bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abrasive Machining Techniques for Biomedical Device Applications
Authors: Dehghanghadikolaei Amir
Published: January 2024

Abrasive machining and finishing processes are techniques of material removal that are introduced in order to cut workpiece materials with the nominal mechanical and thermal residual stresses. These processes utilize continuous material removal by abrasive medium that can be in forms of water, abrasive particles or a mixture of these two. The benefit of eliminating excessive mechanical cutting force results in enhanced cutting of brittle or soft materials. On the other hand, removal of thermal cutting source provides a capability of cutting plastics and diminished the chances of thermal cracking in workpiece. Abrasive finishing processes have been introduced as complementary to abrasive cutting techniques in order to increase the precision and surface quality of manufactured parts. The most common of these techniques are water jet machining (WJM), abrasive jet machining (AJM), abrasive water jet machining (AWJM) and magnetic abrasive machining processes such as magnetic abrasive finishing (MAF), magneto-rheological abrasive finishing (MRF) and magneto-rheological abrasive flow finishing (MRAFF).
Comfort Properties of Textiles: A Review of Some Breakthroughs in Recent Research
Authors: Gokarneshan N
Published: January 2024

The article critically reviews the recent research trends related to comfort characteristics of fabrics. The comfort properties of fabrics are of sensorial and non sensorial nature. Many researches have focussed on these aspects. Comparative studies on cotton and cotton/polyester blend fabrics woven in various designs have shown that cotton fabrics exhibit better comfort properties than their blend counterpart. Active sports wear is one area where comfort is crucial. In this regard the comfort properties of different bi layered knitted structures made from outer layer comprising of tencel yarn and inner layer of acrylic/microfiber polyester. Such an investigation is intended to largely help the researchers who are analysing the comfort characteristics of layered knitted fabrics for sports wear. Utilization of recycled polyester in the knit apparel industry is ever increasing but the characterization of knit apparel made from recycled polyester yarns is limited to mechanical and moisture management properties.
Fractal-Numerical Duality in Materials Science
Authors: FI Mavrikidi
Published: January 2024

The article sets forth the results obtained by the authors of applying a new mathematical model called the numerical asymmetry of fractals, which reflects the size effects that I.V. Tananaev proposed to consider as an additional degree of freedom in the transformations of matter.
Influence of 10% NaCl on Carbon Structural P235TR2 Steel at 25oC
Authors: Lipiński Tomasz
Published: January 2024

Steels dedicated to work in a corrosive environment are corrosion-resistant steels. Nevertheless, unalloyed steels also work in corrosive environments. Low-carbon non-alloy steels are a popular construction material for pipelines. They owe their popularity to low costs and good susceptibility to welding. An example of the use of steel is pipelines for the transmission of various substances. These substances often contain sodium chlorides. Unalloyed steels are prone to surface corrosion. This type of corrosion does not pose a high risk of failure, is completely predictable and can be monitored very well by measuring the wall thickness of the pipeline with non-destructive methods. Pipelines can be placed in production halls. Unless the temperature of the flowing medium is increased (these steels are not usually used for work at reduced temperatures), their operating temperature is about 20-25oC. Taking the above into account, tests of the corrosion rate of the popular P235TR2 steel grade at 25oC were carried out. The corrosive environment was a 10% NaCl aqueous solution. Samples were taken from the tube and soaked in NaCl solution for up to 432 hours, with weight loss determined every 48 hours. It was found that P235TR2 steel has a satisfactory corrosion resistance to low concentrations of NaCl at 25oC. The nature of the corrosion process was classic and consisted of two typical stages. In the first, the steel showed high resistance to the applied corrosive environment, in the second, due to the progressive development of the surface, the corrosion rate increased at a higher rate.
The Effect of Cement Type and Granulometry on the Injectability of Suspension Grouts for Soil Improvement – A Mini Review
Authors: Christodoulou Dimitrios
Published: January 2024

