bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FAMILY AWARENESS OF THE METHODS OF ORAL AND DENTAL HEALTHCARE FOR 5-16 -YEAR-OLD CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES
Authors: Hamadneh Burhan M. , Almogbel Wael N. , Mahnashi Mater H.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Over half of disabled children (53%) suffer from oral and dental health problems (Alwadi et al., 2022) due to poor attention from healthcare providers. Aims: Determine the level of family awareness of oral and dental healthcare methods for 5-16-year-old disabled children in Saudi Arabia. Methods: To achieve the study objective, the descriptive method by the social survey method was used. The required ethical approvals of centers and associations caring for people with disabilities in the region were obtained. These centers cooperated in publishing the study tool through social media applications; the questionnaire link was distributed to a sample of (312) parents of children aged 5-16 years with disabilities in Najran region, south of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in October and November of 2022. Results: There was a weak level of family awareness of the methods of oral and dental healthcare for children aged 5-16 years with disabilities. Also, statistically significant differences at α = 0.05 were found in the level of family awareness of the methods of oral and dental healthcare for children aged 5-16 years with nature of the relationship with the child disability in favor of mothers and the academic qualification in favor of the university academic qualification. Nevertheless, the respondents’ answers did not differ by their child’s type of disability.  Conclusion: The study recommended developing a comprehensive national strategic plan supervised by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Social Development to reduce the risk of oral and dental diseases.
THE CORRELATION OF QUALITY OF ANTENATAL CARE, MATERNAL COVID, AND MATERNAL MORTALITY DURING THE PANDEMIC PERIOD IN EAST JAVA, INDONESIA
Authors: Satyawan Dandy Candra , Setyaningsih Wahyu , Supangat Ririn Widyowati , Ernawaty  , Wulandari Ratna Dwi
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Indonesia's maternal mortality rate is still above the target of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Meanwhile, the trend of maternal mortality in Indonesia during the COVID- 19 pandemic in 2021 increased sharply from 4,627 to 6,865 cases in 2021. Aims: This study was conducted to analyze the relationship between the quality of maternal health services on the incidence of maternal COVID and maternal mortality during the COVID pandemic in East Java, Indonesia. Methods: The research was conducted in East Java Province in 2021. The sample was randomly selected as many as 35 samples from a total of 38 samples of Regencies / Cities. The data used secondary data sourced from data from the East Java Health Office. Data analysis used Person Correlation analysis with Chi-Square analysis method. Results: The first hypothesis did not find a relationship between quality of Antenatal Care services and Maternal COVID cases (p- value: 0.195, r: -0.087). The second hypothesis has a significant relationship between the Maternal COVID and the Maternal Mortality (p- value: 0.040, r: 0.548). Also, the third hypothesis showed a substantial correlation between Maternal Mortality and quality of Antenatal Care (p- value: 0.001, r: -0.555). Conclusion: There is a strong relationship between the high Maternal COVID cases and the quality of access to antenatal care services to the high Maternal COVID cases during the pandemic. There needs to be a strategy to improve the quality and access of antenatal care services in reducing the high maternal mortality rate.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors in breast cancer: development, mechanisms of resistance and potential management strategies
Authors: Wong Rachel SJ , Ong Rebecca JM , Lim Joline SJ
Published: November 2023

The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has increased exponentially in the past decade, although its progress specifically for breast cancer has been modest. The first U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval for ICI in breast cancer came in 2019, eight years after the first-ever approval of an ICI. At present, current indications for ICIs are relevant only to a subset of patients with triple-negative breast cancer, or those displaying high microsatellite instability or deficiency in the mismatch repair protein pathway. With an increasing understanding of the limitations of using ICIs, which stem from breast cancer being innately poorly immunogenic, as well as the presence of various intrinsic and acquired resistance pathways, ongoing trials are evaluating different combination therapies to overcome these barriers. In this review, we aim to describe the development timeline of ICIs and resistance mechanisms limiting their utility, and summarise the available approaches and ongoing trials relevant to overcoming each resistance mechanism.
The Chinese Narrative on the “American West”: Discursive Shift Amid Rising Foreign Policy Challenges
Authors: Denisov I.
Published: November 2023

The growing tensions between China and the US have led to a noticeable shift in their mutual perceptions, driving Chinese authors to use the term “American West” (Mei Xifang) more extensively. This study explores the evolution of the “American West” narrative and its implications for China’s worldview, utilizing a representative dataset from China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and advanced corpus linguistics techniques. The analysis delves into the semantic nuances and frequency of the “American West” narrative in academic and media discourse. Valuable insights emerge from the examination of authoritative editorials in the People’s Daily newspaper. When aligning this data with geopolitical developments, it becomes evident that the widespread use of the term “American West” corresponds with China’s strategic response to major external issues, including the Ukrainian crisis. Keyness analysis illuminates the semantic field of the narrative, demonstrating a qualitative, not just quantitative, change in discourse. Our findings suggest that the current discursive shift is primarily motivated by ideological factors. As Beijing reassesses potential threats, the “American West” narrative becomes a vital conceptual framework to foster societal cohesion. It aims to convey to the party apparatus and Chinese society the notion that China faces a more extensive challenge, surpassing the complexities in its relations with the United States. This paper underscores the significance of comprehending the multifaceted dynamics in China-US and China-West relations. As global risks and uncertainties persist and the Chinese Communist Party’s elite recalibrates strategic options, recognizing the shifting connotations of the “American West” concept is crucial for discerning China’s future trajectory.
Indo-Pacific Rivalry and U.S. Naval Planning
Authors: Kramnik I.
Published: November 2023

