bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cone Beam Computed Tomography Panoramic Mandibular Indices in the Screening of Postmenopausal Women with Low Bone Mass: Correlations with Bone Quantity and Quality
Authors: Poiana Ioana Ruxandra , Burcea Iulia Florentina , Pituru Silviu Mirel , Bucur Alexandru
Published: July 2024

Objective. The present study examined the potential use of computed tomography panoramic mandibular indices on cone beam CT (CBCT) for the assessment of bone density in postmenopausal women with low bone mass.
Study design. We enrolled 104 postmenopausal women who performed dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) using a DXA scanner and mental foramen region CBCT using NewTom VGi EVO Cone Beam 3D system. We assessed the relationship between DXA parameters: lumbar, femoral neck and total hip T score, bone mineral density (BMD), and lumbar trabecular bone score (TBS) and the panoramic mandibular indices: computed tomography mandibular index superior (CTI(S)), computed tomography mandibular index inferior (CTI(I)) and computed tomography mental index (CTMI).
Results. We found important correlations between the CTI(I), CTI(S) and CTMI and bone mass, quantitative evaluated as BMD and T-score and also quality using TBS score.
Conclusion. CBCT measured indices CTI(S), CTI(I), CTMI are useful in assessing patients with low bone mass.
Sydney Reporting System for Lymph Node Fine Needle Aspiration and Malignancy Risk Stratification, Is it of Clinical Value?
Authors: Alqaidy Doaa
Published: July 2024

Lymphadenopathy is a common manifestation of both reactive and malignant diseases, and fine needle aspiration (FNA) is an effective and inexpensive screening method. It can prevent unnecessary invasive surgery and excisional biopsy, especially in benign cases. Unfortunately, the lack of universally accepted terminology for reporting results has hindered its widespread support. The Sydney system proposal for lymph node cytopathology categorization and reporting introduced five diagnostic categories to address the lack of universally accepted terminology for reporting results in lymphadenopathy. Our study analyzed 188 lymph node FNC samples from King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Saudi Arabia, examining clinical follow-up data, pathology records, patient information, and final diagnosis from January 2019 to December 2022. Most specimens were from axillary LNs, with 99.5% tissue correlation. The Sydney System Category classification identified 56.9% of cases as malignant, while 26.1% were benign. The final surgical specimen diagnosis revealed a higher percentage of malignant diagnoses, with the highest ROM in malignant/Category V. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that LN-FNAC offers high diagnostic accuracy for LN aspirates, with the Sydney approach potentially aiding risk stratification and achieving consistency in cytologic diagnosis, but further multi-centric research is needed.
Key Drivers of Consumption, Conceptual, Sensory, and Emotional Profiling of Cheeses Based on Origin and Consumer Familiarity: A Case Study of Local and Imported Cheeses in Greece
Authors: Panagiotou Malamatenia , Kaloudis Efstathios , Koukoumaki Danai Ioanna , Bountziouka Vasiliki , Giannakou Evangelia , Pandi Margarita , Gkatzionis Konstantinos
Published: July 2024

The origin of a product, consumer familiarity, and purchasing identity are factors that affect perception of cheese consumption. The present study aims at identifying consumers’ conceptualizations and attitudes towards local Greek cheeses of the North-Aegean Sea islands, such as Ladotyri, Graviera, Kasseri, Kaskavali, Melichloro, and Kalathaki, some of which have a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, as opposed to cheeses of non-Greek origin, such as Cheddar, Regatto, and Gouda. Sensory and emotional attributes of local, local PDO, and imported cheeses, and drivers associated with consumers’ choice and acceptance above and beyond their sensory attributes were studied, using three methods: a) Flash Profile to gain insight into the sensory positioning of products and description of samples, b) qualitative analysis of focus groups to pinpoint consumer knowledge, preference, and consumption criteria, and c) a new methodology for natural language processing and sentiment analysis of social media posts to determine consumer conceptualizations. Social media posts have proven to be a valuable source of linguistic and cultural data for cheeses. Local cheeses, including PDO products, were found to be linked to village life and family gatherings, home, tradition, and childhood memories, with saltiness and hardness being their main sensory attributes. Imported cheeses were linked to fast food, pizza, and snacking, with elasticity and gumminess as prominent sensory qualities. The main criterion of purchase was intended usage and versatility, taste and texture, price, and familiarity. The findings provide key sensory attributes, information about consumer purchasing criteria, and relevant vocabulary for the promotion of cheeses as agri-food and gastronomic identity key products.
Association of Vitamin A and Iron Supplementation on Major Clinical of Infectious Diseases in Ghanaian Children: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Nyame Linda , Li Ying , Fiagbey Emmanuel D.K. , Xue Hui , Fan Lijun , Du Wei
Published: July 2024

