bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Two Sides of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kumar Ravinder , Srivastava Vartika , Nand Kripa N.
Published: December 2023

On 5 May 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared the end of the coronavirus disease-19 (or COVID-19) pandemic. Even before the official announcement from the WHO, signs of recovery from the pandemic started appearing, especially after rapid worldwide vaccination. As society is getting back to its usual with each passing day, with the increasing socio-economic activities, discussion of the negative and positive outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic remain the predominant topic of debate. Through this review, we discuss the bright side of the pandemic without undermining the pain and suffering everyone has gone through in this pandemic. The review also examined the painful side of the pandemic. Therefore, this review can be looked at as a comparison between this pandemic’s positive and negative effects. The review discussed aspects ranging from technological development, including mRNA-based vaccines, artificial intelligence-based screening, and telemedicine, to social behavior, from individual to global and from health to the environment. The review also examined the areas needing more attention for managing future pandemics. The review also highlighted what should be followed or continued for our preparedness for any possible pandemic. Toward the end, we also discussed how this pandemic has better prepared the world for future pandemics, as predicted by experts.
Importance of Dyslipidaemia Treatment in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus—A Narrative Review
Authors: Strikić Dominik , Vujević Andro , Perica Dražen , Leskovar Dunja , Paponja Kristina , Pećin Ivan , Merćep Iveta
Published: December 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common metabolic disease characterised by insulin resistance and elevated blood glucose levels, affecting millions of people worldwide. T2DM individuals with dyslipidaemia have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). A complex interplay of risk factors such as hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, obesity, inflammation, and oxidative stress favour the development of atherosclerosis, a central mechanism in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. Dyslipidaemia, a hallmark of T2DM, is characterised by elevated triglycerides, decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and the presence of small, dense low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, all of which promote atherosclerosis. In this article, we have attempted to present various treatment strategies that include pharmacological interventions such as statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, fibrates, and omega-3 fatty acids. We have also tried to highlight the pivotal role of lifestyle modifications, including physical activity and dietary changes, in improving lipid profiles and overall cardiovascular health in T2DM individuals. We have also tried to present the latest clinical guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemia in T2DM individuals. In conclusion, the treatment of dyslipidaemia in T2DM individuals is of great importance as it lowers lipid particle levels, slows the progression of atherosclerosis, and ultimately reduces susceptibility to cardiovascular disease.
Tumor Segmentation in Colorectal Ultrasound Images Using an Ensemble Transfer Learning Model: Towards Intra-Operative Margin Assessment
Authors: Geldof Freija , Pruijssers Constantijn W. A. , Jong Lynn-Jade S. , Veluponnar Dinusha , Ruers Theo J. M. , Dashtbozorg Behdad
Published: December 2023

Tumor boundary identification during colorectal cancer surgery can be challenging, and incomplete tumor removal occurs in approximately 10% of the patients operated for advanced rectal cancer. In this paper, a deep learning framework for automatic tumor segmentation in colorectal ultrasound images was developed, to provide real-time guidance on resection margins using intra-operative ultrasound. A colorectal ultrasound dataset was acquired consisting of 179 images from 74 patients, with ground truth tumor annotations based on histopathology results. To address data scarcity, transfer learning techniques were used to optimize models pre-trained on breast ultrasound data for colorectal ultrasound data. A new custom gradient-based loss function (GWDice) was developed, which emphasizes the clinically relevant top margin of the tumor while training the networks. Lastly, ensemble learning methods were applied to combine tumor segmentation predictions of multiple individual models and further improve the overall tumor segmentation performance. Transfer learning outperformed training from scratch, with an average Dice coefficient over all individual networks of 0.78 compared to 0.68. The new GWDice loss function clearly decreased the average tumor margin prediction error from 1.08 mm to 0.92 mm, without compromising the segmentation of the overall tumor contour. Ensemble learning further improved the Dice coefficient to 0.84 and the tumor margin prediction error to 0.67 mm. Using transfer and ensemble learning strategies, good tumor segmentation performance was achieved despite the relatively small dataset. The developed US segmentation model may contribute to more accurate colorectal tumor resections by providing real-time intra-operative feedback on tumor margins.
Myocardial Edema: A Rare but Specific Manifestation of Neonatal Capillary Leak Syndrome
Authors: Liu Jing , Gao Yue-Qiao
Published: December 2023

Capillary leak syndrome (CLS) is a rare, potentially life-threatening systemic disease with a mortality rate of more than 30%. Its major clinical manifestation and diagnostic basis are systemic hyperedema. However, we lack knowledge about the presence of severe myocardial edema in patients with CLS. If myocardial edema cannot be detected, it will become a dangerous hidden condition that threatens the safety of patient lives. With the routine application of point-of-care critical ultrasound (POC-CUS) in clinical practice, we found that 2 of 37 (5.41%) CLS patients had severe myocardial edema as the main manifestation. It is also necessary to distinguish it from myocardial noncompaction in newborn infants with severe myocardial edema. This paper will help us to have a deeper understanding and correct management of CLS and, thus, help us to improve the prognosis of patients. This article also suggests the necessity of routine implementation of POC-CUS in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Psychophysical and Social Functioning of Patients with Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease and Depression
Authors: Jelić Ivana , Mihajlović Goran , Ratinac Miloš , Mihajlović Katarina , Mijailović Sara , Čekerevac Ivan
Published: December 2023

