bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Green Route to Methyl Formate from CO2-Derived Formamides over Solid Base Catalysts
Authors: He Xin , Guo Xu , Xia Guofu , Xu Run , Wu Yu , Luan Xuebin
Published: February 2023

The transformation of CO2 and CO2-derived chemicals into high value-added chemicals is an important method for reducing CO2 emissions and achieving carbon neutrality. Methyl formate (MF) is a critical C1 building block in synthesizing a wide range of important chemicals, such as formic acid, ethylene glycol, and formamide methyl propionate. Here, we report a green route for the sustainable synthesis of MF from CO2-derived formamides via the alcoholysis reaction catalyzed by supported CaO solid bases. The CaO/MgO catalyst with 13.5 wt.% CaO exhibited higher alcoholysis reaction efficiency and achieved 94.5% conversion of N-formylmorpholine and 100% selectivity of MF in methanol at 120 °C. Based on the kinetic studies, characterization results of structural and basic properties (XRD, and TEM, CO2-TPD, etc.), we found that the density of strong basic sites is linearly related to the activity of alcoholysis reaction, and the higher the base density on these catalysts, the greater the reaction rate. This study presents a sustainable route for the synthesis of MF by using CO2-derived formamides and green methanol, and a promising strategy for producing more efficient solid alcoholysis catalysts of amides.
Water-Based Photocatalytic Sol–Gel TiO2 Coatings: Synthesis and Durability
Authors: Bellè Umberto , Spini Daniela , Del Curto Barbara , Pedeferri MariaPia , Diamanti Maria Vittoria
Published: February 2023

The environmental impact of industrial technologies and related remediation methods are major research trend lines. Unfortunately, in the development of materials for wastewater treatment or air purification, hazardous reactants are often employed, reducing the overall beneficial contribution of such technology on the environment. We here synthesize stable titanium dioxide (TiO2) sols using a green route, with titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP) as precursor, water as solvent and acetic acid acting as catalyst, chelating agent and peptizing agent. The sol was deposited on glass by dip-coating and then analyzed using XRD, SEM and spectrophotometry. Wastewater purification ability was evaluated in the photocatalytic degradation of two organic dyes (Rhodamine B and Methylene Blue). Results on RhB showed > 85% degradation in 6 h maintained along a series of 7 tests, confirming good efficiency and reusability, and 100% in 3 h on MB; efficiency mostly depended on calcination temperature and layer thickness. High photodegradation efficiency was found in nonannealed samples, suggesting TiO2 nanoparticles crystallization during sol–gel production. Yet, such samples showed a gradual decrease in photoactivity in repeated tests, probably due to a partial release of TiO2 particles in solution, while on calcined samples a good adhesion was obtained, leading to a more durable photoactive layer.
Metal-Catalyzed Cascade Reactions between Alkynoic Acids and Dinucleophiles: A Review
Authors: Herrero María , Díaz de Sarralde Jokin , Conde Nerea , Herrán Aitor , Urgoitia Garazi , SanMartin Raul
Published: February 2023

Cascade reactions provide a straightforward access to many valuable compounds and reduce considerably the number of steps of a synthetic sequence. Among the domino and multicomponent processes that involve alkynes, the cascade reaction between alkynoic acids and C-, N-, O- and S-aminonucleophiles stands out as a particularly powerful tool for the one-pot construction of libraries of nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds with scaffold diversity and molecular complexity. This reaction, based on an initial metal-catalyzed cycloisomerization that generates an alkylidene lactone intermediate, was originally catalyzed by gold(I) catalysts, along with silver salts or Brönsted acid additives, but other alternative metal catalysts have emerged in the last decade as well as different reaction media. This review examines the existing literature on the topic of metal-catalyzed cascade reactions of acetylenic acids and dinucleophiles and discusses aspects concerning substrate/catalyst ratio for every catalyst system, nature of the aminonucleophile involved and substrate scope. In addition, alternative solvents are also considered, and an insight into the pathway of the reaction and possible intermediates is also provided.
Effect of Fe on Calcined Ni(OH)2 Anode in Alkaline Water Electrolysis
Authors: Kim Tae-Hyun , Koo Kee-Young , Park Chu-Sik , Jeong Seong-Uk , Kim Ji-Eun , Lee Su-Han , Kim Young-Ho , Kang Kyoung-Soo
Published: February 2023

