bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Mediating Role of Rumination in the Relation between Basic Psychological Need Frustration and Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Heissel Andreas , Pietrek Anou , Kangas Maria , Van der Kaap-Deeder Jolene , Rapp Michael A.
Published: January 2023

Research within the framework of Basic Psychological Need Theory (BPNT) finds strong associations between basic need frustration and depressive symptoms. This study examined the role of rumination as an underlying mechanism in the association between basic psychological need frustration and depressive symptoms. A cross-sectional sample of N = 221 adults (55.2% female, mean age = 27.95, range = 18–62, SD = 10.51) completed measures assessing their level of basic psychological need frustration, rumination, and depressive symptoms. Correlational analyses and multiple mediation models were conducted. Brooding partially mediated the relation between need frustration and depressive symptoms. BPNT and Response Styles Theory are compatible and can further advance knowledge about depression vulnerabilities.
A Longitudinal Follow-Up Study of Intellectual Function in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy over Age: Is It Really Stable?
Authors: Chieffo Daniela P. R. , Moriconi Federica , Pane Marika , Lucibello Simona , Ferraroli Elisabetta , Norcia Giulia , Ricci Martina , Capasso Anna , Cicala Gianpaolo , Buchignani Bianca , Coratti Giorgia , Cutrona Costanza , Pelizzari Monia , Brogna Claudia , Hendriksen Jos G. M. , Muntoni Francesco , Mercuri Eugenio
Published: January 2023

The aim of the study was to retrospectively evaluate the consistency of longitudinal findings on intellectual functioning in DMD boys and their relationship to behavioral and neuropsychiatric difficulties. The cohort included 70 patients of age 3 to 17 years with at least two assessments using the Wechsler scales. CBCL and clinical observation of behavior were also performed. Changes in total intelligence quotient were interpreted as stable or not stable using the reliable-change method. On the first assessment 43/70 had normal quotients, 18 borderline, 5 mild, and 4 moderate intellectual disability, while 27/70 had no behavioral disorders, 17 had abnormal CBCL, and 26 patients had clear signs of attention deficits despite normal CBCL. The remaining seven were untestable. The mean total intelligence quotient change in the cohort was −2.99 points (SD: 12.29). Stable results on TIQ were found in 63% of the paired assessments. A third of the consecutive cognitive assessments showed a difference of more than 11 points with changes up to 42 points. Boys with no behavioral/attention disorder had smaller changes than those with attention (p = 0.007) and behavioral disorders (p = 0.002). Changes in IQ may occur in Duchenne and are likely to be associated with behavioral or attention deficits.
The Impact of Robotic Fractionated Radiotherapy for Benign Tumors of Parasellar Region on the Eye Structure and Function
Authors: Orski Michal , Tarnawski Rafal , Wylęgała Edward , Tarnawska Dorota
Published: January 2023

Purpose: To evaluate the radiation effect of fractionated robotic radiotherapy of benign tumors located in the parasellar region on the anterior and posterior segments of the eye. Methods: A prospective observational study based on the expanded ophthalmological examination. The pre-treatment baseline was used as a control for the post-radiotherapy follow-up examinations. The study group consists of 34 patients (68 eyes) irradiated using the CyberKnife system. There were ten patients with cavernous sinus meningioma, nine with pituitary adenoma, five with meningioma of the anterior and middle cranial fossa, five with meningioma in the region close to optic chiasm, three with craniopharyngioma, and two with meningioma of the orbit. All patients were treated using three fractions of 600–800 cGy. We assessed the impact of radiation on the eye based on changes in anatomical and functional features. The condition of the eye surface, central corneal thickness (CCT), endothelial cell density (ECD), lens densitometry, central macular thickness (CMT), and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) were the anatomical features assessed. The functional tests were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), visual field (VF) and visual-evoked potentials (VEP). An ophthalmologic examination was performed before and 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after radiotherapy. Results: We did not observe any significant changes in BCVA, IOP, CCT, CMT, VF, and VEP, nor in the slit-lamp examination during the two-years observation. We found a significant decrease in ECD at all follow-up measurements. The drop in ECD exceeded approximated age-related physiological loss. The reduction in ECD was not large enough to disrupt corneal function and thus affect vision. We also observed a statistically significant reduction of RNFL in all observation time points. However, there was no correlation between the dose delivered to the optic pathway and the decrease in RNFL thickness. The thinning of the RNFL was not significant enough to impair visual function. Conclusion: Fractionated robotic radiotherapy of the tumors located close to the optical pathway is safe and does not impair patient’s vision. Minor changes found in optic nerve anatomy (RNFL thinning) might be related to radiation effect or tumor compression. The causal relation between low doses of radiation delivered to the cornea and the observed significant but slight decrease in ECD is uncertain. The observed changes did not cause visual disturbances perceivable by the patients.
Community Integration and Associated Factors 10 Years after Moderate-to-Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Lu Juan , Rasmussen Mari S. , Sigurdardottir Solrun , Forslund Marit V. , Howe Emilie I. , Fure Silje C. R. , Løvstad Marianne , Overeem Reagan , Røe Cecilie , Andelic Nada
Published: January 2023