The U.S.-China maritime rivalry in recent years has taken on the character of a naval race where the pretender PLA Navy is rapidly increasing its capabilities and already possesses numerical superiority over the U.S. Navy. To some extent, the present situation is similar to previous naval races of the 19th and 20th centuries, between Britain and Germany, between the United States and Japan, and between the United States and the Soviet Union. However, in the past, British and American command of the seas was also confirmed by their advantage in shipbuilding, including commercial one. Now, this advantage has been lost. China, while challenging for sea control, has already gained superiority in shipbuilding. This causes the U.S. to seek means to compensate for the lack of material forces. Nevertheless, the possibility of maintaining sea control in the face of growing numerical superiority of the adversary is questionable. The capability for effective deterrence without an equivalent material basis is also questionable. This situation forces U.S. analysts to search for other solutions, including the change of the naval posture and ship`s classification, which has been established over the decades. So far, these visions have not been incorporated into official strategic guidance. The paper examines the impact of this race on American military planning and its reflection in official strategic guidance. The U.S. strategic guidance hierarchy and the interrelationship of the keystone provisions of its documents as related to military and naval planning are reviewed, as well as the evolution of naval planning in the preceding period. The article considers the key provisions and priorities of the U.S. naval strategy and the criticism of this strategy from the U.S. researchers. It analyses possible further U.S. actions for implementation of the adopted maritime strategy and the limitations on this path.
Brand Identity and Halal in Malaysia’s Food Smes: One Tale from Two Model Analyses
Authors: Razak Muhammad Nur Fitri , Bidin Rosmiza , Mohamad Bahtiar , Osman Mohd Nizam , Tham Jen Sern , Atan Rodziah , Balakrishnan Kavitha
Published: November 2023

Corporate identity has played a vital role in the Halal industry to create a strong foundation for its reputation in the long run. This paper used two modeling analyses for two different data. The first analysis aims to predict the relationship between Corporate Identity Management between Internal Brand and Employee Brand Support (consequence) mediated by CIM using partial-least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). A total of 206 employees from Malaysia’s Halal food SMEs took part in the survey. The second analysis to identify topic proportions patterns using the topic modeling approach on Halal brand identity Machine learning approach of knowledge mining was applied for this analysis. Metadata of 1,091 articles were mined from the Scopus database on Halal studies across all social sciences fields. The result revealed that there was a partial relationship between Internal Brand (antecedent) and Employee Brand Support (consequence) mediated by CIM. This finding was supported by the identified topic proportions patterns from the topic modeling approach that pointed out a weak topic proportion on the Halal brand identity discussion globally, interestingly the result also found that the Halal brand identity discussion involving the Halal food industry is almost non-existed in Malaysia’s Halal food SMEs. The contributions of this paper were apparent in three major areas which are methodology, theoretical and future suggestions. The utilization of two different model analyses was able to confirm the consistency of the major findings with the literature review which opens up more possibilities for future researchers.
Modified Characteristic Finite Element Method with Second-Order Spatial Accuracy for Solving Convection-Dominated Problem on Surfaces
Authors: Wu Longyuan , Feng Xinlong , He Yinnian
Published: November 2023

We present a modified characteristic finite element method that exhibits second-order spatial accuracy for solving convection-reaction-diffusion equations on surfaces.

The temporal direction adopted backward-Euler method, while the spatial direction employed surface finite element method.

In contrast to regular domains, it is observed that the point in the characteristic direction traverses the surface only once within a brief time.

Thus, the good approximation of the solution in the characteristic direction holds significant importance for the numerical scheme.

In this regard, Taylor expansion is employed to reconstruct the solution beyond the surface in the characteristic direction.

The stability of our scheme is then proved.

A comparison is made with an existing characteristic finite element method based on face mesh.

Numerical examples are provided to validate the effectiveness of our proposed method.
Relationship between Eating Habits and Nonylphenol Concentration in Breast Milk of Women in Slovakia
Authors: Repková Adriana , Mišľanová Csilla , Hrabčáková Janka , Masár Marián , Slezáková Zuzana , Žemlička Lukáš , Valachovičová Martina
Published: November 2023

