bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of Ferroptosis Ameliorates Photoreceptor Degeneration in Experimental Diabetic Mice
Authors: Gao Sha , Gao Shuang , Wang Yanuo , Li Na , Yang Zijian , Yao Huiping , Chen Yanwei , Cheng Yu , Zhong Yisheng , Shen Xi
Published: November 2023

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of vision impairment in the working-age population worldwide. Various modes of photoreceptor cell death contribute to the development of DR, including apoptosis and autophagy. However, whether ferroptosis is involved in the pathogenesis of photoreceptor degeneration in DR is still unclear. High-glucose (HG)-stimulated 661W cells and diabetic mice models were used for in vitro and in vivo experiments, respectively. The levels of intracellular iron, glutathione (GSH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation (MDA), and ferroptosis-related proteins (GPX4, SLC7A11, ACSL4, FTH1, and NCOA4) were quantified to indicate ferroptosis. The effect of ferroptosis inhibition was also assessed. Our data showed the levels of iron, ROS, and MDA were enhanced and GSH concentration was reduced in HG-induced 661W cells and diabetic retinas. The expression of GPX4 and SLC7A11 was downregulated, while the expression of ACSL4, FTH1, and NCOA4 was upregulated in the 661W cells cultured under HG conditions and in the photoreceptor cells in diabetic mice. Furthermore, the administration of the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) obviously alleviated ferroptosis-related changes in HG-cultured 661W cells and in retinal photoreceptor cells in diabetic mice. Taken together, our findings suggest that ferroptosis is involved in photoreceptor degeneration in the development of the early stages of DR.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 21: A Fascinating Perspective on the Regulation of Muscle Metabolism
Authors: Li Shuo , Chen Jun , Wei Panting , Zou Tiande , You Jinming
Published: November 2023

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) plays a vital role in normal eukaryotic organism development and homeostatic metabolism under the influence of internal and external factors such as endogenous hormone changes and exogenous stimuli. Over the last few decades, comprehensive studies have revealed the key role of FGF21 in regulating many fundamental metabolic pathways, including the muscle stress response, insulin signaling transmission, and muscle development. By coordinating these metabolic pathways, FGF21 is thought to contribute to acclimating to a stressful environment and the subsequent recovery of cell and tissue homeostasis. With the emphasis on FGF21, we extensively reviewed the research findings on the production and regulation of FGF21 and its role in muscle metabolism. We also emphasize how the FGF21 metabolic networks mediate mitochondrial dysfunction, glycogen consumption, and myogenic development and investigate prospective directions for the functional exploitation of FGF21 and its downstream effectors, such as the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR).
Biodegradable Polymers in Biomedical Applications: A Review—Developments, Perspectives and Future Challenges
Authors: Kurowiak Jagoda , Klekiel Tomasz , Będziński Romuald
Published: November 2023

Biodegradable polymers are materials that, thanks to their remarkable properties, are widely understood to be suitable for use in scientific fields such as tissue engineering and materials engineering. Due to the alarming increase in the number of diagnosed diseases and conditions, polymers are of great interest in biomedical applications especially. The use of biodegradable polymers in biomedicine is constantly expanding. The application of new techniques or the improvement of existing ones makes it possible to produce materials with desired properties, such as mechanical strength, controlled degradation time and rate and antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. In addition, these materials can take virtually unlimited shapes as a result of appropriate design. This is additionally desirable when it is necessary to develop new structures that support or restore the proper functioning of systems in the body.
Two High-Quality Cygnus Genome Assemblies Reveal Genomic Variations Associated with Plumage Color
Authors: Chong Yuqing , Tu Xiaolong , Lu Ying , Gao Zhendong , He Xiaoming , Hong Jieyun , Wu Jiao , Wu Dongdong , Xi Dongmei , Deng Weidong
Published: November 2023

As an exemplary model for examining molecular mechanisms responsible for extreme phenotypic variations, plumage color has garnered significant interest. The Cygnus genus features two species, Cygnus olor and Cygnus atratus, that exhibit striking disparities in plumage color. However, the molecular foundation for this differentiation has remained elusive. Herein, we present two high-quality genomes for C. olor and C. atratus, procured using the Illumina and Nanopore technologies. The assembled genome of C. olor was 1.12 Gb in size with a contig N50 of 26.82 Mb, while its counterpart was 1.13 Gb in size with a contig N50 of 21.91 Mb. A comparative analysis unveiled three genes (TYR, SLC45A2, and SLC7A11) with structural variants in the melanogenic pathway. Notably, we also identified a novel gene, PWWP domain containing 2A (PWWP2A), that is related to plumage color, for the first time. Using targeted gene modification analysis, we demonstrated the potential genetic effect of the PWWP2A variant on pigment gene expression and melanin production. Finally, our findings offer insight into the intricate pattern of pigmentation and the role of polygenes in birds. Furthermore, these two high-quality genome references provide a comprehensive resource and perspective for comparative functional and genetic studies of evolution within the Cygnus genus.
adaptMLLM: Fine-Tuning Multilingual Language Models on Low-Resource Languages with Integrated LLM Playgrounds
Authors: Lankford Séamus , Afli Haithem , Way Andy
Published: November 2023

