bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testosterone and the Amygdala’s Functional Connectivity in Women and Men
Authors: Kogler Lydia , Müller Veronika I. , Moser Ewald , Windischberger Christian , Gur Ruben C. , Habel Ute , Eickhoff Simon B. , Derntl Birgit
Published: October 2023

The amygdala contains androgen receptors and is involved in various affective and social functions. An interaction between testosterone and the amygdala’s functioning is likely. We investigated the amygdala’s resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) network in association with testosterone in 94 healthy young adult women and men (final data available for analysis from 42 women and 39 men). Across the whole sample, testosterone was positively associated with the rsFC between the right amygdala and the right middle occipital gyrus, and it further predicted lower agreeableness scores. Significant sex differences appeared for testosterone and the functional connectivity between the right amygdala and the right superior frontal gyrus (SFG), showing higher testosterone levels with lower connectivity in women. Sex further predicted the openness and agreeableness scores. Our results show that testosterone modulates the rsFC between brain areas involved in affective processing and executive functions. The data indicate that the cognitive control of the amygdala via the frontal cortex is dependent on the testosterone levels in a sex-specific manner. Testosterone seems to express sex-specific patterns (1) in networks processing affect and cognition, and (2) in the frontal down-regulation of the amygdala. The sex-specific coupling between the amygdala and the frontal cortex in interaction with the hormone levels may drive sex-specific differences in a variety of behavioral phenomena that are further associated with psychiatric illnesses that show sex-specific prevalence rates.
Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis in Patients with Calcaneal Spurs: Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation or Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy?
Authors: Tas Nevsun Pihtili , Kaya Oğuz
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: We aimed to compare the effectiveness of ESWT (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy) and RFA (Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation) on pain, disability, and activity limitation in the treatment of plantar fasciitis in patients with calcaneal spurs. Materials and Methods: Patients who apply to Orthopedics and Traumatology and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation departments with a complaint of heel pain are included in this retrospective study. We included patients diagnosed with calcaneal spurs who received treatment with ESWT (n = 80) and RFA (n = 79) between 1 August 2021 and 1 September 2022. All patients were evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Foot Function Index (FFI), and the Roles and Maudsley score (RM) before and after treatment. An evaluation was performed on average 6 months after treatment. Results: This study included 79 RFA patients (34 females and 45 males) with a mean age of 55.8 ± 9.6 years and 80 ESWT patients (20 females and 60 males) with a mean age of 49.1 ± 9.5 years. There was a significant decrease in VAS scores after treatment in both the RFA and ESWT groups (z: −4.98, z: −5.18, respectively, p < 0.001). The reductions in FFI pain, FFI activity restriction, FFI disability, and RM scores were significant in both groups, although the scores after treatment were lower in the RFA group. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that ESWT and RFA significantly reduced pain, disability, and activity restriction in the treatment of plantar fasciitis in patients with calcaneal spurs. ESWT proved particularly effective in alleviating pain, whereas RFA had more pronounced effects on reducing disability and activity limitations. The choice of treatment should be based on the patient’s specific complaints.
The Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on Cocaine Addiction: A Narrative Review
Authors: Chmiel James , Chojdak-Łukasiewicz Justyna , Leszek Jerzy
Published: October 2023

Cocaine addiction is a significant problem worldwide. The development of addiction involves a reward system, which consists of certain brain regions like the ventral tegmental area, nucleus accumbens, and prefrontal cortex. Currently, there are no approved medications for treating cocaine dependence, so researchers are actively searching for effective treatments that can impact the brain. One potential treatment under investigation is transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive method of stimulating the brain to modulate its activity. In this review, we explore the use of tDCS in treating cocaine addiction. We found nine relevant articles via a literature search, and the results indicate that applying tDCS to the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) holds promise for reducing drug cravings in individuals with cocaine addiction. The review also discusses the possible mechanisms by which tDCS works and provides recommendations for future research in this field.
Factors Affecting Best-Tolerated Dose of Pirfenidone in Patients with Fibrosing Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Mandovra Neha , Vaidya Preyas , Shah Ria , Nighojkar Aishwarya , Chavhan Vinod , Lohiya Ayush , Leuppi Joerg , Leuppi-Taegtmeyer Anne , Chhajed Prashant
Published: October 2023