Background: The utilization of nutrient supplementation as a tool to address issues such as iron and vitamin A deficiencies among children in Sub–Saharan Africa (SSA) has been beneficial. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of evidence on the effect of vitamin A and iron supplementation on infectious diseases in pre–school children in SSA. We aimed to assess the association of vitamin A and iron supplementation on the incidence of major clinical features of infectious diseases (diarrhea, cough, and fever) in children aged 6–59 months in Ghana. Methods: A cross–sectional study that utilized data from the Ghana Demographic and Health Survey, involving a sample size of 2,408 children. The collected data was analyzed using binomial logistic regression. Results: Dual supplementation with vitamin A and iron was associated with an increased risk of fever (OR: 1.68 95% CI: 1.22–2.32) and cough (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.02–1.99) in children 6–59 months. Iron supplementation alone was associated with an increased risk of fever (OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.01–1.72) while Vitamin A alone significantly increased the risk of diarrhea (OR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.03–2.92). Conclusions: Dual supplementation of vitamin A and iron is associated with an increase in childhood morbidity, endorsement of combined supplementation should be done with caution.
Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair of the Mitral Valve in Four Dogs
Authors: Petchdee Soontaree , Pongkan Wanpitak , Lei Jing , Jaturanratsamee Kotchapol , Bootcha Ratikorn , Meepoo Wannisa , Panprom Chattida
Published: July 2024

Mitral valve disease is a common heart disease in dogs. The aim of this study was to describe the cases of dogs who underwent mitral valve repair using a v-clamp device and to provide their long-term follow-up data on cardiac function after mitral valve repair. Four dogs with mitral valve regurgitation who experienced coughing and dyspnea underwent surgical mitral valve repair between December 2023 and June 2024. The patients were evaluated by transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography. Echocardiography revealed mitral valve leaflet regurgitation. Mitral valve repair was performed under general anesthesia using a v-clamp device introduced through an introducer wire guide. Echocardiography was conducted at baseline and the 6-month follow-up. Blood analysis results after surgical repair were normal. Follow-up echocardiography revealed no complications related to the procedure, with all dogs demonstrating improved respiratory signs and quality of life after repair. No adverse reactions were reported after surgery. A v-clamp device was used to repair mitral valve regurgitation in four dogs. Mitral valve repair using a v-clamp device is another treatment option for mitral valve disease in dogs.
Retrospective Longitudinal Observational Study on The Long-Term Effects of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors on The Development of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in Type 2 Diabetic Japanese Patients
Authors: Katsuyama Hisayuki , Horinaka Seiichi , Hakoshima Mariko , Adachi Hiroki , Yanai Hidekatsu
Published: July 2024

Background/Objectives: The global burden of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is increasing at an alarming rate. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality in MASLD patients, therefore, the therapeutic interventions for MASLD should improve coronary risk factors such as obesity, diabetes and dyslipidemia, in addition to improving liver function. The evidence on effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) which have beneficial pharmacological properties for MASLD, especially the long-term effects, on the progression of MASLD in Asian population is very limited. Methods: The retrospective longitudinal study was performed by using the medical records at the National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Kohnodai Hospital, Japan. We picked up patients with type 2 diabetes who had taken SGLT2is for at least 3 years or longer between April 1, 2014 and March 31, 2018. We collected the data on metabolic parameters, including blood tests and anthropometric parameters, and compared the data before and after the initiation of SGLT2is treatment. Results: During the observation period, 324 patients had taken SGLT2is for 3 years. The 3-year-SGLT2is treatment significantly reduced body weight, hemoglobin A1c, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglyceride and non-high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and significantly increased HDL-C. Furthermore, this treatment significantly improved liver function and the markers for hepatic steatosis and hepatic fibrosis. Conclusions: Considering that the development of CVD determines the prognosis of MASLD patients, the long-term SGLT2is treatment may be an ideal therapy for MASLD patients.
Integrating Computational Design and Experimental Approaches for Next-Generation Biologics
Authors: Son Ahrum , Park Jongham , Kim Woojin , Lee Wonseok , Yoon Yoonki , Kim Hyunsoo
Published: July 2024

Therapeutic protein engineering has revolutionized medicine by enabling the development of highly specific and potent treatments for a wide range of diseases. This review examines recent advances in computational and experimental approaches for engineering improved protein therapeutics. Key areas of focus include antibody engineering, enzyme replacement therapies, and cytokine-based drugs. Computational methods like structure-based design, machine learning integration, and protein language models have dramatically enhanced our ability to predict protein properties and guide engineering efforts. Experimental techniques such as directed evolution and rational design approaches continue to evolve, with high-throughput methods accelerating the discovery process. Applications of these methods have led to breakthroughs in affinity maturation, bispecific antibodies, enzyme stability enhancement, and the development of conditionally active cytokines. Emerging approaches like intracellular protein delivery, stimulus-responsive proteins, and de novo designed therapeutic proteins offer exciting new possibilities. However, challenges remain in predicting in vivo behavior, scalable manufacturing, immunogenicity mitigation, and targeted delivery. Addressing these challenges will require continued integration of computational and experimental methods, as well as a deeper understanding of protein behavior in complex physiological environments. As the field advances, we can anticipate increasingly sophisticated and effective protein therapeutics for treating human diseases.
Operational Analysis of a Video Game Management and Sales Platform
Authors: Maquera Andrade Aldair Jose , Torres Cruz, Fred
Published: July 2024

