bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of dual survival following fetoscopic laser photocoagulation for twin–twin transfusion syndrome
Authors: Krispin E. , Mustafa H. J. , Espinoza J. , Nassr A. A. , Sanz Cortes M. , Donepudi R. , Harman C. , Mostafaei S. , Turan O. , Belfort M. A. , Shamshirsaz A. A.
Published: October 2022

Objective

To develop a model based on factors available at the time of diagnosis of twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) for predicting the probability of dual twin survival following fetoscopic laser photocoagulation (FLP) using a machine‐learning algorithm.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of data collected at two university‐affiliated tertiary fetal centers between 2012 and 2021. The cohort included monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies complicated by TTTS that underwent FLP. Data were stratified based on survival 30 days after delivery, and cases with dual survival were compared to those without dual survival. A random forest machine‐learning algorithm was used to construct a prediction model, and the relative importance value was calculated for each parameter that presented a statistically significant difference between the two study groups and was included in the model. The holdout method was applied to check overfitting of the random forest algorithm. A prediction model for dual twin survival 30 days after delivery was presented based on the test set.

Results

The study included 537 women with monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy, of whom 346 (64.4%) had dual twin survival at 30 days after delivery and were compared with 191 (35.6%) cases that had one or no survivors. Univariate analysis demonstrated no differences in demographic parameters between the groups. At the time of diagnosis, the dual‐survival group had lower rates of estimated fetal weight (EFW) < 10th centile for gestational age in the donor twin (56.4% vs 69.4%; P = 0.004), intertwin EFW discordance > 25% (40.8% vs 56.5%; P = 0.001) and anterior placenta (40.5% vs 50.0%; P = 0.034). Comparison of Doppler findings between the two groups demonstrated significant differences in the donor twin, with a lower rate of pulsatility index (PI) > 95th centile in the umbilical artery and ductus venosus and a lower rate of PI < 5th centile in the fetal middle cerebral artery in the dual‐survival group. Relative importance values for each of these six parameters were calculated, allowing the construction of a prediction model with an area under the receiver‐operating‐characteristics curve of 0.916 (95% CI, 0.887–0.946).

Conclusions

We developed a predictive model for dual survival in monochorionic twin pregnancies following FLP for TTTS, which incorporates six variables obtained at the time of diagnosis of TTTS, including donor EFW < 10th centile, intertwin EFW discordance > 25%, anterior placenta and abnormal PI in the umbilical artery, ductus venosus and middle cerebral artery of the donor twin. This clinically applicable tool may improve treatment planning and patient counseling. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Actinobacillus suis isolated from diseased pigs are phylogenetically related but harbour different number of toxin gene copies in their genomes
Authors: Kulathunga Dharmasiri Gamage Ruwini Sulochana , Fakher Alaa Abou , Costa Matheus de Oliveira
Published: October 2022

Objective

The Gram‐negative bacterium Actinobacillus suis is an agent of global importance to the swine industry and the cause of lethal respiratory or septicaemic disease in pigs of different ages. Between 2018 and 2019, seven commercial farms in western Canada experienced episodes of increased mortality due to A. suis infection in grower pigs. The goal of this work was to profile, with molecular methods, A. suis isolated from diseased pigs and to compare them to other isolates.

Design

This inferential observational study used nine western Canadian strains obtained from diseased lungs (n = 6), heart (n = 2) and brain (n = 1) and whole genome sequencing was performed. Comparative genomic analyses were performed to characterise the genetic variability, antimicrobial resistance and the virulence genes present.

Results

Compared to the reference strain (ATCC 33415), an increased number of RTX (repeats in the structural toxin) gene copies were identified in strains isolated from organs without a mucosal surface, thus theoretically harder to invade. Western Canadian strains did not harbour genes associated with resistance to antimicrobial agents used in swine production. Novel regions were also identified in the genomes of five of nine strains demonstrating recombination and emergence of novel strains.

Conclusions

The results obtained in this study were associated with the emergence of new lineages. An increased number of RTX toxin gene copies is suggested to be associated with increased virulence. This study will contribute to improve our understanding regarding A. suis and may help guide vaccine development and agent control measures.
What the Car Industry Can Do, Mercedes-Benz’ View
Authors: Schöneburg Rodolfo , Baumann Karl-Heinz
Published: October 2022

The car industry faces some extreme challenges. Alongside the key task that we face of making individual transport climate-neutral, and alongside the new technological opportunities for communication and networking across our whole environment, it is clear that the user behavior of vehicle drivers and of all other road users is also going to change. Bearing all these aspects in mind, our overriding goal remains to make the traffic on our roads safer. Many of the activities in this context are summarized in the Mercedes-Benz “Vision of accident-free driving.” The current plateauing of road fatality statistics across the countries of the West is a clear signal that we need to intensify our efforts even further. And indeed, there are still plenty of levers that can be applied in order to optimize and improve these figures.

