain structures in sheep by modulating the expression of genes and activity of at least SOD2, CAT and GPx1. The present findings also expand the general knowledge about the potential neuroprotective properties of KYNA in the central nervous system.
Design and Performance Evaluation of Oil Palm Fresh Fruit Bunch Transporter with Scissor Lift Mechanism
Authors: Desrial Desrial , Edris Ismi Makhmudah , Setiawan Radite Praeko Agus , Sutejo Agus
Published: July 2024

The existing methods of oil palm Fresh Fruit Bunch (FFB) evacuation from in-field to temporary collection point which typically apply medium to large tractors, often result in unexpected soil compaction. Meanwhile, smaller size equipment indicates low working capacity and unable to perform direct unloading to collection bin. This paper addresses the challenge of FFB evacuation by focusing on preventing soil compaction, increasing working capacity and enabling direct unloading to collection bin. For this purpose, a 6x6WD transporter prototype with a scissor lift mechanism was developed. With the design, the transporter could evacuate FFB in both steep mineral terrain and low ground pressure peatland, able to carry FFB with capacity of 750 kg and provide direct unloading into collection bin. The average field working capacity of the transporter was found to be 15 tons day-1. This research offers insights for future designs of medium-sized FFB transporters with advanced unloading mechanisms.
Analysis and Investigation of Thermodynamic Improvement and Exergy of Turbofan Engine Using Fuzzy Logic and Meta-Heuristic Optimizers
Authors: Nourianpour Mohammadamin , Banitalebidehkordi Mohammadreza
Published: July 2024

This paper delves into the comprehensive analysis and investigation of thermodynamic enhancement and exergy optimization of turbofan engines through the integration of fuzzy logic and newest meta-heuristic optimizers, like the Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). In contemporary engineering practices, exergy analysis stands out as a crucial and indispensable tool utilized by numerous engineers and researchers in the design, operation, and performance evaluation of energy systems. Its multifaceted advantages include the precise determination of location, types, and quantification of exergy losses and production. By augmenting exergy efficiency while concurrently curbing exergy destruction, substantial enhancements in engine performance and cost reduction can be achieved. The study focuses on the CF6-80A and CFM56 turbofan engines, scrutinizing individual components such as the fan, low-pressure compressor, high-pressure compressor, combustion chamber, high-pressure turbine, and low-pressure turbine. Key parameters for engine evaluation encompass exergy efficiency, recovery potential, relative exergy destruction, fuel depletion rate, and inefficiency. To conduct a rigorous exergy analysis, engine modeling is imperative, particularly during the cruise phase, which predominantly characterizes engine operation. Subsequently, exergy analysis is executed in accordance with established thermodynamic principles, leveraging equations governing mass conservation, energy conservation, and exergy conservation for each engine component. Further optimization of exergy destruction is achieved through the application of meta-heuristic optimizers and fuzzy logic, facilitating informed decision-making processes.
Trend in Infective Endocarditis in Bulgaria – Characteristics and Outcome, 17- Years, Single Center Experience
Authors: Dobreva-Yatseva Bistra Vladimirova , Nikolov Fedya Petrov , Raycheva Ralitsa , Uchikov Petar Angelov , Tokmakova Mariya Petkova
Published: July 2024

Background: Infective endocarditis (IE) remains a difficult disease to diagnose and treat, with a persistently high mortality rate. There is a lack of recent data on IE in Bulgaria over the last decades.
Methods: The study is retrospective, single centered, includes 270 patients diagnosed with IE, for the period 2005 - 2021. We compared the two periods 2005-2015 (n=119) and 2016-2021 (n=151) to find the characteristics changes.
Results: The median age was 65 (23) years and 65.5% (177) were male. In the second period, there is a significant increase in age from 62 (29) to 67 (22), (p=0.023); Charlson comorbidities index (CCI) from 3 (3) to 4 (4), (p=0.000); cases with chronic kidney diseases (CKD) from 12.6% (15) to 36.9% (55), (p=0.001); coronary arterial diseases (CAD) from16.85% (20) to 29.1% (44), (p=0.018); atrial fibrillation (AF) from 10.9% (13) to 23.8% (36), (p=0.006). Injection fraction decreased significantly in the second period from 63 (14) to 59 (15), (p=0.000). Almost half of the patients 45.6% (123) had no known predisposing cardiac condition and 46.3 (125) had an unknown port of entry. IE was community-acquired in 173 (64.1%), healthcare-associated in 26.7% (72), and injection drug use related IE in 9.3% (25).The study population included 67.8% (183) native valve IE, 31.5% (85) prosthetic IE, and 0.74% (2) intracardiac device­related IE. The hemoculture were positive in 59.6%, and the most frequent pathogenic agent was Staphylococcus - 33.3 % ( aureus – 16.5 % and coagulase negative - 16.8 %). Only 20% of patients underwent early surgery. The all­cause 30 days mortality rate was 24.8%. There is no significant difference between the two periods in terms of the characteristics listed above.
Conclusion: The profile of IE in Bulgaria has changed with increasing age and comorbidity, changing predisposing cardiac conditions and entry door. The most common pathogen was the Staphylococcus group. The 30 day mortality rate remains high.
Investigation of Combinatorial TiO2-MoO3 Mixed Layers to Enhance the Coloration Efficiency
Authors: Ismaeel Noor Taha , Labadi Zoltan , Fried Miklós
Published: July 2024

