bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental investigation of a viscoelastic liner to reduce under helmet overpressures and shock wave reflections
Authors: Thomas Cody J. H. , Dogan Fatih , Johnson Catherine E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Shock wave overpressure exposures can result in blast-induced traumatic brain injury (bTBI) in warfighters. Although combat helmets provide protection against blunt impacts, the protection against blast waves is limited due to the observed high overpressures occurring underneath the helmet. One route to enhance these helmets is by incorporating viscoelastic materials into the helmet designs, reducing pressures imposed on the head. This study aims to further investigate this mitigation technique against under-helmet overpressures by adding a viscoelastic liner to the inside of a combat helmet.

Methods

The liner’s effectiveness was evaluated by exposing it to free-field blasts of Composition C-4 at overpressures ranging from 27.5 to 165 kPa (4 - 24 psi) and comparing shock waveform parameters to an unlined helmet. Blasts were conducted using an instrumented manikin equipped with and without a helmet and then with a helmet modified to incorporate a viscoelastic liner. Evaluation of blast exposure results focused on the waveform parameters of peak pressure, impulse and positive phase duration.

Results

The results show that peak overpressure was higher when wearing a helmet compared to not wearing a helmet. However, the helmet with the viscoelastic liner reduced the average peak overpressures compared to the helmet alone. For the lowest overpressure tested, 27.5 kPa, the helmet liner decreased the overpressure on the top of the head by 37.6%, with reduction reaching 26% at the highest overpressure exposure of 165 kPa. Additionally, the inclusion of the viscoelastic material extended the shock waveforms’ duration, reducing the rate the shock wave was applied to the head. The results of this study show the role a helmet and helmet design play in the level of blast exposure imposed on a wearer. The testing and evaluation of these materials hold promise for enhancing helmet design to better protect against bTBI.
Von Willebrand factor and hematogenous cancer metastasis under flow
Authors: Xu Wenxuan , Tan Xi , Li Morgan L. , Xu Hanzhi , Villegas Jasmine , Fu Hongxia
Published: August 2024

Hematogenous metastasis involves cancer cell migration to different locations from the primary tumor through the blood circulation. Von Willebrand factor (VWF) has been shown to play an important role in tumor cell adhesion to and extravasation from the endothelial cell lining of blood vessel walls during cancer metastasis. VWF may contribute to this process by interacting with tumor cells, endothelial cells, and platelets through various cell membrane receptors, such as platelet glycoprotein (GP)Ibα, P-selectin, ανβ3 and αIIbβ3 integrins, and glycocalyx. Blood flow can mechanically extend and activate VWF to bind platelets and associate intermolecularly with other VWF molecules in plasma or on the surface of endothelial cells, cancer cells, or platelets. This suggests a mechanoregulatory role of VWF in mediating the interactions between VWF and these cells to promote cancer cell adhesion to blood vessels. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge of VWF function and the role of hydrodynamic forces in hematogenous cancer metastasis.
Control of lamination on bedding-parallel fractures in tight sandstone reservoirs: the seventh member of the upper Triassic Yanchang Formation in the Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Lu Hao , Cao Song , Dong Shaoqun , Lyu Wenya , Zeng Lianbo
Published: August 2024

Tight sandstone reservoirs have extremely low porosity and permeability. Bedding-parallel fractures (BPFs) contribute prominently to the storage and seepage capability. However, the distribution of BPFs is remarkably heterogeneous, impeding the prediction and modeling of sweet spots. BPFs are controlled fundamentally by laminations, which are widely distributed in lacustrine tight reservoirs and provide most weakness planes. Based on core and thin section data, BPFs of the upper Triassic Chang 7 tight oil reservoir are characterized microscopically. The lamination combination unit, which is defined by distinctive lamination assemblage and relatively stable lamination thickness and space, is utilized as a homogeneous unit to measure the density of lamination and related BPFs. The influence of laminations on BPFs is discussed further. Results show that most bedding-parallel fractures are unfilled, with apertures generally <40 μm, mainly <10 μm. Larger apertures correlate with low filling degrees. The distribution of BPFs is intricately controlled by lamination type, density, and thickness. (1) BPFs tend to develop along different types by a priority sequence which reflects their mechanical strength. The development degree of BPFs also depends on the mechanical contrast with adjacent laminations; (2) When controlled by a single type of lamination, the density of BPFs increases with lamination density under a turning point and then decreases; (3) BPFs prefer to develop along the thinner lamination and are usually inside it, while controlled by thick lamination, BPFs tend to extend along the edge. The change in the thickness of laminations leads to a change in the development position of BPFs, indicating that the position of the weak plane controls the development position of BPFs; (4) When multiple types of lamination coexist, the type and thickness of laminations jointly influence the development of BPFs. Plastic thin laminations are conducive to the development of BPFs, while brittle thick laminations are not conducive. When the thickness of the plastic lamination is close to or less than that of the brittle, the influence of lamination type dominates BPFs, while the thickness of the plastic laminations is much larger than the brittle, the influence of lamination thickness will dominate.
Assessment of digital competencies in higher education faculty: a multimodal approach within the framework of artificial intelligence
Authors: Moreira-Choez Jenniffer Sobeida , Gómez Barzola Ketty Elizabeth , Lamus de Rodríguez Tibisay Milene , Sabando-García Angel Ramón , Cruz Mendoza Juan Carlos , Cedeño Barcia Lizandro Agustín
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Digital competencies are increasingly recognized as a fundamental pillar in the professional development of educators, particularly in Higher Education, where the integration of educational technologies is crucial for enhancing teaching and learning processes.