: Nonylphenol is an endocrine disruptor who belongs to alkylphenol group of chemicals and its high occurrence in the environment can caused an adverse effect on human health. The breast milk can serve as a marker to take measure of human exposure to these chemicals through different routes of exposure. In this study, the influence of different factors (kind of wastes mothers drink, consummation of fish, pork and beef; using gloves, mail polish, using vitamins and medication) on the concentration on nonylphenol in breast milk were studied. Concentrations of nonylphenol in breast milk were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection. The lowest and highest concentration of nonylphenol in breast milk was 0.97 ng/mL and 4.37 ng/mL, respectively. The selected factors such as pork, beef, fish consumption, vitamin supplementation, medication, using of gloves, nail polish and gel nails were observed in relation to 4-nonylphenol concentration.
Exploring the Potential Relationship Between Oxidative Stress in Fertile Individuals and Secondary Infertility: A Comparative Analysis of Proteomic Profiles in Seminal Plasma
Authors: Sawaid Kaiyal Raneen , Mukherjee Sromona D , Panner Selvam Manesh Kumar , AW Miller , Vij Sarah C , Lundy Scott D
Published: November 2023

Oxidative stress is increasingly implicated in male secondary infertility, where the seminal plasma altered proteome composition plays a critical role. This study aims to explore proteomic changes in the seminal plasma of fertile individuals with oxidative stress and secondary infertility patients, hypothesizing oxidative stress as a key factor in secondary infertility. Pooled semen samples from both groups underwent quantitative proteomics analysis using advanced mass spectrometry, with subsequent bioinformatic analysis using tools like DAVID, STRING, and IPA for identifying differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). The study identified 377 DEPs in the secondary infertile group and 523 DEPs in healthy controls, revealing seven mutual pathways including acute phase response signaling and free radical scavenging. Significant alterations were noted in proteins like C3 and SERPINA3, associated with sperm function and fertility. The findings suggest that oxidative stress-induced proteomic alterations in seminal plasma are linked to secondary infertility, highlighting potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This research underscores the importance of understanding the interplay between oxidative stress and seminal plasma proteins, potentially guiding personalized treatment strategies to improve fertility outcomes in affected individuals.
Small but Powerful: NudC Proteins in Plants
Authors: Vassileva Valya , Georgieva Mariyana , Todorov Dimitar , Mishev Kiril
Published: November 2023

This review compiles research findings pertaining to Nuclear Distribution C (NudC) genes and their involvement in various cellular processes, including nuclear migration, intracellular transport, nuclear positioning and cell cycle progression. Structural and functional similarities of NudC pro-teins across diverse organisms highlight their evolutionary conserved nature and pivotal roles in upholding cellular functions. Special attention is given to the growing importance of NudC family members in plants, elucidating their contributions to plant growth, development and responses to environmental challenges. Within this framework, we spotlight two Arabidopsis NudC genes, BOB1 and NMig1, for their indispensable roles in embryo and postembryonic development, and involvement in stress responses and tolerance mechanisms. Furthermore, we accentuate the chaperone activity of plant NudC family members, a crucial function in mitigating the adverse effects of stress and bolstering plant resilience in the face of environmental challenges. These insights underscore the promising potential of NudC members as valuable targets for enhancing crop performance, particularly when directed towards optimizing plant morphology and fortifying en-vironmental resistance to enhance overall crop productivity.
Landscape Patterns Modified by Harvesting and Ranching Allowed the Invasion of Understory Species, Affecting Sustainability of Management Practices in Southern Patagonia
Authors: Rosas Yamina Micaela , Peri Pablo Luis , Cellini Juan Manuel , Lencinas María V. , Kepfer Rojas Sebastian , Schmidt Inger Kappel , Pechar Sebastián , Barrera Marcelo Daniel , Martínez Pastur Guillermo J.
Published: November 2023

Forest management aims to preserve ecosystem integrity, maintaining resilience thresholds. For this, conservation and invasion patterns must be determined in managed landscapes. The objective was to identify proxies (landscape and environmental patterns) that allowed the plant species invasion and define thresholds of human impacts to improve management practices. We also want to identify indicator species for the different kinds of impacts and environments. 165 plots were measured in Nothofagus antarctica forests and associated open-lands (dry and wet grasslands) in Tierra del Fuego (Argentina). We found differences in the studied variables across landscape and among different uses and impact types. Human impacts influenced over land types, emphasizing the importance of managing intensities. Indicator plant species allowed to identify potential ecological thresholds related to human impacts and the establishment of species linked to ecological and economic degradation, e.g. Bolax gummifera and Azorella trifurcata were associated with high grazing pressure in grasslands and fire in forested areas, while Rumex acetosella and Achillea millefolium, typically associated with forested areas, were related to high harvesting pressure and fire impacts. These findings contribute to understanding the long-term effects of some impacts, and allow us to define variables of monitoring and indicator species for each impact type.
Pre-therapeutic Assessment of Older People in Sub-Saharan Africa: Introduction to the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment
Authors: Ntsama-Essomba Marie-Josiane , Esson-Mapoko Berthe Sabine , Metogo-Mbengono Junette Arlette , SIMO-TABUE Nadine , Kengne Andre P. , Choukem Simeon Pierre , Sobngwi Eugene , Mikande Jacqueline Ze , TABUE-TEGUO Maturin
Published: November 2023

