bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dehydration of Isopropanol over Silica-Supported Heteropoly Acids
Authors: Alasmari Amal , Kozhevnikova Elena F. , Kozhevnikov Ivan V.
Published: January 2024

Dehydration of i-PrOH is used in academic research as a test reaction to probe the acid properties of solid acid catalysts. Also, it has practical importance for the utilization of surplus acetone produced by the Hock process for the combined manufacturing of phenol and acetone as well as for the production of propene from renewable resources and waste. This study demonstrates the excellent performance of polyoxometalate acid catalysts comprising silica-supported Keggin-type heteropoly acids H3PW12O40 and H4SiW12O40 for gas-phase i-PrOH-to-propene dehydration at ambient pressure. These catalysts show similar efficacies, giving an i-PrOH conversion and propene selectivity of 96.8 and 99.7% for 25%HPW/SiO2 and 97.1 and 99.4% for 25%HSiW/SiO2 in a fixed-bed reactor at 120 °C, a relevant-to-practice i-PrOH partial pressure of 15 kPa and a contact time W/F = 27 g h mol−1 (GHSV = 900 mL g−1 h−1). The catalysts are stable, resisting deactivation for at least 24 h time on stream. The HPA/SiO2 catalysts are superior to aluminosilicate zeolites such as H-mordenite, HZSM-5 and HY for i-PrOH-to-propene dehydration in terms of i-PrOH conversion, propene selectivity and catalyst stability.
A Kinetic Model of Furfural Hydrogenation to 2-Methylfuran on Nanoparticles of Nickel Supported on Sulfuric Acid-Modified Biochar Catalyst
Authors: Mudi Ismaila , Hart Abarasi , Ingram Andrew , Wood Joseph
Published: January 2024

Lignocellulosic biomass can uptake CO2 during growth, which can then be pyrolysed into three major products, biochar (BC), syngas, and bio-oil. Due to the presence of oxygenated organic compounds, the produced bio-oil is not suitable for direct use as a fuel and requires upgrading via hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) and hydrogenation. This is typically carried out over a supported metal catalyst. Regarding circular economy and sustainability, the BC from the pyrolysis step can potentially be activated and used as a novel catalyst support, as reported here. A 15 wt% Ni/BC catalyst was developed by chemically modifying BC with sulfuric acid to improve mesoporous structure and surface area. When compared to the pristine Ni/BC catalyst, sulfuric activated Ni/BC catalyst has excellent mesopores and a high surface area, which increases the dispersion of Ni nanoparticles and hence improves the adsorptive effect and thus catalytic performance. A liquid phase hydrogenation of furfural to 2-methylfuran was performed over the developed 15 wt% Ni/BC catalyst. Langmuir–Hinshelwood–Hougen–Watson (LHHW) kinetic type models for adsorption of dissociative H2 were screened based on an R2 value greater than 99%, demonstrating that the experimental data satisfactorily fit to three plausible models: competitive (Model I), competitive at only one type of adsorption site (Model II), and non-competitive with two types of adsorption sites (Model III). With a correlation coefficient greater than 99% between the experimental rates and the predicted rate, Model III, which is a dual-site adsorption mechanism involving furfural adsorption and hydrogen dissociative adsorption and surface reaction, is the best fit. The Ni/BC catalyst demonstrated comparative performance and significant cost savings over previous catalysts; a value of 24.39 kJ mol−1 was estimated for activation energy, −11.43 kJ mol−1 for the enthalpy of adsorption for H2, and −5.86 kJ mol−1 for furfural. The developed Ni/BC catalyst demonstrated excellent stability in terms of conversion of furfural (96%) and yield of 2-methylfuran (54%) at the fourth successive experiments. Based on furfural conversion and yield of products, it appears that pores are constructed slowly during sulfuric acid activation of the biochar.
Enhancement of Macrophage Immunity against Chlamydial Infection by Natural Killer T Cells
Authors: Peng Ying , Qiao Sai , Wang Hong , Shekhar Sudhanshu , Wang Shuhe , Yang Jie , Fan Yijun , Yang Xi
Published: January 2024

Lung macrophage (LM) is vital in host defence against bacterial infections. However, the influence of other innate immune cells on its function, including the polarisation of different subpopulations, remains poorly understood. This study examined the polarisation of LM subpopulations (monocytes/undifferentiated macrophages (Mo/Mφ), interstitial macrophages (IM), and alveolar macrophages (AM)). We further assessed the effect of invariant natural killer T cells (iNKT) on LM polarisation in a protective function against Chlamydia muridarum, an obligate intracellular bacterium, and respiratory tract infection. We found a preferentially increased local Mo/Mφ and IMs with a significant shift to a type-1 macrophage (M1) phenotype and higher expression of iNOS and TNF-α. Interestingly, during the same infection, the alteration of macrophage subpopulations and the shift towards M1 was much less in iNKT KO mice. More importantly, functional testing by adoptively transferring LMs isolated from iNKT KO mice (iNKT KO-Mφ) conferred less protection than those isolated from wild-type mice (WT-Mφ). Further analyses showed significantly reduced gene expression of the JAK/STAT signalling pathway molecules in iNKT KO-Mφ. The data show an important role of iNKT in promoting LM polarisation to the M1 direction, which is functionally relevant to host defence against a human intracellular bacterial infection. The alteration of JAK/STAT signalling molecule gene expression in iNKT KO-Mφ suggests the modulating effect of iNKT is likely through the JAK/STAT pathway.
Midkine (MDK) in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: More than a Biomarker
Authors: Christou Christiana , Stylianou Andreas , Gkretsi Vasiliki
Published: January 2024

