bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Skin and Brain Transcriptome of Normally Pigmented and Pseudo-Albino Southern Flounder (Paralichthys lethostigma) Juveniles to Study the Molecular Mechanisms of Hypopigmentation and Its Implications for Species Survival in the Natural Environment
Authors: Blandon Ivonne R. , DiBona Elizabeth , Battenhouse Anna , Vargas Sean , Mace Christopher , Seemann Frauke
Published: July 2024

Southern flounder skin pigmentation is a critical phenotypic characteristic for this species’ survival in the natural environment. Normal pigmentation allows rapid changes of color for concealment to capture prey and UV light protection. In contrast, highly visible hypopigmented pseudo-albinos exhibit a compromised immune system and are vulnerable to predation, sensitive to UV exposure, and likely have poor survival in the wild. Skin and brain tissue samples from normally pigmented and hypopigmented individuals were analyzed with next-generation RNA sequencing. A total of 1,589,613 transcripts were used to identify 952,825 genes to assemble a de novo transcriptome, with 99.43% of genes mapped to the assembly. Differential gene expression and gene enrichment analysis of contrasting tissues and phenotypes revealed that pseudo-albino individuals appeared more susceptible to environmental stress, UV light exposure, hypoxia, and osmotic stress. The pseudo-albinos’ restricted immune response showed upregulated genes linked to cancer development, signaling and response, skin tissue formation, regeneration, and healing. The data indicate that a modified skin collagen structure likely affects melanocyte differentiation and distribution, generating the pseudo-albino phenotype. In addition, the comparison of the brain transcriptome revealed changes in myelination and melanocyte stem cell activity, which may indicate modified brain function, reduced melanocyte migration, and impaired vision.
Platelet Storage—Problems, Improvements, and New Perspectives
Authors: Trochanowska-Pauk Natalia , Walski Tomasz , Bohara Raghvendra , Mikolas Julia , Kubica Krystian
Published: July 2024

Platelet transfusions are routine procedures in clinical treatment aimed at preventing bleeding in critically ill patients, including those with cancer, undergoing surgery, or experiencing trauma. However, platelets are susceptible blood cells that require specific storage conditions. The availability of platelet concentrates is limited to five days due to various factors, including the risk of bacterial contamination and the occurrence of physical and functional changes known as platelet storage lesions. In this article, the problems related to platelet storage lesions are categorized into four groups depending on research areas: storage conditions, additive solutions, new testing methods for platelets (proteomic and metabolomic analysis), and extensive data modeling of platelet production (mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and artificial intelligence). This article provides extensive information on the challenges, potential improvements, and novel perspectives regarding platelet storage.
Opioid-Based Haptens: Development of Immunotherapy
Authors: Hosztafi Sándor , Galambos Anna Rita , Köteles István , Karádi Dávid Á , Fürst Susanna , Al-Khrasani Mahmoud
Published: July 2024

Over the past decades, extensive preclinical research has been conducted to develop vaccinations to protect against substance use disorder caused by opioids, nicotine, cocaine, and designer drugs. Morphine or fentanyl derivatives are small molecules, and these compounds are not immunogenic, but when conjugated as haptens to a carrier protein will elicit the production of antibodies capable of reacting specifically with the unconjugated hapten or its parent compound. The position of the attachment in opioid haptens to the carrier protein will influence the specificity of the antiserum produced in immunized animals with the hapten–carrier conjugate. Immunoassays for the determination of opioid drugs are based on the ability of drugs to inhibit the reaction between drug-specific antibodies and the corresponding drug–carrier conjugate or the corresponding labelled hapten. Pharmacological studies of the hapten–carrier conjugates resulted in the development of vaccines for treating opioid use disorders (OUDs). Immunotherapy for opioid addiction includes the induction of anti-drug vaccines which are composed of a hapten, a carrier protein, and adjuvants. In this review we survey the design of opioid haptens, the development of the opioid radioimmunoassay, and the results of immunotherapy for OUDs.
Salivary Cortisol Levels after Hydrotherapy and Land-Based Therapy as a Marker of Stress in Children with Psychomotor Developmental Disorders: A Pilot Study
Authors: Aguilar-Cordero María José , Michel-Araya Sabina , Noack Segovia Jessica Pamela , Latorre-García Julio , Rojas-Carvajal Ana María , Castillos Rafael Fernández
Published: July 2024

Background: The number of children experiencing postnatal situations of neurological risk (such as psycho-motor developmental disorders and delays) after birth has increased in recent years. These infants often require multiple pediatric interventions to address functional problems that might generate stress, anxiety, and discomfort. The aim of the present study is to determine whether the level of salivary cortisol, as a stress marker, increases after hydrotherapy and land-based therapy in children at risk of or currently presenting delayed psycho-motor development. Methods: Saliva samples were collected from 25 children (aged 3–36 months) between June 2022 and January 2023 at the Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine Clinical Management Unit of the Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada, Spain. Three samples were collected from each child, representing baseline, post-hydrotherapy and post-land-based therapy. Result: All salivary cortisol levels were within the normal range. Resting values were the highest, and both modes of therapy decreased salivary cortisol levels. There were no statistically significant differences between the two therapies. Conclusions: Both therapies appear to be useful for treating children with psychomotor developmental disorders without increasing stress during physiotherapy sessions. Although cortisol levels were slightly higher with hydrotherapy than with land-based therapy, this may be due to the small sample size.
Severe Maxillary Protrusion Treated with Surgically Assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion
Authors: Okuhashi Sonoko , Kobayashi Masaru , Tanaka Eiji
Published: July 2024

