bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Big Data System Architecture to Support the Monitoring of Paved Roads
Authors: Oliveira e Sá Jorge , Rebelo Francisco , Silva Diogo , Teles Gabriel , Ramos Diogo , Romeu José
Published: November 2023

Today, everything is connected, including the exchange of data and the generation of new information. As a result, large amounts of data are being collected at an ever-increasing rate and in a variety of forms, a phenomenon now known as Big Data. Recent developments in information and communication technologies are driving the generation of significant amounts of data from multiple sources, namely sensors. In response to these technological advances and data challenges, this paper proposes a Big Data system architecture for paved road monitoring and implements part of this architecture on a section of road in Portugal as a case study. The challenge in the case study architecture is to collect and process sensor data in real time, at a rate of 500 records per second, producing 15 GBytes of data per day, using a real-time data stream for real-time monitoring and a batch data stream for deeper analysis. This allows users to obtain instant updates on road conditions such as the number of vehicles, loads, weather, and pavement temperatures on the road. They can monitor what is happening on the road in real time, receive alerts, and even gain insight into historical data, such as analysing the condition of structures or identifying traffic patterns.
Simple Synthesis and Characterization of Cobalt Ferrite Nanoparticles for the Successful Adsorption of Indigo Carmine Dye from Aqueous Media
Authors: Al-Wasidi Asma S. , Abdelrahman Ehab A.
Published: November 2023

Indigo carmine dye falls into the category of toxic chemicals, potentially leading to irritation and allergic reactions in certain individuals. Thus, this study employed the Pechini sol–gel strategy to easily produce CoFe2O4 nanoparticles, which serve as an effective adsorbent for the disposal of indigo carmine dye from aqueous solutions. The maximum adsorption capacity of CoFe2O4 for indigo carmine dye was determined to be 421.94 mg/g. The synthesized CoFe2O4 nanoparticles exhibited an average crystallite size of 18.75 nm. SEM analysis revealed that these nanoparticles were nearly spherical, with an average grain size of 198.32 nm. Additionally, TEM analysis indicated a fully agglomerated spherical morphology for the CoFe2O4 sample, with an average diameter of 15.37 nm. The EDS spectrum confirmed that the synthesized CoFe2O4 nanoparticles consisted of Co, Fe, and O elements, with respective weight percentages of 17.82%, 49.46%, and 32.72%. The removal of indigo carmine dye by the synthesized CoFe2O4 is spontaneous, chemical, exothermic, closely fitting the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, and demonstrating a strong concordance with the Langmuir equilibrium isotherm.
The Use of Rapid Precipitation to Synthesise Multivariate UiO-66 Metal–Organic Frameworks for Photocatalysis
Authors: Ezzatpour Ghadim Ehsan , Walker Marc , Walton Richard I.
Published: November 2023

A rapid synthesis method is used to form multivariate metal–organic frameworks (MTV-MOFs) with the UiO-66 structure, where precipitation occurs upon mixing solutions of ligands and metal salts at temperatures less than 60 °C. The materials include mixtures of metals and ligands, Ce/Zr-UiO-66(1,4-NDC/BDC), Ce/Zr-UiO-66(1,4-NDC/2,6-NDC), Ce/Zr-UiO-66(1,4-NDC), Ce/Ti-UiO-66(1,4-NDC), and Ce/Ti-UiO-66(BDC-NH2) (NDC = naphthalene dicarboxylate, BDC = benzene-1,4-dicarboxylate, BDC-NH2 = 2-amino-benzene-1,4-dicarboxylate). Phase purity was determined by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), with a broadening of the profile indicative of nanoscale crystallites, verified by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The molar ratio of metals and organic ligands in Ce/Zr-UiO-66(1,4-NDC/2,6-NDC) was confirmed by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and solution 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) after digestion, respectively. Analysis of the adsorption of dyes by the MTV-MOFs showed that a pseudo-first-order model accounts for the kinetics. The effectiveness of photocatalytic degradation of two cationic (methylene blue and rhodamine B) and two anionic (Congo red and Alizarin Red S (AR)) dyes was studied under UV and visible light. The most effective photocatalytic degradation was found between 1 and 15 min towards both cationic and anionic dyes by Ce/Zr-UiO-66(1,4-NDC/2,6-NDC). Measurements of recyclability and photostability showed retention of crystallinity after five cycles of use and exposure to light for 17 h, as confirmed by PXRD.
Charge Resolution Study on AMS-02 Silicon Layer-0 Prototype
Authors: Ubaldi Alessio , Graziani Maura
Published: November 2023

The work presented in this paper represents a preliminary study on the performance of the new Silicon tracker layer, Layer 0 (L0), that will be installed on top of the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS-02), at the end of 2024. AMS-02 is a cosmic ray (CR) detector that has been operating on the International Space Station (ISS) since May 2011. Thanks to its nine-layer Silicon tracker, this apparatus can perform high-energy CR measurements with an unprecedented level of statistics and precision. However, high-Z (Z ≥ 15) CR nuclei statistics is strongly affected by fragmentation along the detector: with the installation of the new Silicon layer, it will be possible to achieve new unique high-energy (TeV region) measurements of those nuclei along with increased statistics for all nuclei up to Zinc. To achieve this, a Silicon ladder prototype, which will be part of the final Silicon layer, was exposed to an ion test beam at the super-proton synchrotron (SPS) of CERN to characterize its charge resolution and the readout electronics. Preliminary results have shown a charge resolution of 10 % for nuclei up to Z = 7.
Association of Coronary Collaterals and Myocardial Salvage Measured by Serial Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging after Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Pec Jan , Buchner Stefan , Wester Michael , Debl Kurt , Hamer Okka W. , Poschenrieder Florian , Maier Lars S. , Arzt Michael , Stadler Stefan
Published: November 2023

