bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-Time Brain Tumor Detection and Classification Using a FastAPI-Deployed CNN Model with Grad-CAM Visualization
Authors: Oncu Emir
Published: November 2024

Brain cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within the brain, leading to the formation of tumors that can interfere with normal brain function. The current study presents a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model designed for classifying brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) images into four categories: glioma tumor, meningioma tumor, normal brain tissue, and pituitary tumor. The model leverages a dataset of 3,097 MRI images, using advanced data preprocessing techniques such as normalization and augmentation to improve generalization. The CNN architecture, implemented in Python using TensorFlow and Keras, consists of several convolutional layers followed by max-pooling layers, and a final dense layer for classification. Performance metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) were evaluated, with the model achieving an overall accuracy of 97% and robust performance across all classes. Despite this high accuracy, minor misclassifications were observed, particularly between glioma and meningioma tumors, highlighting areas for potential improvement. The model's interpretability was enhanced using Grad-CAM, providing transparency into the regions of the MRI images influencing classification decisions. Furthermore, the model was deployed via a FastAPI server for real-time analysis, with response times averaging 3-5 seconds per prediction. The study emphasizes the potential of CNNs in assisting clinicians with fast, reliable diagnostic support, particularly in distinguishing between different types of brain tumors. Future work will focus on expanding the dataset, refining model performance, and exploring additional interpretability techniques to further improve the system's reliability and applicability in clinical settings.
Novel Double-Layer Alveolar Ridge Preservation Using Collagen Matrix Applied on Periodontally Collapsed Extraction Region: A Proof-of-Concept Case Study
Authors: Kim Yu-Jin , Lee Jong-Bin
Published: November 2024

Alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) is widely used in clinical practice to prevent horizontal and vertical bone loss following tooth extraction. Conventional ARP uses a single coverage material with bone graft materials on a simple tooth extraction site. In a clinical study process comparing our newly attempted ARP with the widely used conventional ARP, we discovered the clinical efficacy of our new ARP for specially selected cases. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of a novel double-layer ARP that additionally covers a collagen matrix at the top position, especially on the periodontally collapsed region following tooth extraction. Because the extraction socket wall has collapsed and the entire ridge needs to be reconstructed, this procedure should be described as alveolar ridge augmentation. Additional coverage of the collagen matrix protected the internal bone grafting and promoted external soft tissue regeneration and healing in sample cases. In conclusion, our procedure promotes the new generation of hard and soft tissues. It is particularly effective in regions requiring flapped surgery, such as areas with periodontal disease, long-span areas requiring multiple tooth extractions, and areas in which there is wide destruction of hard and soft tissues. Through this proof-of-concept case study, we aimed to standardize and evaluate this unprecedented surgical technique.
Smoke Precipitation by Exposure to Dual-Frequency Ultrasonic
Authors: Khmelev Vladimir , Shalunov Andrey , Tsyganok Sergey , Danilov Pavel
Published: November 2024

The conducted analysis has shown that efficiency of smoke precipitation can be improved by additionally making smoke particles interact with ultrasonic (US) oscillations. Because the efficiency of US coagulation lowers when small particles assemble into agglomerates, the authors of this work have suggested to study how smoke particles interact with complex sound fields. The fields are formed by at least two US transducers which work on similar frequency or on frequencies with small deviations. To form these fields, the high-efficiency bending wave ultrasonic transducers has been developed and suggested. It has been shown, that the complex ultrasonic field significantly enhances smoke precipitation. The field in question was constructed by simultaneously emitting 22 kHz US oscillations with sound pressure level not lower than 140 dB at a distance of 1 meter. The US oscillations’ frequencies difference was no more than 300 Hz. Due to the effect of multi-frequency ultrasonic oscillations induced in the experimental smoke chamber it was possible to provide transmissivity value of 0.8 at a distance of 1 meter from the transducers and 0.9 at a distance of 2 meters. Thus, the uniform visibility improvement and complete suppression of incoming smoke was achieved. At the same time, the dual-frequency effect does not require an increase in ultrasonic energy for smoke due to the agglomeration of small particles under the influence of high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations and the further aggregation of the formed agglomerates by creating conditions for their additional rotational movement of the agglomerates by low-frequency vibrations.
A Policy Relevant Study of the Contradiction Between Market Economy and Traditional Socio-Economic Development in the Russian Arctic
Authors: Derendiaeva Olga , Hutton Craig , Edwards Mary
Published: November 2024

