bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Function and Characteristic Analysis of Candidate PEAR Proteins in Populus yunnanensis
Authors: Li Ping , Wang Jing , Jiang Derui , Yu Anmin , Sun Rui , Liu Aizhong
Published: August 2023

PEAR proteins are a type of plant-specific DNA binding with one finger (Dof) transcription factors that play a key role in the regulation of plant growth, especially during phloem cell growth and seed germination in Arabidopsis. However, the identification, characteristics and function of PEAR proteins, particularly in woody plants, need to be further studied. In the present study, 43 candidate PEAR proteins harboring the conserved Zf-Dof domain were obtained in Populus yunnanensis. Based on phylogenetic and structural analysis, 10 representative PEAR candidates were selected, belonging to different phylogenetic groups. The functions of PEAR proteins in the stress response, signal transduction, and growth regulation of stem cambium and roots undergoing vigorous cell division in Arabidopsis were revealed based on their expression patterns as characterized by qRT-PCR analysis, in accordance with the results of cis-element analysis. In vitro experiments showed that the interaction of transcription factor (E2F) and cyclin indirectly reflects the growth regulation function of PEAR through light signaling and cell-cycle regulation. Therefore, our results provide new insight into the identity of PEAR proteins and their function in stress resistance and vigorous cell division regulation of tissues in P. yunnanensis, which may serve as a basis for further investigation of the functions and characteristics of PEAR proteins in other plants.
Anionic Phospholipids Stimulate the Proton Pumping Activity of the Plant Plasma Membrane P-Type H+-ATPase
Authors: Paweletz Laura C. , Holtbrügge Simon L. , Löb Malina , De Vecchis Dario , Schäfer Lars V. , Günther Pomorski Thomas , Justesen Bo Højen
Published: August 2023

The activity of membrane proteins depends strongly on the surrounding lipid environment. Here, we characterize the lipid stimulation of the plant plasma membrane H+-ATPase Arabidopsis thaliana H+-ATPase isoform 2 (AHA2) upon purification and reconstitution into liposomes of defined lipid compositions. We show that the proton pumping activity of AHA2 is stimulated by anionic phospholipids, especially by phosphatidylserine. This activation was independent of the cytoplasmic C-terminal regulatory domain of the pump. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed several preferential contact sites for anionic phospholipids in the transmembrane domain of AHA2. These contact sites are partially conserved in functionally different P-type ATPases from different organisms, suggesting a general regulation mechanism by the membrane lipid environment. Our findings highlight the fact that anionic lipids play an important role in the control of H+-ATPase activity.
Prognostic and Predictive Utility of GPD1L in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Leung Philip K. H. , Das Bibek , Cheng Xiaoyu , Tarazi Munir
Published: August 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. GPD1L, a member of the glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase family, has emerged as a potential tumour suppressor gene, with high expression associated with a favourable prognosis in various cancers. Despite an intriguing inverse relationship observed with HCC, the precise role and underlying function of GPD1L in HCC remain poorly understood. Here, we aimed to investigate the prognostic significance, molecular characteristics, and predictive potential of GPD1L overexpression in HCC. Analysis of independent datasets revealed a significant correlation between high GPD1L expression and poor survival in HCC patients. Spatial and single cell transcriptome datasets confirmed elevated GDP1L expression in tumour tissue compared to adjacent normal tissue. GPD1L exhibited increased expression and promoter demethylation with advancing tumour stage, confirming positive selection during tumorigeneses. GPD1L overexpression was associated with metabolic dysregulation and enrichment of gene sets related to cell cycle control, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and E2F targets. Moreover, we demonstrated an inverse correlation between GPD1L expression and therapeutic response for three therapeutic agents (PF-562271, Linsitinib, and BMS-754807), highlighting its potential as a predictive biomarker for HCC treatment outcomes. These data provide insights into the prognostic significance, molecular characteristics, and predictive potential of GPD1L in HCC.
A Common Molecular Signature Indicates the Pre-Meristematic State of Plant Calli
Authors: Fehér Attila
Published: August 2023

