bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modular GAN: positron emission tomography image reconstruction using two generative adversarial networks
Authors: Vashistha Rajat , Vegh Viktor , Moradi Hamed , Hammond Amanda , O’Brien Kieran , Reutens David
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The reconstruction of PET images involves converting sinograms, which represent the measured counts of radioactive emissions using detector rings encircling the patient, into meaningful images. However, the quality of PET data acquisition is impacted by physical factors, photon count statistics and detector characteristics, which affect the signal-to-noise ratio, resolution and quantitative accuracy of the resulting images. To address these influences, correction methods have been developed to mitigate each of these issues separately. Recently, generative adversarial networks (GANs) based on machine learning have shown promise in learning the complex mapping between acquired PET data and reconstructed tomographic images. This study aims to investigate the properties of training images that contribute to GAN performance when non-clinical images are used for training. Additionally, we describe a method to correct common PET imaging artefacts without relying on patient-specific anatomical images.

Methods

The modular GAN framework includes two GANs. Module 1, resembling Pix2pix architecture, is trained on non-clinical sinogram-image pairs. Training data are optimised by considering image properties defined by metrics. The second module utilises adaptive instance normalisation and style embedding to enhance the quality of images from Module 1. Additional perceptual and patch-based loss functions are employed in training both modules. The performance of the new framework was compared with that of existing methods, (filtered backprojection (FBP) and ordered subset expectation maximisation (OSEM) without and with point spread function (OSEM-PSF)) with respect to correction for attenuation, patient motion and noise in simulated, NEMA phantom and human imaging data. Evaluation metrics included structural similarity (SSIM), peak-signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), relative root mean squared error (rRMSE) for simulated data, and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) for NEMA phantom and human data.

Results

For simulated test data, the performance of the proposed framework was both qualitatively and quantitatively superior to that of FBP and OSEM. In the presence of noise, Module 1 generated images with a SSIM of 0.48 and higher. These images exhibited coarse structures that were subsequently refined by Module 2, yielding images with an SSIM higher than 0.71 (at least 22% higher than OSEM). The proposed method was robust against noise and motion. For NEMA phantoms, it achieved higher CNR values than OSEM. For human images, the CNR in brain regions was significantly higher than that of FBP and OSEM (p < 0.05, paired t-test). The CNR of images reconstructed with OSEM-PSF was similar to those reconstructed using the proposed method.

Conclusion

The proposed image reconstruction method can produce PET images with artefact correction.
Exploring waste utilization potential: nutritional, functional and medicinal properties of oilseed cakes
Authors: Vichare Sharvary Arun , Morya Sonia
Published: August 2024

Nowadays, oilseed cakes are the by-products of oil extraction, have gained significant interest due to their wide range of nutritional, functional, and medicinal properties. The review paper is an overview of the applications of oilseed cakes across due to their nutritional and economic potential. Oilseed cakes present a valuable resource due to rich nutritional profile and potential health advantages. These by-products of oil extraction are not only abundant in proteins, fibres, and essential micronutrients but also possess functional and medicinal properties that can enhance food security and promote overall health. Their utilization in food systems support sustainable agricultural practices, waste reduction, and the development of functional foods, thereby contributing to better health outcomes and a holistic approach to wellbeing aligning with broader sustainable development goals. Overall, this paper underscores the importance of diligent exploration into the multifaceted properties of oilseed cakes, offering valuable insights into their potential applications and avenues for further research and development.
Barriers and enablers of women carers from culturally and linguistically diverse communities participating in physical activities
Authors: Kappelides Pam
Published: August 2024

Introduction

This research article presents a phenomenological evaluation of an organization working within disability and with CALD communities of a project that was supporting women carers who are newly arrived to Australia to be happier and healthier. The initiative aimed to alleviate social isolation, enhance wellbeing, and boost confidence among women from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds in Metropolitan Melbourne, Victoria.

Methods

Through a qualitative exploration of the lived experiences of participants, findings were categorized into enablers and barriers, shedding light on the outcomes of physical activity participation for these women.

Results and discussion

Enablers included improvements in health, skill development, achievement, and enhanced social interaction and support, while barriers encompassed challenges related to access, socio-cultural factors, resource availability, interpersonal dynamics, and physiological constraints. Based on these findings, recommendations are proposed to empower CALD community members in the co-development and co-delivery of future programs, fostering sustainability and community-driven engagement.
Association between antimicrobial usage and resistance on commercial broiler and layer farms in Bangladesh
Authors: Foysal Mohammad , Imam Tasneem , Das Shetu B. , Gibson Justine S. , Mahmud Rashed , Gupta Suman D. , Fournié Guillaume , Hoque Md. Ahasanul , Henning Joerg
Published: August 2024