Electrochromic measurements have been performed throughout the full composition range of reactive magnetron-sputtered mixed Titanium oxide and Molybdenum oxide (TiO2-MoO3) to search for enhanced Coloration Efficiency (CE). Optical parameters and composition have been determined and mapped by using Spectroscopic Ellipsometry (SE). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). EDS has been used to check the SE results as it was used in our earlier paper [N. T. Ismaeel et al, Materials 2023, 16(12), 4204] for (TiO2-SnO2). Ti and Mo targets were put separately from each other, and the Indium-Tin-Oxide (ITO) covered glass and Si-probes on a glass substrate (30 cm × 30 cm) were moved under the two separated targets (Ti and Mo) in a reactive Argon-Oxygen (Ar-O2) gas mixture. By using this combinatorial process, all the compositions (from 0 to 100%) were achieved in the same sputtering chamber after one sputtering process. The CE (the change of light transmission for the unit electric charge) of mixed metal oxides (TiO2-MoO3) that are deposited by reactive sputtering has been studied in an electrochemical cell. This paper aims to assess the results of investigations of such materials showing the enhanced electrochromic behavior compared to the pure materials and to enhance the Coloration Efficiency.
Enhancing Cybersecurity in IoT Networks: Exploring Lightweight Key Establishment Using OSCORE and EDHOC
Authors: El-Hajj Mohammed , Trifonova Reneta
Published: July 2024

The widespread adoption of IoT networks has revolutionized modern life thanks to their diverse range of applications. With their increased usage, the need to transfer data securely has never been more vital. Often IoT devices are battery-driven and possess limited processing and storage capabilities. In response to those limitations, there has been a shift towards the implementation of resource-efficient and lighter protocols. This research aims to evaluate how lightweight key establishment through Object Security for Constrained RESTful Environments (OSCORE) and Ephemeral Diffie-Hellman Over COSE (EDHOC) can enhance cybersecurity in IoT networks where resources are limited. The study aims to explore different key management approaches and the effects of certificates on security, efficiency, and power consumption. The research methodology consists of the practical implementation of the protocols in a physical system where factors such as the impact of hardware acceleration on computational overhead and overall power consumption will be assessed. Furthermore, the study will verify the cost of resources and overall efficiency, evaluating them against real-world scenarios. The expected contributions of this study are insights into the tradeoffs between security, power consumption, and efficiency in resource-limited IoT environments.
The Role of Precision Agriculture Technologies in Enhancing Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Sanyaolu Mary , Sadowski Arkadiusz
Published: July 2024

Despite the known benefits of precision agriculture, the adoption is challenging due to the cost of investment and the farm sizes. Therefore, profitability is an important aspect to consider. This study aimed to evaluate the net returns, profitability, and investment efficiencies of PA by different economic farm sizes. The study was based on data retrieved from FADN and Eurostat. The study examined four countries (Poland, Germany, France, and Romania) under field crop farming using an investment cost of €35 941 - €71 883, and a 20% and 15% reduction in the cost of crop protection and fertilizer usage respectively without compromising productivity. There is a positive relationship between the adoption of PA and farm returns for larger-scale farms. The result of the profitability and analysis of investment efficiency using NPV showed a positive value for economic farm sizes of €100 000 and above. Hence, it is not economically advisable that all farmers use PA technologies with the hope that they will be profitable but with public support (subsidies) more farms will be able to use PA and be profitable. Also, an opportunity to meet the goal of the European Union Green Deal of minimizing emissions that cause climate change.
Hypoxia-mediated Long Non-coding RNA Fragment Identified in Canine Oral Melanoma through Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Hino Yasunori , Arif Mohammad , Rahman Md Mahfuzur , Husuna Al Asmaul , Hasan MD Nazmul , Miura Naoki
Published: July 2024

