bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Bruise Damage and Storage on Cucumber Quality
Authors: Al-Hadrami Aysha , Pathare Pankaj B. , Al-Dairi Mai , Al-Mahdouri Adil
Published: May 2023

Bruise damage is one of the mechanical injuries that fresh produce can sustain during the postharvest supply chain. The study investigated the effect of drop impact levels, storage temperatures, and the storage period on the quality changes of cucumbers. A known mass ball was used to damage cucumbers once from three different drop heights (30, 60, and 90 cm) before they were stored for 24 days at 5 °C, 10 °C, and 22 °C. The data showed that the bruise area (BA), bruise susceptibility (BS), yellowness, and chroma* increased with the increase in the drop height and storage temperature. The study found that the bruise area (BA) and bruise susceptibility (BS) of the damaged cucumbers increased substantially (p < 0.05) with the increase in storage temperature and drop height. Due to the increment in drop height, storage temperature, and the storage period, the weight loss (Wl)% significantly increased after 24 days of storage. The storage period affects the firmness of damaged cucumbers stored in all storage conditions. The highest value of lightness (L*) was observed for the cucumbers bruised from the 60 cm drop height and stored at 22 °C with a value of 43.08 on day 24 of storage. Hue*, redness (a*), and total soluble solids (TSS) were all unaffected by the drop height. This study can serve as a resource for horticultural researchers and experts involved in the fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain. The study pays attention to the importance of postharvest supply chain activities, such as handling and storage to maintain the quality and prolong the shelf life of perishable produce, such as cucumbers.
Optimizing Organic Carrot (Daucus carota var. sativus) Yield and Quality Using Fish Emulsions, Cyanobacterial Fertilizer, and Seaweed Extracts
Authors: Wickham Allison , Davis Jessica G.
Published: May 2023

Liquid fertilizers are often used in the middle of the growing season in an attempt to enhance organic carrot (Daucus carota var. sativus) yield and quality, although their effect on plant performance is unproven. The impact of liquid organic fertilizers and foliar seaweed applications on carrot yield and quality characteristics were evaluated on certified organic land at the Colorado State University Horticulture Field Research Center in Fort Collins, CO, USA, in 2014 and 2015. Hydrolyzed and non-hydrolyzed fish fertilizer and cyanobacterial fertilizer (cyano-fertilizer) treatments were applied through a drip irrigation system at prescribed N rates about every 10 days throughout the growing season. Each treatment, including the unfertilized control, was repeated with the addition of concentrated organic seaweed extract, containing phytohormones, applied foliarly at the manufacturer’s recommended rates. The cyano-fertilizer treatment resulted in longer carrots in 2014 and the highest carrot yield in both years, with it consistently yielding equal to or greater than either hydrolyzed or non-hydrolyzed fish fertilizer. The foliar seaweed applications had no effect on carrot yield in either year. The cyano-fertilizer performed comparably to the other fertilizers, suggesting that cyano-fertilizer could be a viable alternative to organic liquid fish fertilizers.
Assessment of Grain Protein in Tropical Sorghum Accessions from the NPGS Germplasm Collection
Authors: Cuevas Hugo E. , Peiris Kamaranga H. S. , Bean Scott R.
Published: May 2023

The development of higher nutritional sorghum varieties requires the identification of high protein content germplasm that expands the genetic diversity of breeding programs. Therefore, a near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy method was developed to predict the protein concentration of whole-grain sorghum with R2 = 0.83, root-mean-square error of prediction = 1.44%, and bias = 0.16%. We evaluated 228 tropical accessions from West and Central Africa maintained by the National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) of the United States for protein content for three years. The analysis found that the protein concentrations among accessions varied from 5.05 to 15.00% with an average of 10.24%. Correlation analysis between years revealed changes in protein content and ranking across years for multiple accessions. However, heritability of protein concentration was moderately high (H2 = 0.81) indicating most of the observed variation could be determined by genetic differences among accessions. Sixteen tropical accessions with the highest protein concentration (>12.84%) may be used in breeding programs for the development of new and improved nutritional varieties. This assessment documented the range of natural variation for protein content in the NPGS sorghum tropical germplasm collection that could be used to enhance breeding programs focused on biofortification.
Sustainable Ornamental Fish Aquaculture: The Implication of Microbial Feed Additives
Authors: Hoseinifar Seyed Hossein , Maradonna Francesca , Faheem Mehwish , Harikrishnan Ramasamy , Devi Gunapathy , Ringø Einar , Van Doan Hien , Ashouri Ghasem , Gioacchini Giorgia , Carnevali Oliana
Published: May 2023

Ornamental fish trade represents an important economic sector with an export turnover that reached approximately 5 billion US dollars in 2018. Despite its high economic importance, this sector does not receive much attention. Ornamental fish husbandry still faces many challenges and losses caused by transport stress and handling and outbreak of diseases are still to be improved. This review will provide insights on ornamental fish diseases along with the measures used to avoid or limit their onset. Moreover, this review will discuss the role of different natural and sustainable microbial feed additives, particularly probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics on the health, reduction in transport stress, growth, and reproduction of farmed ornamental fish. Most importantly, this review aims to fill the informational gaps existing in advanced and sustainable practices in the ornamental fish production.
Human-Animal Interaction in Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAI)s: Zoonosis Risks, Benefits, and Future Directions—A One Health Approach
Authors: Liguori Giovanna , Costagliola Anna , Lombardi Renato , Paciello Orlando , Giordano Antonio
Published: May 2023