This study provides an evaluation of a web-based platform for game management and sales, developed using PHP, MySQL, and SASS. The development process utilized the SCRUM methodology, concentrating on essential modules such as user management, game catalog, payment processing, and technical support. The platform's performance was assessed using Google's Lighthouse tool, which evaluates four critical areas: performance, accessibility, best practices, and SEO. The results demonstrated exceptional performance with a score of 99/100 and perfect adherence to best practices with a score of 100/100, reflecting high efficiency and compliance with web development standards. Accessibility received a score of 83/100, indicating potential areas for improvement, while SEO achieved a score of 91/100, suggesting effective search engine optimization. The findings reveal that the platform exhibits high levels of optimization and operational efficiency. However, there remains an opportunity to enhance accessibility features. This study highlights the significance of rigorous web development practices and optimization efforts in achieving superior performance and user experience in web-based systems.
Oxylipins in Aqueous Humor of Primary Open Angle Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Xu Jianming , Zhou Kewen , Fu Changzhen , Chen Chong-Bo , Sun Yaru , Wen Xin , Yang Luxi , Tsz Kin Ng , Liu Qingping , Zhang Mingzhi
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE: To investigate the oxylipin profiles in aqueous humor of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients.
METHODS: Aqueous humor samples were collected from 17 POAG patients and 15 cataract subjects and subjected to the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis to detect the oxylipins. The prediction potential of the differential abundant oxylipins was assessed by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Pathway and correlation analyses on the oxylipins and clinical and biochemical parameters were also conducted.
RESULTS: The LC-MS analysis detected a total of 76 oxylipins, of which 29 oxylipins reached the detection limit. The multivariate analysis identified 5 differential abundant oxylipins, 15-keto-prostaglandin F2 alpha (15-kPGF2α), Leukotriene B4 (LTB4), 12,13-Epoxyoctadecenoic acid (12,13-Epome), 15-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15-HETE) and 11-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (11-HETE). The 5 oxylipins are enriched in the arachidonic acid metabolism and linoleic acid metabolism pathways. Pearson correlation analysis showed that 11-HETE was positively correlated with intraocular pressure and central corneal thickness and negatively with cup/disk ratio in the POAG patients. In addition, 15-kPGF2α was positively correlated with visual field defect, and LTB4 was negatively correlated with macular thickness. 
CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed the oxylipin profile in the aqueous humor of POAG patients. Oxylipins involved in arachidonic acid metabolism pathway could play a role in POAG and anti-inflammatory therapies could be potential treatment strategies for POAG.
Construction and Case Analysis of Comprehensive Evaluation System of Rural Building Energy Consumption from Energy-Building-Behavior Composite Perspective
Authors: Xu Zhong , Wang Xiaoqi , Tang Siqi , Yang Yan , Chen Yuhao
Published: July 2024

A comprehensive evaluation system of rural building energy consumption from the innovative composite perspective was established, which was suitable for southwest of China. The index system was established by Brainstorming method and Delphi method, the weights of the comprehensive evaluation model were calculated by Network Process (ANP) method, the scoring criteria of all evaluation indexes were leveld based on fuzzy evaluation theory. The system model was verified by case analysis, at the countryside around Chengdu Second Circle. With the highest weight, lowest comprehensive score, and broadest range of comprehensive scores taken into consideration, three key factors affecting the target layer, namely "Percentage of Clean Energy Use", "Thermal Performance of Exterior Walls", and "Implementation Rate of Energy saving Measures". The distribution of comprehensive indicators and evaluation factors has certain spatial distribution characteristics, and the overall spatial distribution shows a characteristic of "high in the southeast and low in the northwest". Finally, Based on key factors and regional distribution characteristics, energy-saving measures have been proposed from three aspects: increasing sunrooms, adding wall insulation layers, and standardizing air conditioning temperature settings.
Real-World Evidence of the Effectiveness and Safety of Ciclopirox 8% HPCH Nail Lacquer Combined with Oral Antifungals for Onychomycosis Applying Artificial Intelligence to Electronic Health Records
Authors: Roustan Gaston , López Estébaranz José Luis , De La Cueva Pablo , Research Group Savana , Pajuelo Francesca , Tamarit María Luisa , Valmaseda Aida , Galván Jordi
Published: July 2024

A multicenter retrospective analysis of 408 patients diagnosed with onychomycosis and attended at three tertiary care Spanish hospitals was conducted to assess the effectiveness and safety of a combined treatment with ciclopirox 8% hydroxypropyl chitosan (CPX 8% HPCH) nail lacquer and oral antifungal agents (terbinafine, itraconazole, and fluconazole). Data were extracted and analyzed using the EHRead® technology based on natural language processing and machine learning and using SNOMED CT terminology. The median age was 51 years with a ratio male: female close to 1. Repeated nail trauma was the most common risk factor (7.1%). More than half of patients (56.6%) underwent fungal culture. Terbinafine was used in 67.7% of patients, itraconazole in 20.8%, and fluconazole in 11.5%. Treatment synchronicity distribution revealed that 59.1% of patients started concomitant treatment with CPX 8% HPCH and oral antifungals, 27.9% had initial oral antifungals, and 13% had initial nail lacquer. The response to treatment (positive response 15.7%, presumed positive 59.8%) was unrelated to treatment synchronicity or type of antifungal agent. Erythema (5.6%), diarrhea (4.9%) and fever (4.2%) were the most frequently registered potential adverse events. The present findings provide valuable insights for physicians paving the way for better management of patients with onychomycosis.
Tiny Residual Networks
Authors: Singh Shubham , Khatri Inder , Zhou Xu
Published: July 2024