The advent of Multilingual Language Models (MLLMs) and Large Language Models (LLMs) has spawned innovation in many areas of natural language processing. Despite the exciting potential of this technology, its impact on developing high-quality Machine Translation (MT) outputs for low-resource languages remains relatively under-explored. Furthermore, an open-source application, dedicated to both fine-tuning MLLMs and managing the complete MT workflow for low-resources languages, remains unavailable. We aim to address these imbalances through the development of adaptMLLM, which streamlines all processes involved in the fine-tuning of MLLMs for MT. This open-source application is tailored for developers, translators, and users who are engaged in MT. It is particularly useful for newcomers to the field, as it significantly streamlines the configuration of the development environment. An intuitive interface allows for easy customisation of hyperparameters, and the application offers a range of metrics for model evaluation and the capability to deploy models as a translation service directly within the application. As a multilingual tool, we used adaptMLLM to fine-tune models for two low-resource language pairs: English to Irish (EN↔ GA) and English to Marathi (EN↔MR). Compared with baselines from the LoResMT2021 Shared Task, the adaptMLLM system demonstrated significant improvements. In the EN→GA direction, an improvement of 5.2 BLEU points was observed and an increase of 40.5 BLEU points was recorded in the GA→EN direction representing relative improvements of 14% and 117%, respectively. Significant improvements in the translation performance of the EN↔MR pair were also observed notably in the MR→EN direction with an increase of 21.3 BLEU points which corresponds to a relative improvement of 68%. Finally, a fine-grained human evaluation of the MLLM output on the EN→GA pair was conducted using the Multidimensional Quality Metrics and Scalar Quality Metrics error taxonomies. The application and models are freely available.
Integrated Attack Tree in Residual Risk Management Framework
Authors: Khan Ahmed Nawaz , Bryans Jeremy , Sabaliauskaite Giedre , Jadidbonab Hesamaldin
Published: November 2023

Safety-critical cyber-physical systems (CPSs), such as high-tech cars having cyber capabilities, are highly interconnected. Automotive manufacturers are concerned about cyber attacks on vehicles that can lead to catastrophic consequences. There is a need for a new risk management approach to address and investigate cybersecurity risks. Risk management in the automotive domain is challenging due to technological improvements and advances every year. The current standard for automotive security is ISO/SAE 21434, which discusses a framework that includes threats, associated risks, and risk treatment options such as risk reduction by applying appropriate defences. This paper presents a residual cybersecurity risk management framework aligned with the framework presented in ISO/SAE 21434. A methodology is proposed to develop an integrated attack tree that considers multiple sub-systems within the CPS. Integrating attack trees in this way will help the analyst to take a broad perspective of system security. Our previous approach utilises a flow graph to calculate the residual risk to a system before and after applying defences. This paper is an extension of our initial work. It defines the steps for applying the proposed framework and using adaptive cruise control (ACC) and adaptive light control (ALC) to illustrate the applicability of our work. This work is evaluated by comparing it with the requirements of the risk management framework discussed in the literature. Currently, our methodology satisfies more than 75% of their requirements.
SGLT2 Inhibitors in Long COVID Syndrome: Is There a Potential Role?
Authors: Zimmermann Paul , Sourij Harald , Aberer Felix , Rilstone Sian , Schierbauer Janis , Moser Othmar
Published: November 2023

The coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 has turned into a pandemic causing a global public health crisis. While acute COVID-19 mainly affects the respiratory system and can cause acute respiratory distress syndrome, an association with persistent inflammatory stress affecting different organ systems has been elucidated in long COVID syndrome (LCS). Increased severity and mortality rates have been reported due to cardiophysiological and metabolic systemic disorders as well as multiorgan failure in COVID-19, additionally accompanied by chronic dyspnea and fatigue in LCS. Hence, novel therapies have been tested to improve the outcomes of LCS of which one potential candidate might be sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. The aim of this narrative review was to discuss rationales for investigating SGLT2 inhibitor therapy in people suffering from LCS. In this regard, we discuss their potential positive effects—next to the well described “cardio-renal-metabolic” conditions—with a focus on potential anti-inflammatory and beneficial systemic effects in LCS. However, potential beneficial as well as potential disadvantageous effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on the prevalence and long-term outcomes of COVID-19 will need to be established in ongoing research.
How Cardiac Fibrosis Assessed via T1 Mapping Is Associated with Liver Fibrosis in Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Terzi Flavia Vernin de Oliveira , Camargo Gabriel Cordeiro , Parente Daniella Braz , Pittella Ana Maria , Silva-Junior Gilberto , de Novaes Gabrielle Gonçalves , Oliveira Neto Jaime Araújo , Barroso Julia Machado , Pinheiro Martha Valéria Tavares , Xavier de Brito Adriana Soares , de Oliveira Renée Sarmento , Rodrigues Rosana Souza , de Mello Perez Renata , de Sousa Andréa Silvestre , Moll-Bernardes Renata Junqueira
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common chronic liver diseases worldwide. Although cardiovascular and NAFLD risk factors overlap, an independent association between these conditions may exist. Hepatic and cardiac fibrosis are important markers of mortality, but the correlation between these markers in patients with NAFLD has not been well studied. Our main objective was to determine the degree of myocardial fibrosis in patients with NAFLD and its correlation with the severity of liver fibrosis. (2) Methods: In this cross-sectional study, patients with NAFLD were allocated to two groups according to the stage of liver fibrosis assessed using MRI: no or mild fibrosis (F0–F1) and significant fibrosis (F2–F4). Framingham risk scores were calculated to evaluate cardiovascular risk factors, and patients underwent multiparametric cardiac and abdominal MRIs. (3) Results: The sample comprised 44 patients (28 with no or mild liver fibrosis and 16 with significant liver fibrosis). The mean age was 57.9 ± 12 years, and 41% were men. Most patients had high cardiac risk factors and carotid disease. Relative to patients with no or mild liver fibrosis, those with significant fibrosis had a higher median calcium score (p = 0.05) and increased myocardial extracellular volume (ECV; p = 0.02). Liver fibrosis correlated with cardiac fibrosis, represented by the ECV (r = 0.49, p < 0.001). The myocardial ECV differentiated patients with and without significant liver fibrosis (AUC = 0.78). (4) Conclusion: This study showed that diffuse myocardial fibrosis is associated with liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD.
REM Sleep Behavior Disorder and Cognitive Functions in Parkinson’s Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Marafioti Giulia , Corallo Francesco , Cardile Davide , Di Lorenzo Giuseppe , Quartarone Angelo , Lo Buono Viviana
Published: November 2023