Animal-assisted interventions (AAI)s represent the expression of integrated medicine, according to the One Health approach. Actually, animal-assisted therapies and animal-assisted activities are implemented in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, etc. The efficacy of AAIs is based on interspecific interactions and would be impacted by different factors, such as the characters of both the animal and the handler, a suitable selection of animal species, an appropriate animal educational protocol, the relationship between the handler and the animal, and mutual relationship among the animal, the patients, and members of the working team. AAIs produce many advantages for the patients but could expose them to zoonotic-pathogens transmission. Therefore, positive animal welfare, as preventative medicine to avoid incidents or transmission of zoonosis, is a relevant aspect with implications for human and animal health and wellbeing. This review aims to summarize the current published knowledge regarding the occurrence of pathogens in AAIs and to discuss their relevance in light of health and safety in AAIs participants. In addition, this review will contribute to defining the state of the art of AAIs through a careful benefits/challenges analysis and offers discussion points on the possible future developments according to the One Health approach.
Overview of the Potential Beneficial Effects of Carotenoids on Consumer Health and Well-Being
Authors: Crupi Pasquale , Faienza Maria Felicia , Naeem Muhammad Yasir , Corbo Filomena , Clodoveo Maria Lisa , Muraglia Marilena
Published: May 2023

Well-known experimental research demonstrates that oxidative stress is the leading cause of the onset and progression of major human health disorders such as cardiovascular, neurological, metabolic, and cancer diseases. A high concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitrogen species leads to damage of proteins, lipids, and DNA associated with susceptibility to chronic human degenerative disorders. Biological and pharmaceutical investigations have recently focused on exploring both oxidative stress and its defense mechanisms to manage health disorders. Therefore, in recent years there has been considerable interest in bioactive food plant compounds as naturally occurring antioxidant sources able to prevent, reverse, and/or reduce susceptibility to chronic disease. To contribute to this research aim, herein, we reviewed the beneficial effects of carotenoids on human health. Carotenoids are bioactive compounds widely existing in natural fruits and vegetables. Increasing research has confirmed that carotenoids have various biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-diabetic, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory activities. This paper presents an overview of the latest research progress on the biochemistry and preventative and therapeutic benefits of carotenoids, particularly lycopene, in promoting human health. This review could be a starting point for improving the research and investigation of carotenoids as possible ingredients of functional health foods and nutraceuticals in the fields of healthy products, cosmetics, medicine, and the chemical industry.
Influence of Cryogenic Grinding on the Nutritional and Antinutritional Components of Rapeseed Cake
Authors: Kraljić Klara , Škevin Dubravka , Čukelj Mustač Nikolina , Benković Maja , Drakula Saša , Balbino Sandra , Mandura Jarić Ana , Mamilović Karla , Ramljak Ivana , Ćurić Duška
Published: May 2023

We investigated the influence of cryogenic grinding on the quality of rapeseed cake. Rapeseed cake is a good source of valuable proteins (30%) and oil (14%), with a balanced fatty acid composition and a fair amount of sterols, which may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, the presence of antinutritive compounds prevents its use as a food source. Grinding under cryogenic conditions is much more efficient than grinding at room temperature in terms of particle size reduction. The additional cryogenic grinding of the cake had little effect on the nutritional components, as phytosterols and soluble dietary fiber increased slightly. It had no effect on insoluble dietary fiber, polyphenols, and tannins. Prolonged grinding time, both at room and subzero temperatures, reduced the total amount of glucosinolates by 34 and 43%, respectively. However, the reduction in undesirable components is not sufficient to use cryogenic grinding as the sole treatment for the cake, but it could be a good pretreatment for chemical or biological treatments.
A Graduated Non-Convexity Technique for Dealing Large Point Spread Functions
Authors: Boccuto Antonio , Gerace Ivan , Giorgetti Valentina
Published: May 2023

This paper focuses on reducing the computational cost of a GNC Algorithm for deblurring images when dealing with full symmetric Toeplitz block matrices composed of Toeplitz blocks. Such a case is widespread in real cases when the PSF has a vast range. The analysis in this paper centers around the class of gamma matrices, which can perform vector multiplications quickly. The paper presents a theoretical and experimental analysis of how γ-matrices can accurately approximate symmetric Toeplitz matrices. The proposed approach involves adding a minimization step for a new approximation of the energy function to the GNC technique. Specifically, we replace the Toeplitz matrices found in the blocks of the blur operator with γ-matrices in this approximation. The experimental results demonstrate that the new GNC algorithm proposed in this paper reduces computation time by over 20% compared with its previous version. The image reconstruction quality, however, remains unchanged.
Application of Conditioned Medium for In Vitro Modeling and Repair of Respiratory Tissue
Authors: Muhammad Firdaus Fairuz Izan , Nashihah Ab. Karim , Mohd Fauzi Mh. Busra , Manira Maarof , Aminuddin Saim , Lokanathan Yogeswaran
Published: May 2023