The aim of the study was to examine the best-tolerated dose of pirfenidone, the adverse effects profile, and potential factors other than drug dose influencing the tolerability of pirfenidone in patients with fibrosing interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). We performed an observational retrospective study of 113 patients with IPF and other fibrosing ILDs treated with pirfenidone. Baseline liver function tests (LFTs) and dose escalation of pirfenidone were recorded for all patients. The best-tolerated dose was continued if the patient did not tolerate full dose (2400 mg) despite repeated dose escalation attempts. Potential risk factors such as age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), body surface area (BSA), gender, smoking, and presence of comorbidities were analyzed between 3 groups of best-tolerated pirfenidone doses: 2400 mg/day vs. <2400 mg/day, 2400 mg/day vs. 1800 mg/day, and 2400 mg/day vs. 1200 mg/day. A total of 24 patients tolerated 2400 mg/day, and 89 patients tolerated <2400 mg/day (43 tolerated 1800 mg/day, 45 tolerated 1200 mg/day and 1 tolerated 600 mg/day). Patients who tolerated 2400 mg/day were taller and had a larger BSA as compared to those tolerating <2400 mg/day. Overall, males tolerated the drug better. Presence of comorbidities or smoking did not affect the tolerance of pirfenidone, except for the presence of cerebrovascular diseases. Various adverse effects did not have any significantly different frequencies between the compared groups. Moreover, 71.7% of patients experienced at least one side effect. 1200 mg/day was the best-tolerated dose in the majority of the patients. Male patients with a larger BSA and greater height showed better tolerability of pirfenidone overall.
Rock Wool Fiber-Reinforced and Recycled Concrete Aggregate-Imbued Hot Asphalt Mixtures: Design and Moisture Susceptibility Evaluation
Authors: Hussein Farah Khaleel , Ismael Mohammed Qadir , Huseien Ghasan Fahim
Published: October 2023

Designing asphalt mixtures for pavement construction by controlling the moisture-mediated damage remains challenging. With the progression of time, this type of damage can accelerate deterioration via fatigue cracking and rutting unless inhibited. In this study, two types of hot asphalt mixtures (HAMs) were made by incorporating recycled concrete aggregates (RCAs), which were reinforced with rock wool fibers (RWFs). The first specimen was a normal mixture with a completely virgin aggregate, and the second one was a sustainable mixture with 30% RCAs. The proposed mixes were thoroughly characterized to assess the impact of RWF incorporation at various contents (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2%) on moisture resistance. The optimal asphalt concentration (OAC) and volumetric parameters of the mixes were determined using the Marshall technique. The moisture susceptibility of the obtained HAMs was evaluated in terms of the tensile strength ratio (TSR). The results revealed that the moisture resistance, Marshall stability, flow, and volumetric parameters of the HAMs were improved due to the reinforcement by RWFs, indicating a reduction in the moisture sensitivity and an increase in TSR%. In addition, the HAMs designed with 1.5% RWFs displayed the highest TSR% (11.37) and Marshall stability compared to the control mix. The observed improvement in the moisture resistance and Marshall attributes of the prepared HAMs was ascribed to the uniform distribution of the RWFs that caused a well-interconnected structure and tightening in the asphalt concrete matrix. It is asserted that the proposed HAMs can be nominated for the construction of durable high-performance pavements.
Three-Dimensional Hydroelasticity of Multi-Connected Modular Offshore Floating Solar Photovoltaic Farm
Authors: Tay Zhi Yung
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates the hydroelastic responses of offshore floating solar photovoltaic farms (OFPVs). OFPVs usually occupy a large sea space in the order of hectares and structural deformation under wave action has to be taken into consideration due to their huge structural length-to-thickness ratio. The flexible deformation of the structure under hydrodynamic loading is termed the hydroelastic response. In the hydroelastic analysis of an OFPV, the diffraction and radiation of waves have to be taken into account to accurately represent the hydrodynamic loadings on the floating platform. In this study, the numerical model is first validated by comparing the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of an OFPV, obtained from the proposed numerical scheme, with their counterparts obtained from an established finite element software. This is followed by an investigation of the hydroelastic responses of various OFPVs designed in varying layout configurations. The various layout configurations are obtained by altering the floating modular units’ dimensions as well as the spacing of the OFPVs when deployed adjacent to each other. The optimal configuration that gives the best performance in terms of the overall smallest response, known as compliance, is then suggested. The results suggest that a long-ish OFPV layout has a lower hydroelastic response and that the motion could be further reduced by rearranging the layout arrangement to increase the global flexural stiffness.
Role of Adjuvant Radiotherapy in Patients with Cervical Cancer Undergoing Radical Hysterectomy
Authors: Alonso-Espías María , Gorostidi Mikel , Gracia Myriam , García-Pineda Virginia , Diestro María Dolores , Siegrist Jaime , Hernández Alicia , Zapardiel Ignacio
Published: October 2023

The benefit of adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) after radical hysterectomy in patients with cervical cancer remains controversial. The aim of this study was to determine adjuvant RT’s impact on survival in accordance with Sedlis criteria. Patients with early-stage cervical cancer undergoing radical hysterectomy between 2005 and 2022 at a single tertiary care institution were included. A multivariate analysis was performed to determinate if RT was an independent prognostic factor for recurrence or death. We also analysed whether there was a statistically significant difference in overall survival (OS) between patients who met only one or two Sedlis criteria, depending on whether they received adjuvant RT or not. 121 patients were included in this retrospective study, of whom 48 (39.7%) received adjuvant RT due to the presence of unfavourable pathological findings. In multivariate analysis, RT was not found to be a statistically significant prognostic factor for OS (p = 0.584) or disease-free survival (DFS) (p = 0.559). When comparing patients who met one or two Sedlis criteria, there were no statistically significant differences in OS between RT and no adjuvant treatment in either group. Since the selection of patients with cervical cancer eligible for surgery is becoming more accurate, adjuvant RT might not be necessary for patients with intermediate risk factors.
The Launch of a Night Trading Session and Currency Futures Market Liquidity: Evidence from the Thailand Futures Exchange
Authors: Jongadsayakul Woradee
Published: October 2023