This study presents the Distilled MixUp Squeeze ResNet (DMSResNet), an optimized variant of the Residual Network architecture designed for high accuracy and computational efficiency. By integrating Squeeze-and-Excitation blocks, MixUp data augmentation, and knowledge distillation, it achieves competitive performance within strict parameter constraints and limited training resources. Evaluated on the CIFAR-10 dataset, the model attains a 96.56% accuracy with only 4.3 million total parameters. The results demonstrate that optimization of established architectures can yield performance comparable to newer models, especially in resource-limited scenarios. This work contributes to the development of efficient deep learning models for applications in constrained computational environments.
Modulation of Integrin αvβ3 Activation and Signaling in BV-2 Microglial Cells and THP-1 Monocytes by Thyroid Hormones
Authors: Gionfra Fabio , D'Ezio Veronica , De Luca Roberto , Candelotti Elena , Leone Stefano , Percario Zulema , Persichini Tiziana , Colasanti Marco , Affabris Elisabetta , Lin Hung -Yun , Davis Paul J. , Pedersen Jens Z. , Incerpi Sandra
Published: July 2024

Much evidence now indicates a direct crosstalk between thyroid hormones (THs) and the immune system. We previously showed that THs behave as anti-inflammatory agents in human leukemic THP-1 monocytes, but a potential neuroprotective effect of THs in microglia have been under-investigated. Microglia, the primary innate immune cells of the brain, play a pivotal role in the regulation of neuroinflammation and nongenomic integrin αvβ3-mediated action of THs appear to be involved. Integrin αvβ3 was highly expressed in activated BV-2 cells, while it was decreased by THs. In addition, THs facilitated wound healing in BV-2 murine microglia cells activated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), through integrin αvβ3 and reactive oxygen species (ROS), with tetrac (a metabolite of TH) potentiated the inhibition of migration. Nitric oxide (NO) played a role with different mechanisms in the presence of either T3 or T4. Our data showed the capability of TH and analogues to modulate the M1-to-M2 microglial transition and suggest a new spectrum of actions in the central nervous system (CNS).
Association of the rs9896052 Polymorphism Upstream of GRB2 With Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy in Patients With Less Than 10 Years of Diabetes
Authors: Bastos Caroline Moura Cardoso , Machado Lucas Marcelo da Silva , Crispim Daisy , Canani Luís Henrique , dos Santos Kátia Gonçalves
Published: July 2024

Growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (GRB2) is a negative regulator of insulin signaling and positive regulator of angiogenesis. Its expression is increased in a mouse model of retinal neovascularization and in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This case-control study aimed to investigate the association between the rs9896052 polymorphism (A>C) upstream of GRB2 and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) in patients with T2DM from Southern Brazil, taking into consideration self-reported skin color (white or non-white) and the known duration of diabetes (< 10 years or ≥ 10 years). Genotypes were determined using real-time PCR in 838 patients with T2DM (284 cases with PDR and 554 controls without DR). In the total study group and in the analysis stratified by skin color, the genotype and allele frequencies were similar between the cases and controls. However, among patients with less than 10 years of diabetes, the C allele was more frequent in cases than in controls (63.3% versus 51.8%, p = 0.032), and the CC genotype was independently associated with an increased risk of PDR (adjusted OR = 2.82, 95% CI 1.17-6.75). In conclusion, our findings support the hypothesis that the rs9896052 polymorphism near GRB2 is associated with PDR in Brazilian patients with T2DM.
Noninvasive, Drug Augmented, Ultra Low Intensity Transcranial Light Photodynamic Treatment of Glioblastoma: LIT-PDT
Authors: KAST RICHARD E. , Milla Sanabria Laura , Kast Anton P , Barros da Silva Jr Erasmo
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the rationale for using ultra low intensity transcranial light photodynamic treatment (LIT-PDT) for treating glioblastoma. Glioblastoma is currently treated with maximal safe resection, temozolomide and ionizing irradiation. Mortality in 2024 remains at over 80% within several years from diagnosis. 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is a heme precursor that is selectively taken up preferentially by malignant cells, including glioblastoma. Photon energy can be transduced to molecular oxygen by a 5-ALA metabolite, PpIX, transforming oxygen to the singlet state, a reactive oxygen species (ROS) that destroys or damages vital glioblastoma cell structures. In PDT, light energy ~ 100 to 200 J / cm2, at 630 nm is delivered intraoperatively after resection and preoperative oral 5-ALA. This generates ROS cytotoxicity in residual glioblastoma cells within the resection cavity wall. 630 nm light poorly penetrates skin, skull, and brain tissue. That currently restricts PDT to a single intraoperative session using high flux light. LIT-PDT addresses some current shortcomings of 5-ALA PDT treatment. Part 1 analyzes published data indicating that continuous ultra low light flux, 17 μW / cm2, over 24 hours for a total delivery of 1.5 J / cm2, is effective for 5-ALA PDT treatment. That opens the way for repetitive, extracranial light to deliver enough energy for low flux, long duration PDT to any deep brain structure using less than 12 W total distributed over the entire scalp area. In Part 2, by analysis of 5-ALA and PpIX physiology, it became apparent that four non oncology drugs - ciprofloxacin, deferiprone, telmisartan and ziprasidone, will increase energy capture by GB cells, thereby increasing PDT treatment cytotoxicity. A phased pilot study of LIT-PDT treatment is being planned.
Investigating the Effect of Bacilli and Lactic Acid Bacteria on Water Quality, Growth, Survival, Immune Response and Intestinal Microbiota of Cultured Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Vega-Carranza Ana Sofía , Escamilla-Montes Ruth , Fierro-Coronado Jesús Arturo , Diarte-Plata Genaro , García-Gutiérrez Cipriano , Guo Xianwu , Luna-González Antonio
Published: July 2024