Background: The idea of exploring respiratory therapy in vitro predominantly guided by cell-secreted substances has gained ground in recent years. A conditioned medium (CM) consists of protein milieu that contains a diverse spectrum of cytokines, chemokines, angiogenic agents, and growth factors. This review evaluated the efficacy of using CM collected in an in vitro respiratory epithelial model. Methods: Twenty-six papers were included in this review: twenty-one cellular response studies on respiratory secretome application and five studies involving animal research. Results: The CM produced by differentiated cells from respiratory and non-respiratory systems, such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), exhibited the similar overall effect of improving proliferation and regeneration. Not only could differentiated cells from respiratory tissues increase proliferation, migration, and attachment, but the CM was also able to protect the respiratory epithelium against cytotoxicity. Most non-respiratory tissue CM was used as a treatment model to determine the effects of the therapy, while only one study used particle-based CM and reported decreased epithelial cell tight junctions, which harmed the epithelial barrier. Conclusion: As it resolves the challenges related to cell development and wound healing while simultaneously generally reducing the danger of immunological compatibility and tumorigenicity, CM might be a potential regenerative therapy in numerous respiratory illnesses. However, additional research is required to justify using CM in respiratory epithelium clinical practice.
Concept of Virtual Reality Training of Facility Management Employees Using Eye Tracking
Authors: Dybała Jacek , Kordecki Andrzej
Published: May 2023

In facility management, employees’ unique skills and high technical knowledge are necessary to operate buildings efficiently and safely. Employees acquiring professional skills requires the use of an effective training procedure. Traditional facility management training is often challenging because it requires using real devices in a work environment. It is only sometimes possible to stop these devices. Additionally, there is a risk of equipment damage or injury to employees. Therefore, organizing staff training in virtual reality (VR) seems interesting. Properly conducted training of employees in virtual reality allows for the reconstruction of identical test conditions for all participants, thanks to which high comparability of training results is achieved. In addition, virtual training allows for an in-depth analysis of each participant’s results. We can carefully analyze their movement, how they perform a task, and even their attention directed to critical elements. To be able to perform such an in-depth analysis, it was proposed to use eye-tracking technology in the VR glasses used during training and evaluation in the VR environment. Eye movement tracking allows for an accurate analysis of the focus of each participant on the critical elements of the devices in the decision-making process. It enables obtaining much more comprehensive information on the concentration and correctness of the employee’s actions. The result of the conducted research is the development of the concept of a VR environment for training and evaluating facility management staff using eye-tracking technology, enabling employees to improve and verify their qualifications in a very comfortable way without the need to access the existing infrastructure. The developed training procedure also allows the classification of training participants as fast and slow learners, which is very important for the employer, as it identifies employees who require additional training support. The developed approach was verified during the realization of selected training conducted with 100 employees working in facility management and was implemented as a commercially offered training service.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Advanced Technologies in Digitizing Cultural Heritage”
Authors: Katifori Akrivi , Antoniou Angeliki , Damala Areti , Raftopoulou Paraskevi
Published: May 2023

The occurrence of cultural disasters, such as the fire damage at the Notre Dame de Paris in 2019 and at the National Museum of Brazil in 2018, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic highlight that the need to digitize cultural heritage is essential [...]
Space-Time Causality Analysis of Regional Impacts of ENSO on Terrestrial and Oceanic Precipitation
Authors: Alvarez-Socorro Gleisis , Fernández-Alvarez José C. , Gimeno Luis
Published: May 2023

Future changes are expected in precipitation under climate change, therefore, changes are projected in the oceanic and terrestrial components. However, it remains poorly elucidated how the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) can influence these changes. Therefore, we aimed to perform a space-time causality analysis of regional ENSO impacts on terrestrial and oceanic precipitation by using the Granger causality method as a function of eight temporal lags (lags 1–8). The monthly values of total precipitation obtained using the Lagrangian approach and their respective terrestrial (PLT) and oceanic (PLO) components were used. The analysis was performed for the two regions of western North America (WNA) and eastern South America (ESA) with strong ENSO signals. For the WNA region in winter, the maximum Granger causality was observed in the component of oceanic origin for temporal lags 1 and 2 (3 and 6 months), with a predominance of both positive and negative ENSO conditions. For the ESA region, it was verified that the causality of the ENSO index was maximum for PLT. Temporal lags 2–5 (6–15 months) stood out in winter when there was a marked region of the Granger causality over the La Plata Basin. In autumn, for lags 1–4 (3–12 months), the Granger causality values were predominant in the southern and western areas of ESA and showed a tendency to move northward with an increased temporal lag. Finally, it was shown that high correlation values did not imply the causality of the relationship between the ENSO index and precipitation in the two regions.
Remote Detection of Different Marine Fuels in Exhaust Plumes by Onboard Measurements in the Baltic Sea Using Single-Particle Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Rosewig Ellen Iva , Schade Julian , Passig Johannes , Osterholz Helena , Irsig Robert , Smok Dominik , Gawlitta Nadine , Schnelle-Kreis Jürgen , Hovorka Jan , Schulz-Bull Detlef , Zimmermann Ralf , Adam Thomas W.
Published: May 2023