The safe construction and operation of many engineering projects often requires the improvement of the properties and mechanical behavior of the soil formations occurring in their area. Impregnation injections are one of the oldest methods of improving soil formations and present a wide range of applications. The injectability and penetrability of cement-based slurries are significantly affected by factors such as cement granulometry, water-to-cement ratio, grain size and degree of sand compaction, type and dosage of slurry admixtures, mixing process and the impregnation pressure. The object of this paper is to investigate the effect of cement suspensions type and granulometry on the injectability and penetrability within soil formations.
Angioembolization performed by trauma surgeons for trauma patients: is it feasible in Korea? A retrospective study
Authors: Kwon Soonseong , Kim Kyounghwan , Jeong Soon Tak , Kim Joongsuck , Yeo Kwanghee , Kwon Ohsang , Park Sung Jin , Gwak Jihun , Kang Wu Seong
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Recent advancements in interventional radiology have made angioembolization an invaluable modality in trauma care. Angioembolization is typically performed by interventional radiologists. In this study, we aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of emergency angioembolization performed by trauma surgeons.Methods: We identified trauma patients who underwent emergency angiography due to significant trauma-related hemorrhage between January 2020 and June 2023 at our trauma center. Until May 2022, two dedicated interventional radiologists performed emergency angiography at our center. However, since June 2022, a trauma surgeon with a background and experience in vascular surgery has performed emergency angiography for trauma-related bleeding. The indications for trauma surgeon–performed angiography included significant hemorrhage from liver injury, pelvic injury, splenic injury, or kidney injury. We assessed the angiography results according to the operator of the initial angiographic procedure. The term “failure of the first angioembolization” was defined as rebleeding from any cause, encompassing patients who underwent either re-embolization due to rebleeding or surgery due to rebleeding.Results: No significant differences were found between the interventional radiologists and the trauma surgeon in terms of re-embolization due to rebleeding, surgery due to rebleeding, or the overall failure rate of the first angioembolization. Mortality and morbidity rates were also similar between the two groups. In a multivariable logistic regression analysis evaluating failure after the first angioembolization, pelvic embolization emerged as the sole significant risk factor (adjusted odds ratio, 3.29; 95% confidence interval, 1.05–10.33; P=0.041). Trauma surgeon–performed angioembolization was not deemed a significant risk factor in the multivariable logistic regression model.Conclusions: Trauma surgeons, when equipped with the necessary endovascular skills and experience, can safely perform angioembolization. To further improve quality control, an enhanced training curriculum for trauma surgeons is warranted.
Mutation-based therapies for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: new options on the horizon
Authors: Pan Si-yuan , Ye Yu-Hang , Zhou Zheng-Jun , Fan Jia , Zhou Jian , Zhou Shao-Lai
Published: January 2024

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), a rare but rising global malignancy originating from the bile ducts, poses significant challenges in terms of effective treatment and patient outcomes. While surgical excision remains the curative option, its limited efficacy necessitates more therapeutic strategies, including systemic therapies. The management of ICC involves a multidisciplinary approach, with treatment decisions guided by patient-specific and tumor-specific factors. Gemcitabine-cisplatin (GEMCIS) chemotherapy has been a standard first-line therapy, but recent advancements in immunotherapy, particularly the introduction of durvalumab, have provided new hope. Additionally, gene mutation-based therapies, targeting fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs), isocitrate dehydrogenase-1 (IDH1), human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2), and B-RAF proto-oncogene (BRAF), offer promising prospects for personalized treatment. High-throughput genomic profiling technologies have facilitated the identification of actionable targets and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. This review summarizes the mutation-based therapies in ICC, including FDA-approved targeted drugs and ongoing clinical trials, highlighting the evolving landscape of ICC treatment.
Roadmap for ferroelectric domain wall memory
Authors: Sun Jie , Li Yiming , Hu Di , Shen Bowen , Zhang Boyang , Wang Zilong , Tang Haiyue , Jiang Anquan
Published: January 2024

Commercial nonvolatile Ferroelectric Random Access Memory employs a destructive readout scheme based on charge sensing, which limits its cell scalability in sizes above 100 nm. Ferroelectric domain walls are two-dimensional topological interfaces with thicknesses approaching the unit cell level between two antiparallel domains and exhibit electrical conductivity, distinguishing them from insulating matrices that are uniformly ordered. Recently, novel research has been devoted to utilizing this extraordinary interface for the application in nonvolatile memory with nanometer-sized scalability and low energy consumption. Here, we pay more attention to the development of the domain wall memory technologies in the future with challenges and opportunities to design planar and vertical arrays of the memory cells in the CMOS platform.
Adolescent abortions in the Covid-19 landscape: Exposing the legal Achilles’ heel
Authors: Jain Dipika , Rastogi Anubha
Published: January 2024

The law ought to ensure that reproductive health services are accessible to all persons — married or unmarried — without subjecting them to heightened scrutiny or procedural requirements. However, the intersection of various laws and their impact on the willingness of medical professionals to offer abortion and reproductive health services to adolescents makes timely, safe, and affordable abortions difficult for adolescents to obtain. This challenge is exacerbated by a lack of public healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas, and the overall restricted access to healthcare services during the Covid-19 pandemic. We delve into how legal uncertainties and gaps in multiple legislations pose obstacles for adolescents seeking abortion services, particularly in consensual sexual relationships. We specifically examine the unintended barriers stemming from the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 (POCSO), which categorises consensual sexual relationships among adolescents as sexual offences without recognising their evolving sexual autonomy. Notably, POCSO includes a mandatory reporting provision, compelling the reporting of all sexual offences involving a “child” to law enforcement. This complexity is further compounded by the requirement for third-party authorisation for abortion by medical boards. The Indian courts, in rendering inconsistent, moralistic, and biased judgments on adolescent access to abortion services during the Covid-19 pandemic, contributed to the complexities.
OPERATION OF A NEW SINGLE-VIBRATOR CONVEYOR ON THE FALLING SLOPE OF THE SECOND RESONANCE
Authors: ŻMUDA Weronika , CZUBAK Piotr
Published: January 2024