Hypoxia contributes to tumor progression and metastasis, and hypoxically dysregulated RNA molecules may thus be implicated in poor outcomes. Canine oral melanoma (COM) has a par-ticularly poor prognosis, and some hypoxia-mediated miRNAs are known to exist in this cancer; however, equivalent data on hypoxically dysregulated other non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are lacking. Accordingly, we aimed to elucidate non-miRNA ncRNAs that may be mediated by hy-poxia, targeting primary-site and metastatic COM cell lines and clinical COM tissue samples in next generation sequencing (NGS), with subsequent qPCR validation and quantification in COM primary and metastatic cells, plasma and extracellular vesicles (EVs) for any identified ncRNA of interest. Findings suggested that a number of non-miRNA ncRNA species are hypoxically up- or downregulated in COM. We identified one ncRNA, the long ncRNA fragment EN-SCAFT00000084705.1, as a molecule of interest due to its consistent downregulation in COM tissues, hypoxically and normoxically cultured primary and metastatic cell lines, when compared to the oral tissues from healthy dogs. However, this molecule was undetectable in plasma and plasma EVs, suggesting that its expression may be tumor tissue-specific and it has little potential as a biomarker. Here, we provide evidence of hypoxic transcriptional dysregulation for ncRNAs other than miRNA in COM for the first time, and suggest that ncRNA ENSCAFT00000084705.1 is a molecule of interest for future research on the role of the transcriptome in hypoxia-mediated progression of this aggressive cancer.
Unraveling the Threads Controlling Pakistan’s Gendered Nation-Building Ideology
Authors: Shah Safieh
Published: July 2024

Historically, the military and non-religious, sub-continent’s intellectual elite Muslim men crafted state ideologies before partition, by actively contributing to sociocultural constructs prevalent to this day, in service of colonial patriarchal concepts. The purpose of this ideological collaboration has been to mould a Pakistani cis-gendered female child primarily into the ideal “Pakistan-Muslim” bride for marriage, carried out through her family and society. This has shaped the lives of cis-gendered female children in Pakistan through coerced, gendered control, implemented as prescriptive societal norms. These norms are rooted in colonial, patriarchal ideologies and are functions of capital and coercion intentionally perpetuated to erase her pluralistic identity, reducing her to a central resource within a family unit. To the military concept of nationalism, her mind and her body symbolize the unification and centralization of a statist ideology. Thus, the military state plays an essential role in shaping her purpose around the concept of nationalism. The intellectual elite, via the state, uphold colonial, patriarchal ideologies, where the primary identity of a cis-gendered female child is actualized through her marriage. The cis-gendered female child’s life is a vehicle to unify the state’s two-fold “Pakistani-Muslim” agenda, by implementing a ‘singular statist narrative’. A narrative that attempts to resolve two major tensions: First, it seeks to wipe out the possibility of a nation connecting with and exploring its own immense, internal ethnocultural diversity. It does this by imposing an imagined “homogenous Muslim” identity — which doesn’t exist — and is instead imported from multiple countries to reinforce a ‘singular statist narrative’, Second, it aims to control the mixing of local, sociocultural narratives by bridging any disjuncture between them by labelling colonial institutional patriarchy concepts as inherently “Pakistani”; in service of its preferred ‘singular statist narrative’.
Photosystem I: A Paradigm for Understanding Biological Environmental Adaptation Mechanisms
Authors: Tian Lirong , Chen Jing-Hua
Published: July 2024

The process of oxygenic photosynthesis is primarily driven by two multiprotein complexes known as photosystem II (PSII) and photosystem I (PSI). PSII facilitates the light–induced reactions of water–splitting and plastoquinone reduction, while PSI functions as the light–driven plastocyanin-ferredoxin oxidoreductase. In contrast to the highly conserved structure of PSII among all oxygen–evolving photosynthetic organisms, the structures of PSI exhibit remarkable variations, especially for photosynthetic organisms that grow in special environments. In this review, we make a concise overview of the recent investigations of PSI from photosynthetic microorganisms including prokaryotic cyanobacteria and eukaryotic algae from the perspective of structural biology. All known PSI complexes contain a highly conserved heterodimeric core; however, their pigment compositions and peripheral light-harvesting proteins are substantially flexible. This structural plasticity of PSI reveals the dynamic adaptation to environmental changes for photosynthetic organisms.
Outcome One Year After Acetabular Rim Extension Using a Customized Titanium Implant for Treating Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
Authors: Kwananocha Irin , Magré Joëll , Kamali Amir , Verseijden Femke , Willemsen Koen , Ji Yuntao , Wal Bart C.H. van der , Sakkers Ralph J.B. , Tryfonidou Marianna A. , Meij Björn P.
Published: July 2024