Ship emissions are a major cause of global air pollution, and in particular, emissions from the combustion of bunker fuels, such as heavy fuel oil (HFO), show strong impacts on the environment and human health. Therefore, sophisticated measurement techniques are needed for monitoring. We present here an approach to remotely investigating ship exhaust plumes through onboard measurements from a research vessel in the Baltic Sea. The ship exhaust plumes were detected from a distance of ~5 km by rapid changes in particle number concentration and a variation in the ambient particle size distribution utilizing a condensation particle counter (CPC) and a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) instrument. Ambient single particles in the size range of 0.2–2.5 µm were qualitatively characterized with respect to their chemical signature by single-particle mass spectrometry (SPMS). In particular, the high sensitivity of the measurement method for transition metals in particulate matter (PM) was used to distinguish between the different marine fuels. Despite the high complexity of the ambient aerosol and the adverse conditions at sea, the exhaust plumes of several ships could be analyzed by means of the online instrumentation.
Genetic Evaluation of Prelingual Hearing Impairment: Recommendations of an European Network for Genetic Hearing Impairment
Authors: Jonard Laurence , Brotto Davide , Moreno-Pelayo Miguel A. , del Castillo Ignacio , Kremer Hannie , Pennings Ronald , Caria Helena , Fialho Graça , Boudewyns An , Van Camp Guy , Ołdak Monika , Oziębło Dominika , Deggouj Naïma , De Siati Romolo Daniele , Gasparini Paolo , Girotto Giorgia , Verstreken Margriet , Dossena Silvia , Roesch Sebastian , Battelino Saba , Trebušak Podkrajšek Katarina , Warnecke Athanasia , Lenarz Thomas , Lesinski-Schiedat Anke , Mondain Michel , Roux Anne-Françoise , Denoyelle Françoise , Loundon Natalie , Serey Gaut Margaux , Trevisi Patrizia , Rubinato Elisa , Martini Alessandro , Marlin Sandrine
Published: May 2023

The cause of childhood hearing impairment (excluding infectious pathology of the middle ear) can be extrinsic (embryofoetopathy, meningitis, trauma, drug ototoxicity, noise trauma, etc [...]
Rab3A/Rab27A System Silencing Ameliorates High Glucose-Induced Injury in Podocytes
Authors: Martinez-Arroyo Olga , Flores-Chova Ana , Sanchez-Garcia Belen , Redon Josep , Cortes Raquel , Ortega Ana
Published: May 2023

Diabetic nephropathy is a major complication in diabetic patients. Podocytes undergo loss and detachment from the basal membrane. Intra- and intercellular communication through exosomes are key processes for maintaining function, and the Rab3A/Rab27A system is an important counterpart. Previously, we observed significant changes in the Rab3A/Rab27A system in podocytes under glucose overload, demonstrating its important role in podocyte injury. We investigated the implication of silencing the Rab3A/Rab27A system in high glucose-treated podocytes and analysed the effect on differentiation, apoptosis, cytoskeletal organisation, vesicle distribution, and microRNA expression in cells and exosomes. For this, we subjected podocytes to high glucose and transfection through siRNAs, and we isolated extracellular vesicles and performed western blotting, transmission electron microscopy, RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry assays. We found that silencing RAB3A and RAB27A generally leads to a decrease in podocyte differentiation and cytoskeleton organization and an increase in apoptosis. Moreover, CD63-positive vesicles experienced a pattern distribution change. Under high glucose, Rab3A/Rab27A silencing ameliorates some of these detrimental processes, suggesting a differential influence depending on the presence or absence of cellular stress. We also observed substantial expression changes in miRNAs that were relevant in diabetic nephropathy upon silencing and glucose treatment. Our findings highlight the Rab3A/Rab27A system as a key participant in podocyte injury and vesicular traffic regulation in diabetic nephropathy.
A Systematic Review of Post-Work Core Temperature Cooling Rates Conferred by Passive Rest
Authors: Brearley Matt , Berry Rachel , Hunt Andrew P. , Pope Rodney
Published: May 2023

Physical work increases energy expenditure, requiring a considerable elevation of metabolic rate, which causes body heat production that can cause heat stress, heat strain, and hyperthermia in the absence of adequate cooling. Given that passive rest is often used for cooling, a systematic search of literature databases was conducted to identify studies that reported post-work core temperature cooling rates conferred by passive rest, across a range of environmental conditions. Data regarding cooling rates and environmental conditions were extracted, and the validity of key measures was assessed for each study. Forty-four eligible studies were included, providing 50 datasets. Eight datasets indicated a stable or rising core temperature in participants (range 0.000 to +0.028 °C min−1), and forty-two datasets reported reducing core temperature (−0.002 to −0.070 °C min−1) during passive rest, across a range of Wet-Bulb Globe Temperatures (WBGT). For 13 datasets where occupational or similarly insulative clothing was worn, passive rest resulted in a mean core temperature decrease of −0.004 °C min−1 (−0.032 to +0.013 °C min−1). These findings indicate passive rest does not reverse the elevated core temperatures of heat-exposed workers in a timely manner. Climate projections of higher WBGT are anticipated to further marginalise the passive rest cooling rates of heat-exposed workers, particularly when undertaken in occupational attire.
Bimetallic Biogenic Pt-Ag Nanoparticle and Their Application for Electrochemical Dopamine Sensor
Authors: Bekmezci Muhammed , Ozturk Hudanur , Akin Merve , Bayat Ramazan , Sen Fatih , Darabi Rozhin , Karimi-Maleh Hassan
Published: May 2023