Midkine (MDK) is a multifunctional secreted protein that can act as a cytokine or growth factor regulating multiple signaling pathways and being implicated in fundamental cellular processes, such as survival, proliferation, and migration. Although its expression in normal adult tissues is barely detectable, MDK serum levels are found to be elevated in several types of cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this review, we summarize the findings of recent studies on the role of MDK in HCC diagnosis and progression. Overall, studies show that MDK is a powerful biomarker for HCC early diagnosis, as it can differentiate not only between HCC patients and normal individuals but also between HCC patients and patients with other liver pathologies. It is correlated with high recurrence rates and was shown to be valuable for the diagnosis of early-stage HCC, even in patients negative for α-fetoprotein (AFP), the most commonly used biomarker for HCC diagnosis. A comparison with AFP reveals that MDK is inferior to AFP with regard to specificity but significantly superior with regard to sensitivity, which further indicates the need for using both biomarkers for more effective HCC diagnosis.
Recent Advances in the Diagnosis and Management of Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Rao P. Syamasundar
Published: January 2024

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are structural abnormalities of the heart or blood vessels that occur while cardiac structures are being formed in utero [...]
Evaluation of Pediatric Chronic Urticaria with Emphasis on Clinical and Laboratory Characteristics and Treatment Response to Omalizumab: A Real-Life Experience from a Tertiary Allergy Center
Authors: Özhan Aylin Kont , Arıkoğlu Tuğba
Published: January 2024

Pediatric data on the clinical and etiologic features, treatment response, and use of omalizumab for chronic urticaria (CU) are quite limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and demographic characteristics, laboratory findings, and response to treatment of CU in children. Children with a diagnosis of CU between 2019 and 2023 were included in the study. Information on demographic characteristics, clinical features, laboratory tests, provocation tests for inducible urticaria, urticaria activity scores (UAS7), and treatment responses were obtained from patients’ medical records. A total of 150 children (50.7% male) with CU were enrolled in the study. A total of 14 (9.3%) patients had autoimmune diseases of which 11 (7.3%) had autoimmune thyroiditis. Overall, 97 (64.7%) patients had chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and 53 (35.3%) had chronic inducible urticaria. A total of 16 patients who remained symptomatic despite high-dose antihistamines were treated with omalizumab, with a good response in 13 (81.3%) and a partial response in 3 (18.7%) patients. CSU accounts for the majority of pediatric CU, with the etiology being in part related to an autoimmune background. This study provides an overview of CU in children and demonstrates the safety and efficacy of treatment with omalizumab.
Analysis of Blackening Reaction of Zn-Mg-Al Alloy-Coated Steel Prepared by Water Vapor Treatment
Authors: Kim Sang-Hee , Kang You-Jin , Lee Kyung-Hwang , Kang Jun , Lee Myeong-Hoon , Yun Yong-Sup
Published: January 2024

In the context of high-temperature water vapor treatment, Zn-Mg-Al alloy-coated steel sheets exhibit the emergence of a black surface. This study aims to explore the factors and mechanisms contributing to surface blackening by inducing black surfaces on Zn-Mg-Al alloy-coated steel sheets, which were fabricated through molten coating subjected to water vapor treatment at 150 degrees Celsius. The surface composition was predominantly identified as zinc oxide (ZnO) film validated through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Morphological analysis of the surface and cross-section post-water vapor treatment revealed a disrupted lamellar structure with diffused features, resulting from the formation of an oxide film. Optical properties analysis demonstrated an increased absorbance and a decreased bandgap energy after water vapor treatment, which is indicative of an augmented blackening effect. Consequently, the high-temperature water vapor treatment led to the formation of oxides on the surface with the highly reactive Mg and Al extracting oxygen from the predominantly present ZnO surface. This process resulted in the creation of an oxygen-deficient oxide, ultimately causing surface blackening.
An Experimental Study on Blade Surface De-Icing Characteristics for Wind Turbines in Rime Ice Condition by Electro-Thermal Heating
Authors: Li Xiaojuan , Chi Haodong , Li Yan , Xu Zhi , Guo Wenfeng , Feng Fang
Published: January 2024