The paper presents the possibilities of operating an innovative single-vibrator-driven vibratory conveyor [1] in the vicinity of the second resonance zone. The characteristics of operation on both ascending and descending slopes are presented. The differences in the suspension deflection of the additional mass (which is a dynamic eliminator) during operation before and after the resonance were analyzed. We proposed working on the descending slope of the second resonance in order to increase the durability of the device. This is because the amplitude of the suspension deflection of the additional mass is limited and, due to its high stiffness, is exposed to material fatigue. This is an unusual method of operation for conveyors because it carries certain risks, such as the risk of the device entering resonance on its own or the problem of maintaining constant angular velocity of the unbalanced masses. This paper presents both analytical and simulation studies, which were then confirmed on a laboratory stand designed and built by the authors.
Application of Surface-Stress Driven Model for Higher Vibrations Modes of Functionally Graded Nanobeams
Authors: Lovisi Giuseppe , Feo Luciano , Lambiase Annavirginia , Penna Rosa
Published: January 2024

This manuscript employs a surface stress-driven nonlocal model to explore the combined effects of long-range interaction and surface energy on higher vibration modes of functionally graded nanobeams. The nanobeam theory, based on Bernoulli-Euler kinematics, incorporates surface effects such as surface elasticity, surface residual stresses, surface density, and rotary inertia. Hamilton's principle is applied to derive the governing equation with size-dependent considerations. The main outcomes of a parametric investigation, considering four different kinematic boundary conditions (Cantilever, Simply-Supported, Clamped-Pinned, and Doubly-Clamped) while varying the nonlocal parameter and material gradient index, are presented and discussed. Additionally, the normalized natural frequencies for the second, third, fourth and fifth modes of vibrations are provided and analyzed for each case under study. The results underscore the model's effectiveness in capturing surface energy effects on the overall dynamic behavior of functionally graded Bernoulli-Euler nanobeams, offering a cost-effective approach for designing and optimizing nano-scaled structures.
Using Circular Economy and Supply Chain as a Framework for Remanufactured Products in the Rubber Recycling Industry
Authors: Hsieh Hsi-Huang , Yao Kai-Chao , Wang Ching-Hsin , Chen Chih-Han , Huang Shu-Hua
Published: January 2024

The circular supply chain was applied to many industries in the past studies, whereas the rubber recycling industry has not been explored in detail yet. Therefore, this study indentified the key factors of the circular supply chain used in remanufactured products, thereby perfecting its framework. This study put forward 5 aspects and 19 criteria for reference, so that companies in the rubber recycling industry are able to clearly know the direction of implementation when con-structing the circular supply chain for remanufactured products. This study integrated expert opinions with the fuzzy Delphi method and the fuzzy decision making trial and evaluation laboratory proposed key factors, and performed the ranking of importance. The results have displayed that key aspects include the circular business model (A3), increasing the value of resources in the supply chain (A4), and risk management of the circular supply chain (A2). The factors that the rubber recycling industry needs to pay attention to are: optimizing the production process (C2), sharing data in the product lifecycle (C4), effectively tracking and recycling products (C5), redesigning remanufactured products (C13), enhancing resource efficiency (C16), and identifying waste composition and separating materials (C14) . Based on the abovementioned, we had a discussion in this study.
Effects of Root Trace Nitrogen Reduction in Arid Areas on Sucrose Starch Metabolism and Yield of Flag Leaves and Grains of Spring Wheat under Drip Irrigation
Authors: Ma Yilin , Wang Haiqi , Liu Jianguo , Wang Rongrong , Che Ziqiang
Published: January 2024

To investigate the effect of nitrogen (N) application on carbon metabolism and yield of flag leaves and grains of spring wheat under drip irrigation in Xinjiang, a split - plot design was adopted from 2020 to 2021, with strong gluten wheat Xinchun 37 (XC37) and medium gluten wheat Xinchun 6 (XC 6) as the main plot factor and different nitrogen application rates as subplot factor. Four nitrogen application rates of 0, 210, 255 and 300 kg·hm-2 (CK2, B1, A1 and CK1, respectively) were set to analyze and compare the nitrogen response of key enzyme activity, soluble sugar, sucrose and starch content in flag leaves and grains to control yield formation. The results showed that with the increase of nitrogen application, Sucrose phosphate synthetase (SPS) and sucrose synthetase (SS) in flag leaves, SS in seeds, activities of adenosine diphosphate pyrophosphorylase (ADPG - PPase), soluble starch synthase (SSS), bound starch synthase (GBSS) and starch branching enzyme (SBE) in seeds, contents of soluble sugar and sucrose and yield in flag leaves increased first increasing and then decreasing. The A1 treatment (255 kg·hm-2) showed significant differences compared to other treatments, with increases of 7.95–158.33%, 8.69–155.12%, 7.65–53.25%, 5.41–62.83%, 2.85–85.52%, 3.08–57.30%, 8.87–79.16%, 9.33–196.55%, 9.43–112.78%, and higher levels of amylose, amylopectin, and total starch content than other treatments by 1.86–30.38%, 10.58–83.69%, and 7.96–63.09%, respectively. Correlation and stepwise regression analysis indicate highly significant positive correlation between yield and solube sugar and sucrose of flag leaves and grains, as well as their key emzymes and starch. Among them, soluble sugar in grains, amylopectin, and sucrose in grains have the greatest impact on the yield of XC37, determining 84.5% of its yield. SSS, soluble sugars in grains, amylopectin, and SBE have the greatest impact on the yield of XC 6, determining 80.4% of its yield. The starch shows a highly significant positive correlation with ADPG - PPase, SSS, GBSS, and SBE. There is a significant interaction effect between nitrogen application rate and variety, with better performance observed in Xinchun 37 compared to Xinchun 6. Under drip irrigation conditions in arid areas, nitrogen application of 255 kg·hm-2 can effectively regulate the metabolism of sucrose to starch in flag leaves and grains of spring wheat, which is conducive to the accumulation of starch in grains and the formation of yield.
Correlation Analysis between Core Stability Levels and Sports Performance in the Aerial Phase of Taekwondo Wing Kicks
Authors: Guan Lihao , Li Kai , Li Han , Kim Youngsuk , Kim Sukwon
Published: January 2024