In this case, surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME) was successfully adopted to treat a skeletal maxillary protrusion with large overjet and severe crowding. The female patient, aged 25 years and 11 months, was diagnosed with skeletal maxillary protrusion with severe crowding and excessive overjet associated with labially inclined maxillary central incisors. After achieving sufficient space for surgical incision between bilateral maxillary central incisors, the SARME was performed. A total of 8.0 mm lateral expansion of the maxilla was completed. At 48 days after surgery, the Hyrax appliance was replaced with an Anchor-Lock system used as an external surgical stent and skeletal anchorage for maxillary group distalization, and the distal movement of the maxillary molars was initiated without waiting for bone healing of the separated midpalatal suture by SARME. Twenty-five months’ treatment, including surgical preparation, achieved an acceptable and stable occlusion with adequate interincisal relationship. The occlusion was much more stable with a little relapse through more than 4 years’ retention period. In conclusion, SARME followed by the Anchor-Lock system might lead to favorable occlusal outcome in the long term without any relapses.
Role of Brown Adipose Tissue in Metabolic Health and Efficacy of Drug Treatment for Obesity
Authors: Markina Natalia O. , Matveev Georgy A. , Zasypkin German G. , Golikova Tatiana I. , Ryzhkova Daria V. , Kononova Yulia A. , Danilov Sergey D. , Babenko Alina Yu.
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is responsible for non-shivering thermogenesis, and its activation has become a new object as both a determinant of metabolic health and a target for therapy. This study aimed to identify the relationships between the presence of BAT, parameters that characterize metabolic health (glucose, lipids, blood pressure (BP)), and the dynamics of body mass index (BMI) during weight-reducing therapy. (2) Methods: The study included 72 patients with obesity. We investigated metabolic parameters, anthropometric parameters, and BP. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) were performed. (3) Results: Before weight-reducing therapy, BAT was revealed only in 19% patients with obesity. The presence of BAT was associated with a lower risk of metabolic deviations that characterize metabolic syndrome: shorter waist circumference (WC) (p = 0.02) and lower levels of glucose (p = 0.03) and triglycerides (p = 0.03). Thereafter, patients were divided into four groups according to the type of therapy (only lifestyle modification or with Liraglutide or Reduxin or Reduxin Forte). We did not find a relationship between the presence of BAT and response to therapy: percent weight reduction was 10.4% in patients with BAT and 8.5% in patients without BAT (p = 0.78) during six months of therapy. But we noted a significant positive correlation between the volume of BAT and the effectiveness of weight loss at 3 months (r = 0.52, p = 0.016). The dynamic analysis of BAT after 6 months of therapy showed a significant increase in the volume of cold-induced metabolically active BAT, as determined by PET/CT with 18F-FDG in the Liraglutide group (p = 0.04) and an increase in the activity of BAT standardized uptake value (SUV mean and SUV max) in the Reduxin (p = 0.02; p = 0.01, respectively) and Liraglutide groups (p = 0.02 in both settings). (4) Conclusions: The presence of brown adipose tissue is associated with a lower risk of metabolic abnormalities. In general, our study demonstrated that well-established drugs in the treatment of obesity (Liraglutide and Reduxin) have one more mechanism for implementing their effects. These drugs have the ability to increase the activity of BAT. A significant positive relationship between the total volume of BAT and the percentage of weight loss may further determine the priority mechanism of the weight-reducing effect of these medicaments.
Endovascular Treatment for Basilar Artery Occlusion
Authors: Gupta Devansh , D’Anna Lucio , Klein Piers , Araujo-Contreras Robert , Kaliaev Artem , Abdalkader Mohamad , Hu Wei , Nguyen Thanh N.
Published: July 2024

Basilar artery occlusion (BAO) is a neurological emergency associated with a high risk for adverse outcomes. This review provides evidence on the therapeutic efficacy of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and endovascular therapy (EVT) in the treatment of BAO. Historically considered the primary intervention for acute ischemic stroke, IVT has been progressively combined with EVT, which has emerged from recent studies demonstrating clinical benefits, notably in patients presenting with severe stroke. Several randomised controlled trials have shown that EVT improves patient outcomes in select clinical contexts. Future research directions could address therapeutic treatment thresholds, combination strategies, and long-term outcomes.
Volumetric Biomarkers of Visual Outcome after Surgical Repair in Lamellar Macular Holes
Authors: Lippera Myrta , Moussa George , Ivanova Tsveta , Ferrara Mariantonia , Spiess Karina , Ally Naseer , Jasani Kirti , Dhawahir-Scala Felipe , Patton Niall , Jalil Assad
Published: July 2024