The development of the Arctic is a priority for the Russian government as it has great economic potential. However, the benefits for indigenous population are unclear, as economic expansion affects traditional livelihoods and social development, and oil and gas extraction affect the environment, as well as very little is known about the transformations in Russian indigenous communities. In this paper relevant policies and data analysis of economic development are used to identify gaps in the Arctic agenda of the Russian Federation. The research builds on the conceptual foundations of social-environmental frameworks, policy management and livelihoods. Statistical analysis is used to find correlations in socio-economic data published by The Federal State Statistics Service. The authors go on to propose new indicators for the assessment of traditional lifestyles. The results show that despite rapid development of the market economy, as well as an expansion of oil and gas companies’ activity in the Arctic, there are not enough policies to provide redistribution of the revenue to improve indigenous livelihoods. An evaluation of metrics and examination of related legislative documents as well as a literature review also support the idea that indigenous people benefit little from the current socio-economic situation.
Molecular Profiling of A549 Cell-Derived Exosomes: Proteomic, miRNA, and Interactome Analysis towards Identifying Potential Key Regulators in Lung Cancer
Authors: Giannopoulos-Dimitriou Alexandros , Saiti Aikaterini , Malousi Andigoni , Anagnostopoulos Athanasios K. , Vatsellas Giannis , Al-Maghrabi Passant M. , Müllertz Anette , Fatouros Dimitrios G. , Vizirianakis Ioannis S.
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Exosomes, nano-sized extracellular vesicles released by all cells, play a key role in intercellular communication and carry tumorigenic properties that impact surrounding or distant cells. The complexity of the exosomal molecular interactome and its effects on recipient cells still remain unclear. This study aims to decipher the molecular profile and interactome of lung adenocarcinoma A549 cell-derived exosomes using multi-omics and bioinformatics approaches. Methods: We performed comprehensive morphological and physicochemical characterization of exosomes isolated from cell culture supernatant of A549 cells in vitro, using DLS, cryo-TEM, Western blot, and flow cytometry. Proteomic and miRNA high-throughput profiling, coupled with bioinformatics network analysis, were applied to elucidate the exosome molecular cargo. A comparative miRNA analysis was also conducted with exosomes derived from normal lung fibroblast MRC-5 cells. Results: Exosomes exhibited an average size of ~40 nm and disk-shaped lipid bilayer structures, with tetraspanins CD9 and CD63 validated as exosomal markers. Proteomic analysis identified 68 proteins, primarily linked to extracellular matrix organization and metabolic processes. miRNA sequencing revealed 72 miRNAs, notably hsa-miR-619-5p, hsa-miR-122-5p, hsa-miR-9901, hsa-miR-7704, and hsa-miR-151a-3p, which are involved in regulating metabolic processes, gene expression and tumorigenic pathways. Integration of proteomic and miRNA data through a proteogenomics approach, identified dually affected genes, including ERBB2, CD44, and APOE, impacted by both exosomal miRNA targeting and protein interactions, through synergistic or antagonistic interactions. Differential analysis revealed a distinct miRNA profile in A549 exosomes, associated with cancer-related biological processes, compared to MRC-5 exosomes; notably hsa-miR-619-5p emerged as a promising candidate for future clinical biomarker studies. The network analysis also revealed genes targeted by multiple upregulated tumor-associated miRNAs in potential exosome-recipient cells. Conclusions: This integrative study provides insights into the molecular interactome of lung adenocarcinoma A549 cell-derived exosomes, providing a foundation for future research on exosomal cargo and its role in tumor cell communication, growth and progression.
Paradigm Shift in Knowledge Production: A Decolonial Manifesto for Epistemic Justice and Emancipatory Transformation
Authors: Moleka Pitshou
Published: November 2024

This article champions a decolonial praxis that seeks to fundamentally reconfigure the moral, organizational, and institutional foundations of the academic research enterprise. Departing from the Eurocentric rationalities and technocratic orientations that have long defined the modern university, this transformative framework centers the marginalized epistemologies and subaltern knowledge systems of the Global South and Indigenous communities. By excavating the complex histories and ongoing legacies of colonial science, the article lays bare the entrenched power hierarchies and epistemic injustices that have systematically suppressed non-Western ways of knowing. In response, it champions a radical pluralism that empowers diverse epistemes as vital sources of insight, resilience, and emancipatory potential essential for navigating our cascading global crises. Beyond the mere valorization of marginalized knowledge systems, the article also catalyzes a profound reconfiguration of the research enterprise's modalities and organizational structures. By championing collaborative, place-based, and community-embedded modes of knowledge co-production, it directly challenges the extractive, exclusionary, and technocratic tendencies of the traditional university model. Ultimately, this decolonial praxis holds the power to catalyze a radical renewal of the social contract linking academic inquiry and societal transformation - unleashing the emancipatory potential of knowledge in service of global justice, ecological regeneration, and collective flourishing.
Stage-Dependent Fibrotic Gene Profiling of WISP1-Mediated Fibrogenesis in Human Fibroblast
Authors: Singh Kirti , Witek Marta , Brahmabhatt Jaladhi , Thirunavukkarasu Kannan , Oladipupo Sunday S.
Published: November 2024

