bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radioprotective potential of whey protein against gamma irradiation-induced lingual damage
Authors: Hassan Hanaa M. , Abdeen Asmaa M. , Abdelrahman Ibrahim Y. , Abdo Walied , Mohammed Saher S. , Abdeen Ahmed , Abdelkader Afaf , Olga Rada , Fericean Liana , Ibrahim Samah F. , Ghamry Heba I. , Elgendy Farouk S. , Sorour Safwa M. , Eldeeb Abeer A. , Ahmed Osama , Rashed Fatema , Bikheet Maha M.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Ionizing radiation (IR) is effectively used in the treatment of oral malignancies; however, it might also significantly harm the surrounding tissues. Whey protein isolate (WP) is a protein derived from milk that exhibits a wide range of bioactivities. Therefore, the present research aimed to delineate the mitigating impact of WP against gamma irradiation-induced lingual damage.

Methods: Rats were randomized into 5 groups: Control (saline, orally, 14 days), WP (WP; 0.5 g/kg b. w., orally, 14 days), IR (saline, orally, 14 days, exposed to 6 and 3 Gy on days 4 and 6, respectively), WP+IR (WP was given orally for 14 days before and after IR exposure; exposed to 6 and 3 Gy on days 4 and 6, respectively), and IR+WP (WP, orally, started 24 h after 1st IR exposure till the end of the experiment) groups. Samples were collected at two-time intervals (on the 7th and 14th days).

Results and Discussion: Oxidative stress was stimulated upon IR exposure in tongue, indicated by boosted malondialdehyde (MDA) level, along with a decrease in the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities. Additionally, IR exposure depicted an increase of serum IgE, inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, along with overexpression mRNA levels of nuclear factor kappa-B transcription factor/p65 (NF-κB/p65), and down-regulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (NRF2) and heme oxygenase (HO-1) mRNA levels in tongue tissue. Moreover, IR triggered alterations in lingual histological architecture. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of WP mitigated oxidative damage, inflammation, and desquamation that were brought on following IR exposure. The protective administration of WP markedly decreases IR-induced lingual harm compared to the mitigation protocol. Our findings recommend WP supplements to the diets of cancer patients undergoing IR that might aid radioprotective effects.
Iberverin exhibits antineoplastic activities against human hepatocellular carcinoma via DNA damage-mediated cell cycle arrest and mitochondrial-related apoptosis
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Du Jiao , Jin Libo , Pan Liying , Yan Xiufeng , Lin Sue
Published: December 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the malignant tumors with high incidence and mortality rates in the world. Isothiocyanates (ITCs), bioactive substances present primarily in the plant order Brassicales, have been proved to be promising candidates for novel anti-HCC drugs with chemopreventive and anticancer activities. Iberverin, a predominant ITC isolated from the seeds of oxheart cabbage, has been discovered with anticancer property in lung cancer cells. However, the roles of iberverin in HCC remain elusive. In the present study, the effect and potential mechanisms of iberverin against human HCC were dissected. We demonstrated that low concentrations of iberverin inhibited cell proliferation, suppressed migration and induced mitochondrial-related apoptosis in vitro, and hampered tumorigenicity in vivo, with no obvious toxicity. Furthermore, we found that iberverin treatment induced DNA damage and G2/M phase arrest. Iberverin treatment also caused increased intracellular reactive oxygen species formation and glutathione depletion. Taken together, these results suggest that iberverin promotes mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis and induces DNA damage and G2/M cell cycle arrest in HCC by enhancing oxidative stress. Our findings provide better understanding of the anti-HCC mechanisms of ITCs and the potential for the natural product iberverin as a promising new anti-HCC biotherapeutic.
The efficacy of intranasal leptin for opioid-induced respiratory depression depends on sex and obesity state
Authors: Singer Michele L. , Shin Mi-Kyung , Kim Lenise J. , Freire Carla , Aung O , Pho Huy , East Joshua A. , Sgambati Frank P. , Latremoliere Alban , Pham Luu V. , Polotsky Vsevolod Y.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD) is the primary cause of death associated with opioids and individuals with obesity are particularly susceptible due to comorbid obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Repeated exposure to opioids, as in the case of pain management, results in diminished therapeutic effect and/or the need for higher doses to maintain the same effect. With limited means to address the negative impact of repeated exposure it is critical to develop drugs that prevent deaths induced by opioids without reducing beneficial analgesia.

Methods: We hypothesized that OIRD as a result of chronic opioid use can be attenuated by administration of IN leptin while also maintaining analgesia in both lean mice and mice with diet-induced obesity (DIO) of both sexes. To test this hypothesis, an opioid tolerance protocol was developed and a model of OIRD in mice chronically receiving morphine and tolerant to morphine analgesia was established. Subsequently, breathing was recorded by barometric plethysmography in four experimental groups: obese male, obese female, lean male, and lean female following acute administration of IN leptin. Respiratory data were complemented with measures of arterial blood gas. Operant behavioral assays were used to determine the impact of IN leptin on the analgesic efficacy of morphine.

