bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perirenal Fat CT Radiomics-Based Survival Model for Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: Integrating Texture Features with Clinical Predictors
Authors: Al Mopti Abdulrahman Nasser M , Alqahtani Abdulsalam Mohammed , Alshehri Ali H D , Li Chunhui , Nabi Ghulam
Published: September 2024

Background: Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) presents significant challenges in prognostication due to its rarity and complex anatomy. This study introduces a novel approach integrating perirenal fat (PRF) radiomics with clinical factors to enhance prognostic accuracy in UTUC.
Methods: The study retrospectively analysed 103 UTUC patients who underwent radical nephroureterectomy. PRF radiomics features were extracted from preoperative CT scans using a semi-automated segmentation method. Three prognostic models were developed: clinical, ra-diomics, and combined. Model performance was assessed using concordance index (C-index), time-dependent Area Under the Curve (AUC), and integrated Brier score.
Results: The combined model demonstrated superior performance (C-index: 0.784, 95% CI: 0.707-0.861) compared to the radiomics (0.759, 95% CI: 0.678-0.840) and clinical (0.653, 95% CI: 0.547-0.759) models. Time-dependent AUC analysis revealed the radiomics model's particular strength in short-term prognosis (12-month AUC: 0.9281), while the combined model excelled in long-term predictions (60-month AUC: 0.8403). Key PRF radiomics features showed stronger prognostic value than traditional clinical factors.
Conclusions: Integration of PRF radiomics with clinical data significantly improves prognostic accuracy in UTUC. This approach offers a more nuanced analysis of the tumour microenvironment, potentially capturing early signs of tumour invasion not visible through conventional imaging. The semi-automated PRF segmentation method presents advantages in reproducibility and ease of use, facilitating potential clinical implementation.
Framework for Integrating Large Language Models with a Ro-botic Health Attendant for Adaptive Task Execution in Patient Care
Authors: Kim Kyungki , Windle John , Christian Melissa , Windle Tom , Ryherd Erica , Huang Pei-Chi , Robinson Anthony , Chapman Reid
Published: September 2024

The development of intelligent medical service robots for patient care presents significant chal-lenges, particularly in integrating diverse knowledge sources and enabling robots to autono-mously perform tasks in dynamic and unpredictable healthcare environments. This study in-troduces a novel framework that combines large language models (LLMs) with healthcare-specific knowledge and robotic operations to enhance autonomous task execution for a Robotic Health Attendant (RHA). Utilizing OpenAI’s ChatGPT, the RHA processes structured information about patient care protocols and unstructured human inputs to generate context-aware robot actions. A prototype system was tested in a simulated patient room where the RHA successfully performed both simple individual actions and complex tasks involving the execution of multiple actions, based on real-time dialogues with the LLM and predefined task specifications. The results demonstrate the potential of LLMs to reduce the reliance on hardcoded logic and provide healthcare professionals with the ability to interact with robotic systems through natural lan-guage.
Fall Prevention and Related Factors Among Older Adults in Samutprakarn Province, Thailand
Authors: Chaiyabut Thawatchai , Yomai Korravarn , Taechaboonsermsak Pimsurang , Nanthamongkolchai Sutham
Published: September 2024

Fall are significant cause of mortality and disability among older adults globally, affecting individual health and society. Addressing preventable factors, such as physical health and environmental conditions, is essential. This cross-sectional study aims to understand the factors that influence fall prevention behaviors among older adults in semi-urban community.
Methods: A total of 440 older adults were randomly selected from six districts in Samutprakarn Province, Thailand. Well-trained data collectors conducted individual interviews with the participants in community-based setting.
Results: Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted, revealing that 96.3% of older adults demonstrated good fall prevention behaviors. The factors significantly associated with these behaviors included being female (OR = 4.39, 95% CI: 1.42-13.52), having good knowledge of fall prevention (OR = 9.19, 95% CI: 2.78-30.38), and perceiving the severity and susceptibility of falls, along with the benefits and barriers to prevention (OR = 11.25, 95% CI: 3.36-37.69). Additionally, sufficient access to health information (OR = 4.94, 95% CI: 1.61-15.16) and strong social support (OR = 4.06, 95% CI: 1.30-12.71) were also significant factors.
In conclusion, a high percentage of older adults practiced good fall prevention behaviors, influenced by factors such as gender, knowledge, perception of fall risks, access to health information, and social support. Policy makers should prioritize enhancing health education on fall prevention, improving access to health information, and strengthening social support systems for older adults to further reduce fall-related risks and disabilities.
Fragility Analysis of Buried Operating Steel Pipeline Under Longitudinal Permanent Ground Deformation
Authors: Banushi Gersena
Published: September 2024