This study evaluated the impact of baseline injury characteristics and one-year functional level on the 10-year community integration outcomes for working-age patients with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Patients aged 16–55 and diagnosed with moderate-to-severe TBI within 24 h of injury were eligible for the study. Multivariable hierarchical linear regression was utilized to assess the impact of baseline characteristics and one-year functional measures on the mean Community Integration Questionnaire (CIQ) scores 10 years after injury. Of 133 original study participants, 97 survived 10 years, and 75 were available for this study. The mean total CIQ score changed positively from one to 10 years post-injury, from 18.7 (±5.5) to 19.8 (±4.8) (p = 0.04). The results suggested that age (β = −0.260, p = 0.013), FIM-Cognitive subscale (β = 0.608, p = 0.002), and the bodily pain subscale (BP) (β = 0.277, p = 0.017) of the SF-36 were significantly associated with the mean CIQ scores. In conclusion, this study demonstrated improved community integration from one to 10 years in a sample of working-age patients with moderate-to-severe TBI. The findings also showed that age, cognitive function, and bodily pain were significant predictors of long-term community integration, suggesting post-acute rehabilitation should focus on factors related to long-term risk and protective factors to improve long-term outcomes.
Changes in Anterior Chamber Angle and Choroidal Thickness in Patients with Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma after Phaco-Goniosynechialysis
Authors: Luo Surong , Yuan Guomei , Zhao Chenwei , Shen Jiang , Zhang Li , Luo Man , Chen Wei
Published: January 2023

We aimed to observe changes in angle width and choroidal thickness (CT) before and after phacoemulsification intraocular lens implantation (PEI) combined with goniosynechialysis (GSL) in patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) complicated by cataracts. This prospective cohort study included 60 patients with PACG complicated by cataracts from the Department of Ophthalmology of Shaoxing People’s Hospital, China. Patients underwent PEI combined with GSL (PEI-GSL group) or laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) followed by PEI (PEI group). Intraocular pressure (IOP) and endothelial counts were significantly decreased in both groups after surgery, while best-corrected visual acuity and central anterior chamber depth were significantly increased. However, there were no significant differences between the two groups. The opening degrees of room corners at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock were recorded as AA12, AA3, AA6, and AA9, respectively. Anterior chamber depth was significantly increased postoperatively compared to preoperatively in both groups, with no significant between-group differences (all ps > 0.05). At 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively, the width at AA12, AA3, and AA9 points was higher in the PEI-GSL group than in the PEI group (all ps < 0.05). Significant between-group differences at AA6 were observed preoperatively (p = 0.023) and at 1 (p = 0.027) and 3 (p = 0.033) months postoperatively but not at 6 months postoperatively (p = 0.055). CT was smaller postoperatively than preoperatively (all ps < 0.001). The present study suggests that patients with PACG who underwent PEI with or without GSL had reduced IOP and CT after surgery.
Diets Differently Regulate Tumorigenesis in Young E0771 Syngeneic Breast Cancer Mouse Model
Authors: Thangavel Hariprasad , Lizardo Kezia , Dhanyalayam Dhanya , De Assis Sonia , Nagajyothi Jyothi F.
Published: January 2023

Breast cancer (BC) is the most diagnosed cancer type, accounting for one in eight cancer diagnoses worldwide. Epidemiological studies have shown that obesity is associated with increased risk of BC in post-menopausal women, whereas adiposity reduces the risk of BC in premenopausal women. The mechanistic link between obesity and BC has been examined by combining murine BC models with high-fat diet (HFD) induced obesity. However, the effect of adiposity (not obesity) induced by a short period of HFD consumption on BC pathogenesis is not well understood. In the current study, we examined the effects of different diet compositions on BC pathogenesis using a young E0771 syngeneic BC mouse model fed on either an HFD or regular diet (RD: a low-fat high-carbohydrate diet) for a short period (4 weeks) before implanting mammary tumors in mice. We analyzed the effect of diet composition on the onset of tumor growth, metastasis, and metabolic and immune status in the tumor microenvironment (TME) using various methods including in vivo bioluminescence imaging and immunoblotting analyses. We showed for the first time that a short-term HFD delays the onset of tumorigenesis by altering the immune and metabolic signaling and energy mechanism in the TME. However, RD may increase the risk of tumorigenesis and metastasis by increasing pro-inflammatory factors in the TME in young mice. Our data suggest that diet composition, adipogenesis, and loss of body fat likely regulate the pathogenesis of BC in a manner that differs between young and post-menopausal subjects.
Full Skin Equivalent Models for Simulation of Burn Wound Healing, Exploring Skin Regeneration and Cytokine Response
Authors: Mulder Patrick P. G. , Raktoe Rajiv S. , Vlig Marcel , Elgersma Anouk , Middelkoop Esther , Boekema Bouke K. H. L.
Published: January 2023