Results: Acute administration of IN leptin significantly attenuated OIRD in DIO male mice decreasing the apnea index by 58.9% and apnea time by 60.1%. In lean mice leptin was ineffective. Blood gas measures confirmed the effectiveness of IN leptin for preventing respiratory acidosis in DIO male mice. However, IN leptin was not effective in lean mice of both sexes and appeared to exacerbate acid-base disturbances in DIO female mice. Additionally, morphine caused a complete loss of temperature aversion which was not reduced by intranasal leptin indicating IN leptin does not decrease morphine analgesia.

Discussion: IN leptin effectively treated OIRD in morphine-tolerant DIO male mice without impacting analgesia. In contrast, IN leptin had no effect in lean mice of either sex or DIO female mice. The arterial blood gas data were consistent with ventilatory findings showing that IN leptin reversed morphine-induced respiratory acidosis only in DIO male mice but not in other mouse groups. Finally, a hypercapnic sensitivity study revealed that IN leptin rescued minute ventilation under hypercapnic conditions only in DIO male mice, which suggests that differential responses to IN leptin are attributable to different leptin sensitivities depending on sex and the obesity status.
Aroma precursors of cigars from different tobacco parts and origins, and their correlations with sensory characteristics
Authors: Geng Zhaoliang , He Pei , Gao Huajun , Liu Jian , Qiu Jun , Cai Bin
Published: December 2023

Cigars are developing rapidly around the world, but the content characteristics of aroma precursors and their contribution to sensory perception have not been fully elucidated. In this study, 69 aroma precursors from 61 tobaccos of different parts and origins were systematically determined, and the sensory characteristics of middle leaves from different origins and their correlation with aroma precursors were evaluated. The results showed that tobacco parts mainly affected amino acid content, and contents of nicotine, oxalic acid, malic acid, isovaleric acid, cystine, glutarnine, glycine, isoleucine, glutamicacid, asparticacid, and fructose-proline were significantly changed. Tobacco origins mainly influenced the contents of amino acids, polyacids and high fatty acids, and sugar alcohols, and significantly affected the contents of myosmine, anabasine, nonanoic acid, propanetriol, mannitol, mannose, glucose, alanine, arginine, glutarnine, glutamicacid, histidine, serine, threonine, tryptophan, fructose-alanine, and fructose-asparagine. The flavor characteristics were prominent by wood aroma, and the style and quality characteristics varied greatly among different origins of middle leaves. There were 34, 21, and 22 aroma precursors with high correlations with flavor, style, and quality characteristics. This study provides support for regulating the content and coordination of aroma precursors in different tobacco parts and origins to improve sensory characteristics.
The effectiveness of a rational-emotive intervention on teachers’ unconditional self-acceptance, perfectionism, and pupil control ideology
Authors: Samfira Elena Mirela , Sava Florin Alin
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The present research aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) intervention on in-service teachers.

Methods

A quasi-experimental 2-group (intervention vs. control) × 3-time (pre, post-test, follow-up) design was applied to explore to what extent the REBT interventions help teachers increase their level of unconditional self-acceptance as the primary outcome and decrease their perfectionism tendencies and pupil control ideology as secondary outcomes. The sample consisted of 100 in-service teachers assigned to either the intervention group (n = 50) or the control group (n = 50). The experimental group received a 6-week intervention program. Every session was held weekly and lasted 90–120 min. The Unconditional Self-Acceptance Questionnaire (USAQ), Pupil Control Ideology Scale (PCI), and Perfectionism Inventory Scale (PI) were used to collect data. This study used a mixed model ANOVA 2 × 3 for data analysis.

Results

The results indicated that in the experimental group, there was a statistically significant increase in unconditional self-acceptance level from pre-test to post-test, which remains significant at the 6-month follow-up. Likewise, there were no statistically significant differences in unconditional self-acceptance levels between the post-test and 6-month follow-up in the intervention group.

Discussion

These findings prove that REBT interventions are effective in increasing teachers’ unconditional self-acceptance.
Beta oscillations in vision: a (preconscious) neural mechanism for the dorsal visual stream?
Authors: Di Dona Giuseppe , Ronconi Luca
Published: December 2023

Neural oscillations in alpha (8–12 Hz) and beta (13–30 Hz) frequency bands are thought to reflect feedback/reentrant loops and large-scale cortical interactions. In the last decades a main effort has been made in linking perception with alpha-band oscillations, with converging evidence showing that alpha oscillations have a key role in the temporal and featural binding of visual input, configuring the alpha rhythm a key determinant of conscious visual experience. Less attention has been historically dedicated to link beta oscillations and visual processing. Nonetheless, increasing studies report that task conditions that require to segregate/integrate stimuli in space, to disentangle local/global shapes, to spatially reorganize visual inputs, and to achieve motion perception or form-motion integration, rely on the activity of beta oscillations, with a main hub in parietal areas. In the present review, we summarize the evidence linking oscillations within the beta band and visual perception. We propose that beta oscillations represent a neural code that supports the functionality of the magnocellular-dorsal (M-D) visual pathway, serving as a fast primary neural code to exert top-down influences on the slower parvocellular-ventral visual pathway activity. Such M-D-related beta activity is proposed to act mainly pre-consciously, providing the spatial coordinates of vision and guiding the conscious extraction of objects identity that are achieved with slower alpha rhythms in ventral areas. Finally, within this new theoretical framework, we discuss the potential role of M-D-related beta oscillations in visuo-spatial attention, oculo-motor behavior and reading (dis)abilities.
Stanford neuromodulation therapy for treatment-resistant depression: a systematic review
Authors: Lan Xian-Jun , Cai Dong-Bin , Liu Qi-Man , Qin Zhen-Juan , Pridmore Saxby , Zheng Wei , Xiang Yu-Tao
Published: December 2023