Structural integrity of buried pipelines is threatened by the effects of Permanent Ground Deformation (PGD), resulting from seismic-induced landslides and lateral spreading due to liquefaction parallel to the pipeline axis, requiring accurate analysis of the system performance. Analytical fragility functions allow to estimate the likelihood of seismic damage along the pipeline, supporting design engineers and network operators in prioritizing resource allocation for mitigative or remedial measures in spatially distributed lifeline systems.
To efficiently and accurately evaluate the seismic fragility of buried operating steel pipeline under longitudinal PGD, this study develops an analytical model considering the asymmetric pipeline material behavior in tension and compression under varying operational loads. The validated model is further implemented within a fragility function calculation framework based on Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS), allowing to assess the probability of exceedance of the pipeline performance limit states conditioned to the intensity of PGD.
The evaluated fragility surfaces showed that the pipeline probability of exceeding the performance criteria increases for larger soil displacement and lengths, as well as cover depths, because of the greater mobilized soil reaction counteracting pipeline deformation. Additionally, the performed Global Sensitivity Analysis (GSA) highlighted the influence of the PGD and soil-pipeline interaction parameters, as well as the effect of the service loads on structural performance, requiring proper consideration in pipeline system modeling and design.
Finally, the proposed analytical fragility function calculation framework provides a useful methodology for effectively assessing the performance of operating pipelines under longitudinal PGD, quantifying the effect of the uncertain parameters impacting structural response.
Biomarkers: The Key To Enhancing Dbs Treatment For Psychiatric Conditions
Authors: Bazarra Castro Guillermo Jose , Casitas Vicente , Martinez-Macho Carlos , Madero Pohlen Alejandra , Alvarez-Sala Amelia , Barbero Pablos Enrique , Fernández Alén José , Torres Cristina V.
Published: September 2024

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is currently a promising technique for psychiatric patients with severe and treatment-resistant symptoms. However, the results to date have been quite heterogeneous, and the indications for psychosurgery with DBS remain in an experimental phase. One of the major challenges limiting the advancement of DBS in psychiatric disorders is the lack of objective criteria for diagnosing certain conditions, which are often based more on clinical scales rather than measurable biological markers. Additionally, there is a limited capacity to objectively assess treatment outcomes.
This overview examines the literature on the available biomarkers in psychosurgery in relation to DBS, as well as other relevant biomarkers in psychiatry with potential applicability for this treatment modality.
There are five types of biomarkers: clinical/behavioral, omic, neuroimaging, electrophysiological, and neurobiochemical. The information provided by each biomarker within these categories is highly variable and may be relevant for diagnosis, response prediction, target selection, program adjustment, etc.
A better understanding of biomarkers and their applications would allow DBS in psychosurgery to advance on a more objective basis, guided by the information provided by them and within the context of precision psychiatry.
Integrating Circular Supply Chains into Experiential Learning: Enhancing Learning Experiences in Higher Education
Authors: Salinas-Navarro David Ernesto , Palma-Mendoza Jaime Alberto , Vilalta-Perdomo Eliseo
Published: September 2024

This work aims to integrate the circular economy (CE) into learning experiences to enhance learning outcome development in Higher Education (HE). Building on existing active learning research, this work aligns CE initiatives—particularly waste reduction and elimination— with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study proposes an experiential learning framework to cultivate citizenship commitment, sustainability impact, and engineering learning outcomes through realistic problem-solving in the supply chains of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Using the ADDIE instructional design model and Kolb’s experiential learning cycle, the approach is illustrated in a case study within an undergraduate industrial engineering module. Based on student opinion surveys and achievement metrics, results indicate that the experience significantly enhanced student engagement and motivation. This research contributes to the broader dissem-ination of CE concepts in HE and supports the advancement of SDG #4 Quality Education and #12 Sustainable Consumption and Production. Future research will explore the application of this learning experience across diverse industries and assess its impact on student learning outcomes in various educational contexts.
Quantification of Soil Water Erosion Using the RUSLE Method in the Mékrou Watershed (Middle Niger River)
Authors: Abdourahamane Rachid Attoubounou , Diawara Hamidou , Ludwig Ralf , Adounkpe Julien
Published: September 2024

Despite nearly a century of research on water related issues, water erosion remains one of the greatest threats to soil health and soil ecosystem services around the world. Yet to date, data on water erosion needed to develop mitigation strategies is scarce, especially in the Sahelian regions. The current study therefore sets out to estimate annual soil losses caused by water erosion and to analyze trends over the period of 1981-2020 in the Mékrou watershed, located in the Middle Niger river sub-basin in West Africa. The revised universal soil loss equation, remote sensing and the Geographic Information System (GIS) were deployed in this study. Several types of data were used, including rainfall, soil conditions, topography and satellite images. The estimated average annual amount of water erosion in the Mékrou watershed is 6.49 t/ha/yr over 1981-2020. The dynamics of the ten-year average are highly variable, with a minimum of 3.45 t/ha/yr between 1981 and 1990, and a maximum of 8.50 t/ha/yr between 1991 and 2000. Even though these average soil losses in the Mékrou basin are below the tolerable threshold of 10 t/ha/yr, mitigation actions are needed for prevention. In addition, the spatial dynamics of water erosion are noticeably heterogeneous. The study reveals that 72.7% of the surface area of the Mékrou watershed is subject to slight water erosion below the threshold, compared with 27.3%, particularly in the mountainous south-western part, which is subject to intense erosion above the threshold.
Strategic Innovation in HRIS and AI for Enhancing Workforce Productivity in SMEs: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mohlala Tshepho T.N , Mehlwana Luyanda L.M , Nekhavhambe Uripfe P. , Thango Bonginkosi , Matshaka Lerato
Published: September 2024