Following a review of the current situation from the perspective of Mercedes-Benz, the opportunities for further optimization of vehicle safety are now presented in the guise of the latest Experimental Safety Vehicle, ESF 2019, which above all addresses the new possibilities offered by increasing connectivity and automation. Many of the innovative concepts under consideration have a chance of reaching the market in future vehicles, either as they are or in a modified form; in other cases the discussion around them will lead to new ideas and proposed solutions.

The Integral Safety Strategy by Mercedes-Benz is a holistic approach that defines safety in four phases: (1) safe driving, (2) assisting in a critical driving situation with accident prevention systems and anticipatory protection elements such as PRE-SAFE® systems, (3) during a crash, for example, occupant and partner protection, and, finally, (4) after a crash, deploy systems for the rescue phase. All four phases must be high priorities during the development of the vehicle.

Even with an optimistic view of the vehicle-based opportunities, this article will demonstrate that vehicle measures alone will not be sufficient to solve all traffic safety issues, as road transportation is just too complex. All the factors that impact road safety, and which will need to play their part in delivering “Vision Zero,” must be addressed; in other words, infrastructural measures and people in traffic, too. As with the Mercedes-Benz strategy of Integral Safety, we shall only be able to make major advances toward “Vision Zero” if all influencing factors are properly investigated as part of an integrated examination of road safety.
Urban Road Design and Keeping Down Speed
Authors: Corben Bruce
Published: October 2022

This chapter examines the opportunities available to a range of professions that directly or indirectly influence urban settings, to achieve Vision Zero safety outcomes. Starting with how we want our urban areas to be, the chapter examines options to eliminate the systemic risk of deaths and serious injuries on urban roads from three separate but related viewpoints; managing the threats to life and health posed by the energy embedded within the road transport system, the potential for crashes to occur and the exposure of those who use the system to severe injury risk from crashes. In urban settings, it is sometimes possible to eliminate or minimize vehicular traffic on selected roads and streets but, in general, it is either impractical or undesirable to do so. By physically separating vehicles from other vehicles, and from highly vulnerable road users, we risk creating the types of cities and towns that do not support our high level aspirations of highly liveable and healthy societies, with sustainable and equitable urban transport systems. Where physical separation is not viable, it becomes necessary to manage transport system energy to ensure risk remains below the levels we set for Vision Zero outcomes – no one being killed or seriously injured. The main focus of this chapter therefore is on the means by which we can manage kinetic energy, primarily through compatible combinations of infrastructure design and speed limit setting, to protect all who use urban roads. Vehicle technology and structural design are important considerations for system performance as a whole.
Analysis of Soundscapes as an Ecological Tool
Authors: Schoeman Renée P. , Erbe Christine , Pavan Gianni , Righini Roberta , Thomas Jeanette A.
Published: October 2022

Soundscapes have been likened to acoustic landscapes, encompassing all the acoustic features of an area. The sounds that make up a soundscape can be grouped according to their source into biophony (sounds from animals), geophony (sounds from atmospheric and geophysical events), and anthropophony (sounds from human activities). Natural soundscapes have changed over time because of human activities that generate sound, alter land-use patterns, remove animals from natural settings, and result in climate change. These human activities have direct and indirect effects on animal distribution patterns and (acoustic) behavior. Consequently, current soundscapes may be very different from those a few hundred years ago. This is of concern as natural soundscapes have ecological value. Losing natural soundscapes may, therefore, result in a loss of biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. The study of soundscapes can identify ecosystems undergoing change and potentially document causes (such as noise from human activities). Methods for studying soundscapes range from listening and creating visual (spectrographic) displays to the computation of acoustic indices and advanced statistical modeling. Passive acoustic recording has become an ecological tool for research, monitoring, and ultimately conservation management. This chapter introduces terrestrial and aquatic soundscapes, soundscape analysis tools, and soundscape management.
Fundamental Data Analysis Tools and Concepts for Bioacoustical Research
Authors: Salgado Kent Chandra , Marques Tiago A. , Harris Danielle
Published: October 2022

Bioacoustics is a growing field of research in which sound is measured to gain knowledge about species’ natural history and their environments. For example, bioacousticians have been able to create phylogenies, identify populations, and estimate abundance using sound. Moreover, today, many animals are exposed to human-generated noise, which can impact animals’ behavior, ability to communicate, physiology, hearing, and, in some instances, survival. Bioacoustics, thus, is commonly used to assess and predict the impacts of anthropogenic noise on animals and their populations. The use of bioacoustics to address such research questions, however, is only effective provided the quantitative and statistical analysis methods used are adequate and reliable. While it may not be reasonable to expect a single researcher working in bioacoustics to master all three fields required in bioacoustical research (i.e., biology, acoustics, and statistics), bioacousticians should understand basic statistical concepts, have good knowledge of existing techniques for data analysis, and identify possible pitfalls in survey design. In addition, bioacousticians should be able to conduct a range of current standard analyses, produce informative visualizations, and know when to engage a statistician to perform more sophisticated analyses. This chapter introduces common terms, concepts, and statistical methods available to analyze bioacoustical data. Not surprisingly, most are concepts and methods that could be used for any applied research topic, not necessarily just bioacoustics. The authors’ aim is for this chapter to expose users with no or limited experience in quantitative methods in bioacoustics to key analytical considerations for making valid inferences from acoustic data.
The Making of Reception as a System. The Governance of Migrant Mobility and Transformations of Statecraft in Greece Since the Early 2000s
Authors: Mantanika Regina , Arapoglou Vassilis
Published: October 2022