Wind turbines in cold and humid regions face significant icing challenges. Heating is considered an efficient strategy to prevent ice accretion over the turbine’s blade surface. An ice protection system is required to minimize freezing of the runback water at the back of the blade and the melting state of the ice on the blade; the law of re-freezing of the runback water is necessary for the design of wind turbine de-icing systems. In this paper, a wind tunnel test was conducted to investigate the de-icing process of a static heated blade under various rime icing conditions. Ice shapes of different thicknesses were obtained by spraying water at 5 m/s, 10 m/s, and 15 m/s. The spray system was turned off and different heating fluxes were applied to heat the blade. The de-icing state and total energy consumption were explored. When de-icing occurred in a short freezing time, the ice layer became thin, and runback water flowed out (pattern I). With an increase in freezing time at a low wind speed, the melting ice induced by the dominant action of inertial force moved backward due to the reduction in adhesion between the ice and blade surface (pattern II). As wind speed increased, it exhibited various de-icing states, including refreezing at the trailing edge (pattern III) and ice shedding (pattern IV). The total energy consumption of ice melting decreased as the heat flux increased and the ice melting time shortened. At 5 m/s, when the heat flux was q = 14 kW/m2, the energy consumption at EA at tδ = 1 min, 5 min, and 7 min were 0.33 kJ, 0.55 kJ, and 0.61 kJ, respectively. At 10 m/s, when the heat flux was q = 14 kW/m2, the energy consumption at EA at tδ = 1 min, 3 min, and 5 min were 0.77 kJ, 0.81 kJ, and 0.80 kJ, respectively. Excessive heat flow density increased the risk of the return water freezing; thus, the reference de-icing heat fluxes of 5 m/s and 10 m/s were 10 kW/m2 and 12 kW/m2, respectively. This paper provides an effective reference for wind turbine de-icing.
A Comparison of 90° Bending for Foldable Electronics
Authors: Cordill Megan J. , Kreiml Patrice , Köstenbauer Harald , Mitterer Christian
Published: January 2024

In order to assess the longevity of foldable electronics, folding or bending tests on model systems need to be performed. However, not all bending tests are created equal in that different configurations lead to different amounts of mechanical damage and thus different electrical responses. Two 90° bending instruments were compared using two model metallic thin film systems on polyimide to establish if the two seemingly similar bending tests yield the same results. The two film systems, namely 300 nm Mo and 130 nm Al on 50 nm Mo, were magnetron-sputtered on polyimide substrates and tested in the custom-built FLEX-E-TEST and the commercially available YUASA test that is capable of in situ resistance measurements. For statistics, 10–12 samples were tested of each film system on each folding device using the same applied bending strain and number of cycles. Samples were intermittently characterized with confocal laser scanning microscopy and electrical resistance to correlate the amount of mechanical damage (crack density) with the electrical normalized resistance ratio of the damaged area. The results show that even with the same bending radius, a similar but not identical amount of mechanical damage forms for both bending devices. Additionally, the resistance as a function of cycles also differs after 10,000 cycles. A closer examination of the damage, especially in the Al/Mo film system, indicates that the speed of the bending, and if the samples experience spring back, can alter the received mechanical damage. The in situ resistance data of the YUASA test were further examined and a suggestion of standardizing how folding or bending test results are reported is provided.
Study of Multi-Channel Mode-Division Multiplexing Based on a Chalcogenide-Lithium Niobate Platform
Authors: Zheng Jiacheng , Liu Bowen , Weng Yuefei , Song Baoan
Published: January 2024

A multi-channel mode-division multiplexing based on a chalcogenide-lithium niobate platform using chalcogenide films with adjustable refractive index is proposed, with the aim of overcoming issues with narrow bandwidth and large crosstalk in conventional multiplexers. An asymmetric directional coupler, employing chalcogenide-based thin-film modulation, was designed to realize the multiplexing and separation of TE1, TE2, and TE3 modes. Simulations show that the device is capable of obtaining an insertion loss of between 0.03 dB and 0.7 dB and a crosstalk of between −21.66 dB and −28.71 dB at 1550 nm. The crosstalk of the TE1, TE2, and TE3 modes is below −20.1 dB when accessing the waveguide output port in the 1500–1600 nm band. The proposed multiplexer is a promising approach to enhance the transmission capability of thin-film lithium-niobate-integrated optical paths.
Comparison of the Diagnostic Performances of Five Different Tests in Diagnosing Visceral Leishmaniasis in an Endemic Region of Ethiopia
Authors: Hagos Dawit Gebreegziabiher , Kiros Yazezew Kebede , Abdulkader Mahmud , Schallig Henk D. F. H. , Wolday Dawit
Published: January 2024