The Thailand Futures Exchange launched USD Futures as the first currency futures contract on 5 June 2012. However, it has been available for night trading since 27 September 2021. This research aims to analyze the effect of adding a night trading session on USD Futures market liquidity and to make a liquidity comparison between day and night session trading. By adding a dummy variable into the vector autoregression model of order 5 to capture the effect of a night session introduction on market liquidity, the results show that market depth and breadth are even stronger after a longer trading session. In addition, the t-test results show the presence of lower tightness but stronger depth and breadth in day session trading than in night session trading, because of the availability of a large number of orders and the ability of the market to have smoother trading in day as opposed to night. Due to the positive effect of extended trading hours on market depth and breadth, TFEX should consider a longer night session in line with other global futures markets. Night traders should also be aware of liquidity risk due to low night session trading volume.
Survey of Missouri Landowners to Explore the Potential of Woody Perennials to Integrate Conservation and Production
Authors: Kronenberg Raelin , Lovell Sarah , Thapa Bhuwan , Spinka Christine , Valdivia Corinne , Gold Michael , Bardhan Sougata
Published: October 2023

The state of Missouri, USA offers a unique opportunity for tree planting under several federal conservation programs. However, many landowners remain hesitant to enroll and take land out of agricultural production. This study explores the willingness of landowners to adopt agroforestry systems with food producing tree and shrub species through federal conservation program funding using mail and online surveys. Surveys followed the Dillman Tailored Design Method to collect data on landowners’ farm characteristics, production practices, and land management choices. Survey participants were sampled on a county basis within each of the six major geographic regions of the state. Twelve counties were randomly selected, and surveys were mailed to a proportional sampling of farm addresses gathered from each of the county tax assessor offices. The goal of the survey was to (1) identify landowners’ current land management practices and goals, (2) understand landowners’ perceptions of and preferences for different planting plans for their farm, and (3) capture landowners’ interest in participating in conservation programs to assist in the planting of trees and shrubs on their land. Our analysis of this survey found that landowners are receptive to agroforestry plantings, rating them higher on average than traditional agricultural land management practices. Landowner age, past participation in a conservation program, and presence of marginal land all had significant correlation with willingness to adopt agroforestry. The inclusion of technical assistance or federal conservation funding was found to increase the willingness of landowners to plant multifunctional agroforestry designs.
GIS-Based RUSLE Reservoir Sedimentation Estimates: Temporally Variable C-Factors, Sediment Delivery Ratio, and Adjustment for Stream Channel and Bank Sediment Sources
Authors: Starks Patrick J. , Moriasi Daniel N. , Fortuna Ann-Marie
Published: October 2023

The empirical Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) has been adapted to geographical information system (GIS) frameworks to study the spatial variability of soil erosion across landscapes and has also been used to estimate reservoir sedimentation. The literature presents contradictory results about the efficacy of using RUSLE in a GIS context for quantifying reservoir sedimentation, requiring further evaluation and validation of its estimates relative to measured reservoir sedimentation. Our primary objective was to determine if these contradictory results may be a function of the RUSLE’s inability to account for sediments derived from gullies, stream channels, or stream banks; the temporal variability of some of RUSLE’s empirically based factors such as the land cover/land management (C-) factor; and in some model renditions, the choice of value for the sediment delivery ratio (SDR). The usefulness of adjusting these estimates using a regional representative value of gully/stream bank sediment contributions was also assessed. High-spatial horizontal resolution (2 m) digital elevation models (DEMs) for 12 watersheds were used together with C-factor data for five representative years in a GIS-based RUSLE model that incorporates SDR within a sediment routing routine to study the impacts of choice of C-factor and SDR on reservoir sedimentation estimates. Choice of image date for developing C-factors was found to impact reservoir estimates. We also found that the value of SDR for some of the study watersheds would have to be unrealistically small to produce sedimentation estimates comparable to measured values. Estimates of reservoir sedimentation were comparable to measured data for 5 of the 12 watersheds, when the regionally based adjustment for gully/stream bank contributions was applied. However, differences remained large for the remaining seven watersheds. Statistical analysis revealed that certain combinations of geomorphic, pedologic, or topographic variables could be used to predict the degree of sediment underestimation with a significant and high level of correlation (0.72 < R2 ≤ 0.99; p-value < 0.05). Our findings indicate that the level of agreement between GIS-based RUSLE estimates of reservoir sedimentation and measured values is a function of watershed characteristics; for example, the area-weighted soil erodibility (K-) factor of the soils within the watershed and stream channels, the stream entrenchment ratio and bank full depth, the percentage of the stream corridor having slopes ≥ 21°, and the width of the stream flood way as a percentage of the watershed area. Within the context of GIS, these metrics are easily obtained from digital elevation models and publicly available soils data and may be useful in prioritizing reservoirs’ assessments for function and safety.
Harnessing the Power of Plants: A Green Factory for Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Xu Jianfeng
Published: October 2023