The relationship between depression and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not fully understood. The comorbidity rate ranges from 18 to 84%, and depression is closely related to chronic inflammation, which affects how patients and the people around them perceive their condition. This study aims to examine the relationship between the psychophysical and social functioning of COPD patients who have been diagnosed with depression and the therapeutic benefits of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This prospective study enrolled primary care patients diagnosed with COPD and depression. The entire period of this research was 3 years. The research was conducted at the Primary Health Center, Kragujevac, Serbia, in 87 patients for 8 weeks. The Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D) and Questionnaire for Quality of Life and Life Satisfaction Short Form (Q-LES-Q-SF) were used for psychiatric assessment. A positive correlation was found between the psychophysical and social functioning of the participants after 8 weeks of treatment with SSRIs. Based on the value of the phi correlation coefficient (phi = 0.5) obtained using the χ2 test, a large influence was observed in terms of life satisfaction and physical health (p < 0.05). In terms of physical functioning by gender, based on the value of the Pearson’s coefficient (r) obtained with the χ2 test, it was shown that physical functioning was superior in the female respondents (p < 0.05). Treatment was found to improve depression in COPD after 8 weeks of therapy.
Subjective Well-Being and Self-Assessed Health of Adolescents: A Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Matić Ivica , Musil Vera
Published: December 2023

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the stability and predictors of subjective well-being and self-perceived health in adolescents over a two-year period, focusing on the importance of mental health in overall well-being. Methods: Participants in this longitudinal cohort study were surveyed at the ages of 15 (n = 441) and 17 (n = 354) through questionnaires. The data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Hierarchical regression was employed to investigate significant predictors of subjective well-being. The subjective well-being and self-perceived health dimensions showed a consistent level of stability throughout the two-year period of secondary education. Additionally, there was a significant correlation between well-being at the beginning and end of this education period. Furthermore, self-perceived health dimensions, particularly general health, vitality, and mental health, were positively associated with well-being at the end of secondary education, highlighting their role in overall subjective well-being. The regression analysis revealed that self-perceived health factors, notably “General health” and “Mental health”, significantly predicted overall subjective well-being, enhancing the model’s explanatory power beyond gender and economic status. Nevertheless, baseline subjective well-being has the strongest predictive effect on final well-being. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of psychological and health factors, particularly mental health, that affect the overall well-being of adolescents and emphasizes the need to focus on and improve these factors in order to improve subjective well-being.
A Systematic Evaluation: Fine-Grained CNN vs. Traditional CNN Classifiers
Authors: Anwar Saeed , Barnes Nick , Petersson Lars
Published: December 2023

Fine-grained classifiers collect information about inter-class variations to best use the underlying minute and subtle differences. The task is challenging due to the minor differences between the colors, viewpoints, and structure in the same class entities. The classification becomes difficult and challenging due to the similarities between the differences in viewpoint with other classes and its own. This work investigates the performance of landmark traditional CNN classifiers, presenting top-notch results on large-scale classification datasets and comparing them against state-of-the-art fine-grained classifiers. This paper poses three specific questions. (i) Do the traditional CNN classifiers achieve comparable results to fine-grained classifiers? (ii) Do traditional CNN classifiers require any specific information to improve fine-grained ones? (iii) Do current traditional state-of-the-art CNN classifiers improve the fine-grained classification while utilized as a backbone? Therefore, we train the general CNN classifiers throughout this work without introducing any aspect specific to fine-grained datasets. We show an extensive evaluation on six datasets to determine whether the fine-grained classifier can elevate the baseline in their experiments. We provide ablation studies regarding efficiency, number of parameters, flops, and performance.
Triboelectric Nanogenerator-Based Electronic Sensor System for Food Applications
Authors: Wang Yutong , Jin Weifeng , Wang Langhong , Zhu Zhiyuan
Published: December 2023

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have garnered significant attention due to their ability to efficiently harvest energy from the surrounding environment and from living organisms, as well as to enable the efficient utilization of various materials, such as organic polymers, metals, and inorganic compounds. As a result, TENGs represent an emerging class of self-powered devices that can power small sensors or serve as multifunctional sensors themselves to detect a variety of physical and chemical stimuli. In this context, TENGs are expected to play a pivotal role in the entire process of food manufacturing. The rapid development of the Internet of Things and sensor technology has built a huge platform for sensor systems for food testing. TENG-based sensor data provide novel judgment and classification features, offering a fast and convenient means of food safety detection. This review comprehensively summarizes the latest progress in the application of TENGs in the food field, mainly involving food quality testing, food monitoring, food safety, and agricultural production. We also introduce different TENG-based, self-powered devices for food detection and improvement from the perspective of material strategies and manufacturing solutions. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and potential opportunities for future development of TENGs in the food field. We hope that this work can provide new insights into the structural and electronic design of TENGs, thereby benefiting environmental protection and food health.
Localization Method for Underwater Robot Swarms Based on Enhanced Visual Markers
Authors: Wei Qingbo , Yang Yi , Zhou Xingqun , Fan Chuanzhi , Zheng Quan , Hu Zhiqiang
Published: December 2023