Background: We investigate novel OCT parameters, based on the volumetric analysis of lamellar macular holes (LMHs), as prognostic indicators for visual outcomes after surgery. Methods: LMHs were divided into degenerative LMHs (D-LMHs) and ERM-foveoschisis (ERM-FS). Pre-operative clinical, OCT linear and volumetric parameters were collected. Volumes were obtained using the OCT automatic segmentation, such as central retinal volume (CRV) and outer nuclear layer (ONL) volume, or using a novel method to calculate volumes of specific LMH entities like epiretinal proliferation (ERP), foveal cavity (FC) in D-LMH and schitic volume (SV) in ERM-FS. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis evaluated the factors predictive for post-operative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Results: We included 31 eyes of 31 patients (14 D-LMH,17 ERM-FS). A pre-operative BCVA ≤ 0.48 logMAR was a predictor for achieving ≤0.30 logMAR at final follow-up. A lower pre-operative BCVA (p = 0.008) and the presence of ERP (p = 0.002) were associated with worse visual outcomes post-surgery. Moreover, novel pre-operative OCT parameters significantly associated with worse post-operative BCVA, such as increased FC volume (p = 0.032) and lower CRV (p = 0.034) in the D-LMH subtype and lower CRV (p < 0.001) and ERP volume (p < 0.001), higher SV (p < 0.001) and foveal ONL volume (p < 0.001) in the ERM-FS subtype. Conclusions: Novel volumetric OCT parameters can be prognostic indicators of visual outcome following surgery in LMHs.
Colchicine—The Divine Medicine against COVID-19
Authors: Mitev Vanyo
Published: July 2024

Colchicine has a number of effects that suggest it may be useful in the treatment of COVID-19. Myeloid cells are a major source of dysregulated inflammation in COVID-19. The hyperactivation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the subsequent cytokine storm take place precisely inside them and can lead to multiorgan damage and death. NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition has been assessed at micromolar colchicine concentrations which cannot be achieved in serum. However, colchicine has remarkable ability to accumulate intensively in leukocytes, where the cytokine storm is generated. Over 50 observational studies and randomized clinical trials, small randomized non-controlled trials, and retrospective cohort studies were initiated to test its healing effect in vivo, leading to conflicting, rather disappointing results. The WHO gives a “Strong recommendation against” the use of colchicine for COVID-19 treatment. This is because low doses of colchicine are always used, where the concentrations required to inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome in leukocytes cannot be reached. Considering this, from March 2020, we started the administration of higher doses of colchicine. Our assumption was that a safe increase in colchicine doses to reach micromolar concentrations in leukocytes will result in NLRP3 inflammasome/cytokine storm inhibition. We demonstrated that in 785 inpatients treated with increasing doses of colchicine, mortality fell between two and seven times. Our data, including a large number of COVID-19 outpatients, showed that nearly 100% of the patients treated with this therapeutic regimen escaped hospitalization. In addition, post-COVID-19 symptoms in those treated with colchicine were significantly rarer. As a large number of viruses can overactivate the NLRP3 inflammasome (like seasonal influenza), we are convinced that higher colchicine doses would be useful in these cases as well.
Ecosystem Service Trade-Offs in Peri-Urban Landscapes: Drivers, Governance Obstacles and Improvements
Authors: Spyra Marcin , Caló Nica Claudia , Martínez Pastur Guillermo J. , Lencinas María Vanessa , La Rosa Daniele
Published: July 2024

Trade-offs in ecosystem services (ESs) manifest when the enhancement of one service leads to the diminishment of another. These trade-offs pose a notable challenge, impacting the sustainability of particular socioecological system peri-urban landscapes (PULs). This issue arises from the dynamic processes associated with peri-urbanization, which threaten natural ecosystems and their services in peri-urban areas. Additionally, the escalating demand for ecosystem services in PULs contributes to these trade-offs. Policymaking and planning concerning ES trade-offs in PULs should prioritize promoting a balance between conflicting services and fostering synergies among them. However, it is noteworthy that ES trade-offs in PULs are not given high priority in policy and planning agendas. Knowledge regarding policy development and planning for ES trade-offs in PULs often remains concealed within specific country and regional case studies. Consequently, this research seeks to characterize the ES trade-offs in selected PUL case studies, with the objective of identifying potential commonalities among them. Furthermore, this study aims to identify (i) the factors driving ES trade-offs, (ii) challenges related to how policymaking and planning address ES trade-offs in PULs, and (iii) recommendations for enhancing governance practices to better manage peri-urban ES trade-offs. We designed a semi-quantitative survey and collected information about 24 case studies located across the world. The answers from this survey were analyzed using principal component analysis. The results showed that the most common trade-offs occurred between “cultural and provisioning” and “regulating and provisioning” ESs. It was found that urban development is the primary driver behind the emergence of the examined trade-offs. To address this issue at the governance level, this study recommends establishing mechanisms to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders. This should be accompanied by robust dissemination efforts and the promotion of awareness among actors regarding the fundamental concepts of ESs and PULs.
Differentiating Gliosarcoma from Glioblastoma: A Novel Approach Using PEACE and XGBoost to Deal with Datasets with Ultra-High Dimensional Confounders
Authors: Saki Amir , Faghihi Usef , Baldé Ismaila
Published: July 2024