The ACEtabular rim eXtension (ACE-X) implant is a custom-made 3-dimensional-printed titanium device designed for the treatment of canine hip dysplasia. Thirty-four dogs (61 hips) underwent ACE-X implantation, and assessments were conducted using computed tomography, force plate analysis, Ortolani’s test, and Helsinki Chronic Pain Index (HCPI) questionnaires at five intervals: pre-operative day, surgery day, 1.5-month, 3-month, and 12-month follow-up. Statistically significant increases in femoral head coverage with negative Ortolani subluxation test were observed immediately after surgery and persisted throughout the study. Osteoarthritis (OA) scores remained stable, but osteophyte size significantly increased between the surgery day and the 12-month follow-up, especially in hips with a baseline OA score of 2 compared to those with a score of 1. Force plate data showed no significant changes during the study. The HCPI demonstrated a significant decrease in pain score from pre-operative value to 6-week follow-up and gradually decreased over time. Major complications were identified in 6 hips (9.8%) of 4 dogs. In conclusion, the ACE-X implant effectively increased femoral head coverage, eliminated subluxation, and provided long-term pain relief with minimal complications, benefiting over 90% of the study population. The study supports the ACE-X implant as a secure and valuable treatment for canine hip dysplasia.
Cross-linguistic influence and the Working Memory on the acquisition of vocabulary
Authors: SALGADO ELIZABETH FLORES , Gutiérrez-Koyoc Aldo Falú
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to analyze the cross-linguistic influence of previously learned languages and working memory capacities on the vocabulary performance of two different typological languages. The objectives of this study were (1) to compare the working memory capacities of bilingual adults in relation to the vocabulary performance of two different languages never learned by the participants, and (2) to analyze to what extent the typology of previously learned languages influences working memory capaci-ties in relation to the vocabulary performance of French and Nahuatl. A group of 43 Mexican-Spanish college students participated in this experimental study. The participants completed a series of working memory tasks in Nahuatl and French. The results showed that working memory capacities were lower in Nahuatl than in French. Thus, a correlation was found between their first and second language and vo-cabulary performance in French. We can consider the influence of previously learned languages as a significant factor in vocabulary acquisition in accordance with the participants' working memory capacities.
Spiritual Connectivity Intervention for Individuals with Depressive Symptoms: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Leung Judy , Li Kin-Kit
Published: July 2024

Depression is one of the most prevalent mental disorders worldwide. This study examined the effect of a spiritual connectivity intervention on individuals with depression in a randomized waitlist control trial. Fifty-seven participants with mild or moderate depressive symptoms were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n=28) or the waitlist control group (n=29). The intervention comprised eight weekly sessions focusing on divine connection, forgiveness and freedom, suffering and transcendence, hope, gratitude, and relapse prevention. The outcome measures included depressive symptoms, anxiety, hope, meaning in life, self-esteem, and social support. Participants completed self-administered questionnaires at baseline (week 0), post-intervention (week 8), and at a 3-month follow-up (week 20). Repeated-measures ANOVA and one-way ANCOVA were used to compare the within-group and between-group differences in the changes in outcome variables. Participants in the intervention group showed significant improvements in depression, anxiety, spiritual experience, hope, self-esteem, and perceived social support after the intervention. Effect size statistics showed small to large differences (Cohen’s d, 0.308 to -1.452). Moreover, 85.71% of participants in the intervention group also experienced clinically significant reductions in PHQ-9 scores from baseline to immediate post-intervention. This study highlights the effectiveness of a low-cost, accessible intervention suitable for community implementation by clergy and faith-based organizations.
Enhancing Stock Price Forecasting with Generative Adversarial Networks and Conformal Prediction: A Novel Approach for Quantifying Uncertainty
Authors: Mtetwa Joseph Tafataona , Ogudo Kingsley , Pudaruth Sameerchand
Published: July 2024

This study introduces a novel method that combines Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) with conformal prediction to revolutionize the domain of stock ticker forecasting. Our approach enhances prediction accuracy and offers dependable prediction intervals to gauge uncertainty, surpassing current GAN-based techniques in unpredictable market scenarios. We made a validation using AAPL stock data, showing the ability of our model to generate accurate forecasts and reliable assessments of prediction uncertainty. The prediction intervals generated provide investors and risk managers with a powerful tool to make informed decisions. Our approach represents a notable advancement in financial prediction as it improves the clarity and reliability of forecasts. By incorporating conformal prediction into the GAN framework, the reliability of forecasts is improved, providing a thorough evaluation of uncertainty that is crucial for successful risk management. This framework has the potential to transform the field of predictive analytics in finance. It shows a solution that balances accuracy and uncertainty quantification. The results clearly show the effectiveness of this method, paving the way for its potential application in a wide range of financial prediction scenarios.
Slaughterhouse Wastewater Properties Assessment by Modern and Classic Methods
Authors: Crainic Ramona , Fechete Radu
Published: July 2024

