bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Results About Some Chain Conditions in Serre Conjecture Rings
Authors: Al Subaiei Bana , Jarboui Noômen
Published: November 2024

Let φ:T→T/I be the natural homomorphism, where I is a nonzero ideal of an integral domain T. We define R:=φ−1(D), where D is a subring of T/I. This paper aims to investigate the conditions under which the Serre conjecture ring R⟨m⟩ is a strong S-domain. Several examples are constructed to demonstrate both the scope and limitations of the results.
Integrating Super-Resolution with Deep Learning for Enhanced Periodontal Bone Loss Segmentation in Panoramic Radiographs
Authors: Kong Vungsovanreach , Lee Eun Young , Kim Kyung Ah , Shon Ho Sun
Published: November 2024

Periodontal disease is a widespread global health concern that necessitates an accurate diagnosis for effective treatment. Traditional diagnostic methods based on panoramic radiographs are often limited by subjective evaluation and low-resolution imaging, leading to suboptimal precision. This study presents an approach that integrates Super-Resolution Generative Adversarial Networks (SRGANs) with deep learning-based segmentation models to enhance the segmentation of periodontal bone loss (PBL) areas on panoramic radiographs. By transforming low-resolution images into high-resolution versions, the proposed method reveals critical anatomical details that are essential for precise diagnostics. The effectiveness of this approach was validated using datasets from the Chungbuk National University Hospital and the Kaggle data portal, demonstrating significant improvements in both image resolution and segmentation accuracy. The SRGAN model, evaluated using the Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) and Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM) metrics, achieved a PSNR of 30.10 dB and an SSIM of 0.878, indicating high fidelity in image reconstruction. When applied to semantic segmentation using a U-Net architecture, the enhanced images resulted in a dice similarity coefficient (DSC) of 0.91 and an intersection over union (IoU) of 84.9%, compared with 0.72 DSC and 65.4% IoU for native low-resolution images. These results underscore the potential of SRGAN-enhanced imaging to improve PBL area segmentation and suggest broader applications in medical imaging, where enhanced image clarity is crucial for diagnostic accuracy. This study also highlights the importance of further research to expand the dataset diversity and incorporate clinical validation to fully realize the benefits of super-resolution techniques in medical diagnostics.
Commemorative 10th Anniversary Issue of Bioengineering: Perspectives in Bioengineering
Authors: Guiseppi-Elie Anthony
Published: November 2024

In 2014, as the Founding Editor-in-Chief, I welcomed you to the first issue of a new open access MDPI journal, Bioengineering [...]
Mechanistic Investigation of the Pyrolysis Temperature of Reed Wood Vinegar for Maximising the Antibacterial Activity of Escherichia coli and Its Inhibitory Activity
Authors: Bai Bing , Wang Meihui , Zhang Zhongguo , Guo Qingyun , Yao Jingjing
Published: November 2024

To solve the problem of large-scale growth of wetland reeds, wood vinegar, a by-product of pyrolysed reed wood vinegar, can be used as a natural antimicrobial agent. In this study, we compare the changes in growth and bacterial morphology of Escherichia coli (E. coli) treated with reed wood vinegar at different pyrolysis temperatures (300 °C, 500 °C and 700 °C) and reveal the bacterial inhibition mechanism of reed wood vinegar by RNA-Seq. The results of bacteria inhibitory activity showed that 1/2MIC 500 °C wood vinegar had the most prominent bacteria inhibitory activity. qPCR results showed that reed wood vinegar was able to significantly inhibit the expression of E. coli biofilm and genes related to the cell membrane transporter proteins. Electron microscopy observed that the wood vinegar disrupted the cellular morphology of E. coli, resulting in the crumpling of E. coli cell membranes. RNA-Seq showed the multifaceted antimicrobial effects of wood vinegar and demonstrated that the inhibitory effect of wood vinegar on E. coli was mainly realized through the inhibition of the expression of malE, which is an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter complex of E. coli. In conclusion, our study provides an effective method and a theoretical basis for the mechanism of reed wood vinegar as a natural antimicrobial agent and its pathway of bacterial inhibition.
Chorus Organization in a Neotropical Forest Cicada
Authors: Beauchamp Guy
Published: November 2024