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common interstitial lung disease with unknown etiology, characterized by chronic inflammation and tissue scarring. Although, Pirfenidone and Nintedanib provide symptomatic relief, no currently available drugs or therapeutic interventions address the underlying cause, highlighting the unmet medical need. Matricellular protein, Wnt-1 induced secreted protein 1 (WISP1) also referred to as CCN4 (cellular communication network factor 4) is a secreted multi-modular protein implicated in multi-organ fibrosis. Although the precise mechanism of WISP1-mediated fibrosis remains unclear, emerging evidence indicates that WISP1 is pro-fibrotic in nature. While WISP1-targeting therapy is in the clinic for fibrosis, detailed interrogation of WISP1-mediated fibrogenic molecular and biological pathways is lacking. Here, for the first time, using NanoString® technology, we identified novel WISP1-associated profibrotic gene signature and molecular pathways potentially involved in the initiation and progression of fibrosis in primary human dermal and lung fibroblasts from both healthy individuals and IPF patients. Our data demonstrate that WISP1 is upregulated in IPF-lung fibroblasts as compared to healthy control. Furthermore, our results confirm that WISP1 is downstream of transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ), and it induces fibroblast cell proliferation. Additionally, WISP1 induced IL6 and CCL2 in fibroblast. We also developed a novel combined TGFβ and WISP1 in vitro system to demonstrate a role for WISP1 in the progression of fibrosis. Overall, our findings uncover not only similarities but also striking differences in the molecular profile of WISP1 in human fibroblasts, both during the initiation and progression phases, as well as in disease-specific context.
Characteristic Length of Meso-Structure as a Physical Fact for a Class of Brittle Materials
Authors: Lu Guangda
Published: November 2024

The recently-proposed nonlocal macro meso-scale consistent damage (NMMD) model has been applied successfully to various static and dynamic fracture problems. The characteristic length in NMMD model, though proved to be necessary for the mesh insensitivity of strain-softening regime, remains to be estimated indirectly with considerable arbitrariness. Such an issue also exists in other nonlocal models, e.g., peridynamics and phase field model. To overcome this obstacle, a series of dog-bone specimens made of polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) material with and without circular defect are investigated in this paper. It is found that NMMD model with the appropriate influence radius can correctly capture the experimentally-observed size effect of defect, which challenges the conventional local criteria without involving characteristic length. In addition to being directly measurable and identifiable in experiments, based on the two-scale mechanism of NMMD model, the characteristic length is also theoretically calibrated to be related to the ratio of fracture toughness to tensile strength of the material. Comparisons with the predictions of other modified nonlocalized criteria involving some kind of characteristic length demonstrate the superior ability of NMMD model to simulate brittle crack initiation and propagation from non-singular boundary. Revalidation of short bending beams demonstrates the theoretical calibration is also suitable for problems of mixed-mode fracture with stress singularity. Although limited to brittle materials like PMMA, the current work could be generalized to analysis of quasi-brittle even ductile fracture in the future.
Metabolic Complete Response of Metastatic Oncogene-Negative, PDL1-Negative Nsclc After Chemo-Immunotherapy and Radiotherapy: A Case Report
Authors: Surgo Alessia , Davì Valerio , Ciliberti Maria Paola , Carbonara Roberta , Caliandro Morena , Di Guglielmo Fiorella Cristina , Sasso Nicola , Calbi Roberto , Gentile Maria Annunziata , Talienti Tiziana , Bruno Isabella , Troia Michele , Bonaparte Ilaria , Ludovico Giuseppe Mario , Surico Giammarco , Fiorentino Alba
Published: November 2024

A 71-year-old male ex-smoker presented in October 2021 to our department with a brain and bone metastatic adenocarcinoma oncogene-negative, PDL1-negative NSCLC. He underwent stereotactic radiotherapy for brain metastases, and then chemotherapy with cisplatin and gemcitabine was administered, followed by immunotherapy with Nivolumab. In July 2022, RT to lung tumor and mediastinal nodal was performed with a total dose of 45Gy in 15 fractions. He continued with immunotherapy until December 2022, when a grade 3-4 toxicity from immunotherapy was ob-served (hypothyroidism, psoriasis, cystitis). He achieved a complete clinical response to the therapy. To date, the patient is alive, with a complete metabolic response, without treatment at 35 months from diagnosis.
Will Dissolved Hydrogen Reveal the Instability of the Anaerobic Digestion Process?
Authors: Platosova Daniela , Rusin Jiri , Svoboda Radek , Vasinkova Marketa
Published: November 2024

Since dissolved hydrogen is a key factor in maintaining the complex balance between microbial species that enable anaerobic digestion, we tested the ratio of dissolved hydrogen concentration to neutralization capacity as a potential alternative to the traditional VFA/TIC (alternatively FOS/TAC) stability indicator. The anaerobic digestion process was carried out in a Terrafors IS rotary drum bioreactor for 150 days at an average temperature of 40°C and an organic volatile load of 0.092 kgm−3 d−1. Corn silage was dosed on weekdays as the substrate. With a theoretical retention time of 45 days, a biogas production of 0.219 Nm3kgVs−1 with a CH4 content of 31.6 % was achieved. The values of the determined VFA/TIC stability indicator ranged from 0.22 to 5.66, with the highest values obtained when the reactor was overloaded. The dissolved hydrogen concentration ranged 0.005–0.196 mgdm−3. The Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.337 and corresponded to a p-value of 0. The Spearman correlation coefficient was 0.468. The amperometric microsensor has proven to be unsuitable for field applications due to its lack of sensitivity and short lifetime. The proposed ratio of dissolved hydrogen concentration to neutralization capacity did not prove to be significantly more effective than the established VFA/TIC indicator.
Cellular Chirality and Cellular Tissue Indexes in Vascular Morphogenesis
Authors: Lungu Claudiu N. , Mehedinti Mihaela C.
Published: November 2024