Antimicrobial resistance has emerged as a significant health problem worldwide, including in Bangladesh, where chickens are an important protein source for human nutrition. One of the factors accelerating the development of antimicrobial resistance is the inappropriate use of antimicrobials on commercial chicken farms. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2019 on 140 commercial chicken farms in the Chattogram district of Bangladesh to investigate the association between antimicrobial use and resistance in Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. cultured from cloacal swabs of chickens and from the poultry shed environment. All E. coli and Salmonella spp. isolates were resistant to multiple antimicrobial classes, including those categorized as “Highest Priority Critically Important Antimicrobials” for human medicine. Notably, resistance was observed in E. coli isolates from farms that did not use these antimicrobial classes in the current production cycle. For example, although quinolones were not used on 43.9% of E. coli positive farms, 95.7% of these farms had quinolone-resistant E. coli isolates. The results of the path analysis revealed that there was a “direct effect” of the frequency of antimicrobial usage on “high” resistance, with resistance increasing when antimicrobials were administered more frequently (β = 0.28, p = 0.002). There was a “direct effect” of the purpose of antimicrobial use on “low” resistance, with resistance marginally decreasing when antimicrobials were administered solely for therapeutic use (β = −0.17, p = 0.062), but increasing when they were used prophylactically. Overall, the study results could be used to educate farmers on better practices for antimicrobial administration, and to guide government agencies to update policies on antimicrobial use and resistance surveillance in the poultry sector of Bangladesh.
Bioactivity-guided isolation of potential antidiarrheal constituents from Euphorbia hirta L. and molecular docking evaluation
Authors: Wu Junkai , Zhang Xiaomeng , Guo Liyang , Sheng Zunlai
Published: August 2024

Background

Euphorbia hirta L., a member of the Euphorbiaceae family, is extensively used as a folk medicine across various regions. In China, its decoction is traditionally consumed to alleviate diarrhea. This study aimed to evaluate the antidiarrheal activities of Euphorbia hirta and to identify its bioactive constituents through a bioactivity-guided isolation technique.

Methods

Oral administration of E. hirta extract to mice was conducted to assess its effects on diarrhea. The anti-diarrheal effects were investigated in an aqueous extract and in three fractions of varying polarities derived from the aqueous extract, as well as in different eluates from D-101 macroporous resin, and in the compounds quercitrin and isoquercitrin, using mouse models with castor oil-induced diarrhea.

Results

The aqueous extract demonstrated significant anti-diarrheal activities in a dose-dependent manner in the castor oil-induced diarrheal model. Notably, the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) fraction showed prominent effects. Through bioactivity-guided isolation, two major compounds, isoquercitrin and quercitrin from the active fraction were found to possess antidiarrheal effects. Molecular docking studies revealed that the affinity energy of isoquercitrin and quercitrin were −8.5 and −8.2 kcal mol−1, respectively, which were comparable to the reference drug loperamide, with an affinity energy of −9.1 kcal mol−1.

Conclusion

This research provides evidence supporting the development of E. hirta as a therapeutic agent for diarrhea, with isoquercitrin and quercitrin emerging as two key constituents that are likely responsible for its antidiarrheal activity. These findings validate the traditional use of E. hirta and highlight its potential as a natural treatment for diarrhea.
Case report: One-stage craniectomy and cranioplasty digital workflow for three-dimensional printed polyetheretherketone implant for an extensive skull multilobular osteochondosarcoma in a dog
Authors: Hobert Marc , Sharma Neha , Benzimra Caroline , Hinden Sandro , Oevermann Anna , Maintz Michaela , Beyer Michel , Thieringer Florian , Guevar Julien
Published: August 2024

Objective

To report a digital workflow for use and long-term outcome of cranioplasty with a 3D-printed patient-specific Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) implant in a 12-y-old German Shepherd dog after surgical removal of an extensive occipital bone multilobular osteochondrosarcoma (MLO).

Study design

Retrospective case report.

Animal

A 12-year-old neutered female German Shepherd dog was presented with facial deformity, blindness, tetraparesis, and ataxia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) identified a large skull-based mass extending extra-and intracranially with severe compression of the cerebellum and occipital lobes of the cerebrum.

Methods

One-stage decompressive craniectomy using virtual surgical planned 3D-printed craniotomy cutting guides and the Misonix BoneScalpel® and reconstruction with a patient-specific 3D-printed PEEK cranial implant.

Results

3D-printed craniectomy cutting guides allowed an adequate fit of the cranial implant to the original skull. Misonix BoneScalpel® allowed performing a safe and extensive craniectomy. Postoperative CT (8 weeks after surgery) confirmed the PEEK cranial implant to be in place and without implant rejection. Clinically, the neurological examination identified only a right-hind limb delay in proprioception 8 weeks postoperatively, which remained unchanged at 18 months after surgery. Adjunctive treatment included metronomic chemotherapy. Eighteen months after surgery the dog passed away for reasons unrelated to the MLO, no implant-related complications were reported.

Conclusion

3D-printed craniectomy cutting guides, patient-specific PEEK cranial implant, and metronomic chemotherapy can lead to a successful long-term outcome in dogs with extensive skull MLO.