This chapter focuses on the reception system for migrants, a system that consists of procedures that take place between practices of what is known as first reception and longer-term plans for integration. When we use the term migrant in this chapter, we are referring to those who migrate towards a territory, have arrived at a territory, or live in the territory in question for a short or long period of time. Unless noted otherwise, the term does not distinguish between migrants, asylum seekers and refugees. Our research is built on an analysis of two key periods that are critical in the emergence, evolution and consolidation of this intermediary space. Firstly, at the start of the 2000s, reception emerged as a concept and practice related to the governance of so-called transit migration. This period was characterised by a plethora of complex forced and voluntary mobilities inside Greece and the EU. Furthermore, during this period, the state of ‘being in limbo’ became established as a situation in between borders, as well as in between transiting (through) and settling (in) a territory. During the second key period from 2015 to 2019, we observe contradictory policy attempts to consolidate migrant reception as a formal system, including new infrastructures like camps and housing programmes, which were maintained by diverse agents and jurisdictions. The ‘hotspot’ approach, the closing down of the Balkan route and the EU-Turkey Statement constituted important impediments to the development of inclusive practices by international humanitarian agencies and grassroots solidarity initiatives.
Pathways to Integration and Dis-integration: An Assessment of the Greek Immigration Policy for the Inclusion of Immigrants, Applicants and Beneficiaries of International Protection
Authors: Tramountanis Angelo
Published: October 2022

With the unveiling of the 2019 National Strategy for Integration, Greece entered its third decade as a host country for immigrants, applicants and beneficiaries of international protection. Even though inflows of immigrants are recorded since the early 1990s, it took more than a decade for the issue of immigrant integration to be raised in the political agenda. This contribution provides for an assessment of the past 30 years, in terms of analysing the evolving legal and policy framework. In addition, it evaluates the proposed and implemented measures that aimed into facilitating immigrant integration. Historically, the 1991–2000 period was characterised by a repressive approach towards immigration and strict control measures, without any provisions for integration. During the years that followed (2001–2008), the first comprehensive immigration laws were presented, as did two Actions Plans on the social integration of immigrants. The 2008–2015 period was marked by the severe economic crisis that affected Greece, and resulted in dis-integrating part of the immigrant population. Finally, the current period is defined by the long-lasting effects of the 2015–2016 refugee crisis. As such, the latest in a long series of National Strategies for Integration was unveiled, while the HELIOS programme was launched, aiming to facilitate the integration of beneficiaries of international protection. Summarising, this chapter argues that even though lip service is paid to the concept of immigrant integration, a coherent and proactive policy for immigrants’ integration in the Greek society was almost never a Greek state’s priority.
Introduction: Origins, Approach, and an Arab Sensibility
Authors: Tessler Mark
Published: October 2022

This guide offers readers a concise overview of the elements of social science research, from topic to design to data and analysis. By incorporating examples of research in Arab societies and including exercises using data from the Arab Barometer survey project, the guide situates social scientific concepts and methods in the social and political environment of the Arab world. It will, therefore, be of particular relevance to social scientists who study the Arab region, including, and perhaps especially, Arab scholars who conduct social science research.
The Looijenga–Lunts–Verbitsky Algebra and Verbitsky’s Theorem
Authors: Bottini Alessio
Published: October 2022

In these notes we review some basic facts about the LLV Lie algebra. It is a rational Lie algebra, introduced by Looijenga–Lunts and Verbitsky, acting on the rational cohomology of a compact Kähler manifold. We study its structure and describe one irreducible component of the rational cohomology in the case of a compact hyperkähler manifold.
A depression network caused by brain tumours
Authors: Li Yanran , Jin Yong , Wu Di , Zhang Lifang
Published: October 2022