The lack of accurate and feasible diagnostic tests poses a significant challenge to visceral leishmaniasis (VL) healthcare services in endemic areas. To date, various VL diagnostic tests have been or are being developed, and their diagnostic performances need to be assessed. In the present study, the diagnostic performances of rk39 RDT, the direct agglutination test (DAT), microscopy, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and miniature direct-on-blood polymerase chain reaction–nucleic acid lateral flow immunoassay (mini-dbPCR-NALFIA) were assessed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) as the reference test in an endemic region of Ethiopia. In this study, 235 suspected VL cases and 104 non-endemic healthy controls (NEHCs) were recruited. Among the suspected VL cases, 144 (61.28%) tested positive with qPCR. The sensitivities for rk39 RDT, DAT, microscopy, LAMP assay, and mini-dbPCR-NALFIA were 88.11%, 96.50%, 76.58%, 94.33%, and 95.80%, respectively. The specificities were 83.33%, 97.96%, 100%, 97.38%, and 98.92% for rk39 RDT, DAT, microscopy, LAMP assay, and mini-dbPCR-NALFIA, respectively. In conclusion, rk39 RDT and microscopy exhibited lower sensitivities, while DAT demonstrated excellent performance. LAMP and mini-dbPCR-NALFIA showed excellent performances with feasibility for implementation in remote endemic areas, although the latter requires further evaluation in such regions.
Coexistence of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis in Differentiated Thyroid Cancer: Post-Operative Monitoring of Anti-Thyroglobulin Antibodies and Assessment of Treatment Response
Authors: Donnici Alessandra , Mirabelli Maria , Giuliano Stefania , Misiti Roberta , Tocci Vera , Greco Marta , Aiello Vincenzo , Brunetti Francesco S. , Chiefari Eusebio , Aversa Antonio , Foti Daniela P. , Brunetti Antonio
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) is frequently found in conjunction with autoimmune thyroid disorders, particularly Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT). This study investigates the impact of coexisting HT on the persistence of an indeterminate response to therapy due to positive anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (AbTg), measured via competitive immunoassay, in a consecutive patient series from Calabria, Southern Italy. Methods: This retrospective longitudinal study analyzed 259 consecutive DTC patients managed at the Endocrinology Unit of Renato Dulbecco Hospital (Catanzaro, Italy) up to 2023. Patients with medullary and undifferentiated thyroid carcinoma, partial thyroidectomy, less than six months of post-operative monitoring, or missing clinical data were excluded. Demographic information, histological findings, initial tumor stage, and ATA risk category were collected. The response to therapy was assessed based on ATA guidelines. Results: Among the 259 patients, 29% had coexisting HT. Patients with HT exhibited distinct characteristics: a higher proportion of females (87.0% vs. 74.7%), a shorter post-operative monitoring duration (median 3 vs. 5 years), and a higher prevalence of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) (97.4% vs. 86.3%). The tumor size, lymph node involvement, and distant metastasis were similar between the groups, with patients without HT having a higher incidence of extrathyroidal tumor extension. However, the initial TNM stage and ATA risk category did not differ significantly. At the six-month follow-up, HT patients showed a higher rate of indeterminate responses, primarily due to positive AbTg. After 12 months, the response categories aligned, with decreasing AbTg levels in the HT group. After 24 months, most patients with long-term follow-up demonstrated an excellent response to DTC therapy, irrespective of HT coexistence. Conclusions: While HT does not worsen DTC prognosis, it may result in indeterminate responses. AbTg measurements in the peri-operative period should be encouraged to facilitate post-operative monitoring, emphasizing the importance of using standardized assays. Further research in larger populations with extended follow-up is needed to comprehensively understand the HT-DTC relationship.
Reply to Fujimoto, T. Comment on “Okaniwa, S. How Can We Manage Gallbladder Lesions by Transabdominal Ultrasound? Diagnostics 2021, 11, 784”
Authors: Okaniwa Shinji
Published: January 2024

Thank you for your interesting comments [...]
Dating Skin Lesions of Forensic Interest by Immunohistochemistry and Immunofluorescence Techniques: A Scoping Literature Review
Authors: Tomassini Luca , Lancia Massimo , Scendoni Roberto , Manta Anna Maria , Fruttini Daniela , Terribile Erika , Gambelunghe Cristiana
Published: January 2024

Wound age estimation is a significant issue in forensic pathology. Although various methods have been evaluated, no gold standard system or model has been proposed, and accurate injury time estimation is still challenging. The distinction between vital skin wounds—i.e., ante-mortem lesions—and skin alterations that occur after death is a crucial goal in forensic pathology. Once the vitality of the wound has been confirmed, the assessment of the post-trauma interval (PTI) is also fundamental in establishing the causal relationship between the traumatic event and death. The most frequently used techniques in research studies are biochemistry, molecular biology, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Biochemical methods take advantage of the chemical and physical techniques. A systematic literature search of studies started on 18 February 2023. The search was conducted in the main databases for biomedical literature, i.e., PubMed and Scopus, for papers published between 1973 and 2022, focusing on different techniques of immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence (IF) for estimating the PTI of skin wounds. The present study involves a comprehensive and structured analysis of the existing literature to provide a detailed and comprehensive overview of the different IHC techniques used to date skin lesions, synthesize the available evidence, critically evaluate the methodologies, and eventually draw meaningful conclusions about the reliability and effectiveness of the different markers that have been discovered and used in wound age estimation.
Plurihormonal Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors: Clinical Relevance of Immunohistochemical Analysis
Authors: Dumitriu-Stan Roxana-Ioana , Burcea Iulia-Florentina , Dobre Ramona , Nastase Valeria Nicoleta , Ceausu Raluca Amalia , Raica Marius , Poiana Catalina
Published: January 2024

Plurihormonal pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are rare forms of tumors that express more than one hormone. The most common association is between growth hormone (GH) and prolactin (PRL), but other unusual combinations have been reported, such as GH and ACTH. Usually, the clinical dominance in these cases is related to GH hypersecretion. In these cases, immunohistochemistry (IHC) of transcription factors (TFs) is very useful for an accurate diagnosis. We included 42 patients diagnosed with pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs): 37 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of acromegaly, and 5 patients with prolactinomas. All patients underwent transsphenoidal surgical intervention. We correlated the immunohistochemical features of plurihormonal PitNETs with clinical, hormonal, and imaging data. Tumor specimens were histologically and immunohistochemically examined. Based on the 2022 WHO classification, using IHC, 13 patients exhibited positive staining for more than one hormone, while unusual combinations like GH + ACTH and PRL + ACTH were also identified in other cases. Unusual cell combinations that produce hormones unrelated histogenetically, biochemically, or through regulatory mechanisms can appear and may display aggressive behavior, persistent disease, and high recurrence. We have not identified a clear correlation with the prognosis of these rare PitNETs.
Multi-UAV Path Planning and Following Based on Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Zhao Xiaoru , Yang Rennong , Zhong Liangsheng , Hou Zhiwei
Published: January 2024