To win a taekwondo competition, more points must be scored, and the key to scoring points is to improve the motor performance of the kick. The wing kick is an offensive and defensive maneuver. Core stability appears to be important for improving athletic performance, but the specific relationship and effect of core stability on athletic performance in the aerial phase of taekwondo is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between core stability and athletic performance in taekwondo in order to provide appropriate theoretical support for training and to help coaches and athletes to improve athletic performance. A total of 16 subjects (height: 167.34±9.2 cm; weight: 61±8.96 kg; age: 24.7±3.25 years) were studied. Data were captured using 13 infrared cameras at 120Hz, kinematic and kinetic data were captured using a motivated motion capture system, and the data were exported to Visual3D in order to calculate the execution time of the aerial phase, the angular momentum of the left lower extremity, and MVC analysis of the EMG using EMG works. The core stability level of the subjects were measured using the Sahrmann Core Stability Test (SCST) to correlate with the other data, and then the subjects were grouped according to their core stability levels and the data from both groups were analyzed with t-tests. Results During the double fly lifting of aerial segments, SCST levels showed a very strong negative correlation with execution time (r= -0.739) and there was a statistically significant difference in execution time between high and low SCST levels (p < 0.001), and the desired negative correlation was also seen in lower limb angular momentum X-axis (thigh r= -0.6294, shank r= -0.536, foot r= -0.6175), especially in the X-axis. The left rectus femoris (LRF) data had greater activation in the low SCST group(p=0.0019*). Through this experiment, we found that athletes with high core stability had faster execution times, lower angular momentum, and higher core muscle activation. Therefore, we conclude that incorporating core stability training into taekwondo training has the potential to improve kicking performance.
Proteomic Profiling of Plasma and Gut-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Obesity
Authors: Baptista Pereira Pedro , Torrejón Estefa , Ferreira Inês , Carvalho Ana Sofia , Teshima Akiko , Sousa-Lima Inês , Beck Hans Christian , Costa-Silva Bruno , Matthiesen Rune , Macedo Maria Paula , Oliveria Rita Machado
Published: January 2024

Obesity entails metabolic alterations across multiple organs, highlighting the role of inter-organ communication in its pathogenesis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are communication agents in physiological and pathological conditions and although they have been associated with obesi-ty-comorbidities, their protein cargo in this context remain largely unknown. To decipher the messages encapsulated in EVs, we isolated plasma derived EVs from diet induced obese murine models. Obese plasma EVs exhibited a decline in protein diversity while control EVs revealed significant enrichment in protein folding functions, highlighting the importance of proper folder in maintaining metabolic homeostasis. Previously, we revealed that gut derived EVs proteome holds particular significance in obesity. Here, we compared plasma and gut EVs and identified four proteins exclusively present in the control state of both EVs, revealing the potential for a non-invasive assessment of gut health by analyzing blood derived EVs. Given the relevance of post-translational modifications (PTMs), we observed a shift in chromatin-related proteins from glycation to acetylation in obese gut EVs, suggesting a regulatory mechanism targeting DNA transcription during obesity. This study provides valuable insights into novel roles of EVs and protein post-translational modifications in the intricate mechanisms underlying obesity, shed-ding light on potential biomarkers and pathways for future research.
Nitrogen nutrition modulates the response to Alternaria brassicicola infection via metabolic modifications in Arabidopsis seedlings
Authors: Barrit Thibault , Planchet Elisabeth , Lothier Jérémy , Satour Pascale , Aligon Sophie , Tcherkez Guillaume , Limami Anis M. , Campion Claire , Teulat Béatrice
Published: January 2024