Healing of burn injury is a complex process that often leads to the development of functional and aesthetic complications. To study skin regeneration in more detail, organotypic skin models, such as full skin equivalents (FSEs) generated from dermal matrices, can be used. Here, FSEs were generated using de-epidermalized dermis (DED) and collagen matrices MatriDerm® and Mucomaix®. Our aim was to validate the MatriDerm- and Mucomaix-based FSEs for the use as in vitro models of wound healing. Therefore, we first characterized the FSEs in terms of skin development and cell proliferation. Proper dermal and epidermal morphogenesis was established in all FSEs and was comparable to ex vivo human skin models. Extension of culture time improved the organization of the epidermal layers and the basement membrane in MatriDerm-based FSE but resulted in rapid degradation of the Mucomaix-based FSE. After applying a standardized burn injury to the models, re-epithelization occurred in the DED- and MatriDerm-based FSEs at 2 weeks after injury, similar to ex vivo human skin. High levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were present in the culture media of all models, but no significant differences were observed between models. We anticipate that these animal-free in vitro models can facilitate research on skin regeneration and can be used to test therapeutic interventions in a preclinical setting to improve wound healing.
An Experimental and Numerical Study on Aluminum Alloy Tailor Heat Treated Blanks
Authors: Pereira Rui , Peixinho Nuno , Carneiro Vítor , Soares Delfim , Cortez Sara , Costa Sérgio L. , Blanco Vítor
Published: January 2023

Information is presented on the conceptualization, experimental study, and numerical process simulation of tailor heat treated aluminum alloy blanks. This concept is intended to improve the forming behavior of aluminum parts in challenging conditions. The implementation requires precise control of laser heat treatment parameters within a suitable industrial framework. The study details material properties, heat treatment parameters, and experimental results for the strength and elongation properties of an AA6063-T6 aluminum alloy. Constitutive modeling is applied using the Hocket–Sherby equation, which allowed us to establish a correlation between laser heat treatment maximum temperature and the corresponding material softening degree. Based on the generated flow stress–strain curves, a numerical simulation of a representative case study was performed with Abaqus finite element software highlighting potential improvements of tailor heat treated blanks (THTB). The influence and effectiveness of heat-affected zone (HAZ) dimensions and material softening were analyzed.
Modeling and Analysis of Offshore Gangway under Dynamic Load
Authors: Qiu Jianchao , Qiu Weihan , Niu Anqi , Han Guangdong , Wang Shenghai , Sun Yuqing
Published: January 2023

The safety transfer on the sea is threatened by wind, wave and surge loads. An offshore gangway ensures smooth and safe transfer by compensating the ship’s motion. In a mixed offshore gangway system, the transfer gangway is a huge asymmetric load on top of the stable platform, and the displacement of its center of gravity causes it to exert a large dynamic load on the stable platform. A dynamic model of the offshore gangway under dynamic load is established in this work. The Lagrange equation is used to establish the dynamic model of the transfer gangway; the equivalent center of gravity method is used to visualize its dynamic load. The dynamic of the stable platform is modeled by the virtual work principle. Finally, the accuracy of the mathematical model was verified by the joint simulation. Simulation results indicate that under the influence of dynamic load, the tractive force of the second drive support chain is 2–3 times greater than the tractive force of the first and third drive support chains. With the same excitation, the tractive force of the second drive support chain is 2.83 times higher than that under the static load.
Dynamic Modeling and Motion Control Strategy of Cable-Driven Cleaning Robot for Ship Cargo Hold
Authors: Han Guangdong , Li Jian , Chen Yizong , Wang Shenghai , Chen Haiquan
Published: January 2023

Ship cargo-hold cleaning is a low-efficiency and high-risk operation in marine industry, which is generally carried out manually, putting the workers in danger. To improve the efficiency and safety of ship cargo-hold cleaning, a C-DCR is proposed in this article. Most research on the dynamics and control of CDPRs has focused on the scenarios with fixed bases; however, the effect of moving-base excitation on the end-effector is largely ignored. In this article, the dynamic model is established based on Lagrange method considering the ship motion and external disturbance, in which the motor model is considered. On this basis, for the high-speed maneuverability of the C-DCR, a modified PD feedforward tracking controller was proposed. Furthermore, the stability of the controller was proved with the Lyapunov Stability Theory. To keep the cable in tension at all times, the tensions are optimized based on the minimum 2-norm method. The simulation results show that the error mean of position is 0.22 m and the angular error mean is 2.8° under ship motion and external disturbance, indicating that the C-DCR has stable, smooth and bounded tracking performance, which will ensure the accuracy of the cleaning operation.
Value Chain for Non-Indigenous Bivalves in Greece: A Preliminary Survey for the Pearl Oyster Pinctada imbricata radiata
Authors: Theodorou John A. , Minasidis Vasileios , Ziou Athina , Douligeri Alexandra S. , Gkikas Marios , Koutante Evangelia , Katselis George , Anagnopoulos Orestis , Bourdaniotis Nikos , Moutopoulos Dimitrios K.
Published: January 2023

The present study investigates through an integrated survey, for the first time in Greek shellfish market, the marketing distribution towards a new edible shellfish product that of the non-indigenous pearl oyster Pinctada imbricata radiata. The survey conducted through personal interviews on sector entrepreneurs/staff of the supply (i.e., shellfish producers, wholesalers, fishmongers, owners of restaurants). Internet-based quantitative research was also conducted to explore the market supply of the pearl oyster covering all nine regional units of Greece. The market for pearl oyster seems to be there as a substitute of the major commercial species in seasons of shortages. There is a specimen mislabeling throughout Greece, thus, extraction of significant information about the market supply of pearl oyster is deficient. Further knowledge on the bivalve shellfish value chain is needed, to define how the wild and the farmed species (mussels) interact in the market and in the distribution channels, toward a product-easy to use in the supply chain and friendly to the consumer. Findings also raises additional concerns as a priority for conservation, and the current practices do not satisfy the Common Fisheries Policy in terms of traceability.
A Comparative Study of Lactarius Mushrooms: Chemical Characterization, Antibacterial, Antibiofilm, Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Kostić Marina , Ivanov Marija , Fernandes Ângela , Calhelha Ricardo C. , Glamočlija Jasmina , Barros Lillian , Soković Marina , Ćirić Ana
Published: January 2023