During embryonic development, angiogenesis and arteriogenesis are responsible for vast growth and remodeling. These processes have distinct mechanisms, like budding, cord hollow-ing, cell hollowing, cell wrapping, and intussusception. This review discusses the diversity of morphogenetic mechanisms contributing to vessel assembly and angiogenic sprouting in blood vessels and how molecular pathways regulate some complex cell behaviors concerning the VEGFR pathway. Also, a particular part is dedicated to the HIF 1α gene. The VEGFR pathway's key components are VEGF receptors VEGFR1, VEGFR2, and VEGFR3. VEGFR2 plays a central role in vascular morphogenesis. VEGF is the primary ligand involved in angiogenesis and arte-riogenesis. Various types of VEGF are in study regarding their therapeutic use. The ultimate goal of the vascular morphogenesis study is to enable the development of organized vascular tissue that presumably might be used to replace the disses-affected one. Cellular chirality—the intrinsic "handedness" of cells in movement, structure, and organization—plays a crucial role in angiogenesis, the process by which new blood vessels develop from old ones. This chiral activi-ty is essential for the directed and patterned organization of endothelial cells during vascular formation and remodeling. In angiogenesis, cellular chirality directs endothelial cells to assume specific orientations and migratory patterns, crucial for the formation of functionally organized blood arteries that provide tissues with needed nutrients and oxygen. Cellular chirality in this environment is affected by multiple mechanisms, including VEGF/VEGFR signaling, mechanical pressures, interactions with the extracellular matrix (ECM), and cytoskeletal movements. Lately, researchers have focused on the molecular control of blood vessel morphogenesis, the study of signaling circuitry implied in vascular morphogenesis, the emerging mechanism of vascular stabilization, and helical vasculogenesis driven by cell chirality.
Numerical Investigation of the Effect of Hot and Cold Fluids on Dental Implants Made of Different Materials
Authors: PILTEN GUZEL Saadet , ARPA Ilknur , Can Omer Faruk , Celik Nevin
Published: November 2024

In this study thermal effects of hot and cold fluids on five teeth in the jawbone, one of which is the main tooth and other four are dental implants, are numerically investigated. Since a typical dental implant consists of an implant body, an abutment and a crown, the implant body and crown may be affected differently when they are made of different materials. Based on this reasoning, the cases where the implant body is made of titanium, zirconium, gold and cobalt and the crown is made of zirconium and porcelain are discussed numerically. It was considered as a positive criterion that the prosthetic implant duo, which was considered to be at body temperature at the beginning, were affected by the temperature under different thermal conditions. Therefore, as thermal conditions, the contact of cold (5 C) and hot (60 C) liquid beverages to the teeth and the effect of cold air (-10 C) contacting to the teeth with the breath taken in a cold air are examined. Numerical solutions are obtained by using commercial software ANSYS-CFX.
Evaluation of Selenium Coating on Titanium Miniplates and Screws – an In Vitro Study
Authors: Ramachandran Vishal , Chandrasekaran Deepak , Chinnasamy Ravindran , Jayakumar Naveen Kumar
Published: November 2024

This in vitro study examined three titanium miniplate systems: Leforte (CMF Leforte system) (Group A), Synthes (DePuy Synthes Co. Zuchwil, Switzerland) (Group B), and Stryker (Stryker Leibinger Inc) (Group C). Each system was divided into control (uncoated) and test (selenium-coated) groups, using 4-hole, 1.5 mm thick plates with 6 mm screws. Surface characteristics and antimicrobial efficacy were assessed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and microbial tests, with statistical analysis via IBM SPSS (version 26). Results showed significant selenium uptake, with uniform uptake in Groups B and C and irregular uptake in Group A. ATR-FTIR indicated chemical changes in the selenium-treated titanium. Group A had the highest scratch resistance (21.156 N) and coating thickness (37.113 μm). All selenium-coated groups demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy (p < 0.05 or 0.016). The findings suggest selenium coating on titanium miniplates improves surface characteristics and antimicrobial efficacy, potentially lowering postoperative infection risks.
Plant Diversity, Productivity, and Soil Nutrient Responses to Different Grassland Degradation Levels in Hulunbuir, China
Authors: Yuxuan Wu , Wang Ping , Hu Xiaosheng , Li Ming , Ding Yi , Peng Tiantian , Zhi Qiuying , Bademu Qiqige , Li Wenjie , Guan Xiao , Li Junsheng
Published: November 2024