Little is known about the effect of nitrogen nutrition on seedling susceptibility to seed-borne pathogens. We have previously shown that seedlings grown under high nitrate (5 mM) conditions are less susceptible than those grown under low nitrate (0.1 mM) and ammonium (5 mM) in the Arabidopsis-Alternaria brassicicola pathosystem. However, it is not known how seedling metabolism is modulated by nitrogen nutrition, nor what is its response to pathogen infection. Here, we addressed this question using the same pathosystem and nutritive conditions, examining germination kinetics, seedling development, but also shoot ion contents, metabolome and selected gene expression. Nitrogen nutrition clearly altered the seedling metabolome. A similar metabolomic profile was observed in inoculated seedlings grown at high nitrate levels and in not inoculated-seedlings. High nitrate levels also led to specific gene expression patterns (e.g. polyamine metabolism), while other genes responded to inoculation regardless of nitrogen supply conditions. Furthermore, the metabolites best correlated with high disease symptoms were coumarate, tyrosine, hemicellulose sugars and polyamines, and those associated with low symptoms were organic acids (tricarboxylic acid pathway, glycerate, shikimate), sugars derivatives and β-alanine. Overall, our results suggest that the beneficial effect of high nitrate nutrition on seedling susceptibility is likely due to nutritive and signaling mechanisms affecting developmental plant processes detrimental to the pathogen. In particular, it may be due to a constitutively high tryptophan metabolism, as well as down regulation of oxidative stress caused by polyamine catabolism.
The Economic Burden of Alopecia Areata in Romania
Authors: Strilciuc Stefan , Olteanu Rodica , Lăpădatu Rozalina , Grad Diana-Alecsandra , Vlădescu Cristian , Nicolescu Alin Codruț
Published: January 2024

Background: Alopecia areata is a skin disease that affects patients’ quality of life and social participation. Objective: To quantify the economic burden of alopecia areata and to map health services utilization among patients with alopecia areata.Materials and methods: Prospective and retrospective data sources, using both top-down and bottom-up approaches to estimate direct and indirect costs and to map health service utilization associated with alopecia areata in Romania in 2022.Results: In our study, the total cost of alopecia areata in Romania for 2022 was estimated at 46.289 million EUR for adult patients and 1.89 million EUR for pediatric patients, encompassing both mild and severe cases. The breakdown reveals that both mild and severe cases incurred the highest costs due to associated expenses, medical services, and treatment. As for children, the highest alopecia-related expenses were represented by associated expenses and treatment costs (for both severity levels).Conclusion: This is the first study to quantify the burden of alopecia areata in Romania. Additional studies are needed due to a low sample size. However, considering our estimations based on external data sources, alopecia areata should be considered when planning health service distribution.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Stimulation in Bone Healing and Joint Preservation: A Narrative Review of the Literature.
Authors: Caruso Gaetano , Massari Leo , Lentini Sebastiano , Saracco Achille
Published: January 2024

Background: biophysical stimulation therapy, and in particular Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMFs) and capacitively coupled electric fields (CCEFs) has significantly increased in the last twenty years. For this, it is necessary to have clear information regarding the efficacy, the therapeutic indication and the expected objectives. Methods: we conducted a narrative review taking into consideration different types of studies with different areas of application. 17 studies present in literature and published in the last 15 years were considered to obtain a clear and broad opinion on this topic. Results: There is unanimous opinion regarding the usefulness of applying biophysical therapy on the bone compartment both in terms of the tissue healing process and the symptoms associated with this situation. Differently, but no less importantly, in the joint compartment positive opinions were observed mainly on the inflammatory and catabolic process, however, we did not report evidence regarding cartilaginous tissue regeneration. Conclusion: the effectiveness of PEMFs and CCEFs on the bone healing process in the Orthopedic and Traumatology fields is consolidated evidence in the literature. We have also found positive results on symptoms and patient compliance with rehabilitation therapies. Therefore, notable application can be envisaged in the fields of Prosthetic Surgery and Sports Medicine.
Dynamic survival risk prognostic model and Genomic Landscape for Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor: A Population-Based, Real-World Study
Authors: Chen Sihao , He Yi , Liu Jiao , Wu Ruixin , Wang Menglei , Jin Aishun
Published: January 2024

Background: Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is an uncommon and aggressive pediatric central nervous system neoplasm. However, a universal clinical consensus or reliable prognostic evaluation system for this malignancy is lacking. Our study aimed to develop a risk model based on comprehensive clinical data to assist in clinical decision-making. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study by examining data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) repository, spanning 2000 to 2019. The external validation cohort was sourced from the Children's Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, China. To discern independent factors affecting overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS), we applied Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) and Random Forest (RF) regression analyses. Based on these factors, we structured nomogram survival predictions and initiated a dynamic online risk-evaluation system. To contrast survival outcomes among diverse treatments, we used propensity score matching (PSM) methodology. Molecular data with the most common mutations in AT/RT were extracted from the Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer (COSMIC) database. Results: The annual incidence of AT/RT showed an increasing trend (APC, 2.86%; 95% CI:0.75-5.01). Our prognostic study included 316 SEER database participants and 27 external validation patients. The entire group had a median OS of 18 months (range 11.5 to 24 months) and median CSS of 21 months (range 11.7 to 29.2). Evaluations involving C-statistics, DCA, and ROC analysis underscored the distinctive capabilities of our prediction model. An analysis via PSM highlighted that individuals undergoing triple therapy (integrating surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy) had discernibly enhanced OS and CSS. The most common mutations of AT/RT identified in the COSMIC database were SMARCB1, BRAF, SMARCA4, NF2, and NRAS. Conclusions: In this study, we devised a predictive model that effectively gauges the prognosis of AT/RT and briefly analyzed its genomic features, which might offer a valuable tool to address existing clinical challenges.
Exploration of Novel Genetic Loci Influencing Mercury Accumulation in Maize through a Genome-wide Association Study Utilizing an Enlarged SNP Panel
Authors: Gao Jionghao , Li Jianxin , Zhang Jihong , Sun Yan , Ju Xiaolong , Li Wenlong , Duan Haiyang , Xue Zhengjie , Sun Li , Javed Hussian Sahito , Fu Zhiyuan , Zhang Xuehai , Tang Jihua
Published: January 2024