Shrimp is the most important aquaculture industry. Therefore, we determined the effect of nitrifying-probiotic bacteria on water quality, growth, survival, immune response and intestinal microbiota of Litopenaeus vannamei cultured without water exchange. In vitro, only B. licheniformis used TAN, nitrites and nitrates since nitrogen bubbles were produced. TAN decreased significantly in the treatments with bacilli and LAB, but no differences were observed in nitrites. Nitrates were significantly higher in the treatments with bacteria. The final weight and survival of shrimp in the bacterial treatments increased significantly and superoxide anion increased significantly only in LAB treatment. The activity of phenoloxidase decreased significantly in the treatment with LAB and with the mixture of bacilli and LAB. Shrimp treated with bacilli in the water showed lower species richness. The gut bacterial community after treatments was significantly different from that of the control. Linoleic acid metabolism was positively correlated with final weight and superoxide anion, whereas quorum sensing was correlated with survival. Thus, bacilli and LAB in the water of hyperintensive culture systems act as nitrifers, modulate the intestinal microbiota and immune response, and improve the growth and survival of shrimp. This is the first report on Pediococcus pentosaceus and Leuconostoc mesenteroides as nitrifying bacteria.
Production Optimization of Premium Food Can with Distortion Printing under Waving Requirement
Authors: Chuchot Natthawat , Thanakijkasem Purit
Published: July 2024

This research aims to propose a novel approach to evaluate and minimize the scrap rate in the industrial production of premium food cans with distortion printing. Beyond cost considerations, a critical aspect of modern food can manufacturing is the aesthetic quality of the graphical display. In addition to traditional formability requirements, a waving requirement is defined. Detailed real production conditions are provided and discussed. The material of interest is a double cold-reduced (DR) low-carbon steel sheet and chromium-coated tin-free steel with a thickness of 0.16 mm. These sheets are laminated on both sides with PET film before distortion printing on the exterior. A material parameter identification method is proposed and illustrated to address the challenges in characterizing such a thin sheet. The thickness profile and flange length are key criteria for this identification. Digital image correlation (DIC) and a microscope are used to measure the thickness distribution and flange length. Within the manufacturing system, uncertainties arising from material properties and forming processes can lead to scraps or defects. Finite element analysis (FEA) is adopted for process analysis and validated with experiment. Uncertainty propagation via metamodeling, employing radial basis function (RBF) neural networks, is adopted for the scrap rate evaluation. The study concludes with process optimization recommendations to reduce scrap.
An Ecoregional Conservation Assessment for the Southern Rocky Mountains Ecoregion, and Santa Fe Subregion, Wyoming to New Mexico, USA
Authors: DellaSala Dominick A. , Africanis Kaia , Baker Bryant C. , Koopman Marni
Published: July 2024

We conducted a multi-scaled Ecoregional Conservation Assessment for the Southern Rockies (~14.5M ha) and its trailing edge, the Santa Fe Subregion (~2.2M ha), Wyoming to New Mexico, USA. We included a representation analysis of Existing Vegetation Types (EVT), mature-old-growth forests (MOG), and four focal species—Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis), North American wolverine (Gulo gulo luscus), Mexican spotted owl (Strix occidentalis lucida), and northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)—in relation to 30 x 30 and 50 x 50 conservation targets. To integrate conservation targets with wildfire risk reduction to the built environment and climate change planning, we overlaid the location of wildfires and forest treatments in relation to the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) and included downscaled climate projections for a lower (RCP4.5) and higher (RCP8.5) emissions scenario. Protected areas were highly skewed toward upper elevation EVTs (most were >50% protected), underrepresented forest types (<30% protected), especially MOG (<22% protected) and riparian areas (~14% protected), and poorly represented habitat (<30%) for at least 3 of the focal species, especially in the subregion where nearly all the targets underperformed compared to the ecoregion. Most (>73%) forest thinning treatments over the past decade were >1-km from delineated WUI areas, well beyond the distance at which vegetation management can effectively reduce structure ignition risk (< 50-m from structures). Extreme heat, drought, snowpack reductions, altered timing of peak stream flows, increasing wildfires, and potential shifts in the climate niche of woodlands over conifer forests may impact forest dependent species, while declining snowpack may impact wolverine that den in upper elevations. Strategically targeting the built environment for fuel treatments would improve wildfire risk reduction and may allow for expansion of protected areas held up in controversy. Stepped-up protections for roadless areas, adoption of wilderness proposals, and greater protections for MOG and riparian forests are critical for meeting representation targets.
Foam Dyeing: A Review of Its Potential to Revolutionize Sustainable Textile Processing
Authors: Siddique Amna , Khawar Muhammad Tauseef , Long Ang Kiang , Xu Zhiwei , Mazari Adnan , Naeem Salman , Naeem Jawad , Saleemi Sidra
Published: July 2024