Methods

This study assessed the digital competencies of faculty at the Technical University of Manabí using a descriptive, non-experimental approach with a sample of 279 professors. Data collection was conducted through a quantitative multimodal design utilizing the Higher Education Digital Competencies Assessment Questionnaire (CDES). The data were analyzed using a structural equation model in AMOS software.

Results

The findings revealed a significant correlation between faculty members' perceptions and the evaluated dimensions. However, the analysis identified discrepancies in the goodness-of-fit indices, suggesting the need for adjustments in the model.

Discussion

The study underscores the importance of ongoing evaluation and optimization of the structural model to refine the integration of digital competencies. It demonstrates the potential of these competencies to enrich teaching practices and concludes that continuous validation and adjustment of the model are essential to align faculty perceptions with their actual digital competencies.
Association and causality between diabetes and activin A: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Mengqiao
Published: August 2024

Activin A, a cytokine belonging to the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily, mediates a multifunctional signaling pathway that is essential for embryonic development, cell differentiation, metabolic regulation, and physiological equilibrium. Biomedical research using diabetes-based model organisms and cellular cultures reports evidence of different activin A levels between diabetic and control groups. Activin A is highly conserved across species and universally expressed among disparate tissues. A systematic review of published literatures on human populations reveals association of plasma activin A levels with diabetic patients in some (7) but not in others (5) of the studies. With summarized data from publicly available genome-wide association studies (GWASs), a two-sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR) analysis is conducted on the causality between the exposure and the outcome. Wald ratio estimates from single instruments are predominantly non-significant. In contrast to positive controls between diabetes and plasma cholesterol levels, inverse-variance-weighted (IVW), Egger, weighted median, and weighted mode MR methods all lead to no observed causal link between diabetes (type 1 and type 2) and plasma activin A levels. Unavailability of strong instruments prevents the reversal MR analysis of activin A on diabetes. In summary, further research is needed to confirm or deny the potential association between diabetes and plasma activin A, and to elucidate the temporal incidence of these traits in human populations. At this stage, no causality has been found between diabetes and plasma activin A based on TSMR analysis.
Inflammation and heterogeneity in synucleinopathies
Authors: Freuchet Antoine , Pinçon Anaëlle , Sette Alessandro , Lindestam Arlehamn Cecilia S.
Published: August 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases represent a huge healthcare challenge which is predicted to increase with an aging population. Synucleinopathies, including Parkinson’s disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and multiple system atrophy (MSA), present complex challenges in understanding their onset and progression. They are characterized by the abnormal aggregation of α-synuclein in the brain leading to neurodegeneration. Accumulating evidence supports the existence of distinct subtypes based on the site of α-synuclein aggregation initiation, genetics, and, more recently, neuroinflammation. Mediated by both central nervous system-resident cells, peripheral immune cells, and gut dysbiosis, neuroinflammation appears as a key process in the onset and progression of neuronal loss. Sex-based differences add another layer of complexity to synucleinopathies, influencing disease prevalence - with a known higher incidence of PD in males compared to females – as well as phenotype and immune responses. Biological sex affects neuroinflammatory pathways and the immune response, suggesting the need for sex-specific therapeutic strategies and biomarker identification. Here, we review the heterogeneity of synucleinopathies, describing the etiology, the mechanisms by which the inflammatory processes contribute to the pathology, and the consideration of sex-based differences to highlight the need for personalized therapeutics.
Advances in delivery systems for CRISPR/Cas-mediated cancer treatment: a focus on viral vectors and extracellular vesicles
Authors: Song Zhidu , Tao Ying , Liu Yue , Li Jian
Published: August 2024

