bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating cardiac disorders associated with triazole antifungal agents based on the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event reporting system database
Authors: Chen Jinhua , Xu Shijun , Yu Weijiang , Sun Cuicui , Zhang Wenzhou
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Triazole antifungal agents are widely used to treat and prevent systemic mycoses. With wide clinical use, the number of reported adverse events has gradually increased. The aim of this study was to analyze the cardiac disorders associated with TAAs (fluconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole and isavuconazole) based on data from the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System FDA Adverse Event Reporting System.

Methods

Data were extracted from the FAERS database between the first quarter of 2004 and third quarter of 2022. The clinical characteristics in TAA-associated cardiac AE reports were analyzed. Disproportionality analysis was performed to evaluate the potential association between AEs and TAAs using the reporting odds ratio (ROR) and proportional reporting ratio (PRR).

Results

Among 10,178,522 AE reports, 1719 reports were TAA-associated cardiac AEs as primary suspect drug. Most reports were related to fluconazole (38.34%), voriconazole (28.56%) and itraconazole (26.76%). Itraconazole (N = 195, 42.39%) and isavuconazole (N = 2, 14.29%) had fewer serious outcome events than three other drugs including fluconazole, voriconazole, and posaconazole. 13, 11, 26, 5 and 1 signals were detected for fluconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole and isavuconazole, respectively. The number of new signals unrecorded in the drug label was 9, 2, 13, 2 and 0 for fluconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole and isavuconazole, respectively.

Conclusion

Isavuconazole might be the safest of the five TAAs for cardiac AEs. TAA-associated cardiac disorders may result in serious adverse outcomes. Therefore, in addition to AEs on the drug label, we should pay attention to new AEs unrecorded on the drug label during the clinical use of TAAs.
Effective dose of intranasal remimazolam for preoperative sedation in preschool children: a dose-finding study using Dixon’s up-and-down method
Authors: Ni Ming-Jie , Jin Yu-Ting , Wu Qian-Lin , Zhang Ning , Tian Jia-He , Li Jun , Yuan Kai-Ming
Published: March 2024

Background:

Most preschool children are distressed during anesthesia induction. While current pharmacological methods are useful, there is a need for further optimization to an “ideal” standard. Remimazolam is an ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine, and intranasal remimazolam for pre-induction sedation may be promising.

Methods:

This study included 32 preschool children who underwent short and minor surgery between October 2022 and January 2023. After pretreatment with lidocaine, remimazolam was administered to both nostrils using a mucosal atomizer device. The University of Michigan Sedation Score (UMSS) was assessed for sedation 6, 9, 12, 15, and 20 min after intranasal atomization. We used Dixon’s up-and-down method, and probit and isotonic regressions to determine the 50% effective dose (ED50) and 95% effective dose (ED95) of intranasal remimazolam for pre-induction sedation. Results: Twenty-nine pediatric patients were included in the final analysis. The ED50 and ED95 of intranasal remimazolam for successful pre-induction sedation, when processed via probit analysis, were 0.65 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.59–0.71) and 0.78 mg/kg (95% CI, 0.72–1.07), respectively. In contrast, when processed by isotonic regression, they were 0.65 (95% CI: 0.58–0.72 mg/kg) and 0.78 mg/kg (95% CI: 0.69–1.08 mg/kg), respectively. At 6 min after intranasal remimazolam treatment, 81.2% (13/16) of “positive” participants were successfully sedated with a UMSS ≧ 1. All the “positive” participants were successfully sedated within 9 min.

Conclusion:

Intranasal remimazolam is feasible for preschool children with a short onset time. For successful pre-induction sedation, the ED50 and ED95 of intranasal remimazolam were 0.65 and 0.78 mg/kg, respectively.
Catatonia and melancholia interface: exploring a new paradigm for evaluation and treatment. A case series and literature review
Authors: Mahgoub Yassir , Pathare Aum , Hamlin Dallas , Gomaa Hassaan , Nutting Sean , Mormando Charles , Francis Andrew
Published: March 2024

Background

Catatonia has been increasingly associated with mood disorders and is recognized as a specifier in the DSM-5 and DSM-5-TR. The DSM-5-TR recognizes melancholia as a specifier for depressive episodes in major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. It is characterized by severe anhedonia, lack of reactivity, excessive or delusional guilt, and significant vegetative symptoms. As the conceptualization of melancholia expanded beyond its mood components to include psychomotor disturbances, its overlap with psychomotor symptoms or catatonia becomes evident. This overlap was also described in Kahlbaum’s original literature, where he describes the transition between states of melancholia, mania, and catatonia.

Method

Case summary of six patients with major depressive disorder or depressed phase of bipolar disorder who were admitted for severe depression, anhedonia, intense anxiety, psychomotor agitation or retardation, indecisiveness, perseveration, and vegetative symptoms such as poor sleep, appetite, and significant weight loss.

Results

All patients demonstrated rapid and complete resolution of their mood and psychomotor symptoms, indecisiveness, perseveration, as well as psychosis shortly after administration of lorazepam, with recurrence of the above symptoms upon lorazepam discontinuation and resolution upon resumption, in an on-and-off manner.