Ni (hydr)oxide is a promising and inexpensive material for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts and is known to dramatically increase the activity when used with Fe. Herein, we basified a Ni(II) solution and coated layered Ni(OH)2 on Ni coins to prepare a template with high stability and activity. To evaluate the stability and catalytic activity during high-current-density operation, we analyzed the electrochemical and physicochemical properties before and after constant current (CC) operation. The electrode with a Ni(OH)2 surface exhibited higher initial activity than that with a NiO surface; however, after the OER operation at a high-current density, degradation occurred owing to structural destruction. The activity of the electrodes with a NiO surface improved after the CC operation because of the changes on the electrode-surface caused by the CC operation and the subsequent Fe incorporation from the Fe impurity in the electrolyte. After confirming the improvement in activity due to Fe, we prepared NiFe-oxide electrodes with improved catalytic activity and optimized the Ni precursor and Fe loading solution concentrations. The Ni-Fe oxide electrode prepared under the optimal concentrations exhibited an overpotential of 287 mV at a current density of 10 mA/cm2, and a tafel slope of 37 mV dec−1, indicating an improvement in the OER activity.
Recent Advances in the Treatment of Genetic Forms of Parkinson’s Disease: Hype or Hope?
Authors: Cavallieri Francesco , Cury Rubens G. , Guimarães Thiago , Fioravanti Valentina , Grisanti Sara , Rossi Jessica , Monfrini Edoardo , Zedde Marialuisa , Di Fonzo Alessio , Valzania Franco , Moro Elena
Published: February 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a multifarious neurodegenerative disease. Its pathology is characterized by a prominent early death of dopaminergic neurons in the pars compacta of the substantia nigra and the presence of Lewy bodies with aggregated α-synuclein. Although the α-synuclein pathological aggregation and propagation, induced by several factors, is considered one of the most relevant hypotheses, PD pathogenesis is still a matter of debate. Indeed, environmental factors and genetic predisposition play an important role in PD. Mutations associated with a high risk for PD, usually called monogenic PD, underlie 5% to 10% of all PD cases. However, this percentage tends to increase over time because of the continuous identification of new genes associated with PD. The identification of genetic variants that can cause or increase the risk of PD has also given researchers the possibility to explore new personalized therapies. In this narrative review, we discuss the recent advances in the treatment of genetic forms of PD, focusing on different pathophysiologic aspects and ongoing clinical trials.
Functionalizing Collagen Membranes with MSC-Conditioned Media Promotes Guided Bone Regeneration in Rat Calvarial Defects
Authors: Shanbhag Siddharth , Kampleitner Carina , Al-Sharabi Niyaz , Mohamed-Ahmed Samih , Apaza Alccayhuaman Karol Ali , Heimel Patrick , Tangl Stefan , Beinlich Andreas , Rana Neha , Sanz Mariano , Kristoffersen Einar K. , Mustafa Kamal , Gruber Reinhard
Published: February 2023

Functionalizing biomaterials with conditioned media (CM) from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) is a promising strategy for enhancing the outcomes of guided bone regeneration (GBR). This study aimed to evaluate the bone regenerative potential of collagen membranes (MEM) functionalized with CM from human bone marrow MSC (MEM-CM) in critical size rat calvarial defects. MEM-CM prepared via soaking (CM-SOAK) or soaking followed by lyophilization (CM-LYO) were applied to critical size rat calvarial defects. Control treatments included native MEM, MEM with rat MSC (CEL) and no treatment. New bone formation was analyzed via micro-CT (2 and 4 weeks) and histology (4 weeks). Greater radiographic new bone formation occurred at 2 weeks in the CM-LYO group vs. all other groups. After 4 weeks, only the CM-LYO group was superior to the untreated control group, whereas the CM-SOAK, CEL and native MEM groups were similar. Histologically, the regenerated tissues showed a combination of regular new bone and hybrid new bone, which formed within the membrane compartment and was characterized by the incorporation of mineralized MEM fibers. Areas of new bone formation and MEM mineralization were greatest in the CM-LYO group. Proteomic analysis of lyophilized CM revealed the enrichment of several proteins and biological processes related to bone formation. In summary, lyophilized MEM-CM enhanced new bone formation in rat calvarial defects, thus representing a novel ‘off-the-shelf’ strategy for GBR.
Paper-Based Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) Platforms: Integrating the Versatility of Paper Microfluidics with Accuracy of Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests
Authors: Das Debayan , Masetty Manaswini , Priye Aashish
Published: February 2023

Paper-based diagnostics offer a promising alternative to traditional diagnostic methods for point-of-care use due to their low cost, ease of use, portability, rapid results, versatility, and low environmental impact. While paper-based serology tests in the form of lateral flow assays can provide rapid test results for past pathogen exposure, they currently lack the accuracy and sensitivity offered by molecular diagnostic tests such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP)—an isothermal nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT)—provides PCR-like performance while simultaneously reducing the instrumentation and assay complexity associated with PCR. In this review, we discuss a newly emerging class of paper-based LAMP platforms that integrates the versatility of paper microfluidics with the accuracy of NAATs. Since its first adoption in 2015, we have discussed all paper-based LAMP platforms in terms of the paper substrates, reagent incorporation techniques, paper platform design, heating hardware, detection methods, and sensitivity and specificity of paper-based LAMP assays. We conclude by identifying the current challenges and future prospects of paper-based NAATs.
Molecular Changes in Cells of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Depending on Changes in Glycemia Level in the Context of Lifestyle—An Overview of the Latest Scientific Discoveries
Authors: Szczechla Magdalena , Balewska Anita , Naskręt Dariusz , Zozulińska-Ziółkiewicz Dorota , Uruska Aleksandra
Published: February 2023