The delivery of CRISPR/Cas systems holds immense potential for revolutionizing cancer treatment, with recent advancements focusing on extracellular vesicles (EVs) and viral vectors. EVs, particularly exosomes, offer promising opportunities for targeted therapy due to their natural cargo transport capabilities. Engineered EVs have shown efficacy in delivering CRISPR/Cas components to tumor cells, resulting in inhibited cancer cell proliferation and enhanced chemotherapy sensitivity. However, challenges such as off-target effects and immune responses remain significant hurdles. Viral vectors, including adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) and adenoviral vectors (AdVs), represent robust delivery platforms for CRISPR/Cas systems. AAVs, known for their safety profile, have already been employed in clinical trials for gene therapy, demonstrating their potential in cancer treatment. AdVs, capable of infecting both dividing and non-dividing cells, offer versatility in CRISPR/Cas delivery for disease modeling and drug discovery. Despite their efficacy, viral vectors present several challenges, including immune responses and off-target effects. Future directions entail refining delivery systems to enhance specificity and minimize adverse effects, heralding personalized and effective CRISPR/Cas-mediated cancer therapies. This article underscores the importance of optimized delivery mechanisms in realizing the full therapeutic potential of CRISPR/Cas technology in oncology. As the field progresses, addressing these challenges will be pivotal for translating CRISPR/Cas-mediated cancer treatments from bench to bedside.
Can China’s ocean governance system improve the marine ecosystem? – Taking the “bay chief system” as an example
Authors: Chen Yusheng , Zhou Yongwei , Ma Ye , Sun Zhaofa , Yang Weili
Published: August 2024

Marine ecosystem governance is an important component of the goal of developing a strong maritime nation, as well as an urgent need to ensure national maritime security. The “Bay Chief System”(BCS) is a novel policy concept with Chinese roots that seeks to improve the marine ecological environment. In this paper, we take the coastal cities in China as an example and use the panel data of prefecture-level cities from 2010 to 2022 to analyse the impact of the Bay Chief System on the regional marine ecological environment by using a differences in-differences model. The baseline regression results reveal that the implementation of the Bay Chief System leads to a 0.122 percentage point improvement in marine ecosystems but it has yet to be linked to the River Chief System(RCS) to establish a systematic synergistic mechanism. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that the implementation of the Bay Chief System is more effective in coastal cities with smaller populations, a heavier proportion of secondary industries, and a geographic location closer to the South. The analysis of the impact mechanism indicates that the Bay Chief System mitigates the adverse effects of near-shore resource development on the marine ecological environment by regulating the intensity of fishery and coastal tourism development. Additionally, it optimizes water quality by substantially reducing pollutants like chemical oxygen demand (COD) and ammonia nitrogen (AN) in seawater, ultimately contributing to the protection of the marine ecological environment.
Utilizing the SDGs to develop a blue economy capacity framework enabling a shift from an ocean economy to a blue economy in Canada
Authors: Noonan-Birch Ronnie , Adams Michelle , Ross Marie-Chantal
Published: August 2024

Canada has committed to establishing a socially equitable, environmentally sustainable and economically viable blue economy but has not yet determined a sustainability standard that industry must meet to be included in this aspirational blue economy. For the blue economy to be an effective, sustainable alternative to the regular ocean economy, clear criteria for ocean business must be established to reduce the risk of blue washing. The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide an ideal theoretical basis from which to develop a marine sector standard for blue economy industry. Using a criteria-based approach, this work selected relevant SDG targets that can guide Canada’s ocean industry in the transition to a blue economy. Through a stepwise process, the selected targets were further contextualized to the company level resulting in a blue economy capacity assessment framework (BECF) that offers four blue economy industry aims and associated enabling mechanisms. The BECF practically links the theory of the SDGs to a desired outcome, providing a method for an ocean-based company to assess its contribution to all three dimensions of Canada’s blue economy.
Biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticle by Cytobacillus firmus isolated from the river sediment with potential antimicrobial properties against Edwardsiella tarda
Authors: Kumar Vikash , Parida Satya Narayan , Dhar Souvik , Bisai Kampan , Sarkar Dhruba Jyoti , Panda Soumya Prasad , Das Basanta Kumar
Published: August 2024

The aquatic environment, independent of their host, is more favorable to pathogenic bacteria than the terrestrial environment. Consequently, pathogenic bacteria can reach very high densities around aquatic animals and can cause high mortality. The conventional approach, such as antibiotics, has minimal effectiveness. Additionally, due to the emergence of (multiple) resistance, their use is under intense scientific and public scrutiny. Hence, there is a need for the development of alternative control techniques, with an emphasis on prevention, which is likely to be more cost-effective. In this study, a potential bacterial strain Cytobacillus firmus was isolated from polluted river sediment and characterized using a comprehensive range of techniques including biochemical, 16S rRNA sequencing and antibiogram assay. The pathogenicity of the bacteria was tested in vivo on Labeo rohita fingerlings found as non-pathogenic. Further, the bacteria were found to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using AgNO3 as a substrate. The obtained AgNPs were characterized by various methods, including UV–vis spectroscopy, FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy), and Transmission Emission Microscopy (TEM). The study found that the AgNPs were 20 nm in size on average. The antimicrobial activity of synthesized AgNPs was examined against the model freshwater pathogenic bacteria, Edwardsiella tarda and both the MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) and MBC (Minimum Bactericidal Concentration) were 0.156 μM, while biofilm inhibition activity was also observed at 0.156 μM. The AgNPs showed no haemolytic activity at 0.313 μM. Our findings suggest that C. firmus mediated bacteriogenic AgNPs modulate the activity of common pathogenic bacteria E. tarda. The thoroughness of our research process gives us confidence in the potential of applying AgNPs in aquaculture as a considerable strategy to control the E. tarda infection.
Metabonomic analysis to identify exometabolome changes underlying antifungal and growth promotion mechanisms of endophytic Actinobacterium Streptomyces albidoflavus for sustainable agriculture practice
Authors: Abdelshafy Mohamad Osama Abdalla , Liu Yong-Hong , Huang Yin , Kuchkarova Nigora , Dong Lei , Jiao Jian-Yu , Fang Bao-Zhu , Ma Jin-Biao , Hatab Shaimaa , Li Wen-Jun
Published: August 2024