The Hulunbuir grasslands are a crucial ecological security barrier in northern China. However, owing to factors such as overgrazing and climate change, it has experienced considerable degradation. Understanding the current state of grassland degradation and elucidating its impact on vegetation-soil relationships is of paramount importance. This study employed a combination of remote sensing monitoring and field surveys to assess the degradation status of the Hulunbuir grasslands. Field surveys were conducted to examine vegetation community structure and soil nutrient status at different degradation stages. Grassland degradation significantly affected the species composition of vegetation communities. As degradation intensified, species richness declined, with the proportion of Gramineae and Legume species decreasing and Asteraceae species increasing. Additionally, the proportion of annual species initially increased and then decreased. Degradation also markedly reduced aboveground, belowground, and litter biomass within the communities. Soil moisture, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, total carbon, total potassium, and hydrolyzable nitrogen contents in non-degraded areas were higher than those in severely degraded areas. Conversely, soil total phosphorus content and bulk density gradually increased with degradation. Nitrate nitrogen and ammonium nitrogen levels in severely degraded soils were significantly higher than those in non-degraded soils. Plant diversity and productivity are linearly correlated in the study area. Under the impact of degradation, soil nutrients were the primary factors influencing ecosystem productivity. Plant diversity had a significant positive impact on soil nutrients but did not significantly affect ecosystem productivity. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the effective management and restoration of degraded grasslands.
Distinguishing True HPV-Driven Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma by QuantiGene™ Molecular-Profiling-Histology Assay from HPV-Unrelated Cases Allows for More Precise Prediction of Prognosis and Possibly Has Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Liang Lili , Kaufmann Andreas Martin , Albers Andreas E. , Taube Eliane T. , Pohl Jonathan , Greve Marla , Schmidt Stephanie
Published: November 2024

Background Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with discordant diagnostic pat-terns of HPV⁺/p16⁻ or HPV⁻/p16⁺ correlate with worse prognosis. This study aims to identify truly HPV-driven HNSCCs using mRNA profiling by QuantiGene Molecu-lar-Profiling-Histology (QG-MPH) assay for more precise etiological diagnosis. Methods Of 97 FFPE samples analyzed, 68 were valid for HPV DNA detection by PCR and quantification of HPV E7 and p16ᴵᴺᴷ⁴ᵃ mRNA using QG-MPH. p16ᴵᴺᴷ⁴ᵃ mRNA expression was then compared with p16 protein expression by immunohistochemistry (p16 IHC). Results Among the 68 cases, 26 (38.2%) showed increased high-risk HPV E7 mRNA expression (hrHPV E7 mRNA⁺), while 37 (54.4%) were hrHPV DNA⁺. The concordance between HPV DNA and mRNA status was 70.1%. Notably, 79.2% of E7 mRNA⁺ cases were p16 IHC⁺, compared to 55.9 % of DNA⁺ cases, demon-strating better concordance between HPV E7 mRNA⁺ status and p16 mRNA expression plus p16 IHC positivity. All patients (19/19) in the HPV E7 mRNA⁺/p16 IHC⁺ group survived the 5-year follow-up, compared to 59.5% (22/37) in the HPV E7 mRNA⁻/p16 IHC⁻ group (p = 0.001). Specifi-cally, the OS rate was 57.1 % (8/14) in the group with discordant HPV DNA and p16 IHC results, compared to 40% (3/5) in the group with discordant HPV E7 mRNA and p16 IHC results. These findings highlight the better outcome for the transcriptionally active HPV cases and indicate the prognostic disadvantage for patients with discordant categories and the advantages for incorpo-rating the molecular mRNA profiling by QG-MPH to p16 IHC in making therapeutic decision and predicting patient outcomes in HNSCC. Conclusion QG-MPH quantification of E7 and p16ᴵᴺᴷ⁴ᵃ mRNA is more precise in identifying truly HPV-driven HNSCC than HPV DNA testing alone or with p16 IHC, enabling improved prognosis prediction and therapeutic deci-sion-making.
Pixel Binning in Digital Radiography Imaging
Authors: Kim Dong Sik
Published: November 2024

In digital radiography imaging, pixel binning is an effective way to reduce the amount of image data for transmission or storage, and is particularly effective for application to dynamic digital radiography detectors for fluoroscopic imaging. Traditional pixel binning methods can be described as the process of downsampling an image that has been processed with a moving average (MA) filter for anti-aliasing purposes. In this paper, the performance of pixel binning is analyzed in terms of the noise power spectrum (NPS), modulation transfer function (MTF), and detective quantum efficiency (DQE) based on theoretical derivations. The performance of the pixel binning method is analyzed by performing theoretical analysis and Monte Carlo simulations through parametric modeling for NPS and MTF. Using x-ray images acquired from direct and indirect conversion detectors, the performances of pixel binning are compared and analyzed. Through theoretical analysis and experiments, we demonstrate that the pixel binning method can approach the DQE performance achieved by downsampling after applying an anti-aliasing filter. However, we found that using a better anti-aliasing filter instead of MA can improve DQE performance, especially for direct conversion detectors.
IL-18 and IL-18BP: A Unique Dyad in Health and Disease
Authors: Novick Daniela
Published: November 2024