Conclusion

The present study argues for a closer relationship between melancholia and catatonia based on our case series, historical review, overlap in phenomenology, and response to treatment. We propose provisional [Mahgoub] criteria for patients with severe depression and melancholia. The role of GABA agonists, such as lorazepam, can be explored as an option for patients with treatment-resistant depression who meet these criteria for melancholia.

Limitations

Absence of a standardized, systematic assessment tool and a small sample size.
Multi-scenario flexible contract coordination for determining the quantity of emergency medical suppliers in public health events
Authors: Hou Hanping , Zhang Kun , Zhang Xuewei
Published: March 2024

Determining the optimal number of emergency medical suppliers for the government to contract with in the context of public health events poses a challenging problem. Having too many suppliers can result in increased costs, while having too few suppliers can potentially expose the government to supply risks. Striking the right balance between these two factors is crucial in ensuring efficient and reliable emergency response and management. This study examines the process of determining the appropriate number of suppliers in emergency medical supply chain. By incorporating option contracts and employing the total cost of government procurement as the objective function, the analysis focuses on the impact of relevant parameters on the optimal number of suppliers. Furthermore, the study investigates the optimal supplier quantities under different types of option contracts. The proposed decision model for determining the optimal number of suppliers in this paper considers three key factors: the supply risk associated with emergency medical supplies, the reserve cost of government procurement, and the responsiveness of emergency medical supplies. Additionally, a method is introduced for selecting the quantity of emergency medical suppliers based on flexible contracts. This approach offers a scientific foundation for the government to effectively address the challenge of supplier quantity selection when faced with risks related to shortages, expiration, and the combination of both.
Disclosure Compliance with Different ESG Reporting Guidelines: The Sustainability Ranking of Selected European and Hungarian Banks in the Socio-Economic Crisis Period
Authors: Tőzsér Dávid , Lakner Zoltán , Sudibyo Novy Anggraini , Boros Anita
Published: March 2024

As the relevant European Union directives require in-depth sustainability reporting from large institutions, banks are among the concerned with disclosure obligations. Several institutions prepare self-structured recommendations by which companies are indirectly fostered to make their operation more sustainable through reporting and to help compliance with the upcoming Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) regulations. However, in the preparation period, differences can be found in the actual sustainability disclosure practices across Europe (primarily by a western–eastern European relation). To examine this issue, this study aimed to investigate if there was any variation in the reporting compliance with aspects (key performance indicators—KPIs) of three reporting guidelines (Global Reporting Initiative—G4, Financial Services Sector Disclosures—GRI; Alliance for Corporate Transparency—ACT; ISO 26000:2010—ISO) between top European and Hungarian banks according to their 2021 sustainability/ESG reports, using content analysis-based disclosure scoring. The results revealed no significant differences among the general (aspect-pooled) scores for different guidelines, while the differences were significant for each guideline between the two bank groups. In the aspect-level evaluation, the European banks had higher scores in most cases, with the Hungarian banks receiving higher scores in 4 of 49 GRI, 1 of 16 ACT, and 2 of 37 ISO aspects. Significant correlations were indicated in disclosure score values between the two bank groups, which suggested similar preferences for the aspects demonstrated; however, elaboration levels differed. These findings showed that the European and Hungarian banks could be differentiated by their sustainability disclosure patterns. The results suggest a better CSRD-level preparedness of the top European banks than of the Hungarian ones, with the latter being introduced as a model group of the region. This reflects the need for more efficient adoption of best practices by financial institutions in the eastern parts of Europe.
Eliminating the Pathogen Xanthomonas hortorum pv. carotae from Carrot Seeds Using Different Types of Nanoparticles
Authors: Wohlmuth Jan , Tekielska Dorota , Hakalová Eliška , Čechová Jana , Bytešníková Zuzana , Richtera Lukáš , Baránek Miroslav
Published: March 2024

There exists a wide range of plant pathogens that are commonly referred to as seed-borne pathogens due to their dominant mode of spread. Treating seeds to eliminate such pathogens is therefore very important in contemporary seed production. In the present study, eight types of nanoparticles were evaluated for their effectiveness against Xanthomonas hortorum pv. carotae, a seed-borne pathogen that affects plants of the Apiaceae family. Initially, parameters considering the inhibitory and bactericidal activity of individual nanoparticles were evaluated under in vitro conditions. In this way, three nanoparticles based on copper, silver, and silver/selenium composite were identified as being the most effective. Subsequently, their ability to eliminate Xanthomonas hortorum pv. carotae from artificially infected carrot seeds was tested. This was achieved through the qPCR quantification of the pathogen in 14-day-old plantlets developed from seeds inoculated with Xhc. Based on the obtained results, copper-based nanoparticles were the most effective, resulting in an approximately 10-fold decrease in the occurrence of Xhc in plantlets compared to the untreated control. Taking into account the fact that X. hortorum pathovars also attack other important horticultural crops, the presented results may have a much wider scope than just carrot seeds.
Model Development for Off-Road Traction Control: A Linear Parameter-Varying Approach
Authors: Szabo Adam , Doba Daniel Karoly , Aradi Szilard , Kiss Peter
Published: March 2024