In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on microbial ecology and its possible impact on agricultural production, owing to its eco-friendly nature and sustainable use. The current study employs metabolomics technologies and bioinformatics approaches to identify changes in the exometabolome of Streptomyces albidoflavus B24. This research aims to shed light on the mechanisms and metabolites responsible for the antifungal and growth promotion strategies, with potential applications in sustainable agriculture. Metabolomic analysis was conducted using Q Exactive UPLC–MS/MS. Our findings indicate that a total of 3,840 metabolites were identified, with 137 metabolites exhibiting significant differences divided into 61 up and 75 downregulated metabolites based on VIP >1, |FC| >1, and p < 0.01. The interaction of S. albidoflavus B24 monoculture with the co-culture demonstrated a stronger correlation coefficient. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) demonstrates that PCA1 accounted for 23.36%, while PCA2 accounted for 20.28% distinction. OPLS-DA score plots indicate significant separation among different groups representing (t1) 24% as the predicted component (to1) depicts 14% as the orthogonal component. According to the findings of this comprehensive study, crude extracts from S. albidoflavus demonstrated varying abilities to impede phytopathogen growth and enhance root and shoot length in tested plants. Through untargeted metabolomics, we discovered numerous potential molecules with antagonistic activity against fungal phytopathogens among the top 10 significant metabolites with the highest absolute log2FC values. These include Tetrangulol, 4-Hydroxybenzaldehyde, and Cyclohexane. Additionally, we identified plant growth-regulating metabolites such as N-Succinyl-L-glutamate, Nicotinic acid, L-Aspartate, and Indole-3-acetamide. The KEGG pathway analysis has highlighted these compounds as potential sources of antimicrobial properties. The inhibitory effect of S. albidoflavus crude extracts on pathogen growth is primarily attributed to the presence of specific gene clusters responsible for producing cyclic peptides such as ansamycins, porphyrin, alkaloid derivatives, and neomycin. Overall, it is apparent that crude extracts from S. albidoflavus exhibited varying abilities to inhibit the growth of three phytopathogens and enhancement in both root and shoot length of tested plants. This research enhances our understanding of how secondary metabolites contribute to growth promotion and biocontrol, supporting ecosystem sustainability and resilience while boosting productivity in sustainable agriculture.
Impact of soil fissure status on microbial community in mining-disturbed area, the northern Shaanxi province
Authors: Guo Liang , Chen Xianglong , Sheng Yizhi , Yang Nuan , Hou Enke , Fang Haisong
Published: August 2024

Mining disturbance has great impacts on soil physicochemical factors, causing notable differences between pre-mining and after-mining conditions, and between coal mining areas and non-mined areas. However, little is known about whether the fissure statuses induced by mining activities affect the edaphic factors and how soil microbial communities respond to these fissure development states. In this study, we systematically investigated the edaphic factors and microbial communities in a mining disturbance area exhibiting the full development status of soil fissures, where the sampling sites were divided into soil fissure development and closure zones. Microbial alpha-and beta-diversity, correlation coefficient matrix, non-metric multi-dimensional scaling, principal co-ordinates analysis, mantel test, and microbial co-occurrence network were employed to elucidate variations, correlations, and interactions between edaphic factors and microbial communities under the two different soil fissure states. Results suggested that soil physicochemical properties were significantly affected by fissure states, showing an increasing trend in soil moisture content and soil nutrients. The associations among edaphic factors have weakened during the soil fissure development process. Soil microbial communities showed different compositions and the underlying influential mechanisms between two soil fissure states. Soil moisture content, pH, particle compositions, organic matter, and heavy metals largely affected microbial communities. Rare species were vulnerable to mining disturbance and were keystone taxa that reinforced the overall interconnections of the soil microbial community (e.g., Nordella, Sphingomonas, Massilia, and Rubritepida). Our study revealed the impacts of distinct fissure states on the soil physicochemical properties and microbial communities, and the edaphic conditions showed key contributions to the soil microbial communities, particularly the abundance and ecological roles of rare species.
Deep medullary veins score is associated with atrophy in patients with cerebral small vessel disease
Authors: Mao Fan , Xu Zhihua , Shao Meihua , Xiang Xuelian , Zhou Xiaoli
Published: August 2024

Objective

To explore the relationship between the deep medullary vein (DMV) score and atrophy in patients with cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD).