Diabetes mellitus is a significant health problem for medicine and economics. In 80–90% of cases, it is type 2 diabetes (T2DM). An essential aspect for people with T2DM is to control blood glucose levels and avoid significant deviations. Modifiable and non-modifiable factors influence the incidence of hyperglycemia and, sometimes, hypoglycemia. The lifestyle modifiable factors are body mass, smoking, physical activity, and diet. These affect the level of glycemia and impact molecular changes. Molecular changes affect the cell’s primary function, and understanding them will improve our understanding of T2DM. These changes may become a therapeutic target for future therapy of type 2 diabetes, contributing to increasing the effectiveness of treatment. In addition, the influence of external factors (e.g., activity, diet) on each domain of molecular characterization has gained importance towards a better understanding of their role in prevention. In the current review, we aimed to collect scientific reports on the latest research about modifiable factors connected with the style of life which affect the glycemic level in the context of molecular discoveries.
Assessment of Torsional Amplification of Drift Demand in a Building Employing Site-Specific Response Spectra and Accelerograms
Authors: Hu Yao , Khatiwada Prashidha , Lumantarna Elisa , Tsang Hing Ho
Published: February 2023

This paper aims at giving structural designers guidance on how to transform seismic demand on a building structure from two-dimensional (2D) to three-dimensional (3D) in an expedient manner, taking into account amplification of the torsional actions. This paper is to be read in conjunction with either paper #3 or #4. Torsional amplification of the drift demand in a building is of major concern in the structural design for countering seismic actions on the building. Code-based seismic design procedures based on elastic analyses may understate torsional actions in a plan of asymmetric building. This is because the inability of elastic analyses to capture the abrupt increase in the torsional action as the limit of yield of the supporting structural walls is surpassed. Nonlinear dynamic analysis can provide accurate assessment of torsional actions in a building which has been excited to respond in the inelastic range. However, a 3D whole building analysis of a multi-storey building can be costly and challenging, and hence not suited to day-to-day structural design. To simplify the analysis and reduce the scale of the computation, closed-form expressions are introduced in this paper for estimation of the Δ3D/Δ2D drift demand ratio for elastic conditions when buildings are subjected to moderate-intensity ground shaking. The drift demand of the 3D model can be estimated as a product of the 2D drift demand and the Δ3D/Δ2D drift demand ratio. In dealing with higher-intensity ground shaking causing yielding to occur, a macroscopic modelling methodology may be employed. The estimated Δ3D/Δ2D drift demand ratio of an equivalent single-storey building is combined with separate analysis for determination of the 2D drift demand. The deflection profile of the multi-storey prototype taking into account 3D effects, including torsional actions, is hence obtained. The accuracy of the presented methodologies has been verified by case studies in which drift estimates generated by the proposed calculation procedure were compared against results from whole building analyses, employing a well-established computer software.
Corrosion Mechanisms of a Biodegradable Zn-0.4Li Alloy in Simulated Gastrointestinal Environment
Authors: Wang Manli , Yang Lingbo , Zhu Xinglong , Yang Lijing , Shen Jianwei , Lu Ting , Liu Huinan , Song Zhenlun
Published: February 2023

Zn-Li alloys have been demonstrated to be potential biodegradable materials because of their favorable biocompatibility and exceptional strength. The corrosion behaviors of Zn–0.4Li in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) and simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) were investigated. Compared with samples in SIF, those in SGF were severely corroded locally. Pepsin and pancreatin participated in the formation of degradation products. After immersion in SGF and SIF, the corrosion process presented two interfaces. Lithium (Li) preferentially reacted in the near-surface region to form a Li-rich region. Simultaneously, there were two Li-poor regions around the Li-rich region. Then Zn-rich products gradually became dominant with time. Li+ releasement dominated over Zn2+ releasement throughout the immersion process in SGF and SIF. These results can guide the development of biodegradable gastrointestinal anastomotic nails in the future.
Price Dynamics and Integration in India’s Staple Food Commodities—Evidence from Wholesale and Retail Rice and Wheat Markets
Authors: Sendhil Ramadas , Arora Kashish , Kumar Sunny , Lal Priyanka , Roy Arnab , Varadan Ramalingam Jayakumara , Vedi Sivasankar , Pouchepparadjou Anandan
Published: February 2023

Uncertain price movement in staple food commodities puts agrarian economies at risk if not monitored and managed consistently. Hence, an attempt has been made to analyze the price behavior and integration across major wholesale and retail markets for rice and wheat in India. Monthly data (July 2000 to June 2022) on prices viz. wholesale and retail were sourced from the Food and Agriculture Organization and analyzed using growth rate, instability index, seasonal price index, Bai-Perron’s test for structural breaks, Johansen’s test on cointegration, Granger causality test, and impulse response function. Findings indicated strong evidence of price dynamics in the selected markets in terms of spatial and temporal variation, clear-cut seasonality linking to production, and price divergence between wholesale and retail markets. Johansen’s test indicated a strong cointegration between wholesale and retail prices after accounting for structural breaks, exhibiting unidirectional-, bidirectional- and no causality. Impulse response analysis revealed that the selected wheat and rice markets are efficient in terms of ‘price discovery’ which takes place initially in the wholesale market, and is then transmitted to the retail market. The study advocates decision-making information to the producers, traders, and consumers who are interested in taking advantage of the price movement. It is concluded that strengthening the market intelligence and reducing the distortion in markets will improve the existing overall performance.
Natural Polymers and Cosmeceuticals for a Healthy and Circular Life: The Examples of Chitin, Chitosan, and Lignin
Authors: Morganti Pierfrancesco , Morganti Gianluca , Coltelli Maria-Beatrice
Published: February 2023