In many species of animals, males aggregate in particular locations and produce calls to attract searching females for reproduction. One striking feature of such choruses is synchronization. On a scale of hours, choruses are often concentrated at particular times of day, such as dawn or dusk. On a scale of seconds, males may also synchronize the rhythm of their calls with one another. While synchronized calling at this scale suggests benefits acting at the collective level, competitive interactions between males to attract females can also lead to synchronized calling as an epiphenomenon. Why males in some species synchronize the rhythm of their calls is still debated, and more work is needed to understand the evolution of this behavior. I investigated chorus organization in the Emerald cicada (Zammara smaragdula), a Neotropical forest cicada in southern Belize, to explore these issues. Choruses in this species occurred at dawn and dusk and, occasionally, during daytime. There was no evidence for synchronization in the rhythm of calls among males, as bouts of collective calling occurred after quiet intervals of variable rather than fixed durations. The temporal aggregation of calls in this species thus probably emerged from competitive interactions among males to attract females. The degree of temporal overlap in the calls of males during a chorus varied as a function of chorus phase and time of day, suggesting flexibility in chorus organization, perhaps in relation to temporal variations in factors such as the number of calling cicadas, the number of predators present or ambient temperature during a chorus.
Assessment of Prenatal Transportation Stress and Sex on Gene Expression Within the Amygdala of Brahman Calves
Authors: Baker Emilie C. , Riley David G. , Cardoso Rodolfo C. , Hairgrove Thomas B. , Long Charles R. , Randel Ronald D. , Welsh Thomas H.
Published: November 2024

As the amygdala is associated with fear and anxiety, it is important to determine the potential effects of gestational stressors on behavior and stress responses in offspring. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of prenatal transportation stress on amygdala gene expression in 25-day-old Brahman calves, focusing on sex-specific differences. Amygdala tissue samples from prenatally stressed (PNS) and control bull and heifer calves were analyzed using RNA sequencing. A thorough outlier detection process, utilizing visual inspection of multidimensional scaling plots, robust principal component analysis, and PCAGrid methods, led to the exclusion of 5 of 32 samples from subsequent analyses. Differential expression analysis revealed no significant treatment differences between the control and PNS groups within either sex. However, sex-specific differences in gene expression were identified in both the control and PNS groups. The control group showed seven differentially expressed genes between sexes, while ten were identified between PNS males and females, with seven located on the X chromosome. Among these was the ubiquitin-specific peptidase 9 X-linked gene, which plays a role in neurodevelopmental pathways. When comparing males to females, regardless of treatment, a total of 58 genes were differentially expressed, with 45 showing increased expression in females. Gene enrichment analysis indicated that many differentially expressed genes are associated with infectious disease-related pathways. Future research should explore amygdala size and functional responses to various postnatal stimuli.
Morphology of Cortical Microglia in the Hyperacute Phase of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Lyubomudrov Maksim , Babkina Anastasiya , Tsokolaeva Zoya , Yadgarov Mikhail , Shigeev Sergey , Sundukov Dmitriy , Golubev Arkady
Published: November 2024

Hemorrhagic stroke is the deadliest type of stroke. Cellular and molecular biomarkers are important for understanding the pathophysiology of stroke. Microglia are among the most promising biological markers. However, the morphological and physiological characteristics of microglia, as well as the structural and functional aspects of their interactions with neurons and other cells, are largely unknown. Due to the large number of different morphological phenotypes and very limited information on microglial changes in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), we performed this study aimed at identifying the features of the distribution of various microglial phenotypes in the layers of the cerebral cortex in the hyperacute phase of non-traumatic SAH. We studied the distribution of various microglial phenotypes in the layers of the cerebral cortex of SAH non-survivors with a control group (coronary heart disease and sudden cardiac death were the underlying causes of death). An immunohistochemical study using antibodies to iba-1 (a marker of microglia) revealed changes in the morphological phenotypes of microglia in the cerebral cortex after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Significant differences between the groups indicate a rapid microglial response to injury. The findings indicate that there are quantitative and phenotypic changes in microglia in the cerebral cortex during early SAH in the human cortex.
Organoids as Tools for Investigating Skin Aging: Mechanisms, Applications, and Insights
Authors: Wang Xin-Yu , Jia Qian-Nan , Li Jun , Zheng He-Yi
Published: November 2024