Methods

Imaging and clinical data from 125 patients with CSVD from January to December 2022 were reviewed. Normalized gray matter volume (GM_N) was calculated by dividing the gray matter volume by the whole brain volume. DMV scoring is conducted using susceptibility-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, wherein the DMV area is partitioned into six distinct regions: bilateral frontal, parietal, and occipital regions. Each region undergoes assessment based on the clarity and consistency of DMV visibility. Subsequently, the scores from these six regions are summed, resulting in a score ranging from 0 to 18 points.

Results

DMV score was associated with GM_N (r = −0.376, p < 0.001). Comparisons among patients according to GM_N tertiles, differences in gender, age, current smoking, DMV score, and total CSVD magnetic resonance imaging score were demonstrated (p < 0.05). Adjusting for age, gender, vascular risk factors, and total CSVD MR score, the DMV score was independently associated with GM_N [β (95% CI): −0.347 (−0.525, −0.168), p < 0.001].

Conclusion

DMV scores are independently associated with GM_N, and DMV dysfunction may play a role in brain atrophy.
Pupillometry and autonomic nervous system responses to cognitive load and false feedback: an unsupervised machine learning approach
Authors: Alshanskaia Evgeniia I. , Portnova Galina V. , Liaukovich Krystsina , Martynova Olga V.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Pupil dilation is controlled both by sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system branches. We hypothesized that the dynamic of pupil size changes under cognitive load with additional false feedback can predict individual behavior along with heart rate variability (HRV) patterns and eye movements reflecting specific adaptability to cognitive stress. To test this, we employed an unsupervised machine learning approach to recognize groups of individuals distinguished by pupil dilation dynamics and then compared their autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses along with time, performance, and self-esteem indicators in cognitive tasks.

Methods

Cohort of 70 participants were exposed to tasks with increasing cognitive load and deception, with measurements of pupillary dynamics, HRV, eye movements, and cognitive performance and behavioral data. Utilizing machine learning k-means clustering algorithm, pupillometry data were segmented to distinct responses to increasing cognitive load and deceit. Further analysis compared clusters, focusing on how physiological (HRV, eye movements) and cognitive metrics (time, mistakes, self-esteem) varied across two clusters of different pupillary response patterns, investigating the relationship between pupil dynamics and autonomic reactions.

Results

Cluster analysis of pupillometry data identified two distinct groups with statistically significant varying physiological and behavioral responses. Cluster 0 showed elevated HRV, alongside larger initial pupil sizes. Cluster 1 participants presented lower HRV but demonstrated increased and pronounced oculomotor activity. Behavioral differences included reporting more errors and lower self-esteem in Cluster 0, and faster response times with more precise reactions to deception demonstrated by Cluster 1. Lifestyle variations such as smoking habits and differences in Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores were significant between the clusters.

Conclusion

The differentiation in pupillary dynamics and related metrics between the clusters underlines the complex interplay between autonomic regulation, cognitive load, and behavioral responses to cognitive load and deceptive feedback. These findings underscore the potential of pupillometry combined with machine learning in identifying individual differences in stress resilience and cognitive performance. Our research on pupillary dynamics and ANS patterns can lead to the development of remote diagnostic tools for real-time cognitive stress monitoring and performance optimization, applicable in clinical, educational, and occupational settings.
Non-targeted metabolomic analysis of non-volatile metabolites in a novel Chinese industrially fermented low-salt kohlrabi
Authors: Jia Xiaohan , Wang Xinyi , Chen Hongfan , Liu Dayu , Deng Bo , Ao Ling , Yang Jianping , Nie Xin , Zhao Zhiping
Published: August 2024

Low-temperature and low-salt fermented Chinese kohlrabi (LSCK) represents a novel approach to producing low-salt kohlrabi without the need for desalination during processing, as compared to traditional techniques. However, the profile of its non-volatile metabolites remains unclear. In order to investigate the non-volatile metabolites and their changes in LSCK during fermentation, the LSCKs fermented for 0 day (0D), 45 days (45D) and 90 days (90D) were analyzed using LC-MS/MS non-targeted metabolomics coupled with multivariate statistical analysis. The results showed that 60, 74, and 68 differential metabolites were identified in the three groups A1 (0D and 45D), A2 (0D and 90D), and A3 (45D and 90D) (VIP >1, p < 0.05, Log2FC >1), respectively. The differential metabolites were mainly amino acids, peptides, and analogues, fatty acyls, organic acids and derivatives, and carbohydrates and carbohydrate conjugates. Seventeen common differential metabolites were identified in A1, A2, and A3 groups. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis suggested that the alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, butanoate metabolism, α-linolenic acid metabolism, arginine biosynthesis, and phenylalanine metabolism were significantly correlated with the differential metabolites. The present study elucidates for the first time the changes in non-volatile differential metabolites and their associated metabolic pathways in the novel Chinese low-salt kohlrabi, providing a theoretical basis for improving the industrial fermentation process of this innovative product.
Renal metastasis of gastric cancer caused acute kidney injury which resulted with hemodialysis: case report and literature review
Authors: Dilber Ivo , Pleština Stjepko , Kekez Domina , Šokec Ivana Vukovac , Ćorić Marijana , Prejac Juraj
Published: August 2024