Objectives As the epidemiological transition continues in sub-Saharan Africa, we will see in future more conditions that require invasive treatment (surgery, cancer and anaesthesia, ie..). Olders patients are vulnerable to complications such as functional decline, increased length of stay and mortality as a result of this type of treatment. Comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) is a multidisciplinary diagnostic process aimed at identifying older people at risk of negative outcome. It is delivered by a multidisciplinary team and its benefits in reducing functional disability, incidence of mortality and other adverse health outcomes are well established. It is important to know whether this approach integrates care management strategies for older people in a context where health services for older people are scarce and staff have little training in geriatrics. The objective of this work was to review the literature on the use of CGA on invasive care (cancer, surgery, etc.) among older people in SSA.
Methods A MEDLINE/PubMed database search was conducted to identify articles reporting CGA and conditions requiring invasive treatment in older patients in SSA.
Results/Conclusion Taken together, the studies examined in this review show that little work has been done on the impact of CGA in older people invasive care in SSA. This review can help to assess the role of CGA in the care trajectories of older people in terms of prognosis, and thus encourage more in-depth research on this topic.
Bioinformatics Analysis of Global Diversity in Meningococcal Vaccine Antigens over the Past 10 Years; Vaccine Efficiency Prognosis
Authors: Savitskaya Viktoriia Yu. , Dolinnaya Nina G. , Strekalovskikh Vadim V. , Peskovatskova Elizaveta S. , Snyga Viktoriia G. , Trefilov Vadim S. , Monakhova Mayya V. , Kubareva Elena A.
Published: November 2023

Neisseria meningitidis (N. meningitidis) serogroup B (MenB) is the leading cause of invasive meningococcal disease worldwide. The pathogen has a wide range of virulence factors, which are potential vaccine components. Studying the genetic variability of antigens within a population, especially their long-term persistence, is necessary to develop new vaccines and predict the effectiveness of existing ones. The multicomponent 4CMenB vaccine (Bexsero), used since 2014, contains three major genome-derived recombinant proteins: factor H-binding protein (fHbp), Neisserial Heparin-Binding Antigen (NHBA) and Neisserial adhesin A (NadA). Here, we assessed the prevalence and sequence variations of these vaccine antigens in a panel of 5667 meningococcal isolates collected worldwide over the past 10 years and deposited in the PubMLST database. Using multiple amino acid sequence alignments and machine learning methods, we estimated the potential strain coverage by fHbp and NHBA vaccine variants (51 and about 30%, respectively); the NadA antigen sequence was found in only 17.8% of MenB genomes analyzed, but cross-reactive variants were present in less than 1% of isolates. Based on our findings, we proposed various strategies to improve the 4CMenB vaccine and broaden coverage of N. meningitidis strains.
Polymeric Materials in Speciation Analysis Based on Solid Phase Extraction
Authors: Dakova Ivanka , Yordanova Tanya , Karadjova Irina
Published: November 2023

Speciation analysis is a relevant topic since the (eco)toxicity, bioavailability, bio (geo)chemical cycles, and mobility of a given element depend on its chemical forms (oxidation state, organic ligands, etc.). Reliability of analytical results for chemical species of elements depends mostly on the maintaining of their stability during sample pretreatment step and on the selectivity of further separation step. Solid phase extraction (SPE) is a matter of choice as most suitable and widely used procedure for both enrichment of chemical species of elements and their separation. Features of sorbent material are of great importance to ensure extraction efficiency from one side and selectivity from other side of SPE procedure. This review presents an update on the application of polymeric materials in solid-phase extraction used in non-chromatographic methods for speciation analysis.
Emergency Department Times Targets for Interhospital Transfer of Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Daian Popa I , Aida Iancu , Alina Petrica , Florina Buleu , Carmen Williams Gabriela , Dumitru Sutoi , Cosmin Trebuian Iosif , Tudor Anca , Ovidiu Mederle A
Published: November 2023

Background and objectives: Although intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) has been shown to be effective in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) only a small proportion of stroke patients receive this drug. Low administration rate is mainly due to delayed presentation of patients to the emergency department (ED) or lack of a stroke team/unit in most of the hospitals. So, the aim of this study is to analyze ED time targets and the rate of rt-PA intravenous administration after the initial admission of patients with AIS in an ED from a traditional healthcare center (without a neurologist or stroke team/unit). Methods: To analyze which factors, influence administration of rt-PA we split the general sample (n=202) in two groups: group No rt-PA (n=137) and group rt-PA (n=65) based on performing or no intravenous thrombolysis. Results: Analyzing ED time targets for all sample we found that the median onset-to-ED door time was 180 minutes (IQR, 120-217.5 minutes), door-to-physician time was 4 minutes (IQR, 3-7 minutes), door-to-CT time was 52 minutes (IQR, 48-55 minutes), and door-in-door-out time was 61 minutes (IQR, 59-65 minutes). ED time targets such as door-to physician time (p=0.245), door-to-CT time (p=0.219), door-to-door-out time (p=0.24), or NIHSS at admission to Neurology department (p=0.405), or NIHSS after 24 h (p=0.9) did not have a statistically significant effect on administration or no rt-PA treatment in patients included in our study. Only highest Door-to-CT time was statistically significantly correlated with death outcome. Conclusion: In our study, rt-PA administration rate was higher than expected. Statistically significant correlation between ED time targets was found between lower Onset-to-ED door time with administration of rt-PA treatment (p<0.001) and between highest Door-to-CT time and death outcome.
A New Strategy for Discovering Structurally Clear Plant Biostimulants
Authors: Gao Peiwen , Wang Kui , Qi Chang , Chen Keming , Xiang Wensheng , Zhang Yue , Zhang Jie , Shu Changlong
Published: November 2023