Background: Coronary collateral flow in angiography has been linked with lower mortality rates in patients with coronary artery disease. However, the relevance of the underlying mechanism is sparse. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), relevant coronary collateral flow is associated with more salvaged myocardium and lower risk of developing heart failure. Methods and Results: Patients with first AMI who received a percutaneous coronary intervention within 24 h after symptom onset were classified visually by assigning a Cohen–Rentrop Score (CRS) ranging between 0 (no collaterals) and 3 (complete retrograde filling of the occluded vessel). All 36 patients included in the analysis underwent cardiac magnetic resonance examination within 3 to 5 days after myocardial infarction and after 12 weeks. Patients with relevant collateral flow (CRS 2–3) to the infarct-related artery had significantly smaller final infarct size compared to those without (7 ± 4% vs. 20 ± 12%, p < 0.001). In addition, both groups showed improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction early after AMI, whereas the recovery was greater in CRS 2–3 (+8 ± 5% vs. +3 ± 5%, p = 0.015). Conclusion: In patients with first AMI, relevant collateral flow to the infarct-related artery was associated with more salvaged myocardium at 12 weeks, translating into greater improvement of systolic left ventricular function. The protective effect of coronary collaterals and the variance of infarct location should be further investigated in larger studies.
Reference Values for Inward Displacement in the Normal Left Ventricle: A Novel Method of Regional Left Ventricular Function Assessment
Authors: Hegeman Romy R. M. J. J. , McManus Sean , Tóth Attila , Ladeiras-Lopes Ricardo , Kitslaar Pieter , Bui Viet , Dukker Kayleigh , Harb Serge C. , Swaans Martin J. , Ben-Yehuda Ori , Klein Patrick , Puri Rishi
Published: November 2023

Background: Regional functional left ventricular (LV) assessment using current imaging techniques remains limited. Inward displacement (InD) has been developed as a novel technique to assess regional LV function via measurement of the regional displacement of the LV endocardial border across each of the 17 LV segments. Currently, normal ranges for InD are not available for clinical use. The aim of this study was to validate the normal reference limits of InD in healthy adults across all LV segments. Methods: InD was analyzed in 120 healthy subjects with a normal LV ejection fraction, using the three standard long-axis views obtained during cardiac MRI that quantified the degree of inward endocardial wall motion towards the true LV center of contraction. For all LV segments, InD was measured in mm and expressed as a percentage of the theoretical degree of maximal segment contraction towards the true LV centerline. The arithmetic average InD was obtained for each of the 17 segments. The LV was divided into three regions, obtaining average InD at the LV base (segments 1–6), mid-cavity (segments 7–12) and apex (segments 13–17). Results: Average InD was 33.4 ± 4.3%. InD was higher in basal and mid-cavity LV segments (32.8 ± 4.1% and 38.1 ± 5.8%) compared to apical LV segments (28.6 ± 7.7%). Interobserver variability correlations for InD were strong (R = 0.80, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: We provide clinically meaningful reference ranges for InD in subjects with normal LV function, which will emerge as an important screening and assessment imaging tool for a range of HFrEF therapies.
A New Method for Assessing Patients’ Obesity-Associated Infection Risk Using X-rays in Hip Arthroplasties
Authors: Breden Sebastian , Hinterwimmer Florian , Beischl Simone , Consalvo Sarah , Gersing Alexandra S. , Lenze Ulrich , von Eisenhart-Rothe Rüdiger , Knebel Carolin
Published: November 2023

Overweight patients have higher complication rates during and after surgical procedures. In total hip arthroplasty (THA), postoperative infection is a major complication. In this study, we show that the patient’s body mass index (BMI) can be approximated by a newly developed grading system using preoperative X-rays. Furthermore, we show that a higher score and BMI result in a higher risk of infection. For this retrospective study, 635 patients undergoing THA or revision surgeries in 2018 and 2019 were included. The preoperatively acquired X-rays of the pelvis were analyzed using a four-stage grading system. The infection rate was compared to our score and the patients’ BMI. The mean BMI (95% confidence) of all patients graded as grade 0 was 25.16 (24.83; 25.50) kg/m2, for grade 1, it was 30.31 (29.52; 31.09) kg/m2, for grade 2, it was 35.06 (33.59; 36.54) kg/m2, and it was 45.03 (39.65; 50.41) kg/m2 for grade 3. The risk of infection was 4% in patients with normal radiographs, rising from 7% in patients graded as 1 up to 18% in each of the highest categories. This study shows that we were able to create a semi-quantitative grading tool for the abdominal contour displayed on X-rays of the pelvis in order to estimate the patients’ BMI and therefore the infection rate. A higher abdominal contour grade showed higher infection rates at follow-up.
Ten-Year Single-Center Study Examining Patient Survival after Commencing Long-Term Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Venegas-Ramírez Jesús , Barrios-Mora Karla Esmeralda , Ríos-Bracamontes Eder Fernando , Guzmán-Esquivel José , Cárdenas-Rojas Martha Irazema , Murillo-Zamora Efrén
Published: November 2023

In patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), peritoneal dialysis (PD) is increasingly being adopted in developing nations due to its cost-effectiveness and advantages as a home-based treatment. However, the survival outcomes of chronic PD patients in Mexico, where the burden of ESKD is high, remain poorly understood. This study aimed to assess the survival experience of long-term PD patients and evaluate its determinants. A single-center cohort study collected clinical and epidemiological data for long-term PD initiations between February 2013 and January 2023. The analysis, which utilized Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional hazard regression methods, included data from 370 patients. The overall mortality rate was 4.7 per 1000 person-months, with a significant decrease in survival rates observed between months 24 and 36 post-PD initiation. Older age at PD initiation and the use of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, as compared to the automated modality, were associated with an increased risk of mortality. The study provides valuable insights into the survival outcomes of chronic PD patients in Mexico and suggests the need to optimize treatment strategies to enhance long-term prognoses for patients with ESKD. Further research is needed to better understand the factors influencing survival in this population.
The Need for Earlier Diagnosis of Obstructed Hemivagina and Ipsilateral Renal Agenesis/Anomaly (OHVIRA) Syndrome in Case of Renal Agenesis in Girls—Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Lecka-Ambroziak Agnieszka , Skobejko-Włodarska Lidia , Ruta Hanna
Published: November 2023

Obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal agenesis/anomaly (OHVIRA) syndrome is a very rare condition affecting girls. The time of diagnosis varies, from cases of prenatal diagnosis up to adulthood, including pregnancy or delivery. Most commonly, it is recognised during puberty and usually as an acute condition. We present a case report of an adolescent girl who underwent the treatment because of acute abdominal pain. The case is interesting due to a previous diagnosis of one-side renal agenesis. It appears to be useful to perform a diagnostic pelvic imaging at the time of diagnosis of renal agenesis or to plan to perform it at the beginning of puberty, to prevent the need for urgent surgery. This management may allow the planning of proper follow-up, minimising the risk of possible complications.
Neurobiology of Coughing in Children
Authors: Mazzone Stuart B.
Published: November 2023

A cough is one of several defensive responses that protect and clear the airways of inhaled, aspirated or locally produced chemicals and matter. The neural components needed to initiate a cough begin to develop in utero, and at birth the airways and lungs already have a rich supply of sensory and motor-neural innervation. However, a cough is not always the primary defensive response to airway challenge in very young infants, but instead develops in the first postnatal months and matures further into puberty. Consequently, the clinical presentation of a troublesome cough in children may not be the same as in adults, exemplified by important differences in cough sensitivity and hypersensitivity between children and adults. This review will summarise key anatomical and functional concepts in airway neurobiology that may improve understanding of coughs in children.
Initial Experience with the Solitaire X 3 mm Stent Retriever for the Treatment of Distal Medium Vessel Occlusions
Authors: Ntoulias Nikos , Brehm Alex , Tsogkas Ioannis , Jesser Jessica , Caragliano Antonio Armando , Demerath Theo , van Es A. C. G. M. , Gruber Phillip , Vega Pedro , Lüttich Alex , Nayak Sanjeev , Fandiño Eduardo , Ribo Marc , Rodriguez Paz Carlos Manuel , Möhlenbruch Markus A. , Tessitore Agostino , Remonda Luca , Murias Eduardo , Blackham Kristine Ann , Psychogios Marios-Nikos
Published: November 2023

Endovascular therapy (EVT) is the standard treatment for ischemic stroke caused by a large vessel occlusion (LVO). The effectiveness of EVT for distal medium vessel occlusions (MDVOs) is still uncertain, but newer, smaller devices show potential for EVT in MDVOs. The new Solitaire X 3 mm device offers a treatment option for MDVOs. Our study encompassed consecutive cases of primary and secondary MDVOs treated with the Solitaire X 3 mm stent-retriever as first-line EVT device between January and December 2022 at 12 European stroke centers. The primary endpoint was a first-pass near-complete or complete reperfusion, defined as a modified treatment in cerebral infarction (mTICI) score of 2c/3. Additionally, we examined reperfusion results, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores at 24 h and discharge, device malfunctions, complications and procedural technical parameters. Sixty-eight patients (38 women, mean age 72 ± 14 years) were included in our study. Median NIHSS at admission was 11 (IQR 6–16). In 53 (78%) cases, a primary combined approach was used as the frontline technique. Among all enrolled patients, first-pass mTICI 2c/3 was achieved in 22 (32%) and final mTICI 2c/3 in 46 (67.6%) patients after a median of 1.5 (IQR 1–2) passes. Final reperfusion mTICI 2b/3 was observed in 89.7% of our cases. We observed no device malfunctions. Median NIHSS at discharge was 2 (IQR 0–4), and no symptomatic intracranial hemorrhages were reported. Based on our analysis, the utilization of the Solitaire X 3 mm device appears to be both effective and safe for performing EVT in cases of MDVO stroke.
International Classification of Diseases-10th Revision Surrogates of the Modified Frailty Index and 12-Month Referral to the Hospital in an Older Population from Germany
Authors: Kostev Karel , Altmann Verena , Haro Josep Maria , Koyanagi Ai , Tanislav Christian , Gyasi Razak M. , Jacob Louis
Published: November 2023