In this study, we used a recently developed causal methodology, called Probabilistic Easy Variational Causal Effect (PEACE), to distinguish gliosarcoma (GSM) from glioblastoma (GBM). Our approach uses a causal metric which combines Probabilistic Easy Variational Causal Effect (PEACE) with the XGBoost, or eXtreme Gradient Boosting, algorithm. Unlike prior research, which often relied on statistical models to reduce dataset dimensions before causal analysis, our approach uses the complete dataset with PEACE and the XGBoost algorithm. PEACE provides a comprehensive measurement of direct causal effects, applicable to both continuous and discrete variables. Our method provides both positive and negative versions of PEACE together with their averages to calculate the positive and negative causal effects of the radiomic features on the variable representing the type of tumor (GSM or GBM). In our model, PEACE and its variations are equipped with a degree d which varies from 0 to 1 and it reflects the importance of the rarity and frequency of the events. By using PEACE with XGBoost, we achieved a detailed and nuanced understanding of the causal relationships within the dataset features, facilitating accurate differentiation between GSM and GBM. To assess the XGBoost model, we used cross-validation and obtained a mean accuracy of 83% and an average model MSE of 0.130. This performance is notable given the high number of columns and low number of rows (code on GitHub).
Surface Treatment Strategies and Their Impact on the Material Behavior and Interfacial Adhesion Strength of Shape Memory Alloy NiTi Wire Integrated in Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Laminate Structures
Authors: Palaniyappan Saravanan , Ramesha Harshan Kalenahalli , Trautmann Maik , Quirin Steven , Heib Tobias , Herrmann Hans-Georg , Wagner Guntram
Published: July 2024

Over the past few decades, there has been a growing trend in designing multifunctional materials and integrating various functions into a single component structure without defects. This research addresses the contemporary demand for integrating multiple functions seamlessly into thermoplastic laminate structures. Focusing on NiTi-based shape memory alloys (SMAs), renowned for their potential in introducing functionalities like strain measurement and shape change, this study explores diverse surface treatments for SMA wires. Techniques such as thermal oxidation, plasma treatment, chemical activation, silanization, and adhesion promoter coatings are investigated. The integration of NiTi SMA into Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) laminates is pursued to enable multifunctional properties. The primary objective is to evaluate the influence of these surface treatments on surface characteristics, including roughness, phase changes, and mechanical properties. Microstructural, analytical, and in situ mechanical characterizations are conducted on both raw and treated SMA wires. The subsequent incorporation of SMA wires after characterization into GFRP laminates, utilizing hot-press technology, allows for the determination of interfacial adhesion strength through pull-out tensile tests.
Randomized Clinical Trial on Direct Composite and Indirect Ceramic Laminate Veneers in Multiple Diastema Closure Cases: Two-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Elkaffas Ali A. , Alshehri Abdullah , Alqahtani Ali R. , Abuelqomsan Mohammed A. , Deeban Yahya A. M. , Albaijan Refal S. , Alanazi Khalid K. , Almudahi Abdulellah F.
Published: July 2024

In recent years, laminate veneer restorations should be considered as a minimally invasive treatment option for several aesthetic reasons. This study compared direct composite veneers’ and indirect ceramic laminate veneers’ longevity in multiple diastema closures. A total of 28 patients with a mean age of 26 years received 60 direct resin composite (Estelite Asteria; n = 14) and 60 indirect ceramic veneers (IPS e.max Press; n = 14) on the maxillary anterior teeth with diastema closure. Veneers were evaluated at baseline and thereafter every 6 months for up to 2 years using USPHS criteria. Data were analyzed with Fisher’s exact and chi-squared tests, while Kaplan–Meier curve was used to assess time to event. In total, three failures were observed in the form of debonding (n = 1) and fracture (n = 2) in the indirect ceramic veneers. No significant difference was observed between the survival rates of composite and ceramic veneers (Estelite Asteria: 93.4%, IPS e.max Press: 95%; p > 0.05). The overall survival rate was 94.2% (Kaplan–Meier). Staining (n = 11) and roughness (n = 14) were frequently observed for the resin composite veneers up to the final recall. Thereby, the preliminary results from this clinical trial comparing two veneer materials indicated that their survival rates were statistically similar. However, surface quality changes were more frequent in the composite veneer material.
Tailoring Alkalized and Oxidized V2CTx as Anode Materials for High-Performance Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Yuxuan , Gao Lin , Cao Minglei , Li Shaohui
Published: July 2024