Mercury (Hg) pollution not only poses a threat to the environment but also adversely affects the growth and development of plants, with potential repercussions for animals and humans through bioaccumulation in the food chain. Maize, a crucial source of food, industrial materials, and livestock feed, requires special attention in understanding the genetic factors influencing mercury accumulation. Developing maize varieties with low mercury accumulation is vital for both maize production and human health. In this study, a comprehensive genome-wide association study (GWAS) was conducted using an enlarged SNP panel comprising 1.25 million single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 230 maize inbred lines across three environments. The analysis identified 111 significant SNPs within 78 quantitative trait loci (QTL), involving 169 candidate genes under the Q model. Compared to the previous study, the increased marker density and optimized statistical model led to the discovery of 74 additional QTL, demonstrating improved statistical power. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that most genes participate in arsenate reduction and stress responses. Notably, GRMZM2G440968, associated with the significant SNP chr6.S_155668107 of axis tissue, encodes a cysteine proteinase inhibitor, suggesting its potential role in alleviating Hg toxicity by inhibiting cysteine. Haplotype analyses provided further insights, indicating that lines carrying hap3 exhibited the lowest mercury content compared to other haplotypes. In summary, our study significantly enhances the statistical power of GWAS, identifying additional genes related to mercury accumulation and metabolism. These findings offer valuable insights into unraveling the genetic basis of mercury content in maize and contribute to the development of maize varieties with low mercury accumulation.
Looking Drop-Dead Gorgeous or Throwing Yourself Towards Death:- The Pros and Cons of Cosmetic Surgery
Authors: Desai Dev , Malafi Maria Eleni
Published: January 2024

Cosmetic surgery is the subfield of plastic surgery that enhances appearance mainly for aesthetic reasons. Currently, cosmetic surgery interventions are highly considered appealing and popular all around the world. Several factors have contributed in this rapidly evolving field such as scientific and economic development, breaking down barriers and cultural norms, globalization, social media and mental disorders. Nowadays, the morality of cosmetic surgery is facing many dilemmas due to its benefits and drawbacks. It is proven that the advantages of cosmetic surgery include improved body confidence, mental health, and function. Additionally, aesthetic corrections can upscale the quality of life and create career opportunities for special targeted groups. Also, cosmetic surgery has a major impact in gender affirmation procedures. Although, herein we also describe the disadvantages of this widely developing field such as minor and major medical complications, potential postoperative risks and addiction in plastic surgeries associated with damaging economic issues. Lack in self-confidence, altered mental health status and ethical crisis consist another negative aspects of aesthetic surgery’s impact.
Genesis of the Dongtangzi Zn-Pb Deposit of the Fengxian-Taibai Ore Cluster in West Qinling, China: Constraints from Rb-Sr and Sm-Nd Geochronology, and In-Situ S-pb Isotopes
Authors: Hu Qiaoqing , Wang Yitian , Chen Shaocong , Wei Ran , Liu Xielu , Liu Junchen , Wang Ruiting , Gao Weihong , Wang Changan , Tang Minjie , Wu Wentang , Hu Qiaoqing
Published: January 2024

The Dongtangzi large Zn-Pb deposit is located in the southwest of the Fengxian-Taibai (abbr. Fengtai) ore cluster in the west Qinling orogen, whose origin has been controversial, positing diverse genesis mechanisms such as sedimentary-exhalative (SEDEX), sedimentary-reformed, and epigenetic hydrothermal type. In this work, based on detailed observation and systematic study on ore geology, the results of high-precision Rb-Sr isotopic dating on sulfides of the main orebody and Sm–Nd isotopic dating on associated carbonates have been carried out, which yield isochron ages of 211.6 ± 2.6 Ma and 211 ± 4 Ma, respectively. In-situ S-Pb isotopic studies show that the ore related sulfides display a narrow range of δ34S values from 1.1 ‰ to 10.2 ‰, with 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb and 208Pb/204Pb ratios of 18.07 to 18.27, 15.64 to 15.66, and 38.22 to 38.76, respectively. While the pyrite of sedimentary period and the granite porphyry dike have δ34S values vary from 15.8 to 21.4‰, and from 2.1 to 4.3‰ (with 206Pb/204Pb ratios of 18.09 to 18.10, 207Pb/204Pb ratios of 15.59 to 15.61, and 208Pb/204Pb ratios of 38.17 to 38.24) respectively. Combining the regional geology, we propose that the Dongtangzi Zn-Pb deposit is the product of multi-stage epigenetic hydrothermal fluid processes, driven by late Triassic regional tectono-magmatic activities in regional extensional regime, with metallic materials originate from a mixture of Triassic magmatic processes and metamorphic basement.
Changes in Functional Groups and Crystal Structure of Coal Tar Pitch with Respect to Carbonization Temperature
Authors: Lee Sang-Hye , Roh Jae-Seung
Published: January 2024