This systematic review critically examines the adoption and integration of Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a focus on enhancing workforce productivity and strategic decision-making. Using the PRISMA framework, 100 research articles from reputable sources such as Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science were analyzed. The analysis reveals that HRIS adoption can improve employee productivity by 29%, decision-making by 20%, and operational efficiency by 26%, highlighting its transformative impact on SMEs. The review identifies major challenges, including high implementation costs, limited IT resources, and integration difficulties with AI and machine learning technologies. Despite these barriers, integrating AI into HRIS presents significant opportunities for SMEs, fostering innovation in talent management, compliance automation, and data-driven decision-making, thus creating a competitive edge in rapidly evolving markets. Actionable insights for practitioners emphasize the need for cost-effective, scalable HRIS solutions tailored to the unique operational needs of SMEs, while researchers are urged to further explore AI-driven HRIS advancements to address current gaps in workforce engagement and performance management. This review offers a comprehensive roadmap for future HRIS innovations and underscores the strategic importance of digital transformation in human resources for sustained SME competitiveness.
Influence of Riemann Space-time Curvature on the Laws of Electromagnetism
Authors: Kamberaj Hiqmet
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we focus on the influence of Riemann space-time curvature on the laws of electromagnetism, such as Gauss’s law, Maxwell-Amp´ere’s law, and Faraday’s law. Furthermore, we also introduce the work done on the unification of the gravitation and electromagnetic fields.
The Effect of an Interval Training Program on Aerobic and Anaerobic Indices of Adolescent Soccer Players
Authors: Kyranoudis Angelos E. , Beglis Athanasios , Michailidis Yiannis , Kyranoudis Efstratios , Vardakis Lazaros , Metaxas Thomas
Published: September 2024

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is widely used in team sports, particularly in soccer. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a short-term, progressive- load HIIT program on the performance of under-15 soccer players. The sample consisted of 30 adolescent soccer players, aged 14, who were randomly divided into two groups: the control group (CG, n=15) and the intervention group (EX, n=15), which performed additional HIIT sessions. The duration of the training program was six weeks, with progressive overload applied every two weeks. Performance indicators, including speed over 10 and 30 meters, change of direction (COD) to the right and left (505 right and left), maximal oxygen uptake (30-15IFT), and repeated sprint ability (RSA) (RSAtotal, RSAmean, RSAdecrement), were measured before and after the training program. Significant improvement were observed in the intervention group in COD (505 right and left), 30-15IFT, and RSAtotal and RSAmean (p=0.027, p=0.005, p=0, p=0.015, p=0.031, p=0.028, respectively). The findings of the present study suggest that a short-term, progressively overloaded HIIT program can enhance direction change ability, aerobic capacity, and repeated sprint performance.
Ramsey Approach to Dynamics: Ramsey Theory and Conservation Laws
Authors: Bormashenko Edward , Shvalb Nir
Published: September 2024

We propose the Ramsey approach for the analysis of behavior of isolated mechanical systems containing interacting particles. The total momentum of the system in the frame of the center of masses is zero. The mechanical system is described by the Ramsey, bi-colored, complete graph. Vectors of momenta of the particles pi serve as the vertices of the graph. We start from the graph representing the system in the frame of the center of masses, the momenta of the particles in this system are pcmi. If (pcmi(t)∙pcmj(t))≥0 is true, vectors of momenta of the particles are connected with the red link; if (pcmi(t)∙pcmj(t))<0 takes place, the vectors of momenta are connected with the green link. Thus, the complete, bi-colored graph emerges. Consider the isolated system built of six interacting particles. According to the Ramsey Theorem, the graph inevitably comprises at least one monochromatic triangle. The coloring procedure is invariant relatively to inertial frames; thus, the graph representing the system contains at least one monochromatic triangle in any of inertial frames. This gives rise to the novel kind of a mechanical invariant. Similar coloring is introduced for the angular momenta of the particles.
Molecules That Have Rarely Been Studied in Lymphatic Endothelial Cells
Authors: Becker Jürgen , Wilting Jörg
Published: September 2024

A number of standard molecules are used for the molecular and histological characterization of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) such as Lyve1, Podoplanin (D2-40), VEGFR3, Prox1 and CD31. The number of molecules whose mutations cause lymphatic malformations or primary congenital lymphedema is considerable, but the majority of these diseases have not yet been characterized at the molecular level. Therefore, there is still considerable scope for molecular and functional studies of the lymphatic vasculature. Using RNASeq, we have previously characterized LECs under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. We used this information to compare it with immunohistochemical data. We carried out some of the immunohistology ourselves, and systematically studied the Human Protein Atlas (https://www.proteinatlas.org/). Here we describe molecules that are expressed at RNA and protein levels in LECs, hoping to stimulate future functional studies of these molecules.
Identification of the First Case of Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma in Amphibians: Insights from Maculopaa medogensiss
Authors: Zhai Runliang , Qian Tianyu , Wang Yonghong , Wang Bin , Li Cheng , Xie Feng , Zhu Wei , Jiang Jianping
Published: September 2024

Dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) is a rare and aggressive type of cancer primarily reported in humans, with no documented cases in animals. In this study, we present the first case of DDLPS in a wild amphibian species, Maculopaa medogensis. The tumor was discovered during a routine examination and diagnosed through a combination of advanced diagnostic methods, including micro-CT imaging, gross anatomical inspection, histological analysis, and immunohistochemistry. The tumor exhibited both well-differentiated and dedifferentiated components, characteristic of DDLPS, with evidence of tissue invasion and multiple metastases. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed strong positive expression of markers such as S100A4, CDK4, MDM2, and CD34, while Leptin expression was negative, further confirming the diagnosis. This is the first reported case of DDLPS in a non-human species, expanding our understanding of cancer in wildlife and underscoring the significance of amphibians as environmental indicators. These findings provide valuable insights for veterinary medicine and wildlife conservation, particularly regarding the role of environmental stressors in cancer development. This study highlights the need for comprehensive diagnostic approaches in wildlife pathology.
Mathematical Modeling and Experimental Tests of Working Parameters of Piston-Radial Pumps in Hydraulic Systems of Mobile Machines
Authors: Petrović Radovan , Radosavljević Milan , Žeželj Boris , Belović Duško , Cvejić Stefan
Published: September 2024

Modern methods of designing and constructing hydraulic pumps can no longer be imagined without the use of appropriate mathematical models, phenomena and processes that take place in concrete constructions. A mathematical model of a process represents an analytical interpretation with certain assumptions. Obtaining a mathematical model requires detailed theoretical research, based on knowledge of the laws of fundamental sciences and scientific disciplines in order to fully understand and interpret the process, based on which assumptions are adopted and model equations are defined. As mobile machines continue to evolve, so do the demands on their hydraulic systems. Efficiency, automation and other major industry trends present ongoing development opportunities for hydraulic systems used in mobile applications. Hydraulic systems remain an important component in a range of mobile applications, from construction and agricultural equipment to heavy trucks because of the power density they can provide for a range of work functions. The power density of hydraulics remains unmatched in many applications. The pump, as an essential hydraulic component, converts mechanical energy into hydraulic energy with a relatively small amount and speed of fluid.
Neurotensin and Its Involvement in Female Hormone-Sensitive Cancers
Authors: Bertrand Ninon , Mougel Romane , Riley George , Bruand Marie , GAUCHOTTE Guillaume , Agopiantz Mikaël
Published: September 2024

Neurotensin (NT) is a peptide involved in digestion, neuromodulation, and cancer progression. NT and its receptors (NTR1 and SORT1 mainly) have been widely studied in oncology. Data show NT expression is under the control of sex steroid hormones, in particular estradiol. We focused on its involvement in three main female hormone-sensitive cancers: breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancer in a narrative review. NT, NTR1 and SORT1 are mostly expressed in these three cancers and their involvement in oncologic processes such as proliferation and invasion seems to match, as does their impact on prognosis for most. The development of NT receptor-targeted therapies, including theranostics and radioligand treatments, presents a promising avenue for personalized cancer treatment.
Exploring the Impact of IL-33 Gene Polymorphism (rs1929992) on Susceptibility to Chronic Urticaria and its Association with Serum Interleukin-33 levels
Authors: Dobrican-Băruța Carmen-Teodora , Deleanu Diana Mihaela , Iancu Mihaela , Muntean Ioana Adriana , Nedelea Irena , Bălan Radu-Gheorghe , Procopciuc Lucia Maria , Filip Gabriela Adriana
Published: September 2024

Chronic urticaria (CU) is a debilitating skin condition affecting up to 20% of the global popula-tion, characterized by erythematous, maculo-papular lesions and significant quality of life im-pairment. This study focused on the role of interleukin 33 (IL-33) and its polymorphisms, partic-ularly SNP rs1929992, in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Using demographic, clinical, and laboratory data from CU patients and controls, we aestimated allele and genotype frequencies, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium condition, and serum IL-33 levels, using unconditional binomial logistic regression for association analysis. Results revealed that CU patients had significantly higher frequencies of the minor allele of IL33 rs1929992 compared to controls (31.25% vs. 17.35%, p = 0.024), and carriers of the AG genotype exhibited increased odds of CU (adjusted OR = 2.208, p ≤ 0.001). Additionally, serum IL-33 levels were markedly elevated in CU patients, par-ticularly those with the GA genotype. The findings suggest that the IL-33 SNP rs1929992 is asso-ciated with an increased susceptibility to CSU, emphasizing its potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker. This study underscores the genetic and immunological underpinnings of CSU, paving the way for personalized treatment approaches.
Translational Proofs on Bee Pollen as a Source of Biopharmaceuticals for Neurodegeneration and Cancer Research: A Scoping Review and Prospective Reflections
Authors: Kacemi Rachid , Campos Maria Graça
Published: September 2024

Bee Pollen (BP) has many advantageous properties relying on its multitargeting potential, a new tendency in handling many challenging illnesses. In cancer and neurodegeneration, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antimutagenic effects of BP could be of unequaled importance and need further pharmacological and clinical investigation. Although being still limited, available data interestingly spotlights some floral sources with new and promising activities in-line with this investigation. In addition, we have identified many crucial bioactivities that are widely recognized to individual BP compounds but remain completely untapped in this valuable bee cocktail. A wide range of these compounds have been recently found to be endowed with great potential in modulating pivotal process in neurodegeneration and cancer pathophysiology, such as epigenetic regulation, microbiota composition and function, autophagy, cell death mechanisms, protein misfolding and aggregation and many other effects that we will detail in our current work. In addition, some widely present compounds in BP have only recently been isolated, while the number of studied BPs remain extremely limited compared to the endless pool of plant species that are distributed worldwide. Nevertheless, we have concomitantly elucidated that clinical profits from these promising perspectives are still impeded by some challenging hurdles such as limited bioavailability of the studied phytocompounds, diversity and lack of phytochemical standardization of BP, and the difficulty of selective targeting in some pathophysiological mechanisms. We finally present some interesting insights to guide future research and pave the way for urgent and simplified clinical investigations.
Pediatric Meningeal Diseases: What Radiologists Need to Know
Authors: Patel Dhrumil Deveshkumar , Fenton Laura Z. , Lamture Swastika , Kandula Vinay
Published: September 2024