Structurally clear compounds have advantages for quality control in plant biostimulant production and application processes. Humic acid (HA) is a biostimulant that significantly affects plant growth, and soil-dwelling Protaetia brevitarsis larva (PBL) can rapidly convert agricultural waste into HA. In this study, we use PBL as a model to investigate HA formation and screen for HA-related structurally clear plant biostimulant compounds. The dephasing magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (13C DD–MAS NMR) analysis indicated HA structural changes during PBL digestion; the metabolic profile detected seven HA-related aromatic ring-containing compounds. Plant experiments identified six compounds with stimulating effects, with piperic acid being reported for the first time in this study. Thus, this study not only provides insights into the insect-mediated transformation of HA but also illustrates a new strategy for discovering structurally clear plant biostimulant compounds.
Prioritization of Scheduled Surgeries Using Fuzzy Decision Support and Risk Assessment Methods
Authors: Fabisiak Luiza
Published: November 2023

This paper proposes a model that combines multi-criteria and multi-faceted risk assessment. Using two data sources, a fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution FTOPSIS method combined with FMEA assessment. The FMEA method presented in this paper combines the technique of prioritising preferences according to FTOPSIS similarity to the ideal solution and conviction structure to overcome the defects of traditional FMEA indicators. The paper describes the exact process and tool selection, and the results obtained in the study verified accurate data. Finally, a numerical case study was presented on hospital reorganization services and case adaptation to prioritize surgical abandonment in Poland. The problem considered in the publication is the priority of patients’ operations in hospitals. The selection of relevant criteria, their importance and patient preferences are presented. The results obtained from the method provide a viable action plan for the proposed research problem. The proposed method is multi-faceted and can be part of an information system supporting reorganization, restructuring, and modification of the operational process.
Identification of Molecular Markers Associated with Prostate Cancer Subtypes: An Integrative Bioinformatics Approach
Authors: Granata Ilaria , Barboro Paola
Published: November 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) is characterised by androgen-dependency. Unfortunately, under anti-androgen treatment pressure, castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) emerges, characterised by heterogeneous cell populations that, over time, lead to the development of different androgen-dependent or -independent phenotypes. Despite important advances in therapeutic strategies, CRPC remains incurable. Context-specific essential genes represent valuable candidates for targeted anti-cancer therapies.
Through the investigation of gene and protein annotations and the integration of several published transcriptomic data, we identified two consensus lists to stratify PCa patients' risk and discriminate CRPC phenotypes based on androgen receptor activity. ROC and Kaplan-Meier survival analyses were used for gene set validation in independent datasets. We further evaluated these genes for their association with cancer dependency.
The deregulated expression of the PCa-related genes was associated with overall and disease-specific survival, metastasis and/or high recurrence risk, while the CRPC-related genes clearly discriminated between adeno and neuroendocrine phenotypes. Some of the genes showed context-specific essentiality. We further identified candidate drugs through a computational repositioning approach for targeting these genes and treating lethal variants of PCa.
This work provides a proof-of-concept for the use of an integrative approach to identify candidate biomarkers involved in PCa progression and CRPC pathogenesis within the goal of precision medicine.
Advances and Challenges in Cryogel-Based Tissue Engineering for Effective Bone and Cartilage Reconstruction
Authors: Carriero Vito Cosimo , Di Muzio Laura , Petralito Stefania , Casadei Maria Antonietta , Paolicelli Patrizia
Published: November 2023

Critical sized bone defects and articular cartilage injuries resulting from trauma, osteonecrosis or age-related degeneration are often nonhealing by the physiological repairing mechanisms, thus representing a clinic issue due to the relevant epidemiological incidence. Current treatment approaches consist of autologous or allogenic grafting, which are associated with painfulness, morbidity, risk of infections and rejection. Novel tissue-engineering approaches, aiming at the reconstruction of damaged tissues, have been proposed as alternative solutions to these conven-tional methods. These approaches are based on the combination of three fundamental compo-nents: autologous or allogenic cells, a scaffold and growth-stimulating signals, which are gener-ally referred to as the tissue engineering triad. Three-dimensional polymer networks are fre-quently used as scaffolds to allow cell proliferation and tissue regeneration. In this scenario, cryogels are giving promising results as cell scaffolds over other polymer networks, thanks to their peculiar properties. In particular, cryogels possess an interconnected porous structure and a typical sponge-like behaviour, which facilitate the cellular infiltration and ingrowth. Their properties can be appropriately adjusted to match the requirements of the specific tissue or or-gan that it is intended to regenerate. In this review it is reported the state of the art on the fabri-cation and employment of cryogels in supporting osteo or chondro-genic differentiation for the re-building of more organized tissues. Moreover, it will highlight current progress and future perspectives in the implementation of this technology in the clinical practice.
Acute Vascular Response to Hemodialysis as Measured by Serum Syndecan‐1 and Endothelin‐1 Levels, as well as Vascular Stiffness
Authors: Sági Balázs , Kun Szilárd , Jakabfi-Csepregi Rita , Sulyok Endre , Csiky Botond
Published: November 2023

Chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients have very high cardiovascular risk. Acute vascular changes during dialysis mediated by factors of the endothelium may have a crucial role in this. Aim: To study acute vascular changes during HD. In 29 consecutive chronic HD patients (age: 65.6±10.4 years) pre-, mid-, and post-HD plasma syndecan-1 (SDC-1) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels were measured. Applanation tonometry was performed before HD. SDC-1 levels increased during HD (p=0.004). Males had higher ET-1 levels. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on pulse wave velocity (PWV): PWV≥12 m/s and PWV<12 m/s. Pre-HD and mid-HD SDC-1 levels were higher in the group with PWV≥12 m/s (10.174±2.568 vs. 7.928±1.794 ng/ml, p=0.013, and 10.319±3.482 vs. 8.248±1.793 ng/ml, p=0.044, respectively). Post-HD ET-1 levels were higher in the patient group having PWV≥12 m/s (10.88±3.00 vs. 8.05±3.48 pg/l, p=0.027). Patients having PWV≥12 m/s had higher pre-HD peripheral and aortic systolic blood pressure (p<0.05). Total cholesterol correlated with the SDC-1 decrease during HD (r=0.539; p=0.008). Pre-, mid-, and post-HD SDC-1 correlated with the ultrafiltration (r=0.432, p=0.019; r=0.377, p=0.044; and r=0.401, p=0.012, respectively). SDC-1 and ET-1 contribute to vascular changes observed during HD, and they have correlations with some cardiovascular risk factors.
Tapioca Starch Improves the Quality of Virgatus nemipterus Surimi Gel by Enhancing the Molecular Interaction in the Gel System
Authors: Huang Xiaobing , Wang Pengkai , Song Chunyong , Ma Huanta , Hong Pengzhi , Liu Qingguan , Zhou Chunxia
Published: November 2023

The gel prepared by Nemipterus virgatus (N. virgatus) surimi alone still has some defects in texture and taste. Complexing with polysaccharides is an efficient strategy to enhance the gel properties. The main objective of the study was to analyze the relationship between the gel quality and molecular interaction of N. virgatus surimi gel after complexing with tapioca starch. The results make clear that the gel strength, hardness, and chewiness of surimi gel were increased by molecular interaction with tapioca starch. At the appropriate addition amount (12%, w/w), the surimi gel had excellent gel strength (17.48 N), water holding capacity (WHC) (89.01%), lower cooking loss rate (CLR) (0.95%), and shorted T2 relaxation time. Microstructure analysis indicated that the addition of tapioca starch made the surimi gel evenly distributed in the gel network structure, resulting in a significant reduction in cavities diameter, and the minimum diameter could be reduced to 20.33 μm. In addition, tapioca starch enhanced the hydrogen bond and hydrophobic interaction in the gel system and promoted the transformation of α-helix to β-sheet (P<0.05). Correlation analysis showed that the increased physicochemical properties of surimi gel was closely related to the enhanced non-covalent interactions. In conclusion, the non-covalent complexation with tapioca starch is an efficient strategy to enhance the gel quality of surimi gel.
Measuring Variant-Specific Neutralizing Antibody Profiles after Bivalent SARS-CoV-2 Vaccinations by a Multivariant Surrogate Virus Neutralization Microarray
Authors: Springer David Niklas , Höltl Eva , Prüger Katja , Puchhammer-Stöckl Elisabeth , Aberle Judith Helene , Stiasny Karin , Weseslindtner Lukas
Published: November 2023

The capability of antibodies to neutralize different SARS-CoV-2 variants varies among individuals depending on the previous exposure to wild-type- or Omicron-specific immunogens by mono- or bivalent vaccinations or infections. Such profiles of neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) usually have to be assessed by laborious live virus-neutralization tests (NTs). We therefore analyzed whether a novel multivariant surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT) (adapted from a commercial microarray) that quantifies the antibody-mediated inhibition between the receptor angiotensin-converting-enzyme 2 (ACE2) and variant-specific receptor-binding domains (RBDs) can assess the neutralizing activity against SARS-CoV-2 wild-type, Delta Omicron BA.1, BA.2 and BA.5 (sub-) variants after a booster with Omicron-adapted bivalent vaccines in a manner similar to live-virus NTs. Indeed, by using the live-virus NTs as a reference, we found a significant correlation between the variant-specific NT titers and levels of ACE2-RBD binding inhibition (p < 0.0001, r ≤ 0.78 respectively). Furthermore, the sVNTs identified higher inhibition values against BA.5 and BA.1 in individuals vaccinated with Omicron-adapted vaccines than in those with monovalent wild-type vaccines. Our data thus demonstrate the ability of sVNTs to detect variant-specific nAbs following a booster with bivalent vaccines.
Automobiles’ Acceleration Analysis When Crossing Road Intersections
Authors: Scattolin Federico , Micucci Alfonso
Published: November 2023