Gastric cancer ranks fourth among the most commonly diagnosed cancers, with over a million new cases diagnosed worldwide each year. Acute and chronic kidney damage are common in patients with malignant diseases and are associated with increased risk of complications and mortality. Rarely, acute renal insufficiency may result from bilateral infiltration of renal parenchyma by tumor cells from another organ. We present a case of a patient with clinical suspected gastric cancer and metastases to the kidneys leading to acute renal failure requiring hemodialysis. Despite gastric biopsies, no tumor cells were found, while histopathological examination of enlarged intra-abdominal lymph node biopsy material confirmed adenocarcinoma of signet ring cell originating from the digestive system. Stomach cancer was identified as the most likely primary site after the kidney biopsy was performed. To the best of our knowledge, no case of gastric cancer leading to kidney metastases and acute renal failure requiring renal replacement therapy was yet described. Multidisciplinary collaboration among oncologists, urologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nephrologists is essential for the optimal treatment outcome of these patients, who generally have a poor prognosis.
Current antiviral agents against human adenoviruses associated with respiratory infections
Authors: Li Lexi , Xie Zhengde , Xu Lili
Published: August 2024

Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) are important pathogens responsible for respiratory infections. In children and immunocompromised patients, respiratory infections can cause considerable morbidity and mortality. Currently, there are no approved effective and safe antiviral therapeutics for the clinical treatment of HAdV infections, even those that have undergone preclinical/clinical trials. However, many compounds and molecules with anti-HAdV activity have been explored, and some candidates are undergoing clinical development. Here, we reviewed the reported in vitro and in vivo efficacies, as well as the therapeutic potential of these antiviral compounds, providing an overview and a summary of the current status of anti-HAdV drug development.
An experimental field study of inbreeding depression in an outcrossing invasive plant
Authors: Balogh Christopher M. , Barrett Spencer C. H.
Published: August 2024

Inbreeding depression is likely to play an important role during biological invasion. But relatively few studies have investigated the fitness of selfed and outcrossed offspring in self-incompatible invasive plants in natural environments in their introduced range. Moreover, the majority of studies on inbreeding depression have investigated self-compatible species with mixed mating, and less is known about the intensity of inbreeding depression in outcrossing self-incompatible species. Here, we address these questions experimentally by comparing selfed and outcrossed progeny of purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) over four growing seasons, including three under field conditions in a freshwater marsh in southern Ontario, Canada, a region where L. salicaria is highly invasive. The tristylous mating system of L. salicaria involves disassortative mating among floral morphs enforced by trimorphic incompatibility. However, owing to partial incompatibility, self-fertilized seed can be obtained by manual self-pollination thus facilitating comparisons of selfed and outcrossed progeny. We compared progeny with and without intraspecific competition from selfed or outcrossed neighbours and examined the influence of breeding treatment and competition on fitness correlates by measuring a range of life-history traits including: proportion of seeds germinating, days to germination, survival, proportion of plants flowering, time to flowering, vegetative mass, and inflorescence number and mass. We analysed data for each trait using functions from time series estimates of growth and two multiplicative estimates of fitness. We detected varying intensities of inbreeding depression for several traits in three of the four years of the experiment, including inflorescence mass and reproductive output. Cumulative inbreeding depression over four years averaged δ = 0.48 and 0.68, depending on the method used to estimate multiplicative fitness. The competition treatments did not significantly affect plant performance and the magnitude of inbreeding depression. Given the primarily outcrossing mating system of L. salicaria populations, the detection of inbreeding depression for several key life-history traits was as predicted by theory. Our results suggests that biparental inbreeding and low selfing in colonizing populations may have significant effects on demographic parameters such as population growth.
Global research trends on psychological well‑being of children in foster care homes from 2003 to 2023: a bibliometric analysis using Scopus database
Authors: Priyadarshini D Sandhiya , Jose Tony P.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The study focuses on contemporary trends in the psychological well‑being of foster children residing in care homes over the past two decades. Moreover, it aims to predict future research directions by analyzing hotspots, offering valuable references for academics engaged in further studies in this field.

Methods

A quantitative analysis was conducted on nine hundred and twelve documents, including research papers and reviews, from 2003 to 2023. These publications focused on the psychological well‑being of foster children and were incorporated from the Scopus database. For visual analysis, we utilized the bibliometric analytical tool VOSviewer to generate a map of information on the authors, journals, organizations, nations, citations, and keywords. We also employed Microsoft Excel tables to record the essential details.