Evaluating altered mental status and suspected meningeal disorders in children often begins with imaging, typically before a lumbar puncture. The challenge is that meningeal enhancement is a common finding across a range of pathologies, making diagnosis complex. This review proposes a categorization of meningeal diseases based on their predominant imaging characteristics. It includes a detailed description of the clinical and imaging features of various conditions that lead to leptomeningeal or pachymeningeal enhancement in children and adolescents.

These conditions encompass infectious meningitis (viral, bacterial, tuberculous, algal, and fungal), autoimmune diseases (such as anti-MOG demyelination, neurosarcoidosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, idiopathic hypertrophic pachymeningitis, and NMDA-related encephalitis), primary and secondary tumors (including diffuse glioneuronal tumor of childhood, primary CNS rhabdomyosarcoma, primary CNS tumoral metastasis, extracranial tumor metastasis, and lymphoma), tumor-like diseases (Langerhans cell histiocytosis and ALK-positive histiocytosis), vascular causes (such as pial angiomatosis, ANCA-related vasculitis, and Moyamoya disease), and other disorders like spontaneous intracranial hypotension and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Despite the nonspecific nature of imaging findings associated with meningeal lesions, narrowing down the differential diagnoses is crucial, as each condition requires a tailored and specific treatment approach.
SOAMC: A Semi-Supervised Open Set RecognitionAlgorithm for Automatic Modulation Classification
Authors: Di Chengliang , Ji Jinwei , Sun Chao , Liang Linlin
Published: September 2024

Abstract—Traditional automatic modulation classificationmethods operate under the closed-set assumption, which provesto be impractical in real-world scenarios due to the diversenature of wireless technologies and the dynamic characteristicsof wireless propagation environments. Open-set environments introduce substantial technical challenges, particularly in terms ofdetection effectiveness and computational complexity. To addressthe limitations of modulation classification and recognition inopen-set scenarios, this paper proposes a semi-supervised openset recognition approach, termed SOAMC (Semi-SupervisedOpen-Set Automatic Modulation Classification). The primaryobjective of SOAMC is to accurately classify unknown modulation types, even when only a limited subset of samples ismanually labeled. The proposed method consists of three keystages: (1) A signal recognition pre-training model is constructedusing data augmentation and adaptive techniques to enhancerobustness. (2) Feature extraction and embedding are performedvia a specialized extraction network. (3) Label propagation isexecuted using a graph convolutional neural network (GCN) toefficiently annotate the unlabeled signal samples. Experimentalresults demonstrate that SOAMC significantly improves classification accuracy, particularly in challenging scenarios with limitedlabeled data and high signal similarity. These findings are criticalfor the practical identification of complex and diverse modulationsignals in real-world wireless communication systems.
The Impact of Virtual Reality as a Rehabilitation Method using TRAVEE system on Functional Outcomes, and Disability in Stroke Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Claudia-Gabriela Potcovaru , Cinteză Delia , Sandulescu Miruna Ioana , Poenaru Daniela , Chiriac Ovidiu , Lambru Cristian , Moldoveanu Alin , Anghel Ana Magdalena , Berteanu Mihai
Published: September 2024

Background: Stroke is the third leading cause of disability, primarily due to motor, sensory, and cognitive impairments. Virtual reality (VR) has shown promising results in post-stroke rehabilita-tion, particularly for upper limb recovery. The World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0), aligned with the International Classification of Functioning, Disa-bility, and Health (ICF) principles, is a valid tool for measuring disability regardless of its cause. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of VR TRAVEE system in upper limb rehabilitation for stroke patients. Methods: 14 stroke patients with residual hemiparesis were enrolled in the study. They underwent a 10-day program combining conventional therapy (CnvT) with VR rehabilitation. At baseline (T0), upper limb was assessed using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Active Range of Motion (AROM), and the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for pain. These assessments were repeated after the 10-day rehabilitation program (T1). Additionally, disability was measured using WHODAS 2.0 at T0 and again 30 days after completing the program. Results: Significant im-provements were observed in AROM, MAS scores for the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and metacar-pophalangeal joints as well as in the reduction of shoulder pain (p˂0.001). WHODAS scores de-creased across all six domains, with a statistically significant improvement in the cognition domain (p=0.011). Conclusions: Combining CnvT with VR as a rehabilitation approach enhances motor function in the upper limb. This method has the potential to reduce disability scores and promote neuroplasticity.
Low-Dose Creatine Supplementation May Be Effective in Early-Stage Statin Myopathy: An Observational, Preliminary Study
Authors: Scarsi Elena , Dorighi Ulrico , Adriano Enrico , Grandis Marina , Balestrino Maurizio
Published: September 2024