The plant kingdom has long been revered for its complex biochemical pathways, which give rise to an incredible array of bioactive compounds [...]
Aging and Cerebral Glucose Metabolism: 18F-FDG-PET/CT Reveals Distinct Global and Regional Metabolic Changes in Healthy Patients
Authors: Subtirelu Robert Christopher , Teichner Eric Michael , Su Yvonne , Al-Daoud Omar , Patel Milan , Patil Shiv , Writer Milo , Werner Thomas , Revheim Mona-Elisabeth , Høilund-Carlsen Poul Flemming , Alavi Abass
Published: October 2023

Alterations in cerebral glucose metabolism can be indicative of both normal and pathological aging processes. In this retrospective study, we evaluated global and regional neurological glucose metabolism in 73 healthy individuals (mean age: 35.8 ± 13.1 years; 82.5% female) using 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT). This population exhibited a low prevalence of comorbidities associated with cerebrovascular risk factors. We utilized 18F-FDG-PET/CT imaging and quantitative regional analysis to assess cerebral glucose metabolism. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between age and the global standardized uptake value mean (SUVmean) of FDG uptake (p = 0.000795), indicating a decrease in whole-brain glucose metabolism with aging. Furthermore, region-specific analysis identified significant correlations in four cerebral regions, with positive correlations in the basis pontis, cerebellar hemisphere, and cerebellum and a negative correlation in the lateral orbital gyrus. These results were further confirmed via linear regression analysis. Our findings reveal a nuanced understanding of how aging affects glucose metabolism in the brain, providing insight into normal neurology. The study underscores the utility of 18F-FDG-PET/CT as a sensitive tool in monitoring these metabolic changes, highlighting its potential for the early detection of neurological diseases and disorders related to aging.
Rehabilitation of Older Asian Traumatic Brain Injury Inpatients: A Retrospective Study Comparing Functional Independence between Age Groups
Authors: Ratha Krishnan Rathi , Ting Samuel Wen Xuan , Teo Wee Shen , Lim Chien Joo , Chua Karen Sui Geok
Published: October 2023

Across traumatic brain injury (TBI) severities, a geriatric TBI tsunami has emerged. Mixed outcomes are reported for elderly TBI with positive functional improvements with acute inpatient rehabilitation. We studied the effect of age at TBI on discharge functional outcomes, levels of independence and length of stay. A retrospective analysis of Asian TBI patients during inpatient rehabilitation over a 4-year period was conducted. Independent variables included admission GCS, post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) duration and injury subtypes. Primary outcomes were discharge Functional Independence Measure (Td-FIM) and FIM gain. In total, 203 datasets were analysed; 60.1% (122) were aged ≥65 years (older), while 39.9% (81) were <65 years (younger). At discharge, older TBI had a significantly lower Td-FIM by 15 points compared to younger (older 90/126 vs. younger 105/126, p < 0.001). Median FIM gains (younger 27 vs. older 23, p = 0.83) and rehabilitation LOS (older 29.5 days vs. younger 27.5 days, p = 0.79) were similar for both age groups. Older TBIs had significantly lower independence (Td-FIM category ≥ 91) levels (49.4% older vs. 63.9% younger, p = 0.04), higher institutionalisation rates (23.5% older vs. 10.7% younger, p = 0.014) and need for carers (81.5% older vs. 66.4% younger, p = 0.019) on discharge. Although 77% of older TBI patients returned home, a significantly higher proportion needed care. This study supports the functional benefits of TBI rehabilitation in increasing independence regardless of age without incurring longer inpatient rehabilitation days.
Editorial for “Novel Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches in Temporomandibular Disorders and Myofascial Pain” Special Issue in Life
Authors: Nowak Zuzanna
Published: October 2023

In the dynamic and complex field of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), keeping our knowledge up to date is of great importance [...]
Localization of Calretinin, Parvalbumin, and S100 Protein in Nothobranchius guentheri Retina: A Suitable Model for the Retina Aging
Authors: Aragona Marialuisa , Briglia Marilena , Porcino Caterina , Mhalhel Kamel , Cometa Marzio , Germanà Patrizia , Montalbano Giuseppe , Levanti Maria , Laurà Rosaria , Abbate Francesco , Germanà Antonino , Guerrera Maria
Published: October 2023