V2CTx MXenes have gained considerable attention in lithium ion batteries (LIBs) owing to their special two-dimensional (2D) construction with large lithium storage capability. However, engineering high-capacity V2CTx MXenes is still a great challenge due to the limited interlayer space and poor surface terminations. In view of this, alkalized and oxidized V2CTx MXenes (OA-V2C) are envisaged. SEM characterization confirms the accordion-like layered morphology of OA-V2C. The XPS technique illustrates that undergoing alkalized and oxidized treatment, V2CTX MXene replaces -F and -OH with -O groups, which are more conducive to pseudocapacitive properties as well as Na ion diffusion, providing more active sites for ion storage in OA-V2C. Accordingly, the electrochemical performance of OA-V2C as anode materials for LIBs is evaluated in this work, showing excellent performance with high reversible capacity (601 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 over 500 cycles), competitive rate performance (222.2 mAh g−1 and 152.8 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1 and 5 A g−1), as well as durable long-term cycling property (252 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1 undergoing 5000 cycles). It is noted that the intercalation of Na+ ions and oxidation co-modification greatly reduces F surface termination and concurrently increases interlayer spacing in OA-V2C, significantly expediting ion/electron transportation and providing an efficient way to maximize the performance of MXenes in LIBs. This innovative refinement methodology paves the way for building high-performance V2CTx MXenes anode materials in LIBs.
Flammability, Toxicity, and Microbiological Properties of Polyurethane Flexible Foams
Authors: Głowacki Arkadiusz , Rybiński Przemysław , Czerwonka Grzegorz , Żukowski Witold , Mirkhodjaev Ulugbek Zakirovich , Żelezik Monika
Published: July 2024

The aim of the research was to investigate the influence of calcium phosphinate (HPCA) and aluminum phosphinate (HPAL) in synergistic systems with organophosphorus compounds, i.e., diphenylcresyl phosphate (CDP) and trichloropropyl phosphate (TCPP), on the thermal stability, flammability, smoke density, and emission of toxic gases during the thermal decomposition of polyurethane (PUR) foams. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), along with cone calorimetry and microcalorimetry, were used to assess the influence of fillers on the thermal stability and flammability of PUR foams. The analysis of toxic gas products was performed with the use of a coupled TG–gas analyzer system. The optical density of gases was measured with the use of a smoke density chamber (SDC). The obtained results showed an increase in thermal stability and a decrease in the flammability of the PUR composites. However, the results regarding smoke and gas emissions, as well as toxic combustion by-products, present ambiguity. On one hand, the applied flame retardant systems in the form of PUR-HPCA-CDP and PUR-HPCA-TCPP led to a reduction in the concentration of CO and HCN in the gas by-products. On the other hand, they clearly increased the concentration of CO2, NOx, and smoke emissions. Microbiological studies indicated that the obtained foam material is completely safe for use and does not exhibit biocidal properties.
Energy Filtering in Doping Modulated Nanoengineered Thermoelectric Materials: A Monte Carlo Simulation Approach
Authors: Priyadarshi Pankaj , Vargiamidis Vassilios , Neophytou Neophytos
Published: July 2024

Using Monte Carlo electronic transport simulations, coupled self-consistently with the Poisson equation for electrostatics, we explore the thermoelectric power factor of nanoengineered materials. These materials consist of alternating highly doped and intrinsic regions on the scale of several nanometers. This structure enables the creation of potential wells and barriers, implementing a mechanism for filtering carrier energy. Our study demonstrates that by carefully designing the nanostructure, we can significantly enhance its thermoelectric power factor compared to the original pristine material. Importantly, these enhancements stem not only from the energy filtering effect that boosts the Seebeck coefficient but also from the utilization of high-energy carriers within the wells and intrinsic barrier regions to maintain relatively high electronic conductivity. These findings can offer guidance for the design and optimization of new-generation thermoelectric materials through improvements in the power factor.
Sensitivity Analysis and Uncertainty of a Myocardial Infarction Model
Authors: Chen-Charpentier Benito , Kojouharov Hristo
Published: July 2024

There is uncertainty in the results of any mathematical model due to different reasons. It is important to estimate this uncertainty. Sensitivity analysis is commonly used to estimate how the changes in the input parameters affect the solutions of the model. In this paper, we discuss different ways of performing local and global sensitivity analyses and apply them to two models: an epidemic model and a new myocardial infarction model, both based on ordinary differential equations. The first model is a simple model used to explain the ideas, while the second one shows how to apply them to a model with more state variables and parameters. We find that if the parameters are not accurately known, local sensitivity analysis can be misleading and that global sensitivity methods that sample the whole parameter space, varying all the values of the parameters at the same time, are the most reliable. We also show how the sensitivity analysis results can be used to determine the uncertainty in the results of the model. We present numerical simulations.
Covert Communication for Dual Images with Two-Tier Bits Flipping
Authors: Xu Shuying , Liu Jui-Chuan , Chang Ching-Chun , Chang Chin-Chen
Published: July 2024

Data hiding in digital images is a potent solution for covert communication, embedding sensitive data into cover images. However, most existing methods are tailored for one-to-one scenarios, which present security risks. To mitigate this vulnerability, we introduce an innovative one-to-two data hiding scheme that employs a two-tier bit-flipping strategy to embed sensitive data in dual images. This process produces two stego images which are then transmitted to two distinct recipients who cannot extract any sensitive data alone. The sensitive data can only be extracted when the two recipients trust each other. Through this method, we can secure the stego images. The experimental results illustrate that our method achieves an excellent data payload while maintaining high visual quality.
Obtention of Suitable Pregnant Leach Solution (PLS) for Copper Solvent Extraction Plants from Copper Concentrate Using Hydrogen Peroxide and Iodine in a Sulfuric Acid–Chloride Medium
Authors: Taboada María E. , Jamett Nathalie E. , Moraga German A. , Hernández Pia C. , Graber Teófilo A.
Published: July 2024