Advanced 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) relaxometry and diffusometry methods and VIS-nearIR spectroscopy combined with pH, electric conductivity (EC) and totally dissolved solids (TDS) measurements were used to assess the properties of wastewater collected from a chicken slaughterhouse in each step of the treatment process (wastewater before treatment, biologically treated wastewater, chemically treated wastewater and discharged wastewater) and from sludge. The 1H NMR Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) and Pulsed-Gradient-Stimulated-Echo (PGSE) decay curves recorded for all samples of wastewater were analyzed by inverse Laplace transform (ILT) to obtain the distributions of transverse relaxation times T2 and diffusion coefficient D. The VIS-nearIR total absorbance, T2-values, D-values, pH, EC and TDS parameters were used for statistical analysis in principal component analysis (PCA). The 1H T2-distributions measured for the slaughterhouse wastewater lie in two main regions reflecting the amount of dissolved solids or the distribution of undissolved solids mobility. The PCA analysis successfully differentiates between polluted and less polluted types of wastewater and sludge. The wastewater treatment applied by the slaughterhouse is efficient. The recommended methods for wastewater monitoring are the NMR T2- and D-distributions and EC, TDS and NMR-D diffusion coefficient. Finally, Machine Learning AI-algorithms are used to provide prediction maps of wastewater treatment stage.
Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio: Side by Side with Molecular Mutations in Patients with Non-small Cell Lung Cancer. The INOLUNG Study
Authors: Budin Corina Eugenia , Cocuz Iuliu Gabriel , Enache Liviu Sorin , Rența Ionuț Alexandru , Cazacu Cristian , Pătrîntașu Dariana Elena , Olteanu Mihai , Râjnoveanu Ruxandra-Mioara , Ianoși Edith Simona , Râjnoveanu Armand , Cotoi Ovidiu Simion
Published: July 2024

Background and objective: Analysis of inflammatory biomarkers, along with the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) or platelets/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), supports the connection between inflammation and carcinogenesis. Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study at the Clinical County Hospital Mureș, including patients with lung cancer. The parameters analyzed included: histopathological type (NSCLC - squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma; SCLC), molecular mutations (EGFR, ALK, PD-L1), parameters from the complete blood count, inflammatory parameters and associated comorbidities. Results: 380 patients were included: 115 patients in the cancer group and 265 patients in the control group. Among patients in the lung cancer group, 88 were diagnosed with NSCLC (44 adenocarcinomas, 44 squamous cell carcinomas) and 27 with SCLC. Both NLR and PLR were significantly higher in cancer patients than in the control group (5,30 versus 2,60, p<0,001; 217 versus 136, p< 0.001, respectively). NLR and PLR differs between men and women (p = 0.005, respectively p=0.056). C-reactive protein was not correlated with either NLR (p-value: 0.0669) or PLR (p-value: 0.6733) in lung cancer patients. Conclusion: The NLR and PLR values ​​may serve as new predictive biomarkers for the diagnostic of disease in patients with lung cancer, especially those with NSCLC.
Interest of Lung Ultrasound in the Management of Acute Heart Failure in Post-emergency Service
Authors: Bel Alonso Elena , Grember Alice , Cheval Camille , Papillon Raphaelle , Mairot Lea , Deroux Alban , Bouillet Laurence , Bellier Alexandre , Dumanoir Perrine
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: LUS has emerged as a simple, rapid and non-invasive method for the dynamic assessment of pulmonary congestion, a major prognostic factor and a therapeutic target in AHF. (2) Methods: In the single-center prospective observational study, 42 patients hospitalized for AHF in the post-emergency polyvalent medicine department of CHU Grenoble were successively included between May 2021 and July 2022. Clinical examination, LUS and electrolyte panel results were collected daily. Vital status was assessed 30 days after the last LUS. The primary endpoint was the evolution of the number of B-lines according to the dose of diuretic administered ; (3) Results: We performed 188 LUS. Our patients were elderly (85.8 [SD 8.1]) and comorbid. The median number of B-lines decreased from 17 at admission to 7 in the middle of the hospital stay, then stagnated until discharge. Simultaneously, the median dose of diuretics, initially stable at a maximum of 40 mg/d IV, decreased to 20mg/d IV by the end of hospital stay. Patients with CKD had a higher mean number of B-lines at entry (24.2 [SD 11.6]) compared to those without CKD (8.2 [SD 8.8]). However, the evolution of B-lines number was independent of creatinine levels. 30-day all-causes mortality was significantly related to the number of B-lines at discharge (15.2 [SD 10.1] in deceased patients versus 3.9 [SD 5.4] in living patients, p
Evaluation of Muscle Synergy Flexibility Induced by a Muscle Nerve Block in Chronic Stroke Patients
Authors: Supiot Anthony , Roche Nicolas , Berret Bastien , Pradon Didier
Published: July 2024