Dedicated to meeting the growing demand for multi-agent collaboration in complex scenarios, this paper introduces a parameter-sharing off-policy multi-agent path planning and the following approach. Current multi-agent path planning predominantly relies on grid-based maps, whereas our proposed approach utilizes laser scan data as input, providing a closer simulation of real-world applications. In this approach, the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) uses the soft actor–critic (SAC) algorithm as a planner and trains its policy to converge. This policy enables end-to-end processing of laser scan data, guiding the UAV to avoid obstacles and reach the goal. At the same time, the planner incorporates paths generated by a sampling-based method as following points. The following points are continuously updated as the UAV progresses. Multi-UAV path planning tasks are facilitated, and policy convergence is accelerated through sharing experiences among agents. To address the challenge of UAVs that are initially stationary and overly cautious near the goal, a reward function is designed to encourage UAV movement. Additionally, a multi-UAV simulation environment is established to simulate real-world UAV scenarios to support training and validation of the proposed approach. The simulation results highlight the effectiveness of the presented approach in both the training process and task performance. The presented algorithm achieves an 80% success rate to guarantee that three UAVs reach the goal points.
QoS-Driven Slicing Management for Vehicular Communications
Authors: Tam Prohim , Ros Seyha , Song Inseok , Kim Seokhoon
Published: January 2024

Network slicing is introduced for elastically instantiating logical network infrastructure isolation to support different application types with diversified quality of service (QoS) class indicators. In particular, vehicular communications are a trending area that consists of massive mission-critical applications in the range of safety-critical, intelligent transport systems, and on-board infotainment. Slicing management can be achieved if the network infrastructure has computing sufficiency, a dynamic control policy, elastic resource virtualization, and cross-tier orchestration. To support the functionality of slicing management, incorporating core network infrastructure with deep learning and reinforcement learning has become a hot topic for researchers and practitioners in analyzing vehicular traffic/resource patterns before orchestrating the steering policies. In this paper, we propose QoS-driven management by considering (edge) resource block utilization, scheduling, and slice instantiation in a three-tier resource placement, namely, small base stations/access points, macro base stations, and core networks. The proposed scheme integrates recurrent neural networks to trigger hidden states of resource availability and predict the output of QoS. The intelligent agent and slice controller, namely, RDQ3N, gathers the resource states from three-tier observations and optimizes the action on allocation and scheduling algorithms. Experiments are conducted on both physical and virtual representational vehicle-to-everything (V2X) environments; furthermore, service requests are set to massive thresholds for rendering V2X congestion flow entries.
Research on a Resource Modeling and Power Prediction Method Based on Virtual Aggregation
Authors: Wang Di , Ai Qian , Zhu Kedong , Gao Guorong , Chen Minyu
Published: January 2024

Distributed resources at a grid’s end cannot upload operational power data to local centers due to data transmission and privacy issues. This leaves the centers with incomplete information, thus impacting decision making. This paper presents a virtual aggregation-based model for such scenarios. We define four virtual aggregate types based on resource response characteristics. Using characteristic coefficients, we identify these aggregates’ categories and proportions from bus power. To address blind source separation in single-channel power signals, we apply the Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition-Fast Independent Component Analysis (EEMD-FastICA) method. This helps extract and analyze bus power, thereby deriving power curves for different aggregates. Moreover, we use a graph convolutional network to explore how factors like date, time, weather, and pricing intertwine with aggregate power. We develop a predictive model with an advanced SpatioTemporal Graph Convolutional Network (STGCN), thus facilitating proactive power forecasting for virtual aggregates. Case studies show our method’s efficacy in extracting power curves under limited information, with the STGCN ensuring accurate, forward-looking predictions.
A Review of Generative Models in Generating Synthetic Attack Data for Cybersecurity
Authors: Agrawal Garima , Kaur Amardeep , Myneni Sowmya
Published: January 2024

The ability of deep learning to process vast data and uncover concealed malicious patterns has spurred the adoption of deep learning methods within the cybersecurity domain. Nonetheless, a notable hurdle confronting cybersecurity researchers today is the acquisition of a sufficiently large dataset to effectively train deep learning models. Privacy and security concerns associated with using real-world organization data have made cybersecurity researchers seek alternative strategies, notably focusing on generating synthetic data. Generative adversarial networks (GANs) have emerged as a prominent solution, lauded for their capacity to generate synthetic data spanning diverse domains. Despite their widespread use, the efficacy of GANs in generating realistic cyberattack data remains a subject requiring thorough investigation. Moreover, the proficiency of deep learning models trained on such synthetic data to accurately discern real-world attacks and anomalies poses an additional challenge that demands exploration. This paper delves into the essential aspects of generative learning, scrutinizing their data generation capabilities, and conducts a comprehensive review to address the above questions. Through this exploration, we aim to shed light on the potential of synthetic data in fortifying deep learning models for robust cybersecurity applications.
A New Link Adaptation Technique for Very High Frequency Data Exchange System in Future Maritime Communication
Authors: Shim Wooseong , Kim Buyoung , Kim Eui-Jik , Kim Dongwan
Published: January 2024