The present review considers the design and introduction of new cosmeceuticals in the market, based on natural polymers and active molecules extracted from biomass, in a biomimetic strategy, starting with a consideration of the biochemical mechanisms, followed by natural precision biopolymer production. After introducing the contest of nanobiotechnology in relationship with its applicability for skin contact products and classifying the currently available sustainable polymers, some widely selected abundant biopolymers (chitin, chitosan, and lignin), showing specific functionalities (anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, etc.), are described, especially considering the possibility to combine them in nanostructured tissues, powders, and coatings for producing new cosmeceuticals, but with potentialities in other sectors, such as biomedical, personal care, and packaging sectors. After observing the general increase in market wellness and beauty forecasts over the next few years, parallelisms between nano and macro scales have suggested that nanobiotechnology application expresses the necessity to follow a better way of producing, selecting, and consuming goods that will help to transform the actual linear economy in a circular economy, based on redesigning, reducing, recycling, and reusing.
Study on the Depth and Evolution of Keyholes in Plasma-MIG Hybrid Welding
Authors: Miao Xinglin , Zhang Hongtao , Cao Wenhuan , He Zhenyu , Wang Bo , Ge Fuchen , Gao Jianguo
Published: February 2023

Keyholes are very important to the Plasma-MIG hybrid welding process, weld formation, and quality. With the purpose of studying the effect of the main welding parameters (plasma current, MIG current, magnetic field intensity, and welding velocity) on keyhole depth and the interaction among parameter factors, the experiment was designed by the response surface method. In addition, the prediction model with keyhole depth as the response value was obtained. The model shows the important degree of influence of each factor on keyhole depth. It shows that there is an obvious interaction between plasma current and MIG current, while there is no obvious correlation between other parameters. The temperature field of the Plasma-MIG welding process under certain parameters was obtained by using Fluent software for numerical simulation, and the evolution behavior of the keyhole was analyzed. Based on the simulation results, the metal flow mode and the movement mechanism of the keyhole are described.
ZnO and ZnO-Based Materials as Active Layer in Resistive Random-Access Memory (RRAM)
Authors: Nowak Ewelina , Chłopocka Edyta , Szybowicz Mirosław
Published: February 2023

In this paper, an overview of the influence of various modifications on ZnO-based RRAM has been conducted. Firstly, the motivation for creating new memory technology is presented. The resistive switching mechanism is explained, including its response to the selection of active layers and electrodes. A comparison of ZnO devices assembled via different deposition methods is made. Additional treatment of the active layer and electrodes improving the performance are reported. This work gives an overview of the influence of different dopants on the characteristics of the device. The manuscript overviews the previous investigation of inclusion of inserting layers and nanostructures into ZnO-based RRAM.
BN Diamane-like Quasicrystal Based on 30° Twisted H-BN Bilayers and Its Approximants: Features of the Atomic Structure and Electronic Properties
Authors: Chernozatonskii Leonid A. , Kochaev Aleksey I.
Published: February 2023

The dodecagonal graphene quasicrystal (GQC) based on a 30° twisted bigraphene has been well investigated. Recently, the sp3-hybridizated carbon analog, the diamane quasicrystal as a H(F) functionalized GQC was proposed. Here we present a study of a similar sp3-hybridizated boron nitride 3-fold symmetry piezoelectric quasicrystal (BNnQC) based on a 30° twisted hexagonal BN bilayer (BNQC). The analysis of the atomic and electronic structures of its approximants based on 29.4° and 27.8° twisted h-BN bilayers has been carried by using of the density functional theory (DFT). The calculated values of the energy gaps ∼5 eV classify this predicted boron nitride material as a new wide-gap 2D quasicrystal.
Problems in Threatened Species Conservation: Differences in National Red Lists Assessments with Global Standards
Authors: Brodsky Andrei , Abakumov Evgeny , Kirillova Iuliia
Published: February 2023

The solution of transnational environmental problems in the field of the protection of threatened species and conservation biology directly depends on the level of international communication, which can significantly decrease due to differences in Red Lists and Red Data Books of different levels. In order to identify the similarities and differences in approaches to the assessment of national Red Lists and Books of the Baltic Sea region countries (Russia, Denmark, Germany, Lithuania, Finland, Poland and Sweden) with the IUCN Red List, a comparative analysis was carried out. It was determined that the level of discrepancy between Red Data Lists and Books varies considerably, with differences in the scales of species categories, species lists and categories. Most of the threatened species at the national level are not listed under the IUCN Red List, while species in a more stringent category at the national level prevail (37% and 3% on average, respectively). However, national Red Lists and Red Data Books do not take into account the global trend of the risk of extinction of species. The percentage of species with insufficient information to define a category at the national or global level ranges from 6% to 28%. These discrepancies make it difficult to exchange data on threatened species and create a unified database with information on protected species at different levels and, therefore, reduce the effectiveness of biodiversity conservation activities at regional and international levels. The results also demonstrate that countries have an international responsibility to conserve a species, and the cases identified can provide useful additional information to guide a national conservation strategy.
Microcrustaceans (Cladocera and Copepoda) of the Boreal/Tropical Transition Zone in the Russian Far East: A Case Study of Species Associations in Three Large Lakes
Authors: Chertoptud Elena S. , Seleznev Dmitry G. , Garibian Petr G. , Kotov Alexey A.
Published: February 2023