In this study, changes in the microstructure of coal tar pitch during successive processes, including pyrolysis, polycondensation, and crystallization, were examined in connection with the resulting variations in structure factors, as measured by XRD analysis, and functional groups, as confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. To this end, four zones were defined based on variations in crystallinity, which were indicated by d002 and Lc. Each zone was further characterized by interpreting crystallinity development in relation to changes in functional groups and specimen height. At around 400 °C, polycondensation occurred as the C-Har and C-Hal peaks decreased in intensity. These peak reductions coincided with the formation of mesophase spheres, resulting in enhanced crystallinity. Subsequently, at around 500 °C, the peak intensity of C-H and COOH decreased, which was attributed to the release of large amounts of gasses. This led to sharp volume changes and a temporary reduction in crystallinity. All these results suggest that changes in the functional groups of coal tar pitch at lower temperatures (600 °C or less) during the carbonization process are closely associated with variations in its crystallinity. The major findings of the present study provide valuable insights for designing highly effective processes in the manufacturing of synthetic graphite blocks using CTP as a binder material, including by selecting appropriate temperature ranges to minimize volume expansion and crystallinity degradation and determining the lowest possible carbonization temperature to ensure adequate binder strength.
Blended Calcium Sulfoaluminate Cements Based on Thermally Treated Reservoir Sediments
Authors: Telesca Antonio , Marroccoli Milena
Published: January 2024

In 2021 the total world cement production was estimated at 4.1 billion tonnes and the annual CO2 emissions from cement plants reached almost 2.8 billion metric tonnes. In the last years many ef-forts have been made for manufacturing low-CO2 cements. In this regard, a great attention has been paid towards calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cements for both their peculiar technical prop-erties and the environmentally friendly features mainly related to their manufacturing process. Moreover, the use of blended cements composed by CSA binders and supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) could represents a powerful tool for both reducing the CO2 footprint and pro-ducing more durable environmentally friendly materials. In this paper, the possibility of using reservoir sediments (RS), calcined at 830°C, as SCMs in blended-CSA cements was investigated. Four binders were submitted to hydration and physico-mechanical tests for curing periods com-prised in the interval 4 hours-56 days. X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction and differential thermal–thermogravimetric analyses were employed as main characterization techniques. It was found that thermally treated RS are very interesting inasmuch as their utilization allows a CSA clinker dilution, thus implying both a decrease of CO2 emissions and a reduction of costs related to CSA cement production.
Effect of Treatment with Selected Plant Extracts on the Physiological and Biochemical Parameters of Rice Plants under Drought and Salt Stress
Authors: Park Hyun Hwa , Win Pyae Pyae , Kuk Yong-In
Published: January 2024

Stresses due to drought and high soil salt content are the most severe threats to global rice pro-duction, causing a significant decline in rice yield. Therefore, this study examined the effects of treatment with various plant extracts on the stresses on rice plants associated with drought and high salinity. Additionally, this study examined various physiological and biochemical parameters such as growth, photosynthetic activity, chlorophyll content, and lipid peroxidation in rice plants after treatment with selected plant extracts under drought and salt stress conditions. Out of the eleven extracts tested, four extracts, namely soybean leaf, soybean stem, Chinese chive, and onion extracts, were found to effectively reduce drought stress. A reduction of only 24-37% in shoot fresh weight was observed in rice plants under drought stress that were treated with these ex-tracts compared to the 78% reduction observed in control plants. In addition, rice plants under salt stress which were treated with soybean leaf, soybean stem, moringa (Moringa oleifera), and Undaria pinnatifida extracts were observed to have lower reductions in shoot fresh weight (3-23%) com-pared to the control plants (43%). The effectiveness varied with the concentrations of the plant ex-tracts. Water content was higher in the rice plants treated with extracts than in the control plants after 6 days of drought and salt stress, but not after 4 days of drought and salt stress. Although photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) and electron transport rate (ETR), and the content of pigments (chlorophyll and carotenoid) varied based on the types and levels of stress and the extracts that the rice plants were treated with, generally photosynthetic efficiency and pigment contents were higher in the treated rice compared to control plants than in the control plants. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as the superoxide radical, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased as the duration of the period of stress increased. ROS and MDA levels were lower in the treated rice compared to control plants. Proline and soluble sugar accumulation also increased as the duration of the stressperiod increased. However, proline and soluble sugar ac-cumulation were lower in the treated rice compared to control plants. Generally, all the parame-ters investigated in this study were similar regardless of the plant extract used for treating the rice plants. Thus, extracts found to be effective in this study can be used to alleviate the adverse effects of stress on rice crops associated with drought and high salinity soil.
The Use of Egg and Egg Compounds in Companion Animal Health
Authors: Beasley Shea , Hiidenhovi Jaakko
Published: January 2024