The number of highly automated machines in the agricultural sector has increased rapidly in recent years. To reduce their fuel consumption, and thus their emission and operational cost, the performance of such machines must be optimized. The running gear–terrain interaction heavily affects the behavior of the vehicle; therefore, off-road traction control algorithms must effectively handle this nonlinear phenomenon. This paper proposes a linear parameter-varying model that retains the generality of semiempirical models while supporting the development of real-time state observers and control algorithms. First, the model is derived from the Bekker–Wong model for the theoretical case of a single wheel; then, it is generalized to describe the behavior of vehicles with an arbitrary number of wheels. The proposed model is validated using an open-source multiphysics simulation engine and experimental measurements. According to the validated results, it performs satisfactorily overall in terms of model complexity, calculation cost, and accuracy, confirming its applicability.
Potential Risk of Frost in the Growing Season in Poland
Authors: Nidzgorska-Lencewicz Jadwiga , Mąkosza Agnieszka , Koźmiński Czesław , Michalska Bożena
Published: March 2024

Fruits, garden plants, and agricultural crops grown in Poland exhibit wide variations in their sensitivity to frost, particularly in early spring. In the case of frost, generally, the yield and quality are reduced, and sometimes, entire plants can be destroyed. This article characterizes the occurrence of ground frosts (at 5 cm agl) and air frosts (at 200 cm agl) in Poland gathered from 52 meteorological stations affiliated with IMGW-PIB between 1971 and 2020. To assess the real risk of frost to plants, the variability of this phenomenon was analyzed per thermal growing season (defined as air temperature >5 °C), rather than in traditional calendar terms as presented in most studies. In the climatic conditions of Poland, the growing season is characterized by a reported 28 days with ground frost and 13.3 days with air frost, approximately. In spring, the last ground frost disappears, on average, on a country scale, on May 14, and air frost on April 27. In turn, in autumn, the first ground frost is recorded, on average, on 1 October and air frost on 14 October. On the basis of the selected characteristics of frost and the growing season, four areas of potential risk of ground and air frost in the growing season, as well as in spring, were determined with the use of cluster analysis.
Effects of Trace Elements on the Fatty Acid Composition in Danubian Fish Species
Authors: Jovičić Katarina , Djikanović Vesna , Santrač Isidora , Živković Sanja , Dimitrijević Milena , Vranković Jelena S.
Published: March 2024

In this study, the concentrations of metals and trace elements (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb and Zn) were determined in the muscle tissue of adult roach and white bream at two different sites in the Belgrade section of the Danube. Twenty-six fatty acids, consisting of nine saturated FA (SFAs), seven monosaturated FA (MUFAs) and ten polysaturated FA (PUFAs), were identified. The analysis of the concentration of metals and trace elements of the roach and white bream showed species-specific differences in their bioaccumulation. Four of all elements analyzed (As, Hg, Ni and Pb) correlated significantly with the changes in FA profiles in fish from both sampling sites, with the exception of Cu, which correlated with the FA profile at the site before, and Zn, whose concentration influenced the FA profile at the site after wastewater discharges. The lower PUFA content in the fish from a site under higher environment pressure could indicate that the fish are stressed. The results suggest that changes in lipid composition may be one of the protective mechanisms of cells to cope with anthropogenic stressors.
Some Welfare Assessment Traits and Quantitative-Qualitative Milk Parameters as Affected by Supplementary Feeding at Milking and Parity in Anatolian Buffalo Cows
Authors: Akdağ Ahmet , Okuyucu İbrahim Cihangir , Erdem Hüseyin , Kul Ertuğrul , Ocak Nuh
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to evaluate whether supplemental feeding at milking (SFAM) positively influences the quantitative−qualitative milk parameters due to improving some welfare assessment traits of multiparous Anatolian buffalo cows confined in semi-open free-stall barns. A total of 76 Anatolian buffalo cows at approximately 90 days in milk were selected to encompass four groups (OSF-2nd, NSF-2nd, OSF-≥3rd and NSF-≥3rd), considering offering (OSF) or not (NSF) supplemental feed at milking and the parity (2nd) and (≥3rd). Data of evaluated variables such as the following ones—(i) subjectively scored welfare assessment traits (temperament, udder hygiene and body condition), (ii) milk yield per milking (MYM), (iii) milk components, and (iv) milk physical traits—were analysed using a linear mixed model and principal component (PC) analysis. The OSF improved the temperament, udder hygiene and body condition scores compared to the NSF. The MYM, the fat content and the fat-to-protein ratio of the OSF were higher than those of the NSF, but milk mineral and electrical conductivity of the OSF were lower than those of the NSF. The parity of cows did not affect the evaluated variables. Four parameters (milk density value and lactose, solids-not-fat and protein contents) could be identified in the PC2 versus PC1 plot. In conclusion, the SFAM enhanced the milk yield and qualitative milk parameters due to improving the welfare status of indoor buffalo cows, regardless of parity.
Model Adaptation and Validation for Estimating Methane and Ammonia Emissions from Fattening Pig Houses: Effect of Manure Management System
Authors: Sefeedpari Paria , Pishgar-Komleh Seyyed Hassan , Aarnink Andre J. A.
Published: March 2024