To systematically analyse and discuss whether suppressive heterogeneous brain tumours (BTs) belong to a common brain network and provide a theoretical basis for identifying BT patients with a high risk of depression and select therapeutic targets for clinical treatment. The PubMed database was systematically searched to obtain relevant case reports, and lesion locations were manually traced to standardised brain templates according to ITK-SNAP descriptive literature. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data sets were collected from 1,000 healthy adults aged 18–35 years. Each lesion location or functional connectivity area of the lesion network. Connectivity analysis was performed in an MN152 space, and Fisher z-transformation was applied to normalise the distribution of each value in the functional connectivity correlation map, and T maps of each tumour location network were calculated with the T score of individual voxels. This T score indicates the statistical significance of voxelwise connectivity at each tumour location. The lesion networks were thresholded at T = 7, creating binarised maps of brain regions connecting tumour locations, overlaying network maps to identify tumour-sensitive hubs and also assessing specific hubs with other conditional controls. A total of 18 patients describing depression following focal BTs were included. Of these cases, it was reported that depression-related tumours were unevenly distributed in the brain: 89% (16/18) were positively correlated with the left striatum, and the peak of the left striatum lesion network continuously overlapped. The depression-related tumour location was consistent with the tumour suppressor network (89%). These results suggest that sensitive hubs are aligned with specific networks, and specific hubs are aligned with sensitive networks. Brain tumour-related depression differs from acute lesion-related depression and may be related to the mapping of tumours to depression-related brain networks. It can provide an observational basis for the neuroanatomical basis of BT-related depression and a theoretical basis for identifying patients with BTs at high risk of depression and their subsequent clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Stroke disconnectome decodes reading networks
Authors: Forkel Stephanie J. , Labache Loïc , Nachev Parashkev , Thiebaut de Schotten Michel , Hesling Isabelle
Published: October 2022

Cognitive functional neuroimaging has been around for over 30 years and has shed light on the brain areas relevant for reading. However, new methodological developments enable mapping the interaction between functional imaging and the underlying white matter networks. In this study, we used such a novel method, called the disconnectome, to decode the reading circuitry in the brain. We used the resulting disconnection patterns to predict a typical lesion that would lead to reading deficits after brain damage. Our results suggest that white matter connections critical for reading include fronto-parietal U-shaped fibres and the vertical occipital fasciculus (VOF). The lesion most predictive of a reading deficit would impinge on the left temporal, occipital, and inferior parietal gyri. This novel framework can systematically be applied to bridge the gap between the neuropathology of language and cognitive neuroscience.
Fuzzy multiset finite automata with output
Authors: Martinek Pavel
Published: October 2022

Fuzzy multiset finite automata with output represent fuzzy version of finite automata (with output) working over multisets. This paper introduces Mealy-like, Moore-like, and compact fuzzy multiset finite automata. Their mutual transformations are described to prove their equivalent behaviours. Furthermore, various variants of reduced fuzzy multiset finite automata are studied where the reductions are directed to decrease the number of fuzzy components (like fuzzy initial distribution, fuzzy transition relation, or fuzzy output relation) of the fuzzy automata. The research confirmed that all fuzzy multiset finite automata with output can be reduced without change of their behaviours.
Racial and ethnic disparities in cancer caregiver burden and potential sociocultural mediators
Authors: Fenton Anny T. H. R. , Ornstein Katherine A. , Dilworth-Anderson Peggye , Keating Nancy L. , Kent Erin E. , Litzelman Kristin , Enzinger Andrea C. , Rowland Julia H. , Wright Alexi A.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Black and Hispanic cancer patients experience many worse care quality and health outcomes than non-Hispanic White patients, yet less is known about disparities in caregiving responsibilities and burden among cancer caregivers.

Methods

We analyzed cross-sectional data from Cancer Care Outcomes Research and Surveillance consortium, a large multi-regional, population-based study of colorectal and lung cancer patients and their caregivers. Bivariate and multivariable regression models assessed differences by racial and ethnic groups in caregiving responsibilities and social/emotional, financial, and health burdens. Structural equation models estimated whether sociocultural resources (social support, caregiving preparedness, caregiver–patient communication) mediated racial and ethnic differences in caregiver burden.

Results

Compared with non-Hispanic White caregivers (N = 1,169), Black (N = 220) and Hispanic (N = 84) caregivers spent more time caregiving (18 vs. 26 vs. 26 h/week; P < 0.001), completed more tasks (6.8 vs. 7.6 vs. 8.7; P < 0.05), and reported greater financial burden (P = 0.02). Yet, compared to non-Hispanic Whites, Hispanic caregivers reported similar social/emotional and health burdens, while Black caregivers reported lower levels (P < 0.01). In adjusted models, disparities in financial burden disappeared, and Hispanic caregivers had less health burden than non-Hispanic White caregivers (P = 0.01). Social support and/or caregiving preparedness partially mediated the Black–White gap for all three types of burdens.

Conclusions

Black and Hispanic cancer caregivers perform more caregiving and report greater financial burden than non-Hispanic White caregivers, but experience lower or equivalent social/emotional and health burdens. Racial differences in caregivers’ social support and caregiving preparedness levels partially explain Black–White burden differences. Research and policy should address Black and Hispanic caregivers’ increased financial burden.
Complex networks for community detection of basketball players
Authors: Chessa Alessandro , D’Urso Pierpaolo , De Giovanni Livia , Vitale Vincenzina , Gebbia Alfonso
Published: October 2022