In challenging tasks such as large-scale resource detection, deep-sea exploration, prolonged cruising, extensive topographical mapping, and operations within intricate current regions, AUV swarm technologies play a pivotal role. A core technical challenge within this realm is the precise determination of relative positions among AUVs within the cluster. Given the complexity of underwater environments, this study introduces an integrated and high-precision underwater cluster positioning method, incorporating advanced image restoration algorithms and enhanced underwater visual markers. Utilizing the Hydro-Optical Image Restoration Model (HOIRM) developed in this research, image clarity in underwater settings is significantly improved, thereby expanding the attenuation coefficient range for marker identification and enhancing it by at least 20%. Compared to other markers, the novel underwater visual marker designed in this research elevates positioning accuracy by 1.5 times under optimal water conditions and twice as much under adverse conditions. By synthesizing the aforementioned techniques, this study has successfully developed a comprehensive underwater visual positioning algorithm, amalgamating image restoration, feature detection, geometric code value analysis, and pose resolution. The efficacy of the method has been validated through real-world underwater swarm experiments, providing crucial navigational and operational assurance for AUV clusters.
Convolution Power Ratio Based on Single-Ended Protection Scheme for HVDC Transmission Lines
Authors: Peng Guangqiang , Chen Lixin , Wu Jiyang , Jiang Huimin , Wang Zhijie , Li Haifeng
Published: December 2023

In order to solve the problems of insufficient abilities to withstand transition resistance under remote faults and difficulties in identifying internal and external faults for HVDC transmission line protection, a new single-ended protection scheme based on time-domain convolutional power was proposed. In this scheme, the ratio of time-domain convolution power at different frequencies is used to detect internal and external faults, and the long window convolution power is used to form the pole selection criteria. Due to the integration of transient power fault characteristics at high and low frequencies, this scheme amplifies the characteristic differences between internal and external faults caused by DC line boundaries and has a strong ability to withstand transition resistance. Based on PSCAD/EMTDC, simulation verification was conducted on the Yunnan–Guangzhou ±800 kV HVDC project. The results show that the proposed single-ended protection scheme can effectively identify fault poles, as well as internal and external faults. It has strong resistance to transition resistance and certain anti-interference ability and has strong adaptability to DC line boundaries, which meets the protection requirements of HVDC transmission systems for high speed, selectivity and reliability.
Self-Consolidated Concrete-to-Conductive Concrete Interface: Assessment of Bond Strength and Mechanical Properties
Authors: EL-Afandi Mohammed , Yehia Sherif , Landolsi Taha , Qaddoumi Nasser , Elchalakani Mohamed
Published: December 2023

In this paper, the mechanical properties and bond strength of composite samples that consist of a conductive concrete (CC) layer and a self-consolidated concrete (SCC) layer are investigated. The bond strength study includes two parameters: (1) surface preparation and (2) casting and testing directions. The surface preparation study shows that, compared to the other methods in this study, the shear key method is the most suitable surface preparation method to fully utilize the CC in a composite. Moreover, the casting direction study reveals that the strength is heavily dependent on the type of test used along with CC’s layer positioning. The flexural strength study confirms that positioning the CC mix in the tensile region is beneficial since it can increase the flexural strength of a structure because of the hybrid steel fibers included in the mixture. Finally, different codes/specifications and published theoretical results are used to predict the CC’s mechanical properties, and the predictions are not as accurate as the SCC predictions, which can be attributed to the presence of conductive fillers in the CC mix.
Estimation Inventories of Persistent Organic Pollutants from Rice Straw Combustion as an Agricultural Waste
Authors: Khalid Asma , Guerriero Ettore , Cerasa Marina , Mahmood Tariq , Khalid Azeem , Paris Enrico , Mosca Silvia , Gallucci Francesco
Published: December 2023