This paper describes a model for the prediction of methane and ammonia emissions from fattening pig houses. This model was validated with continuous and discrete measurements using a reference method from two manure management systems (MMS): long storage (LS) in deep pits and short storage (SS) by daily flushing of a shallow pit with sloped walls and partial manure dilution. The average calculated methane and ammonia emissions corresponded well with the measured values. Based on the calculated and measured results, the average calculated CH4 emission (18.5 and 4.3 kg yr−1 per pig place) was in between the means from the continuous data from sensors (15.9 and 5.6 kg yr−1 per pig place) and the means from the discrete measurements using the reference method (22.0 and 3.1 kg yr−1 per pig place) for the LS and SS systems, respectively. The average calculated NH3 emission (2.6 and 1.4 kg yr−1 per pig place) corresponded well with the continuous data (2.6 and 1.2 kg yr−1 per pig place) and the discrete measurements using the reference method (2.7 and 1.0 kg yr−1 per pig place) from LS and SS, respectively. This model was able to predict the reduction potential for methane and ammonia emissions by the application of mitigation options. Furthermore, this model can be utilized as a predictive tool, enabling timely actions to be taken based on the emission prediction. The upgraded model with robust calculation rules, extensive validations, and a simplified interface can be a useful tool to assess the current situation and the impact of mitigation measures at the farm level.
Pathogenic Bacteria in Free-Living Birds, and Its Public Health Significance
Authors: Kobuszewska Aleksandra , Wysok Beata
Published: March 2024

Birds that roam freely, particularly those that migrate, have the potential to carry a range of diseases that can be passed on to humans. The vast movement of these birds across diverse environments and urban areas can contribute to the spread of bacteria over long distances, impacting both human and animal populations. Stress, overcrowding, and human interaction can also play a role in the transmission of infectious diseases among birds and humans. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend the intricate connections between birds, vectors, zoonotic pathogens, and the environment, especially given the increasing urbanization and emergence of zoonotic illnesses. This review aims to provide a systematic overview of the significance of avian species in transmitting bacterial pathogens that pose a risk to public health.
Long-Term Effect of Maternal Antioxidant Supplementation on the Lipid Profile of the Progeny According to the Sow’s Parity Number
Authors: Gómez Gerardo , Laviano Hernan D. , García-Casco Juan , Muñoz Maria , Gómez Fernando , Sánchez-Esquiliche Fernando , González-Bulnes Antonio , López-Bote Clemente , Óvilo Cristina , Rey Ana I.
Published: March 2024

Pig feeding prior to the extensive fattening phase might affect the final lipid profile and product quality. This study evaluates how maternal supplementation with vitamin E (VITE) (100 mg/kg), hydroxytyrosol (HXT) (1.5 mg/kg), or combined administration (VE + HXT) affects the piglet’s plasma and tissues’ fatty acid profiles and lipid stability according to the sow’s parity number (PN), as well as the possible changes to the lipid profile after extensive feeding. The sows’ PN affected the total fatty acid profile of plasma, muscle, and liver of piglets, with lower Δ-9 and Δ-6 desaturase indices but higher Δ-5 in those from primiparous (P) than multiparous (M) sows. Dietary VITE was more effective at decreasing C16:0 and saturated fatty acids in the muscle of piglets born from M than P sows, and modified the liver phospholipids in a different way. Sows’ supplementation with HXT increased C18:2n-6 in triglycerides and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in muscle phospholipids. In the liver, HXT supplementation also increased free-PUFA and free-n-3 fatty acids. However, lipid oxidation of piglets’ tissues was not affected by the antioxidant supplementation, and it was higher in the livers of piglets born from M sows. The fatty acid profile in the muscle of pigs after extensive feeding was not affected by the PN, but it was by the sows’ antioxidant supplementation, with positive effects on quality by both compounds.
Detection Method for Rice Seedling Planting Conditions Based on Image Processing and an Improved YOLOv8n Model
Authors: Zhao Bo , Zhang Qifan , Liu Yangchun , Cui Yongzhi , Zhou Baixue
Published: March 2024