In response to different degrees of mechanical injury, certain plant cells re-enter the division cycle to provide cells for tissue replenishment, tissue rejoining, de novo organ formation, and/or wound healing. The intermediate tissue formed by the dividing cells is called a callus. Callus formation can also be induced artificially in vitro by wounding and/or hormone (auxin and cytokinin) treatments. The callus tissue can be maintained in culture, providing starting material for de novo organ or embryo regeneration and thus serving as the basis for many plant biotechnology applications. Due to the biotechnological importance of callus cultures and the scientific interest in the developmental flexibility of somatic plant cells, the initial molecular steps of callus formation have been studied in detail. It was revealed that callus initiation can follow various ways, depending on the organ from which it develops and the inducer, but they converge on a seemingly identical tissue. It is not known, however, if callus is indeed a special tissue with a defined gene expression signature, whether it is a malformed meristem, or a mass of so-called “undifferentiated” cells, as is mostly believed. In this paper, I review the various mechanisms of plant regeneration that may converge on callus initiation. I discuss the role of plant hormones in the detour of callus formation from normal development. Finally, I compare various Arabidopsis gene expression datasets obtained a few days, two weeks, or several years after callus induction and identify 21 genes, including genes of key transcription factors controlling cell division and differentiation in meristematic regions, which were upregulated in all investigated callus samples. I summarize the information available on all 21 genes that point to the pre-meristematic nature of callus tissues underlying their wide regeneration potential.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in PCOS: Insights into Reproductive Organ Pathophysiology
Authors: Siemers Kyle M. , Klein Abigail K. , Baack Michelle L.
Published: August 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex, but relatively common endocrine disorder associated with chronic anovulation, hyperandrogenism, and micro-polycystic ovaries. In addition to reduced fertility, people with PCOS have a higher risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic disease, all comorbidities that are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. This review summarizes human and animal data that report mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic dysregulation in PCOS to better understand how mitochondria impact reproductive organ pathophysiology. This in-depth review considers all the elements regulating mitochondrial quantity and quality, from mitochondrial biogenesis under the transcriptional regulation of both the nuclear and mitochondrial genome to the ultrastructural and functional complexes that regulate cellular metabolism and reactive oxygen species production, as well as the dynamics that regulate subcellular interactions that are key to mitochondrial quality control. When any of these mitochondrial functions are disrupted, the energetic equilibrium within the cell changes, cell processes can fail, and cell death can occur. If this process is ongoing, it affects tissue and organ function, causing disease. The objective of this review is to consolidate and classify a broad number of PCOS studies to understand how various mitochondrial processes impact reproductive organs, including the ovary (oocytes and granulosa cells), uterus, placenta, and circulation, causing reproductive pathophysiology. A secondary objective is to uncover the potential role of mitochondria in the transgenerational transmission of PCOS and metabolic disorders.
Revisiting the Taxonomy of Cylapocoris Carvalho, 1954 (Hemiptera: Miridae: Cylapinae) with Descriptions of Five New Species and Morphology-Based Phylogenetic Analysis of the Genus
Authors: Wolski Andrzej , Masłowski Adrian , Taszakowski Artur
Published: August 2023

This paper provides descriptions of five new species of the Neotropical genus Cylapocoris Carvalho, 1954 (C. bimaculatus n. sp., C. brooksi n. sp., C. carvalhoi n. sp., C. scutellatus n. sp., and C. simplexoides n. sp.). Cylapocoris and Cylapocoroides Carvalho, 1989 are redescribed and rediagnosed. Illustrations of male genitalia, scanning electron micrographs of selected structures of certain taxa, and an identification key to species are provided. Female genitalia are described and illustrated for the first time for Cylapocoris in nine out of 19 known species. A cladistic analysis of the genus, based on 62 morphological characters, is presented as a contribution to the understanding of relationships within Cylapocoris and its relationships with other groups of Cylapinae. The analysis comprises 16 ingroup species and 15 outgroup taxa. Both equal and implied weighting parsimony analyses were used in the phylogenetic reconstruction. We confirm the monophyly of Cylapocoris and its sister-group relationship with Cylapocoroides. Additionally, we identify subgroupings within Cylapocoris. Intertribal relationships within Cylapinae are briefly discussed.
How Biodiversity, Climate and Landscape Drive Functional Redundancy of British Butterflies
Authors: Lazarina Maria , Michailidou Danai-Eleni , Tsianou Mariana , Kallimanis Athanasios S.
Published: August 2023