Avian egg is a bioavailable and a palatable source of protein, fatty acids and vitamins. Egg being a bird embryo, it is adapted as an important part of a high quality carnivore and scavenger diet through evolution. The biological value of egg protein is near to 100 % with the ten essential amino acids, excluding taurine, required by cats and dogs. Functions of over 400 bioactive proteins are growingly recognized in targeting to support pet health. Egg shell membrane contains several of these biomolecules and has shown effect on joint and skin health, anti-inflammatory and antimi-crobial effect in adaptive immunity as well as in gastrointestinal disorders, such as metabolic diseases and obesity. The lipid composition of eggs is unique for an animal product with two-thirds of un-saturated fatty acids consisting of linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and do-cosahexaenoic acid. Eggs are also a diverse source of vitamins providing both water and fat soluble vitamins, especially choline. The nutritional value of an egg assists in maintaining health and shows potential supporting the mobility, cognitive and gastrointestinal health as well as skin repair.
Treatment of Initially Unresectable Local Advanced Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma with Folfirinox: A Prospective Study YCOG1403 (C-flap Study)
Authors: Kobayashi Noritoshi , Yabushita Yasuhiro , Mori Ryutaro , Takahashi Tomoaki , Miyake Kentaro , Sawada Yu , Homma Yuki , Matsuyama Ryusei , Okubo Naoki , Katsuta Eriko , Kubota Kensuke , Yamanaka Shoji , Ichikawa Yasushi , Endo Itaru
Published: January 2024

Background: A challenge in locally advanced, unresectable pancreatic cancer treatment is to achieve both survival benefits and a safe margin-negative resection. There is no robust evidence regarding the treatment of patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer. Methods: We conducted a prospective, single-arm, phase II trial in patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer using the FOLFIRINOX regimen. After completing 4–8 cycles, patients underwent surgical resection when feasible. The primary endpoint was the R0 resection rate. Results: Fifteen patients were enrolled in this study. A median of six courses of FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy was administered, and a partial response or R0 resection was achieved in 26.7% or 33% of the patients, respectively. Severe adverse events due to chemotherapy and major surgical complications were observed in 33.3% and 6.7% of patients, respectively. The median overall survival rate of patients who underwent R0 resection or with R1 or unresectable disease was 47.8 months (95% CI, 22.5–73.1) or 14.5 months (95% CI, 11.8–17.2), respectively (P=0.031). Conclusions: FOLFIRINOX treatment resulted in a relatively high rate of R0 resection and prolonged survival. Therefore, FOLFIRINOX is an effective, feasible, and well-tolerated treatment for locally advanced, initially unresectable pancreatic cancer and might be a suitable treatment to achieve survival benefits and R0 resection.
Theoretical Foundations for Creating Fast Algorithms Based on Constructive Methods of Universality
Authors: Durmagambetov Asset
Published: January 2024

The core motivation for this study emanates from Voronin S.'s seminal work on the universality of the zeta function. This universality positions the zeta function as a pivotal element in the conceptual framework of global artificial intelligence, suggesting its potential as a foundational component. A critical barrier to harnessing this promising universality has been the absence of efficient algorithms capable of actualizing this concept.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in Children and Adolescents. A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Interventions
Authors: Gkintoni Evgenia , Kourkoutas Elias , Prinianaki Dimitra , Yotsidi Vasiliki , Stavrou Pilios Dimitris
Published: January 2024

Background: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health concern among traumatized children and adolescents. The specific objective is to describe post-traumatic stress disorder in children (6 to 12 years old) and adolescents (12 to 18 years old). This comprehensive review compiles the clinical interventions targeting PTSD in this age group and systematizes the empirical evidence about their efficacy. Methods: The PRISMA method was used to present and evaluate the clinical interventions implemented for PTSD. Results: Significant symptoms of PTSD include avoidance, overstimulation, and flashbacks, typically accompanied by a depressed mood and anxiety. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Systemic Therapy, Play Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Relaxation Techniques, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy are essential interventions for the treatment of patients between the ages of 6 and 18. CBT, particularly Trauma-focused CBT, is the most effective and extensively used therapy for dealing with cases of juvenile PTSD, according to the findings of the vast majority of previous research. Conclusions: The present systematic review summarizes the findings of several studies on psychotherapeutic interventions for PTSD in children and adolescents. PTSD in this population differs from PTSD in adults, necessitating various age-appropriate approaches and therapeutic models.
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Carrot Extracts Treated by High Temperature and Pressure
Authors: Jung Yun Jo , Jo Yeon Jae , Kim Tae Myoung , Kim Yun-Bae , Lee Junsoo , Jeong Heon Sang
Published: January 2024

This study evaluated the effects of high-temperature and high-pressure treatment on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of carrot extracts. The total polyphenol and flavonoid content of heated carrot extract increased as the heating temperature increased, with 403.93 mg GAE/100 g and 53.14 mg CE/100 g at 150°C. DPPH and ABTs radical scavenging activity (IC50) of heated carrot extract also increased as the heating temperature increased, with 4.65 mg/mL and 7.31 mg/mL, respectively, at 150°C. The reducing power increased with the heating temperature. Heated carrot extract did not exhibit any temperature- or concentration-dependent cytotoxicity. Nitric oxide (NO) generation was suppressed as the heating temperature and NO production increased. The heated carrot extract showed a decrease in the production of dose-dependent TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 compared to the control group. The above results show that heated carrot extract had effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.