In this study, Silver-Platinum (Pt-Ag) bimetallic nanoparticles were synthesized by the biogenic reduction method using plant extracts. This reduction method offers a highly innovative model for obtaining nanostructures using fewer chemicals. According to this method, a structure with an ideal size of 2.31 nm was obtained according to the Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) result. The Pt-Ag bimetallic nanoparticles were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffractometry (XRD), and Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-VIS) spectroscopy. For the electrochemical activity of the obtained nanoparticles in the dopamine sensor, electrochemical measurements were made with the Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and Differential Pulse Voltammetry (DPV) methods. According to the results of the CV measurements taken, the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.03 µM and the limit of quantification (LOQ) was 0.11 µM. To investigate the antibacterial properties of the obtained Pt-Ag NPs, their antibacterial effects on Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria were investigated. In this study, it was observed that Pt-Ag NPs, which were successfully synthesized by biogenic synthesis using plant extract, exhibited high electrocatalytic performance and good antibacterial properties in the determination of dopamine (DA).
High-Performance Glazing for Enhancing Sustainable Environment in Arid Region’s Healthcare Projects
Authors: Ismaeil Esam M. H. , Sobaih Abu Elnasr E.
Published: May 2023

The integration of sustainability rating systems in healthcare projects and healthcare building envelope specifications is a growing concern in the construction industry, especially in the arid region. The external facade of healthcare buildings is one of the most significant contributors to the energy cost and comfort level of healthcare buildings in such a region. This study undertook a comprehensive comparison analysis of an adaptive model of high-performance glazing (HPG) specifications for patient rooms in a case study inside Saudi Arabia based on multi-criteria, including the LEED Healthcare rating system. The study used a technical comparative analysis for three onsite glazing models with HAB software v6.0 based on specifications of specialist manufacturer organizations for glazing window performance, climatic conditions, and the region’s culture. Significant results in the case study project were achieved in energy saving and sustainability ranking in the healthcare rating system, providing new specification guidelines for HPG applications in healthcare buildings located in an arid region, and cultural environment considerations.
Rationalization of Free-Form Architecture Using Generative and Parametric Designs
Authors: Lee Chankyu , Shin Sangyun , Issa Raja Raymond
Published: May 2023

Free-form architecture is a prominent trend in contemporary architecture where streamlined geometric buildings are constructed. The main problem in free-form architecture is rationalization, which involves realizing free-form surfaces at a reasonable cost while meeting design requirements. Balancing the design intents and construction costs simultaneously is essential for successful rationalization. This study proposes parametric and generative program flows to balance both requirements efficiently. The suggested parametric program flow, which is based on a mathematical algorithm, classifies a free-form surface into multiple areas, which are favorable to flat, single-curved, and double-curved panels. The proposed generative program flow optimizes the double-curved panels’ area through the integration of Multi-Objective Optimization and Pareto optimality. Designers can select the best design option that fits their design objectives through trade-offs using the results of the program flows. Eventually, more efficient and mindful decisions can be made in the early design process by using the results of this study for successful free-form architecture.
OSCC in Never-Smokers and Never-Drinkers Is Associated with Increased Expression of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes and Better Survival
Authors: Fiedler Mathias , Off Alisa , Eichberger Jonas , Spoerl Steffen , Schuderer Johannes G. , Taxis Juergen , Bauer Richard J. , Schreml Stephan , Reichert Torsten E. , Ettl Tobias , Weber Florian
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical, histopathologic, and immunologic differences of oral squamous cell carcinoma of never-smokers/never-drinkers and smokers/drinkers. Immunohistochemical staining for CD4, CD8, FoxP3, CD1a, and p16 was performed in 131 oral squamous cell carcinomas from smokers/drinkers and never-smokers/never-drinkers. Associations of smoking/drinking status with clinicopathologic data, immunohistochemical antibody expression, and survival were examined. Oral squamous cell carcinoma in never-smokers/never-drinkers was associated with the female gender (p < 0.001). Never-smokers/never-drinkers were older at diagnosis than smokers/drinkers (p < 0.001). Never-smokers/never-drinkers had more tumors in the maxilla, mandible, and tongue (p < 0.001). Pre-existing oral potentially malignant disorders appeared to be more common in never-smokers/never-drinkers (p < 0.001). Perineural invasion was more common in smokers/drinkers (p = 0.039). Never-smoking/never-drinking was associated with better overall survival (p = 0.004) and disease-specific survival (p = 0.029). High CD4+ T cell infiltration was associated with never-smoking/never-drinking (p = 0.008). Never-smokers/never-drinkers also showed increased CD8+ T cell infiltration (p = 0.001) and increased FoxP3+ Treg infiltration (p = 0.023). Furthermore, the total group of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes was associated with never smoking/never drinking (p = 0.005). To conclude oral squamous cell carcinoma of the never-smokers/never-drinkers appears to be a distinct type of tumor, as it appears to have unique clinical and pathologic features and a more immunogenic microenvironment.
Recurrent Differentiated Thyroid Cancer: The Current Treatment Options
Authors: Coca-Pelaz Andrés , Rodrigo Juan Pablo , Shah Jatin P. , Nixon Iain J. , Hartl Dana M. , Robbins K. Thomas , Kowalski Luiz P. , Mäkitie Antti A. , Hamoir Marc , López Fernando , Saba Nabil F. , Nuyts Sandra , Rinaldo Alessandra , Ferlito Alfio
Published: May 2023