Rice cultivation stands as the primary agricultural activity in Asia, generating a substantial amount of agricultural waste. Unfortunately, this waste is often disposed of through burning, contributing to severe environmental, health and climate issues. This study presents the characterization of PCDD/Fs, PCBs and PAHs. The emissions were quantified using a fixed-grid-system biomass plant and measuring the macro-pollutants online and sampling the organic micro-pollutants and metals in isokinetic mode, followed by ISO and CEN standards methods. Additionally, the role of agrochemicals was monitored in terms of metal catalysis resulting in POP emissions. This study provides the comprehensive characterization of the most relevant groups of pollutants (metals, PCDD/Fs, PCBs and PAHs) resulting from agricultural waste combustion. Prominent catalytic metals quantified were Cu (22–48 µg/Nm3) and Fe (78–113 µg/Nm3). Rice straw samples from AJK exhibited higher values of organochlorine micro-pollutants compared to those from Punjab and Sindh, i.e., ∑PCDD/F (2594 > 1493 > 856 pg/Nm3) and ∑PCB (41 > 38 > 30 pg/Nm3), respectively, whereas the organic micro-pollutants ∑c-PAH, indicators of incomplete combustion (PICs), were recorded high in the samples from Sindh followed by Punjab and AJK. The average EF is 100 pg/kg, 2.2 pg/kg and 1053.6 µg/kg for ∑PCDD/F, ∑PCB and ∑c-PAH. This study supports the idea that the phenomena leading to the formation of dioxin and dioxin-like compounds are influenced not only by poor combustion but also by the presence of metal catalysts in the burned fuel.
A Clean-Label Formulation of Fortified Yogurt Based on Rhododendron Flower Powder as a Functional Ingredient
Authors: Postolache Alina Narcisa , Veleșcu Ionuț Dumitru , Stoica Florina , Crivei Ioana Cristina , Arsenoaia Vlad Nicolae , Usturoi Marius Giorgi , Constantinescu (Pop) Cristina Gabriela , Lipșa Florin Daniel , Frunză Gabriela , Simeanu Daniel , Rațu Roxana Nicoleta
Published: December 2023

The world-wide-dispersed Rhododendron is a tiny, evergreen plant with vivid red or pale pink blossoms that is a member of the Ericaceae family and is well-known for its stunning flowers. To improve yogurt’s nutritional profile and sensory qualities, this study investigates an innovative application of Rhododendron flower powder (RFP). The potential health benefits of Rhododendron flowers, which are a rich source of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and antioxidants, have attracted attention. Consequently, the physicochemical, phytochemical, and sensory qualities of fortifying yogurt with RFP at various concentrations were studied. The results showed that the texture and color of the yogurt were highly influenced by the addition of RFP. The addition of this functional ingredient also resulted in a significant increase in the yogurt’s polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity. These findings demonstrate the suitability of RFP in yogurt formulations as a functional food ingredient, being a good source of phenolics.
Effects of Frozen Storage Time, Thawing Treatments, and Their Interaction on the Rheological Properties of Non-Fermented Wheat Dough
Authors: Yang Jingjie , Zhang Yingquan , Jiang Jikai , Zhang Bo , Li Ming , Guo Boli
Published: December 2023

In this study, the effects of frozen storage time, thawing treatments, and their interaction on the rheological properties of non-fermented dough were evaluated. Texture profile analysis (TPA), rheological measurements, including strain/frequency sweep, and creep-recovery measurement were applied to the dough. Compared with unfrozen fresh dough, the frozen storage time (S) and thawing treatment (T) influenced almost all indicators significantly, and their mutual effects (S × T) mainly affected the hardness and springiness. Frozen time was the main factor resulting in the destruction of non-fermented dough during the thawing treatments. Moreover, refrigerator thawing (4 °C) produced a dough with minimal changes in the rheological properties, regardless of the frozen storage time. Meanwhile, microwave thawing resulted in lower G′ and lower zero shear viscosity (η0) values, as well as higher maximum creep compliance (Jmax) and hardness values. Moreover, the difference between the three thawing treatments was exacerbated after 30 days of frozen storage. SEM images also showed that long-term frozen storage combined with microwave thawing seriously destroyed the rheological properties, structural stability, and inner microstructure of the dough.
Discrimination of Maturity Stages of Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Grapes Using Visible–Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhou Xuejian , Liu Wenzheng , Li Kai , Lu Dongqing , Su Yuan , Ju Yanlun , Fang Yulin , Yang Jihong
Published: December 2023

Grape quality and ripeness play a crucial role in producing exceptional wines with high-value characteristics, which requires an effective assessment of grape ripeness. The primary purpose of this research is to explore the possible application of visible–near-infrared spectral (Vis-NIR) technology for classifying the maturity stages of wine grapes based on quality indicators. The reflection spectra of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were recorded using a spectrometer in the spectral range of 400 nm to 1029 nm. After measuring the soluble solids content (SSC), total acids (TA), total phenols (TP), and tannins (TN), the grape samples were categorized into five maturity stages using a spectral clustering method. A traditional supervised classification method, a support vector machine (SVM), and two deep learning techniques, namely stacked autoencoders (SAE) and one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (1D-CNN), were employed to construct a discriminant model and investigate the association linking grape maturity stages and the spectral responses. The spectral data went through three commonly used preprocessing methods, and feature wavelengths were extracted using a competitive adaptive reweighting algorithm (CARS). The spectral data model preprocessed via multiplicative scattering correction (MSC) outperformed the other two preprocessing methods. After preprocessing, a comparison was made between the discriminant models established with full and effective spectral data. It was observed that the SAE model, utilizing the feature spectrum, demonstrated superior overall performance. The classification accuracies of the calibration and prediction sets were 100% and 94%, respectively. This study showcased the dependability of combining Vis-NIR spectroscopy with deep learning methods for rapidly and accurately distinguishing the ripeness stage of grapes. It has significant implications for future applications in wine production and the development of optoelectronic instruments tailored to the specific needs of the winemaking industry.
The Influence of Storage Temperature and Packaging Technology on the Durability of Ready-to-Eat Preservative-Free Meat Bars with Dried Plasma
Authors: Pniewski Paweł , Anusz Krzysztof , Białobrzewski Ireneusz , Puchalska Martyna , Tracz Michał , Kożuszek Radosław , Wiśniewski Jan , Zarzyńska Joanna , Jackowska-Tracz Agnieszka
Published: December 2023