Biodiversity promotes the functioning of ecosystems, and functional redundancy safeguards this functioning against environmental changes. However, what drives functional redundancy remains unclear. We analyzed taxonomic diversity, functional diversity (richness and β-diversity) and functional redundancy patterns of British butterflies. We explored the effect of temperature and landscape-related variables on richness and redundancy using generalized additive models, and on β-diversity using generalized dissimilarity models. The species richness-functional richness relationship was saturating, indicating functional redundancy in species-rich communities. Assemblages did not deviate from random expectations regarding functional richness. Temperature exerted a significant effect on all diversity aspects and on redundancy, with the latter relationship being unimodal. Landscape-related variables played a role in driving observed patterns. Although taxonomic and functional β-diversity were highly congruent, the model of taxonomic β-diversity explained more deviance than the model of functional β-diversity did. Species-rich butterfly assemblages exhibited functional redundancy. Climate- and landscape-related variables emerged as significant drivers of diversity and redundancy. Τaxonomic β-diversity was more strongly associated with the environmental gradient, while functional β-diversity was driven more strongly by stochasticity. Temperature promoted species richness and β-diversity, but warmer areas exhibited lower levels of functional redundancy. This might be related to the land uses prevailing in warmer areas (e.g., agricultural intensification).
Vision-Related Quality of Life in Danish Patients with Albinism and the Impact of an Updated Optical Rehabilitation
Authors: Lisbjerg Kristian , Jordana Joaquim Torner , Brandt Vibeke N. , Kjølholm Christine , Kessel Line
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: Albinism is characterized by a lack of pigment in eyes, hair, and skin and developmental changes in the eye such as foveal hypoplasia. Patients require optical rehabilitation due to low vision, refractive errors, and photosensitivity. We aimed to assess vision-related quality of life in patients with albinism and to evaluate how this was affected by optical rehabilitation. (2) Methods: Patients with ocular or oculocutaneous albinism were invited for the study. Free-of-charge optical rehabilitation was provided as needed, including filters, glasses for near or distance, contact lenses, magnifiers or binoculars. Vision-related quality of life was assessed prior to and after optical rehabilitation using the visual function questionnaire (VFQ39) and the effect of optical rehabilitation was evaluated after accounting for age, gender, and visual acuity. (3) Results: Seventy-eight patients filled out the VFQ39 at the initial visit. Fifty patients (64.1%) returned the questionnaire 3–6 months after optical rehabilitation. The mean age of included patients was 35.9 years (standard deviation 16.6), and their best corrected distance visual acuity was 56 ETDRS letters (range 3–81). The VFQ39 composite score improved significantly from a median of 62.5 (range 14.2–77.0) to 76.5 (20.6–99.6). Significant improvements were seen for ocular pain, social functioning, mental health, role difficulties, and dependency, whereas self-assessed distance or near visual functions did not change. (4) Conclusions: Optical rehabilitation improved the self-reported vision-related quality of life in Danish patients with albinism on a number of parameters related to leading an independent and worry-free life, whereas visual improvement for distance and near tasks was likely limited by the nature of the disease and by the fact that most patients already had access to some optical aids prior to the study.
The Effects of Extracorporeal Magnetic Innervation in the Treatment of Women with Urinary Incontinence: A Systematic Review
Authors: Strojek Katarzyna , Strączyńska Agnieszka , Radzimińska Agnieszka , Weber-Rajek Magdalena
Published: August 2023

Purpose: The aim of this study is to identify and critically evaluate literature regarding the clinical efficacy of extracorporeal magnetic innervation (ExMI) in the treatment of female patients with urinary incontinence (UI). Methods: An analysis was carried out using the following electronic databases: Medline, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and the Cochrane Library (data published between 2008 and 2023). Searches of the above databases were conducted in April 2023. Only randomized clinical studies (RCTs) in English studies were eligible for the study. Randomized controlled trials were included in the review and evaluated with the Downs and Black checklist. Results: Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Among these, two studies examined the use of ExMI and PMFT (pelvic floor muscle training) and three studies compared active ExMI versus sham ExMI. Four studies evaluated solely ExMI, and moreover, there was no control group in two of these studies. One study compared the effects of Kegel exercises with ExMI, while another study compared electrostimulation with ExMI. The reviewed studies exhibited significant differences in interventions, populations, and outcome measures. Conclusions: Extracorporeal magnetic stimulation has shown promise as an effective treatment for female urinary incontinence. Whether used alone or as a component of combination therapy, ExMI has the potential to enhance patients’ quality of life (QoL) without significant safety concerns.
Prediction and Prevention of Preterm Birth: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Intervention Trial
Authors: Combs C. Andrew , Zupancic John A. F. , Walker Michael , Shi Jing
Published: August 2023

Our objective was to evaluate whether pregnancy is prolonged by the use of a proteomics-based maternal serum screening test followed by treatment interventions. This is a secondary analysis of the PREVENT-PTB randomized trial comparing screening with the PreTRM test versus no screening. The primary trial analysis found no significant between-group difference in the preterm birth rate. Rather than considering a dichotomous outcome (preterm versus term), we treated gestational age at birth as a continuous variable using survival analysis. We also evaluated between-group difference in NICU length of stay and duration of respiratory support. Results indicated that pregnancy was significantly prolonged in subjects screened with the PreTRM test compared to controls (adjusted hazard ratio 0.53, 95% confidence interval 0.36–0.78, p < 0.01). Newborns of screened subjects had significantly shorter NICU stays but no significant decrease in duration of respiratory support. In the PreTRM screen-positive group, interventions that were associated with pregnancy prolongation included care management and low-dose aspirin but not 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate. We conclude that screening with the PreTRM test followed by interventions for screen-positive pregnancies may prolong pregnancy and reduce NICU LOS, but these observations need to be confirmed by additional research.
Descemet’s Membrane Detachment during Phacocanaloplasty: Case Series and In-Depth Literature Review
Authors: Orejudo de Rivas Marta , Martínez Morales Juana , Pardina Claver Elena , Pérez García Diana , Pérez Navarro Itziar , Ascaso Puyuelo Francisco J. , Aramburu Clavería Julia , Ibáñez Alperte Juan
Published: August 2023