Background: The International Classification of Diseases-10th revision (ICD-10) surrogates of the modified frailty index (mFI) have been defined in recent research. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of these ICD-10 surrogates and their association with hospital referral in an older population from Germany. Methods: The present sample included adults aged ≥65 years followed in German general practices between 2010 and 2021. The index date was the most recent visit date. There were 11 ICD-10 surrogates of the mFI, including a total of 52 diagnoses. These surrogates were assessed in the 12 months prior to the index date. Referral to the hospital was analyzed in the 12 months following the index date. Covariates included age and sex. Results: There were 1,406,038 patients included in the study (mean (standard deviation) age 77.0 (7.9) years; 56.2% women). The prevalence of the ICD-10 surrogates of the mFI ranged from 3.3% for a “history of transient ischemic attack or stroke without neurological deficit” to 68.1% for a “history of hypertension requiring medication”. In addition, 24%, 37%, and 23% of participants had 1, 2–3, and >3 ICD-10 surrogates of the mFI, respectively. There was a positive and significant relationship between the number of ICD-10 surrogates and 12-month incident hospital referral (reference: 0 surrogate; 1 surrogate: HR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.31–1.42; 2–3 surrogates: HR = 2.00, 95% CI = 1.93–2.08; >3 surrogates: HR = 3.32, 95% CI = 3.19–3.44). Conclusions: ICD-10 surrogates of the mFI were relatively frequent and were significantly associated with 12-month incident hospital referral in this sample of older adults from general practices in Germany.
The Psychological and Medical Landscape of Anorexia Nervosa over a Decade: A Retrospective Study of Possible Physical and Psychological Shifts
Authors: Meneguzzo Paolo , Di Pascoli Lorenza , Bindolo Maria , Collantoni Enrico , Meregalli Valentina , Zanetti Tatiana , Veronese Angela , Tenconi Elena , Favaro Angela
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the definition, clinical characteristics, and psychological aspects of anorexia nervosa (AN) have undergone notable changes, influenced by various factors such as biology, psychology, and the environment. The COVID-19 pandemic is one such external factor that has been preliminarily identified as affecting the clinical presentation of AN. This study specifically aims to assess the alterations in psychological and medical features observed in individuals with AN during the pandemic. This study is a retrospective case review of 252 people diagnosed with AN from two different cohorts: 2010–2012 and 2021. A comparison of psychological and medical data was conducted to identify specific differences in the initial clinical evaluation. Additionally, different effects of the pandemic on age cohorts were assessed, with a focus on distinctions between adolescents and adults. Results revealed that the pandemic cohort had a higher number of new cases, with patients being younger and experiencing more severe psychological symptoms. Hospitalization rates upon first access were also elevated, but no significant differences in medical values were observed. Adolescents during the pandemic showed increased episodes of binge eating, decreased obsessive–compulsive symptoms, and greater difficulty in interoceptive awareness. This study reveals distinct differences in symptomatology among patients, with a particular focus on psychological characteristics such as impulsive behaviors and interoceptive awareness. These behavioral and interoceptive changes could have potential considerations in the treatment pathway. Further investigations are warranted to gain a deeper understanding of the evolving clinical presentation of anorexia nervosa after the pandemic.
Non-Invasive Monitoring during Caesarean Delivery: Prevalence of Hypotension and Impact on the Newborn
Authors: Vasile Francesco , La Via Luigi , Murabito Paolo , Tigano Stefano , Merola Federica , Nicosia Tiziana , De Masi Giuseppe , Bruni Andrea , Garofalo Eugenio , Sanfilippo Filippo
Published: November 2023

Background: The aim of our study was to investigate the prevalence of perioperative hypotension after spinal anesthesia for cesarean section using non-invasive continuous hemodynamic monitoring and its correlation with neonatal well-being. Methods: We included 145 patients. Spinal anesthesia was performed with a combination of hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5% (according to a weight/height scheme) and fentanyl 20 μg. Hypotension was defined as a mean arterial pressure (MAP) < 65 mmHg or <60 mmHg. We also evaluated the impact of hypotension on neonatal well-being. Results: Perioperative maternal hypotension occurred in 54.5% of cases considering a MAP < 65 mmHg and in 42.1% with the more conservative cut-off (<60 mmHg). Severe neonatal acidosis occurred in 1.4% of neonates, while an Apgar score ≥ 9 was observed in 95.9% at 1 min and 100% at 5 min. Conclusions: Continuous non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring allowed an early detection of maternal hypotension leading to a prompt treatment with satisfactory results considering neonatal well-being.
Indirect Insulin Resistance Indices and Their Cut-Off Values for the Prediction of Post-Transplantation Diabetes Mellitus in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Sokooti Sara , Szili-Török Tamás , Heerspink Hiddo J. L. , Dullaart Robin P. F. , Bakker Stephan J. L.
Published: November 2023