In this paper a weighted complex network is used to detect communities of basketball players on the basis of their performances. A sparsification procedure to remove weak edges is also applied. In our proposal, at each removal of an edge the best community structure of the “giant component” is calculated, maximizing the modularity as a measure of compactness within communities and separation among communities. The “sparsification transition” is confirmed by the normalized mutual information. In this way, not only the best distribution of nodes into communities is found, but also the ideal number of communities as well. An application to community detection of basketball players for the NBA regular season 2020–2021 is presented. The proposed methodology allows a data driven decision making process in basketball.
A review of environmental and economic aspects of medical devices, illustrated with a comparative study of double-lumen tubes used for one-lung ventilation
Authors: Sørensen Birgitte Lilholt , Larsen Sara , Andersen Claus
Published: October 2022

When health care management considers implementing a new technology such as a medical device, it is crucial to take workflow, clinical outcome, economy, and environmental impacts into consideration in the decision-making process. This study outlines the knowledge status of this complex challenge via a systematic literature review (SLR). The SLR found 133 of 1570 screened publications that covered relevant frameworks for choosing hospital equipment (i.e., related economics, life cycle assessment, waste generation and health issues). Yet, just five publications addressed choosing single-use vs. reuse of tubes or similar types of equipment by economic and environmental considerations through a systematic quantitative approach. The SLR reveals few publicly available peer-reviewed studies for the optimal sustainable choice of equipment. This study assesses environmental impacts of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions as CO2-equivalents and resource consumption of a single-use double-lumen tube (DLT) combined with a reusable bronchoscope were compared to a single-use DLT with an integrated single-use camera. Camera DLTs exclude or minimize the need for a bronchoscope to verify correct tube placement during one-lung ventilation. The life cycle assessment shows that the materials and energy used and needed for personnel protective equipment and cleaning of the reusable bronchoscope contribute significantly to CO2-equivalent emissions. To ensure the sustainable choice of equipment this aspect must not be overlooked. Secondly, future reuse of plastic waste materials from the use can contribute significantly to better environmental performance.
Efficacy and safety profile of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors in the management of heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Gao Juan , Zhao Cong , Zhang Wen-Zhong , Liu Song , Xin Hui , Lian Zhe-Xun
Published: October 2022

Several guidelines have recommended the use of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs) as replacement for angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in the management of heart failure. Till date, there are no reviews done that comprehensively cover different aspects of efficacy and safety parameters. Hence, we have performed a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis on role of ARNIs for the management of heart failure patients. Searches were done in Embase, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, PubMed Central, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and Clinicaltrials.gov until June 2022. Risk of bias assessment was done with Cochrane’s risk of bias tool. Meta-analysis was carried out using random-effects model. Pooled standardized mean difference (SMD)/mean difference (MD) and/or risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was reported. In total, we analysed 34 studies, with almost all of them had a high risk of bias. Pooled RR was 0.88 (95% CI: 0.82–0.95) for all-cause mortality, 0.84 (95% CI: 0.77–0.92) for cardiovascular mortality and 0.78 (95% CI: 0.70–0.87) for hospitalization. Pooled MD was 3.74 (95% CI: 1.93–5.55) for left ventricular ejection fraction, −2.16 (95% CI: −3.58 to −0.74) for left atrial volume index, −3.80 (95% CI: −6.60 to −1.00) for left ventricular end-diastolic dimension and −1.16 (95% CI: −1.98 to −0.35) for E/E′ ratio. Regarding adverse events, pooled RR was 1.55 (95% CI: 1.31–1.85) for symptomatic hypotension, 0.93 (95% CI: 0.78–1.11) for worsening renal function, 1.09 (95% CI: 0.94–1.26) for hyperkalaemia and 1.29 (95% CI: 0.67–2.50) for angioedema. ARNIs had beneficial efficacy and safety profile on the management of heart failure especially patients with reduced ejection fraction.
Hybrid Nanoarchitectonics with Cr, Fe-MOF/ Graphene Nanocomposite for Removal of Organic Sulfur Compounds from Diesel Fuel
Authors: Matloob Aya M. , Abd El-Hafiz Dalia R. , Saad L. , Mikhail S.
Published: October 2022

Metal–organic frameworks (Cr-MOF and Fe-MOF) and their graphene hybride nano-composites were prepared via green solvo-themal method. The prepared samples were characterized by XRD, FTIR spectroscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption isotherm and XPS. The composites were used for the adsorption of thiophenic sulfur compound (thiophene, dibenzothiophene, 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene) in a model fuel oil. It was found that, graphene in the MOF composite has positive effect on sulfur removal. The removal efficiency increase from 62% to % 95.6 using Fe-MOF and Fe-MOF/Gr (9:1), respectively. This enhancement effect is attributed to a greater number of coordinatively unsaturated sites (CUS) in the composites. The results indicated that the adsorption reach to 96.6% for DBT adsorption from model diesel oil and 62% for diesel fuel on using Cr-MOF/Gr composite.
A protein with broad functions: damage-specific DNA-binding protein 2
Authors: Bao Ning , Han Jiguang , Zhou Huimin
Published: October 2022