This article presents three cases of Descemet’s membrane detachment (DMD) occurring during ‘ab externo’ phacocanaloplasty procedures in three patients with uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma (OAG) and discusses the management of this condition by reviewing the available literature. Following a successful 360° cannulation of Schlemm’s canal (SC), the microcatheter was withdrawn while an ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) was injected into the canal. During passage through the inferonasal quadrant, a spontaneous separation of the posterior layer of the cornea was observed. Each case was managed differently after diagnosis, with the third case being drained intraoperatively based on experience gained from the previous cases. On the first postoperative day, slit-lamp biomicroscopy (BMC) revealed multiple DMDs in case one and a hyphema in the lower third of a deep anterior chamber. In the other two cases, a single DMD was observed. The second case developed hemorrhagic Descemet membrane detachment (HDMD), while the other two were non-hemorrhagic. In all three cases, anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) revealed the presence of retrocorneal hyperreflective membranes indicative of DMDs. These membranes were located in the periphery of the cornea and did not impact the visual axis. After evaluation, a small incision was made in the inferotemporal DMD of the first case. However, for the two remaining cases, a strategy of watchful waiting was deemed appropriate due to the location and size of the DMDs, as they did not affect the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Over time, the patients demonstrated progressive improvement with a gradual reduction in the size of the DMDs.
The Current Role of Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test in the Diagnosis and Management of Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Pezzuto Beatrice , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: August 2023

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease with a poor prognosis if left untreated. Despite remarkable achievements in understanding disease pathophysiology, specific treatments, and therapeutic strategies, we are still far from a definitive cure for the disease, and numerous evidences have underlined the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to improve the prognosis. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is the gold standard for assessing functional capacity and evaluating the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying exercise limitation. As effort dyspnea is the earliest and one of the main clinical manifestations of PAH, CPET has been shown to provide valid support in early detection, differential diagnosis, and prognostic stratification of PAH patients, being a useful tool in both the first approach to patients and follow-up. The purpose of this review is to present the current applications of CPET in pulmonary hypertension and to propose possible future utilization to be further investigated.
Maintenance Therapy for Children and Adolescents with Asthma: Guidelines and Recommendations from the Emilia-Romagna Asthma (ERA) Study Group
Authors: Fainardi Valentina , Caffarelli Carlo , Deolmi Michela , Zambelli Giulia , Palazzolo Elisabetta , Scavone Sara , Bergamini Barbara Maria , Bertelli Luca , Biserna Loretta , Bottau Paolo , Corinaldesi Elena , De Paulis Nicoletta , Di Palmo Emanuela , Dondi Arianna , Gallucci Marcella , Guidi Battista , Lombardi Francesca , Magistrali Maria Sole , Marastoni Elisabetta , Pastorelli Silvia , Piccorossi Alessandra , Poloni Maurizio , Tagliati Sylvie , Vaienti Francesca , Gregori Giuseppe , Sacchetti Roberto , Antodaro Francesco , Bergomi Andrea , Reggiani Lamberto , De Fanti Alessandro , Marchetti Federico , Grandinetti Roberto , Mussi Nicole , Ricci Giampaolo , Esposito Susanna
Published: August 2023

Asthma is the most frequent chronic disease of childhood, affecting up to 20% of children worldwide. The main guidelines on asthma maintenance therapy in pediatrics suggest different approaches and describe different stages of asthma to determine the most appropriate treatment. This project aims to summarize the most recent evidence regarding maintenance therapy for asthma in children and adolescents. A multidisciplinary panel of experts was asked clinical questions regarding the treatment of children and adolescents with asthma. Overall, 10 clinical questions were addressed, and the search strategy included accessing electronic databases and a manual search of gray literature published in the last 25 years. After data extraction and narrative synthesis of results, recommendations were developed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) methodology. Results showed that the choice of medication depends on the severity of the child’s asthma, phenotype, age, preference, and individual factors. In addition to medications, the identification of comorbidities and modifiable factors is crucial to obtaining good control. Asthma in children is heterogeneous, and its evolution varies over time. Since most recommendations for asthma management in childhood are extrapolated from clinical studies performed in adults, more clinical trials specifically designed for young children should be conducted.
Patterns of Food Selectivity among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Byrska Anna , Błażejczyk Idalia , Faruga Anna , Potaczek Maria , Wilczyński Krzysztof M. , Janas-Kozik Małgorzata
Published: August 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by food selectivity in a significant portion of the population. The nature of this selectivity remains unclear, with hypotheses suggesting associations with sensory disorders or stereotypical and repetitive patterns of activity and interests. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and nature of food selectivity traits in individuals with ASD compared with the neurotypical population. This study involved 219 participants, with 115 diagnosed with autism and 92 without. Twelve children undergoing diagnosis were excluded from the analyses. The findings revealed that food selectivity traits are more common in individuals with ASD, with differences in preferences mainly involving structure, color, taste, and serving method. Children with ASD had more food selectivity traits than those without, and the intake of certain food characteristics could be altered as they grow. Selectivity occurred for both sensory and stereotypical reasons, but stereotypical features significantly differentiated neurotypical individuals from those with ASD.
Effects of High-Flow Nasal Cannula on Right Heart Dysfunction in Patients with Acute-on-Chronic Respiratory Failure and Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Pelaia Corrado , Armentaro Giuseppe , Lupia Chiara , Maiorano Antonio , Montenegro Nicola , Miceli Sofia , Condoleo Valentino , Cassano Velia , Bruni Andrea , Garofalo Eugenio , Crimi Claudia , Vatrella Alessandro , Pelaia Girolamo , Longhini Federico , Sciacqua Angela
Published: August 2023