Objective

This systematic review of randomized controlled studies (RCTs) and observational studies evaluated the efficacy and safety of stanford neuromodulation therapy (SNT) for patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD).

Methods

A systematic search (up to 25 September, 2023) of RCTs and single-arm prospective studies was conducted.

Results

One RCT (n = 29) and three single-arm prospective studies (n = 34) met the study entry criteria. In the RCT, compared to sham, active SNT was significantly associated with higher rates of antidepressant response (71.4% versus 13.3%) and remission (57.1% versus 0%). Two out of the three single-arm prospective studies reported the percentage of antidepressant response after completing SNT, ranging from 83.3% (5/6) to 90.5% (19/21). In the three single-arm prospective studies, the antidepressant remission rates ranged from 66.7% (4/6) to 90.5% (19/21). No severe adverse events occurred in all the four studies.

Conclusion

This systematic review found SNT significantly improved depressive symptoms in patients with TRD within 5 days, without severe adverse events.
Vaccine hesitancy among nursing and midwifery undergraduate students in Switzerland: protocol for an online national study
Authors: Pouvrasseau Audrey , Jeannot Emilien
Published: December 2023

Background

Vaccine hesitancy is a persistent challenge in public health, exacerbated by the proliferation of anti-vaccine sentiments facilitated by social networks. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of addressing vaccine hesitancy, designated by the WHO as a top global health threat. This study explores vaccine hesitancy among nursing and midwifery undergraduate students in Switzerland—a cohort crucial to public health given their future roles as healthcare professionals—with a particular emphasis on the HPV vaccine, which exhibits lower confidence levels compared to other vaccines.

Methods

This study will employ an online questionnaire distributed to nursing and midwifery undergraduate students from various healthcare universities. The questionnaire will collect data on vaccine hesitancy (general confidence in vaccines and specifically in the HPV vaccine), HPV vaccine coverage, socio-demographics, likelihood to recommend vaccines to patients, perception of vaccination education and interest in complementary medicine.

Conclusion

The study’s findings will contribute to our understanding of vaccine hesitancy among nursing and midwifery undergraduate students, providing insights that can inform targeted interventions and education strategies to bolster vaccine confidence among future healthcare professionals, thereby enhancing public health efforts.
Prenatal exposure to bisphenol A and/or diethylhexyl phthalate alters stress responses in rat offspring in a sex- and dose-dependent manner
Authors: Kaimal Amrita , Hooversmith Jessica M. , Cherry Ariana D. , Garrity Jillian T. , Al Mansi Maryam H. , Martin Nicholas M. , Buechter Hannah , Holmes Philip V. , MohanKumar Puliyur S. , MohanKumar Sheba M. J.
Published: December 2023

Background: Prenatal exposures to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are correlated with adverse behavioral outcomes, but the effects of combinations of these chemicals are unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the dose-dependent effects of prenatal exposure to EDCs on male and female behavior.

Methods: Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were orally dosed with vehicle, bisphenol A (BPA) (5 μg/kg body weight (BW)/day), low-dose (LD) diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) (5 μg/kg BW/day), high-dose (HD) DEHP (7.5 mg/kg BW/day), a combination of BPA and LD-DEHP (B + D (LD)), or a combination of BPA and HD-DEHP (B + D (HD)) on gestational days 6–21. Adult offspring were subjected to the Open Field Test (OFT), Elevated Plus Maze (EPM), and Shock Probe Defensive Burying test (SPDB) in adulthood. Body, adrenal gland, and pituitary gland weights were collected at sacrifice. Corticosterone (CORT) was measured in the serum.

Results: Female EDC-exposed offspring showed anxiolytic effects in the OFT, while male offspring were unaffected. DEHP (HD) male offspring demonstrated a feminization of behavior in the EPM. Most EDC-exposed male offspring buried less in the SPDB, while their female counterparts showed reduced shock reactivity, indicating sex-specific maladaptive alterations in defensive behaviors. Additionally, DEHP (LD) males and females and B + D (LD) females displayed increased immobility in this test. DEHP (LD) alone and in combination with BPA led to lower adrenal gland weights, but only in male offspring. Finally, females treated with a mixture of B + D (HD) had elevated CORT levels.