The Far East of Russia is a region where boreal and tropical faunas mix; it is also a zone of cladoceran endemism. The present study aimed to compare a set of microcrustacean (Cladocera and Copepoda) associations in three large lakes of the Russian Far East: Khanka, Bolon, and Chukchagir. The associations of the microcrustaceans were identified based on the function of the discrete hypergeometric distribution. Many of the 108 taxa found here were unaffiliated with an association. Interestingly, the portion of taxa involved and “not involved” in species associations differed among geographic faunistic complexes. The rate of endemism was significantly higher among the taxa incorporated into the associations as compared to the “not involved” taxa. In all the lakes, there were large clusters of phytophilous species characteristic of the macrophyte zone (and its margins) and clusters characteristic of pelagic and sublittoral plankton. We found that in the three lakes, the microcrustaceans formed a set of functionally similar associations, but the taxonomic composition of each functional association was specific to each lake. We hypothesize that the composition of functional clusters reflects the history of colonization for each water body. That is, the founder effects and subsequent “monopolization” of habitats have affected species associations.
Freshwater Landscape Reconstruction from the Bronze Age Site of Borsodivánka (North-Eastern Hungary)
Authors: Blanco-Lapaz Angel , Fischl Klára P. , Röpke Astrid , Zerl Tanja , Nolde Nadine , Schmid Michael , Kienlin Tobias L.
Published: February 2023

This multiproxy work presents the archeozoological analysis of fish and microvertebrate remains from the Middle Bronze Age tell site of Borsodivánka (Borsod Plain, North-eastern Hungary). The fish faunal assemblage provides valuable data on the choice of exploited consumption patterns, taphonomy, and aquatic paleoenvironmental conditions at the site during the Bronze Age. Only freshwater taxa are present in the assemblage, for example, northern pike (Esox lucius); cyprinids: roach (Rutilus rutilus), common carp (Cyprinus carpio), common chub (Squalius cephalus) and common nase (Chondrostoma nasus); and percids: European perch (Perca fluviatilis) and pikeperch (Sander lucioperca). Herpetofaunal and micromammal remains are also part of this study, improving our knowledge of the site’s freshwater ecosystem. The grass snake (Natrix cf. natrix) and the European pond terrapin (Emys orbicularis), typical of aquatic ecosystems, are associated with the Aesculapian ratsnake (Zamenis longissimus), more typical of forest, shrubland, and grassland. The presence of amphibians such as toads (Bufo/Bufotes sp.) and frogs (Rana sp.) complete the herpetofaunal list. The microvertebrates also support a mature fluvial system, as represented by taxa like the European water vole (Arvicola amphibius). Other micromammals are present, such as the wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus), the group of the common/field vole (Microtus arvalis/agrestis), the European mole (Talpa europaea), and the house mouse (Mus musculus). All of them are common in forests, shrubland, and grassland. However, the commensal house mouse is more commonly associated with anthropogenic areas. In conclusion, Borsodivánka is characterized by a diverse landscape mosaic, displayed by the co-existence of a well-developed forest and a freshwater inland ecosystem with agricultural land in the wider area. Finally, the Tisza River and its flood plain represented the main water source close to the site, distinguished by the dominance of fish species from deep and slow-flowing waters.
Deep Learning Algorithms for Screening and Diagnosis of Systemic Diseases Based on Ophthalmic Manifestations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Iao Wai Cheng , Zhang Weixing , Wang Xun , Wu Yuxuan , Lin Duoru , Lin Haotian
Published: February 2023

Deep learning (DL) is the new high-profile technology in medical artificial intelligence (AI) for building screening and diagnosing algorithms for various diseases. The eye provides a window for observing neurovascular pathophysiological changes. Previous studies have proposed that ocular manifestations indicate systemic conditions, revealing a new route in disease screening and management. There have been multiple DL models developed for identifying systemic diseases based on ocular data. However, the methods and results varied immensely across studies. This systematic review aims to summarize the existing studies and provide an overview of the present and future aspects of DL-based algorithms for screening systemic diseases based on ophthalmic examinations. We performed a thorough search in PubMed®, Embase, and Web of Science for English-language articles published until August 2022. Among the 2873 articles collected, 62 were included for analysis and quality assessment. The selected studies mainly utilized eye appearance, retinal data, and eye movements as model input and covered a wide range of systemic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and systemic health features. Despite the decent performance reported, most models lack disease specificity and public generalizability for real-world application. This review concludes the pros and cons and discusses the prospect of implementing AI based on ocular data in real-world clinical scenarios.
Exploring an Association between Body Mass Index and Oral Health—A Scoping Review
Authors: Issrani Rakhi , Reddy Jagat , Bader Alzarea K. , Albalawi Raghad Fayez H. , Alserhani Ebtehal Dhyab M. , Alruwaili Danah Sultan R. , Alanazi Gharam Radhi A. , Alruwaili Naif Sultan R. , Sghaireen Mohammed Ghazi , Rao Krishna
Published: February 2023