Copper leaching presents an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional sulfide ore processing methods. This study investigates an efficient leaching process for copper concentrate, utilizing a solution of sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and potassium iodide (KI) in a chloride medium (NaCl), enhanced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at room temperature. A significant aspect of this research was optimizing the KI concentration to minimize iodide sublimation into iodine gas (I2). Through the experimental design, the optimal dosages of reagents were determined, leading to maximized copper extraction of approximately 27% in 45 min of testing at room temperature. The results showed that it is possible to obtain a suitable pregnant leach solution (PLS) (i.e., in the range of 3 to 8 g/L of Cu) for treatment in available copper solvent extraction (SX) plants with a cost of less than 4.5 USD/t Cu, according to the economic analysis carried out. The results of this study determine the most effective operational conditions for leaching and ensure a suitable PLS for SX plants in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner. This approach could significantly contribute to more sustainable practices in the mining and processing of copper ores.
New Insights into Molecular Characterization, Antimicrobial Resistance and Virulence Factors of Methicillin-Sensitive Coagulase-Positive Staphylococcus spp. from Dogs with Pyoderma and Otitis Externa
Authors: Ben Chehida Faten , Tombari Wafa , Gharsa Haythem , Rabia Youssef , Ferhi Sana , Jrad Maha , Messadi Lilia
Published: July 2024

The first Tunisian national molecular survey of coagulase-positive staphylococci (CoPS) isolated from dogs with pyoderma and otitis externa was conducted to evaluate the prevalence of CoPS and identify its phenotypic and genotypic diversities. A total of 99 out of the 195 samples collected from 39 sick dogs were identified across multiple sites as methicillin-susceptible CoPS belonging to the species S. pseudintermedius (64.4%), S. aureus (20.2%), S. coagulans (10.1%), and S. hyicus (5%). Fifteen sampled dogs carried more than one Staphylococcus species. Their antibiotic resistance and virulence factors were determined using conventional and molecular methods. Of the S. pseudintermedius isolates found, 17.4% were multidrug-resistant, whereas high rates of virulence genes were observed among the S. aureus isolates. On polystyrene surfaces, 75% of S. aureus isolates were biofilm producers, of which 15% were classified as strong producers. The capsular polysaccharide cap8 genotype was predominant among them. A MultiLocus Sequence Typing (MLST) analysis clustered the S.aureus isolates into five distinct sequence types (STs), with four assigned for the first time. Our findings highlight the spread of CoPS among diseased dogs and, especially, the emergence of S. hyicus, S. coagulans, multidrug-resistant S. pseudintermedius and S. aureus isolates with high genetic variability. The precise characterization of these strains, as well as their continuous monitoring, is necessary for the implementation of preventive strategies given the significant public health risk.
The Nigerian Dietary Screening Tool: A Step toward Improved Patient-Clinician Communication in Nigerian Hospitals: A Pilot Implementation Study
Authors: Batubo Nimisoere P. , Auma Carolyn I. , Moore J. Bernadette , Zulyniak Michael A.
Published: July 2024

Implementing dietary screening tools into clinical practice has been challenging, including in Nigeria. This study evaluated the impact of the Nigerian dietary screening tool (NiDST) on patient–clinician communication and barriers to and facilitators of implementation. A mixed methods approach was used to collect data from patients (n = 151) and clinicians (n = 20) from outpatient clinics in Nigeria. Patients completed the validated 25-item NiDST prior to outpatient consultations. Both patients and clinicians completed the Measurement Instrument for Determinants of Innovations (MIDI) questionnaire to assess implementation determinants post-consultation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted for in-depth feedback. The fidelity of implementation was 92% for NiDST-reported dietary discussion, with a mean completion time of <6 min and an accepted marginal increase in consultation time (<10 min). For clinicians, 25% reported time constraints and their additional nutritional knowledge as barriers, while facilitators of NiDST implementation were the clarity and completeness of the NiDST, clinical relevance and improved patient–clinician communication, as reported by all the clinicians. Over 96% of patients reported the NiDST as quick to complete, with 90.7% reporting self-reflection on dietary intake. This study demonstrated the NiDST’s potential to enhance patient–clinician communication and highlighted major facilitators of implementation in clinical practice to improve dietary discussion in Nigeria.
Evidence of Horizontal Violence in Healthcare Settings: A Narrative Review
Authors: Travaini Guido Vittorio , Flutti Emma , Sottocornola Martina , Tambone Vittoradolfo , Blandino Alberto , Di Palma Gianmarco , De Micco Francesco
Published: July 2024