Conclusion: Prenatal exposure to BPA, DEHP, or a mixture of the two, affects behavior, CORT levels, and adrenal gland weights in a sex- and dose-dependent manner.
Design and Testing of a Wheeled Crop-Growth-Monitoring Robot Chassis
Authors: Yao Lili , Yuan Huali , Zhu Yan , Jiang Xiaoping , Cao Weixing , Ni Jun
Published: December 2023

The high-flux acquisition of crop growth information can be realized using field monitoring robotic platforms. However, most of the existing agricultural monitoring robots have been converted from expensive commercial platforms, and they thus have a hard time adapting to the farmland working environment, let alone satisfying the basic requirements of sensor testing. To address these problems, a wheeled crop-growth-monitoring robot that features the accurate, nondestructive, and efficient acquisition of crop growth information was developed based on the cultivation characteristics of wheat, the obstacle characteristics of the wheat field, and the monitoring mechanism of spectral sensors. By analyzing the phenotypic structural change characteristics and the requirements for the row spacing of different wheat varieties throughout the growth period, a four-wheel mobile chassis was designed with an adjustable wheel track and a high-clearance body structure that can effectively eliminate the risk of the robot destroying the wheat during operation. Moreover, considering the requirements for wheeled robots to overcome obstacles in field operations, a three-dimensional (3D) model of the robot was created in Pro/E. Models of obstacles in the field (e.g., pits and bumps) were created in Adams to simulate the operational stability of the robot. The simulation results showed that the mass center displacement of the robot was smaller than 0.2 cm on flat pavement and the maximum mass center displacement was 1.78 cm during obstacle crossing (10 cm deep pits and 10 cm high bumps). The field test showed that the robot equipped with active-light-source crop growth sensors achieved stable, real-time, nondestructive, and accurate acquisition of the canopy vegetation parameters—NDVI (normalized difference vegetation index) and RVI (ratio vegetation index)—and the wheat growth parameters—LAI (leaf area index), LDW (leaf dry weight), LNA (leaf nitrogen accumulation), and LNC (leaf nitrogen content).
Clicker Training as an Applied Refinement Measure in Chickens
Authors: Mählis Gordon , Kleine Anne , Lüschow Dörte , Bartel Alexander , Wiegard Mechthild , Thoene-Reineke Christa
Published: December 2023

When using chickens in animal studies, the handling of these animals for sample collection or general examinations is considered stressful due to their prey nature. For the study presented here, plasma and salivary corticosterone as well as New Area Test behavior and fecal output were used to evaluate whether it is possible to influence this stress perception using a three-week clicker training program. The results indicate that clicker training seems to be a suitable refinement measure in the sense of cognitive enrichment for the husbandry of this species. However, since it was also shown that three-week training was not sufficient to sustainably reduce the stress perception with regard to prolonged stressor exposure, and since it was also evident that manipulations such as routine blood sampling are perceived as less stressful than assumed, further studies with prolonged training intervals and situations with higher stressor potential are warranted. Also, further parameters for training assessment must be considered. For the general use of training as a supportive measure in animal experiments, its proportionality must be considered, particularly considering the expected stress and adequate training time.
Various Endoscopic Approaches for Removal of Proventricular Foreign Bodies in Parrots—Three Case Reports
Authors: Kim Sungryong , Kim Nari , Kim Hakhyun , Na Ki-Jeong , Hong Eui-Ju , Jeong Dong-Hyuk
Published: December 2023

Although the use of incision-free endoscopy for foreign body (FB) removal in dogs and cats has been extensively documented, its application in birds remains limited. Thus, we present the endoscopic removal of gastrointestinal (GI) FBs from psittacine birds, employing different patient positioning and anesthesia methods. Two blue-and-yellow macaws (Ara ararauna) and a Triton cockatoo (Cacatua galerita triton) were examined. X-ray imaging revealed FBs situated in the proventriculus in each case. The FBs, all identified as feeding tubes, were safely removed using grasping forceps during the endoscopic procedure, and no severe complications occurred. Based on the outcomes of each operation, the most suitable patient position may be ventral recumbency rather than dorsal recumbency, with the use of a mask or endotracheal intubation, depending on the anticipated operation time. However, a larger number of cases would be necessary to confirm the optimal patient positioning and anesthesia method.
Important Role of the Ihh Signaling Pathway in Initiating Early Cranial Remodeling and Morphological Specialization in Cromileptes altivelis
Authors: Cao Xiaoying , Deng Shunyun , Liu Quanyin , Wu Lisheng , Zhuang Xuan , Ding Shaoxiong
Published: December 2023

In this study, we identified the important contribution of frontal bone remodeling in shaping the ‘sunken head and humpback’ appearance in C. altivelis. Our investigation identified a developmental milestone at a total length of 5–6 cm, making the onset of its morphologic specialization in this species. A comparative analysis with closely related species reveals heightened activity in the frontal osteoblasts of the humpback grouper, potentially providing a physiological basis for its remodeling. Furthermore, our findings highlight that a significant upregulation in the expression levels of Ihhb, Ptch1, and Gli2a genes was seen in C. altivelis within the specified developmental stage, indicating an important involvement of the Ihhb-Ptch1-Gli2a signaling pathway in initiating the morphological specialization. We hypothesized that Ihh signaling could be attributed to shifts in mechanical stress, resulting from muscle traction on the frontal bone due to changes in swimming patterns during development. This study not only offers significant insights into unraveling the molecular mechanisms that govern phenotypic specialization and ecological adaptations in the humpback grouper but also serves as a valuable reference for studies on fishes with a controversial morphology and molecular phylogeny.
Canine Pyothorax: Comparison of Culture and Susceptibility Results to the BSAVA PROTECT ME Poster and Other Published Recommended Antimicrobial Use Guidelines
Authors: Heinsoo Iris , Walker David J. , Bergum Hjellegjerde Kine , Tang Julia W. Y. , Moores Alison L.
Published: December 2023