Sleep disorders, such as REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) and excessive daytime sleepiness, are among the most common non-motor symptoms in subjects with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Sleep disorders have a major negative impact on the quality of life of patients and their caregivers. In addition, REM sleep behavior disorder is an important risk factor for cognitive impairment in PD. This systematic review was conducted on studies investigating the influence of RBD on cognitive performance in PD subjects. We searched the PubMed and Scopus databases, screened the references of the studies included, and reviewed articles for additional citations. From the first 244 publications, we included only 11 studies that met the search criteria. The results showed that sleep disorders in PD were associated with impaired executive functions, visual-constructive abilities, reduced attention, and episodic verbal memory, and could predict the possible risk of developing dementia.
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome in Asymptomatic COVID-19 Infection: A Case Report and a Literature Review
Authors: Ayoub Wissam Al Rida , Lizzeik Dina , Berro Jana , Faddoul Sami , El Dassouki Mohamad , Shatila Abdul Rahman , Chalah Moussa A. , Ayache Samar S.
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: COVID-19 infection has affected almost 6 million people worldwide. Geniculate Ganglion Zoster resulting in Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (RHS) has been rarely described in this context. (2) Methods: Here, a case of RHS in the context of asymptomatic COVID-19 infection is reported followed by a literature review of the previously published cases (PubMed research combining “COVID-19” and “Ramsay Hunt Syndrome” or their abbreviations/synonyms, searching for data published at any time till October 2023). (3) Results: Five cases have been previously published (age range: 25–67 years; n = 3 males). Three patients were known to be immunocompetent prior to infection, one was receiving corticotherapy for lung disease, and one had an unspecified immune status. RHS predominantly involved both facial and vestibulocochlear nerves, with one case exclusively involving the facial nerve as the presented case. Regarding facial nerve palsy, three were right-sided (like the current report) and two were left-sided. Two cases were asymptomatic to COVID-19 (like the present patient), one had mild fatigue, and two had classical COVID-19 symptoms preceding RHS symptoms. Workup included serological testing against Varicella Zoster Virus and PCR assays that can detect the viral DNA in saliva, blood, tears, exudates, and cerebrospinal fluid. The treatment combined antiviral and corticosteroid therapies which yielded heterogeneous outcomes that might be related to some demographic and clinical data. (4) Conclusions: RHS rarely occurs in the context of COVID-19. Early recognition is important. Management seems to be similar to the classical condition. Some data may help predict facial nerve recovery.
Vertebral Fractures in Pediatric Suicidal Jumpers: A Retrospective Study with Epidemiological and Clinical Analysis before and after the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Crostelli Marco , Mazza Osvaldo , Manfroni Francesca , Tundo Federico , Calogero Valeria , Mazza Marianna , Averna Roberto , Vicari Stefano
Published: November 2023