The textile processing sector is accountable for the extensive utilisation and pollution of freshwater resources. Due to heightened consumer awareness of environmental legislation regarding freshwater contamination, the textile sector is compelled to review and improve their current water consumption practices. Foan dyeing technique is a highly promising alternative that has the ability to contribute to a more sustainable future. This review paper discussed the current state of foam dyeing technology, highlighting its advantages in terms of re-duced consumption of water and energy, as well as minimal usage of dyes and chemicals compared to conventional methods. The foam configuration allows for more effective application of dyes. As a result, there is a decrease in dye consumption and a reduction in processing time. The process is environmen-tally sustainable since it significantly reduces water pollution. Furthermore, foam dyeing method consumes less energy due to its lower dying temperature need compared to conventional processing technology. Additionally, this paper highlights the continued investigation of foam dyeing on many types of textile substrates (such as fibres, yarns, and fabric) and compositions including cotton, polyester, and their mixtures. In addition, the techno-economic comparison of foam dyeing and conventional dyeing is also given. This review paper addi-tionally endorses the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6, clean water and sanitation) by examining the preservation of usable water and the decrease in wastewater discharge through foam dyeing technology. Lastly, the potential advantages of foam dyeing in terms of significantly reducing water consump-tion and the generation of waste in the textile industry were also addressed.
Investigating the Relationship Between Balanced Composition and Aesthetic Judgment through Computational Aesthetics and Neuroaesthetic Approaches
Authors: Lin Fangfu , Song Wu , Li Yan , Xu Wanni
Published: July 2024

Background: Symmetry is a special kind of balance. This study aims to systematically explore and apply the role of balanced composition in aesthetic judgments by focusing on balanced composition features and employing research methods from computational aesthetics and Neuroaesthetics. Methods: First, experimental materials were classified by quantifying balanced composition using several indices, including symmetry, center of gravity, and negative space. An EEG experiment was conducted with 18 participants, who were asked to respond dichotomously to the same stimuli under different judgment tasks (balance and aesthetics), with both behavioral and EEG data being recorded and analyzed. Subsequently, participants' data were combined with balanced composition indices to construct and analyze various SVM classification models. Results: Participants largely used balanced composition as a criterion for aesthetic evaluation. ERP data indicated that from 300-500ms post-stimulus, brain activation was more significant in the aesthetic task, with unbeautiful and imbalanced stimuli eliciting larger frontal negative waves and occipital positive waves. From 600-1000ms, beautiful stimuli caused smaller negative waves in the PZ channel. The results of the SVM models indicated that the model incorporating aesthetic subject data (ACC=0.9989) outperforms the model using only balanced composition parameters of the aesthetic object (ACC=0.7074). Conclusions: Balanced composition is a crucial indicator in aesthetics, with similar early processing stages in both balance and aesthetic judgments. Multimodal data models validated the advantage of including human factors in aesthetic evaluation systems. This interdisciplinary approach not only enhances our understanding of the cognitive and emotional processes involved in aesthetic judgments but also enables the construction of more reasonable machine learning models to simulate and predict human aesthetic preferences.
Enhancing Significant Wave Height Retrieval With FY-3E GNSS-R Data: A Comparative Analysis of Deep Learning Models
Authors: Zhou Zhenxiong , Duan Boheng , Ren Kaijun , Ni Weicheng , Cao Ruixin
Published: July 2024

Significant Wave Height(SWH) is a crucial parameter in oceanographic research, essential for understanding various marine and atmospheric processes. Traditional methods for obtaining SWH, such as ship-based and buoy measurements, face limitations like limited spatial coverage and high operational costs. With the advancement of Global Navigation Satellite Systems reflectometry(GNSS-R) technology, a new method for retrieving SWH has emerged, demonstrating promising results. This study utilizes Radio occultation sounder(GNOS) data from the FY-3E satellite and incorporates the latest Vision Transformer(ViT) technology to investigate GNSS-R-based SWH retrieval. We designed and evaluated various deep learning models, including ANN-Wave, CNN-Wave, Hybrid-Wave, Trans-Wave, and ViT-Wave. Through comparative training using ERA5 data, the ViT-Wave model was identified as the optimal retrieval model. The ViT-Wave model achieved an Root Mean Square Error(RMSE) accuracy of 0.4052 meters and Mean Absolute Error(MAE) accuracy of 0.2700 meters, significantly outperforming both traditional methods and newer deep learning approaches utilizing Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite Systems(CYGNSS) data. These results underscore the potential of integrating GNSS-R technology with advanced deep learning models to enhance SWH retrieval accuracy and reliability in oceanographic research.
Towards Air Quality Protection in an Urban Area—Case Study
Authors: Nahorski Zbigniew , Holnicki Piotr , Kałuszko Andrzej
Published: July 2024