In the professional realm, the healthcare sector stands out as one of the most susceptible to violence. One notable manifestation of this is violence among colleagues, commonly referred to as horizontal violence, which has garnered significant attention in recent times. To delve deeper into this phenomenon across various categories of healthcare professionals, a comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL, resulting in the inclusion of 13 articles. The findings of this narrative review illuminate how horizontal violence can manifest in both physical and psychological forms and how it often becomes normalized among the healthcare professionals who endure it. Particularly vulnerable to such occurrences are recent graduates and those with limited professional experience. Furthermore, it has been observed that horizontal violence has detrimental effects on the well-being of those subjected to it, as well as on the quality of patient care delivered. Considering preventive measures, numerous studies emphasize the pivotal role of effective departmental leadership in fostering a harmonious work environment. Despite the largely underreported nature of this phenomenon, the conclusions drawn in this study advocate for a deeper exploration of the dynamics surrounding horizontal violence, with the goal of devising targeted strategies to mitigate its occurrence.
Exploring Burnout among Nursing Students in Bangalore: A t-Distributed Stochastic Neighbor Embedding Analysis and Hierarchical Clustering in Cross-Sectional Data
Authors: Sebastian Michael , De Maria Maddalena , Caruso Rosario , Rocco Gennaro , Di Pasquale Cristina , Magon Arianna , Conte Gianluca , Stievano Alessandro
Published: July 2024

This study explores burnout among nursing students in Bangalore, India, focusing on Exhaustion and Disengagement scores. A cross-sectional design was applied using the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory modified for nursing students, collecting data using a survey that was conducted between October and December 2023. The sample consisted of 237 female nursing students from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Bangalore College of Nursing, South India. The study integrated the t-distributed Stochastic Neighbor Embedding (t-SNE) procedure for data simplification into three t-SNE components, used in a hierarchical clustering analysis, which identified distinct student profiles: “High-Intensity Study Group” and “Altruistic Aspirants”. While burnout scores were generally high, students with high study hours (“High-Intensity Study Group”) reported greater Exhaustion, with a mean score of 26.78 (SD = 5.26), compared to those in the “Altruistic Aspirants” group, who reported a mean score of 25.00 (SD = 4.48), demonstrating significant differences (p-value = 0.005). Conversely, those motivated by altruism (“Altruistic Aspirants”) showed higher Disengagement, with a mean score of 19.78 (SD = 5.08), in contrast to “High-Intensity Study Group”, which reported a lower mean of 17.84 (SD = 4.74) (p-value = 0.002). This segmentation suggests that burnout manifests differently depending on the students’ academic load and intrinsic motivations. This study underscores the need for targeted interventions that address specific factors characterizing the clusters and provide information for designing future research and interventions. This study was not registered.
The First Domesticated ‘Cheongju Sorori Rice’ Excavated in Korea
Authors: Cho Yong-Gu , Kim Me-Sun , Kang Kwon Kyoo , Chin Joong Hyoun , Yu Ju-Kyung , Cho Soowon , Lee Chul-Won , Cho Jun Hyun , Park Tae-Sik , Suh Hak-Soo , Heu Mun-Hue , Lee Seung-Won , Woo Jong-Yoon , Lee Yung-Jo
Published: July 2024

Archaeological excavations led by Yung-jo Lee and Jong-yoon Woo were carried out twice at the Sorori paleolithic site, Cheongju, in the Republic of Korea, at the upper stream of the Geumgang river, the Miho riverside. A total of 127 rice seeds were excavated, including 18 ancient rice and 109 Quasi-rice, in 1998 and 2001. At the first excavation, eleven short japonica-type ancient rice and one slender smooth ancient rice with two kinds of Quasi-rice were excavated. The average length of the 11 short rice grains obtained from the first and second excavation was 7.19 mm and the average width was 3.08 mm, respectively. The Quasi-rice are apparently different from the rice and do not have bi-peak protuberances on their glume surface. At the second excavation, six short ancient rice chaffs and some Quasi-rice 2 were found. These short-grained ancient rice were comparable to the ancient rice that were excavated at the Illsan Neolithic site. Geologists and radiologists confirmed that the peat layer in which the rice found was older than 15,000 years. In this study, the morphological characteristics, crushing, and DNA band patterns related to the genetic polymorphism of rice grains in Cheongju Sorori were compared and analyzed for genetic similarities and differences with wild rice, weed rice, and modern rice. The morphological, ecological, and physiological variations in rice grains excavated from the Sorori site were presumed to denote the origin of rice domestication in Korea. It is also suggested that the results of the DNA sequencing of excavated rice are very important clues in estimating the origin of the early domestication of rice.
Research on Intelligent Scheduling Strategy for Electric Heavy Trucks Considering Photovoltaic Outputs
Authors: Jing Jiaheng , Mutailipu Meiheriayi , Wang Qi , Xiong Qiang , Huang Mingyao , Zhang Jiuming
Published: July 2024