Background: From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, reports in the literature confirm a significant increase in suicide attempts in children and adolescents. At the Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital Emergency Department (Rome, Italy), there was a dramatic increase in suicidal jumpers. Many of these presented vertebral fractures. Methods: This retrospective study includes all suicidal jumpers with vertebral fractures treated from April 2017 to March 2023. We collected and compared data from three years before to three years after the pandemic, analyzing vertebral fractures. Results: From April 2019 to March 2020, 141 cases of suicide attempt arrived at the emergency department. Five of these were suicidal jumpers without vertebral fractures. From April 2020 to March 2023, 362 cases of suicide were hospitalized and 19 were suicidal jumpers; 12 reported vertebral fractures (mean age 14 years). Seven patients were treated by percutaneous pedicle fixation. Three patients needed an open spinal surgery by posterior approach. One case with cervical fractures was treated by Halo-Vest. Conclusions: This is the first report that shows a sharp increase in vertebral body fractures due to suicide jumping attempts in children and adolescents. This could be a new epidemiological phenomenon persisting or even increasing over time in the pediatric population as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Platelet Reduction after Aortic Bioprosthesis Implantation: Results from the PORTRAIT Study
Authors: Jiritano Federica , Serraino Giuseppe Filiberto , Di Mauro Michele , Borelli Massimo , Scrofani Roberto , Patanè Leonardo , Caporali Elena , Matteucci Matteo , Fina Dario , Kowalewski Mariusz , Pollari Francesco , Fischlein Theodor , Visicchio Giuseppe , Paparella Domenico , Falcetta Giosuè , Colli Andrea , Mastroroberto Pasquale , Cappabianca Giangiuseppe , Lorusso Roberto
Published: November 2023

Background: Platelet count reduction (PR) is a common but unclear phenomenon that occurs after aortic bioprosthesis valve implantation (bio-AVR). This study aimed to investigate the occurrence and clinical impact of PR in patients receiving stented, rapid deployment (RDV), or stentless bioprostheses. Methods: 1233 adult bio-AVR patients were enrolled. Platelet count variation, early post-operative adverse events, and in-hospital mortality were analysed. Results: 944 patients received a stented valve, an RDV was implanted in 218 patients, and 71 patients had a stentless bioprosthesis. In all groups, the platelet count at discharge was lower than the baseline values (p < 0.001). The percentage of PR was 27% in the stented group, 56% in the RDV group, and 55% in the stentless group. A higher platelet reduction, reaching the minimum platelet value, was observed in the RDV (mean: −30.84, standard error (SE): 5.91, p < 0.001) and stentless (mean: 22.54, SE: 9.10, p = 0.03) groups compared to the stented group. A greater PR occurred as the size of the bioprosthesis increased in RDV (p = 0.01), while platelet count variation was not directly proportional to the stented bioprosthesis size (p < 0.001). PR was not affected by cardiopulmonary bypass (mean: −0.00, SE: 0.001, p = 0.635) or cross-clamp (mean: −0.00, SE: 0.002, p = 0.051) times in any of the groups. RDV subjects experienced more in-hospital adverse events. PR was found to be associated with ischemic strokes in the overall population. Conclusions: Bio-AVR is associated with significant but transient PR. RDV patients more likely experience significant PR and related adverse clinical events. PR is associated with ischemic strokes, regardless of the bioprosthesis type.
Effect of Mobilization with Movement on Pain, Disability, and Range of Motion in Patients with Shoulder Pain and Movement Impairment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dias Daniela , Neto Mansueto Gomes , Sales Stephane da Silva Ribeiro , Cavalcante Bárbara dos Santos , Torrierri Palmiro , Roever Leonardo , Araújo Roberto Paulo Correia de
Published: November 2023

Background: Shoulder pain is a disabling musculoskeletal disorder worldwide. Thus, it is important to identify interventions able to improve pain and disability. Objective: To investigate the effects of mobilization with movement (MWM) on pain, disability, and range of motion in patients with shoulder pain and movement impairment. Methods: A systematic search of different databases was performed. The systematic review protocol has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023404128). A random-effects model for meta-analysis was used to determine the mean difference (MD), standardized mean differences (SMD), and 95% confidence interval for the outcome of interest. Results: Twenty-six studies were included. Of these, eighteen were included in the meta-analysis. MWM improved pain during movement with a moderate effect SMD of (−0.6; 95% confidence interval, −1.1 to −0.1, I2 = 0%; N = 66;) and shoulder abduction MD of (12.7°; 1.3 to 24.0; I2 = 73%; N = 90) compared to sham MWM in the short term (0–6 weeks). Combined MWM and conventional rehabilitation improved pain at rest, with a MD of (−1.2; −2.2 to −0.2; I2 = 61%; N = 100), and disability SMD of (−1.3; confidence interval −2.2 to −0.4; I2 = 87%; N = 185) compared to conventional rehabilitation alone in the short term. Combined MWM and conventional rehabilitation also resulted in improvement in shoulder abduction and external rotation. Compared to Maitland, MWM resulted in improvement in the shoulder abduction MD (20.4°; confidence interval 4.3 to 36.5; I2 = 89%; N = 130) in the short term. There is no information regarding long-term effects. Conclusion: Evidence suggests that MWM may reduce shoulder pain and restore shoulder range of motion and function. Our findings are promising, but the evidence is not strong enough to recommend it pragmatically.
Forging Treatment Realized the Isotropic Microstructure and Properties of Selective Laser Melting GH3536
Authors: Huang Shuai , Wang Tianyuan , Li Kai , Zhou Biao , Chen Bingqing , Zhang Xuejun
Published: November 2023