Background : Drug treatments for gait disorders in post-stroke patients aim to reduce muscular hyperactivity. Analysis of muscle activity is essential to help clinicians understand these disorders. The aim of this study was to quantify changes in muscle synergies before (PRE) and after (POST) rectus femoris nerve block.
Methods : Gait analysis of 8 post-stroke patients before and immediately after nerve block. Muscle synergies were quantified from electromyographic signals. We have selected: the account for variance indicating the robustness of the synergies, the recruitment selectivity index indicating the degree of multiplexing of the synergies, and the recruitment consistency index indicating the variability of the synergies.
Results : A decrease in VAF is observed, suggesting a reduction in gait pattern robustness. We also note that spatial and temporal primitives are slightly different (IRC, IRS) in PRE vs. POST, and that their activation is more nested in POST than in PRE.
Conclusions : The motor nerve block has not created new muscle synergies of the paretic limb during gait, but indicates that there is flexibility in motor organization. This method of quanti-fication may enable clinicians to assess the motor adaptation potential of their post-stroke patient.
Converting Tessellations into Graphs: from Voronoi Tessellations to Complete Graphs
Authors: Gilevich Artem , Shoval Shraga , Nosonovsky Michael , Frenkel Mark , Bormashenko Edward
Published: July 2024

A mathematical procedure enabling the transformation of an arbitrary tessellation of a surface into a bi-colored complete graph is introduced. Polygons constituting the tessellation are represented by vertices of the graphs. Vertices of the graphs are connected by two kinds of links/edges, namely, by a green link, when polygons have the same number of sides, and by a red link, when the polygons have a different number of sides. This procedure gives rise to a semi-transitive, complete, bi-colored Ramsey graph. The Ramsey number was established as R_trans (3,3)=5. Shannon entropies of the tessellation and graphs are introduced. Ramsey graphs emerging from random Voronoi and Poisson Line tessellations were investigated. The limits ζ=lim┬(N→∞)⁡〖N_g/N_r 〗, where N is the total number of green and red seeds, N_g and N_r, were found ζ=0.272±0.001 (Voronoi) and ζ= 0.47±0.02 (Poisson Line). The Shannon Entropy for the random Voronoi tessellation was calculated as S= 1.690±0.001 and for the Poisson line tessellation as S =1.265±0.015.
The Great Reset as a Realistic Utopia. A Critical Stance from the Theory of Complex Systems.
Authors: Tortia Ermanno C.
Published: July 2024

The Great Reset has been presented by the World Economic Forum (WEF) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022 as a model through which a “stakeholder economy” would achieve “resilient, equitable and sustainable” economic, social and environmental goals. A more equitable distribution of resources, better working conditions, and ecological transitions are included in a social, economic and environmental reform agenda. This article raises the question of whether the Great Reset project should be interpreted as a “realistic utopia” and what is its reform potential. In an attempt to answer the question of whether the Great Reset as a realist utopia is consistent with the current state of science and philosophy, the article re-examines the idea of utopia in the light of recent philosophical and scientific approaches, such as critical realism in philosophy, so-cial systems theory in sociology and complexity theory in science. A comparative conceptual analysis is carried out and discussed introducing the idea of a realist utopia in Rawls' theory of justice as fairness. In the final discussion, some doubts are raised about the logical coherence, rigor of scientific theorizing, policy prescriptions, and predictive potential of the Great Reset emerging paradigm. It is concluded that utopian projects of radical reform can become realistic when they offer explanations of the deep structural changes that underlie social and economic evolution, drawing from these explanations the policy implications and prescription that can support struc-tural changes, rather than from assumed long-term effects of exogenous shocks or “black swan” events such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chest X-Ray Findings and Prognostic Factors in Survival Analysis in Peritoneal Dialysis and Hemodialysis Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Tabakoglu Nilgün Tan , Hatipoglu Osman Nuri
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: To analyze survival in peritoneal and hemodialysis patients using chest radiography and biochemical parameters, determine dialysis etiologies and common mortality causes, reveal prognostic factors, and contribute to clinical practice. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study was based on the analysis of data from 33 peritoneal dialysis and 37 hemodialysis patients who were followed and treated in our hospital between October 2018 and February 2020. Chest X-ray measurements (cardiothoracic index, pulmonary vascular pedicle width, right pulmonary artery diameter, diaphragmatic height) and biochemical parameters (urea, albumin, creatinine, parathormone, ferritin, hemoglobin, arterial blood gas, potassium) were analyzed to assess their impact on survival. Statistical analyses were performed using the Shapiro-Wilk, Wilcoxon signed rank test, Mann-Whitney U test, McNemar test, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, Cox regression analysis, Spearman correlation test, Phi test, and ROC analysis. Results: The most common etiologies of dialysis were hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and urogenital disorders. The most common cause of death in peritoneal dialysis patients was peritonitis (38.5%), while in hemodialysis patients, it was cardiovascular diseases (47.4%). In chest X-ray measurements, pulmonary vascular pedicle width (p=0.003) and pulmonary artery diameter increased significantly (p=0.002) in hemodialysis patients, while pulmonary vascular pedicle width (p=0.028) and diaphragmatic height (p=0.004) increased significantly in peritoneal dialysis patients. No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of biochemical parameters. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that there was no significant difference in survival between peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis methods (P>0.05). Significant correlations were found between both radiologic status and clinical status and between intact parathormone levels and pulmonary vascular pedicle width (p=0.016, p=0.024). In Cox regression analysis, age, intact parathormone levels, iPTH/PVPW ratio, and clinical status were found to be factors affecting survival (p
Prioritization of Critical Success Factors in Industrial Waste Management by Experts and Employees
Authors: Yüregir Hacire Oya , Ekşici Fatma
Published: July 2024