Acceleration rates of vehicles are crucially important statistics needed in two main aspects: first, they are essential to incident reconstructor professionals as having a verified database on where basing the cinematic reconstructions is definitely difficult and moreover, they are useful in order to understand how to create the safest possible environment on the road. This key topic gives es-sential information for road design like intersection schemes, acceleration and deceleration lane length as well as traffic simulation modelling and furthermore, to educate vehicle drivers when entering the traffic flow and to provide limit acceleration values needed to develop autonomous vehicle’s software in order to guarantee a comfort drive.
Literature reports tons of linear acceleration stats mainly referred to vehicle performances claimed by car manufacturers, but these data don’t recreate real drivers’ behaviour when entering the road by turning left or right or crossing an intersection. This work aims to integrate the most reliable data from literature with a hybrid and an electric vehicles statistic, adding also two contemporary thermal engine vehicles, extracted conducting probes that recreates real road environment.
The entirety of these experiments reconstructs the scenario in which a car is entering the traffic of a two-lanes road, from a stationary position at a stop sign and the acceleration rates are collected using a M.E.M.S. (Microelectromechanical system).
Finally, the space needed between the car that is about to enter or crossing the road and the car that is approaching the intersection is calculated, basing the computations on the acceleration values extracted from the probes. These spaces are pictured, as a way to give a concrete idea to readers.
The Rehabilitation Efficacy of the Novel Cardiac Recovery Training Metronomic Breathing Technique on Patients Post-PCI for Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Zhu Zhaoxin , Wang Zeyu , Sun Yifan , Wang Ting , Lu Yunlan , Che Wenliang , Liu Weijing , Xu Yawei
Published: November 2023

Background: Respiratory rehabilitation is a crucial component of cardiac recovery. This study primarily investigates the effectiveness of a novel respiratory rehabilitation technique known as Metronomic Breathing (MB) on cardiac recovery in post-PCI acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients and compliance with home-based rehabilitation compared to traditional respiratory rehabilitation methods.
Methods: From June 2022 to March 2023, 55 AMI patients admitted to the Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital Cardiovascular Department were consecutively enrolled. They were randomly divided into the MB and control groups, which underwent conventional abdominal breathing training. Afterwards, hemodynamic indicators and compliance with home-based rehabilitation were compared between the two groups.
Results: After the intervention in the MB group, several cardiac functional parameters (SV, SVI, CO, CI, LCW, LCWI), myocardial contractility parameter (VI), and systemic vascular resistance parameters (SVR, SVRI) were significantly higher compared to the pre-intervention levels, with a significant difference (P < 0.05). Furthermore, post-treatment, the MB group exhibited higher values for SV, SVI, CO, CI, and VI, lower SVR, SVRI, and SBP and a lower readmission rate three months later than the control group. Moreover, the MB group displayed higher compliance with home-based cardiac rehabilitation (P < 0.05).
Conclusions: Compared to conventional respiratory rehabilitation training methods, Metronomic respiratory therapy is more effective in the short term for reducing systemic vascular resistance, enhancing left ventricular ejection function, and increasing home-based rehabilitation compliance in patients following AMI with PCI.
Proteomics Applications in Toxoplasma gondii: Unveiling the Host-Parasite Interactions and Therapeutic Target Discovery
Authors: Deng Bin , Vanagas Laura , Angel Sergio O.
Published: November 2023

Toxoplasma gondii, a protozoan parasite with the ability to infect various warm-blooded vertebrates, including humans, is the causative agent of toxoplasmosis. This infection poses significant risks, leading to severe complications in immunocompromised individuals and potentially affecting the fetus through congenital transmission. A comprehensive understanding of the intricate molecular interactions between T. gondii and its host is pivotal for the development of effective therapeutic strategies. This review emphasizes the crucial role of proteomics in T. gondii research, with a specific focus on host-parasite interactions, post-translational modifications (PTMs), PTM crosstalk, and ongoing efforts in drug discovery. Additionally, we provide an overview of recent advancements in proteomics techniques, encompassing interactome sample preparation methods such as BioID, APEX, and Y2H, as well as various proteomics approaches, including single-cell analysis, DIA, targeted, top-down, and plasma proteomics. Furthermore, we discuss the integration of proteomics with other omics technologies, highlighting its potential in unraveling the intricate mechanisms of T. gondii pathogenesis and identifying novel therapeutic targets.
Unsupervised Wavelet-Feature Correlation Ratio Markov Clustering Algorithm for Remotely Sensed Images
Authors: Wang Zhaohui
Published: November 2023