Food business operators must include the results of shelf life testing in their HACCP plan. Ready-to-eat preservative-free meat products enriched with blood plasma are an unfathomable area of research in food safety. We tested modified atmosphere (80% N2 and 20% CO2) and vacuum packaged RTE preservative-free baked and smoked pork bars with dried blood plasma for Aerobic Plate Count, yeast and mould, lactic acid bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacteriaceae, Escherichia coli, and Campylobacter spp., and the presence of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. during storage (temperatures from 4 to 34 °C) up to 35 days after production. The obtained data on the count of individual groups of microorganisms were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and statistically tested (Student’s t-test with the Bonferroni correction); for temperatures at which there were statistically significant differences and high numerical variability, the trend of changes in bacterial counts were visualised using mathematical modelling. The results show that the optimal storage conditions are refrigerated temperatures (up to 8 °C) for two weeks. At higher temperatures, food spoilage occurred due to the growth of aerobic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, yeast, and mould. The MAP packaging method was more conducive to spoilage of the bars, especially in temperatures over 8 °C.
Leaf Mustard (Brassica juncea) Germplasm Resources Showed Diverse Characteristics in Agro-Morphological Traits and Glucosinolate Levels
Authors: Assefa Awraris Derbie , Kim Seong-Hoon , Ko Ho Chul , Ro Nayoung , Subramanian Parthiban , Chung Yun-Jo , Lee Yong-Hyuk , Hahn Bum-Soo , Rhee Ju-Hee
Published: December 2023

Leaf mustard, characterized by its purple/red/green leaves with a green/white midrib, is known for its thick, tender, and spicy leaves with a unique taste and flavor. There were only a few studies reported on leaf mustard for its morphological and biochemical traits from Korea. A total of 355 leaf mustard accessions stored at the GenBank of the National Agrobiodiversity Center were evaluated for 25 agro-morphological traits and seven intact glucosinolates (GSLs). The accessions showed a wide variation in terms of most of the traits. The quantitative agro-morphological traits varied from 16.0 (leaf length) to 48.7% (petiole width) of the coefficient of variation (CV). The highest variation was observed in glucoiberin (299.5%, CV), while the total GSL showed a CV of 66.1%. Sinigrin, followed by gluconapin and gluconasturtiin, was the most abundant GSL, accounting for as high as 75% of the total GSLs, while glucobrassicanapin and glucoiberin were the least abundant, contributing 0.7% and 0.1% on average, respectively. Sinigrin had a positive significant correlation with all GSLs but gluconasturtiin, while glucobarbarin and gluconasturtiin were highly positively correlated to each other, but least correlated with other GSLs. The leaf length was negatively correlated with sinigrin and glucoiberin. The width of the petiole showed a positive correlation with gluconapin, glucobrassicanapin, and glucobrassicin, while the length of the petiole had a negative correlation with sinigrin, glucobrassicanapin, glucoiberin, glucobrassicin, and the total GSLs. A higher width of the midrib was associated with higher contents of gluconapin, glucobrassicanapin, and glucobrassicin. A PCA analysis based on the agro-morphological traits showed that the first and second principal components accounted for 65.2% of the overall variability. Accessions that form a head tend to exhibit a longer leaf length, a larger plant weight, a thicker midrib, and higher widths of the midrib, petiole, and leaf. The GSLs showed inconsistent inter-and intra-leaf variation. Accessions that identified for various traits in their performance, such as, for example, Yeosu66 and IT259487 (highest total glucosinolates) and IT228984 (highest plant weight), would be promising lines for developing new varieties.
Convergence Rate of the Diffused Split-Step Truncated Euler–Maruyama Method for Stochastic Pantograph Models with Lévy Leaps
Authors: Abou-Senna Amr , AlNemer Ghada , Zhou Yongchun , Tian Boping
Published: December 2023

This paper studies the stochastic pantograph model, which is considered a subcategory of stochastic delay differential equations. A more general jump process, which is called the Lévy process, is added to the model for better performance and modeling situations, having sudden changes and extreme events such as market crashes in finance. By utilizing the truncation technique, we propose the diffused split-step truncated Euler–Maruyama method, which is considered as an explicit scheme, and apply it to the addressed model. By applying the Khasminskii-type condition, the convergence rate of the proposed scheme is attained in Lp(p≥2) sense where the non-jump coefficients grow super-linearly while the jump coefficient acts linearly. Also, the rate of convergence of the proposed scheme in Lp(0<p<2) sense is addressed where all the three coefficients grow beyond linearly. Finally, theoretical findings are manifested via some numerical examples.
Adaptive Fuzzy Fault-Tolerant Control of Uncertain Fractional-Order Nonlinear Systems with Sensor and Actuator Faults
Authors: Sun Ke , Ma Zhiyao , Dong Guowei , Gong Ping
Published: December 2023