Organoids have emerged as transformative tools in biomedical research, renowned for their ability to replicate the complexity construct of human tissues. Skin aging is a multifaceted biological process, influenced by both intrinsic factors and extrinsic factors. Traditional models for studying skin aging often fall short in capturing the intricate dynamics of human skin. In contrast, skin organoids offer a more physiologically relevant system, reflecting the structural and functional characteristics of native skin. These characteristics make skin organoids highly suitable for studying the mechanisms of skin aging, identifying novel therapeutic targets, and testing anti-aging interventions. Despite their promise, challenges such as limited scalability, reproducibility, and ethical considerations remain. Addressing these hurdles through interdisciplinary research and technological advancements will be essential to maximizing the potential of skin organoids for dermatological research and personalized anti-aging therapies.
Identifying Common Genetic Etiologies Between Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Related Immune-Mediated Diseases
Authors: Liu Xianqiang , Li Dingchang , Zhang Yue , Liu Hao , Chen Peng , Zhao Yingjie , Ruscitti Piero , Zhao Wen , Dong Guanglong
Published: November 2024

Background: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have an increased risk of developing immune-mediated diseases. However, the genetic basis of IBD is complex, and an integrated approach should be used to elucidate the complex genetic relationship between IBD and immune-mediated diseases. Methods: The genetic relationship between IBD and 16 immune-mediated diseases was examined using linkage disequilibrium score regression. GWAS data were synthesized from two IBD databases using the METAL, and multi-trait analysis of genome-wide association studies was performed to enhance statistical robustness and identify novel genetic associations. Independent risk loci were meticulously examined using conditional and joint genome-wide multi-trait analysis, multi-marker analysis of genomic annotation, and functional mapping and annotation of significant genetic loci, integrating the information of quantitative trait loci and different methodologies to identify risk-related genes and proteins. Results: The results revealed four immune-mediated diseases (AS, psoriasis, iridocyclitis, and PsA) with a significant relationship with IBD. The multi-trait analysis revealed 909 gene loci of statistical significance. Of these loci, 28 genetic variants were closely related to IBD, and 7 single-nucleotide polymorphisms represented novel independent risk loci. In addition, 14 genes and 514 proteins were found to be associated with susceptibility to immune-mediated diseases. Notably, IL1RL1 emerged as a key player, present within pleiotropic genes across multiple protein databases, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target. Conclusions: This study suggests that the common polygenic determinants between IBD and immune-mediated diseases are widely distributed across the genome. The findings not only support a shared genetic relationship between IBD and immune-mediated diseases but also provide novel therapeutic targets for these diseases.
Effect of SARS-CoV-2 Infection on Selected Parameters of the Apelinergic System in Repeat Blood Donors
Authors: Stanek Marta , Leśków Anna , Diakowska Dorota
Published: November 2024

Background: SARS-CoV-2 enters cells primarily by binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, thereby blocking its physiological functions, affecting the apelinergic system, and inhibiting the cleavage of its peptides. The appropriate concentration of peptides in the apelinergic system influences the maintenance of homeostasis and protects against cardiovascular diseases. In our research, we determined the level of selected parameters of the apelinergic system—apelin (AP), elabela (ELA), and the apelin receptor (APJ)—in repeat blood donors. Methods: We analyzed 120 serum samples obtained from 30 repeat donors (study group) within four time periods after a SARS-CoV-2 infection: <60 days, 61–90 days, 91–120 days, and >120 days. We compared the results from the study groups with those of the control group, which consisted of 30 serum samples collected from donors donating blood in the years 2018–2019. Results: We observed that the AP, ELA, and APJ concentrations in the control group are higher than in any period in the study group. In the study group, the concentrations of AP and ELA increased in subsequent study periods. AP and ELA concentrations were lower shortly after SARS-CoV-2 transfection and then slowly increased in subsequent periods. APJ concentrations, on the other hand, were lowest at 61–90 days after the infection, but the decrease, relative to their level in healthy subjects, was significant in every period studied. Conclusions: The results suggest that infection with SARS-CoV-2 causes changes in the parameters of the apelinergic system, both after a short period of time has passed since the onset of the SARS-CoV-2 infection, and even up to 4 months after the infection.
Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Gestational Hypertensive Disorders in a Cohort of Romanian Pregnant Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mihai Muntean , Vladut Săsăran , Lucian Pop Gheorghe , Irina Muntean Elena , Victoria Nyulas , Claudiu Mărginean
Published: November 2024