The most common bacterial isolates in dogs with pyothorax include mixed anaerobes, Enterobacteriaceae (especially Escherichia coli), Pasteurella spp., Streptococcus spp., and Staphylococcus spp. A fluoroquinolone with amoxicillin (±clavulanate) or a fluoroquinolone with clindamycin are the most commonly recommended empirical antimicrobials whilst pending bacterial culture of the pleural effusion. The aim of this study is to review and compare the pleural effusion culture and antimicrobial susceptibility results to the PROTECT ME poster and other published antimicrobial use guidelines. The medical records of 53 dogs diagnosed with pyothorax between 2014 and 2020 at two veterinary referral centres were reviewed. Information, including culture and susceptibility results, was assessed. Antimicrobial susceptibility panels varied; susceptibility to a particular antibiotic was calculated as a percentage of isolates tested against the same antibiotic. A total of 30 of 53 dogs (57.7%) had a positive pleural fluid culture. The most common isolates were Pasteurella species (23.3%), Escherichia coli (23.3%), and mixed anaerobes (20%). From the aerobic isolates, 73–83% were susceptible to a fluoroquinolone, 14/19 (74%) to amoxicillin, and 20/22 (91%) to potentiated amoxicillin. Resistance to clindamycin was documented in 9/13 (69%) aerobic isolates, with all Gram-negative bacteria (9/9) being resistant. The combination of potentiated amoxicillin with marbofloxacin would have been appropriate in most of the dogs (75–92.9%). This study shows a high rate of resistance to clindamycin, which is not a suitable option for monotherapy and may be less effective in combination therapy compared to potentiated amoxicillin.
An Update on Recent Studies Focusing on the Antioxidant Properties of Salvia Species
Authors: Iacopetta Domenico , Ceramella Jessica , Scumaci Domenica , Catalano Alessia , Sinicropi Maria Stefania , Tundis Rosa , Alcaro Stefano , Borges Fernanda
Published: December 2023

Nutrition has crucial effects and a significant role in disease prevention. Recently, nutraceuticals have attracted much attention in scientific research due to their pleiotropic effects and relatively non-toxic behavior. Among the biological effects displayed by plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family, such as antibacterial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and anticholinesterase, sage is well known for its antioxidant properties and is a rich source of numerous compounds that are biologically active, amongst them polyphenols, with more than 160 types identified. In this review we summarized some of the significant studies published in the last decade reporting the most employed extraction methods and the different assays that are useful for establishing the antioxidant properties of some sage species. Even though the scientific literature contains plenty of data regarding the antioxidant properties of many sage species, further studies are needed in order to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanism of action and the compounds responsible for their antioxidant activity. Finally, it should be taken into account that the data on the antioxidant properties of sage extracts are often difficult to compare with each other, since a series of variables in the extraction procedures, the type of assay used, and standardization may affect the final result.
Essential Oils in Cervical Cancer: Narrative Review on Current Insights and Future Prospects
Authors: Abd Rashid Norhashima , Mohamad Najib Nor Haliza , Abdul Jalil Nahdia Afiifah , Teoh Seong Lin
Published: December 2023

Cervical cancer is a prevalent and often devastating disease affecting women worldwide. Traditional treatment modalities such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy have significantly improved survival rates, but they are often accompanied by side effects and challenges that can impact a patient’s quality of life. In recent years, the integration of essential oils into the management of cervical cancer has gained attention. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the role of various essential oils in cervical cancer, offering insights into their potential benefits and the existing body of research. The review also delves into future directions and challenges in this emerging field, emphasizing promising research areas and advanced delivery systems. The encapsulation of essential oils with solid lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsification of essential oils, or the combination of essential oils with conventional treatments showed promising results by increasing the anticancer properties of essential oils. As the use of essential oils in cervical cancer treatment or management evolves, this review aims to provide a comprehensive perspective, balancing the potential of these natural remedies with the challenges and considerations that need to be addressed.
Congestive Heart Failure Category Classification Using Neural Networks in Short-Term Series
Authors: López Juan L. , Vásquez-Coronel José A.
Published: December 2023