Mushrooms are valued worldwide for their nutritional, organoleptic and chemical properties. The aim of this study was to determine the chemical composition (free sugars, organic acids, fatty acids, tocopherols and phenolic compounds) and bioactivity of three wild mushrooms (Lactarius piperatus, Lactarius quietus and Lactarius vellereus) from Serbia. Chemical analysis was performed with HPLC-RI and UFLC-PDA (for hydrophilic compounds) and with GC-FID and HPLC-FP (for lipophilic compounds). The analysis of phenolic compounds was performed by UFLC-DAD. Biological activities were evaluated using three different assays (microdilution, TBARS and SRB assays). The results showed that the fruiting bodies were rich in mannitol and trehalose. The main organic acids were oxalic acid and citric acid. As for lipophilic components, stearic, oleic and linoleic acids and β-tocopherol dominated in all the species studied. In addition, the methanolic and ethanolic extracts obtained showed antibacterial, antibiofilm and antioxidant properties. As for cytotoxicity, the extracts were not toxic or only moderately toxic toward different tumor cell lines. According to the results, the selected Serbian mushrooms are a rich source of bioactive compounds, and due to their good biological potential, they can be further exploited as functional ingredients beneficial to human health (antimicrobial agents, antioxidants).
Assessment of the Antimalarial Treatment Failure in Ebonyi State, Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Egwu Chinedu Ogbonnia , Aloke Chinyere , Chukwu Jennifer , Nwankwo Joshua Chidiebere , Irem Chinemerem , Nwagu Kingsley E. , Nwite Felix , Agwu Anthony Ogbonnaya , Alum Esther , Offor Christian E. , Obasi Nwogo Ajuka
Published: January 2023

The fight against malaria is a continuum as the epidemic is not abating. For proper deployment of tools in the fight against malaria, an assessment of the situation is necessary. This work assessed the level of antimalarial drug treatment failure in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Both survey and in vitro analyses were adopted. The survey was used to obtain qualitative information from both the malaria subjects and the pharmacies where antimalarial drugs are sourced. The results from the survey were complemented by an in vitro assay of the level of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in the commonly used artemisinin combination in Nigeria; artemether/lumefantrine. Results from the survey revealed that artemisinin combination therapies (ACTs) remain the mainstay in the treatment of malaria, even though other non-artemisinin drugs are still used. It also revealed that many patients still self-medicate, although, this may not be connected to the treatment failure seen among some malaria subjects. The in vitro assay showed that ACT contains the right quantity of APIs. Further surveillance is, therefore, necessary to understand the real cause of treatment failure among malaria subjects in Nigeria.
Pediatric Emergency Department Management in Acute Poisoning—A 2-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Corlade-Andrei Mihaela , Nedelea Paul Lucian , Ionescu Theodora Daniela , Rosu Tamara Solange , Hauta Alexandra , Grigorasi Gabriela Raluca , Blaga Teofil , Sova Ivona , Popa Ovidiu Tudor , Cimpoesu Diana
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: Poisonings in children are common reasons for addressing ED and can potentially have serious complications. Our research aims to review risk factors leading to poisoning in children. (2) Methods: A retrospective review of all pediatric poisoning cases addressing the Children’s emergency department of St Mary Hospital over a two-year period was performed. (3) Results: We collected data on 797 children admitted for acute poisoning. The highest incidence identified was in the 12–18 and 1–3-year-old age groups. The distribution of voluntary versus unintentional poisonings was relatively balanced: 50.19% versus 47.43% (for some cases the type of intoxication remained unknown). Exposure to the toxic substance by ingestion was significant compared to the other routes, with an incidence of 87.1%. Acute poisoning happened at home in 70.4% of cases. A known risk factor before reaching the ED was present in 13.04%. (4) Conclusions: Our study showed a greater risk for acute poisoning in children between 1–3 years of age, and adolescents over 12 years. Identifying and documenting epidemiological aspects and other variables is important for establishing preventive measures and for therapeutic conduct. Adequate risk stratification and preventive measures involving closer supervision of minors or cognitive-behavioral programs can prevent voluntary intoxication.
The Internal Determinants of Gender Diversity and Its Non-Linear Impact on Firms’ Performance: Evidence from the Listed Companies in Palestine Exchange
Authors: Alfar Abdelrahman J. K. , Abuatwan Nariman , Elheddad Mohamed , Qaki Mohammad
Published: January 2023