Calcium-binding proteins (CaBPs) are members of a heterogeneous family of proteins able to buffer intracellular Ca2+ ion concentration. CaBPs are expressed in the central and peripheral nervous system, including a subpopulation of retinal neurons. Since neurons expressing different CaBPs show different susceptibility to degeneration, it could be hypothesized that they are not just markers of different neuronal subpopulations, but that they might be crucial in survival. CaBPs’ ability to buffer Ca2+ cytoplasmatic concentration makes them able to defend against a toxic increase in intracellular calcium that can lead to neurodegenerative processes, including those related to aging. An emergent model for aging studies is the annual killifish belonging to the Nothobranchius genus, thanks to its short lifespan. Members of this genus, such as Nothobranchius guentheri, show a retinal stratigraphy similar to that of other actinopterygian fishes and humans. However, according to our knowledge, CaBPs’ occurrence and distribution in the retina of N. guentheri have never been investigated before. Therefore, the present study aimed to localize Calretinin N-18, Parvalbumin, and S100 protein (S100p) in the N. guentheri retina with immunohistochemistry methods. The results of the present investigation demonstrate for the first time the occurrence of Calretinin N-18, Parvalbumin, and S100p in N. guentheri retina and, consequently, the potential key role of these CaBPs in the biology of the retinal cells. Hence, the suitability of N. guentheri as a model to study the changes in CaBPs’ expression patterns during neurodegenerative processes affecting the retina related both to disease and aging can be assumed.
Investigation of High-Speed Dynamic Transmission Error Testing Using Gear Strain
Authors: Zhang Jian , Lv Chuanmao , Li Zhengminqing
Published: October 2023

The difficulties of testing the dynamic transmission errors of gears in complex environments, such as high-speed operations or situations with oil contamination, and the limited variety of available testing methods have been recognized as issues which this study endeavors to tackle. In this study, a testing method for evaluating high-speed dynamic transmission errors of spur gears through the use of strain sensors is proposed. To reduce the interference of environmental noise on testing signals, physical measures, such as the use of copper foil to shield signal wires and the grounding of data acquisition equipment, were implemented during the testing process. Utilizing wavelet decomposition to distinguish between the high- and low-frequency components of the testing signals, the transmission error of gears during high-speed operation was calculated. After confirming the feasibility of the stress–strain stiffness approach in gear transmission error testing using the magnetic grid method, tests on modified and non-modified gears at various speeds and loads were carried out. The two types of test data were processed and evaluated to determine the effect of speed and load on gear dynamic transmission error. It was possible to conduct research on the testing technique of gear dynamic transmission errors utilizing strain sensors, which provides a new, fast, simple, and practical testing strategy for gear transmission error testing.
Global Asymptotic Stability and Synchronization of Fractional-Order Reaction–Diffusion Fuzzy BAM Neural Networks with Distributed Delays via Hybrid Feedback Controllers
Authors: Syed Ali M. , Stamov Gani , Stamova Ivanka , Ibrahim Tarek F. , Dawood Arafa A. , Osman Birkea Fathea M.
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the global asymptotic stability and global Mittag–Leffler stability of a class of fractional-order fuzzy bidirectional associative memory (BAM) neural networks with distributed delays is investigated. Necessary conditions are obtained by means of the Lyapunov functional method and inequality techniques. The hybrid feedback controllers are then developed to ensure the global asymptotic synchronization of these neural networks, resulting in two additional synchronization criteria. The derived conditions are applied to check the fractional-order fuzzy BAM neural network’s Mittag–Leffler stability and synchronization. Three examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the achieved results.
Ad-Hoc Lanzhou Index
Authors: Ali Akbar , Shang Yilun , Dimitrov Darko , Réti Tamás
Published: October 2023

This paper initiates the study of the mathematical aspects of the ad-hoc Lanzhou index. If G is a graph with the vertex set {x1,…,xn}, then the ad-hoc Lanzhou index of G is defined by Lz˜(G)=∑i=1ndi(n−1−di)2, where di represents the degree of the vertex xi. Several identities for the ad-hoc Lanzhou index, involving some existing topological indices, are established. The problems of finding graphs with the extremum values of the ad-hoc Lanzhou index from the following sets of graphs are also attacked: (i) the set of all connected ξ-cyclic graphs of a fixed order, (ii) the set of all connected molecular ξ-cyclic graphs of a fixed order, (iii) the set of all graphs of a fixed order, and (iv) the set of all connected molecular graphs of a fixed order.
PPVC: Towards a Personalized Local Differential Privacy-Preserving Scheme for V2G Charging Networks
Authors: Qin Peng , Wang Lina
Published: October 2023

The rapid development of electric vehicles provides users with convenience of life. When users enjoy the V2G charging service, privacy leakage of their charging location is a crucial security issue. Existing privacy-preserving algorithms for EV access to charging locations suffer from the problem of nondefendable background knowledge attacks and privacy attacks by untrustworthy third parties. We propose a personalized location privacy protection scheme (PPVC) based on differential privacy to meet users’ personalized EV charging requirements while protecting their privacy. First, by constructing a decision matrix, PPVC describes recommended routes’ utility and privacy effects. Then, a utility model is constructed based on the multiattribute theory. The user’s privacy preferences are integrated into the model to provide the route with the best utility. Finally, considering the privacy preference needs of users, the Euclidean distance share is used to assign appropriate privacy budgets to users and determine the generation range of false locations to generate the service request location with the highest utility. The experimental results show that the proposed personalized location privacy protection scheme can meet the service demands of users while reasonably protecting their privacy to provide higher service quality. Compared with existing solutions, PPVC improves the charging efficiency by up to 25%, and 8% at the same privacy protection level.
Mathematical Modeling Reveals Mechanisms of Cancer-Immune Interactions Underlying Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development
Authors: Shen Juan , Tu Xiao , Li Yuanyuan
Published: October 2023