Background: Basal metabolic index (BMI) is a unique anthropometric indicator used to define the relative amount of body fat on an individual’s frame. There are many diseases and conditions associated with obesity and underweight. Recent research trials suggest that there is a significant association between oral health indicators and BMI as both are attributed to common risk factors such as dietary, genetic, socioeconomic, and lifestyle issues. Objectives: The main objective of this review paper is to emphasize the association between BMI and oral health with available literature evidence. Methodology: A literature search was conducted using multiple databases comprising of MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, and Web of Science. The terms used for the search were “body mass index”, “periodontitis”, “dental caries”, and “tooth loss”. Results: In total, 2839 articles were obtained from the analysis of the databases. Unrelated articles from the available full text of 1135 articles were excluded. The main reasons for excluding the articles were: they were dietary guidelines and policy statements. A total of 66 studies were finally included in the review. Conclusion: The presence of dental caries, periodontitis and tooth loss may be associated with a higher BMI or obesity, whereas, improved oral health might be associated with lower BMI. Promoting general and oral health should be a hand in hand feature, as common risk factors can be embattled.
A Comparative Analysis of Treatment-Related Changes in the Diagnostic Biomarker Active Metalloproteinase-8 Levels in Patients with Periodontitis
Authors: Keskin Mutlu , Rintamarttunen Juulia , Gülçiçek Emre , Räisänen Ismo T. , Gupta Shipra , Tervahartiala Taina , Pätilä Tommi , Sorsa Timo
Published: February 2023

Background: Previous studies have revealed the potential diagnostic utility of aMMP-8, an active form of MMP-8, in periodontal and peri-implant diseases. While non-invasive point-of-care (PoC) chairside aMMP-8 tests have shown promise in this regard, there is a dearth of literature on the evaluation of treatment response using these tests. The present study aimed to investigate treatment-related changes in aMMP-8 levels in individuals with Stage III/IV—Grade C periodontitis compared to a healthy control group, using a quantitative chairside PoC aMMP-8 test, and to determine its correlation with clinical parameters. Methods: The study included 27 adult patients (13 smoker, 14 non-smoker) with stage III/IV-grade C periodontitis and 25 healthy adult subjects. Clinical periodontal measurements, real-time PoC aMMP-8, IFMA aMMP-8, and Western immunoblot analyses were performed before and 1 month after anti-infective scaling and root planing periodontal treatment. Time 0 measurements were taken from the healthy control group to test the consistency of the diagnostic test. Results: Both PoC aMMP-8 and IFMA aMMP-8 tests showed a statistically significant decrease in aMMP-8 levels and improvement in periodontal clinical parameters following treatment (p < 0.05). The PoC aMMP-8 test had high diagnostic sensitivity (85.2%) and specificity (100.0%) for periodontitis and was not affected by smoking (p > 0.05). Treatment also reduced MMP-8 immunoreactivity and activation as demonstrated by Western immunoblot analysis. Conclusion: The PoC aMMP-8 test shows promise as a useful tool for the real-time diagnosis and monitoring of periodontal therapy.
Association between Handgrip Strength, Skinfold Thickness, and Trunk Strength among University Students
Authors: Dixit Snehil , Gular Kumar , Gautam Ajay Prashad , Reddy Ravi Shankar , Ahmad Irshad , Tedla Jaya Shanker , Taneja Vani
Published: February 2023

Objectives: The main goal was to explore the relationship between hand grip strength (HGS), the thickness of the skinfold at multiple sites, and the trunk flexor (TF) and extensor (TE) muscle strength among healthy participants. Methods: We employed a cross-sectional design and randomly recruited 40 participants. Ultimately, only 39 participants were included. First, measurements for demographic and anthropometric variables were carried out. After that, the evaluation of hand grip strength and skinfold was performed. Data Analysis: Descriptive statistics were used to explore the amount of interaction between the smoking and nonsmoking groups, and a repeated measures analysis of variance was employed. Furthermore, associations between dependent and independent variables were discovered through a multiple linear regression model. Results: The participants had a mean age of 21.59 ± 1.19 years. The results of the repeated measures analysis of variance validated an acceptable interaction between the trunk and hand grip strength at a significance level of p < 0.01, further emphasized by their moderate association (p < 0.05). Multiple regressions between TE, TF, the independent variables T score, height, and age were also significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The trunk muscle strength can be used as a health indicator for comprehensive evaluation. The present study also found a moderate relationship between hand grip strength, trunk strength, and T score.
The Role of Serum Anti-Mullerian Hormone Measurement in the Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Sivanandy Mala S. , Ha Sierra K.
Published: February 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrinological disorder in women with significant reproductive, metabolic, and psychological health implications. The lack of a specific diagnostic test poses challenges in making the diagnosis of PCOS, resulting in underdiagnosis and undertreatment. Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) synthesized by the pre-antral and small antral ovarian follicles appears to play an important role in the pathophysiology of PCOS, and serum AMH levels are often elevated in women with PCOS. The aim of this review is to inform the possibility of utilizing anti-Mullerian hormone either as a diagnostic test for PCOS or as an alternative diagnostic criterion in place of polycystic ovarian morphology, hyperandrogenism, and oligo-anovulation. Increased levels of serum AMH correlate highly with PCOS, polycystic ovarian morphology, hyperandrogenism, and oligo/amenorrhea. Additionally, serum AMH has high diagnostic accuracy as an isolated marker for PCOS or as a replacement for polycystic ovarian morphology.
Asymptomatic Aortic Stenosis in an Older Patient: How the Geriatric Approach Can Make a Difference
Authors: Finazzi Alberto , Bruni Adriana Antonella , Nistri Stefano , Bellelli Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