Statins are the main cholesterol-lowering treatments, but often they are stopped because of statin myopathy. Expensive second-line treatments are then prescribed, causing a burden on the health system. Creatine supplementation may be a safe, effective and cheap alternative this shift. We investigated tolerability and possible effectiveness of creatine supplementation in statin myopathy. Our data confirmed previous findings showing that creatine supplementation is safe and well tolerated even in this elder population. In fact, 11 of the 13 enrolled patients completed the study, and only one patient interrupted the study because of a creatine-related issue (elevation of serum creatinine). Creatine supplementation significantly reduced the Shewmon and Craig’s “myopathy score”, while it did not reduce serum creatine kinase (CK), a marker of muscle structural damage. Notably, creatine supplementation was effective at the dose of 1g. t.i.d., lower that usually prescribed in international literature and within the recommendations of health agencies like the Italian Ministry of Health. Thus, creatine supplementation may improve statin myopathy in its milder and/or earlier form, when serum CK is not elevated. Moreover, creatine supplementation may prevent or delay switching from statins to the very expensive second-line anti-cholesterol treatments.
Effect of 3-Nitrooxypropanol Combined with Different Feed Additives on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Physiological Response in Feedlot Beef Cattle Fed a High-Concentrate Finishing Diet
Authors: Souza William Luiz de , Niehues Maria Betânia , Cardoso Abmael da Silva , Carvalho Victor Valério de , Perdigão Alexandre , Acedo Tiago Sabella , Costa Diogo Fleury Azevedo , Tamassia Luis Fernando Monteiro , Kindermann Maik , Reis Ricardo Andrade
Published: September 2024

The objective was to evaluate the effect of 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) in combination with different feed additives on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, enteric methane (CH4) emissions, nutrient intake and digestibility, and blood parameters in feedlot beef cattle. In experiment (Exp.) 1, one hundred sixty-eight Nellore bulls (initial bodyweight (BW) 410 ± 8 kg) were allocated to 24 pens in a completely randomized block design. In Exp. 2, thirty Nellore bulls (Initial BW 410 ± 3 kg) were allocated to a collective pen in a completely randomized design. Three treatments were applied: Control (CTL): Sodium monensin (26 mg/kg of dry matter, DM), M3NOP: CTL with 3-NOP (100 mg/kg DM) and Combo: 3-NOP (100 mg/kg DM) with essential oils (100 mg/kg DM), 25-Hydroxy-Vitamin-D3 (0.10 mg/kg DM), organic chromium (4 mg/kg DM), and zinc (60 mg/kg DM). In Exp 1, bulls in Combo had greater (P<0.01) dry matter intake (DMI) at d 28 compared with CTL and M3NOP. During d 0 to 102, bulls final BW and average daily gain (ADG) were greater (P≤0.03) for Combo compared with CTL. Bulls in Combo and M3NOP had better (P<0.01) feed conversion (FC) and feed efficiency (FE) compared with CTL. Hot carcass weight (HCW), carcass ADG and carcass yield were greater (P≤0.05) for bulls from Combo compared with CTL and M3NOP. Bulls in Combo had greater (P=0.01) dressing compared with M3NOP. Combo bulls had better (P=0.02) biological efficiency compared with CTL. Bulls in Combo had lower (P<0.01) carcass pH compared to CTL and M3NOP. In Exp. 2, bulls in Combo had greater (P=0.04) DMI at d 28 compared with CTL and had greater (P<0.01) DMI at d 102 compared with CTL and M3NOP. Bulls in Combo had greater (P=0.04) HCW compared with CTL and M3NOP and carcass ADG was greater (P=0.04) for bulls Combo compared with M3NOP. Bulls in Combo and M3NOP had lower (P<0.01) CH4 production (38.8%, g/d), yield (41.1%, g/kg DMI), intensity (40.8%, g/kg carcass ADG) and increased (P<0.01) H2 emissions (291%, g/d) compared with CTL. Combo bulls had lower (P<0.01) blood glucose and insulin, and higher nutrient intake and digestibility (P≤0.05) compared with CTL and M3NOP. Combining 3-NOP with different feed additives improved FC, FE, and reduced enteric CH4 emissions. Combo treatment improved growth performance, carcass traits, nutrient intake and digestibility, and improved glucose and insulin responses in feedlot beef cattle on a high-concentrate finishing diet.
Thorium Recovery with Crown Ether–Polymer Composite Membranes
Authors: Nechifor Aurelia Cristina , Albu Paul Constantin , Motelica Ludmila , Man Geani Teodor , Grosu Alexandra Raluca , Tanczos Szidonia-Katalin , Grosu Vlad Alexandru , Marinescu Virgil Emanuel , Nechifor Gheorghe
Published: September 2024