Clinical significance

PEEK is an alternative biomaterial that can be used successfully for skull reconstruction.
Semi-automated analysis of HER2 immunohistochemistry in invasive breast carcinoma using whole slide images: utility for interpretation in clinical practice
Authors: Liao Chiu-Hsiang Connie , Bakoglu Nilay , Cesmecioglu Emine , Hanna Matthew , Pareja Fresia , Wen Hannah Y. , D’Alfonso Timothy M. , Brogi Edi , Yagi Yukako , Ross Dara S.
Published: August 2024

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) gene amplification and subsequent protein overexpression is a strong prognostic and predictive biomarker in invasive breast carcinoma (IBC). ASCO/CAP recommended tests for HER2 assessment include immunohistochemistry (IHC) and/or in situ hybridization (ISH). Accurate HER2 IHC scoring (0, 1+, 2+, 3+) is key for appropriate classification and treatment of IBC. HER2-targeted therapies, including anti-HER2 monoclonal antibodies and antibody drug conjugates (ADC), have revolutionized the treatment of HER2-positive IBC. Recently, ADC have also been approved for treatment of HER2-low (IHC 1+, IHC 2+/ISH-) advanced breast carcinoma, making a distinction between IHC 0 and 1+ crucial. In this focused study, 32 IBC with HER2 IHC scores from 0 to 3+ and HER2 FISH results formed a calibration dataset, and 77 IBC with HER2 IHC score 2+ and paired FISH results (27 amplified, 50 non-amplified) formed a validation dataset. H&E and HER2 IHC whole slide images (WSI) were scanned. Regions of interest were manually annotated and IHC scores generated by the software QuantCenter (MembraneQuant application) by 3DHISTECH Ltd. (Budapest, Hungary) and compared to the microscopic IHC score. H-scores [(3×%IHC3+) +(2×%IHC2+) +(1×%IHC1+)] were calculated for semi-automated (MembraneQuant) analysis. Concordance between microscopic IHC scoring and 3DHISTECH MembraneQuant semi-automated scoring in the calibration dataset showed a Kappa value of 0.77 (standard error 0.09). Microscopic IHC and MembraneQuant image analysis for the detection of HER2 amplification yielded a sensitivity of 100% for both and a specificity of 56% and 61%, respectively. In the validation set of IHC 2+ cases, only 13 of 77 cases (17%) had discordant results between microscopic and MembraneQuant images, and various artifacts limiting the interpretation of HER2 IHC, including cytoplasmic/granular staining and crush artifact were noted. Semi-automated analysis using WSI and microscopic evaluation yielded similar HER2 IHC scores, demonstrating the potential utility of this tool for interpretation in clinical practice and subsequent accurate treatment. In this study, it was shown that semi-automatic HER2 IHC interpretation provides an objective approach to a test known to be quite subjective.
Improved Tomato Leaf Disease Recognition Based on the YOLOv5m with Various Soft Attention Module Combinations
Authors: Lee Yong-Suk , Patil Maheshkumar Prakash , Kim Jeong Gyu , Choi Seong Seok , Seo Yong Bae , Kim Gun-Do
Published: August 2024

To reduce production costs, environmental effects, and crop losses, tomato leaf disease recognition must be accurate and fast. Early diagnosis and treatment are necessary to cure and control illnesses and ensure tomato output and quality. The YOLOv5m was improved by using C3NN modules and Bidirectional Feature Pyramid Network (BiFPN) architecture. The C3NN modules were designed by integrating several soft attention modules into the C3 module: the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM), Squeeze and Excitation Network (SE), Efficient Channel Attention (ECA), and Coordinate Attention (CA). The C3 modules in the Backbone and Head of YOLOv5 model were replaced with the C3NN to improve feature representation and object detection accuracy. The BiFPN architecture was implemented in the Neck of the YOLOv5 model to effectively merge multi-scale features and improve the accuracy of object detection. Among the various combinations for the improved YOLOv5m model, the C3ECA-BiFPN-C3ECA-YOLOv5m achieved a precision (P) of 87.764%, a recall (R) of 87.201%, an F1 of 87.482, an mAP.5 of 90.401%, and an mAP.5:.95 of 68.803%. In comparison with the YOLOv5m and Faster-RCNN models, the improved models showed improvement in P by 1.36% and 7.80%, R by 4.99% and 5.51%, F1 by 3.18% and 6.86%, mAP.5 by 1.74% and 2.90%, and mAP.5:.95 by 3.26% and 4.84%, respectively. These results demonstrate that the improved models have effective tomato leaf disease recognition capabilities and are expected to contribute significantly to the development of plant disease detection technology.
Effects of Entrepreneurial Activities on Rural Revitalization: Based on Dissipative Structure Theory
Authors: Deng Jinqian , Chi Huiling , Zhang Tiantian
Published: August 2024

Entrepreneurial activities are crucial for activating the endogenous power of the countryside, promoting integrated urban and rural development, and achieving comprehensive rural revitalization. This paper empirically examines the mechanisms through which entrepreneurial activities influence rural revitalization by incorporating the theory of dissipative structures into the research paradigm of rural revitalization. Using interdisciplinary analysis methods, it deeply analyzes the underlying logic of entrepreneurial activities affecting rural revitalization, relying on panel data from 2045 counties from 2011 to 2020. The study finds that entrepreneurial activities attract negative entropy flows, such as information and materials, into the rural revitalization system by increasing employment opportunities and promoting capital agglomeration. This fosters a stable and orderly dissipative structure within the system, thereby empowering comprehensive rural revitalization. The heterogeneity test indicates that the promotion effect of entrepreneurial activities on rural revitalization is more pronounced in the eastern region and non-e-commerce demonstration counties. Further research reveals that the facilitating effect of entrepreneurial activities on the rural revitalization system is particularly evident in four dimensions: ecological viability, a civilized rural culture, effective governance, and an affluent life. This study provides theoretical and empirical support for implementing the rural revitalization strategy in China.
Near-Infrared-Based Measurement Method of Mass Flow Rate in Grain Vibration Feeding System
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Zhao Zhan , Li Xinyu , Xue Zhen , Jin Mingzhi , Deng Boyu
Published: August 2024