In response to the need for precision and intelligence in the assessment of transplanting machine operation quality, this study addresses challenges such as low accuracy and efficiency associated with manual observation and random field sampling for the evaluation of rice seedling planting conditions. Therefore, in order to build a seedling insertion condition detection system, this study proposes an approach based on the combination of image processing and deep learning. The image processing stage is primarily applied to seedling absence detection, utilizing the centroid detection method to obtain precise coordinates of missing seedlings with an accuracy of 93.7%. In the target recognition stage, an improved YOLOv8 Nano network model is introduced, leveraging deep learning algorithms to detect qualified and misplaced seedlings. This model incorporates ASPP (atrous spatial pyramid pooling) to enhance the network’s multiscale feature extraction capabilities, integrates SimAM (Simple, Parameter-free Attention Module) to improve the model’s ability to extract detailed seedling features, and introduces AFPN (Asymptotic Feature Pyramid Network) to facilitate direct interaction between non-adjacent hierarchical levels, thereby enhancing feature fusion efficiency. Experimental results demonstrate that the enhanced YOLOv8n model achieves precision (P), recall (R), and mean average precision (mAP) of 95.5%, 92.7%, and 95.2%, respectively. Compared to the original YOLOv8n model, the enhanced model shows improvements of 3.6%, 0.9%, and 1.7% in P, R, and mAP, respectively. This research provides data support for the efficiency and quality of transplanting machine operations, contributing to the further development and application of unmanned field management in subsequent rice seedling cultivation.
Modified Joint Source–Channel Trellises for Transmitting JPEG Images over Wireless Networks
Authors: Lin Yin-Chen , Wang Jyun-Jie , Yang Sheng-Chih , Chen Chi-Chun
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a joint source–channel image transmission model based on a modified trellis construction using variable-length and fixed-length codes. The model employs linear block trellis codes and a modified Bahl–Cocke–Jelinek–Raviv algorithm for decoding in the source channel. Additionally, this model utilizes a hierarchical tree and a parity-check matrix to combine the source and channel codes, reducing errors in the decoding process and enabling the decoding of longer sequences without substantial loss of quality.
Morbidity and Mortality Trends of Ischemic Heart Disease and Medical Interventions in Mediterranean Countries—Pre-COVID Analysis: Croatia, Slovenia, France, Italy, and Spain
Authors: Biloglav Zrinka , Medaković Petar , Ćurić Josip , Padjen Ivan , Vidović Dominic , Migo William Anthonius Allan , Škrlec Ivana
Published: March 2024

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) morbidity and mortality indices, along with medical intervention rates, were analyzed among Mediterranean countries, Croatia, Slovenia, Spain, Italy, and France, in the pre-COVID period. Standardized IHD incidence and prevalence rates from 1990 and mortality rates from 1985 were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017 and Health for All databases. Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and transluminal coronary angioplasty (TCA) rates in the 2011–2019 period were obtained from Eurostat. Trends were estimated with Joinpoint regression analysis. IHD mortality rates range from 13.6 to 74.3 for females and from 37.8 to 126.03 for males. IHD mortality rates in Croatia were 5.6-fold higher among females and 3.3-fold higher among males compared to France. All countries decreased standardized IHD prevalence and incidence rates, although the magnitude varied. The high-to-low ratio, Croatia vs. Spain, was 3.5-fold for CABG and 3.2-fold for TCA. Slovenia, as opposed to Croatia, reduced the gap for all medical indicators except for relatively high prevalence rates. Despite a significant rise in medical interventions in Croatia, ineffective clinical and public health initiatives have led to only modest declines in IHD mortality rates over the past decade.
Changes in Paraoxonase, β-Glucosidase, and Carbonic Anhydrase Enzymes Related to Age and Scopolamine-Induced Memory Impairment in Rats
Authors: Yildirim Hatice , Aksöz Elif , Efe Daşkan Burcu , Şen Fazilet , Çelebi Murat
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to investigate the changes in Paraoxonase (PON), Carbonic Anhydrase (CA), and β-glucosidase levels of different aged rats and scopolamine-induced memory impairment rats. This study used young, adult, and middle-aged male Wistar Albino rats. Scopolamine was administered as a single dose/multiple doses and a Morris water maze (MWM) was used for spatial learning testing in rats. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were used to determine serum and liver PON and β-glucosidase levels. The CA enzyme activity was assayed following the hydration of CO2. As a result of the comparison of age-related and scopolamine-related changes in PON and β-glucosidase levels in liver and serum samples, no significant age-related and scopolamine-effective changes were observed in serum, while liver PON and liver β-glucosidase levels were found to change significantly. CA activity studies, on the other hand, showed that adults have the lowest CA activity compared to young and middle-aged groups and scopolamine inhibited CA activity in vivo. We found that adult rats modeled with memory impairment had statistically lower levels of liver PON and liver β-glucosidase. CA activity was also found to be significantly reduced. β-glucosidase and CA should be further investigated in terms of neurodegenerative disease risk factors, just like PON, whose importance has been determined by numerous studies in the literature.
Discrimination of Cheese Products Regarding Milk Species’ Origin Using FTIR, 1H-NMR, and Chemometrics
Authors: Tarapoulouzi Maria , Pashalidis Ioannis , Theocharis Charis R.
Published: March 2024

The present study deals with the discrimination of various European cheese products based on spectroscopic data and chemometric analysis. It is the first study that includes cheese products from Cyprus along with cheese samples from abroad and several different cheese types. Therefore, forty-nine samples were collected, freeze-dried, and measured by using spectroscopic techniques, such as FTIR (Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) and 1H-NMR (proton nuclear magnetic resonance). Discriminant analysis was applied, particularly OPLS-DA. All data obtained from 1H-NMR were included, whereas, regarding the FTIR data, only the spectral subregion between 1900 and 400 cm−1 was used in the extracted model. The cheese samples were classified according to the milk species’ origin. In the future, the samples of this study will be enriched for further testing with spectroscopic techniques and chemometrics.
Study on Composite Fracture Characteristics and Hydraulic Fracturing Behavior of Hard Rock
Authors: Tang Xiaoyu , Wan Wen , Lu Zhenxing , Chen Wei
Published: March 2024