Interleukin-18 (IL-18) serves a dual function in the immune system, acting as a "double-edged sword" cytokine. Depending on the microenvironment and timing, IL-18 can either drive harmful inflammation or restore immune homeostasis. Pathologies characterized by elevated IL-18, known as IL-18’opathies, highlight the therapeutic potential for IL-18 blockade. IL-18 Binding Protein (IL-18BP) is one of only four natural cytokine antagonists encoded by a separate gene, distinguishing it from canonical soluble receptors. IL-18BP’s exceptionally high affinity and slow dissociation rate make it an effective regulator of IL-18, essential for maintaining immune balance and influencing disease outcomes, and positions IL-18BP as a promising alternative to more aggressive treatments that carry risks of severe infections and other complications. Tadekinig alfa, the drug form of IL-18BP, represents a targeted therapy that modulates the IL-18/IL-18BP axis, offering a safe adverse-effect-free option. With orphan drug designation, Phase III clinical trial completion, and seven years of compassionate use, Tadekinig alfa holds promise in treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, cancer and genetically-linked disorders. Levels of IL-18, free IL-18 and IL-18BP, may serve as biomarkers for disease severity and therapeutic response. Given its pivotal role in immune balance, the IL-18/IL-18BP dyad has attracted interest from over ten pharmaceutical companies and startups, which are currently developing innovative strategies to either inhibit or enhance IL-18 activity depending on the therapeutic need. The review focuses on the features of the dyad members and screens the therapeutic approaches.
Enhancing Chatbot User Satisfaction: A Machine Learning Approach Integrating Decision Tree, TF-IDF, and BERTopic
Authors: Lu Jiaxin
Published: November 2024

Ensuring that large language models (LLMs) generate responses that resonate with users is critical for successful interactions. This study leverages machine learning techniques to improve chatbot interactions by aligning responses more closely with human preferences. By analyzing the Chatbot Arena dialogue dataset, we identified key features influencing user satisfaction and employed an ensemble model combining Decision Tree, TF-IDF, and BERTopic to enhance prediction accuracy. Our results demonstrate significant improvements in both accuracy and user satisfaction metrics compared to traditional models. This approach addresses the complexities of human-computer dialogue, providing a robust framework for future enhancements. The integration of advanced feature engineering and topic modeling techniques enables the chatbot to generate more contextually relevant and engaging responses, setting a new standard in the field of conversational AI.
Deep Neural Networks for Accurate Depth Estimation with Latent Space Features
Authors: Ahn Hyunsik , Yasir Siddiqui Muhammad
Published: November 2024

Depth estimation plays a pivotal role in advancing human-robot interactions, especially in indoor environments where accurate 3D scene reconstruction is essential for tasks like navigation and object handling. Monocular depth estimation, which relies on a single RGB camera, offers a more affordable solution compared to traditional methods that use stereo cameras or LiDAR. However, despite recent progress, many monocular approaches struggle with accurately defining depth boundaries, leading to less precise reconstructions. In response to these challenges, this study introduces a novel depth estimation framework that leverages latent space features within a deep convolutional neural network to enhance the precision of monocular depth maps. The proposed model features dual encoder-decoder architecture, enabling both color-to-depth and depth-to-depth transformations. This structure allows for refined depth estimation through latent space encoding. To further improve the accuracy of depth boundaries and local features, a new loss function is introduced. This function combines latent loss with gradient loss, helping the model maintain the integrity of depth boundaries. The framework is thoroughly tested using the NYU Depth V2 dataset, where it sets a new benchmark, particularly excelling in complex indoor scenarios. The results clearly show that this approach effectively reduces depth ambiguities and blurring, making it a promising solution for applications in human-robot interaction and 3D scene reconstruction.
Characterization of Serum Cytokine Patterns in Frequent-Exacerbation Asthma: Implications for Phenotyping and Management
Authors: Dao Bang Ngoc , Pham The Dac , Pham Nhung Thi Kim , Nguyen Dung Tien , Bach Tuan Quoc , Vu Duong Minh , Le Hien Dieu Thi , Ba Thang Ta
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: Asthma exacerbations represent significant clinical events, yet the underlying inflammatory mechanisms and cytokine profiles in patients with frequent exacerbations remain incompletely understood; (2) Methods: In this prospective, cross-sectional study of 120 stable asthma patients, we compared serum concentrations of eight key cytokines (IL-4, IL-12, IL-13, IL-17, IFN-α, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-1β) between two groups: 60 patients with frequent exacerbations (≥2/year) and 60 matched controls with few exacerbations (1/year); (3) Results: Patients with frequent exacerbations showed significantly higher serum concentrations of IL-4 and IL-13 (p < 0.05), along with increased prevalence of allergic history and comorbidities (chronic rhinosinusitis, GERD, OSA; all p < 0.05). IgE levels correlated positively with IFN-α (rh = 0.26) and TNF-α (rh = 0.29), while FeNO levels correlated with IL-17 (rh = 0.26) and IL-1β (rh = 0.33) (all p < 0.05); (4) Conclusions: Our findings identify a distinct cytokine signature in frequent exacerbators characterized by elevated IL-4 and IL-13 levels. The correlations between specific cytokines and established biomarkers suggest potential mechanisms underlying exacerbation susceptibility, which may inform targeted therapeutic strategies for this high-risk population.
The Role of Rolling Corals and Free-Living Calcifying Coralline Algae in the Management of Greenhouse Gas CO2 in the Colombian Caribbean
Authors: Marin Dairo H. , Gómez Carlos E. , Sánchez Juan A.
Published: November 2024