Congestive heart failure carries immense importance in the realm of public health. This significance arises from its substantial influence on the number of lives lost, economic burdens, the potential for prevention, and the opportunity to enhance the well-being of both individuals and the broader community through decision-making in healthcare. Several researchers have proposed neural networks for classification of different congestive heart failure categories. However, there is little information about the confidence of the prediction on short-term series. Therefore, evaluating classification models is required for effective decision-making in healthcare. This paper explores the use of three classical variants of neural networks to classify three groups of patients with congestive heart failure. The study considered the iterative method Multilayer Perceptron neural network (MLP), two non-iterative models (Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) and Random Vector Functional Link Network (RVFL)), and the CNN approach. The results showed that the deep feature learning system obtained better classification rates than MLP, ELM, and RVFL. Several scenarios designed by coupling some deep feature maps with the RVFL and MLP models showed very high simulation accuracy. The overall accuracy rate of CNN–MLP and CNN–RVFL varies between 98% and 99%.
Application of Ant Colony Optimization Computing to a Recommended Travel Itinerary Planning System with Repeatedly Used Nodes
Authors: Chen Shuo-Tsung , Wu Tsung-Hsien , Ye Ren-Jie , Lee Liang-Ching , Huang Wen-Yu , Lin Yi-Hong , Wang Bo-Yao
Published: December 2023

Recommended travel itinerary planning is an important issue in travel platforms or travel systems. Most research focuses on minimizing the time spent traveling between attractions or the cost of attractions. This study makes four contributions to recommended travel itinerary planning in travel platforms or travel systems. The first contribution is to consider recommended travel itinerary planning which can account for attractions, restaurants, and hotels at the same time. Due to the fact that restaurants and hotels can be repeated on the recommended itinerary, the second contribution is to propose an improved ant colony system (ACS) with repeatedly used nodes for the optimization of travel itinerary planning. In the third contribution, the proposed improved ACS allows repeated use of certain nodes without falling into a pattern of infinitely hovering within a certain interval or over certain nodes, through the interactive operation of a Watch List and a Tabu List. In the fourth contribution, the user satisfaction calculation for restaurants and hotels is also added to the travel itinerary planning in order to fully meet the needs of tourists. The experimental results verify the efficiency of the proposed improved ACS.
A Novel Criticality Analysis Method for Assessing Obesity Treatment Efficacy
Authors: Eltanani Shadi , olde Scheper Tjeerd V. , Muñoz-Balbontin Mireya , Aldea Arantza , Cossington Jo , Lawrie Sophie , Villalpando-Carrion Salvador , Adame Maria Jose , Felgueres Daniela , Martin Clare , Dawes Helen
Published: December 2023

Human gait is a significant indicator of overall health and well-being due to its dependence on metabolic requirements. Abnormalities in gait can indicate the presence of metabolic dysfunction, such as diabetes or obesity. However, detecting these can be challenging using classical methods, which often involve subjective clinical assessments or invasive procedures. In this work, a novel methodology known as Criticality Analysis (CA) was applied to the monitoring of the gait of teenagers with varying amounts of metabolic stress who are taking part in an clinical intervention to increase their activity and reduce overall weight. The CA approach analysed gait using inertial measurement units (IMU) by mapping the dynamic gait pattern into a nonlinear representation space. The resulting dynamic paths were then classified using a Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm, which is well-suited for this task due to its ability to handle nonlinear and dynamic data. The combination of the CA approach and the SVM algorithm demonstrated high accuracy and non-invasive detection of metabolic stress. It resulted in an average accuracy within the range of 78.2% to 90%. Additionally, at the group level, it was observed to improve fitness and health during the period of the intervention. Therefore, this methodology showed a great potential to be a valuable tool for healthcare professionals in detecting and monitoring metabolic stress, as well as other associated disorders.
Assessment of the Long-Term Leaching Behavior of Incineration Bottom Ash: A Study of Two Waste Incinerators in Germany
Authors: Simon Franz-Georg , Scholz Philipp
Published: December 2023

The long-term leaching behavior of incineration bottom ash (IBA) was studied with large-scale samples from two German waste incinerators with grate technology. The observation period was up to 281 days. The aging processes proceeded faster in the outdoor storage of the samples. The dominant factor in the leaching behavior is the pH, which starts at values above 12 and decreases to values below 10 (outdoors, <11 indoors). Most heavy metals exhibit minimum solubility in this pH range. The solubility of Sb depends on the prevailing Ca concentration, due to the formation of low-soluble Ca antimonate. The very low sulfate concentrations observed in the leaching tests with fresh IBA could be explained by the presence of ettringite. In the course of the aging reaction, ettringite is transformed into gypsum. The results from batch tests were compared with those from column tests, showing reasonable agreement. Leaching dynamics can be better followed with column tests. All results confirm that the use of IBA is possible under German law.
An Asynchronous Parallel I/O Framework for Mass Conservation Ocean Model
Authors: Pang Renbo , Yu Fujiang , Zhang Yu , Yuan Ye
Published: December 2023