In this work, an adaptive fuzzy backstepping fault-tolerant control (FTC) issue is tackled for uncertain fractional-order (FO) nonlinear systems with sensor and actuator faults. A fuzzy logic system is exploited to manage unknown nonlinearity. In addition, a novel FO nonlinear filter-based dynamic surface control (DSC) method is constructed, effectively avoiding the inherent complexity explosion problem in the backstepping recursive process, and in the light of the construction of auxiliary functions, compensating the coupling term introduced by faults. On account of certain assumptions, the stability criterion of the FO Lyapunov function is applied to guarantee the stability of the closed-loop system. Finally, the simulation example verifies the validity of the presented control strategy.
Starch-Based Hydrogels as a Drug Delivery System in Biomedical Applications
Authors: Lee Chung-Sung , Hwang Hee Sook
Published: December 2023

Starch-based hydrogels have gained significant attention in biomedical applications as a type of drug delivery system due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to absorb and release drugs. Starch-based hydrogels can serve as effective carriers for pharmaceutical compounds such as drugs and proteins to develop drug-loaded hydrogel systems, providing controlled release over an extended period. The porous structure of a hydrogel allows for the diffusion of drugs, ensuring sustained and localized delivery to the target site. Moreover, starch-based hydrogels have been used as a powerful option in various biomedical fields, including cancer and infectious disease treatment. In addition, starch-based hydrogels have shown promise in tissue engineering applications since hydrogels can be used as scaffolds or matrices to support cell growth and tissue regeneration. Depending on techniques such as chemical crosslinking or physical gelation, it can create a three-dimensional network structure that tunes its mechanical properties and mimics the extracellular matrix. Starch-based hydrogels can also provide a supportive environment for cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation to promote specific cellular responses and tissue regeneration processes with the loading of growth factors, cytokines, or other bioactive molecules. In this review, starch-based hydrogels as a versatile platform for various biomedical applications are discussed.
Development of Carvedilol Nanoformulation-Loaded Poloxamer-Based In Situ Gel for the Management of Glaucoma
Authors: Almutairy Bjad K. , Khafagy El-Sayed , Abu Lila Amr Selim
Published: December 2023

The objective of the current study was to fabricate a thermosensitive in situ gelling system for the ocular delivery of carvedilol-loaded spanlastics (CRV-SPLs). In situ gel formulations were prepared using poloxamer analogs by a cold method and was further laden with carvedilol-loaded spanlastics to boost the precorneal retention of the drug. The gelation capacity, rheological characteristics, muco-adhesion force and in vitro release of various in situ gel formulations (CS-ISGs) were studied. The optimized formula (F2) obtained at 22% w/v poloxamer 407 and 5% w/v poloxamer 188 was found to have good gelation capacity at body temperature with acceptable muco-adhesion properties, appropriate viscosity at 25 °C that would ease its ocular application, and relatively higher viscosity at 37 °C that promoted prolonged ocular residence of the formulation post eye instillation and displayed a sustained in vitro drug release pattern. Ex vivo transcorneal penetration studies through excised rabbit cornea revealed that F2 elicited a remarkable (p ˂ 0.05) improvement in CRV apparent permeation coefficient (Papp = 6.39 × 10−6 cm/s) compared to plain carvedilol-loaded in situ gel (CRV-ISG; Papp = 2.67 × 10−6 cm/s). Most importantly, in normal rabbits, the optimized formula (F2) resulted in a sustained intraocular pressure reduction and a significant enhancement in the ocular bioavailability of carvedilol, as manifested by a 2-fold increase in the AUC0–6h of CRV in the aqueous humor, compared to plain CRV-ISG formulation. To sum up, the developed thermosensitive in situ gelling system might represent a plausible carrier for ophthalmic drug delivery for better management of glaucoma.
Climate Change Impacts on Shallow Landslide Events and on the Performance of the Regional Shallow Landslide Early Warning System of Piemonte (Northwestern Italy)
Authors: Tiranti Davide , Ronchi Christian
Published: December 2023

Shallow landslides are one of the most dangerous gravitational phenomena. They are responsible for more than 50% of causalities due to landslides in northwestern Italy in the last century. The aim of the research study presented here is focused on understanding if and how climate change influences the occurrence and behavior of this landslide type. A total of 120 widespread shallow landslide events have been analyzed from 1960 to 2019, taking into account the spatial and time distribution in association with related rainfall historical data elaborated by the Optimal Interpolation (OI) model. Results underline that shallow landslide events’ number (aggregated per five-year intervals) is characterized by a weak trend consisting of a slight increase in the Alps and a more pronounced decrease in the hilly and Apennines environments. In addition, the trend of the annual accumulated rainfall average shows a weak drop in the winter season of about 9 mm in ten years. Moreover, the rainy days have generally decreased over the hills and Apennines, while in the Alps, only in the summer season, with a decreasing rate of about 1.5 days every ten years. The rainfall trends are in accordance with those of shallow landslide events, pointing out the close and direct dependence of the shallow landslide events on the rainfall regime variations. The results obtained were also used to validate the robustness of the performance of the Regional Shallow Landslide Early Warning System adopted in Piemonte over the investigated period, confirming the effectiveness of the trigger thresholds used for the entire historical series and for different geographical areas.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Quality of Life in Penile Cancer Patients following Surgical Treatment
Authors: Jovanović Darko , Aćimović Miodrag , Pejčić Tomislav , Milojević Bogomir , Čegar Bojan , Zeković Milica , Lisičić Nikola , Džamić Zoran , Marić Gorica
Published: December 2023