The radial distribution of material feeding onto a screen surface is an important factor affecting vibration screening performance, and it is also the main basis for the optimization of the operating parameters of a vibration screening system. In this paper, based on near-infrared properties, a real-time measurement method for the mass flow rate of grain vibration feeding was proposed. A laser emitter and a silicon photocell were used as the measuring components, and the corresponding signal processing circuit mainly composed of a T-type I/V convertor, a voltage follower, a low-pass filter, and a setting circuit in series was designed. Calibration test results showed that the relationship between grain mass flow rate and output voltage could be described using the Gaussian regression model, and the coefficient of determination was greater than 0.98. According to the working principle of the grain cleaning system of combine harvesters, the dynamic characteristics of grain vibration feeding were analyzed using discrete element method (DEM) simulations, and the monitoring range of the sensor was determined. Finally, grain mass flow rate measurement tests were carried out on a vibration feeding test rig. The results indicated that the grain mass measurement error could be controlled within 5.0% with the average grain mass flow rate in the range of 3.0–5.0 g/mm·s. The proposed measurement method has potential application value in the uniform feeding control systems of vibration feeders.
Effects of Composted Straw, Biochar, and Polyacrylamide Addition on Soil Permeability and Dynamic Leaching Characteristics of Pollutants in Loessial Soil in Urban Greenbelts According to Indoor Simulation Experiments
Authors: Wang Chenguang , Zhao Yikai , Hao Shan , Chen Jiayong , Chen Shao , Liu Jiaojiao , Liu Helei , Zhu Xinyu , Li Xueyan , Zhang Afeng
Published: August 2024

Urban greenbelt soil is currently severely degraded and unable to meet the needs of sponge city construction. Therefore, this study involved adding modified materials, such as decomposed straw, straw biochar, and PAM (polyacrylamide), to greenbelt soil (collected from the Xixian New Area, a pilot city for sponge city construction in China). This study was conducted to explore the effects of adding modified materials on soil physical properties and pollutant adsorption capacity through indoor simulation experiments and dynamic leaching experiments (in the dynamic leaching experiments, the medium thickness was 40 cm, and a water outlet was set every 10 cm to collect the filtrate). In this study, three experimental treatments were set up: (1) soil–sand–decomposed straw + PAM (SSJ), (2) soil–sand–biochar + PAM (SSB), and (3) soil–sand–decomposed straw–biochar + PAM (SSBJ). In the three treatments, the addition amounts of soil, sand, and PAM (0.01 g·mL−1) were constant at 560 kg·m−3, 624 kg·m−3, and 76 L·m−3, respectively. The addition amounts of decomposed straw in the SSJ and SSBJ treatments were 100 kg·m−3 and 50 kg·m−3, respectively. The amounts of added biochar in the SSJ and SSBJ treatments were 32 kg·m−3 and 16 kg·m−3, respectively. The saturated hydraulic conductivity and saturated water content of the different treatments increased by 92.90–107.10% and 19.07–32.17%, respectively, compared with the background values. As the depth increased, the leaching concentrations of N and COD (chemical oxygen demand) at 40 cm in the different treatments increased by 282.66–1374.02% and 435.10–455.84%, respectively, compared with those at 10 cm. However, the leaching concentrations of Cu, Zn, Cd, and P changed little with increasing depth. As the flow load increased, the leaching concentration of the pollutant pattern was not obvious. After the leaching of pollutants stabilized, at 40 cm, the leaching concentrations of N, P, and COD for the SSJ, SSBJ, and SSB treatments were 5.46–56.30 mg·L−1, 0.14–2.06 mg·L−1, and 1034.23–1531.40 mg·L−1, respectively. The retention rates of Cu, Zn, and Cd showed a small trend over time, and the retention rates were all above 86%. Overall, the SSB treatment had a strong ability to intercept N, P, and COD, whereas the SSBJ treatment had a strong ability to intercept Cu, Zn, and Cd. These research results can provide a reference for the improvement of greenbelts in sponge city construction.
Enhancing Service Quality—A Customer Opinion Assessment in Water Laboratories through Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Vicente Henrique , Fernandes Ana , Neves José , Figueiredo Margarida
Published: August 2024