I/O is often a performance bottleneck in global ocean circulation models with fine spatial resolution. In this paper, we present an asynchronous parallel I/O framework and demonstrate its efficacy in the Mass Conservation Ocean Model (MaCOM) as a case study. By largely reducing I/O operations in computing processes and overlapping output in I/O processes with computation in computing processes, this framework significantly improves the performance of the MaCOM. Through both reordering output data for maintaining data continuity and combining file access for reducing file operations, the I/O optimizing algorithms are provided to improve output bandwidth. In the case study of the MaCOM, the cost of output in I/O processes can be overlapped by up to 99% with computation in computing processes as decreasing output frequency. The 1D data output bandwidth with these I/O optimizing algorithms is 3.1 times faster than before optimization at 16 I/O worker processes. Compared to the synchronous parallel I/O framework, the overall performance of MaCOM is improved by 38.8% at 1024 computing processes for a 7-day global ocean forecast with 1 output every 2 h through the asynchronous parallel I/O framework presented in this paper.
Application of a Deep Learning Method to the Seismic Vulnerability Analysis of Cross-Fault Hydraulic Tunnels Based on MLE-IDA
Authors: Cao Wenyu , Sun Benbo , Wang Pengxiao
Published: December 2023

Rapidly developed deep learning methods, widely used in various fields of civil engineering, have provided an efficient option to reduce the computational costs and improve the predictive capabilities. However, it should be acknowledged that the application of deep learning methods to develop prediction models that efficiently assess the nonlinear dynamic responses of cross-fault hydraulic tunnels (CFHTs) is lacking. Thus, the objective of this study is to construct a rational artificial neural network (ANN) prediction model to generate the mass data and fragility curves of CFHTs. Firstly, an analysis of 1080 complete nonlinear dynamic time histories via incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) is conducted to obtain the mass data of the drift ratio of the CFHT. Then, the hyper-parameters of the ANN model are discussed to determine the optimal parameters based on four examined approaches to improve the prediction capacity and accuracy. Meanwhile, the traditional probabilistic seismic demand models of the predicted values obtained by the ANN model and the numerical results are compared with the statistical parameters. Eventually, the maximum likelihood estimation couping IDA method is applied to assess the seismic safety of CFHTs under different damage states. The results show that two hidden layers, ten neurons, and the ReLU activation function for the ANN model with Bayesian optimization can improve the reliability and decrease the uncertainty in evaluating the structural performance. Moreover, the amplitude of the seismology features can be used as the neurons to build the input layers of the ANN model. It is found through vulnerability analysis that the traditional seismic fragility analysis method may overestimate the earthquake resistance capacity of CFHTs compared with maximum likelihood estimation. In practical engineering, ANN methods can be regarded as an alternative approach for the seismic design and performance improvement of CFHTs.
Establishing a Real-Time Prediction System for Fine Particulate Matter Concentration Using Machine-Learning Models
Authors: Wei Chih-Chiang , Kao Wei-Jen
Published: December 2023

With the rapid urbanization and industrialization in Taiwan, pollutants generated from industrial processes, coal combustion, and vehicle emissions have led to severe air pollution issues. This study focuses on predicting the fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentration. This enables individuals to be aware of their immediate surroundings in advance, reducing their exposure to high concentrations of fine particulate matter. The research area includes Keelung City and Xizhi District in New Taipei City, located in northern Taiwan. This study establishes five fine prediction models based on machine-learning algorithms, namely, the deep neural network (DNN), M5’ decision tree algorithm (M5P), M5’ rules decision tree algorithm (M5Rules), alternating model tree (AMT), and multiple linear regression (MLR). Based on the predictive results from these five models, the study evaluates the optimal model for forecast horizons and proposes a real-time PM2.5 concentration prediction system by integrating various models. The results demonstrate that the prediction errors vary across different models at different forecast horizons, with no single model consistently outperforming the others. Therefore, the establishment of a hybrid prediction system proves to be more accurate in predicting future PM2.5 concentration compared to a single model. To assess the practicality of the system, the study process involved simulating data, with a particular focus on the winter season when high PM2.5 concentrations are prevalent. The predictive system generated excellent results, even though errors increased in long-term predictions. The system can promptly adjust its predictions over time, effectively forecasting the PM2.5 concentration for the next 12 h.
Research on Typhoon Multi-Stage Cloud Characteristics Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Wang Mengran , Cao Yongqiang , Yao Jiaqi , Zhu Hong , Zhang Ningyue , Ji Xinhui , Li Jing , Guo Zichun
Published: December 2023

Analyzing the development and evolution characteristics of typhoons are conducive to improving typhoon monitoring and optimizing early warning models. Based on the deep learning model YOLOv5 and Himawari-8 data products, this study analyzes the movement path and cloud evolution of typhoon “Infa”. The specific conclusions of this study are as follows. (1) Based on the YOLOv5 model and brightness temperature perturbation algorithm, the central positioning of the typhoon is realized, where the Himawari-8 bright temperature image is used as the input of the model and the output of the model is the typhoon range boundary. The results show that this method was 90% accurate for monitoring ocular typhoons and 83% accurate for blind typhoons. The typhoon center location determined by the brightness temperature perturbation algorithm closely matched the CMA best-path dataset (CMA) (goodness of fit ≈0.99). (2) This study observed that as typhoons developed, cloud parameters evolved with the cloud cluster becoming denser. However, as the typhoon neared land, the cloud structure collapsed and cloud parameters decreased rapidly. (3) Changes in the typhoon cloud system were linked to topography and surface temperature. Changes in cloud optical thickness (COT) were influenced by the digital elevation model (correlation −0.18), while changes in cloud top temperature (CTT) and cloud top height (CTH) were primarily affected by surface temperature changes (correlation values: CTT −0.69, CTH −0.37). This suggests that the ocean environment supports the vertical development of typhoon clouds and precipitation. In summary, this study optimized the positioning simulation of typhoon movement paths and cloud change trends, and this is helpful for improving the early warning and response-ability of typhoons in coastal cities and for reducing the threat of typhoons to the daily life of residents in coastal areas.
Regression of the Rician Noise Level in 3D Magnetic Resonance Images from the Distribution of the First Significant Digit
Authors: Maza-Quiroga Rosa , Thurnhofer-Hemsi Karl , López-Rodríguez Domingo , López-Rubio Ezequiel
Published: December 2023