Background: Insulin resistance plays an important role in the development of post-transplantation diabetes mellitus (PTDM) in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Current methods for the direct determination of insulin resistance are complicated and invasive. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relevance of indirect insulin resistance indices in relation to the development of PTDM in KTRs. Methods: We included 472 stable outpatient KTRs without diabetes at baseline from a prospective cohort study. Four indirect insulin resistance indices, namely homeostasis model assessment–insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), visceral adiposity index (VAI), lipid accumulation product (LAP), and triglycerides–glucose (TyG) index, were assessed. We analyzed each measure using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for PTDM development. The optimal cut-off value for each parameter was determined using the Youden index. Results: After a median of 9.6 years (interquartile range (IQR) 6.6–10.2) of follow-up, 68 (14%) KTRs developed PTDM. In Cox regression analyses, all indirect insulin resistance indices associated with incident PTDM were independent of potential confounders. ROC curve was 0.764 (95% CI, 0.703–0.826) for HOMA-IR, 0.685 (95% CI, 0.615–0.757) for VAI, 0.743 (95% CI, 0.678–0.808) for LAP, and 0.698 (95% CI, 0.629–0.766) for TyG index, with respective optimal cut-off values of 2.47, 4.01, 87.0, and 4.94. Conclusions: Indirect insulin resistance indices can be used to predict incident PTDM in KTRs. In addition to HOMA-IR, insulin-free surrogates of insulin resistance might serve as useful methods to identify KTRs at risk of PTDM, thus obviating the necessity to measure insulin.
Microstructure of Selective Laser Melted 316L under Non-Equilibrium Solidification Conditions
Authors: Özel Emre Firat , Pede Dennis , Müller Claas , Thomann Yi , Thomann Ralf , Mozaffari-Jovein Hadi
Published: November 2023

In this study, the microstructural properties of selective laser melted 316L stainless steel were investigated using optical, scanning and transmission electron microscopy as well as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results show a very fine microstructure with visible melt pool boundaries and austenite as the predominant phase. Extremely fine sub-grain structures can be found within the grains, consisting of colonies of round or elongated cellular structures depending on orientations. Due to the prevailing cooling and solidification conditions, micro-segregations occur, leading to enrichment of the sub-grain boundaries with alloying elements such as silicon, chromium, manganese and molybdenum. The presence of ferrite could be detected in this area using TEM analysis.
Depth Spatial Characterization of Marine Environmental Noise in the Zengmu Basin
Authors: Cui Xiaoming , Cang Siyuan , Li Chao , Tang Danling , Hu Qing , Yang Huayong
Published: November 2023

Based on the measured data obtained from an array of optical fiber hydrophones, this paper analyzes and interprets the depth spatial spectrum characteristics, correlation characteristics, and vertical directionality of marine environmental noise in the Zengmu Basin. The analysis is conducted within the frequency range of 20 Hz to 2500 Hz. Additionally, the statistical characteristics of the probability density distribution of environmental noise in the Zengmu Basin were studied and analyzed. The findings indicate that the predominant ambient noise in the low-frequency range (less than 400 Hz) in the Zengmu Basin is primarily attributed to distant sources, commonly identified as ship radiation noise. In the high-frequency band (greater than 400 Hz), the marine ambient noise is primarily derived from the sea surface, predominantly in the form of wind-generated noise. In the frequency range of 25–1600 Hz, examined in this study, the power spectral density exhibits an average decrease of over 3 dB and a maximum decrease of over 5 dB with each doubling of frequency. When the frequency is below 400 Hz, there is a higher vertical spatial correlation to ambient noise. The vertical directivity of the noise energy is horizontal, meaning that it is perpendicular to the vertical array direction. Additionally, the probability distribution of the noise level approximately follows the Burr distribution. When the frequency exceeds 400 Hz, there is a low vertical spatial correlation to noise. The vertical directivity of environmental noise exhibits distinct grooves in the horizontal direction, and the probability distribution of the noise spectrum level generally follows a normal distribution.
Detection Method of Fungal Spores Based on Fingerprint Characteristics of Diffraction–Polarization Images
Authors: Wang Yafei , Zhang Xiaodong , Taha Mohamed Farag , Chen Tianhua , Yang Ning , Zhang Jiarui , Mao Hanping
Published: November 2023

The most significant aspect of promoting greenhouse productivity is the timely monitoring of disease spores and applying proactive control measures. This paper introduces a method to classify spores of airborne disease in greenhouse crops by using fingerprint characteristics of diffraction–polarized images and machine learning. Initially, a diffraction–polarization imaging system was established, and the diffraction fingerprint images of disease spores were taken in polarization directions of 0°, 45°, 90° and 135°. Subsequently, the diffraction–polarization images were processed, wherein the fingerprint features of the spore diffraction–polarization images were extracted. Finally, a support vector machine (SVM) classification algorithm was used to classify the disease spores. The study’s results indicate that the diffraction–polarization imaging system can capture images of disease spores. Different spores all have their own unique diffraction–polarization fingerprint characteristics. The identification rates of tomato gray mold spores, cucumber downy mold spores and cucumber powdery mildew spores were 96.02%, 94.94% and 96.57%, respectively. The average identification rate of spores was 95.85%. This study can provide a research basis for the identification and classification of disease spores.
Hedgehog Dermatophytosis: Understanding Trichophyton erinacei Infection in Pet Hedgehogs and Its Implications for Human Health
Authors: Kottferová Lucia , Molnár Ladislav , Major Peter , Sesztáková Edina , Kuzyšinová Katarína , Vrabec Vladimír , Kottferová Jana
Published: November 2023