Background: Penile cancer (PC) is a highly aggressive disease, with a significant tendency for lymphatic spreading and subsequent development of distant metastases. The mutilating nature of PC surgical treatment has profound implications on the patient’s body integrity and self-image, sexual life and intimacy, voiding and mental health. The aim of our study was to comprehensively evaluate PC patients’ post-treatment quality of life (QoL), sexual activity, self-esteem, fatigue and fear of disease recurrence. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Clinic of Urology, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, and included 31 PC patients. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire. (3) Results: The average score on the Global health status scale was 67.2 out of 100 (ranging from 16.7 to 100), and the SD was 22.5. Hierarchical linear regression analysis showed that demographic characteristics, Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HADS) anxiety and depression scores, total Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, Fear of cancer recurrence and Rosenberg scores and erectile function score explained a total of 78.2% of the variance in the global health status/QoL scale of PC patients. (4) Conclusions: Efforts should be made not only to increase the survival of PC patients after surgical treatment but also to enable the best possible level of QoL in the post-operative period.
Exploring Safety Culture in the ICU of a Large Acute Teaching Hospital through Triangulating Different Data Sources
Authors: Liston Ellen , O’Connor Enda , Ward Marie E.
Published: December 2023

Safety Culture (SC) has become a key priority for safety improvement in healthcare. Studies have identified links between positive SC and improved patient outcomes. Mixed-method measurements of SC are needed to account for diverse social, cultural, and subcultural contexts within different healthcare settings. The aim of the study was to triangulate data on SC from three sources in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in a large acute teaching hospital. A mixed-methods approach was used, including analysing the Hospital Survey for Patient Safety Culture results, retrospective chart reviews using the Global Trigger Tool (GTT) for the ICU, and staff reporting of adverse events (AE). There was a 47% (101/216) response rate for the survey. Further, 98% of respondents stated a positive patient safety rating. The GTT identified 16 AEs and 11 AEs that were reported in the same timeframe. The triangulation of the data demonstrates the complexity of understanding components of SC in particular: learning, reporting, and just culture.
Depression Moderates the Relationship between Trait Anxiety, Worry and Attentional Control in Melanoma Survivors
Authors: Edwards Elizabeth J. , Chu Khanh Linh , John Nikeith , Edwards Mark S. , Lyvers Michael
Published: December 2023

Cancer survivors commonly contend with concurrent cognitive difficulties such as problems with attention and concentration, and psychological distress, including anxiety and depression. However, the associations between attentional and emotional difficulties within the specific context of melanoma survivors remain relatively unexplored. Premised on attentional control theory, the current study employed a cross-sectional design to explore the interplay among trait anxiety (dispositional) and situational anxiety (cancer-related worry), depression and attentional control (ability to inhibit distractors and flexibly shift within and between tasks) in a sample of 187 melanoma survivors aged 18 to 58 years (Mage = 36.83 years, SDage = 5.44 years; 93% female). Data were analyzed using a moderated multiple regression, with anxiety, cancer worry and depression as predictors, and attentional control as the criterion variable. After statistically controlling for the variance of chemotherapy, we found that individuals with higher trait anxiety and higher cancer-related worry reported greater attentional control at low levels of depression, yet poorer attentional control at high depression, relative to individuals with low anxiety. Our findings suggest that anxiety and depression are differentially related to attentional control in melanoma survivors. The results provide a marker for clinicians addressing anxiety and depression in this population. Implications for primary healthcare are discussed.
Studies on Seed Germination and Micropropagation of Ebenus sibthorpii, an Endemic Shrub of Greece with Potential Ornamental Use
Authors: Bertsouklis Konstantinos , Vazaka-Vodena Dimitra , Bazanis Apostolos-Emmanouil , Papafotiou Maria
Published: December 2023