The anisotropy of mechanical properties in SLMed alloy is very important. In order to realize the homogeneity of the microstructure and mechanical properties of GH3536 alloy prepared by selective laser melting (SLM), the as-deposited samples were treated by hot isostatic pressing and then forged at different temperatures. The microstructure, grain size, room- and high- temperature tensile properties, and endurance properties of the samples were studied. The results showed that the microstructure of the sample was mainly equiaxed austenite phase, and granular carbides were precipitated inside the grains after forging treatment, resulting in the anisotropy of the sample almost disappearing. The grain boundary phase difference distribution was most concentrated at 60°. The grain size was less than 10 μm, and a large number of twins were formed. With the increase in forging temperature, the yield strength, tensile strength, and contraction of area of the samples changed little, and the properties parallel to the z-axis (parallel samples) and vertical to the z-axis (vertical samples) were almost the same. In particular, the yield strength, tensile strength, and contraction of area in the transverse and vertical samples were almost at the same level. Judging from the elongation after fracture and the contraction of area, the properties of the samples showed characteristics of anisotropy after a high temperature endurance test.
Powder-Mixed Micro-Electro-Discharge Machining-Induced Surface Modification of Titanium Alloy for Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Nauryz Nurlan , Omarov Salikh , Kenessova Ainur , Pham Tri T. , Talamona Didier , Perveen Asma
Published: November 2023

The powder-mixed electro-discharge machining (PM-EDM) technique has shown its advantages in forming surfaces and depositing elements on the machined surface. Moreover, using hydroxyapatite (HA) powder in PM-EDM enhances the biocompatibility of the implant’s surfaces. Ti-6Al-4V alloy has tremendous advantages in biocompatibility over other metallic biomaterials in bone replacement surgeries. However, the increasing demand for orthopedical implants is leading to a more significant number of implant surgeries, increasing the number of patients with failed implants. A significant portion of implant failures are due to bacterial inflammation. Despite that, there is a lack of current research investigating the antibacterial properties of Ti-6Al-4V alloys. This paper focuses on studying the performance of HA PMEDM on Ti-6Al-4V alloy and its effects on antibacterial properties. By changing the capacitance (1 nF, 10 nF and 100 nF), gap voltage (90 V, 100 V and 110 V) and HA powder concentration (0 g/L, 5 g/L and 10 g/L), machining performance metrics such as material removal rate (MRR), overcut, crater size and hardness were examined through the HA PM micro-EDM (PM-μ-EDM) technique. Furthermore, the surface roughness, contact angle, and antibacterial properties of HA PM micro-wire EDM (PM-μ-WEDM)-treated surfaces were evaluated. The antibacterial tests were conducted for Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis bacteria. The key results showed a correlation between the discharge energy and powder concentration with the antibacterial properties of the modified surfaces. The modified surfaces exhibited reduced biofilm formation under low discharge energy and a 0 g/L powder concentration, resulting in a 0.273 μm roughness. This pattern persisted with high discharge energy and a 10 g/L powder concentration, where the roughness measured 1.832 μm. Therefore, it is possible to optimize the antibacterial properties of the surface through its roughness.
Accumulation of Health-Promoting Compounds in Upland Black Rice by Interacting Mycorrhizal and Endophytic Fungi
Authors: Nacoon Sabaiporn , Seemakram Wasan , Gateta Thanawan , Theerakulpisut Piyada , Sanitchon Jirawat , Kuyper Thomas W. , Boonlue Sophon
Published: November 2023

There is an increasing interest in finding eco-friendly and safe approaches to increase agricultural productivity and deliver healthy foods. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and endophytic fungi (EPF) are important components of sustainable agriculture in view of their ability to increase productivity and various plant secondary metabolites with health-promoting effects. In a pot experiment, our main research question was to evaluate the additive and synergistic effects of an AMF and four root-endophytic fungi on plant performance and on the accumulation of health-promoting secondary compounds. Plant growth varied between the treatments with both single inoculants and co-inoculation of an AMF and four EPF strains. We found that inoculation with a single EPF positively affected the growth and biomass production of most of the plant-endophyte consortia examined. The introduction of AMF into this experiment (dual inoculation) had a beneficial effect on plant growth and yield. AMF, Rhizophagus variabilis KS-02 co-inoculated with EPF, Trichoderma zelobreve PBMP16 increased the highest biomass, exceeding the growth rate of non-inoculated plants. Co-inoculated R. variabilis KS-02 and T. zelobreve PBMP16 had significantly greater beneficial effects on almost all aspects of plant growth, photosynthesis-related parameters, and yield. It also promoted root growth quality and plant nutrient uptake. The phenolic compounds, anthocyanin, and antioxidant capacity in rice seeds harvested from plants co-inoculated with AMF and EPF were dramatically increased compared with those from non-inoculated plants. In conclusion, our results indicated that EPF and AMF contributed to symbiosis in Maled Phai cultivar and were coordinately involved in promoting plant growth performance under a pot trial.
Primary Care Provider Receptivity to Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test Use in Cancer Screening
Authors: Chambers Christopher V. , Leach William T. , Davis Kaitlyn , Myers Ronald E.
Published: November 2023