The ongoing increase in anthropogenic CO₂ emissions since the industrial revolution has accelerated ocean acidification (OA) by introducing CO₂ into seawater, forming carbonic acid and reducing pH levels. This acidification threatens marine calcifiers by weakening their capacity to build calcium carbonate structures and promoting the dissolution of existing skeletons. Nonetheless, calcifying organisms may contribute to mitigating OA effects. This study explores the roles of corals (rolling Siderastrea radians, a seagrass dweller) and free-living calcifying coralline algae (back reef) in CO₂ mitigation in seawater. Field experiments were conducted on Isla Grande (Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park, Colombian Caribbean), to observe the diel variations in photosynthesis and calcification of these uncommon reef builders across different times of the day. Results demonstrate diel shifts influenced by photosynthesis/respiration and calcification/dissolution, with free-living coralline algae exhibiting higher productivity and calcification rates than corals during the day. Notably, free-living coralline algae displayed pronounced hysteresis, reflecting high sensitivity to light. These findings underscore the significant role of free-living coralline algae in marine carbon cycling, suggesting a more substantial impact on CO₂ mitigation than previously recognized. Conserving free-living coralline algae and their habitats is thus critical for supporting marine ecosystem health and resilience amidst global change, warranting further research into their metabolic responses to inform conservation strategies.
Dividends, Labor Remuneration, and Worker Shares in Worker Cooperatives
Authors: Tortia Ermanno C.
Published: November 2024

This paper analyzes the possibility of creating worker cooperatives in which members are not paid through wages, but through dividends calculated on the residual income of the organization, as envisaged by Ward's (1958) model of the labor-managed firm. It is shown how this solution makes it possible to link dividends paid to members to the value of their financial stake in the firm's capital, even in the absence of a market for the firm's shares. The introduction of a share market allows to issue and allocate cooperative shares both to members and to external non-member investors, which may solve the problem of undercapitalization of worker cooperatives. The last section analyzes the criteria of distributive equity of labor income and cooperative shares among members, hypothesizing that the maximin criterion or Rawlsian difference principle is the most appropriate distributive principle for democratic and collective governance in worker cooperatives, which may imply effects of reduction of wealth and income inequality at the macroeconomic level.
Postharvest Practices and Farmers Knowledge in Managing Maize Pests in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Gumede Bongumusa Charles , Kuria Simon Kamande
Published: November 2024

This study aims to establish the pest management approach for pests of stored maize and determine the current control practices. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered to 77 smallholder farmers from 16 villages at King Sabata Dalindyebo local municipality in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Results revealed that metal tanks tend to be the most preferred (81.82%) storage facility for storing maize. The study found that Sitophilus zeamaisi Motschulsky and Sitotroga cerealella (Olivier) were the major storage insect pests of maize. Farmers reported managing these pests using inorganic pesticide (84.42%) namely aluminium phosphide. The continued indiscriminate use of this pesticide in protecting stored maize in this region could be a health hazard to humans and may result in the development of pest resistance.
A Comprehensive Review of Environmental and Economic Impact of Sustainable Polymers Adoption in Reducing Carbon Emissions and Resource Use
Authors: Almansour Faris H , Alyami Geamel H , Almansour Abdullah O
Published: November 2024

This paper aims to nurture the need to find an ecological solution to the use of conventional plastic materials, which has risen to be a threat to the environment and economic activities due to increased carbon emissions and the depletion of resources. It looks at the possibility of using sustainable polymers (SPs), which offer many benefits over traditional polymers in terms of carbon footprint and resource usage. The study then systematically analyzes how the technological developments in renewable energy (RE) deployment and circular economy have informed integration with SP production, including cost recoveries and potential for generating employment in sustainable sectors. However, there is also information on the impediments that prevent the broader application of nanomaterials: the high cost of fabrication, the unsuitable characteristics of most materials, and supply chain issues. The paper ends with a proposal for future research works on polymer degradation, the manufacturing cost of SPs, and the incorporation of carbon capture to make the application of SPs favorable economically and ecologically in different industries.
Impact of Process and Machine Parameters in the Charging Section on the Triboelectric Separation of Wheat Flour in a Vertical Separator
Authors: Miller Xaver , Schugmann Martin , Foerst Petra
Published: November 2024

Triboelectric separation is recently investigated as novel process for dry enrichment and separation of protein of various crops like wheat flour. The triboelectric effect allows for the separation of starch and protein particles in an electric field based on their different charging behavior despite having a similar density and size distribution. Particles are first triboelectrically charged in a charging section before they are separated in an electric field based on their polarity. The charging section plays a crucial role, however the influence of process parameters still remains largely unexplored. Thus, the influence of the charging sections’ dimensions, and the particle-gas-ratio as process key parameters were investigated experimentally. Changing the length of the charging section showed no clear correlation on protein enrichment during separation. In contrast, separation was clearly influenced by varying the diameter, indicating that the charging behavior of particles is influenced by the diameter and thus the Reynolds number. Changes in the mass flow of flour also changed the separation behavior, suggesting that the particle-gas-ratio influences the charging of the particles and the separability of protein. The results show that the electrostatic agglomeration behavior of oppositely charged particles is directly affected by alterations in machine parameters. These agglomerates are (mainly) uncharged and, therefore, cannot be separated in the electric field.
Whole Exome Sequencing Facilitates Early Diagnosis of Lesch-Nyhan Syndrome: Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Fang Hung-Hsiang , Lee Chung-Lin , Chen Hui-Ju , Chuang Chih-Kuang , Chiu Huei-Ching , Chang Ya-Hui , Tu Yuan-Rong , Lo Yun-Ting , Lin Hsiang-Yu , Lin Shuan-Pei
Published: November 2024