Damage-specific DNA-binding protein 2 (DDB2) was initially identified as a component of the damage-specific DNA-binding heterodimeric complex, which cooperates with other proteins to repair UV-induced DNA damage. DDB2 is involved in the occurrence and development of cancer by affecting nucleotide excision repair (NER), cell apoptosis, and premature senescence. DDB2 also affects the sensitivity of cancer cells to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. In addition, a recent study found that DDB2 is a pathogenic gene for hepatitis and encephalitis. In recent years, there have been few relevant literature reports on DDB2, so there is still room for further research about it. In this paper, the molecular mechanisms of different biological processes involving DDB2 are reviewed in detail to provide theoretical support for research on drugs that can target DDB2.
Image forgery detection: a survey of recent deep-learning approaches
Authors: Zanardelli Marcello , Guerrini Fabrizio , Leonardi Riccardo , Adami Nicola
Published: October 2022

In the last years, due to the availability and easy of use of image editing tools, a large amount of fake and altered images have been produced and spread through the media and the Web. A lot of different approaches have been proposed in order to assess the authenticity of an image and in some cases to localize the altered (forged) areas. In this paper, we conduct a survey of some of the most recent image forgery detection methods that are specifically designed upon Deep Learning (DL) techniques, focusing on commonly found copy-move and splicing attacks. DeepFake generated content is also addressed insofar as its application is aimed at images, achieving the same effect as splicing. This survey is especially timely because deep learning powered techniques appear to be the most relevant right now, since they give the best overall performances on the available benchmark datasets. We discuss the key-aspects of these methods, while also describing the datasets on which they are trained and validated. We also discuss and compare (where possible) their performance. Building upon this analysis, we conclude by addressing possible future research trends and directions, in both deep learning architectural and evaluation approaches, and dataset building for easy methods comparison.
Generation of red light with intense photoluminescence assisted by Forster resonance energy transfer from Znq2 and DCM thin films
Authors: Laouid Amina , Belghiti Amine Alaoui , Wisniewski Krzysztof , Hajjaji Abdelowahed , Sahraoui Bouchta , Zawadzka Anna
Published: October 2022

In this work, a novel experimental investigation of photoluminescence properties of Znq2 thin films co-doped with different concentrations of DCM were performed. The thin films were successfully deposited on glass substrates with different compositions, under high vacuum, by using the vacuum evaporation technique. For all compositions, the photoluminescence was measured at room temperature and also at low temperature in a wide range from 77 to 300 K with a step of 25 K in a high vacuum. The lifetime of the sample studied in real time was also measured using the decay time technique. The results obtained confirm that the doping influences the intensity of the DCM photoluminescence and also shows a complete energy transfer occurred from Znq2 to DCM which may have shifted the photoluminescence peak from Znq2 to the orange wavelength region which is related to DCM. The lifetime of the sample studied in real time was about 4.47 ns for Znq2 and while all the other samples showed two decay time components. As a result, the doping influences the optical properties of Znq2 and makes it a potential candidate for optoelectronic applications.

Graphical abstract
Nano-bioremediation of textile industry wastewater using immobilized CuO-NPs myco-synthesized by a novel Cu-resistant Fusarium oxysporum OSF18
Authors: Darwesh Osama M. , Li Hao , Matter Ibrahim A.
Published: October 2022

Currently, bionanotechnologies are attracting great interest due to their promising results and potential benefits on many aspects of life. In this study, the objectives was to biosynthesis CuO-NPs using cell-free extract(s) of copper-resistant fungi and use them in bioremediation of textile industry wastewater. Out of 18 copper-resistant fungal isolates, the novel fungus strain Fusarium oxysporum OSF18 was selected for this purpose. This strain showed a high efficiency in extracellular reducing copper ions to their nano-form. The myco-synthesized CuO-NPs were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, HRTEM, FTIR, and XRD and were found to be spherical nanocrystals with the size range of 21–47 nm. The bio-synthesized CuO-NPs showed promising antimicrobial activity as well as high efficiency in removing heavy metals and textile dye from industrial wastewater. The myco-synthesized CuO-NPs immobilized in alginate beads exhibited superior microbial disinfection (99.995%), heavy metals removal (93, 55, and 30 % for Pb, Cr, and Ni, respectively), and dye decolorization (90%). Such results represent a promising step to produce an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and easy-to handle tool for the bioremediation of textile industry wastewater.
Coaxial Laser Cladding of Cobalt-Base Alloy Stellite™ 6 on Grey Cast Iron Analysis of the Microstructural and Mechanical Properties Depending on the Laser Power
Authors: Kiehl Maximilian , Scheid Adriano , Graf Karin , Ernst Benedikt , Tetzlaff Ulrich
Published: October 2022