Multi-cancer early detection tests (MCEDs) are blood-based tests that detect biomarkers released or induced by cancer cells. If MCED tests are shown to be safe and effective in cancer screening, they are likely to be ordered and managed in primary care. To understand primary care providers’ support for and concerns about the implementation and management of MCED testing, the research team developed a cross-sectional survey that was sent to 939 primary care providers (physicians, residents/fellows, and advanced practice providers) in a large academic health system in the greater Philadelphia area. The survey included standard items used to assess provider background characteristics and to measure provider awareness of challenges related to MCED test use (7 items), perceived competence in MCED testing (5 items), and receptivity to MCED test use in the future (4 items). A total of 351 (37.4%) primary care providers completed the survey. Among respondents, the awareness of challenges in MCED testing (mean = 3.95, sd = 0.64), perceived competence (3.67, sd = 0.85), and receptivity to MCED use in practice (mean = 3.62, 0.75) were moderately high. Multiple regression was performed to identify factors associated with receptivity to MCED testing. We found that provider number of years in practice (DATA), awareness of challenges related to MCED testing (DATA), and perceived competence in MCED test use (DATA) were positively and significantly associated with receptivity to MCED test use in practice. An exploratory factor analysis extracted two components: receptivity to MCEDs and awareness of challenges. Surprisingly, these factors had a positive correlation (r = 0.124, p = 0.024). Providers’ perceived competence in using MCED tests and providers’ experience level were significantly associated with receptivity to MCED testing. While there was strong agreement with potential challenges to implementing MCEDs, PCPs were generally receptive to using MCEDs in cancer screening. Keeping PCPs updated on the evolving knowledge of MCEDs is likely critical to building receptivity to MCED testing.
Controlling Effects of Nanocomposite Sterilant ND-1 on the Growth of Wild Populations of Midday Gerbil (Meriones meridianus)
Authors: Bu Fan , Li Xin , Bai Junyuan , Sun Shanshan , Yan Haiwen , Zhang Haoting , Jin Yongling , Li Linlin , Zhang Rong , Shang Zhenghaoni , Yuan Shuai , Wu Xiaodong , Fu Heping
Published: November 2023

Grassland is not only an important part of the terrestrial ecosystem with multiple ecological functions, but also an important base for Chinese herdsmen to produce and live. However, the occurrence and spread of rodent infestation reduces the biodiversity and productivity of grassland ecosystems. It also severely threatens human life, health, and biosecurity through disease transmission. In this study, we explored the ability of the nanocomposite sterilant ND-1 to control grassland rodent populations. Semi-closed experimental and control plots were established in the desert area of Alashan, Inner Mongolia, China. In spring 2018, the nanocomposite sterile ND-1 (Nongda-1) was introduced once, and the control effect of ND-1 on the growth of the wild population of midday gerbils was measured for two years. We show that ND-1 significantly reduced the population of midday gerbils in the experimental area, with a negative population growth rate. In addition, in the second year, the ratio of female midday gerbils to sub-adults in the experimental area was significantly lower than that in the control area, which resulted in a significant difference in the sex ratio of midday gerbils. There were significantly fewer females than males, and the population growth of midday gerbils in the experimental area was significantly inhibited. ND-1 had no significant effect on the home range of midday gerbils, and sterile individuals continued to occupy the home range and consume resources. Therefore, ND-1 reduced the number of female midday gerbils during the breeding period and the sex ratio and population density and altered the age structure of the wild population. Additionally, competition between sterile and normal individuals had a significant control effect on the growth of wild populations. Our studies demonstrate the significance of ND-1 in the sustainable control of grassland rodent pests, with the potential for limiting grassland rodent damage in the future.
Novel Approach in Fracture Characterization of Soft Adhesive Materials Using Spiral Cracking Patterns
Authors: Behnia Behzad , Lukaszewski Matthew
Published: November 2023

A novel approach for the fracture characterization of soft adhesive materials using spiral cracking patterns is presented in this study. This research particularly focuses on hydrocarbon polymeric materials, such as asphalt binders. Ten different asphalt materials with distinct fracture characteristics were investigated. An innovative integrated experimental–computational framework coupling acoustic emissions (AE) approach in conjunction with a machine learning-based Digital Image Analysis (DIA) method was employed to precisely determine the crack geometry and characterize the material fracture behavior. Cylindrical-shaped samples (25 mm in diameter and 20 mm in height) bonded to a rigid substrate were employed as the testing specimens. A cooling rate of −1 °C/min was applied to produce the spiral cracks. Various image processing techniques and machine learning algorithms such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and regression were utilized in the DIA to automatically analyze the spiral patterns. A new parameter, “Spiral Cracking Energy (ESpiral)”, was introduced to assess the fracture performance of soft adhesives. The compact tension (CT) test was conducted at −20 °C with a loading rate of 0.2 mm/min to determine the material’s fracture energy (Gf). The embrittlement temperature (TEMB) of the material was measured by performing an AE test. This study explored the relationship between the spiral tightness parameter (“b”), ESpiral, Gf, and TEMB of the material. The findings of this study showed a strong positive correlation between the ESpiral and fracture energies of the asphalt materials. Furthermore, the results indicated that both the spiral tightness parameter (“b”) and the embrittlement temperature (TEMB) were negatively correlated with the ESpiral and Gf parameters.
Investigation on Three-Dimensional Void Mesostructures and Geometries in Porous Asphalt Mixture Based on Computed Tomography (CT) Images and Avizo
Authors: Jing Hualong , Dan Hancheng , Shan Hongyu , Liu Xu
Published: November 2023