Results

The psychological well‑being of children and adolescents residing in foster homes is an emerging area of research. The findings show that there has been an ongoing rise in relevant research publications over time. The United States (416) and Harvard Medical School (56) were the most active countries and organizations in this study. AIDS Care: Psychological and Socio-Medical Aspects of AIDS/HIV (91 articles) and Vulnerable Children and Youth Studies (86 articles) are two prominent journals, while the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry had the most co-citations (630). Nelson (52 publications) and Zeanah (50 publications) are the top two leading authors based on citation counts. Institutional care, orphans, HIV/AIDS orphans, psychological well‑being, and mental health, resilience are popular research keywords in this study.

Conclusion

This study indicates the prevailing interest in the specified domains over the past two decades. Our findings primarily indicate that addressing mental health concerns, along with understanding the needs of children in foster care homes, can enhance their psychological well‑being. Developing effective interventions to enhance the psychological well‑being of children in foster care is bound to have a profound effect on them and will serve as a key focus for future research in this field.
An examination of the curvilinear relationship between person-job fit and innovative behavior: the moderating role of abusive supervision in South Korea
Authors: Kim Jinhee , Lee Soojin
Published: August 2024

Although literature suggests that a higher person-job fit leads to more innovative behavior, some recent studies have shown inconsistent results with the assumption of such a linear relationship between the two constructs. Considering these inconsistent findings, the present study aims to examine a curvilinear relationship between person-job fit and innovative behavior. Innovative behavior represents an individual's actions that come up with, realize, and apply novel ideas within the job environment, and person-job fit, which pertains to the value congruence between the job and individual, can be a critical predictor of innovative behavior. Drawing on the triphasic model of stress and the conservation of resources theory, this study hypothesizes that person-job fit has a non-linear relationship with innovative behavior, and that abusive supervision moderates this relationship. The regression analysis results of the 180 employee-supervisor dyadic data revealed that person-job fit and innovative behavior have a non-linear relationship. Furthermore, the non-linear relationship is (1) weakened (linearly positive) when abusive supervision is high and (2) strengthened when abusive supervision is low. By integrating multiple theoretical lenses, the present study offers a more sophisticated understanding of individual employees' psychological reactions to job fit discrepancies and their innovative outcomes in organizational settings. Theoretical and practical implications and directions for future research are also discussed.
Exploring core symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome in alcohol use disorder patients: a network analysis approach
Authors: Shen Guanghui , Chen Yu-Hsin , Wu Yuyu , Jiahui Huang , Fang Juan , Jiayi Tang , Yimin Kang , Wang Wei , Liu Yanlong , Wang Fan , Chen Li
Published: August 2024

Background

Understanding the interplay between psychopathology of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) in alcohol use disorder (AUD) patients may improve the effectiveness of relapse interventions for AUD. Network theory of mental disorders assumes that mental disorders persist not of a common functional disorder, but from a sustained feedback loop between symptoms, thereby explaining the persistence of AWS and the high relapse rate of AUD. The current study aims to establish a network of AWS, identify its core symptoms and find the bridges between the symptoms which are intervention target to relieve the AWS and break the self-maintaining cycle of AUD.

Methods

Graphical lasso network were constructed using psychological symptoms of 553 AUD patients. Global network structure, centrality indices, cluster coefficient, and bridge symptom were used to identify the core symptoms of the AWS network and the transmission pathways between different symptom clusters.

Results

The results revealed that: (1) AWS constitutes a stable symptom network with a stability coefficient (CS) of 0.21-0.75. (2) Anger (Strength = 1.52) and hostility (Strength = 0.84) emerged as the core symptom in the AWS network with the highest centrality and low clustering coefficient. (3) Hostility mediates aggression and anxiety; anger mediates aggression and impulsivity in AWS network respectively.

Conclusions

Anger and hostility may be considered the best intervention targets for researching and treating AWS. Hostility and anxiety, anger and impulsiveness are independent but related dimensions, suggesting that different neurobiological bases may be involved in withdrawal symptoms, which play a similar role in withdrawal syndrome.
Gender differences in the subjective wellbeing of the older adults and the determinant factors: a case study of Nanjing
Authors: Feng Jianxi , Zheng Min
Published: August 2024

Objective

This paper aims to examine the gendered differences in the subjective wellbeing of older adults and underlying determinant factors which contribute to these differences in China where the unique social and cultural systems, the consequent concept of filial piety and the perceptions towards different living arrangements in later life provide an excellent laboratory for studying the topic.

Methods

Hierarchical linear models are employed to analyze the impacts of household structure and built environment on the subjective wellbeing of older adults based on a survey conducted in Nanjing in 2021.

Results

There are significant gender differences in the subjective wellbeing of older adults, with older women reporting higher levels of subjective wellbeing (4.95 vs.4.69). Gender differences also exist in how the built environment affects the subjective wellbeing of older adults, with a greater impact on older adult women (33.68% vs. 28.50%). Household structure impacts the subjective wellbeing of older adults through the division of housework and the company of family members.