The growing demand for communication technology capable of providing high transmission rates in maritime environments has led to the exploration of the very high frequency (VHF) data exchange system (VDES) as a promising solution. The VDES, the integration of an automatic identification system (AIS), application-specific messaging (ASM), and VHF data exchange (VDE), offers improved transmission rates and stable connections compared with existing technologies. Although the VDES supports high transmission rates through various modulation and coding scheme (MCS) technologies, it lacks a standardized mechanism for controlling MCS parameters and relies on user algorithms for operation. In this paper, we introduce the maritime auto-rate fall-back (mARF) technology, designed to effectively address the challenges of maritime communication scenarios using the MCS framework provided by the VDES. mARF technology incorporates fast drop-out and recovery mechanisms to swiftly adapt to changing MCS types in the presence of deep nulls, a common occurrence in maritime communication environments. These adaptive thresholds for fast drop-out and recovery operations are dynamically learned using historical communication data. Through extensive simulations, we demonstrate the effectiveness of mARF in enhancing the MCS control capabilities of the VDES. Our results show a significant performance improvement of 18% compared to the existing model, validating the potential of mARF in optimizing maritime communication channels and supporting a high transmission rate.
Unraveling the Story of the Black Scorpionfish (Scorpaena porcus Linnaeus, 1758): Exploring Local Ecological Knowledge and the Exploitative History of a Marine Species
Authors: Tiralongo Francesco
Published: January 2024

In the Mediterranean Sea, and in marine areas worldwide, for most locations, data on species presence and abundance are generally poor or non-existent. When available, these data are generally reported only at small scale and/or for short temporal series. In this study, the investigation of abundance and size trends, along with some ecological aspects of the data-poor species Scorpaena porcus, commonly known as the Black Scorpionfish, was undertaken using FEK (Fishers’ Ecological Knowledge). The results clearly indicated a sharp reduction in both abundance and size over the last 21 years (2001–2021) of this species in the central Mediterranean Sea. The causes of this decline, and the importance of FEK, as well as Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK), in research and the assessment and management of biological resources are discussed.
Functional Adaptations of Hemocytes of Aplysia depilans (Gmelin, 1791) and Their Putative Role in Neuronal Regeneration
Authors: Alesci Alessio , Fumia Angelo , Mastrantonio Lorenza , Marino Sebastian , Miller Anthea , Albano Marco
Published: January 2024

Invertebrates show great diversity in their responses to neural damage. Numerous invertebrate phyla, including gastropods, can replace all or a portion of their nervous systems. Aplysia species have been utilized extensively in toxicology, ecology, and neuroscience because their neurological systems react to bodily harm by releasing trophic substances that can stimulate non-neural tissue regeneration and induce changes in the nervous system. This study aims to assess the putative role of hemocytes of Aplysia depilans (Gmelin, 1791) by analyzing the presence of Toll-like receptor 2, inducible nitric oxide synthetase, and, in particular, vimentin and α-tubulin, molecules potentially implicated in the process of neural regeneration. The results demonstrate that all the aforementioned proteins are present in hemocytes, suggesting their role in the defense response and their possible contribution to the neuronal regeneration process of this gastropod. These data provide deeper insight into the internal defense system of this mollusk.
Fractional Optimal Control Model and Bifurcation Analysis of Human Syncytial Respiratory Virus Transmission Dynamics
Authors: Awadalla Muath , Alahmadi Jihan , Cheneke Kumama Regassa , Qureshi Sania
Published: January 2024

In this paper, the Caputo-based fractional derivative optimal control model is looked at to learn more about how the human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) spreads. Model solution properties such as boundedness and non-negativity are checked and found to be true. The fundamental reproduction number is calculated by using the next-generation matrix’s spectral radius. The fractional optimal control model includes the control functions of vaccination and treatment to illustrate the impact of these interventions on the dynamics of virus transmission. In addition, the order of the derivative in the fractional optimal control problem indicates that encouraging vaccination and treatment early on can slow the spread of RSV. The overall analysis and the simulated behavior of the fractional optimum control model are in good agreement, and this is due in large part to the use of the MATLAB platform.
Deciphering the Plastomic Code of Chinese Hog-Peanut (Amphicarpaea edgeworthii Benth., Leguminosae): Comparative Genomics and Evolutionary Insights within the Phaseoleae Tribe
Authors: Xiang Yi-Nan , Wang Xiao-Qun , Ding Lu-Lu , Bai Xin-Yu , Feng Yu-Qing , Qi Zhe-Chen , Sun Yong-Tao , Yan Xiao-Ling
Published: January 2024