We present a case report of an older patient with aortic stenosis who was managed before and after transcatheter aortic valve implantation by a team of cardiologists but without the support of a geriatrician. We first describe the patient’s post-interventional complications from a geriatric perspective and afterwards, discuss the unique approach that the geriatrician would have provided. This case report was written by a group of geriatricians working in an acute hospital, along with a clinical cardiologist who is an expert in aortic stenosis. We discuss the implications for modifying conventional practice in tandem with existing literature.
Prediction of the Topography of the Corticospinal Tract on T1-Weighted MR Images Using Deep-Learning-Based Segmentation
Authors: Barany Laszlo , Hore Nirjhar , Stadlbauer Andreas , Buchfelder Michael , Brandner Sebastian
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Tractography is an invaluable tool in the planning of tumor surgery in the vicinity of functionally eloquent areas of the brain as well as in the research of normal development or of various diseases. The aim of our study was to compare the performance of a deep-learning-based image segmentation for the prediction of the topography of white matter tracts on T1-weighted MR images to the performance of a manual segmentation. Methods: T1-weighted MR images of 190 healthy subjects from 6 different datasets were utilized in this study. Using deterministic diffusion tensor imaging, we first reconstructed the corticospinal tract on both sides. After training a segmentation model on 90 subjects of the PIOP2 dataset using the nnU-Net in a cloud-based environment with graphical processing unit (Google Colab), we evaluated its performance using 100 subjects from 6 different datasets. Results: Our algorithm created a segmentation model that predicted the topography of the corticospinal pathway on T1-weighted images in healthy subjects. The average dice score was 0.5479 (0.3513–0.7184) on the validation dataset. Conclusions: Deep-learning-based segmentation could be applicable in the future to predict the location of white matter pathways in T1-weighted scans.
A Collaborative Learning Model for Skin Lesion Segmentation and Classification
Authors: Wang Ying , Su Jie , Xu Qiuyu , Zhong Yixin
Published: February 2023

The automatic segmentation and classification of skin lesions are two essential tasks in computer-aided skin cancer diagnosis. Segmentation aims to detect the location and boundary of the skin lesion area, while classification is used to evaluate the type of skin lesion. The location and contour information of lesions provided by segmentation is essential for the classification of skin lesions, while the skin disease classification helps generate target localization maps to assist the segmentation task. Although the segmentation and classification are studied independently in most cases, we find meaningful information can be explored using the correlation of dermatological segmentation and classification tasks, especially when the sample data are insufficient. In this paper, we propose a collaborative learning deep convolutional neural networks (CL-DCNN) model based on the teacher–student learning method for dermatological segmentation and classification. To generate high-quality pseudo-labels, we provide a self-training method. The segmentation network is selectively retrained through classification network screening pseudo-labels. Specially, we obtain high-quality pseudo-labels for the segmentation network by providing a reliability measure method. We also employ class activation maps to improve the location ability of the segmentation network. Furthermore, we provide the lesion contour information by using the lesion segmentation masks to improve the recognition ability of the classification network. Experiments are carried on the ISIC 2017 and ISIC Archive datasets. The CL-DCNN model achieved a Jaccard of 79.1% on the skin lesion segmentation task and an average AUC of 93.7% on the skin disease classification task, which is superior to the advanced skin lesion segmentation methods and classification methods.
Association of Masticatory Efficiency and Reduced Number of Antagonistic Contacts Due to Extraction, Changing Dentition or Malocclusion in Children
Authors: Cicvaric Odri , Grzic Renata , Simunovic Erpusina Marija , Simonic-Kocijan Suncana , Bakarcic Danko , Ivancic Jokic Natasa
Published: February 2023