Existing literature presents multiple perspectives on quality within organizational contexts. Although these perspectives may differ, they universally emphasize the importance of meeting customer expectations regarding products/services. Consequently, organizations are dedicated to addressing customer requirements to foster elevated satisfaction levels. This study aims to assess customer satisfaction in water laboratories and develop a predictive model using artificial neural networks to improve service quality. A methodology was devised, integrating principles from thermodynamics with logic programming for knowledge representation and reasoning. Data were collected from 412 participants of both genders, aged 22 to 79 years old, using a questionnaire covering six specific areas, i.e., customer service, quality of service provided, support documentation, technical support, billing and payment, and online services and tools. While customer opinions were largely positive, the study identified areas for improvement, including clarity and effectiveness in responses to inquiries, reliability of results, clarity of analysis reports, usefulness of test interpretation guidelines, inclusion of legal information, billing options, and online services. Differences in satisfaction were noted based on socio-demographic factors such as age and academic qualifications. The findings offer a framework (an ANN-based model) for future evaluations and improvements in services, highlighting the importance of addressing specific customer needs to enhance satisfaction.
Properties of Zirconia, Lithium Disilicate Glass Ceramics, and VITA ENAMIC® Hybrid Ceramic Dental Materials Following Ultra-Short Femtosecond (30 fs) Laser Irradiation
Authors: Lagunov Victor L. , Ali Bakhtiar , Walsh Laurence J. , Cameron Andrew B. , Litvinyuk Igor V. , Rybachuk Maksym , George Roy
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the dose-dependent changes in the chemical composition of three dental ceramic materials—zirconia, lithium disilicate (LD), and VITA ENAMIC® hybrid composite (VITA En)—following irradiation with an ultra-short femtosecond (fs) laser (800 nm, 30 fs, 1 kHz) in an ambient air environment using average laser power (76 mW) and scanning speeds (50, 100, and 200 mm/s), simulating dental treatment processes. The chemical composition of the ablated regions was analyzed using energy dispersive spectroscopy. All irradiated samples showed increased carbon content (by up to 42%) and reduced oxygen (by up to 33%). The observed increase in C content is likely attributed to a combination of surface reactions, adsorption of carbon from the ambient environment, and carbon deposition from the laser-induced plasma, all facilitated by the high-energy conditions created by fs-laser pulses. Scanning electron microscopy revealed ablation with progressive controlled melting and recrystallization, with an absence of pile-up features typically associated with significant thermal damage. These findings demonstrate that ultra-short fs-laser irradiation induces highly controlled, dose-dependent changes in the chemical composition and surface morphology of dental ceramic materials.
Reinforcement-Learning-Based Path Planning: A Reward Function Strategy
Authors: Jaramillo-Martínez Ramón , Chavero-Navarrete Ernesto , Ibarra-Pérez Teodoro
Published: August 2024

Path planning is a fundamental task for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). Classic approaches provide an analytical solution by searching for the trajectory with the shortest distance; however, reinforcement learning (RL) techniques have been proven to be effective in solving these problems with the experiences gained by agents in real time. This study proposes a reward function that motivates an agent to select the shortest path with fewer turns. The solution to the RL technique is obtained via dynamic programming and Deep Q-Learning methods. In addition, a path-tracking control design is proposed based on the Lyapunov candidate function. The results indicate that RL algorithms show superior performance compared to classic A* algorithms. The number of turns is reduced by 50%, resulting in a decrease in the total distance ranging from 3.2% to 36%.
A Physics-Informed Neural Network Based on the Boltzmann Equation with Multiple-Relaxation-Time Collision Operators
Authors: Liu Zhixiang , Zhang Chenkai , Zhu Wenhao , Huang Dongmei
Published: August 2024

The Boltzmann equation with multiple-relaxation-time (MRT) collision operators has been widely employed in kinetic theory to describe the behavior of gases and liquids at the macro-level. Given the successful development of deep learning and the availability of data analytic tools, it is a feasible idea to try to solve the Boltzmann-MRT equation using a neural network-based method. Based on the canonical polyadic decomposition, a new physics-informed neural network describing the Boltzmann-MRT equation, named the network for MRT collision (NMRT), is proposed in this paper for solving the Boltzmann-MRT equation. The method of tensor decomposition in the Boltzmann-MRT equation is utilized to combine the collision matrix with discrete distribution functions within the moment space. Multiscale modeling is adopted to accelerate the convergence of high frequencies for the equations. The micro–macro decomposition method is applied to improve learning efficiency. The problem-dependent loss function is proposed to balance the weight of the function for different conditions at different velocities. These strategies will greatly improve the accuracy of the network. The numerical experiments are tested, including the advection–diffusion problem and the wave propagation problem. The results of the numerical simulation show that the network-based method can obtain a measure of accuracy at O10−3.
Segmentation of Heart Sound Signal Based on Multi-Scale Feature Fusion and Multi-Classification of Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Zeng Yuan , Li Mingzhe , He Zhaoming , Zhou Ling
Published: August 2024

Analyzing heart sound signals presents a novel approach for early diagnosis of pediatric congenital heart disease. The existing segmentation algorithms have limitations in accurately distinguishing the first (S1) and second (S2) heart sounds, limiting the diagnostic utility of cardiac cycle data for pediatric pathology assessment. This study proposes a time bidirectional long short-term memory network (TBLSTM) based on multi-scale analysis to segment pediatric heart sound signals according to different cardiac cycles. Mel frequency cepstral coefficients and dynamic characteristics of the heart sound fragments were extracted and input into random forest for multi-classification of congenital heart disease. The segmentation model achieved an overall F1 score of 94.15% on the verification set, with specific F1 scores of 90.25% for S1 and 86.04% for S2. In a situation where the number of cardiac cycles in the heart sound fragments was set to six, the results for multi-classification achieved stabilization. The performance metrics for this configuration were as follows: accuracy of 94.43%, sensitivity of 95.58%, and an F1 score of 94.51%. Furthermore, the segmentation model demonstrates robustness in accurately segmenting pediatric heart sound signals across different heart rates and in the presence of noise. Notably, the number of cardiac cycles in heart sound fragments directly impacts the multi-classification of these heart sound signals.
Agricultural and Ecological Resources Safeguarded by the Prevention of Wild Pig Population Expansion
Authors: Jareb Colin , Pepin Kim M. , Miller Ryan S. , Sykora Sarah , Shwiff Stephanie A. , McKee Sophie C.
Published: August 2024