Thorium is a weak radioactive element, but the control of its concentration in natural aqueous systems is of great interest for health, because it is a toxic heavy metal. The present paper presents the recovery of thorium from diluted synthetic aqueous systems by nanofiltration. The membranes used for nanofiltration of systems containing thorium species are composites containing 4′-Aminobenzo-15-crown-5 ether (ABCE) and sulfonated poly–ether–ether–ketone (sPEEK). The composite membranes (ABCE–sPEEK) were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X–ray spectroscopy EDAX, thermal analysis (TG and DSC) and from the perspective of thorium removal performance. To determine the process performances, the variables were: the nature of the composite membrane, the concentration of thorium in the aqueous systems, the rotation speed of the stirrer, the pressure and the pH of the thorium aqueous system. When using pure water, a permeate flux value of 12 L·m⁻2 h⁻1 was obtained for sPEEK membrane, and up to 15 L·m⁻2 h⁻1 for the ABCE–sPEEK composite membrane. The use of mechanical stirring, with a propeller stirrer, leads to an increase in the permeate flux of pure water by about 20 % for each of the studied membrane. Depending on the concentration of thorium and the pH of the feed solution, retentions between 84.9 % and 98.4 % were obtained. An important observation is the retention jump at pH 2 for the ABCE–sPEEK composite membrane. In the paper, a thorium ion retention mechanism is proposed for the sPEEK membrane and the ABCE–sPEEK composite membrane.
Depression in the Elderly Population: A More Serious Problem Than Perceived and Its Impact on Geriatric Rehabilitation Outcomes – A Study from Switzerland
Authors: Miletic Bojan , Jelovica Lejla , Courteney Udo , Segulja Silvije
Published: September 2024

Background: Depression is a common disorder in older people. It affects their physical recovery and general well-being, leading to longer hospital stays and higher healthcare costs. Under-standing the prevalence of depression and its impact on functional outcomes in the population is crucial for improving strategies and patient care. This study aims to determine the prevalence of depression in elderly patients in geriatric rehabilitation and assess its impact on their functional abilities during the rehabilitation process; Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Lucerne Cantonal Hospital Wolhusen, Switzerland, between 2015 and 2020, involving 1,159 patients aged 65 years and older. Depression was assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) Short Form, while functional abilities were measured using the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and the Tinetti test. The data was analyzed using TIBCO Statistica 13.3, with sta-tistical significance set at p < 0.05; Results: The study found that 25.4% of participants had depressive symptoms, with higher rates in women (27.8%) than in men (21.2%). Based on FIM and Tinetti scores, these patients had lower functional abilities at admission and discharge. However, all patients, regardless of depression status, showed significant improvements in functional scores during rehabilitation; Conclusions: Depression is proving to be a problem in older people par-ticipating in geriatric rehabilitation that significantly impairs their functional progress. These findings underline the importance of recognizing and treating depressive symptoms to increase the effectiveness of rehabilitation and improve the well-being of older patients. Integrating mental health support into geriatric rehabilitation programs is critical to optimizing patient outcomes.
Impact of Intensive Insulin Stabilisation Service in Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Teasdale Stephanie , Cannon Natasha , Griffin Alison , Nisbet Janelle , Mcintyre David
Published: September 2024

Background:
Adverse pregnancy outcomes correlate with blood glucose levels in women with type 1 diabetes. There is a gap between glycaemic targets and blood glucose control achieved in pregnancy.
Aims:
To investigate the impact of an intensive weekly service on glycaemic control compared with our previous care model in pregnancies affected by type 1 diabetes.
Materials and Methods:
This is a retrospective cross-sectional pre / post study comparing measures of glycaemic control in women with type 1 diabetes at each trimester of pregnancy, in the 12 months before and the 8 months after the commencement of an intensive weekly insulin stabilisation service (ISS).
Results:
The study utilised data from Dexcom continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) reports for analysis of pregnancy-specific glycaemic data (incorporating time in range 3.5-7.8 mmol/L). 16 women provided data for 35 trimesters pre ISS and 17 women provided data for 38 trimesters post ISS. There was an improvement in pregnancy-specific time-in-range for trimester 3 following the commencement of an intensive weekly insulin stabilization service (mean pre 49.6%, post 61.4%, p=0.042). Similar results were seen when women using hybrid closed loop technology were excluded, albeit not then reaching statistical significance.
It was not possible to assess the effect of the intervention on the first trimester.
There were no statistically significant changes in glycaemia for trimester 2.
Conclusions:
In a small group of pregnant women with type 1 diabetes, improvement in pregnancy specific time-in-range occurred in trimester 3, but not in trimester 1 or 2, following the introduction of intensive weekly clinical support.
Determination of PAH Contamination in Breast Milk Samples from Hungarian Volunteering Mothers, Using HPLC/FLD
Authors: Anditi Bernard Collins , Poór Viktória , Szerencsés Dénes , Szabó István , Wahr Mátyás , Kőnig-Péter Anikó , Dergez Timea
Published: September 2024

(1) Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are hazardous organic compounds with known carcinogenic and toxic properties. Exposure to PAHs occurs through various sources, including diet, inhalation, and skin contact, and they can transfer into breast milk following maternal exposure, potentially endangering breastfeeding infants. (2) This study aimed to determine the PAH content in breast milk samples from 50 Hungarian mothers using high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC/FLD). The carcinogenic risk to infants was estimated using the Incremental Life Risk Calculation (IRCL) model. (3) Total PAH concentrations ranged from 0 to 78 ng/mL, with fluorene (5.3 ng/mL), phenanthrene (3.2 ng/mL), and pyrene (2.5 ng/mL) being the most abundant. PAHs were detected in 48 of the 50 samples, with phenanthrene present in 92% of samples. Dibenzo (a,h)anthracene was not detected. (4) Based on IRCL calculations, 10% of the samples were classified as safe, while 88% presented an acceptable carcinogenic risk for infants. Statistical analysis of questionnaires completed by the mothers indicated that factors such as diet, residence, and education may influence PAH levels in breast milk.
Beyond Sulfate-Free Personal Cleansing Technology
Authors: Su Evelyn , Herman Stephen
Published: September 2024