High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) has several benefits in patients affected by different forms of acute respiratory failure, based on its own mechanisms. We postulated that HFNC may have some advantages over conventional oxygen therapy (COT) on the heart function in patients with acute-on-chronic respiratory failure with concomitant pulmonary hypertension (PH). We therefore designed this retrospective observational study to assess if HFNC improves the right and left ventricle functions and morphologies, arterial blood gases (ABGs), and patients’ dyspnea, compared to COT. We enrolled 17 hospitalized patients receiving HFNC, matched with 17 patients receiving COT. Echocardiographic evaluation was performed at the time of admission (baseline) and 10 days after (T10). HFNC showed significant improvements in right ventricular morphology and function, and a reduction in sPAP. However, there were no significant changes in the left heart measurements with HFNC application. Conversely, COT did not lead to any modifications in echocardiographic measurements. In both groups, oxygenation significantly improved from baseline to T10 (in the HFNC group, from 155 ± 47 to 204 ± 61 mmHg while in the COT group, from 157 ± 27 to 207 ± 27 mmHg; p < 0.0001 for both comparisons). In conclusion, these data suggest an improvement of oxygenation with both treatments; however, only HFNC was able to improve the right ventricular morphology and function after 10 days from the beginning of treatment in a small cohort of patients with acute-on-chronic respiratory failure with PH.
Laser-Welded Corrugated-Core Sandwich Composition—Numerical Modelling Strategy for Structural Analysis
Authors: Nilsson Peter , Atashipour Seyed Rasoul , Al-Emrani Mohammad
Published: August 2023

Laser-welding technology has recently enabled the production of corrugated-core steel sandwich panels (CCSSPs) as an innovative large-scale, lightweight structural solution in maritime and infrastructure applications. Detailed numerical analyses, specifically weld-region stress prediction in the presence of transverse patch loading and supports, are computationally challenging and time-consuming for their optimal design. This paper introduces an efficient, simplified combined sub-modelling approach for accurately predicting the detailed structural response of welded corrugated-core steel panels. The approach rests on the homogenisation of the three-dimensional (3D) panel into a two-dimensional equivalent orthotropic single layer (EOSL), where the effect of transverse compressive loads and local support conditions are captured separately via different 2D and 3D sub-modelling techniques, together with a model introduced for calculation of the weld region’s equivalent spring stiffnesses. A laser-welded corrugated-core steel sandwich panel (CCSSP), as a future generation of the steel bridge deck, was examined using different modelling approaches. It was shown that the proposed combined sub-modelling approach can accurately predict stresses and displacements in all the constituent members of the cross-section, including the welds, in a reasonable calculation time when compared with a 3D reference model, unlike the conventional homogenisation approaches.
An Innovative Faster R-CNN-Based Framework for Breast Cancer Detection in MRI
Authors: Raimundo João Nuno Centeno , Fontes João Pedro Pereira , Gonzaga Mendes Magalhães Luís , Guevara Lopez Miguel Angel
Published: August 2023