Due to the extensive use of fossil fuels, energy conservation and sustainable transportation have become hot topics. Electric vehicles (EVs), renowned for their clean and eco-friendly attributes, have garnered considerable global attention and are progressively being embraced worldwide. However, disorganized EV charging not only reduces charging station efficiency but also threatens power grid stability. In this low-carbon era, photovoltaic storage charging stations offer a solution that accommodates future EV growth. However, due to the significant instability in both the charging load and photovoltaic power generation within charging stations, it is critical to maximize local photovoltaic power consumption and minimize the impact of disorganized EV charging on the power grid. This paper formulates an intelligent scheduling strategy for electric heavy trucks within charging stations based on typical photovoltaic output data. The study focuses on a photovoltaic storage charging station in an industrial zone in Xinjiang. While considering the electricity procurement cost of the charging station, the aim is to minimize fluctuations in the electricity procurement load. A simulation analysis was conducted using MATLAB 2021a software, and the results indicated that, compared to an uncoordinated charging strategy for electric heavy trucks, the proposed strategy reduced electricity procurement costs by CNY 1348.25, decreased load fluctuations by 169.45, and improved the utilization efficiency of photovoltaic energy by 30%. A statistical analysis was also used to support the reduction in electricity procurement costs and load variations. Finally, a sensitivity analysis of the weight factors in the objective function was performed, proving that the proposed strategy effectively reduces electricity procurement costs and improves the utilization efficiency of photovoltaic energy.
Phytoremediation Characterization of Heavy Metals by Some Native Plants at Anthropogenic Polluted Sites in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alghamdi Sameera A. , El-Zohri Manal
Published: July 2024

Many anthropogenic activities have lately resulted in soil adulteration by heavy metals (HMs). The assessment of native plant species that grow in the polluted environments is of great importance for using these plants in phytoremediation techniques. This study was conducted in three industrial regions in Jeddah city, Wadi Marik, Bahra, and Khumrah, to assess the HM contamination level in them. This study also evaluated the phytoremediation ability of nine plant species collected from the studied regions. Soil physicochemical properties of the studied sites were investigated. Nine HMs, aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), cobalt (Co), iron (Fe), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), and barium (Ba), have been evaluated in the collected soil, plant shoots, and root samples. Total thiol concentration in the plant shoots and roots was determined. The phytoremediation indexes, such as bioaccumulation factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF), were estimated. The results show that the soil of all the explored sites was sandy and slightly alkaline. It was found that Ni, Pb, and Cr were above the international permissible limit in all soil samples. The Wadi Marik region recorded the highest HM concentration compared to the other sites. In the Bahra region, Fe, Zn, Co, and Mn in all collected soil samples were below internationally permissible levels. In Khumrah, the highest concentration of Zn was found in the soil sample collected around F. indica plants, while Fe, Co, and Mn in all collected soil samples were below the international permissible limit. Depending on the BCF calculations, most of the investigated species showed phytostabilization ability for most of the studied HMs. Of them, E. indica, T. nubica, and P. divisum recorded the highest BCF values that ranged from 16.1 to 3.4. The BCF values of the studied HMs reduced in the order of Cr > Zn > Mn > Co > Ba > Fe > Al > Pb. Phytoextration of Co and Cr could be achieved by P. oleracea and F. indica, which showed TF values that reached 6.7 and 6.1, respectively. These plants showed high potential for phytoremediation and can be suggested as protective belts close to the contaminated regions of Jeddah.
Government Borrowing and South African Banks’ Capital Structure: A System GMM Approach
Authors: Mabandla Ndonwabile Zimasa , Marozva Godfrey
Published: July 2024

This paper aimed to investigate the effects of government borrowing banks’ capital structure using a sample of banks registered in South Africa from 2012 to 2021. Despite the extensive literature on this association, few prominent researchers have studied this phenomenon in the banking sector. Applying the generalised method of moments (GMM) model, the study established a positive but significant effect on the South African banks’ capital structure from total government borrowing, local government borrowing and foreign government borrowing, and capital structure. Contrary to the crowding-out effects detected, the results revealed a positive and significant relationship between government borrowing and banks’ capital structure. The crowding-in effect better explains these results, where government borrowing stimulates the local market for goods and services, motivating banks to borrow more in order to meet the demand for loans. Future research should test the cointegrating and causality relationship between government borrowing and bank capital structure. Also, given that the banking sector is constrained by Basel III’s capital adequacy requirement, controlling for this factor is critical in future research.
Assessment of PERSIANN Satellite Products over the Tulijá River Basin, Mexico
Authors: Ceferino-Hernández Lorenza , Magaña-Hernández Francisco , Campos-Campos Enrique , Morosanu Gabriela Adina , Torres-Aguilar Carlos E. , Mora-Ortiz René Sebastián , Díaz Sergio A.
Published: July 2024

Precipitation is a fundamental component of the Earth’s hydrological cycle. Therefore, monitoring precipitation is paramount, as accurate information is needed to prevent natural hydrological disasters, such as floods and droughts. However, measuring precipitation using rain gauges is complicated due to their sparse spatial distribution. Satellite precipitation products (SPPs) are an alternative source of rainfall data. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of PERSIANN-CCS and PDIR-Now SPPs over the Tulijá River Basin (Chiapas, Mexico) using scatter plots, categorical statistics, descriptive statistics, and decomposing total bias. Additionally, bias correction was performed using the quantile mapping (QM) method. QM is a technique used to improve the fit of SPPs with respect to rainfall observations through a transfer function, aiming to reduce systematic errors in SPPs. The results indicate that the PDIR-Now product tends to overestimate rainfall to a large extent, thus showing better performance in detecting rain events. Meanwhile, PERSIANN-CCS underestimates precipitation to a lesser extent. The findings of this study demonstrate that correcting the bias of SPPs improves estimations of rainfall records, thereby reducing the percentage bias and root mean square error.