Objective: This study aimed to explore whether subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) treated with levothyroxine in pregnancy complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with an increased risk of gestational hypertensive disorders (GHDs) (gestational hypertension and preeclampsia). Methods: 96 pregnant women with GDM were enrolled in this study and grouped as per the European Thyroid Association criteria into the SCH (n = 21) and euthyroid groups (n = 75). All subjects were tested for anthropometric parameters, maternal glucose homeostasis parameters, lipid levels, thyroid function tests, and blood pressure. All GDM pregnant women received nutritional and insulin therapy where needed, and the SCH group received levothyroxine treatment. Then, the maternal and newborn outcomes were compared. Data were analyzed using Student’s t-test, Mann–Whitney U, and Chi-square tests wherever applicable. p values of <0.05 were considered significant. Results: Patients with GDM and SCH had a pre-pregnancy BMI and BMI at inclusion in the study smaller than those of the euthyroid group (p = 0.0004, p = 0.0009). There were no significant differences between groups regarding the incidence of GHD, preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROMs), macrosomia, low birth weight, and fetal distress (p > 0.05). Patients with GDM and SCH treated with levothyroxine had more premature delivery than the euthyroid group (p = 0.03). Conclusions: Subclinical hypothyroidism treated with levothyroxine in women with GDM does not increase the risk of gestational hypertensive disorders, but is associated with increased risk for prematurity.
Heart Failure: A Deficiency of Energy—A Path Yet to Discover and Walk
Authors: Paraskevaidis Ioannis , Kourek Christos , Farmakis Dimitrios , Tsougos Elias
Published: November 2024

Heart failure is a complex syndrome and our understanding and therapeutic approach relies mostly on its phenotypic presentation. Notably, the heart is characterized as the most energy-consuming organ, being both a producer and consumer, in order to satisfy multiple cardiac functions: ion exchange, electromechanical coordination, excitation–contraction coupling, etc. By obtaining further knowledge of the cardiac energy field, we can probably better characterize the basic pathophysiological events occurring in heart disease patients and understand the metabolic substance changes, the relationship between the alteration of energy production/consumption, and hence energetic deficiency not only in the heart as a whole but in every single cardiac territory, which will hopefully provide us with the opportunity to uncover the beginning of the heart failure process. In this respect, using (a) newer imaging techniques, (b) biomedicine, (c) nanotechnology, and (d) artificial intelligence, we can gain a deeper understanding of this complex syndrome. This, in turn, can lead to earlier and more effective therapeutic approaches, ultimately improving human health. To date, the scientific community has not given sufficient attention to the energetic starvation model. In our view, this review aims to encourage scientists and the medical community to conduct studies for a better understanding and treatment of this syndrome.
A New Multi-Axial Functional Stress Analysis Assessing the Longevity of a Ti-6Al-4V Dental Implant Abutment Screw
Authors: Naguib Ghada H. , Abougazia Ahmed O. , Al-Turki Lulwa E. , Mously Hisham A. , Hashem Abou Bakr Hossam , Mira Abdulghani I. , Qutub Osama A. , Binmahfooz Abdulelah M. , Almabadi Afaf A. , Hamed Mohamed T.
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the impact of tightening torque (preload) and the friction coefficient on stress generation and fatigue resistance of a Ti-6Al-4V abutment screw with an internal hexagonal connection under dynamic multi-axial masticatory loads in high-cycle fatigue (HCF) conditions. A three-dimensional model of the implant–abutment assembly was simulated using ANSYS Workbench 16.2 computer aided engineering software with chewing forces ranging from 300 N to 1000 N, evaluated over 1.35 × 107 cycles, simulating 15 years of service. Results indicate that the healthy range of normal to maximal mastication forces (300–550 N) preserved the screw’s structural integrity, while higher loads (≥800 N) exceeded the Ti-6Al-4V alloy’s yield strength, indicating a risk of plastic deformation under extreme conditions. Stress peaked near the end of the occluding phase (206.5 ms), marking a critical temporal point for fatigue accumulation. Optimizing the friction coefficient (0.5 µ) and preload management improved stress distribution, minimized fatigue damage, and ensured joint stability. Masticatory forces up to 550 N were well within the abutment screw’s capacity to sustain extended service life and maintain its elastic behavior.
Advances in Bioceramics for Bone Regeneration: A Narrative Review
Authors: Brochu Baylee M. , Sturm Savanah R. , Kawase De Queiroz Goncalves Joao Arthur , Mirsky Nicholas A. , Sandino Adriana I. , Panthaki Kayaan Zubin , Panthaki Karl Zubin , Nayak Vasudev Vivekanand , Daunert Sylvia , Witek Lukasz , Coelho Paulo G.
Published: November 2024