This study mainly aims to test the impact of gender diversity on a firm’s performance. Namely, the non-linear and the quantile impact on the listed companies in Palestine Exchange during the period 2010 to 2020. The study also aims to determine the impact of a firm’s internal characteristics on gender diversity. The study uses instrument analysis, traditional panel models, and quantile regression to fulfil the aims. The results demonstrate the existence of a critical mass for the impact of gender diversity on firms’ performance and that mass is about 30% for the ROA and 41% for the EPS.
Does COVID-19 Affect the Accessibility of Outdoor Sports Venues? A Case Study in Nanchang, China
Authors: Huang Min , Gong Daohong , Lin Hui , Hu Bisong , Chen Jiehong , Xiao Changjiang , Luo Jin , Qi Shuhua , Altan Orhan
Published: January 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a great challenge to society, the economy, and population health. It has become a significant public health event and social problem. Exploring the impact of COVID-19 on the accessibility of outdoor sports venues is crucial for people’s health. Based on spatial theory, the quantitative and qualitative analyses of outdoor sports venues’ spatial distribution and accessibility were conducted, and the epidemic’s impact on them was analyzed. The results show that: (1) The existing outdoor sports venues in Nanchang show a distribution pattern of “sparse in the north and south, and strong aggregation in the middle”. (2) As a result of the epidemic, the center of the standard deviation ellipse in outdoor sports sites shifted to the southeast, while the number of open venues decreased by 68%. (3) Before COVID-19, the entire study area could achieve full coverage by driving for 17 min, riding for 70 min, or walking for 119 min. After COVID-19, the time increased to 29, 109, and 193 min, respectively. (4) Under the high-risk scenario of COVID-19, the average walking time for people to reach outdoor sports venues increased from 6.2 min to 14.0 min in the study area, with an increase of 126%. Finally, according to the findings of this study, recommendations were made on how government departments could build or re-open outdoor sports venues during and after this epidemic.
Fires of a House—Burning Events in a Middle Bronze Age Vatya House as Evidenced by Soil Micromorphological Analysis of Anthropogenic Sediments
Authors: Kovács Gabriella , Vicze Magdolna , Pető Ákos
Published: January 2023

The investigation of fires and burning within the archaeological record has a long history, and the applied methods are diverse. There have been several investigations of prehistoric archaeological sites, but Middle Bronze Age contexts (2000–1450 BC) of the Carpathian Basin have not been widely studied beyond studies of ritual burning or warfare. In this paper, we aimed to add further details to this topic in the household context via thin-section soil micromorphology and related phytolith and charred plant matter analysis. The combination of these techniques has been proven to be advantageous due to their high-resolution quality, but phytolith analysis of soil/sediment via thin sections (i.e., in fixed environment) has not been largely explored yet. In this study, these methods were used to investigate various burning events that affected a Middle Bronze Age Vatya house within the tell site of Százhalombatta-Földvár, Hungary. Three types of fire/burning events were investigated. One was related to hearth activity, another one to a presumed ‘cleaning’ of the house, and the last one to the termination of the building. In the first two cases, everyday life was under the microscope; the latter was more enigmatic, and probable intentional destruction was demonstrated.
Effect of Barometric Pressure Fluctuations on Gas Transport over Soil Surfaces
Authors: Jiang Junjie , Gu Kechen , Xu Jiahui , Li Yao , Le Yang , Hu Junguo
Published: January 2023

Molar diffusion mechanism is generally considered to be the main physical process of gas transport at the soil–atmosphere interface. However, the advection mechanism in porous medium can considerably affect soil gas transport. Barometric pressure fluctuations caused by pressure pumps is one of the main factors that affects the advection mechanism. Most of the existing studies are overly focused on the construction of complex mathematical models and cannot exclude other environmental factors from interfering. In the present study, a simple attenuation form of barometric fluctuations was explored as a “minimum unit” of pressure wave in laboratory. A pressure attenuation model (PAM) was developed to verify the relationship between pressure difference and gas emission from soil surface by measuring the change in pressure attenuation. The effect of pressure fluctuations on soil surface gas fluxes was then quantified based on the calculated fluxes. In addition, the relationship between the physical properties of the soil medium and the change in pressure was also analyzed. The results show that fluctuations in air pressure can cause a change in soil CO2 fluxes by an order of magnitude (change of 1 Pa can result in approximately 100% change in flux for sandy loam). The sensitivity of different soil medium to pressure differences was positively correlated with soil gas permeability, which is the main physical property of soil that influences the response of gas to pressure fluctuations. These results provide important prerequisites for quantifying more complex pressure fluctuations in a future study.
The Long-Term Hydraulic Efficiency of Green Infrastructure under Sea Level: Performance of Raingardens, Swales and Permeable Pavement in New Orleans
Authors: Boogaard Floris , Rooze Daan , Stuurman Roelof
Published: January 2023