Differentiated thyroid carcinomas (DTC) have an excellent prognosis, but this is sometimes overshadowed by tumor recurrences following initial treatment (approximately 15% of cases during follow-up), due to unrecognized disease extent at initial diagnosis or a more aggressive tumor biology, which are the usual risk factors. The possible sites of recurrence are local, regional, or distant. Local and regional recurrences can usually be successfully managed with surgery and radioiodine therapy, as are some isolated distant recurrences, such as bone metastases. If these treatments are not possible, other therapeutic options such as external beam radiation therapy or systemic treatments should be considered. Major advances in systemic treatments have led to improved progression-free survival in patients previously considered for palliative treatments; among these treatments, the most promising results have been achieved with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). This review attempts to give a comprehensive overview of the current treatment options suited for recurrences and the new treatments that are available in cases where salvage surgery is not possible or in cases resistant to radioiodine.
Effect of the Microstructure of Composite CoMoS/Carbon Catalysts on Hydrotreatment Performances
Authors: Ghosh Sourav , Courthéoux Laurence , Brunet Sylvette , Lacroix-Desmazes Patrick , Pradel Annie , Girard Etienne , Uzio Denis
Published: May 2023

Several CoMoS/carbons were successfully synthetized using hydrothermal-type approaches and a subsequent surface reaction for the promotion step with Co. The effect of the microstructure of carbons used as a matrix for CoMoS-based catalysts was studied in the case of hydrotreating reactions. It was found that 1D (nanofibers/tubes) or 2D (nanosheets) carbon nanostructures may influence the characteristics of the CoMoS crystallites (dispersion, promotion rate and orientation of the slabs) and as a consequence the catalytic properties. In particular, the HDS mechanism of the substituted 4-MethylDiBenzoThiophene (4-MDBT) was found to be microstructure-dependent, as well as the selectivity of 3-MethylThiophene (3-MT) HDS/2,3-DiMethylBut-2-eNe (2,3-DM2BN) hydrogenation.
Selectivity Regulation of Au/Titanate by Biochar Modification for Selective Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol
Authors: Chen Xiya , Jiang Hangwei , Cui Danlan , Lu Kun , Kong Xiao , Cai Junmeng , Yu Shirui , Zhang Xingguang
Published: May 2023

In organic synthesis, it is important to control the selectivity target product with high purity and reduce the cost of energy and equipment for separation. This study investigated supported gold catalysts on biochar-modified titanate-based nanofibers in order to regulate the catalytic performances by biochar content and surface properties. The catalysts were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, ICP-OES, UV-Vis to confirm their morphology, particle size distribution of Au NPs, crystal structures, oxidation state of Au and other key elements, real Au loading, and optical properties. In the test of selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde, the biochar modification could improve the selectivity toward benzaldehyde. Moreover, the influence of catalyst calcination conditions, reaction time, reaction atmospheres, reaction temperatures and solvent were systematically investigated. These results are useful for peer researchers in rational catalyst design.
PudgyTurtle Mode Resists Bit-Flipping Attacks
Authors: August David A. , Smith Anne C.
Published: May 2023

Cryptosystems employing a synchronous binary-additive stream cipher are susceptible to a generic attack called ’bit-flipping’, in which the ciphertext is modified to decrypt into a fraudulent message. While authenticated encryption and message authentication codes can effectively negate this attack, encryption modes can also provide partial protection against bit-flipping. PudgyTurtle is a stream-cipher mode which uses keystream to encode (via an error-correcting code) and to encipher (via modulo-2 addition). Here, we describe the behavior of this mode during bit-flipping attacks and demonstrate how it creates uncertainty about the number, positions, and identities of decrypted bits that will be affected.
Effect of Carbon Nanotubes on the Mechanical, Thermal, and Electrical Properties of Tin-Based Lead-Free Solders: A Review
Authors: Li Liangwei , Qin Weiou , Mai Baohua , Qi Da , Yang Wenchao , Feng Junli , Zhan Yongzhong
Published: May 2023