This paper investigates the distribution characteristics of Fourier, discrete cosine, and discrete sine transform coefficients in T1 MRI images. This paper reveals their adherence to Benford’s law, characterized by a logarithmic distribution of first digits. The impact of Rician noise on the first digit distribution is examined, which causes deviations from the ideal distribution. A novel methodology is proposed for noise level estimation, employing metrics such as the Bhattacharyya distance, Kullback–Leibler divergence, total variation distance, Hellinger distance, and Jensen–Shannon divergence. Supervised learning techniques utilize these metrics as regressors. Evaluations on MRI scans from several datasets coming from a wide range of different acquisition devices of 1.5 T and 3 T, comprising hundreds of patients, validate the adherence of noiseless T1 MRI frequency domain coefficients to Benford’s law. Through rigorous experimentation, our methodology has demonstrated competitiveness with established noise estimation techniques, even surpassing them in numerous conducted experiments. This research empirically supports the application of Benford’s law in transforms, offering a reliable approach for noise estimation in denoising algorithms and advancing image quality assessment.
Development and Validation of an Artificial Intelligence Preoperative Planning and Patient-Specific Instrumentation System for Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Li Songlin , Liu Xingyu , Chen Xi , Xu Hongjun , Zhang Yiling , Qian Wenwei
Published: December 2023

Background: Accurate preoperative planning for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is crucial. Computed tomography (CT)-based preoperative planning offers more comprehensive information and can also be used to design patient-specific instrumentation (PSI), but it requires well-reconstructed and segmented images, and the process is complex and time-consuming. This study aimed to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) preoperative planning and PSI system for TKA and to validate its time savings and accuracy in clinical applications. Methods: The 3D-UNet and modified HRNet neural network structures were used to develop the AI preoperative planning and PSI system (AIJOINT). Forty-two patients who were scheduled for TKA underwent both AI and manual CT processing and planning for component sizing, 20 of whom had their PSIs designed and applied intraoperatively. The time consumed and the size and orientation of the postoperative component were recorded. Results: The Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and loss function indicated excellent performance of the neural network structure in CT image segmentation. AIJOINT was faster than conventional methods for CT segmentation (3.74 ± 0.82 vs. 128.88 ± 17.31 min, p < 0.05) and PSI design (35.10 ± 3.98 vs. 159.52 ± 17.14 min, p < 0.05) without increasing the time for size planning. The accuracy of AIJOINT in planning the size of both femoral and tibial components was 92.9%, while the accuracy of the conventional method in planning the size of the femoral and tibial components was 42.9% and 47.6%, respectively (p < 0.05). In addition, AI-based PSI improved the accuracy of the hip–knee–ankle angle and reduced postoperative blood loss (p < 0.05). Conclusion: AIJOINT significantly reduces the time needed for CT processing and PSI design without increasing the time for size planning, accurately predicts the component size, and improves the accuracy of lower limb alignment in TKA patients, providing a meaningful supplement to the application of AI in orthopaedics.
Benefits of Harmonicity for Hearing in Noise Are Limited to Detection and Pitch-Related Discrimination Tasks
Authors: Rajappa Neha , Guest Daniel R. , Oxenham Andrew J.
Published: December 2023

Harmonic complex tones are easier to detect in noise than inharmonic complex tones, providing a potential perceptual advantage in complex auditory environments. Here, we explored whether the harmonic advantage extends to other auditory tasks that are important for navigating a noisy auditory environment, such as amplitude- and frequency-modulation detection. Sixty young normal-hearing listeners were tested, divided into two equal groups with and without musical training. Consistent with earlier studies, harmonic tones were easier to detect in noise than inharmonic tones, with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) advantage of about 2.5 dB, and the pitch discrimination of the harmonic tones was more accurate than that of inharmonic tones, even after differences in audibility were accounted for. In contrast, neither amplitude- nor frequency-modulation detection was superior with harmonic tones once differences in audibility were accounted for. Musical training was associated with better performance only in pitch-discrimination and frequency-modulation-detection tasks. The results confirm a detection and pitch-perception advantage for harmonic tones but reveal that the harmonic benefits do not extend to suprathreshold tasks that do not rely on extracting the fundamental frequency. A general theory is proposed that may account for the effects of both noise and memory on pitch-discrimination differences between harmonic and inharmonic tones.