Wild pigs (Sus scrofa) are one of the most destructive invasive species in the US, known for causing extensive damage to agricultural commodities, natural resources, and property, and for transmitting diseases to livestock. Following the establishment of the National Feral Swine Damage Management Program (NFSDMP) in 2014, the expansion of wild pig populations has been successfully slowed. This paper combines two modeling approaches across eight separate models to characterize the expansion of wild pig populations in the absence of intervention by the NFSDMP and forecasts the value of a subset of resources safeguarded from the threat of wild pigs. The results indicate that if wild pigs had continued spreading at pre-program levels, they would have spread extensively across the US, with significant geographic variation across modeling scenarios. Further, by averting the threat of wild pigs, a substantial amount of crops, land, property, and livestock was safeguarded by the NFSDMP. Cumulatively, between 2014 and 2021, wild pig populations were prevented from spreading to an average of 724 counties and an average of USD 40.2 billion in field crops, pasture, grasses, and hay was safeguarded. The results demonstrate that intervention by the NFSDMP has delivered significant ecological and economic benefits that were not previously known.
Cell-Free Extracts of the Ginseng Soil Bacterium Pseudomonas plecoglossicida Promote Suppression of Resistance of American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) to Root Rot Caused by Ilyonectria mors-panacis
Authors: Goodwin Paul H. , Hsiang Tom
Published: August 2024

A prior report showed that soil previously planted with American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) contained compound(s) which could reduce ginseng resistance to root infection by Ilyonectria mors-panacis, and this was not found in extracts from ginseng roots or soils not previously planted with ginseng. However, the origin of this ginseng-related factor in ginseng soils is unknown. An isolate of Pseudomonas plecoglossicida obtained from soil where P. quinquefolius had been harvested grew more in culture media when ginseng root extract was included, indicating the use of compounds in the extract as nutrients. Treatment with cell-free extracts from media containing ginseng root extracts where P. plecoglossicida had been cultured resulted in root lesions caused by I. mors-panacis being significantly larger than roots treated with fresh media containing root extract or with cell-free media inoculated with the same bacterial isolate without root extract. Levels of ginsenosides in the media decreased over time with incubation. Genome sequencing revealed that the bacterium had genes homologous to those reported for ginsenoside metabolism, which can release sugars for microbial growth. Thus, a ginseng soil bacterium, P. plecoglossicida, can create compound(s) suppressive to root rot resistance, similar to that found in soils previously planted with ginseng, indicating that the activity suppressing root rot resistance in soil previously planted with ginseng may be of microbial origin, utilizing compounds from ginseng roots.
Advances in Computational Intelligence-Based Methods of Structure and Function Prediction of Proteins
Authors: Zhang Jian , Qian Jingjing
Published: August 2024

Proteins serve as the building blocks of life and play essential roles in almost every cellular process [...]
HIV-1 Gag Polyprotein Affinity to the Lipid Membrane Is Independent of Its Surface Charge
Authors: Denieva Zaret G. , Sokolov Valerij S. , Batishchev Oleg V.
Published: August 2024

The binding of the HIV-1 Gag polyprotein to the plasma membrane is a critical step in viral replication. The association with membranes depends on the lipid composition, but its mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we report the binding of non-myristoylated Gag to lipid membranes of different lipid compositions to dissect the influence of each component. We tested the contribution of phosphatidylserine, PI(4,5)P2, and cholesterol to membrane charge density and Gag affinity to membranes. Taking into account the influence of the membrane surface potential, we quantitatively characterized the adsorption of the protein onto model lipid membranes. The obtained Gag binding constants appeared to be the same regardless of the membrane charge. Furthermore, Gag adsorbed on uncharged membranes, suggesting a contribution of hydrophobic forces to the protein–lipid interaction. Charge–charge interactions resulted in an increase in protein concentration near the membrane surface. Lipid-specific interactions were observed in the presence of cholesterol, resulting in a two-fold increase in binding constants. The combination of cholesterol with PI(4,5)P2 showed cooperative effects on protein adsorption. Thus, we suggest that the affinity of Gag to lipid membranes results from a combination of electrostatic attraction to acidic lipids, providing different protein concentrations near the membrane surface, and specific hydrophobic interactions.
Anti-Allergic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Lidocaine-Derived Organic Compounds in a House Dust Mite-Induced Allergic Rhinitis Mouse Model
Authors: Shin Seung-Heon , Ye Mi-Kyung , Chae Mi-Hyun , Geum Sang-Yen , Aboraia Ahmed S. , Abdel-Aal Abu-Baker M. , Qayed Wesam S. , El-wahab Hend A. A. Abd , Abou-Ghadir Ola F. , Aboul-Fadl Tarek
Published: August 2024