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are being applied with increasing frequency for advanced soldering. They have excellent mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties and are primarily used to reinforce lead-free solders. This paper discusses the strengthening mechanism of CNTs, introduces the preparation methods of CNT composite solders, and focuses on the review of tin-based lead-free solders reinforced with unmodified CNTs and metal-modified CNTs. The addition of CNTs can effectively improve the ultimate tensile strength, microhardness, shear strength, and creep resistance of the solder. However, the practical application of CNT composite solders has been a challenge for researchers for decades. The most significant issue is uniform dispersion due to the large density and surface differences between CNTs and solders. Other concerns are the structural integrity of CNTs and their limited addition amount, solder wettability, and interfacial bonding. CNT composite solders can only be widely used in a real sense when these challenges are properly addressed and overcome. At present, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews covering the structure, the strengthening mechanism, the preparation method of CNT composite solders, and the influence of CNT types on their strengthening effects. Therefore, this paper aims to fill this gap and contribute to solving the problems faced by the application of CNTs in solder. Future work is expected to focus on improving the dispersion and bonding of CNTs and optimizing the preparation method.
Effects of NH4SCN Additive in the FAPbI3 Perovskite Films in a Sequential Deposition Method
Authors: Miró-Zárate Jorge Luis , Elías-Espinosa Miltón Carlos , Cervantes-Sodi Felipe , Diliegros-Godines Carolina Janani
Published: May 2023

This study determined the effect of introducing the NH4SCN additive in the precursor solution of PbI2 of a sequential deposition method in an open atmosphere to form FAPbI3 perovskite over a glass substrate. Adding NH4SCN leads to different intermediate layers according to the concentration of the additive. From an adequate concentration, an ionic substitution between I− and SCN− is promoted, providing a unique path for nucleation and growth of FAPbI3 due to significant changes in morphology. The intermediate layer with a proper amount of NH4SCN enhanced the physical properties of FAPbI3. It contributed to understanding the crystallinity and morphological conditions for favorable growth of FAPbI3 directly over a glass substrate. A concentration of 40% gave rise to the biggest grain size, homogeneous morphology, higher absorption, and prevalence of black phase in the α/δ phase coexistence. As a result, the perovskite with the NH4SCN additive showed a positive effect on the growth mechanisms and enhanced stability due to the mixed α/δ-phase and grain size ∼1350 nm. The preceding makes FAPbI3 film with a concentration of 40% a good option for application as stable perovskite in solar cells.
Design of a Pediatric Rectal Ultrasound Probe Intended for Ultra-High Frequency Ultrasound Diagnostics
Authors: Evertsson Maria , Graneli Christina , Vernersson Alvina , Wiaczek Olivia , Hagelsteen Kristine , Erlöv Tobias , Cinthio Magnus , Stenström Pernilla
Published: May 2023

It has been shown that ultra-high frequency (UHF) ultrasound applied to the external bowel wall can delineate the histo-anatomic layers in detail and distinguish normal bowel from aganglionosis. This would potentially reduce or lessen the need for biopsies that are currently mandatory for the diagnosis of Hirschsprung’s disease. However, to our knowledge, no suitable rectal probes for such a use are on the market. The aim was to define the specifications of an UHF transrectal ultrasound probe (50 MHz center frequency) suitable for use in infants. Probe requirements according to patient anatomy, clinicians’ requests, and biomedical engineering UHF prerequisites were collected within an expert group. Suitable probes on the market and in clinical use were reviewed. The requirements were transferred into the sketching of potential UHF ultrasound transrectal probes followed by their 3D prototype printing. Two prototypes were created and tested by five pediatric surgeons. The larger and straight 8 mm head and shaft probe was preferred as it facilitated stability, ease of anal insertion, and possible UHF technique including 128 piezoelectric elements in a linear array. We hereby present the procedure and considerations behind the development of a proposed new UHF transrectal pediatric probe. Such a device can open new possibilities for the diagnostics of pediatric anorectal conditions.
Ultrasound for the Detection of Inflammatory Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: A Case and Validation Series
Authors: Slijkhuis Berend G. C. , Liesker David J. , Konter Sherilyn A. C. , Possel-Nicolai Annet , Bokkers Reinoud P. H. , Prakken Niek H. J. , Brouwer Elisabeth , Slart Riemer H. J. A. , van Roon Arie M. , Saleem Ben R. , Mulder Douwe J.
Published: May 2023

Inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysms (iAAA) are a form of noninfectious aortitis in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). Ultrasound could help to detect iAAA early. This retrospective observational study assessed the potential of using ultrasound to detect iAAA in a case series of iAAA patients, and the diagnostic value of ultrasound to detect iAAA in consecutive patients in a follow-up for AAA, referred to as a feasibility study. In both studies, diagnosis of iAAA was based on a cuff surrounding the aneurysm using CT (golden standard). The case series included 13 patients (age 64 (61; 72) years; 100% male). The feasibility study included 157 patients (age 75 (67; 80) years; 84% male). In the case series, all iAAA patients showed a cuff surrounding the aortic wall on ultrasound. In the feasibility study with AAA patients, ultrasound yielded no cuff in 147 (93.6%; CT negative in all cases), a typic cuff in 8 (5.1%; CT positive in all cases), and an inconclusive cuff in 2 (1.3%; CT negative in both cases) patients. Sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 98.7%, respectively. This study indicates that iAAA can be identified with ultrasound, and safely ruled out. In positive ultrasound cases, additional CT imaging might still be warranted.
Modelling of Low-Voltage Varistors’ Responses under Slow-Front Overvoltages
Authors: Muremi Lutendo , Bokoro Pitshou N. , Doorsamy Wesley
Published: May 2023