Pet hedgehogs, which are increasingly favoured companions, have garnered attention due to their potential as carriers of zoonotic diseases. These small insectivorous mammals, native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, are commonly kept as pets. The encroachment of humans into hedgehog habitats has brought these animals closer to people, raising concerns about disease transmission. This article reviews the current knowledge regarding zoonotic disease associated with pet hedgehogs, with a particular focus on mycotic infections caused by Trichophyton erinacei. Data from various regions and hedgehog species are synthesised to assess the significance of pet hedgehogs as potential reservoirs and transmitters of zoonotic pathogens. Our study highlights the importance of understanding the health risks associated with pet hedgehogs and underscores the need for continued research to mitigate zoonotic disease transmission from these potentially disease-carrying companions.
Dose-Dependent Genetic Resistance to Azole Fungicides Found in the Apple Scab Pathogen
Authors: Heaven Thomas , Armitage Andrew D. , Xu Xiangming , Goddard Matthew R. , Cockerton Helen M.
Published: November 2023

The evolution of azole resistance in fungal pathogens presents a major challenge in both crop production and human health. Apple orchards across the world are faced with the emergence of azole fungicide resistance in the apple scab pathogen Venturia inaequalis. Target site point mutations observed in this fungus to date cannot fully explain the reduction in sensitivity to azole fungicides. Here, polygenic resistance to tebuconazole was studied across a population of V. inaequalis. Genotyping by sequencing allowed Quantitative Trait Loci (QTLs) mapping to identify the genetic components controlling this fungicide resistance. Dose-dependent genetic resistance was identified, with distinct genetic components contributing to fungicide resistance at different exposure levels. A QTL within linkage group seven explained 65% of the variation in the effective dose required to reduce growth by 50% (ED50). This locus was also involved in resistance at lower fungicide doses (ED10). A second QTL in linkage group one was associated with dose-dependent resistance, explaining 34% of variation at low fungicide doses (ED10), but did not contribute to resistance at higher doses (ED50 and ED90). Within QTL regions, non-synonymous mutations were observed in several ATP-Binding Cassette and Major Facilitator SuperFamily transporter genes. These findings provide insight into the mechanisms of fungicide resistance that have evolved in horticultural pathogens. Identification of resistance gene candidates supports the development of molecular diagnostics to inform management practices.
Genome Mining Reveals a Surprising Number of Sugar Reductases in Aspergillus niger
Authors: Mueller Astrid , Xu Li , Heine Claudia , Flach Tila , Mäkelä Miia R. , de Vries Ronald P.
Published: November 2023

Metabolic engineering of filamentous fungi has received increasing attention in recent years, especially in the context of creating better industrial fungal cell factories to produce a wide range of valuable enzymes and metabolites from plant biomass. Recent studies into the pentose catabolic pathway (PCP) in Aspergillus niger have revealed functional redundancy in most of the pathway steps. In this study, a closer examination of the A. niger genome revealed five additional paralogs for the three original pentose reductases (LarA, XyrA, XyrB). Analysis of these genes using phylogeny, in vitro and in vivo functional analysis of the enzymes, and gene expression revealed that all can functionally replace LarA, XyrA, and XyrB. However, they are also active on several other sugars, suggesting a role for them in other pathways. This study therefore reveals the diversity of primary carbon metabolism in fungi, suggesting an intricate evolutionary process that distinguishes different species. In addition, through this study, the metabolic toolkit for synthetic biology and metabolic engineering of A. niger and other fungal cell factories has been expanded.
Synthetic 3D Spinal Vertebrae Reconstruction from Biplanar X-rays Utilizing Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Saravi Babak , Guzel Hamza Eren , Zink Alisia , Ülkümen Sara , Couillard-Despres Sebastien , Wollborn Jakob , Lang Gernot , Hassel Frank
Published: November 2023

Computed tomography (CT) offers detailed insights into the internal anatomy of patients, particularly for spinal vertebrae examination. However, CT scans are associated with higher radiation exposure and cost compared to conventional X-ray imaging. In this study, we applied a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) framework to reconstruct 3D spinal vertebrae structures from synthetic biplanar X-ray images, specifically focusing on anterior and lateral views. The synthetic X-ray images were generated using the DRRGenerator module in 3D Slicer by incorporating segmentations of spinal vertebrae in CT scans for the region of interest. This approach leverages a novel feature fusion technique based on X2CT-GAN to combine information from both views and employs a combination of mean squared error (MSE) loss and adversarial loss to train the generator, resulting in high-quality synthetic 3D spinal vertebrae CTs. A total of n = 440 CT data were processed. We evaluated the performance of our model using multiple metrics, including mean absolute error (MAE) (for each slice of the 3D volume (MAE0) and for the entire 3D volume (MAE)), cosine similarity, peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), 3D peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR-3D), and structural similarity index (SSIM). The average PSNR was 28.394 dB, PSNR-3D was 27.432, SSIM was 0.468, cosine similarity was 0.484, MAE0 was 0.034, and MAE was 85.359. The results demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach in reconstructing 3D spinal vertebrae structures from biplanar X-rays, although some limitations in accurately capturing the fine bone structures and maintaining the precise morphology of the vertebrae were present. This technique has the potential to enhance the diagnostic capabilities of low-cost X-ray machines while reducing radiation exposure and cost associated with CT scans, paving the way for future applications in spinal imaging and diagnosis.
Dual-Period Polarization-Dependent Diffraction Gratings Based on a Polymer-Stabilized Liquid Crystal
Authors: Kajkowska Marta , Chychłowski Miłosz Sławomir , Ertman Sławomir , Lesiak Piotr
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we demonstrate the first ever dual-period diffraction gratings that do not require electrical tuning to obtain the effect of period change. Our method allows for multiplication of the base period by proper modification of the subsequent slits of the grating. The proposed elements are fabricated by selective photopolymerization of a composite based on a nematic liquid crystal. The gratings are formed by polymer stabilization of a liquid crystal in different orientations of the molecules in selected grating slits to allow for period manipulation. The operating principle is based on changing the phase delay introduced by the slits depending on polarization direction of incident light with respect to the director in each type of slit, which allows to change the grating’s period. The proposed technique was successfully utilized to obtain diffraction gratings with either doubling or tripling of the period.
Bonding Strength of Various Luting Agents between Zirconium Dioxide Crowns and Titanium Bonding Bases after Long-Term Artificial Chewing
Authors: Bagegni Aimen , Borchers Justus , Beisel Samuel , Patzelt Sebastian B. M. , Vach Kirstin , Kohal Ralf
Published: November 2023