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common chronic disease that significantly impacts the quality of life. Lidocaine is known to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. This study evaluated the effect of lidocaine analogs in a Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (DP)-induced AR mouse model. An AR model was developed using BALB/c mice via intraperitoneal sensitization with DP and intranasal challenge with DP. One hour before stimulation with DP, lidocaine analogs, EI137 and EI341 (at a dose of 0.5 or 5 ug/g), were administered intranasally. Nasal symptoms and serum total IgE, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, interferon (IFN)-γ, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels were evaluated. Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to determine IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-γ, as well as the expression of their mRNA transcription factors in the sinonasal mucosa. Histologic changes were evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin and periodic acid–Schiff staining. The DP-induced AR mouse model had increased serum levels of total IgE and cytokines. EI137 and EI341 significantly suppressed the levels of total IgE, IL-4, and TNF-α. Intranasal instillation of EI137 and EI341 significantly inhibited IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-γ mRNA expression, as well as inflammatory cells and mucus-producing goblet cells. Lidocaine analogs also suppressed DP-stimulated IL-4, IFN-γ, and IFN-γ production by splenocytes. Intranasal instillation of EI137 and EI341 exhibited anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects, influenced by Th1 and Th2 inflammatory cytokines. These lidocaine analogs suppressed DP-induced sinonasal mucosal inflammation, inflammatory cell infiltration, and mucus hypersecretion.
Consideration of Thermal Comfort, Daylighting Comfort, and Life-Cycle Decarbonization in the Retrofit of Kindergarten Buildings in China: A Case Study
Authors: Hu Kai , Xu Chao , Li Wenjun , Ye Jing , Yang Yankai , Xu Yizhe
Published: August 2024

Kindergartens play a crucial role in nurturing the physical, cognitive, and social development of children. Hence, designing kindergarten buildings requires the consideration of the unique requirements and behavior of children. Considering the rapid urbanization of China and its commitment to achieving the 3060 carbon goal, in this study, we examine the retrofitting of kindergarten buildings in China and propose a retrofit optimization method for kindergarten buildings that considers thermal comfort, daylighting, and life-cycle carbon emissions. Through this method, information on the thermal and daylighting comfort of occupants, weather data, occupant scheduling, and envelope and energy system of the kindergarten building to be retrofitted can be obtained through various approaches, such as video playback, field investigation, literature research, and consult drawings. On this basis, optimization variables are selected, and a physical model is established to guide the retrofit process. Afterward, a rapid comprehensive optimization framework based on parallel computing is adopted to obtain the comprehensive optimal design scheme for the building to be retrofitted. The proposed method is applied to a kindergarten building retrofit case in Nanjing, China, and the results show that the optimal comprehensive scheme results in a reduction in carbon emissions of 34,158.3 kg, an increase in the thermal comfort period of 2.7%, and an improvement in daylighting comfort of 79.7% over the benchmark scheme. The significance of this study extends beyond its potential for widespread application in kindergarten building retrofits. It contributes to advancing sustainable building design and environmental stewardship, creating healthier and more comfortable learning environments for children while mitigating the environmental impact of buildings. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of considering children’s unique needs and behaviors in building design, ultimately leading to better outcomes for their overall development.
Rheological Behavior of an Algerian Natural Kaolin: Effect of Dispersant
Authors: Chargui Fouzia , Hamidouche Mohamed , Louahdi Rachid , Fantozzi Gilbert
Published: August 2024

This work presents the study of the rheology ical behavior of Algerian kaolin (DD1) suspensions considering two types of electro-steric dispersants (Hypermer KD1 and Darvan 7) and the evaluation of their effectiveness at neutral pH. The results showed that Darvan 7 exhibits electro-steric behavior at neutral pH, whereas KD1 exhibits purely steric behavior. The addition of a dispersant strongly influenced the rheological behavior of kaolin suspensions. The DD1 suspensions without dispersant exhibited fluidifying plastic behavior (Casson model). The shear stresses decreased significantly with the addition of dispersant, while the significant decrease in viscosity indicated that the dispersant reduced the strength of the particle networks that make up the slurry. The suspensions with 1 wt.% dispersant were consistent with the Bingham model, with a very low yield point. The viscosity of the dispersion reached a minimum when the concentration of the dispersant was 1 wt.%. This value was lower with Darvan 7. The addition of aluminum slag as a source of alumina to KD1 increased its efficiency and lowered the viscosity of the kaolin suspensions.
Pediatric Post-Pump Chorea: Case Report and Implications for Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Rossi Elisa , Strano Concetta , Cortesia Ilaria , Torta Francesca , Davitto Bava Mirella , Tardivo Irene , Spada Marco
Published: August 2024