Replacing lung cancer as the most commonly diagnosed cancer globally, breast cancer (BC) today accounts for 1 in 8 cancer diagnoses and a total of 2.3 million new cases in both sexes combined. An estimated 685,000 women died from BC in 2020, corresponding to 16% or 1 in every 6 cancer deaths in women. BC represents a quarter of a total of cancer cases in females and by far the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women in 2020. However, when detected in the early stages of the disease, treatment methods have proven to be very effective in increasing life expectancy and, in many cases, patients fully recover. Several medical imaging modalities, such as X-rays Mammography (MG), Ultrasound (US), Computer Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Digital Tomosynthesis (DT) have been explored to support radiologists/physicians in clinical decision-making workflows for the detection and diagnosis of BC. In this work, we propose a novel Faster R-CNN-based framework to automate the detection of BC pathological Lesions in MRI. As a main contribution, we have developed and experimentally (statistically) validated an innovative method improving the “breast MRI preprocessing phase” to select the patient’s slices (images) and associated bounding boxes representing pathological lesions. In this way, it is possible to create a more robust training (benchmarking) dataset to feed Deep Learning (DL) models, reducing the computation time and the dimension of the dataset, and more importantly, to identify with high accuracy the specific regions (bounding boxes) for each of the patient’s images, in which a possible pathological lesion (tumor) has been identified. As a result, in an experimental setting using a fully annotated dataset (released to the public domain) comprising a total of 922 MRI-based BC patient cases, we have achieved, as the most accurate trained model, an accuracy rate of 97.83%, and subsequently, applying a ten-fold cross-validation method, a mean accuracy on the trained models of 94.46% and an associated standard deviation of 2.43%.
The Effect of Ventilation on the Hazards of Hydrogen Release in Enclosed Areas of Hydrogen-Fueled Ship
Authors: Ryu Bo Rim , Duong Phan Anh , Kim Jun-Bae , Choi Sung-Yoon , Shin Jae Woong , Jung Jinwon , Kang Hokeun
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a systematic investigation that encompasses the safety assessment of a fuel preparation room (FPR) intended for a hydrogen-fueled ship. The primary objective is to determine the appropriate ventilation strategy to mitigate the risks associated with potential hydrogen leakage. The study focuses on a case involving an FPR measuring 10.2 m × 5.3 m × 2.65 m, which is part of a 750 DWT hydrogen-powered fishing vessel. To identify the potential events leading to hydrogen dispersion, an event tree analysis is conducted. Additionally, existing regulations and guidelines related to the safety assessments of hydrogen leakage in enclosed areas are summarized and analyzed. Computational fluid dynamics, FLACS-CFD, are utilized for the consequence analysis in order to evaluate the impact of ventilation on hydrogen dispersion and concentration within the FPR. The research findings indicate significant effects of ventilation on the hazards and safety assessments of FPRs and high-pressure fuel gas supply systems. The study highlights that hydrogen vapor tends to accumulate at the ceiling and in the corners and spaces created by the equipment. The position and size of ventilation openings greatly influence the dispersion of hydrogen leakage. Proper ventilation design, including top inlet ventilation and outlet ventilation on the opposite side, helps to maintain a safe FPR by facilitating the efficient dispersion of hydrogen vapor. Moreover, locating inlet ventilation on the same side as the outlet ventilation is found to hinder dispersion, while the cross-ventilation achieved by placing inlets and outlets on opposite sides enhances airflow and dispersion. Consequently, it is recommended to prioritize the structural design of FPRs and implement enhanced safety measures. Additionally, updating the relevant regulations to address these concerns is strongly advised.
Port Call Optimization at a Ferry Terminal with Stochastic Servicing Time and Additional Visits
Authors: Qi Jingwen , Chen Tingting , Zheng Jianfeng , Wang Shuaian
Published: August 2023

Ferry shipping is an indispensable method of public transportation, especially in areas with well-developed river systems or coastal areas. The increasing demand for transport requires additional visits and introduces the problem of ship visit schedule engineering at ferry terminals with stochastic servicing time. In this paper, we propose a ferry visit planning problem to maximize the total profit, in which the berthing time, berthing location, and servicing time for each ferry visit are optimized. Then, a mixed-integer nonlinear programming model is proposed to formulate the focal problem. We propose a tailored solution method to convert the mixed-integer nonlinear programming model to a mixed-integer linear programming model. We further devise an inserting algorithm to test the performance of our model. A comparison between the results of the basic instance yielded by our model and those of the inserting algorithm validates our model and solution method. We then conduct sensitivity analyses of the impacts of different numbers of existing ferry visits and added ferry visits, different expectations of the real time taken by all the ferry visits, and different distribution patterns of existing ferry visits, to further validate the performance of our model.
A Debate on Surgical and Nonsurgical Approaches for Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Zabara-Antal Andreea , Grosu-Creanga Ionela , Zabara Mihai Lucian , Cernomaz Andrei Tudor , Ciuntu Bogdan Mihnea , Melinte Oana , Lupascu Cristian , Trofor Antigona Carmen
Published: August 2023

Regular and unobstructed breathing during the night is the prerequisite for an undisturbed and restful sleep. The most prevalent nocturnal breathing disturbance with morbid consequences is obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is increasing, and a significant number of patients with OSA are undiagnosed. On the other hand, the “obesity epidemic” is a growing concern globally. A sleep test is required to diagnose sleep apnea and to individualize therapy. A multidisciplinary approach is the key to success. This narrative review presents a debate on whether surgery is a friend or a foe in the treatment of sleep apnea. Depending on the type and severity of the apnea, the causal factor, and the presence of obesity and hypercapnia as well as the associated pathologies, the optimal therapeutic method is determined for each individual case. The article concludes that each case is unique, and there is no ideal method. Positive pressure ventilation, although a therapeutic gold standard, has its disadvantages extensively discussed in this paper. Nevertheless, it is necessary prior to any surgical intervention, either for the curative treatment of the causal factor of apnea or for elective surgery for another condition. The anesthetic risks associated with the presence of apnea and obesity should not be neglected and should form the basis for decision making regarding surgical interventions for the treatment of sleep apnea.
Quantitative Assessment of Geodiversity for Conservation Purposes in Slovenské rudohorie Mountains (Slovakia)
Authors: Barančoková Mária , Hutárová Daniela , Nikolaj Maroš
Published: August 2023