Warsaw is among European cities with the worst atmospheric air quality, mainly due to very high pollution emitted by the residential sector and road traffic. This results in high concentrations of particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, often exceeding WHO standards. The paper discusses the current and expected effects of actions taken by the Warsaw authorities, to significantly improve air quality in the city. The Clean Air Program currently implemented mainly involves the reduction, and ultimately the total elimination, of coal combustion in all heat sources of the municipal sector, which is identified in numerous publications as the main source of air quality degradation in cities. The program's goal, which timeframe covers the years 2018-2029, is a definite reduction in particulate pollution. The second part of the remedial activities, covering the years 2024-2034, mainly concerns the reduction of nitrogen oxide pollution, the main source of which is urban road traffic. In the latter case, the expected effects of introducing Low-Emission Zone (launched July 2024) in the city center are considered. According to the project, the zone's implementation will consist of five two-year stages, in which the car emission limits will gradually tighten. The paper compares the effectiveness of two being considered versions, differing in size zones.
Plant-Derived Exosomes: Nano-Inducers of Cross Kingdom Regulations
Authors: Rehman Touseef , Li Huiliang , Martuscelli Maria , Aiello Francesca , Esposito Luigi , Ashraf Kamran , Mastrocola Dino , Guo Meijin , Mohsin Ali
Published: July 2024

Exosomes are produced by all cell types, their biogenesis is of endosomal origin, originating as a result of cell membrane invagination. Furthermore, physiochemical characteristics are important prerequisites for their commercial application. The representative size range of exosomes is 50-200 nm. Whereas, comparative to animal cell, exosomes from plant cell sources have a relatively larger size range, moreover, exhibit broader therapeutic potential. In this review study, we have briefly discussed the research potential of plant-derived exosomes. Including their earlier studies on biogenesis, characterization, isolation methods, and possible therapeutic applications. Additionally, we have quoted targeted drug delivery for targeted therapies and have provided insights of methods for customizing exosomes produced from plants with various drugs. Most-importantly, here we have embodied exosomes from plant sources are natural nano-inducers possessing the ability for inter-kingdom communication, resulting in cross-kingdom regulations.
Usefulness of Magnetodynamic Mallet in Tooth Extraction
Authors: Baldi Domenico , Baldi Francesca , Giordano Federica , De Giorgis Luisa , Bagnasco Francesco , Lugas Andrea Tancredi , Menini Maria , Colombo Jacopo
Published: July 2024

Tooth extraction techniques have been refined over the years in order to be less traumatic and better preserve alveolar bone. A recently introduced extraction method involves the use of the Magnetic Mallet®, which
allows the clinician to be more precise, faster and less traumatic. The aim of the present study was to clinically evaluate whether extractions performed by means of the Magnetic Mallet® can lead to less bucco-lingual bone resorption.
Between February 2023 and June 2023, 9 patients with an average age of 62 years underwent 29 extractions using the Magnetic Mallet®. Sectoral CBCTs were performed in order to measure bucco-lingual bone thickness at time 0 (T0, before extraction) and 3 months after extraction (T3M). All the extractions were performed by 2 different expert operators using exclusively the magnetic mallet.
For statistical analysis, a two-sample t-test was performed between the measurements taken at T0 and those taken at T3M in the 29 dental elements and between the difference in bone loss among the 2 different clinicians. 22 teeth were extracted in the upper jaw and 7 in the lower jaw. The average degree of mobility was 1. The average degree of force impressed by the instrument to extract the teeth was 2, while the average frequency of blows administered was 7. The average time taken for the extractions was 3½ minutes. After 4 months, the mean bucco-lingual bone resorption was 1.54 mm (SD: +-). The difference of bucco-lingual bone thickness between T0 and T3 was significant at an alpha significance level of 0.01. No difference were found in bone resorption based on the clinician.
The use of the Magnetic Mallet® during tooth extraction led to less bucco-lingual bone resorption in the 3 months following dental extraction, compared to the traditional use of manual hammers, chisels and levers.
Explosion Detection using Smartphones: Ensemble Learning with the Smartphone High-explosive Audio Recordings Dataset and the ESC-50 Dataset
Authors: Takazawa Samuel Kei , Popenhagen Sarah K. , Ocampo Giraldo Luis A. , Hix Jay D. , Thompson Scott J. , Chichester David L. , Zeiler Cleat P. , Garcés Milton A.
Published: July 2024

Explosion monitoring is performed by infrasound and seismoacoustic sensor networks that are distributed globally, regionally, and locally. However, these networks are unevenly and sparsely distributed, especially in the local scale as maintaining and deploying networks is costly. With increasing interest in smaller yield explosions, the need for more dense networks has increased. To address this issue, we propose using smartphone sensors for explosion detection as they are cost-effective and easy to deploy. Although there are studies using smartphone sensors for explosion detection, the field is still in its infancy and new technologies need to be developed. We applied a machine learning model for explosion detection using smartphone microphones. The data used were from the Smartphone High-explosion Audio Recordings Dataset (SHAReD), a collection of 326 waveforms from 70 high-explosive (HE) events recorded on smartphones, and the ESC-50 dataset, a benchmarking dataset commonly used for environmental sound classification. Two machine learning models were trained and combined into an ensemble model for explosion detection. The resulting ensemble model classified audio signals as either “explosion,” “ambient,” or “other” with true positive rates (recall) greater than 96% for all three categories.
Gigantism in Theropods: A Study of Giganotosaurus carolinii and Its Ecological Impact
Authors: Hu Tyler
Published: July 2024