In this study, commercially low-voltage MOVs are exposed to switching surges to analyse and model the relationship between the number of surges and the MOV grain barrier height response. Repeated slow-front overvoltage transients are used to degrade the protective qualities of metal oxide surge arrester devices, affecting their reliability and stability. A total of 360 MOVs with similar specifications from three different manufacturers are degraded under switching surges at a constant temperature of 60 °C. The reference voltage and C-V characteristics of MOVs are measured before and after the degradation process to analyse the MOVs’ conditions. Grain barrier heights are determined from the C-V characteristics curve. An F-statistical analysis is then applied to analyse the effects of number of surges on the grain barrier height. The T-test is used to assess the statistical difference between the tested groups. Linear regression analysis is then applied to model the relationship between the number of surges and MOV grain barrier height. The results obtained show that the number of surges has a significant impact on grain barrier height. MOV grain barrier height is found to decrease as the number of surges applied increases. Regression models obtained for the tested MOV groups across all three manufacturers agree and indicate that the reduction in grain barrier height results from an increased number of surges. Regression coefficients of a developed model indicate that for one surge applied, the MOV grain barrier height decreases by 0.024, 0.055, and 0.033 eV/cm for manufacturers X, Y, and Z, respectively. Therefore, there is a linear relationship between grain barrier height and the number of applied switching surges.
The Influence of Social Stratification on Trust in Recommender Systems
Authors: Rad Dana , Cuc Lavinia Denisia , Feher Andrea , Joldeș Cosmin Silviu Raul , Bâtcă-Dumitru Graziella Corina , Șendroiu Cleopatra , Almași Robert Cristian , Chiș Sabin , Popescu Miron Gavril
Published: May 2023

This paper examines the impact of social stratification on trust in recommender systems. Recommender systems have become an essential tool for users to navigate vast amounts of information online, but trust in these systems has become a concern. The focus of this study is to investigate whether social stratification, defined by socioeconomic status, affects trust in recommender systems. We first review the literature on trust in recommender systems and social stratification, highlighting gaps in the current research. We then describe the methodology used in our study, which involves the analysis of valid and consented responses received from 487 participants from different socioeconomic backgrounds, registered in an online survey. This study aimed to investigate the influence of social stratification, specifically income, on trust in recommender systems. Results showed a curvilinear relationship between income and trust in recommender systems, such that moderate income levels were associated with higher levels of trust, while both low- and high-income levels were associated with lower levels of trust. These findings suggest that income plays an important role in shaping users’ trust in recommender systems and highlight the need for future research to examine the complex interplay between social stratification and trust in technology.
Accelerating the Response of Self-Driving Control by Using Rapid Object Detection and Steering Angle Prediction
Authors: Chang Bao Rong , Tsai Hsiu-Fen , Hsieh Chia-Wei
Published: May 2023

A vision-based autonomous driving system can usually fuse information about object detection and steering angle prediction for safe self-driving through real-time recognition of the environment around the car. If an autonomous driving system cannot respond fast to driving control appropriately, it will cause high-risk problems with regard to severe car accidents from self-driving. Therefore, this study introduced GhostConv to the YOLOv4-tiny model for rapid object detection, denoted LW-YOLOv4-tiny, and the ResNet18 model for rapid steering angle prediction LW-ResNet18. As per the results, LW-YOLOv4-tiny can achieve the highest execution speed by frames per second, 56.1, and LW-ResNet18 can obtain the lowest prediction loss by mean-square error, 0.0683. Compared with other integrations, the proposed approach can achieve the best performance indicator, 2.4658, showing the fastest response to driving control in self-driving.
A Multiformalism-Based Model for Performance Evaluation of Green Data Centres
Authors: Barbierato Enrico , Manini Daniele , Gribaudo Marco
Published: May 2023

Although the coexistence of ARM and INTEL technologies in green data centres is technically feasible, significant challenges exist that must be addressed. These challenges stem from the differences in instruction sets and power consumption between the two processor architectures. While ARM processors are known for their energy efficiency, INTEL processors tend to consume more power. Consequently, evaluating the performance of hybrid architectures can be a complex task. The contributions of this article consist of (i) a multiformalism-based model of a data centre, providing a natural and convenient approach to the specification process and performance analysis of a realistic scenario and (ii) a review of the performance indices, including the choice of one architecture over another, power consumption, the response time, and request loss, according to different policies. As a result, the model aims to address issues such as system underutilization and the need to estimate the optimal workload balance, thereby providing an effective solution for evaluating the performance of hybrid hardware architectures.