There is a strong global demand for sulfate- free personal cleansing products. The objective of sulfate-free personal cleansing technology should not be aimed at the absence of “sulfate” wording in the ingredient listing, but on the true benefits to both people and the planet, including but not limited to safety, mildness, and sensory for the people perspective and renewability, low carbon footprint, low water footprint, biodegradability & sustainability for the planet perspective. In addition, some surfactants or their precursors contain 1,4-dioxane as a by-product in their manufacturing, which is a major safety concern. In this paper, several commonly used sulfate-free surfactants are compared based on a variety of desirable criteria from both the people and the planet perspective. There is also an important trend promoting green manufacturing processes using natural, renewable, safe, biodegradable & sustainable feedstocks to mitigate the challenges presented by climate change. It is concluded that the best options for the sulfate-free personal cleansing products of the future are glutamates for skin cleansing and alaninates for hair cleansing.
New Allyl Derivative of Curcumin: Synthesis and Crystal Structure of (1E, 6E)-4-Allyl-1,7-bis(4′-Allyloxy-3′-Methoxyphenyl)hepta-1,6-Diene-3,5-Dione
Authors: Druzina Anna A. , Zhidkova Olga B. , Anufriev Sergey A. , Dubasova Ekaterina V. , Ananyev Ivan V. , Banerjee Samya , Sivaev Igor B. , Bregadze Vladimir I.
Published: September 2024

New allyl derivative of curcumin containing three allyl groups (1E,6E)-4-allyl-1,7-bis(4’-allyloxy-3’-methoxyphenyl)hepta-1,6-diene-3,5-dione was synthesized by the reaction of curcumin with the excess of allyl bromide in the presence of K2CO3 in acetone under reflux. The triple allylated curcumin was characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction study.
High-Performance Dual-Redox-Mediator Supercapacitors Based on Buckypaper Electrodes and Hydrogel Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Santos Junior Garbas A. , Mendes Kélrie H. A. , Oliveira Sarah G. G. de , Tonon Gabriel J. P. , Lopes Neide P. G. , da Cunha Thiago H.R. , Junior Mario Guimarães , Lavall Rodrigo L. , Ortega Paulo F. R.
Published: September 2024

In recent years, the demand for solid, thin, and flexible energy storage devices has surged in modern consumer electronics, which require autonomy and long duration. In this context, hybrid supercapacitors have become strategic, leading to significant efforts to develop cells with an energy density close to that of batteries, while maintaining the power density of conventional supercapacitors. Motivated by these requirements, we report the development of a new high-performance dual-redox-mediator supercapacitor. In this study, cells were constructed using fully moldable buckypapers (BPs), composed of carbon nanotubes and cellulose nanofibers, as electrodes. We evaluated the compatibility of BPs with hydrogel polymer electrolytes, based on 1 mol L-1 H2SO4 and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), supplemented with different redox species: methylene blue, indigo carmine, and hydroquinone. Solid cells were constructed containing two active redox species to maximize the specific capacity of each electrode. Considering the main results, the dual-redox-mediator supercapacitor exhibits a high energy density of 32.0 Wh kg-1 (at 0.8 kW kg-1) and is capable of delivering 25.9 Wh kg-1 at high power demands (4.0 kW kg-1). Stability studies conducted over 10,000 galvanostatic cycles revealed that the PVA polymer matrix benefits the system by inhibiting the crossover of redox species within the cell.
Antioxidant Properties of Albizia lebbeck Seed Protein Hydrolysates
Authors: Ekun Oluwafemi
Published: September 2024

Peptide based antioxidants from plant and animal proteins are being identified as food additives and also as potential alternatives in the reduction of oxidative stress. This study investigated the antioxidative potentials of peptide digests of Albizia lebbeck seed protein. The proteins were extracted and isolated from A. lebbeck by defatting with n-hexane, followed by alkaline solubilization and acid precipitation of the seed meal. The protein isolate was then subjected to enzymatic hydrolysis using four proteases – pepsin, trypsin, papain and chymotrypsin. The resulting hydrolysates were then evaluated for their abilities to reduce ferric ions, as well as their effects on hydroxyl radicals, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and superoxide radicals. Hydrolysates obtained from peptic proteolysis demonstrated the best activities against DPPH radical and ferric ions (57.589 ± 1.286% and 52.000 ± 0.589 mM Fe2+ respectively), whereas chymotrypsin hydrolysates scavenged superoxide radicals and hydroxyl radicals better than other protein digests (74.520 ± 0.998% and 36.925 ± 1.880% respectively). The choice of enzyme used and the presence of specific amino acid residues at certain positions of peptides in the hydrolysates influenced their antioxidant capacities. It is concluded that Albizia lebbeck seed proteins encode potentially bioactive peptides, which could be harnessed for numerous therapeutic and nutraceutical benefits.