Gigantism in theropods represents one of the most intriguing phenomena in dinosaur evolution, showcasing extreme adaptations in body size and ecological roles. This literature review focuses on Giganotosaurus carolinii, one of the largest known theropods to have ever existed, to explore its unique aspects of gigantism and the subsequent ecological impacts. By analyzing features such as its skeletal morphology, comparative anatomy, and paleoenvironmental data, we assess the evolutionary pressures and biological constraints that shaped the gigantism observed in Giganotosaurus. We discover that the species exhibited a combination of physiological and ecological adaptations that allowed it to thrive as an apex predator in its Cretaceous environment. We will also further examine the implications of its size on prey dynamics, competition with other large theropods, and the overall ecosystem structure. Through a thorough, multidisciplinary approach, this research enhances our understanding of how gigantism influenced theropod behavior, interspecies interactions, and the broader paleoecological landscape.
Scoping Review of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Japanese Healthcare Providers
Authors: Nash Carol
Published: July 2024

A recent publication regarding a March 2023 Google Scholar search found Japan unique in healthcare providers’ reaction to COVID-19 vaccines. According to one article, negative sentiment by healthcare providers toward vaccines defines the research in this area, with concerns about side effects outweighing worries regarding infection. This current study investigates the anomaly through a scoping review of “COVID-19, Japan, vaccine hesitancy” in six relevant databases: Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register, OVID, ProQuest, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. By following PRISMA guidelines, the intent is a more thorough examination of this unusual evalua-tion of COVID-19 vaccines by Japanese healthcare providers than offered by the March 2023 search. The finding is that of the 997 returns, only four were relevant for assessment inclusion. Of these four, three, published in Vaccines, support vaccine hesitancy in Japanese healthcare providers and their becoming more so regarding a subsequent dose of the vaccine. One article published in BMJ Open did not find this. Yet, the design of none of the studies was specific to investigating vaccine hesitancy in Japanese healthcare providers, making the conclusion questionable. Suggest-ed future research directions include investigating the primacy of those databases searched and the need for timeliness in examining COVID-19 anomalies
Stable GANs via Fermi-Dirac Statistics and Ruppeiner Geometry
Authors: Garayev Guman , Alili Azar
Published: July 2024

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) are powerful models for generative tasks but face significant challenges such as instability, mode collapse, and inefficient convergence. This paper introduces a theoretical framework leveraging Fermi-Dirac statistics, Ruppeiner geometry, phase transition dynamics, and graph theory to address these issues. The proposed theorems provide a robust mathematical foundation for enhancing GAN stability, diversity, and convergence. Experimental validation on the MNIST dataset demonstrates that the application of these theorems results in improved Inception Scores, reduced Fr´echet Inception Distances, and stable training dynamics, as indicated by Ruppeiner curvature analysis. The findings suggest that these theoretical insights offer a comprehensive solution to the persistent challenges in GAN training, paving the way for more reliable and effective generative models
Anti-inflammatory Activity of Lannea velutina and Sorindeia juglandifolia Leaves Extracts
Authors: Malú Quintino , Malmir Maryam , Infante Caldeira Gonçalo , Encarnação Sofia , Lima Katelene , Catarino Luis , Silva Lima Beatriz , Rocha João , Silva Olga
Published: July 2024

The dried leaves of Lannea velutina A.Rich. and Sorindeia juglandifolia (A.Rich.) Planch. ex Oliv. are commonly used in traditional medicine across West Africa to treat inflammatory conditions. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of these plants' standardized hydroethanolic (70%) extracts and investigate the potential mechanisms of action based on their antioxidant activity. The induced paw edema model in rats was used to evaluate anti-inflammatory activity, while the DPPH, molybdic acid and ferric-reducing antioxidant power methods were used to assess antioxidant activity. Quantification of the major secondary metabolites classes was done by colorimetry, and the corresponding chemical fingerprint was established by LC-UV/DAD-ESI/MS for extract standardization. The results showed that the Lannea velutina extract had the highest inhibition of paw volume increase at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg (46.67% and 48.35%), while the Sorindeia juglandifolia extract showed the highest inhibition at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg (39.15% and 40.93%). Both extracts also showed antioxidant activity. Phenolic derivatives were considered as the main classes of secondary metabolites present in the extracts, with L. velutina having 350.1±20.6 mg GAE/g DE and S. juglandifolia having 463.4±29.4 mg GAE/g DE. Ten phenolic marker compounds were identified in L. velutina and six in S. juglandifolia extracts. The major constituents of L. velutina were identified as myricetin-3-O-glucuronide, quercetin-3-O-glucuronide, catechin, and gallic acid, while those of S. juglandifolia were gallic acid, isoquercitrin, and ethylgallate. The study confirms the anti-inflammatory activity of L. velutina and S. juglandifolia leaves, making them potential targets for producing anti-inflammatory herbal medicines standardized concerning their chemical composition and biological activity.