A high-power diode laser was used to generate single- and multi-bead coatings of Stellite™ 6 by coaxial laser cladding over flat grey cast iron (EN-GJLP-200) as a preliminary study to develop a wear and corrosion resistant coating for brake disks on a cost-effective substrate. In this article, we have focused on a detailed quantitative analysis of the effect of different laser powers (1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 kW) on the bead geometry, dilution, microstructure, and hardness. Coatings dilution or composition depends directly on the laser power as well as bead geometry. The typical microstructure of the coatings comprises a solid solution of α (hcp)- and β (fcc)-Co with a dendritic structure as a metal matrix and an interdendritic lamellar eutectic, which contains predominantly β-Co, chromium carbides Cr7C3and Cr23C6as well as blocky tungsten carbide W2C. Coating hardness depends on the chemical composition and microstructure that is modified by the deposition parameters. Low laser power results in high carbide fraction and most refined microstructures, accounting for harder coatings.
Resistance of Quench and Partitioned Steels Against Hydrogen Embrittlement
Authors: Elsayed Hamdi , Drexler Andreas , Warchomicka Fernando , Traxler Ines , Domitner Josef , Galler Matthew , Vallant Rudolf , Sommitsch Christof
Published: October 2022

Multiphase ultra-high strength steels (UHSS) containing retained austenite (RA) appear to be among the most interesting steels for the automotive industry. Developments in the last decades have allowed obtaining a very good combination of mechanical strength and ductility. Quenching and partitioning (Q&P) steels have been proposed as third-generation UHSS, reaching ultimate tensile strength up to 1300 MPa along with excellent fracture elongations of more than 15%. However, the use of Q&P steels is mainly limited by their susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement (HE). The present work investigates the influence of the Q&P heat treatment parameters on the mechanical properties and on the HE resistivity of 20Mn-Si wire rod steel. The HE resistivity was measured using incremental step load testing with in situ electrochemical hydrogen charging according to ASTM F1624-12 standard. A comprehensive microstructure characterization was performed to examine volume fraction, nucleation sites and morphologies of RA. Although the mechanical properties were similar after Q&P heat treatment, an increase in the partitioning time revealed a significant increase in the HE threshold stress of more than 200 MPa.
Rings and Slings: Not Such Simple Things
Authors: Ruiz-Solano Elyan , Mitchell Michael
Published: October 2022

Purpose of Review

Vascular rings are congenital malformations resulting from abnormal development of the great vessels, with the consequent encircling and compression of the trachea, esophagus, or both. We conducted a review of the current literature to identify the different management strategies that can be implemented based on the prognosis of each of these anomalies.

Recent Findings

Although most vascular rings occur in isolation, they can also be associated with other congenital cardiac and/or respiratory diseases; therefore, thorough investigation is necessary before definitive surgical repair. Clinical presentation varies from asymptomatic to severe, with both respiratory and digestive symptoms. Although early surgical results are acceptable, the long-term outcome is variable; therefore, there is still controversy regarding the appropriate timing of treatment. This is especially true with regard to the Kommerell diverticulum (KD) and in patients without symptoms at the time of initial surgical evaluation.

As more sophisticated diagnostic tools have become available and more studies on adults affected by this condition have been published, understanding of this condition and its additional clinical implications has grown and appears to be tilting management toward earlier intervention.
Meta-analysis of Diabetes Mellitus-Associated Differences in Bone Structure Assessed by High-Resolution Peripheral Quantitative Computed Tomography
Authors: Walle Matthias , Whittier Danielle E. , Frost Morten , Müller Ralph , Collins Caitlyn J.
Published: October 2022

Purpose of Review

Diabetes mellitus is defined by elevated blood glucose levels caused by changes in glucose metabolism and, according to its pathogenesis, is classified into type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 (T2DM) diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus is associated with multiple degenerative processes, including structural alterations of the bone and increased fracture risk. High-resolution peripheral computed tomography (HR-pQCT) is a clinically applicable, volumetric imaging technique that unveils bone microarchitecture in vivo. Numerous studies have used HR-pQCT to assess volumetric bone mineral density and microarchitecture in patients with diabetes, including characteristics of trabecular (e.g. number, thickness and separation) and cortical bone (e.g. thickness and porosity). However, study results are heterogeneous given different imaging regions and diverse patient cohorts.

Recent Findings

This meta-analysis assessed T1DM- and T2DM-associated characteristics of bone microarchitecture measured in human populations in vivo reported in PubMed- and Embase-listed publications from inception (2005) to November 2021. The final dataset contained twelve studies with 516 participants with T2DM and 3067 controls and four studies with 227 participants with T1DM and 405 controls. While T1DM was associated with adverse trabecular characteristics, T2DM was primarily associated with adverse cortical characteristics. These adverse effects were more severe at the radius than the load-bearing tibia, indicating increased mechanical loading may compensate for deleterious bone microarchitecture changes and supporting mechanoregulation of bone fragility in diabetes mellitus.