To investigate the influence of non-singular terms (T stress) in the stress field on the composite fractures of hard rock Type I–II, such as rock splitting failure and hydraulic fracture propagation, this study focused on hard rocks in metallic mines. Through splitting tests and hydraulic fracturing experiments, the impact of T stress on the characteristics of Type I–II composite fractures in hard rocks was analyzed. Utilizing the generalized maximum tangential (GMTS) stress criterion considering T stress, the stress intensity factors of hard rock Type I–II composite fractures with different pre-existing crack angles were predicted. The critical fracture pressure expression for hard rocks was derived based on the maximum tangential stress (MTS) criterion. The results indicate that the GMTS criterion, considering T stress, is more suitable for describing the characteristics of Type I–II composite fractures under rock-splitting loads. However, under hydraulic fracturing, T stress has a minor influence on the fracture characteristics of hard rock hydraulic fractures. Therefore, when predicting the critical fracture pressure of hydraulic fractures, T stress can be disregarded. This study provides a scientific basis and guidance for hard rock hydraulic fracturing engineering.
Finite Element Modeling of Cells Adhering to a Substrate: An Overview
Authors: Santoro Lorenzo , Vaiani Lorenzo , Boccaccio Antonio , Lamberti Luciano , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Ballini Andrea , Cantore Stefania
Published: March 2024

In tissue formation and regeneration processes, cells often move collectively, maintaining connections through intercellular adhesions. However, the specific roles of cell–substrate and cell-to-cell mechanical interactions in the regulation of collective cell migration are not yet fully understood. Finite element modeling (FEM) may be a way to assess more deeply the biological, mechanical, and chemical phenomena behind cell adhesion. FEM is a powerful tool widely used to simulate phenomena described by systems of partial differential equations. For example, FEM provides information on the stress/strain state of a cell adhering to a substrate, as well as on its mechanobiological behavior. This review paper, after briefly describing basic principles of cell adhesion, surveys the most important studies that have utilized FEM to investigate the structural response of a cell adhering to a substrate and how the forces acting on the cell–substrate adhesive structures affect the global cell mechanical behavior.
AI Somatotype System Using 3D Body Images: Based on Deep-Learning and Transfer Learning
Authors: Yoon Jiwun , Lee Sang-Yong , Lee Ji-Yong
Published: March 2024

Humans share a similar body structure, but each individual possesses unique characteristics, which we define as one’s body type. Various classification methods have been devised to understand and assess these body types. Recent research has applied artificial intelligence technology utilizing noninvasive measurement tools, such as 3D body scanner, which minimize physical contact. The purpose of this study was to develop an artificial intelligence somatotype system capable of predicting the three body types proposed by Heath-Carter’s somatotype theory using 3D body images collected using a 3D body scanner. To classify body types, measurements were taken to determine the three somatotype components (endomorphy, mesomorphy, and ectomorphy). MobileNetV2 was utilized as the transfer learning model. The results of this study are as follows: first, the AI somatotype model showed good performance, with a training accuracy around 91% and a validation accuracy around 72%. The respective loss values were 0.26 for the training set and 0.69 for the validation set. Second, validation of the model’s performance using test data resulted in accurate predictions for 18 out of 21 new data points, with prediction errors occurring in three cases, indicating approximately 85% classification accuracy. This study provides foundational data for subsequent research aiming to predict 13 detailed body types across the three body types. Furthermore, it is hoped that the outcomes of this research can be applied in practical settings, enabling anyone with a smartphone camera to identify various body types based on captured images and predict obesity and diseases.
Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses Reveal the Response Mechanism of Ophiopogon japonicus to Waterlogging Stress
Authors: Cheng Tingting , Zhou Xia , Lin Juan , Zhou Xianjian , Wang Hongsu , Chen Tiezhu
Published: March 2024

Ophiopogon japonicus, a plant that thrives in river alluvial dams, often faces waterlogging stress due to sustained rainfall and flood seasons, which significantly impacts its growth and development. Currently, the mechanisms of waterlogging tolerance in Ophiopogon japonicus are still unclear. This study analyzed the transcriptome and metabolome data for Ophiopogon japonicus in the Sichuan region (referred to as CMD) under varying degrees of waterlogging stress: mild, moderate, and severe. The results indicate that the group exposed to flooding stress exhibited a higher number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) compared to the control group. Notably, most DEGs were downregulated and primarily enriched in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, starch and sucrose metabolism, and plant hormone signal transduction pathways. A total of 5151 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were identified, with significantly upregulated DAMs annotated to two clusters, namely flavonoids such as apiin, pelargonin, and others. Furthermore, our study revealed significant upregulation in the expression of C2H2 (C2H2 zinc finger proteins) and AP2/ERF-ERF (the subfamily ERF proteins of APETALA2/ethylene-responsive element binding factors) transcription factors in CMD under flooding stress, suggesting their critical roles in enabling CMD to adapt to these conditions. In conclusion, this research provides insights into the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying CMD’s response to flooding stress and reports valuable genetic data for the development of transgenic plants with improved waterlogging tolerance.
Crystallization of Ethylene Plant Hormone Receptor—Screening for Structure
Authors: Rüffer Buket , Thielmann Yvonne , Lemke Moritz , Minges Alexander , Groth Georg
Published: March 2024