Greater New Orleans is surrounded by wetlands, the Mississippi River and two lakes. Excess rain can only be drained off with pumping systems or by evaporation due to the bowl-like shape of a large part of the city. As part of the solution to make New Orleans climate adaptive, green infrastructure has been implemented that enable rainfall infiltration and evapotranspiration of stored water after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The long-term efficiency of infiltrating water under sea level with low permeable soils and high groundwater tables is often questioned. Therefore, research was conducted with the full-scale testing method measuring the infiltration capacity of 15 raingardens and 6 permeable pavements installed in the period 2011–2022. The results show a high variation of empty times for raingardens and swales: 0.7 to 54 m/d. The infiltration capacity decreased after saturation (ca 30% decrease in empty time after refilling storage volume) but all the tested green infrastructure met the guideline to be drained within 48 h. This is in contrast with the permeable pavement: only two of the six tested locations had an infiltration capacity higher than the guideline 10 inch/h (254 mm/h). The results are discussed with multiple stakeholders that participated in ClimateCafe New Orleans. Whether the results are considered unacceptable depends on a number of factors, including its intended purpose, site specific characteristics and most of all stakeholder expectations and perceptions. The designing, planning and scheduling of maintenance requirements for green infrastructure by stormwater managers can be carried out with more confidence so that green infrastructure will continue to perform satisfactorily over the intended design life and can mitigate the effects of heavy rainfall and droughts in the future.
Gender Agreement in L3 Spanish Production among Speakers of Typologically Different Languages
Authors: Tararova Olga , Black Martha , Wang Qiyao , Blong Katrina
Published: January 2023

Grammatical gender presents persistent difficulty for adult learners of Spanish in L2 acquisition; however, there is a literature gap in L3 acquisition of gender, specifically of typologically different languages. In this project, we investigate the acquisition of Spanish gender agreement by Russian (L1)/Mandarin (L1)-English (L2) speakers of Spanish (L3) and compare the findings with English(L1) speakers of Spanish (L2). Studying these languages is particularly interesting because some exhibit an explicit gender system (Spanish and Russian) while others do not (English and Mandarin). In order to examine the effect of L1/L2 influence of these languages on L3 Spanish acquisition, 55 participants completed two tasks: a picture identification task and a grammaticality judgement task. Results indicate that advanced learners of Spanish of all L1 backgrounds performed at or near ceiling. All beginner learners performed better with canonically marked masculine nouns than noncanonical feminine nouns, thus corroborating previous findings. Regarding L1 influence, Russian participants outperformed the other two groups, especially in Task 1 (Picture Identification), thereby indicating that they may be transferring to some degree the grammatical gender system of their L1. Overall, this research provides evidence that multiple factors, including structural typology and L3 proficiency level, play a role in L3 acquisition.
WHO Is Recommending against the Use of COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma in Immunocompromised Patients?
Authors: Franchini Massimo , Casadevall Arturo , Joyner Michael J. , Focosi Daniele
Published: January 2023

Since December 2019, SARS-CoV-2 is ravaging the globe, currently accounting for over 660 million infected people and more than 6 [...]
Knee Osteoarthritis—How Close Are We to Disease-Modifying Treatment: Emphasis on Metabolic Type Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Lambova Sevdalina Nikolova
Published: January 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a whole-joint disease that affects cartilage, bone, and synovium as well as ligaments, menisci, and muscles [...]
Development of a Nanotechnology Matrix-Based Citronella Oil Insect Repellent to Obtain a Prolonged Effect and Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy
Authors: Higuchi Celio Takashi , Sales Caroline Cianga , Andréo-Filho Newton , Martins Tereza Silva , Ferraz Helena Onishi , Santos Yasmin Rosa , Lopes Patricia Santos , Grice Jeffrey Ernest , Benson Heather Ann Elizabeth , Leite-Silva Vania Rodrigues
Published: January 2023

Mosquito-borne diseases affect millions of people worldwide each year, and the use of a topically applied insect repellent is an economically viable preventative health practice. The general objective of this work was to encapsulate citronella oil (CO) in a nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) to formulate a topical repellent with a long duration of efficacy on the skin and a good safety profile based on minimizing skin penetration. In the studied CO, the main chemical constituents of geraniol, citronellal, and citronellol were identified and subsequently used as markers for the in vitro skin permeation testing (IVPT). An optimal NLC encapsulating CO formulation was developed and had an average particle size of 350 nm. The NLC was then formulated in combination with CO at ratios of 2:1, 1:1, and 1:2 CO:NLC-CO as oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions and compared to CO in the same O/W emulsion base (all at 10% CO in the final O/W topical formulation). The markers geraniol, citronellol, and citronellal were detected in all samples tested F1 (10% CO in O/W emulsion) and F3 (10% CO/NLC-CO 1:1 in O/W emulsion). Even the percentages of F3 markers were higher than F1. The recovery of the percentage balance (based on the total remaining on the skin surface, on the skin, and penetrated through the skin to the receptor) of geraniol, citronellol, and citronellal markers for F1 and F3 was 7.70% and 11.96%; 25.51% and 31.89%; and 5.09% and 4.40%, respectively. The nanoparticle lipid solid forms a repellent reservoir on the skin surface, releasing the active ingredients slowly through volatilization, extending the repellent action, and reducing permeation through the skin. It is possible to assume that the remaining 92.30% and 88.03%; 74.49% and 68.11%; and 94.10% and 95.60% of geraniol, citronellol, and citronellal markers of F1 and F3, respectively, were lost to evaporation. In the in vivo efficacy test carried out with the Aedes aegypti mosquito, F3 was the optimal formulation, providing the greatest repellent action compared to free oil in O/W emulsion. Thermal analysis showed that the NLC-CO raised the boiling point of the encapsulated CO compared to the free oil, suggesting that the controlled release of the CO was a possible mechanism for its prolonged effect. We concluded that the nanocarriers developed with CO were stable and provided improved mosquito-repellent efficacy with minimal skin penetration of the CO actives over 24 h. Indeed, regardless of whether the CO was applied as free oil, a 1:1 mixture of CO (pure/free oil) or NLC-CO applied in an O/W emulsion can be considered safe for topical application due to minimal skin penetration.
Skin Lesion Analysis and Cancer Detection Based on Machine/Deep Learning Techniques: A Comprehensive Survey
Authors: Zafar Mehwish , Sharif Muhammad , Sharif Muhammad , Kadry Seifedine , Bukhari Syed , Rauf Hafiz
Published: January 2023