Today, with the increase in population, technological developments, industrialization and urbanization, the problems related to waste management (WM) have become increasingly important to sustainably global clean environment. The gradual change in the quality of the elements that make up the environment, increasing environmental problems, and gaining global quality have caused societies to focus more on environmental problems. Waste management is a form of management that includes the prevention, non-prevention, reuse, recovery, and disposal of domestic, medical, hazardous, and non-hazardous wastes. In this study, it is aimed to prioritize critical success factors with the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) in industrial waste management and to determine the most important critical success factor. The four main criteria and 23 sub-criteria were scored by the AHP method by five expert environmental engineers. Accordingly, after critical success factors were determined, survey questions were prepared to make employees rank these factors. While "national/local waste management strategies and policies" factor was the most important critical success factor according to experts, the most important critical success factor for employees was "enterprise waste management strategies and policies". In addition, differences in the priorities of CSFs were found in the opinions of employees in different sectors.
The 2-Hour Plasma Glucose Levels During OGTT, Conducted in the Postprandial Period Between 4 and 7.9 Hours, Are Associated With the Diagnosis of Diabetes, Diabetes Mortality, and Cardiovascular Mortality
Authors: Wang Yutang , Fang Yan , Yang Guang
Published: July 2024

Postprandial plasma glucose between 4 and 7.9 hours is associated with the diagnosis of diabetes, diabetes mortality, and cardiovascular mortality. However, it is unknown whether 2-hour plasma glucose during the oral glucose tolerance test conducted in this postprandial period (4–7.9 hours), termed as 2-h PGOGTT@4–7.9h, can accurately classify diabetes diagnosis and predict mortality risks. This study aimed to address these questions using 2,347 adult participants. Diabetes was defined as HbA1c ≥6.5%, and the ability of 2-h PGOGTT@4–7.9h to classify diabetes was analyzed using receiver operating characteristic curves. Cox proportional hazards models were employed to estimate mortality hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The results showed that 2-h PGOGTT@4–7.9h could classify diabetes with 92% accuracy. Participants were followed up for a mean of 21.4 years. A 1-natural-log higher 2-h PGOGTT@4–7.9h was associated with an increased risk of mortality from diabetes (adjusted HR, 21.1; 95% CI, 9.2–48.0) and cardiovascular disease (adjusted HR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.13–1.91). Simulation analysis indicated that future studies may require at least 100 participants to investigate 2-h PGOGTT@4–7.9h for diabetes diagnosis. In conclusion, 2-h PGOGTT@4–7.9h may be useful for diabetes classification and prediction of mortality risk.
Trophic Level Variations of Heavy Metals in Feathers of Birds from the Awotan Landfill, in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: R. Rotimi Abdulsalam , Oni Adeola A. , Adeogun Aina O.
Published: July 2024