A geodiversity assessment is one of the basic steps in the development of geoprotection activities. It is important to establish parameters that quantify the elements and locations of abiotic nature. Here, the focus is on those who are richer than the average population. In doing so, it is possible to manage areas for the protection of important geoheritage and develop sustainable activities, e.g., geotourism. The monitored territory (Slovenské rudohorie Mts.) lies in southeast Slovakia and occupies an area of 4986 km2. The geodiversity assessment is based on overlaying a grid onto different maps at a scale of 1:500,000, where the final geodiversity index is the sum of six indices calculated in 5 × 5 km grid squares. These indices consist of a geological index, a geomorphological index (composed of two sub-indices: geomorphological subdivision and morphological–morphometric types), a hydrological index (composed of three sub-indices: the type of aquifer, the density of the river network, and the occurrence of springs and mineral waters), a soil index, a tectonic index, and a mineral resources index (composed of four sub-indices: the occurrence of ore, non-ore, construction, and energy resources). The resulting geodiversity index map is presented in the form of five isoline classes: very high (10% of the monitored area), high (28%), medium (32%), low (23%), and very low (7%). The geodiversity map of the territory of the Slovenské rudohorie Mts., together with the indices, creates a useful tool for conservation, management, sustainability programs, and education at the national level. However, Slovak legislation does not mention the concept of geodiversity, its protection, valuation, restoration, or responsible usage. Only its specific forms and processes are preserved as a natural resource supporting biodiversity. Considering the mineralogical richness of the area, some locations with a very high geodiversity may be the focus of mineral exploration. It is very important to set up appropriate landscape management for these sites. Valuable geotopes located in biodiversity cold spots that are not subject to protection within the state’s nature protection program should be considered as small protected areas (up to 1000 ha) at the fourth or fifth level of protection under Act No. 543/2002 Coll. or could form the core areas of a possible Geopark.
Utilisation of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Soil Information to Derive Soil Nutrient Management Zones for Banana Production in a Smallholder Farm
Authors: Swafo Seome Michael , Dlamini Phesheya Eugine
Published: August 2023

In South Africa (SA), smallholder farmers contribute significantly to food production and play an essential role in the nation’s food and nutritional security. However, there is a lack of basic understanding of the spatial variability of soil nutrients and their controlling factors in these smallholdings, which subsequently hinders their agricultural production. In this work, we assessed the spatial variability and structure of key soil nutrients required by banana fruit, identified their factors of control, and delineated management zones in a smallholder farm. We used a regular grid (50 m × 50 m) to collect a total of 27 composite samples from the 0–30 cm depth interval and analysed for soil physicochemical properties. Our classical statistics results indicated that phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and zinc (Zn) varied highly, while magnesium (Mg) and total nitrogen (TN) varied moderately across the plantation. On the other hand, geostatistics revealed that P and K were strongly spatially dependent (implying a good structure), while Mg and Zn were moderately spatially dependent (indicating a moderate structure) across the banana plantation. Soil Ca and TN contents were found to be weakly spatially dependent (meaning there was no structure) across the farm. The spatial prediction maps showed that P, Mg and Zn contents were high in the northeast part (underlain by Valsrivier) and low in the northwest part (underlain by Westleigh) of the banana plantation farm. Similarly, K and Ca were low in the northwest part (underlain by Westleigh), but they were high in the south to southwest portion (underlain by Glenrosa) of the farm. Soil TN was high in the west part (underlain by Westleigh) and low in the east-northeast part (underlain by Valsrivier) across the plantation. Three management zones (MZs) were delineated for soil P, K and Ca, while for other nutrients (Mg, Zn and TN), two MZs were delineated. The results of this study provide baseline information for site-specific management of fertilisers to supplement soil nutrients in the field to improve banana productivity.
Analysis of Land Use Change Characteristics and Its Driving Forces in the Loess Plateau: A Case Study in the Yan River Basin
Authors: Zhou Jiahui , Gao Peng , Wu Changxue , Mu Xingmin
Published: August 2023