The classification and phylogenetic relationships within the Phaseoleae tribe (Leguminosae) have consistently posed challenges to botanists. This study addresses these taxonomic intricacies, with a specific focus on the Glycininae subtribe, by conducting a comprehensive analysis of the highly conserved plastome in Amphicarpaea edgeworthii Benth., a critical species within this subtribe. Through meticulous genomic sequencing, we identified a plastome size of 148,650 bp, composed of 128 genes, including 84 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Comparative genomic analysis across seven Glycininae species illuminated a universally conserved circular and quadripartite structure, with nine genes exhibiting notable nucleotide diversity, signifying a remarkable genomic variability. Phylogenetic reconstruction of 35 Phaseoleae species underscores the affinity of Amphicarpaea with Glycine, placing Apios as a sister lineage to all other Phaseoleae species, excluding Clitorinae and Diocleinae subtribes. Intriguingly, Apios, Butea, Erythrina, and Spatholobus, traditionally clumped together in the Erythrininae subtribe, display paraphyletic divergence, thereby contesting their taxonomic coherence. The pronounced structural differences in the quadripartite boundary genes among taxa with unresolved subtribal affiliations demand a reevaluation of Erythrininae’s taxonomic classification, potentially refining the phylogenetic contours of the tribe.
Endoscopic Management of Gastric Disruptions
Authors: Oza Veeral M. , Kothari Truptesh H.
Published: January 2024

Gastric perforations and leaks are significant complications that can arise from various gastrointestinal disorders and surgical interventions. Over the past decade, endoscopic techniques have emerged as an effective method for managing these conditions. Furthermore, as endoscopic resection techniques have grown in popularity, the risk of acute and delayed perforations has also grown. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the endoscopic management strategies employed in the management of gastric perforations and leaks. We will discuss the etiology, diagnostic modalities, and various endoscopic techniques utilized, as well as emerging trends in endoscopic management. Our attempt in writing this review paper is to educate and guide clinicians in making informed decisions when faced with gastric perforations and leaks.
Dante and the Canonists: Adhesions and Deviations on the Dialectic between Heresy and Schism
Authors: Ciarrocchi Emanuele
Published: January 2024

In this article, I will highlight how Dante’s clear separation between heretics and schismatics is radical compared to contemporary thought and can, therefore, tell us a great deal about his conception of these two sins and about the nature of the characters condemned in Cantos X and XXVIII. In fact, the heresy of disobedience, a political weapon created ad hoc to favor the imposition of the hierocratic model, tended, in the reflection of jurists, to bring together these two sins so well-separated by Dante. The proposal of a new interpretation of these concepts that is more adherent to their historicity, with a specific and radical meaning, can open up interesting reflections on Dante’s possible desire to affect this historical process. It also brings new interpretations to questions that still lack a convincing answer, such as the silence on the numerous heretical movements that had characterized the decades preceding the writing of the Commedia, the presence of Dolcino among the schismatics, and the selection of Epicurus as an exemplum of heresy.
An Exploratory Analysis of the Roles of Nurses on a Pediatric Rehabilitation Unit in South Korea Perceived by Pediatric Rehabilitation Professionals
Authors: Lee Hanna , Kim Da-Jung , Han Jeong-Won
Published: January 2024

Rehabilitation addresses not only children’s disabilities but also their physical, psychological, social, and cultural impairments. Hence, pediatric rehabilitation adopts a multidisciplinary approach; it encompasses the vital role of not only physicians and rehabilitation therapists, but also of nurses. This study conducts a content analysis of the experiences of healthcare professionals specializing in pediatric rehabilitation to explore the roles nurses working on pediatric rehabilitation units are expected to perform. After analyzing the interviews with 12 experts in pediatric rehabilitation, the roles of pediatric rehabilitation nurses were broadly categorized into five areas (caregivers, team members, counselors, researchers, and educators) with eight sub-groups and 24 specific roles. This study is significant because it provides profound insights into the roles of pediatric rehabilitation nurses in Korea. These insights can serve as foundational data for formulating policies for healthcare personnel in pediatric rehabilitation, and provide evidence for establishing a much-needed system for certified rehabilitation nurses in Korea.
Exploring the Feasibility of Integrating Weed and Nitrogen Management with Seed Meals in Organic Vegetables
Authors: Butterfield Allison , Wortman Sam E.
Published: January 2024

Corn gluten meal (CGM) and soybean meal (SBM) have demonstrated value as bioherbicides and organic fertilizers, but suggested application rates usually target either weed suppression or crop nutrition, not both. The objective of this study was to explore the feasibility of integrating weed and nitrogen management by evaluating effects of increasing seed meal rates within planting holes of plastic mulch film on weed density, soil nitrogen availability, and crop yield in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and broccoli (Brassica oleracea). CGM (10% N) or SBM (7% N) were applied at rates of 0.5, 1, 2, 3.5, or 5 g planting hole−1 N (depending on crop and year) after crops were transplanted, and 40 weed seeds per planting hole were seeded. Weed density decreased with increasing seed meal rate, regardless of type, and velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti) was more susceptible than the grass weeds tested. Velvetleaf suppression at the 5 g planting hole−1 N rate ranged from 66% to 97%, relative to the weedy control. Soil nitrogen availability increased with the application rate, but ammonium mineralized from seed meals applied at the highest rates were likely phytotoxic to weeds and crops. Seed meals never increased the crop yield and reduced the tomato yield in 2018 by 39% to 64%, relative to the weed-free control. The results suggest that integrating the management of weeds and nitrogen with seed meals in plastic mulch planting holes is not feasible because application rates required for consistent weed suppression are also toxic to crops.
Parametric and Nonparametric Machine Learning Techniques for Increasing Power System Reliability: A Review
Authors: Imam Fariha , Musilek Petr , Reformat Marek Z.
Published: January 2024