The use of hybrid abutment crowns bonded extraorally to a titanium bonding base has aesthetic and biological benefits for the prosthetic rehabilitation of oral implants. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of luting agents between a zirconium dioxide crown and the titanium bonding base on crown/abutment retention and the subsequent durability of the prosthetic superstructure. Fifty-six implant abutment samples, all restored with a lower first premolar zirconium dioxide crown, were used and divided into seven groups (n = 8/group) according to the type of luting agent used: group 1, SpeedCEM Plus; group 2, Panavia SA Cement Universal; group 3, Panavia V5; group 4, RelyX Unicem 2 Automix; group 5, VITA ADIVA IA-Cem; group 6, Ketac CEM; and group 7, Hoffmann’s Phosphate Cement. All specimens were subjected to thermomechanical loading (load of 49 N, 5 million chewing cycles and 54.825 thermocycles in water with temperatures of 5 °C and 55 °C). The surviving samples were exposed to a pull-off force until crown debonding from the bonding base. Overall, 55 samples survived the thermomechanical load. Group 2 showed the highest mean pull-off force value (762 N), whereas group 6 showed the lowest mean value (55 N). The differences between the seven groups were statistically significant (ANOVA, p < 0.001). The debonding failure pattern was mainly adhesive and was noticed predominantly at the zirconium dioxide–luting agent interface. Within the scope of the present investigation, it was shown that most of the luting agents are suitable for “cementation” of a zirconium dioxide crown onto a titanium base since the debonding forces are above a recommended value (159 N).
Explainable AI for Material Property Prediction Based on Energy Cloud: A Shapley-Driven Approach
Authors: Qayyum Faiza , Khan Murad Ali , Kim Do-Hyeun , Ko  Hyunseok , Ryu Ga-Ae
Published: November 2023

The scientific community has raised increasing apprehensions over the transparency and interpretability of machine learning models employed in various domains, particularly in the field of materials science. The intrinsic intricacy of these models frequently results in their characterization as “black boxes”, which poses a difficulty in emphasizing the significance of producing lucid and readily understandable model outputs. In addition, the assessment of model performance requires careful deliberation of several essential factors. The objective of this study is to utilize a deep learning framework called TabNet to predict lead zirconate titanate (PZT) ceramics’ dielectric constant property by employing their components and processes. By recognizing the crucial importance of predicting PZT properties, this research seeks to enhance the comprehension of the results generated by the model and gain insights into the association between the model and predictor variables using various input parameters. To achieve this, we undertake a thorough analysis with Shapley additive explanations (SHAP). In order to enhance the reliability of the prediction model, a variety of cross-validation procedures are utilized. The study demonstrates that the TabNet model significantly outperforms traditional machine learning models in predicting ceramic characteristics of PZT components, achieving a mean squared error (MSE) of 0.047 and a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.042. Key contributing factors, such as d33, tangent loss, and chemical formula, are identified using SHAP plots, highlighting their importance in predictive analysis. Interestingly, process time is less effective in predicting the dielectric constant. This research holds considerable potential for advancing materials discovery and predictive systems in PZT ceramics, offering deep insights into the roles of various parameters.
Quasihomeomorphisms and Some Topological Properties
Authors: Dourari Khedidja , Abd El-latif Alaa M. , Lazaar Sami , Mhemdi Abdelwaheb , Al-shami Tareq M.
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we study the properties of topological spaces preserved by quasihomeomorphisms. Particularly, we show that quasihomeomorphisms preserve Whyburn, weakly Whyburn, submaximal and door properties. Moreover, we offer necessary conditions on continuous map q:X→Y where Y is Whyburn (resp., weakly Whyburn ) in order to render X Whyburn (resp., weakly Whyburn). Also, we prove that if q:X→Y is a one-to-one continuous map and Y is submaximal (resp., door), then X is submaximal (resp., door). Finally, we close this paper by studying the relation between quasihomeomorphisms and k-primal spaces.
Almost Nonlinear Contractions under Locally Finitely Transitive Relations with Applications to Integral Equations
Authors: Khan Faizan Ahmad , Aldhabani Musaad S. , Alamer Ahmed , Alshaban Esmail , Alamrani Fahad M. , Mohammed Hamid I. A.
Published: November 2023