Pollution, urbanization and technological advancements have posed stress on the ecosystem and its matrices. Globally, pollutants are observed in all compartments of ecological communities which affect the integrity of the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere. Xenobiotics bioaccumulate and biomagnify across trophic levels or webs. Heavy metals have been implicated in impacts towards biodiversity and environmental declination. In Nigeria, wastes issues are a cause of concern and landfilling or are waste disposal approaches that cause deleterious effects such as depauperation of diversity and species decline, prompting the non-invasive ecotoxicological hazard assessments. Feathers were used to assess concentration levels of 13 metals (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Co, Cr, Cd, Pb, Ni, Al, B, Se and Hg) using fast atomic absorption spectrophotometer (FAAS), one-way ANOVA was used in comparing variations in mean concentrations across trophic levels, diversity indices and point count methods were used to estimate diversity and abundance. Four avian species were assessed Hirundo aethiopica (insectivore), Streptoptelia senegalensis (granivore), Turdus pelios (omnivore), and Anthus leucophrys. (insectivore). Observed concentrations of important metals like iron were high with the insectivores having the highest concentrations of iron (2.6985 ± 0.1975 ppm) and granivores having the lowest (2.0100 ± 0.3172 ppm). The insectivores had the highest concentrations for cadmium, cobalt and chromium (0.0005 ± 0.0005ppm), nickel (at 00.0012 ± 0.0017 ppm) and least was observed in the granivores (0.0003 ± 0.0006 ppm). Selenium concentrations were quite high in insectivores (0.0775 ± 0.0035 ppm) and lowest in granivores (0.0433 ± 0.0015 ppm) likewise mercury for insectivores (0.0280 ± 0.0010 ppm) and granivores (0.0213 ± 0.0015 ppm). From the study, it is apparent that landfills are sources of pollution and poor management of wastes can affect biota (causing effects such as asymmetry and bioaccumulation) and ecosystem balance. The observation of heavy metals in the feathers serve as good sentinels due to their trophic levels and could be signs for what could be yet to occur. The heavy metal concentrations were significantly different at p < 0.05.
A 4-Electrode Microfluidic Microbial Fuel Cell Doubles Power Output and Conversion Efficiency, but Gravitational Effects must Be Overcome
Authors: Liu Linlin , Baghernavehsi Haleh , Greener Jesse
Published: July 2024

High-power output and high conversion efficiency are crucial in the study of microfluidic microbial fuel cells (MFCs). In our previous work, we attempted various methods to increase the power density of the MFCs, but nutrient consumption was limited to the bottom (electrode) layer of the microfluidic channel due to the diffusion limitations. In this work, long-term experiments were conducted on a new 4-electrode microfluidic MFC design, which grew Geobacter sulfurreducens biofilms on upward- and downward-facing electrodes in the microchannel. It was discovered that inoculation and growth of the electroactive biofilm did not proceed as fast as the downward facing anode, which we hypothesize is due to gravity effects that negatively impacted bacterial settling on that surface. Rotating the device during the growth phase resulted in uniform and strong outputs from both sides, yielding individual power densities of 4.03 and 4.13 W m-2, which was increased to nearly double when the top- and bottom-side electrodes were operated in parallel as a single 4-electrode MFC. Similarly, acetate consumption could be doubled with the 4-electrodes operated in parallel.
Design and Implementation of Adaptive Deep Learning-Based DC-DC Converters for Photovoltaic Systems with Battery Storage in Electric Vehicles
Authors: S Chitra Devi , Ramkumar A
Published: July 2024

Photovoltaic (PV) systems, which are renewable energy sources, are increasingly being utilized in distributed generation. To maintain a stable energy balance, energy storage systems such as batteries (BAT) play a vital role. Electric vehicles (EVs) offer a promising solution with rechargeable battery systems for operation. The BATs must maintain their state of charge within design boundaries, despite intermittent PV and load power fluctuations, and advanced power control and management techniques are essential for their effective operation. The article evaluates an intelligent controller that uses a Sliding Mode Control adaptive deep learning algorithm Convolutional Neural Networks (SMC-CNN) and a unique Strategy for managing supervisory power. (SPMS) for photovoltaic systems with battery energy storage for better regulation of DC bus voltage. SMC-CNN offers exceptional resilience and seamless functionality, minimizing fluctuations in DC bus voltage in the control strategy design requirements. The primary goals are maintaining a consistent power supply and ensuring continuous service by preventing system components from exceeding capacity. This study aims to enhance the control of DC bus voltage in the PV and battery system, with the primary significance focusing on the following aspects. The advanced SPMS has been created, incorporating control system constraints to enhance SOC balancing speed and reduce fluctuations in DC bus voltage. Power flow management involves optimizing energy flow between the PV system, battery system, and load while minimizing battery capacity requirements. The proposed SMC-CNN and SPMS are demonstrated through real-time simulation using Matlab/Simulink, as demonstrated in comprehensive case studies.