The skin is the human body’s largest organ and its cancer is considered among the most dangerous kinds of cancer. Various pathological variations in the human body can cause abnormal cell growth due to genetic disorders. These changes in human skin cells are very dangerous. Skin cancer slowly develops over further parts of the body and because of the high mortality rate of skin cancer, early diagnosis is essential. The visual checkup and the manual examination of the skin lesions are very tricky for the determination of skin cancer. Considering these concerns, numerous early recognition approaches have been proposed for skin cancer. With the fast progression in computer-aided diagnosis systems, a variety of deep learning, machine learning, and computer vision approaches were merged for the determination of medical samples and uncommon skin lesion samples. This research provides an extensive literature review of the methodologies, techniques, and approaches applied for the examination of skin lesions to date. This survey includes preprocessing, segmentation, feature extraction, selection, and classification approaches for skin cancer recognition. The results of these approaches are very impressive but still, some challenges occur in the analysis of skin lesions because of complex and rare features. Hence, the main objective is to examine the existing techniques utilized in the discovery of skin cancer by finding the obstacle that helps researchers contribute to future research.
The Misfortunes of a Genre: Prins by César Aira as an Allegory of the Gothic
Authors: García José Mariano
Published: January 2023

The gothic genre in Latin American literature has been the object of fashionable interest in recent decades and seems to absorb all the elements of the politically correct agenda; however, in the current trend of absolute presentism that seems regular in the critics, it is not taken into account that there exists a previous tradition more or less connected with its European sources but in search of its own cultural character. I would like to comment on some specifically gothic novels published in Argentina between the 1980s and the 1990s, as well as a recent one by the prolific writer César Aira. Prins can be analyzed as an ambiguous culmination of the gothic tendency, as well as a symptom of the disorientation of a genre that threatens to become a label as broad as it is empty.
The Impact of Digital Technologies and Sustainable Practices on Circular Supply Chain Management
Authors: Romagnoli Sara , Tarabu' Claudia , Maleki Vishkaei Behzad , De Giovanni Pietro
Published: January 2023

Background: This study investigates how firms can enhance the functionality of their circular supply chains (CSCs) by adopting a portfolio of sustainable practices as well as digital technologies to increase performance. It analyzes the benefits that firms can obtain when investing in specific technologies to boost the impact of technologies and sustainable practices on CSCs, and further increase performance. Methods: We test several hypotheses by using structural equation modeling as well as multi-group analysis to verify whether CSCs can be achieved through sustainable practices and technologies and improve the firms’ performance. Results: The empirical results partially support the research hypotheses. While the main research hypotheses are fully supported, the analysis of single digital technologies reveals that only a few solutions can contribute to both the management and the improvement of the CSC. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that the identification of green suppliers and ad hoc environmental regulations, combined with attention to the origin and provenance of raw materials, can promote a CSC. Moreover, transportation management systems (TMS) and the internet of things (IoT) are efficient technologies for managing transportation and product flow in the CSC. Furthermore, machine learning (ML) is effective in making positive green decisions, and 3D printing can extend product life.
A Simulation Approach for Waste Reduction in the Bread Supply Chain
Authors: Bhardwaj Arvind , Soni Rachit , Singh Lakhwinder Pal , Mor Rahul S
Published: January 2023

Background: Bread, a basic need for the survival of human beings, is highly perishable, has a short shelf-life, and loses its quality and potency after its date of expiry. This leads to a considerable amount of bread waste and loss in the economy. This study explores and analyses the most common causes of wastage in the bread supply chain and proposes key strategies for waste mitigation in bread-producing industries in the context of Indian bakeries. Methods: Based on a systematic literature review and pilot studies, Monte-Carlo simulation techniques were applied to conduct the analysis. Results: The results indicate that bread should be recalled from the market after three days rather than the usual six, and the strategy used by companies A and E (in this study) is recommended. Conclusions: These tactics ensure that any bread returned to the company is in great condition, giving us two to three days to transform the bread into some by-products. It will help managers, decision makers, and specialists create a successful waste-reduction strategy.
Depletion of Reflectance of Silicon Surface Textured Using Nano Second Fiber Laser
Authors: Oliver Nesa Raj S. , Prabhu Sethuramalingam
Published: January 2023