The spectrums of one type of object under different conditions have the same features (up, down, protruding, concave) at the same spectral positions, which can be used as primary parameters to evaluate the difference among remotely sensed pixels. Wavelet-feature correlation ratio Markov clustering algorithm (WFCRMCA) for the remotely sensed data is proposed based on an accurate description of abrupt spectral features and an optimized Markov clustering in the wavelet feather space. The peak points can be captured and identified by applying a wavelet transform to spectral data. The correlation ratio between two samples is a statistical calculation of the matched peak point positions on the wavelet feature within an adjustable spectrum domain or a range of wavelet scales. The evenly sampled data can be used to create class centers, depending on the correlation ratio threshold at each Markov step, accelerating the clustering speed by avoiding the computation of Euclidean distance for traditional clustering algorithms, such as K-means and ISODATA. Markov clustering applies several strategies, such as a simulated annealing method and gradually shrinking the clustering size, to control the clustering convergence. At each clustering tempera-ture, it can obtain the best class centers quickly. The experimental results of the Airborne Visible/ Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) and Thermal Mapping (TM) data have verified its ac-ceptable clustering accuracy and high convergence velocity.
Design, Fabrication, and Evaluation of a Phase-Resolved Partial Discharge Sensor embedded in MV-Class Bushing
Authors: Lee Gyeong-Yeol , Kim Nam-Hoon , Kim Dong-Eon , Kil Gyung-Suk , Kim Sung-Wook
Published: November 2023

This paper proposes a novel phase-resolved partial discharge (PRPD) sensor embedded in MV-class bushing for high-accuracy insulation analysis. The design, fabrication, and evaluation of a PRPD sensor embedded in MV-class bushing aimed to detect partial discharge (PD) pulses that are phase-synchronized with the applied primary HV signals. A prototype PRPD sensor was composed of a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) with dual-sensing electrodes, utilizing a capacitive voltage divider (CVD) principle for voltage measurement and D-dot principle for PD detection, and a signal transducer with passive elements. A PD simulator was prepared to emulate typical PD defects, i.e., a metal protrusion. The voltage measurement precision of the prototype PRPD sensor was satisfied with the accuracy class of 0.2 specified in IEC 61869-11, as the maximum corrected voltage error ratios and corrected phase errors in 80%, 100%, and 120% of the rated voltage (13.2 kV) were less than 0.2% and 10 minutes, respectively. In addition, the prototype PRPD sensor had good linearity and high sensitivity for PD detection compared with a conventional electrical detection method. According to performance evaluation tests, the prototype PRPD sensor embedded in the MV-class bushing can measure PRPD patterns phase-synchronized with the primary voltage without any additional synchronization equipment or system. Therefore, the prototype PRPD sensor holds potential as a substitute for conventional commercial PD sensors. Consequently, this advancement could lead to the enhancement of power system monitoring and maintenance, contributing to the digitalization and minimization of power apparatus.
Multibeam Cylindrical Conformal Array in the Presence of Enhanced Mutual Coupling
Authors: Lv Xianyang , Zhang Yongwei , Shi Quan , Fu Yanwei , Temiz Murat , El-Makadema Ahmed , Li Hongliang
Published: November 2023

The limitations of conventional sensors have made phased array antennas increasingly crucial for gathering information and communication applications in intelligent transportation systems. Compact cylindrical arrays, in particular, are favored for their ability to achieve azimuth angle scan. However, the substantial mutual coupling effect between elements on curved surfaces and its implication in these arrays remains unclear, which is a crucial factor to consider when such arrays are used for multibeam applications. This study investigated the effect of mutual coupling in a dual-slant-polarized cylindrical array. The results showed that mutual coupling is essential for achieving an ultra-wide bandwidth. Mutual coupling is predominantly observed among elements that are closely positioned. The study also analyzes the impact of mutual coupling on scan impedance and radiation characteristics for multibeam applications and reveals that these arrays exhibit robust multibeam capability, hence having great potential for use in intelligent transportation systems.
Spatial Estimation of Daily Growth Biomass in Paddy Rice Field Using Canopy Photosynthesis Model Based on Ground and UAV Observations
Authors: Yamashita Megumi , Kaieda Tomoya , Toyoda Hiro , Yamaguchi Tomoaki , Katsura Keisuke
Published: November 2023

Precision farming, a labor-saving and highly productive management, is gaining popularity as the number of farmers declines in contrast to the increasing global food demand. However, it requires more efficient crop phenology observation and growth monitoring. One measure is the Leaf Area Index (LAI), which is essential for estimating biomass and yield, but its validation requires destructive field measurements. Remote sensing offers a non-destructive and effective method for ground- and UAV-based field observations. Thus, in this study, a method for indirect estimation of LAI was investigated using ground and UAV observation data. A weekly plant survey was done to measure the plant height, above-ground biomass, and light intensity. Furthermore, images from ground-based and UAV-based cameras were acquired to generate NDVI and the canopy height (CH), respectively. Using the canopy photosynthetic model, derived from Lambert-Beer’s law, the daily biomass was estimated by applying the weekly estimated LAI using CH, and the observed light intensity data as input. The results demonstrated the possibility of quantitatively estimating the daily growth biomass of rice plants, including its spatial variation. The near-real-time estimation method of rice biomass by integrating observation data at fields with numerical models can be applied to the management of major crops.