The plant hormone ethylene is a key regulator of plant growth, development, and stress adaptation. Many ethylene-related responses, such as abscission, seed germination, or ripening, are of great importance to global agriculture. Ethylene perception and response are mediated by a family of integral membrane receptors (ETRs), which form dimers and higher-order oligomers in their functional state as determined by the binding of Cu(I), a cofactor to their transmembrane helices in the ER-Golgi endomembrane system. The molecular structure and signaling mechanism of the membrane-integral sensor domain are still unknown. In this article, we report on the crystallization of transmembrane (TM) and membrane-adjacent domains of plant ethylene receptors by Lipidic Cubic Phase (LCP) technology using vapor diffusion in meso crystallization. The TM domain of ethylene receptors ETR1 and ETR2, which is expressed in E. coli in high quantities and purity, was successfully crystallized using the LCP approach with different lipids, lipid mixtures, and additives. From our extensive screening of 9216 conditions, crystals were obtained from identical crystallization conditions for ETR1 (aa 1-316) and ETR2 (aa 1-186), diffracting at a medium–high resolution of 2–4 Å. However, data quality was poor and not sufficient for data processing or further structure determination due to rotational blur and high mosaicity. Metal ion loading and inhibitory peptides were explored to improve crystallization. The addition of Zn(II) increased the number of well-formed crystals, while the addition of ripening inhibitory peptide NIP improved crystal morphology. However, despite these improvements, further optimization of crystallization conditions is needed to obtain well-diffracting, highly-ordered crystals for high-resolution structural determination. Overcoming these challenges will represent a major breakthrough in structurally determining plant ethylene receptors and promote an understanding of the molecular mechanisms of ethylene signaling.
Revolutionizing Ischemic Stroke Diagnosis and Treatment: The Promising Role of Neurovascular Unit-Derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Gao Xiangyu , Liu Dan , Yue Kangyi , Zhang Zhuoyuan , Jiang Xiaofan , Luo Peng
Published: March 2024

Ischemic stroke is a fatal and disabling disease worldwide and imposes a significant burden on society. At present, biological markers that can be conveniently measured in body fluids are lacking for the diagnosis of ischemic stroke, and there are no effective treatment methods to improve neurological function after ischemic stroke. Therefore, new ways of diagnosing and treating ischemic stroke are urgently needed. The neurovascular unit, composed of neurons, astrocytes, microglia, and other components, plays a crucial role in the onset and progression of ischemic stroke. Extracellular vesicles are nanoscale lipid bilayer vesicles secreted by various cells. The key role of extracellular vesicles, which can be released by cells in the neurovascular unit and serve as significant facilitators of cellular communication, in ischemic stroke has been extensively documented in recent literature. Here, we highlight the role of neurovascular unit-derived extracellular vesicles in the diagnosis and treatment of ischemic stroke, the current status of extracellular vesicle engineering for ischemic stroke treatment, and the problems encountered in the clinical translation of extracellular vesicle therapies. Extracellular vesicles derived from the neurovascular unit could provide an important contribution to diagnostic and therapeutic tools in the future, and more studies in this area should be carried out.
Effects of Cervical Spinal Manipulation on Saccadic Eye Movements
Authors: Klotzek Adam , Jemni Monem , Groves Shad James , Carrick Frederick Robert
Published: March 2024

Quantifying saccadic eye movements can assist in identifying dysfunctional brain networks in both healthy and diseased people. Infrared Oculography is a simple and non-invasive approach to capturing and quantifying saccades, providing information that might aid in diagnosis and outcome assessments. The effect of spinal manipulation on quantified saccadic performance parameters has not been fully studied despite known post-manipulative effects on the brain and brainstem regions controlling them. This case study investigates spinal manipulation’s immediate and long-term effects on saccadic eye movements by quantifying the saccades of a male patient diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome. The patient performed horizontal saccades that were quantified before and immediately following cervical spinal manipulation both at the case study’s start and following a 2-week interim, during which the subject received six manipulative treatments. Immediate and long-term post-manipulative effects were observed, and the results revealed various post-manipulative effects across all quantified parameters in addition to between right and leftward saccades. The immediate post-manipulative effect was greatest at the case study’s onset, while the long-term right and leftward saccadic symmetry were most affected. The observations in this case study demonstrate that cervical spinal manipulation influences saccadic eye movements, providing new insights into its central neurological effects and therapeutic applications beyond its most commonly known use in pain management. More importantly, it encourages scientists to undertake further clinical investigations on wider scales.
Effectiveness of Evidence-Based Design Approaches for Built Environment Professional Education: A Case Study on an Urban Design Studio
Authors: Shi Shulin
Published: March 2024