Background
Lesch-Nyhan syndrome (LNS) is a rare X-linked recessive metabolic disorder caused by mutations in the HPRT1 gene, resulting in hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT) deficiency. Early diagnosis is critical for optimizing management and improving outcomes. This study presents a case series of three Taiwanese patients diagnosed at a single medical center.
Methods
This case series involved three male patients with LNS. Exome sequencing and biochemical testing were used to confirm the diagnoses. Early clinical manifestations including hyperuricemia, hypotonia, and developmental delay were documented during the initial stages of the disease.
Results
All three patients had hyperuricemia, hypotonia, spasticity, and motor developmental delay. Pathogenic variants in the HPRT1 gene were identified in two patients, while the third was confirmed by biochemical testing. Two patients had orange-colored crystalline deposits in their diapers, indicative of hyperuricosuria. Self-injurious behavior had not yet developed in two patients due to their young age.
Conclusions
Early clinical features such as hyperuricemia, hypotonia, and motor delay may suggest LNS in infancy. Molecular genetic testing, particularly whole exome sequencing, can facilitate an early diagnosis before specific manifestations occur, enabling timely interventions and improving patient outcomes.
ANALISIS KONTRIBUSI KEPADATAN KENDARAAN BERMOTOR TERHADAP KONSENTRASI KARBON MONOKSIDA (CO) DAN TINGKAT KEBISINGAN DI JALAN SLAMET RIYADI SURAKARTA
Authors: Anggitan Titis , Bugis Husin , Rohman Ngatou
Published: November 2024

In the current era, the transportation is growing rapidly. It has an impact such as air and noise pollution. Carbon monoxide is one of the dangerous pollutants. While the noise comes from the sound of the vehicle engine, horn, and exhaust. Slamet Riyadi street Surakarta is a protocol road that has a high level of vehicle density. So it is necessary to conduct research with the aim of knowing the effect of motor vehicle density on carbon monoxide concentrations and noise levels. The results showed that the concentration of Carbon monoxide on Slamet Riyadi street Surakarta in the morning and evening exceeded the quality standard of 16038.26 µg/Nm3and 16141.58 µg/Nm3. During the day it is still below the quality standard, which is 9425.86 µg/Nm3. Meanwhile, the daytime noise level on Slamet Riyadi street Surakarta which is calculated by the Leq formula also exceeds the quality standard of 82.33 dBA.
Rate Adaptation Based on Loss in WLAN for Smart City Applications
Authors: Jayapalan Sandeep , C Smera
Published: November 2024

The evolution of networking technologies has enabled us to connect devices, people, things, and infrastructures. This has promoted urban development by enabling technologies for building smart cities. The scope for developing more featured applications has got a boom in the IT industries. Enabling technologies like Wi-Fi had an integral role in smart cities with their advanced features and low cost of implementation. To cope with the user requirements and technological changes IEEE 802.11 standard for Wi-Fi timely introduces new amendments. The increasing complexity of the latest amendments with a wide range of rates leads rate selection to a difficult task. The IEEE 802.11 standards did not specify any methods for rate selection. Researchers have come up with different rate selection algorithms to resolve this problem. However, the complex nature, huge time consumption, and real time implementation difficulties make it less effective. This paper proposes a rate adaptation algorithm based on smart usage of block-acknowledgment and signal strength. Simulation result from NS3 shows that the proposed rate adaptation method improves the performance, based on packet delivery ratio, delay, and throughput compared with the recent RaCA algorithm.
Particle Swarm optimization based Mobile Sink Routing Protocol in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Hongzhi Wang , deng yuhuan , Huangshui Hu , Ke Liu , Xinji Fan
Published: November 2024

With the continuous application of Internet of Things (IoT) technology, cluster-based wireless sensor networks have been the popular solutions for energy saving. However, it commonly faces the challenge of hot spot problem. Hence, designing an efficient and energy-conserving routing strategy for networks is crucial. Static base stations consume considerable energy in routing. Therefore, this paper proposes a cluster routing protocol integrating a mobile sink, aiming to achieve a balanced distribution of energy consumption and maximize network lifetime. Initially, a weighted function is designed based on residual energy, inter-node distance, and node centrality to select Cluster Heads (CH). Subsequently,combining Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm, paths are planned for the mobile sink (MS) to efficiently traverse and collect data from the CHs. Additionally, Differential Evolution (DE) is incorporated to prevent the algorithm from falling into local optima. Simulation results demonstrate that compared to other algorithms, the proposed approach consumes less energy and extends the network's lifetime.