This article consists of some new fixed point theorems verifying relation-theoretic strict almost nonlinear contractions that are preserved by a locally finitely transitive relation. Our results improve certain well-known results in the literature. To confirm the reliability of our results, some examples are delivered. We carry out our findings to solve a nonlinear Fredholm integral equation.
Preface to the Special Issue “Abstract Fractional Integro-Differential Equations and Fixed Point Theory with Applications”
Authors: Du Wei-Shih , Kostić Marko , Fedorov Vladimir E. , Pinto Manuel
Published: November 2023

Fractional calculus has played a significant role in modeling complex systems in disciplines such as mathematics, physics, biology, and engineering [...]
Regular, Singular and Hypersingular Integrals over Fractal Contours
Authors: Boykov Ilya , Roudnev Vladimir , Boykova Alla
Published: November 2023

The paper is devoted to the approximate calculation of Riemann definite integrals, singular and hypersingular integrals over closed and open non-rectifiable curves and fractals. The conditions of existence for the Riemann definite integrals over non-rectifiable curves and fractals are provided. We give a definition of a singular integral over non-rectifiable curves and fractals which generalizes the known one. We define hypersingular integrals over non-rectifiable curves and fractals. We construct quadratures for the calculation of Riemann definite integrals, singular and hypersingular integrals over non-rectifiable curves and fractals and the corresponding error estimates for various classes of functions. Singular and hypersingular integrals are defined up to an additive constant (or a combination of constants) that are subject to a convention that depends on the actual problem being solved. We illustrate our theoretical results with numerical examples for Riemann definite integrals, singular integrals and hypersingular integrals over fractals.
Generalized Net Model of Heavy Oil Products’ Manufacturing in Petroleum Refinery
Authors: Stratiev Danail , Dimitriev Angel , Stratiev Dicho , Atanassov Krassimir
Published: November 2023

Generalized nets (GNs) are a suitable tool for the modeling of parallel processes. Through them, it is possible to describe the functioning and results of the performance of complex real processes running in time. In a series of articles, we consistently describe the main processes involved in the production of petroleum products taking place in an oil refinery. The GN models can be used to track the actual processes in the oil refinery in order to monitor them, make decisions in case of changes in the environment, optimize some of the process components, and plan future actions. This study models the heavy oil production process in a refinery using the toolkit of GNs. Five processing units producing ten heavy-oil-refined products in an amount of 106.5 t/h from 443 t/h atmospheric residue feed, their blending, pipelines, and a tank farm devoted to storage of finished products consisting of three grades of fuel oil (very low sulfur fuel oil (0.5%S) —3.4 t/h; low sulfur fuel oil (1.0%S) —4.2 t/h; and high sulfur fuel oil (2.5%S) —66.9 t/h), and two grades of road pavement bitumen (bitumen 50/70 —30 t/h and bitumen 70/100 —2 t/h) are modeled in a GN medium. This study completes the process of modeling petroleum product production in an oil refinery using GNs. In this way, it becomes possible to construct a highly hierarchical model that incorporates the models already created for the production of individual petroleum products into a single entity, which allows for a comprehensive analysis of the refinery’s operations and decision making concerning the influence of various factors such as disruptions in the feedstock supply, the occurrence of unplanned shutdowns, optimization of the production process, etc.
On the Positive Recurrence of Finite Regenerative Stochastic Models
Authors: Morozov Evsey , Rykov Vladimir
Published: November 2023

We consider a general approach to establish the positive recurrence (stability) of regenerative stochastic systems. The approach is based on the renewal theory and a characterization of the remaining renewal time of the embedded renewal process generated by regeneration. We discuss how this analysis is simplified for some classes of the stochastic systems. The general approach is then illustrated by the stability analysis of a k-out-of-n repairable system containing n unreliable components with exponential lifetimes. Then we extend the stability analysis to the system with non-exponential lifetimes.
Chebyshev Interpolation Using Almost Equally Spaced Points and Applications in Emission Tomography
Authors: Marinakis Vangelis , Fokas Athanassios S. , Kastis George A. , Protonotarios Nicholas E.
Published: November 2023

Since their introduction, Chebyshev polynomials of the first kind have been extensively investigated, especially in the context of approximation and interpolation. Although standard interpolation methods usually employ equally spaced points, this is not the case in Chebyshev interpolation. Instead of equally spaced points along a line, Chebyshev interpolation involves the roots of Chebyshev polynomials, known as Chebyshev nodes, corresponding to equally spaced points along the unit semicircle. By reviewing prior research on the applications of Chebyshev interpolation, it becomes apparent that this interpolation is rather impractical for medical imaging. Especially in clinical positron emission tomography (PET) and in single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT), the so-called sinogram is always calculated at equally spaced points, since the detectors are almost always uniformly distributed. We have been able to overcome this difficulty as follows. Suppose that the function to be interpolated has compact support and is known at q equally spaced points in −1,1. We extend the domain to −a,a, a>1, and select a sufficiently large value of a, such that exactlyq Chebyshev nodes are included in −1,1, which are almost equally spaced. This construction provides a generalization of the concept of standard Chebyshev interpolation to almost equally spaced points. Our preliminary results indicate that our modification of the Chebyshev method provides comparable, or, in several cases including Runge’s phenomenon, superior interpolation over the standard Chebyshev interpolation. In terms of the L∞ norm of the interpolation error, a decrease of up to 75% was observed. Furthermore, our approach opens the way for using Chebyshev polynomials in the solution of the inverse problems arising in PET and SPECT image reconstruction.