The introduction of new ornamental species is a challenge for the floriculture industry. Ebenus sibthorpii is an endemic species of Greece, with a strong ornamental potential. To the best of our knowledge, there are no studies on the in vitro propagation of this species. Therefore, the current study aimed to determine the possibility of micropropagation of Ebenus sibthorpii as a first step for its introduction into the floriculture industry. A preliminary study on the germination ability of the species was also conducted on 1/2-strength Murashige and Skoog medium (MS/2), in the range of 5–35 °C. Seeds germinated at 46–64% indifferently of temperature between the range of 10–30 °C. In vitro cultures were successfully established (77–80% explant response) from single-node explants excised from seedlings, on MS medium either hormone-free (Hf) or supplemented with 6-benzyladenine (BA) at 0.5 and 1 mg L−1. The subsequent multiplication stage involved subcultures in MS medium either Hf or supplemented with various cytokinin types and concentrations, while the combination of 0.01 mg L−1 naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) with BA was also tested. Τhe highest multiplication indices (3.6–4.6) were observed in media containing BA at 0.1–0.5 mg L−1, regardless of NAA presence, and in those with 0.5 mg L−1 ZEA or 1 mg L−1 TDZ. The highest number of shoots were formed in TDZ media, but almost half of them did not elongate. To address this, a two-fold culture was developed, where micro-shoots produced on TDZ media were transferred to Hf, MS or MS/2 medium to elongate. Thus, the highest multiplication index (16.4) was achieved when micro-shoots from 1 mg L−1 TDZ medium were transferred to MS medium. The present study could be the basis of further exploitation and conservation of E. sibthorpii.
Characterisation and Identification of Vines from Fuerteventura (Canary Volcanic Archipelago (Spain)) Using Simple Sequence Repeat Markers
Authors: Fort Francesca , Lin-Yang Qiying , Valls Carla , Sancho-Galán Pau , Canals Joan Miquel , Zamora Fernando
Published: December 2023

A prospection was carried out on Fuerteventura Island in order to explore the existing biodiversity of Vitis vinifera ssp. vinifera in almost desert conditions (<120 mm per year). For this purpose, 40 individuals were collected and genotyped with 20 SSRs. Nine known varieties and one unknown variety, named Majorera on the island, were identified. In addition, four new mutations were found in the varieties Listan negro and Listan prieto, respectively. Thirteen unknown individuals and five erratic accessions were identified. Seven new names are proposed for inclusion in the world databank (one main name (Majorera), one new synonym for Listan negro (Hoja moral), four new mutation names (Listan prieto de Antigua, Listan prieto de Vega, Hoja moral de El Rosario and Hoja moral de Betancuria) and a new synonymy for Muscat Hamburg (Moscatel), which is very widespread on the island). Finally, the possibility is raised that the new Majorera variety is not a pure vinifera but the product of an interspecific cross, as has happened with the variety found on the island of La Palma, Bienmesabe tinto. Once again, the Canary Archipelago shows itself to be a possible centre for the creation of biodiversity for the cultivated vine.
Greenhouse Screening for pH Stress in Rhododendron Genotypes
Authors: Wang Shusheng , Van Labeke Marie-Christine , Dhooghe Emmy , Van Huylenbroeck Johan , Leus Leen
Published: December 2023

The genus Rhododendron is known for its preference for acidic soils, although some genotypes can tolerate a more neutral or alkaline pH. In this study, a greenhouse experiment was set up for 140 days to examine different parameters to assess pH stress in the progeny of R. fortunei and the cross combination R. ‘Pink Purple Dream’ x ‘Belami’. Additional cultivars ‘Gomer Waterer’ and ‘Cunningham’s White’ were included in the greenhouse test. The plants were divided into two groups. One group was planted in a substrate with a neutral pH (treatment, pH 6.3) and the other group of plants was planted in an acidic pH substrate (control, pH 4.5). Tolerance to pH stress was evaluated for the individual genotypes on both substrates 140 days after the start of the experiment. The following parameters were analyzed: shoot length, root development, chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm), leaf color and weight (fresh and dry). In intolerant genotypes, all parameters except for number of shoots were negatively affected by pH stress; especially, the development of roots was negatively impacted by the neutral pH, resulting in above-ground symptoms of pH stress, including decreased height and lower fresh and dry weight. The results show variation in pH tolerance within the genotypes tested and point to the potential for the selection of Rhododendron genotypes with improved tolerance to neutral pH.
Optimized Fertilization Shifted Soil Microbial Properties and Improved Vegetable Growth in Facility Soils with Obstacles
Authors: Lang Yiqian , Ma Yun , Wang Guiliang , Qian Xiaoqing , Wang Juanjuan
Published: December 2023

Currently, facility cultivation produces almost a third of all vegetables in China. The intensive production style has led to serious soil problems that need to be tackled. In this paper, a pot experiment was set up to evaluate the effects of optimized fertilization on vegetable growth and soil properties. Specifically, calcium, magnesium, boron and molybdenum were added on the basis of soil testing. The results showed that the growth of Chinese cabbage was significantly increased by optimized fertilization. The soil pH increased (by 3.82%), and EC decreased (by 8.54%). The abundance of culturable bacteria increased by 33.86%, whereas that of fungi decreased by 70.7%. The optimized fertilization increased the richness but not the evenness of soil microorganisms, increased the relative abundance of Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacillus and Bacteroidetes, and decreased the relative abundance of Actinobacteria, Chloroflexi, and superphyla. Optimized fertilization inhibited the growth of Chytridiomycota and Mortierellomycota, especially the plant pathogen Fusarium. Moreover, balanced fertilization was beneficial in promoting various metabolic processes of soil bacteria. Soil water-soluble Ca, Mg, and available Mo might be the main factors driving the change in microbial groups.