Background: Chorea is a neurological disorder characterized by random, fluid movements that may affect the limbs, trunk, neck, or face. In children, Sydenham’s chorea (SC) is the most common cause of acute chorea, mainly following group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal (GABHS) infection. Other autoimmune and metabolic disorders may also cause chorea. Case presentation: We report the case of a 6-year-old girl who developed chorea following cardiac surgery for mitral insufficiency. One week after discharge, the patient presented with right-sided hyposthenia, slower speech, mild dysarthria, and sialorrhea. Brain MRI and intracranial MRI angiography revealed a small vascular lesion consistent with a microembolic event. Extensive diagnostic investigations, including serum panels for autoimmune encephalitis, neurotropic viruses, and metabolic disorders, were negative. Conclusions: Considering the patient’s history, clinical course, and the exclusion of other potential causes, a diagnosis of post-pump chorea was made. This case underlines the importance of a thorough differential diagnosis in pediatric chorea and highlights post-pump chorea as a significant postoperative complication in pediatric cardiac surgery. The patient’s motor symptoms improved with symptomatic treatment, and follow-up showed good recovery without neurological sequelae.
Correction: Wang, X.; Du, Y. Fault Diagnosis of Wind Turbine Gearbox Based on Modified Hierarchical Fluctuation Dispersion Entropy of Tan-Sigmoid Mapping. Entropy 2024, 26, 507
Authors: Wang Xiang , Du Yang
Published: August 2024

In the original publication [...]
Wilberforce-like Larmor Magnetic Moment and Spin Precession
Authors: Márkus Ferenc , Gambár Katalin
Published: August 2024

In a Wilberforce pendulum, two mechanical oscillators are coupled: one pertains to the longitudinal (tension) motion and the other to the rotational (twisting) motion. It is shown that the longitudinal magnetic moment of circular currents, and similarly the magnetic moment of a spin-chain, can exhibit a Wilberforce-like vibration. The longitudinal oscillation is related to the Langevin diamagnetism, while the twisting motion is superimposed on the magnetic moment and spin precession. The calculations show that the coupling term is nonlinear in this (longitudinal) vibrating and (magnetic moment) precession system. By increasing the strength of the coupling we arrive at a spectrum, where further vibrational modes can be associated with the rotation of the precession. This means that the extent of the change in coherence can be demonstrated. Since the coupling strength can be different due to local effects, this can be an important factor from the point of view of signal propagation and in preserving signal shapes. The amount specifying the dissipation is introduced to express the degree of deviation. A relationship exists between the parameter characteristic of the coupling strength and how its quantity influences decoherence and dissipation.
Study on Novel Schottky Contact Super Barrier Rectifier with Deep Isolated MOS Trench in Epitaxial N-Drift Layer
Authors: Zhu Kunfeng , Chen Wensuo , Huang Jiaweiwen , Yu Qisheng , Li Jian
Published: August 2024

In this paper, a novel 120 V-class silicon Schottky contact super barrier rectifier with a deep isolated MOS trench in an epitaxial n-drift layer (DOT-SSBR) is studied through experiments, featuring the deep isolated MOS trenches (DOTs) in an epitaxial layer compared with conventional SSBR. The combination of SSBR and DOT obviously increase the breakdown voltage while preserving the significant advantages of SSBR. The pinching-off electric field effect by the DOTs in the epitaxial n-drift layer increases the average of electric field inside the drift layer and decreases the electric field on the mesa surface when the proposed DOT-SSBR is reversely biased. After the further optimization of the Schottky contact super barrier (SSB) parameters on mesa, the proposed DOT-SSBR maintains almost the same forward voltage, reduces the reverse leakage current at the reverse voltage of 50 V by approximately 10.0%, and greatly increases the breakdown voltage by approximately 38.6%, when compared with the conventional SSBR. The fabrication process, the measured high-temperature characteristics of forward I-V curves and reverse leakage current, and the measured reverse recovery current of the new device are also presented. An auxiliary simulation analysis to provide insight about the physics of the device is also presented.
Schottky Barrier Formation Mechanism and Thermal Stability in Au-Free Cu/Metal–Silicide Contacts to GaN-Cap/AlGaN/AlN-Spacer/GaN-on-Si Heterostructure
Authors: Wzorek Marek , Ekielski Marek , Piskorski Krzysztof , Tarenko Jarosław , Borysiewicz Michał A. , Brzozowski Ernest , Taube Andrzej
Published: August 2024

In this study, metal–silicide-based contacts to GaN-cap/AlGaN/AlN-spacer/GaN-on-Si heterostructure were investigated. Planar Schottky diodes with Cu-covered anodes comprising silicide layers of various metal–silicon (M–Si) compositions were fabricated and characterized in terms of their electrical parameters and thermal stability. The investigated contacts included Ti–Si, Ta–Si, Co–Si, Ni–Si, Pd–Si, Ir–Si, and Pt–Si layers. Reference diodes with pure Cu or Au/Ni anodes were also examined. To test the thermal stability, selected devices were subjected to subsequent annealing steps in vacuum at incremental temperatures up to 900 °C. The Cu/M–Si anodes showed significantly better thermal stability than the single-layer Cu contact, and in most cases exceeded the stability of the reference Au/Ni contact. The work functions of the sputtered thin layers were determined to support the discussion of the formation mechanism of the Schottky barrier. It was concluded that the barrier heights were dependent on the M–Si composition, although they were not dependent on the work function of the layers. An extended, unified Schottky barrier formation model served as the basis for explaining the complex electrical behavior of the devices under investigation.