To investigate the void mesostructure in porous asphalt mixtures (PA), computed tomography (CT) and Avizo were utilized to scan and reconstruct the three-dimensional (3D) void model of PA-16 specimens. The void mesostructure of the specimen was quantitatively characterized through the anisotropy evaluation index. The equivalent pore network model (PNM) was extracted using the medial axis method. Based on the PNM model, the topological structure of the specimen and the morphological characteristics of the connected pores were analyzed. The results showed that the void anisotropy evaluation method can reflect the microscopic morphology of voids in porous asphalt mixtures. The cross-sectional porosity of representative elementary volume (REV) is mainly distributed between 20% and 25%, and about 90% of the macropores have a diameter between 0.5 mm and 3 mm. The distribution of cross-sectional porosity is uneven along the REV height direction. As the smallest cross-section of the seepage path, the equivalent radius of the throat is mainly between 0.1 mm and 1.5 mm, which is much smaller than the equivalent radius of the pore. The topological structure of pores is quite different, and their coordination numbers are mainly concentrated within 18. The pores with coordination numbers 1 to 10 constitute the main body of the pores inside REV, accounting for over 98% of the total number of pores. In addition, the permeability calculation results show that there is a significant difference in the permeability of each axis of REV compared to the total permeability of the superpave gyratory compactor (SGC) specimen, which illustrates that the permeability distribution presents an obvious spatial anisotropy. This study effectively reveals the heterogeneity of the 3D void morphology of porous asphalt mixtures, and it provides a reference for a better understanding of the void flow rules in drainage pavements.
Exploring the Potential of Using Marine-Derived Ingredients: From the Extraction to Cutting-Edge Cosmetics
Authors: Costa João Pedro , Custódio Luísa , Reis Catarina Pinto
Published: November 2023

The growing understanding and knowledge of the potential of marine species, as well as the application of “blue biotechnology” have been motivating new innovative solutions in cosmetics. It is widely noted that that marine species are important sources of compounds with several biological activities that are yet to be discovered. This review explores various biological properties of marine-derived molecules and briefly outlines the main extraction methods. Alongside these, it is well known the legislative and normative framework of cosmetics is increasingly being developed. In this research segment, there is a growing concern with sustainability. In this sense, “blue biotechnology”, together with the use of invasive species or marine waste products to obtain new active ingredients, haven been emerging as innovative and sustainable solutions for the future’s cosmetics industry. This review also examines the regulatory framework and focus on the recent advancements in “blue biotechnology” and its relevance to the sustainable development of innovative cosmetics.
Assessing the Effects of Medical Information on Parental Self-Medication Behaviors for Children’s Health: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Tarciuc Petruța , Duduciuc Alina , Chirila Sergiu Ioachim , Herdea Valeria , Rosu Oana , Varga Andreea , Ioniuc Ileana , Diaconescu Smaranda
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Health professionals have voiced concerns about the danger of self-medication in times of growing use of over-the-counter medicines and, in some contexts, the unregulated selling of them. Previous research has examined the incidence of parental self-medication as well as the use and abuse of antibiotics without medical advice. However, these studies have limited evidence on the role of family doctors and the perceived severity of self-medication in the case of parents. Based on the Health Belief Model, our research tested the effects of exposure to medical information on the parents’ attitudes toward self-treating their children, without medical advice. Specifically, we aimed to assess whether exposure to information warning about the risks of treating children without a medical prescription influences parents’ attitudes toward administering medicines to their children without medical advice. Materials and Methods: 210 parents engaged in the study, and were divided into two groups. One group was exposed to educational materials related to the perils of self-medication and the second one was not. All participants answered the same questionnaire and the answers were compared between the two groups. Results: The results showed that our respondents evaluated the practices of self-medication negatively (a higher score indicates a more negative evaluation), especially when it came to treating their children without medical advice (3.91 ± 1.04 for unexposed and 3.98 ± 1.08 for exposed). However, their attitudes towards self-medication varied depending on their beliefs about administering certain medications. Both those exposed to the warning information and those who were not exposed have agreed that they are unable to avoid treatment of their ill child without medical advice. Conclusions: In general, our respondents evaluate negatively the practices of self-medication, especially the treatment of their children without medical advice. Therefore, future health education campaigns need to be targeted specifically, with messages that guide how to act in particular cases depending on the medication used and the child’s condition.
The Modern Environment: The New Secondary Cause of Hypertension?
Authors: Rossios Konstantinos , Antza Christina , Kachtsidis Vasileios , Kotsis Vasilios
Published: November 2023