Our meta-analysis revealed distinct predilection sites of bone structure aberrations in T1DM and T2DM, which provide a foundation for the development of animal models of skeletal fragility in diabetes and may explain the uncertainty of predicting bone fragility in diabetic patients using current clinical algorithms.
Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation Regulates MCT1-PPA-PTEN-LONP1 Signaling to Confer Neuroprotection After Rat Cerebral Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Kong Xiangyi , Hu Wenjie , Cui Yu , Gao Jingchen , Yao Xujin , Ren Jinyang , Lin Tao , Sun Jiangdong , Gao Yunyi , Li Xiaohua , Wang Hui , Li Huanting , Che Fengyuan , Wan Qi
Published: October 2022

Propionic acid (PPA) is a critical metabolite involved in microbial fermentation, which functions to reduce fat production, inhibit inflammation, and reduce serum cholesterol levels. The role of PPA in the context of cerebral ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury has yet to be clarified. Increasing evidence indicate that transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) is a safe approach that confers neuroprotection in cerebral ischemia injury. Here, we show that the levels of PPA were reduced in the ischemic brain following a rat cerebral I/R injury and in the cultured rat cortical neurons after oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD), an in vitro model of ischemic injury. We found that the decreased levels of transporter protein monocarboxylate transporter-1 (MCT1) were responsible for the OGD-induced reduction of PPA. Supplementing PPA reduced ischemia-induced neuronal death after I/R. Moreover, our results revealed that the neuroprotective effect of PPA is mediated through downregulation of phosphatase PTEN and subsequent upregulation of Lon protease 1 (LONP1). We demonstrated that direct-current stimulation (DCS) increased MCT1 expression and PPA level in OGD-insulted neurons, while tDCS decreased the brain infarct volume in the MCAO rats via increasing the levels of MCT1 expression and PPA. This study supports a potential application of tDCS in ischemic stroke.
Determination and evaluation of the interlaminar shear modulus of polyvinyl butyral using fibre optic sensors
Authors: Weimar Thorsten , Hammer Christian
Published: October 2022

The method of fibre optic strain measurement based on Rayleigh signal analysis enables the detection of the deformation behaviour of laminated glass and the modelling of its load-bearing characteristics. The measurement system is already calibrated for glass surfaces by studies of Chair of Building Structure at Universität Siegen. In addition to discretely measuring systems, such as strain gauges, the distributed measurement system is particularly suitable for the determination of the interlaminar shear modulus. The sensors used in bending tests on laminated glass supplement the deformation measurements taken with strain gauges and inductive displacement sensors. The study describes the results of the shear modulus of viscoelastic interlayers made of polyvinyl butyral and provides the basis to define and evaluate a model for the finite element analysis.
How Might Indices of Happiness Inform Early Intervention Research and Decision Making?
Authors: Carnett Amarie , Neely Leslie , Chen Meng-Ting , Cantrell Katherine , Santos Erin , Ala’i-Rosales Shahla
Published: October 2022

Objectives

The child-caregiver relationship is the foundation for which intervention occurs. Therefore, the acceptability of the intervention should be considered for both parties. Indices of happiness (IOH) have shown to be effective in assessing social validity and providing insight to improving interventions to promote better quality of life. However, to date, there is limited attention to the integration of IOH in very early caregiver-led intervention. The purpose of this study is to explore how researchers and clinicians might collect direct data on IOH to assess the acceptability of an intervention.

Methods

Participants in this study included 4 children, ages 19–26 months old, identified as “at-risk” for autism, and their caregivers. Caregiver-led intervention focused on pairing, play, and following the child’s lead. IOH data was collected on both child and caregiver using 10 s partial-interval recording. Data analysis from the intervention is presented using three different approaches: pre/post-analysis on an individual level, pre/post-analysis on a dyad level, and during intervention as a primary dependent variable.

Results

Variations were seen in levels of happiness, both on an individual level and dyad level. IOH for caregivers increased in relation as their fidelity increased but child IOH decreased as they acquired the targeted skill.

Conclusions

Direct observation of happiness data is likely to provide valuable insight into participants perception of an intervention. And retrospective analysis may be a valuable tool for reflection and guidance and planning of future interventions.
Differential near-infrared imaging of heterocysts using single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Antonucci Alessandra , Reggente Melania , Gillen Alice J. , Roullier Charlotte , Lambert Benjamin P. , Boghossian Ardemis A.
Published: October 2022

The internalization of near-infrared (NIR) optical nanoprobes in photosynthetic microbes can be exploited for applications ranging from energy conversion to biomolecule delivery. However, the intrinsic, species-dependent properties of microbial cell walls, including their surface charge density, composition, thickness, and elasticity, can severely impact nanoprobe uptake and affect the cellular response. An examination of the interaction of the optical nanoprobe in various species and its impact on cell viability is, therefore, imperative for the development of new imaging technologies. Herein, we extend the technology recently developed for internalizing fluorescent single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in prokaryotes, specifically unicellular Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, to a filamentous cyanobacterial strain, Nostoc punctiforme. Using a combination of NIR fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy, we investigate uptake in vegetative cells as well as differentiated heterocysts. We demonstrate a strong dependence of long-term cell integrity, activity, and viability on SWCNT surface functionalization. We further show differential uptake of SWCNTs across a single filament, with positively charged functionalized SWCNTs preferentially localizing within the heterocysts of the filament. This cell dependency of the nanoparticle internalization motivates the use of SWCNTs as a NIR stain for monitoring cell differentiation.

Graphical abstract