This paper characterizes the surface modification on silicon surfaces with different patterns (circle, pyramid) using a nanosecond fiber laser with different parameters, which enhances its anti-reflection property. The influence of textured and untextured silicon surfaces and their structural properties were evaluated. It has a long absorption path (200–1000 nm) and a rougher surface due to surface modifications, which results in a 40% decrease in incident light reflectance, especially in pyramid-shaped dimples with 70 µm size, helping to trap more light in solar cells where the anti-reflecting surface is a crucial need for devices used in optical and photovoltaic applications to operate more effectively. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) are used to examine the surface features to determine the process’s effectiveness and recognize the development of patterns that are deep enough to trap light. XRD and micro-Raman spectroscopy were used to examine the irradiated surface’s crystallographic structure and crystallinity change.
Hard Turning Performance Investigation of AISI D2 Steel under a Dual Nozzle MQL Environment
Authors: Mallick Rajashree , Kumar Ramanuj , Panda Amlana , Sahoo Ashok Kumar
Published: January 2023

In recent years, hard turning has emerged as a burgeoning cutting technology for producing high-quality finishing of cylindrical-shaped hardened steel for a variety of industrial applications. Hard turning under dry cutting was not accepted because of the generation of higher cutting temperatures which accelerated tool wear and produced an inferior surface finish. Nowadays, minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) is widely accepted in hard turning to reduce the problems encountered in dry cutting. This research aimed to augment the MQL performance in the hard turning process of AISI D2 steel by applying a novel concept, namely, a dual jet nozzle MQL system that supplies the cutting fluid into the cutting zone from two different directions. The performances of hard turning are discussed using machinability indicator parameters, such as surface roughness, tool wear, cutting temperature, power consumption, noise emission, and chip morphology. The dual nozzle MQL greatly reduced the friction between contact surfaces in the cutting zone and provided improved surface quality (Ra = 0.448 to 1.265 µm). Furthermore, tool flank wear was found to be lower, in the range of 0.041 to 0.112 mm, with abrasion and adhesion being observed to be the main mode of wear mechanisms. The power consumption was greatly influenced by the depth of cut (46.69%), followed by cutting speed (40.76%) and feed (9.70%). The chip shapes were found to be helical, ribbon, and spiral c type, while the colors were a metallic, light blue, deep blue, and light golden.
Correlations between Microstructure and Residual Stress of Nanoscale Depth Profiles for TSV-Cu/TiW/SiO2/Si Interfaces after Different Thermal Loading
Authors: Zhang Min , Chen Fangzhou , Qin Fei , Chen Si , Dai Yanwei
Published: January 2023

In this paper, the residual stresses with a nanoscale depth resolution at TSV-Cu/TiW/SiO2/Si interfaces under different thermal loadings are characterized using the ion-beam layer removal (ILR) method. Moreover, the correlations of residual stress, microstructure, and the failure modes of the interfaces are discussed. The residual stresses at the interfaces of TSV-Cu/TiW, TiW/SiO2, and SiO2/Si are in the form of small compressive stress at room temperature, then turn into high-tensile stress after thermal cycling or annealing. In addition, the maximum residual stress inside the TSV-Cu is 478.54 MPa at room temperature, then decreases to 216.75 MPa and 90.45 MPa, respectively, after thermal cycling and annealing. The microstructural analysis indicates that thermal cycling causes an increase in the dislocation density and a decrease in the grain diameter of TSV-Cu. Thus, residual stress accumulates constantly in the TSV-Cu/TiW interface, resulting in the cracking of the interface. Furthermore, annealing leads to the cracking of more interfaces, relieving the residual stress as well as increasing the grain diameter of TSV-Cu. Besides this, the applicability of the ILR method is verified by finite element modeling (FEM). The influence of the geometric errors of the micro-cantilever beam and the damage to the materials introduced by the focused ion beam (FIB) in the experimental results are discussed.
Fast-Setting Calcium Silicate-Based Pulp Capping Cements—Integrated Antibacterial, Irritation and Cytocompatibility Assessment
Authors: Kato Gabriel , Gomes Pedro Sousa , Neppelenbroek Karin Hermana , Rodrigues Cláudia , Fernandes Maria Helena , Grenho Liliana
Published: January 2023

Calcium silicate-based cements (CSCs) are endodontic materials widely used in vital pulp-capping approaches. Concerning the clinical application, the reduced set time and pre-mixed formulations are relevant characteristics during the operative management of pulpal exposure, aiming to optimise the work time and improve cross-infection/asepsis control. Additionally, clinical success seems to be greatly dependent on the biological performance of the materials that directly contact the living pulp. As such, this work approaches an integrative biological characterisation (i.e., antibacterial, irritation, and cytocompatibility assays) of three fast-setting CSCs—BiodentineTM, TotalFill® BC RRM™ Fast Putty, and Theracal LC®. These cements, after setting for 24 h, presented the expected topography and elemental composition (assessed by scanning electron microscopy, coupled with EDS analysis), in accordance with the information of the manufacturer. The set cements displayed a significant and similar antibiofilm activity against S. mutans, in a direct contact assay. Twenty-four-hour eluates were not irritant in the standardised CAM assay, but elicited distinct dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity profiles on fibroblastic cells—i.e., Biodentine was devoid of toxicity, TotalFill presented a slight dose-dependent initial toxicity that was easily overcome, and Theracal LC was deleterious at high concentrations. When compared to long-setting ProRoot MTA cement, which highlighted the pursued integrative approach, Biodentine presented a similar profile, but TotalFill and Theracal LC displayed a poorer performance regarding antibiofilm activity/cytocompatibility features, and Theracal LC suggested eventual safety concerns.