The most important risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death worldwide, is hypertension. Although most cases of hypertension are thought to be essential, the multifactorial associations of the environmental influence on blood pressure seem to play an important role and should be more closely investigated. This review attempts to focus on the recent literature that examines the environmental effects on arterial blood pressure and its management. Seasonal variability and the role of ambient temperature, either occupational or recreational noise pollution, as well as obesity due to environment-caused dietary habits, are recognized as important risk factors, affecting the onset as well as the regulation of hypertension. Furthermore, the effects of seasonal fluctuations in blood pressure, noise pollution, and obesity seem to share a similar pathogenesis, and as such to all further react together, leading to increased blood pressure. The activation of the autonomous nervous system plays a key role and causes an increase in stress hormones that generates oxidative stress on the vascular system and, thus, vasoconstriction. In this review, by focusing on the association of the environmental impact with arterial blood pressure, we come to the question of whether most cases of hypertension—if not all—should, indeed, be considered primary or secondary.
Performance of a New Instrument for the Measurement of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity: The SLE-DAS
Authors: Koo Malcolm , Lu Ming-Chi
Published: November 2023

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease that affects multiple organ systems and manifests in a relapsing–remitting pattern. Consequently, it is paramount for rheumatologists to assess disease activity, identify flare-ups, and establish treatment goals for patients with SLE. In 2019, the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Score (SLE-DAS) was introduced as a novel tool for measuring disease activity. This tool refines the parameters of the established SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) to enhance the assessment process. This review aims to provide an introduction to the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Score (SLE-DAS) and summarizes research on its development, its comparison with existing disease activity measures, and its performance in clinical settings. Literature searches on PubMed using the keyword “SLE-DAS” were conducted, covering publications from March 2019 to September 2023. Studies that compared SLE-DAS with other SLE disease activity measurement tools were reviewed. Findings indicated that SLE-DAS consistently performs on par with, and sometimes better than, traditional measures in assessing clinically meaningful changes, patient improvement, disease activity, health-related quality of life, hospitalization rates, and disease flare-ups. The association between SLE-DAS and mortality rates among patients with SLE, however, remains to be further explored. Although SLE-DAS is a promising and potentially effective tool for measuring SLE disease activity, additional research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and broaden its clinical use.
Designing Quaternary and Quinary Refractory-Based High-Entropy Alloys: Statistical Analysis of Their Lattice Distortion, Mechanical, and Thermal Properties
Authors: San Saro , Hasan Sahib , Adhikari Puja , Ching Wai-Yim
Published: November 2023

The rapid evolution in materials science has resulted in a significant interest in high-entropy alloys (HEAs) for their unique properties. This study focuses on understanding both quaternary and quinary body-centered cubic (BCC) of 12 refractory-based HEAs, and on analysis of their electronic structures, lattice distortions, mechanical, and thermal properties. A comprehensive assessment is undertaken by means of density functional theory (DFT)-based first principles calculations. It is well known that multiple constituents lead to notable lattice distortions, especially in quinary HEAs. This distortion, in turn, has significant implications on the electronic structure that ultimately affect mechanical and thermal behaviors of these alloys such as ductility, lattice thermal conductivity, and toughness. Our in-depth analysis of their electronic structures revealed the role of valence electron concentration and its correlation with bond order and mechanical properties. Local lattice distortion (LD) was investigated for these 12 HEA models. M1 (WTiVZrHf), M7 (TiZrHfW), and M12 (TiZrHfVNb) have the highest LD whereas the models M3 (MoTaTiV), M5 (WTaCrV), M6 (MoNbTaW), and M9 (NbTaTiV) have the less LD. Furthermore, we investigated the thermal properties focusing on Debye temperature (ΘD), thermal conductivity (κ), Grüneisen parameter (γα), and dominant phonon wavelength (λdom). The NbTaTiV(M9) and TiVNbHf(M10) models have significantly reduced lattice thermal conductivities (κL). This reduction is due to the mass increase and strain fluctuations, which in turn signify lattice distortion. The findings not only provide an understanding of these promising materials but also offer guidance for the design of next-generation HEAs with properties tailored for potential specific applications.
Fatigue Estimation Using Inverse Stamping
Authors: Kašpar Jaromír , Bernardin Petr , Lašová Václava
Published: November 2023

Reverse engineering methods like 3D scanning are becoming common in engineering practice. These methods enable engineers to reproduce the original shape of a scanned part. If other properties are required, then other reverse engineering methods can follow. Estimation of fatigue is a tricky task even if the material properties of the base material are known. Fatigue is influenced not only by material properties and the part’s shape but also by technological processes. Fast fatigue life estimation of stamped parts using reverse engineering methods is the target of this paper. The forming process, which has a crucial impact on the fatigue of stamped parts, is considered via inverse stamping. Adaptation of inverse stamping method from shell FEM meshes to volumetric meshes is included. The article also discusses the application of two methods, the Material Law for Steel Sheets (MLSS) and the Method of Variable Slopes (MVS). These methods adjust the fatigue curve based on effective plastic strain calculated by inverse stamping. Calculated results were compared with experimental results. In most situations, there is a good agreement between the calculations and the tests of the specimens without surface coatings. Sometimes, the calculated results are more conservative than the experiments. This is acceptable in component design in terms of reliability. When a Zn-Ni surface coating was applied, the fatigue life of the specimen decreased.