Background: Tooth extraction, changing dentition and malocclusion can decrease area of occlusal contact and negatively affect masticatory efficiency. Aim of this study was to evaluate difference in masticatory efficiency in association with previously named factors. Materials and methods: In this cross-sectional study masticatory efficiency parameters (number of particles, mean diameter and mean surface of particles) determined with optical scanning method were compared between children with healthy dentition (12 girls, 12 boys, age 3 to 14) and children with lost antagonistic contacts due to tooth extraction, changing dentition and malocclusions (12 girls, 12 boys, age 3 to 14). Results: Number of chewed particles is significantly higher in a group of children with healthy dentition (p < 0.001), and chewed particles’ mean diameter and surface are significantly higher in the Group 2 (p < 0.001; p < 0.001). Number of lost occlusal contacts is not in correlation with masticatory efficiency parameters (p= 0.464; p= 0.483; p= 0.489). Conclusions: Children with lost antagonistic contacts have an impaired masticatory efficiency in comparison to children with complete dentition, but there is no difference regarding the aetiology of contact loss.
A Survey of Farmland Boundary Extraction Technology Based on Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Wang Xuying , Shu Lei , Han Ru , Yang Fan , Gordon Timothy , Wang Xiaochan , Xu Hongyu
Published: February 2023

Farmland boundary information plays a key role in agricultural remote sensing, and it is of importance to modern agriculture. We collected the relevant research in this field at home and abroad in this review, and we systematically assessed the farmland boundary extraction process, detection algorithms, and influencing factors. In this paper, we first discuss the five parts of the assessment: (1) image acquisition; (2) preprocessing; (3) detection algorithms; (4) postprocessing; (5) the evaluation of the boundary information extraction process. Second, we discuss recognition algorithms. Third, we discuss various detection algorithms. The detection algorithms can be divided into four types: (1) low-level feature extraction algorithms, which only consider the boundary features; (2) high-level feature extraction algorithms, which consider boundary information and other image information simultaneously; (3) visual hierarchy extraction algorithms, which simulate biological vision systems; (4) boundary object extraction algorithms, which recognize boundary object extraction ideas. We can subdivide each type of algorithm into several algorithm subclasses. Fourth, we discuss the technical factors and natural factors that affect boundary extraction. Finally, we summarize the development history of this field, and we analyze the problems that exist, such as the lack of algorithms that can be adapted to higher-resolution images, the lack of algorithms with good practical ability, and the lack of a unified and effective evaluation index system.
Hyperspectral Image Classification with Deep CNN Using an Enhanced Elephant Herding Optimization for Updating Hyper-Parameters
Authors: Munishamaiaha Kavitha , Kannan Senthil Kumar , Venkatesan DhilipKumar , Jasiński Michał , Novak Filip , Gono Radomir , Leonowicz Zbigniew
Published: February 2023

Deep learning approaches based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have recently achieved success in computer vision, demonstrating significant superiority in the domain of image processing. For hyperspectral image (HSI) classification, convolutional neural networks are an efficient option. Hyperspectral image classification approaches are often based on spectral information. Convolutional neural networks are used for image classification in order to achieve greater performance. The complex computation in convolutional neural networks requires hyper-parameters that attain high accuracy outputs, and this process needs more computational time and effort. Following up on the proposed technique, a bio-inspired metaheuristic strategy based on an enhanced form of elephant herding optimization is proposed in this research paper. It allows one to automatically search for and target the suitable values of convolutional neural network hyper-parameters. To design an automatic system for hyperspectral image classification, the enhanced elephant herding optimization (EEHO) with the AdaBound optimizer is implemented for the tuning and updating of the hyper-parameters of convolutional neural networks (CNN–EEHO–AdaBound). The validation of the convolutional network hyper-parameters should produce a highly accurate response of high-accuracy outputs in order to achieve high-level accuracy in HSI classification, and this process takes a significant amount of processing time. The experiments are carried out on benchmark datasets (Indian Pines and Salinas) for evaluation. The proposed methodology outperforms state-of-the-art methods in a performance comparative analysis, with the findings proving its effectiveness. The results show the improved accuracy of HSI classification by optimising and tuning the hyper-parameters.
Induced Pre-Saturation Tower: A Technological Innovation for Oily Water Treatment in Semi-Industrial Scale
Authors: dos Santos Leonardo Bandeira , da Silva Rita de Cássia Freire Soares , Pedrosa Leonildo Pereira , Baldo Rodrigo Dias , Benachour Mohand , Converti Attilio , Sarubbo Leonie Asfora , dos Santos Valdemir Alexandre
Published: February 2023

In this work, an induced pre-saturation tower (IPST) for oil–water separation was built on a semi-industrial scale, based on experimental results obtained on a laboratory scale prototype. The main strategy for generating these criteria was to increase the efficiency of the bench scale prototype, which is limited by conditions of low levels of automation and control, with the use of a biosurfactant as an auxiliary collector. The validation of the developed criteria allowed the construction of an IPST with three stages, all fed with previously saturated effluents. The IPST was built in stainless steel, with multistage centrifugal pumps and adapted to generate microbubbles without the use of saturation tanks or compressors. The most relevant operational parameters were selected using a fractional factorial design, while a central composite rotatable design (CCRD) followed by the application of the desirability function allowed to optimize the conditions for partial and global variables, the latter with desirability of 95%. A nominal flow rate of approximately 1000 L·h−1, a recycle flow rate of 450 L·h−1, a scraper rotation speed of 80 rpm, an average pressure of the microbubble pumps of 11 bar, and an effluent temperature from IPST of about 38 °C ensured optimized operation for the proposed technological development.