Understanding the relationship between hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and immunity is crucial for HCC immunotherapy. However, the existing research has solely focused on a novel population of primary tumor-induced non-leukocytes called Ter-cells and their circulating components in distant organs, neglecting the examination of immunity’s impact on cancer. In order to thoroughly examine the dynamics of Ter cells, HCC, and the known regulatory elements in the immunological milieu, we used a mathematical model in the form of a system of differential equations in this work. According to simulation studies, tumor cells cannot be completely eliminated by either the effective killing of HCC by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) or the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation. Nonetheless, continuous CTL activation and TGF-β-induced differentiation of CTL facilitated a transition from a high steady-state of HCC quantity to an unstable state, followed by a low state of HCC quantity, aligning with the three phases of the cancer immunoediting concept (escape, equilibrium, and elimination). Our survival study revealed that the ratio of CTL proliferation to CTL killing and relative TGF-β-induced differentiation of CTL have a significant impact on cancer-free survival. Sensitivity and bifurcation analysis of these parameters demonstrated that the rate of CTL proliferation, as well as the number of HCCs when the production rate reaches half of one, strongly affects the number of HCCs. Our findings highlight the critical role of immune system activation in cancer therapy and its potential impact on HCC treatment.
Spectral Conditions, Degree Sequences, and Graphical Properties
Authors: Zhu Xiao-Min , Liu Weijun , Yang Xu
Published: October 2023

Integrity, tenacity, binding number, and toughness are significant parameters with which to evaluate network vulnerability and stability. However, we hardly use the definitions of these parameters to evaluate directly. According to the methods, concerning the spectral radius, we show sufficient conditions for a graph to be k-integral, k-tenacious, k-binding, and k-tough, respectively. In this way, the vulnerability and stability of networks can be easier to characterize in the future.
A Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Deep Learning-Based Medical Image Adversarial Attack and Defense
Authors: Muoka Gladys W. , Yi Ding , Ukwuoma Chiagoziem C. , Mutale Albert , Ejiyi Chukwuebuka J. , Mzee Asha Khamis , Gyarteng Emmanuel S. A. , Alqahtani Ali , Al-antari Mugahed A.
Published: October 2023

Deep learning approaches have demonstrated great achievements in the field of computer-aided medical image analysis, improving the precision of diagnosis across a range of medical disorders. These developments have not, however, been immune to the appearance of adversarial attacks, creating the possibility of incorrect diagnosis with substantial clinical implications. Concurrently, the field has seen notable advancements in defending against such targeted adversary intrusions in deep medical diagnostic systems. In the context of medical image analysis, this article provides a comprehensive survey of current advancements in adversarial attacks and their accompanying defensive strategies. In addition, a comprehensive conceptual analysis is presented, including several adversarial attacks and defensive strategies designed for the interpretation of medical images. This survey, which draws on qualitative and quantitative findings, concludes with a thorough discussion of the problems with adversarial attack and defensive mechanisms that are unique to medical image analysis systems, opening up new directions for future research. We identified that the main problems with adversarial attack and defense in medical imaging include dataset and labeling, computational resources, robustness against target attacks, evaluation of transferability and adaptability, interpretability and explainability, real-time detection and response, and adversarial attacks in multi-modal fusion. The area of medical imaging adversarial attack and defensive mechanisms might move toward more secure, dependable, and therapeutically useful deep learning systems by filling in these research gaps and following these future objectives.
Development of Two Novel One-Step and Green Microwell Spectrophotometric Methods for High-Throughput Determination of Ceritinib, a Potent Drug for Treatment of Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase-Positive Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Abuhejail Reem M. , Alzoman Nourah Z. , Darwish Ibrahim A.
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: Ceritinib (CER) is a potent drug of the third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor class. CER has been approved for the treatment of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) mutation gene. In the literature, there is no green and high-throughput analytical method for the quantitation of CER in its dosage form (Zykadia® capsules). This study describes, for the first time, the development and validation of two novel one-step and green microwell spectrophotometric methods (MW-SPMs) for the high-throughput quantitation of CER in Zykadia® capsules. Materials and Methods: These two methods were based on an in microwell formation of colored derivatives upon the reaction of CER with two different benzoquinone reagents via two different mechanisms. These reagents were ortho-benzoquinone (OBQ) and 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone (DDQ), and their reactions proceeded via condensation and charge transfer reactions, respectively. The reactions were carried out in 96-well transparent plates, and the absorbances of the colored reaction products were measured with an absorbance microplate reader at 540 and 460 nm for reactions with OBQ and DDQ, respectively. The optimum conditions of reactions were established, their molar ratios were determined, and reaction mechanisms were postulated. Under the refined optimum reaction conditions, procedures of MW-SPMs were established and validated according to the guidelines of the International Council on Harmonization. Results: The limits of quantitation were 6.5 and 10.2 µg/well for methods involving reactions with OBQ and DDQ, respectively. Both methods were applied with great reliability to the determination of CER content in Zykadia® capsules and their drug uniformity. Greenness of the MW-SPMs was evaluated using three different metric tools, and the results proved that the two methods fulfil the requirements of green analytical approaches. In addition, the simultaneous handling of a large number of samples with microvolumes in the proposed methods gave them the advantage of a high-throughput analysis. Conclusions: The two methods are valuable tools for rapid routine application in pharmaceutical quality control units for the quantitation of CER.
Arthroscopic Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer for a Patient with Axillary Nerve Injury and Concomitant Rotator Cuff Tear: A Case Report and Technical Notes
Authors: Loren Jeff , Lu Chuieng-Yi (Johnny) , Yang Cheng-Pang , Hsu Kuo-Yao , Cheng You-Hung , Sheu Huan , Chen Chao-Yu , Tang Hao-Che , Chuang Chieh-An , Chiu Chih-Hao (Joe)
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Concomitant nerve injuries with musculoskeletal injuries present a challenging problem. The goals of nerve reconstruction for the shoulder include shoulder abduction and external rotation. When patients fail to achieve acceptable shoulder external rotation and shoulder abduction, tendon transfers such as trapezius transfer offer a reliable option in the subsequent stage. Case Presentation: A 32-year-old male presented with weak external rotation in his left shoulder, after previous axillary nerve reconstruction. He received the ipsilateral lower trapezius transfer with the aim of improving the external rotation. Discussion: The lower trapezius restores a better joint reaction force in both the compressive–distractive and anterior–posterior balancing and provides a centering force through the restoration of the anterior–posterior force couple. Conclusion: We believe that the ipsilateral lower trapezius transfer to the infraspinatus is a good outcome and is effective in improving overall shoulder stability and the shoulder external rotation moment arm or at least maintaining in neutral position with the arm fully adducted in patients with post axillary nerve injuries post unsatisfactory nerve reconstruction to increase the quality of life and activities of daily living.
Post VV-ECMO Weaning Hyperinflammation—Can Prophylactic Hemoadsorption Treatment Prevent Complications?
Authors: Kovacevic Pedja , Dragic Sasa , Jandric Milka , Momcicevic Danica , Topolovac Sandra , Malesevic Vedrana , Kovacevic Tijana , Matejic-Spasic Marijana , Knezevic Tanja , Zlojutro Biljana
Published: October 2023