Urban built environment professions are facing challenges due to the less predictable future of cities, as well as the increasing expectations from clients and the general public. It is crucial to support and inform these professions with sound evidence in order to promote the sustainability of cities. However, there have been few efforts to introduce evidence-based design (EBD) theories and frameworks into built environment professional education. This study presents an EBD framework for an undergraduate urban design studio. The effectiveness and long-term impact of EBD approaches and the framework presented were examined via learning outcomes, student reflections, and guest comments across two rounds of studio delivery. The reflections and comments were coded and analyzed using NVivo 11. The effectiveness of the EBD approach is confirmed for the premises, development, and effectiveness of urban design proposals that align with the concerns and expectations of professional guests. The wide range of evidence and techniques also fosters cross-disciplinary collaborations. This study sheds light on education in the built environment disciplines, which would further enhance the strength of relevant professions, ultimately contributing to the sustainability of society.
Investigating the Use of a Liquid Immunogenic Fiducial Eluter Biomaterial in Cervical Cancer Treatment
Authors: Moreau Michele , Keno Lensa S. , China Debarghya , Mao Serena , Acter Shahinur , Sy Gnagna , Hooshangnejad Hamed , Chow Kwok Fan , Sajo Erno , Walker Jacques , Oh Philmo , Broyles Eric , Ding Kai , Viswanathan Akila , Ngwa Wilfred
Published: March 2024

Globally, cervical cancer is the fourth leading cancer among women and is dominant in resource-poor settings in its occurrence and mortality. This study focuses on developing liquid immunogenic fiducial eluter (LIFE) Biomaterial with components that include biodegradable polymers, nanoparticles, and an immunoadjuvant. LIFE Biomaterial is designed to provide image guidance during radiotherapy similar to clinically used liquid fiducials while enhancing therapeutic efficacy for advanced cervical cancer. C57BL6 mice were used to grow subcutaneous tumors on bilateral flanks. The tumor on one flank was then treated using LIFE Biomaterial prepared with the immunoadjuvant anti-CD40, with/without radiotherapy at 6 Gy. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging visibility were also evaluated in human cadavers. A pharmacodynamics study was also conducted to assess the safety of LIFE Biomaterial in healthy C57BL6 female mice. Results showed that LIFE Biomaterial could provide both CT and MR imaging contrast over time. Inhibition in tumor growth and prolonged significant survival (* p < 0.05) were consistently observed for groups treated with the combination of radiotherapy and LIFE Biomaterial, highlighting the potential for this strategy. Minimal toxicity was observed for healthy mice treated with LIFE Biomaterial with/without anti-CD40 in comparison to non-treated cohorts. The results demonstrate promise for the further development and clinical translation of this approach to enhance the survival and quality of life of patients with advanced cervical cancer.
Contrast Clearance Analysis (CCA) to Assess Viable Tumour following Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) to Brain Metastasis in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
Authors: Mohamedkhan Shybi , Hindocha Sumeet , de Boisanger James , Millard Thomas , Welsh Liam , Rich Philip , MacKinnon Andrew D. , Williams Nicholas , Sharma Bhupinder , Rosenfelder Nicola , Minchom Anna
Published: March 2024

Background and Objective: Brain metastases are common in lung cancer and increasingly treated using targeted radiotherapy techniques such as stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Using MRI, post-SRS changes may be difficult to distinguish from progressive brain metastasis. Contrast clearance analysis (CCA) uses T1-weighted MRI images to assess the clearance of gadolinium and can be thus used to assess vascularity and active tumours. Design and Methods: We retrospectively assessed CCAs in 62 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) undergoing 104 CCA scans in a single centre. Results: The initial CCA suggested the aetiology of equivocal changes on standard MRI in 80.6% of patients. In all patients whose initial CCA showed post-SRS changes and who underwent serial CCAs, the initial diagnosis was upheld with the serial imaging. In only two cases of a presumed progressive tumour on the initial CCA, subsequent treatment for radionecrosis was instigated; a retrospective review and re-evaluation of the CCAs show that progression was reported where a thin rim of rapid contrast clearance was seen, and this finding has been subsequently recognised as a feature of post-treatment change on CCAs. The lack of concordance with CCA findings in those who underwent surgical resection was also found to be due to the over-reporting of the thin blue rim as disease in the early cases of CCA use and, in three cases, potentially related to timelines longer than 7 days prior to surgery, both factors being unknown during the early implementation phase of CCA at our centre but subsequently learned. Conclusions: Our single-centre experience shows CCA to be feasible and useful in patients with NSCLC in cases of diagnostic uncertainty in MRI. It has helped guide treatment in the majority of patients, with subsequent outcomes following the implementation of the treatment based on the results, suggesting correct classification. Recommendations from our experience of the implementation include the careful consideration of the thin rim of the rapid contrast clearance and the timing of the CCA prior to surgery for suspected brain metastasis progression.