Conclusion

There are three major mechanisms through which gender affects the subjective wellbeing of older adults, including structural mechanisms, socio-cultural mechanisms, and physiological mechanisms. Targeted environmental interventions and urban planning policies are recommended to promote the subjective wellbeing of older adults.
Reliability of MyotonPro in measuring the biomechanical properties of the quadriceps femoris muscle in people with different levels and types of motor preparation
Authors: Trybulski Robert , Kużdżał Adrian , Wilk Michał , Więckowski Jakub , Fostiak Krzysztof , Muracki Jarosław
Published: August 2024

The aim of this research was to evaluate the reliability of the measurements of biomechanical parameters of the muscles of athletes representing different disciplines as well as untrained people. Ninety-four young, healthy male individuals participated in the study and were divided into five subgroups: footballers (n = 25), volleyballers (n = 14), handballers (n = 19), MMA fighters (n = 16), and undrained group (n = 20). All of the participants underwent measurements of stiffness (S), muscle tone (T) and elasticity (E) by two independent measurers using MyotonPro equipment. Analysis was conducted on two different parts of the quadriceps femoris: rectus femoris (RF) and vastus medialis (VM. Consequently, the comprehensive analysis comprised 564 measurements (94 participants * 3 parameters = 282 * 2 measurers = 564). The results proves high reliability of the myotonometry (Pearson's CC over 0.8208–0.8871 for different parameters, ICC from to 0.74 to 0.99 for different muscles and parameters) excluding only stiffness for the VM which was characterized withlow ICC of 0.08 and relatively highest between the examined parameters MAE% of 8.7% which still remains low value. The most significant differences between the parameters in examined groups were observed between MMA fighters and volleyballers in terms of muscle tone and elasticity of the VM (correlation of 0.14842 and 0.15083 respecitively). These results confirm the usability of myotonometry in measuring the biomechanical properties of the muscles in different sports groups and confirm the independence of the results obtained from the person performing the measurement.
Can deciphering the growth of Meckel's diverticulum help us to decide the resection technique?
Authors: Can Mehmet , Ergin Malik , Okur Özkan , Payza Ayşe Demet , Polatdemir Kamer , Oral Akgün
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The employment of laparoscopic surgical techniques has reignited the debate on managing Meckel's Diverticulum (MD) due to its low complication rates. Nevertheless, concerns have been raised regarding completely removing any potential heterotopic mucosa. Our study aimed to compare surgical approaches in MD and assess the effectiveness of simple diverticulectomy.

Methods

Between 2003 and 2022, 139 patients with MD were retrospectively analysed. The study examined the morphometric measurements of the diverticulum and the location of the heterotopic mucosa in the diverticulum regarding growth and symptoms.

Results

Simple diverticulectomy achieved the lowest postoperative complication rate among excision techniques (p = 0.03). MD's length, diameter, and distance to the ileocecal valve increase linearly with growth in the first three years of life (p = 0.00, p = 0.01, p = 0.00) but not in subsequent years (p = 0.81, p = 0.43, p = 0.21). As the length of the MD increases, the heterotopic mucosa (HM) is displaced distally (p = 0.01). Patients in whom HM reaches the base of the diverticulum always present with bleeding (p = 0.02).

Discussion

Simple diverticulectomy is a safe technique for Meckel's diverticulum resection. Meckel's diverticulum continues to grow until the age of 3. With this growth, the heterotopic mucosa is displaced distally and moves away from the base of the diverticulum. Bleeding is the main symptom in patients with HM reaching the base of the diverticulum. In patients with bleeding or younger than three years of age, simple diverticulectomy may not be considered safe.

Level of Evidence: III
Assessment of Turbulence Models for Cylinder Flow Aeroacoustics
Authors: Wang Xiao , Bhushan Shanti , Sescu Adrian , Luke Edward , Manshoor Bukhari , Hattori Yuji
Published: August 2024

Numerical simulations are performed for flows over a circular cylinder at a Reynolds number ranging from 150 to 5000, and Mach number of 0.2, to assess the predictive capability of URANS and hybrid RANS/LES for acoustic waves generation and propagation. Complementary direct numerical simulations (DNS) are performed to generate validation datasets and to provide more insight into the problem. DNS predictions show that noise induced by the vortex shedding is radiated primarily at a 90-degree angle with respect to the wake direction and dictates the dominant frequency of the sound pressure waves. Turbulence dominates the noise in the near-field wake, resulting in a broadband pressure spectrum. URANS both underpredicts and overpredicts the noise levels in the wake region and in the direction normal to the freestream flow, respectively, which is attributed to its inability to accurately predict the turbulent kinetic energy content. Hybrid RANS/LES computations, using a second-order low-dissipation optimization-based gradient reconstruction scheme on a grid that is three times coarser than the DNS, provide an accurate prediction of the far-field noise levels, except in the wake region, where they are overpredictive.