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe clinical condition characterized by acute respiratory failure and a high mortality risk despite conventional mechanical ventilatory support. Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (vvECMO) has emerged as an effective life-support technology for patients with ARDS. However, complications may arise following the decannulation of vvECMO, with a relatively frequent development of systemic hyperinflammation (SHI). Among the various treatment strategies for SHI, the use of hemoadsorption with CytoSorb® has shown promising results in removing excessive levels of cytokines and attenuating the hyperinflammatory response. In this case series, we present three critically ill patients with ARDS secondary to pneumonia who underwent vvECMO and subsequently received prophylactic hemoadsorption with CytoSorb® following decannulation as a part of our clinical practice. This case series aims to describe the potential positive effects of hemoadsorption in preventing the development of SHI after vvECMO decannulation in ARDS patients.
Effect of Graphene Oxide and Silver Nanoparticle Hybrid Composite on Acinetobacter baumannii Strains, Regarding Antibiotic Resistance and Prevalence of AMP-C Production
Authors: Lozovskis Povilas , Skrodenienė Erika , Jankauskaitė Virginija , Vitkauskienė Astra
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: Growing antibiotic resistance among bacteria is a global issue that is becoming harder and more expensive to solve. Traditional treatment options are becoming less effective, causing more fatal outcomes of nosocomial infections. Since the development of new antibiotics has stagnated in the last decade, a novel approach is needed. Materials and Methods: Graphene-based materials are being developed and tested for various applications, and the medical field is no exception. We tested 98 clinical A. baumannii strains for antibiotic resistance, AMP-C production and the effectiveness of a graphene oxide and silver nanoparticle hybrid nanocomposite. The disc diffusion method was used to determine antibiotic susceptibility results. Antibiotic discs containing cefotaxime, cloxacillin and clavulanate were used to detect AMP-C production. The effectiveness of the GO–Ag hybrid nanocomposite was determined by counting colony forming units (CFUs) after a suspension of A. baumannii and the GO–Ag hybrid nanocomposite was plated on MH agar and incubated overnight to grow colonies. Results: In our research, we found that A. baumannii strains are resistant to the majority of commonly used antibiotics. Antibiotic resistance levels and AMP-C production can be factors, indicating the better effectiveness of the graphene oxide and silver nanoparticle hybrid nanocomposite. Conclusions: In this study, a GO–Ag hybrid nanocomposite was shown to have the potential to fight even the most problematic bacteria like A. baumannii.
Perioperative Mass Transfusion Affects In-Hospital but Not Follow-Up Survival in Patients with Acute Type A Aortic Dissection
Authors: Benk Julia , Berger Tim , Gottardi Roman , Walter Tim , Kondov Stoyan , Rylski Bartosz , Czerny Martin , Kreibich Maximilian
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of mass transfusion on the postoperative outcome and survival in patients presenting with acute Type A aortic dissection. Materials and Methods: Between 2002 and 2020, a total of 505 patients were surgically treated for an acute Type A aortic dissection. Mass transfusion was defined as the peri- and postoperative replacement by transfusion of 10 units. Patient characteristics and outcomes were analyzed and compared between patients with and without mass transfusion. Results: Mass transfusion occurred in 105 patients (20%). The incidences of symptomatic coronary malperfusion (p = 0.017) and tamponade (p = 0.043) were higher in patients with mass transfusion. There was no statistically significant difference in the distal extension of the aortic dissection between the two groups. A valved conduit was significantly more common in patients with mass transfusion (p = 0.007), while the distal aortic repair was similar between the two groups. Cardiopulmonary bypass time (p < 0.001), cross clamp time (p < 0.001) and in-hospital mortality were significantly higher in patients with mass transfusion (p < 0.001), but the survival after discharge (landmark-analysis) showed equal survival between patients with and without mass transfusion (log rank: p = 0.4). Mass transfusion was predictive of in-hospital mortality (OR: 3.308, p < 0.001) but not for survival after discharge (OR: 1.205, p = 0.661). Conclusions: Mass transfusion is necessary in many patients with acute Type A aortic dissection. These patients present sicker and require longer surgery. However, mass transfusion does not influence survival after discharge.
A Review of Top-Submerged Lance (TSL) Processing—Part I: Plant and Reactor Engineering
Authors: Kandalam Avinash , Reuter Markus A. , Stelter Michael , Reinmöller Markus , Gräbner Martin , Richter Andreas , Charitos Alexandros
Published: October 2023