Due to aging infrastructure, technical issues, increased demand, and environmental developments, the reliability of power systems is of paramount importance. Utility companies aim to provide uninterrupted and efficient power supply to their customers. To achieve this, they focus on implementing techniques and methods to minimize downtime in power networks and reduce maintenance costs. In addition to traditional statistical methods, modern technologies such as machine learning have become increasingly common for enhancing system reliability and customer satisfaction. The primary objective of this study is to review parametric and nonparametric machine learning techniques and their applications in relation to maintenance-related aspects of power distribution system assets, including (1) distribution lines, (2) transformers, and (3) insulators. Compared to other reviews, this study offers a unique perspective on machine learning algorithms and their predictive capabilities in relation to the critical components of power distribution systems.
Emerging Stroke Risk Factors: A Focus on Infectious and Environmental Determinants
Authors: Hameed Sajid , Karim Nurose , Wasay Mohammad , Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy
Published: January 2024

This review focuses on emerging risk factors for stroke, including air pollution and climate change, gut microbiota, high altitude, and systemic infection. Up to 14% of all stroke-associated mortality is attributed to air pollution and is more pronounced in developing countries. Fine particulate matter and other air pollutants contribute to an increased stroke risk, and this risk appears to increase with higher levels and duration of exposure. Short term air pollution exposure has also been reported to increase the stroke risk. The gut microbiota is a complex ecosystem of bacteria and other microorganisms that reside in the digestive system and affect multiple body systems. Disruptions in the gut microbiota may contribute to stroke development, possibly by promoting inflammation and atherosclerosis. High altitudes have been associated with erythrocytosis and cerebrovascular sinus thrombosis, but several studies have reported an increased risk of thrombosis and ischemic stroke at high altitudes, typically above 3000 m. Systemic infection, particularly infections caused by viruses and bacteria, can also increase the risk of stroke. The risk seems to be greatest in the days to weeks following the infection, and the pathophysiology is complex. All these emerging risk factors are modifiable, and interventions to address them could potentially reduce stroke incidence.
Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation with Immunosuppression: A Hidden Threat?
Authors: Anvari Sama , Tsoi Keith
Published: January 2024

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation in the setting of immunosuppressive therapy is an increasingly recognized and preventable cause of elevated liver enzymes and clinical hepatitis in treated patients. However, not all immunosuppressive therapies confer the same risk. The purpose of this article was to review the literature on risks of HBV reactivation associated with immunosuppressive agents and propose a management algorithm. We searched Google Scholar, PubMed, and MEDLINE for studies related to hepatitis B reactivation and various immunosuppressive agents. The risk of HBV reactivation was found to differ by agent and depending on whether a patient had chronic HBV (HBsAg+) or past HBV (HBsAg−, anti-HBc+). The highest risk of reactivation (>10%) was associated with anti-CD20 agents and hematopoietic stem cell transplants. Multiple societies recommend HBV-specific anti-viral prophylaxis for patients with positive HBsAg prior to the initiation of immunosuppressive therapy, while the guidance for HBsAg− patients is more variable. Clinicians should check HBV status prior to beginning an immune-suppressive therapy. Patients with positive HBsAg should be initiated on antiviral prophylaxis in the majority of cases, whereas HBsAg− individuals should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Further research is required to determine the optimum duration of therapy.
Digital Therapeutics for Improving Effectiveness of Pharmaceutical Drugs and Biological Products: Preclinical and Clinical Studies Supporting Development of Drug + Digital Combination Therapies for Chronic Diseases
Authors: Biskupiak Zack , Ha Victor Vinh , Rohaj Aarushi , Bulaj Grzegorz
Published: January 2024

Limitations of pharmaceutical drugs and biologics for chronic diseases (e.g., medication non-adherence, adverse effects, toxicity, or inadequate efficacy) can be mitigated by mobile medical apps, known as digital therapeutics (DTx). Authorization of adjunct DTx by the US Food and Drug Administration and draft guidelines on “prescription drug use-related software” illustrate opportunities to create drug + digital combination therapies, ultimately leading towards drug–device combination products (DTx has a status of medical devices). Digital interventions (mobile, web-based, virtual reality, and video game applications) demonstrate clinically meaningful benefits for people living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, depression, and anxiety. In the respective animal disease models, preclinical studies on environmental enrichment and other non-pharmacological modalities (physical activity, social interactions, learning, and music) as surrogates for DTx “active ingredients” also show improved outcomes. In this narrative review, we discuss how drug + digital combination therapies can impact translational research, drug discovery and development, generic drug repurposing, and gene therapies. Market-driven incentives to create drug–device combination products are illustrated by Humira® (adalimumab) facing a “patent-cliff” competition with cheaper and more effective biosimilars seamlessly integrated with DTx. In conclusion, pharma and biotech companies, patients, and healthcare professionals will benefit from accelerating integration of digital interventions with pharmacotherapies.