Land resources are closely intertwined with human survival, making it crucial to explore the spatiotemporal changes and driving forces of land use. In this study, the Yan River Basin in the Loess Plateau was selected as the study area. The Mann–Kendall trend test, Pettitt’s test, landscape pattern indices, and other methods were employed to explore characteristics and driving factors of land use change from 1990 to 2020. The results indicate that: (1) The areas of forest and impervious showed a significant increasing trend and suddenly changed in 2004. Change-point years for the area of cropland and grassland were 2005 and 1999, respectively. The main transition of land use types was from cropland to grassland and from grassland to forest. (2) Patches showed a trend towards regularization and simplification, indicating the strengthening of human activities’ impact on spatial patterns. (3) Both social and natural factors jointly influenced land use change in the Yan River Basin. The Grain for Green (GfG) project was the main driving factor in accelerating land use transformation. This study aims to provide a basis for the scientific management of land resources and serve as an example for related research on land use change in the Loess Plateau.
Phase Structure, Microstructure, Corrosion, and Wear Resistance of Al0.8CrFeCoNiCu0.5 High-Entropy Alloy
Authors: Li Yanzhou , Wang Xingfu , Shi Zimu , Liang Juhua
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the structure and corrosion behavior of the Al0.8CrFeCoNiCu0.5 high-entropy alloy prepared using non-consumable vacuum arc melting. XRD analysis identified BCC1 and BCC2 phases corresponding to (Fe-Cr) and Al-Ni, respectively, while the FCC phase aligned with Cu. SEM and EBSD observations confirmed an equiaxed grain structure with fishbone-like morphology at grain boundaries and modulated structures within the grains. The alloy exhibited minimal residual stress and strain. The alloy demonstrated a preferred orientation of grain growth along the <001> direction. Electrochemical testing in a 3.5% NaCl solution revealed a corrosion potential of −0.332 V and a corrosion current density of 2.61 × 10−6 A/cm2. The intergranular corrosion regions exhibited significant depletion of Al and Cu elements, with the corrosion products primarily consisting of Al and Cu. Al and Cu elements are susceptible to corrosion. The wear scar width of Al0.8CrFeCoNiCu0.5 high-entropy alloy is 1.65 mm, which is less than 45# steel, and high-entropy alloy has more excellent wear resistance. Given its unique attributes, this high-entropy alloy could find potential applications in high-end manufacturing industries such as the aerospace engineering, the defense industry, energy production, and chemical processing where high corrosion resistance and wear resilience are crucial.
Study on the Dye Removal from Aqueous Solutions by Graphene-Based Adsorbents
Authors: Vassileva Paunka , Tumbalev Vencislav , Kichukova Diana , Voykova Dimitrinka , Kovacheva Daniela , Spassova Ivanka
Published: August 2023

In the current investigation, the removal efficiency regarding a cationic dye, methylene blue (MB), from three graphene-based materials was investigated. The materials’ characterization process involved instrumental methods such as XRD, XPS, SEM, TEM, FTIR, and nitrogen adsorption at 77 K. The survey examined how various process factors influenced the ability of the studied materials to adsorb cationic dyes. These parameters encompassed contact time, initial dye concentrations, solution pH, and temperature. The adsorption procedure was effectively explained through the application of pseudo-second-order and Langmuir models. The maximum adsorption capacity for the best adsorbent at 293 K was found to be 49.4 mg g−1. In addition, the study also determined the entropy, enthalpy, and Gibbs free energy values associated with the removal of MB and showed that the adsorption of MB is endothermic, feasible, and spontaneous. The results also revealed that the studied materials are suitable adsorbents for the removal of cationic dyes.
Properties of PBZTS Ferroelectric Ceramics Obtained Using Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Brzezińska Dagmara , Bochenek Dariusz , Niemiec Przemysław , Dercz Grzegorz
Published: August 2023

In this paper, spark plasma sintering was used to obtain and investigate (Pb0.97Ba0.03)(Zr0.98Ti0.02)1−xSnxO3 (PBZTS) ceramic materials for x = 0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, and 0.08. Crystal structure, microstructure, dielectric and ferroelectric properties, and electrical conductivity tests of a series of samples were carried out. The SPS sintering method ensures favorable dielectric and ferroelectric properties of PBZTS ceramic materials. X-ray studies have shown that the material has a perovskite structure. The samples have a densely packed material structure with properly crystallized grains. The fine-grained microstructure of the PZBZTS material with high grain homogeneity allows the application of higher electric fields. Ceramic samples obtained by the SPS method have higher density values than samples obtained by the classical method (FS). The permittivity at room temperature is in the range of 245–282, while at the phase transition temperature is in the range of 10,259–12,221. At room temperature, dielectric loss factor values range from 0.006 to 0.036. The hysteresis loops of PBZTS ceramics have a shape typical for ferroelectric hard materials, and the remnant polarization values range from 0.32 to 0.39 µC/cm2. The activation energy Ea values of the PBZTS samples result mainly from the presence of oxygen vacancies. The PZT material doped with Ba and Sn and sintered via the SPS method has favorable physical parameters for applications in modern devices such as actuators or pulse capacitors.
Effect of Ball Milling Time on the Microstructure and Properties of High-Silicon–Aluminum Composite
Authors: Kong Zhaoyang , Wang Zhipeng , Chen Bin , Li Yingmin , Li Runxia
Published: August 2023

The duration of ball milling greatly influences the characteristics of high-silicon–aluminum composite during the ball milling process. This study examines how the microstructure, thermal conductivity, and hardness of a high-silicon–aluminum composite are affected by different ball milling times. We exposed the powder to various durations of ball milling and employed different pellet ratios. Following this treatment, the powder underwent consolidation via discharge plasma sintering. Our findings show that with a pellet ratio of 10:1 and a milling duration of 8 h, the powder particles were refined, resulting in a more uniform and dense material composition. This refined material boasted a thermal conductivity of 111.6 W/m·K, a Brinell hardness of 136.8 HBW, and a density of 2.304 g/cm3. This method facilitates the creation of a uniform composite powder composition. It encourages the development of a fine-grain structure, which enables the production of particle-reinforced composites with superior properties.