Part I of this series of papers focuses on plant and reactor engineering aspects of the TSL reactor technology. A general flowsheet is presented, while emphasis is given to the definition of different reactor zones in terms of fluid dynamics and occurring reactions. Then, the technical advantages of TSL processing, such as feed flexibility and high conversion rates (due to induced turbulence), low dust generation, and low fugitive emissions, are explained. In addition, the reactor is analyzed part by part, also taking into account patent literature, focusing on furnace design, settling furnaces for molten phase disengagement, feeding systems regarding input material streams such as concentrates and fuels, vessel cooling arrangements, off-gas system, and aspects associated with the refractory lining. Furthermore, specific focus is given to the centerpiece of the TSL reactor, i.e., the reactor lance. Associated developments have focused on establishing a slag coating to hinder lance wear, i.e., the development of cooling mechanisms (e.g., use of fluid-cooled lance and shroud arrangements), the increment of O2 enrichment within the incoming air stream, and influencing of fluid dynamics (e.g., O2 conversion at the lance tip, bubble formation, and bath splashing). Finally, comprehensive tables concerning process developments and commissioned TSL plants are provided thus concluding Part I of the review.
Mechanical Characteristics and Corrosion Behavior of Two New Titanium Alloys
Authors: Voiculescu Ionelia , Brito-Garcia Santiago Jose , González-Díaz Óscar M. , Mirza-Rosca Julia
Published: October 2023

While Ti6Al4V is one of the most used titanium alloys in the biomaterials field, it is not without its challenges and limitations, among which very important is the modulus mismatch with the bone. This modulus mismatch can lead to stress shielding potentially leading to bone resorption and implant loosening. Researchers continue to explore alternative materials and modifications to address this challenge and improve the performance of biomaterials. Two new fabricated titanium alloys Ti-10Al and Ti-4Fe are analyzed in this paper from corrosion and elastic modulus points of view. Metallography, microhardness, open circuit potential, DC electrochemical linear polarization, and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy were performed. It was found that the corrosion resistance measurement for the Ti4Fe alloy is two orders of magnitude lower than for the Ti10Al alloy as determined by the equivalent circuit simulation, which is also supported by the similar disparity in the corrosion rate values for the two alloys which was determined using the DC method. The modulus of elasticity values were fairly close, hovering about 35GPa, and were lower than those of many commercial alloys.
Deposition of Superconducting Nb3Sn Coatings Using Multiple Magnetron Sputtering Techniques
Authors: Yurjev Yuriy , Savelev Aleksandr , Yurjeva Alena , Kazimirov Artem , Kharisova Anastasiia
Published: October 2023

This paper describes the elemental and phase composition, microstructure, and superconducting properties of Nb3Sn deposited by magnetron sputtering. The films were deposited on sapphire substrates using three different techniques: co-evaporation, layer-by-layer deposition of Nb and Sn, and sputtering of a stoichiometric Nb3Sn target. The influence of magnetron operation mode on the as-deposited film element composition is described. After high-temperature annealing at 700–900 °C, the results indicate the formation of superconductive films. The highest critical temperature of 16.9 K was obtained for the film deposited at a stoichiometric Nb3Sn target and annealed at a temperature of 800 °C for 12 h. These results could be used for superconducting radio-frequency applications.