Large osseous defects resulting from trauma, tumor resection, or fracture render the inherent ability of the body to repair inadequate and necessitate the use of bone grafts to facilitate the recovery of both form and function of the bony defect sites. In the United States alone, a large number of bone graft procedures are performed yearly, making it an essential area of investigation and research. Synthetic grafts represent a potential alterative to autografts due to their patient-specific customizability, but currently lack widespread acceptance in the clinical space. Early in their development, non-autologous bone grafts composed of metals such as stainless steel and titanium alloys were favorable due to their biocompatibility, resistance to corrosion, mechanical strength, and durability. However, since their inception, bioceramics have also evolved as viable alternatives. This review aims to present an overview of the fundamental prerequisites for tissue engineering devices using bioceramics as well as to provide a comprehensive account of their historical usage and significant advancements over time. This review includes a summary of commonly used manufacturing techniques and an evaluation of their use as drug carriers and bioactive coatings—for therapeutic ion/drug release, and potential avenues to further enhance hard tissue regeneration.
Avian Responses to Different Grazing Management Practices in Neotropical Temperate Grasslands: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Niklison Facundo , Bilenca David , Codesido Mariano
Published: November 2024

Bird populations inhabiting the Rio de la Plata Grasslands in southern Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay are known to be affected by livestock grazing practices. Cattle grazing can lead to changes in bird assemblages by affecting the heterogeneity of vegetation structures. We conducted a meta-analysis using studies that reported bird richness and abundance under different grazing management practices. We compared ranches under continuous grazing management (control, CGM) to (1) ranches under technological inputs management (TIM, herbicides and exotic pastures) and (2) ranches under ecological process-based management (EPM), which include ranches that utilise controlled and rotational grazing. We used random effects multilevel linear models to evaluate grazing regimen impacts. Our results indicate a negative impact of TIM on both bird abundance and richness (mean ± SE: −0.25 ± 0.07 and −0.92 ± 0.10, respectively) since the use of inputs simplifies vegetation structure and results in the loss of ecological niches. Compared to CGM, the influence of EPM on total bird abundance appears to be more dependent on grassland height, as evidenced by a decline in short grasses and increase in tall grasses. Our meta-analysis suggests that EPM practices may be beneficial for the conservation of endangered tall-grass birds.
Clinical Presentations and Treatment Approaches in a Retrospective Analysis of 128 Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformation Cases
Authors: Toader Corneliu , Radoi Mugurel Petrinel , Ilie Milena-Monica , Covache-Busuioc Razvan-Adrian , Buica Vlad , Glavan Luca-Andrei , Covlea Christian-Adelin , Corlatescu Antonio Daniel , Costin Horia-Petre , Crivoi Carla , Danaila Leon
Published: November 2024

Background: Intracranial AVMs are a highly heterogeneous group of lesions that, while not very common, can pose significant risks. The therapeutic management of AVMs is complicated by ambiguous guidelines, particularly regarding which Spetzler–Martin grades should dictate specific treatment options. This study analyzed the clinical presentations and treatment approaches of 128 brain AVM cases managed between 2014 and 2022 at the National Institute of Neurology and Neurovascular Diseases in Bucharest, Romania. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patient demographics, clinical symptoms, Spetzler–Martin categorization, nidus localization, therapeutic management, and outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed using Python 3.10. Results: In our cohort of patients, the median age was 45 years, with a slight male predominance (67 males, 61 females). At admission, 51.5% presented with elevated blood pressure. The majority of patients had a Spetzler–Martin score of 2 (37.5%), followed by scores of 3 (31.3%) and 1 (20.3%). Treatment strategies included microsurgical resection in 32% of cases, conservative management in 31.2%, Gamma Knife radiosurgery in 22.6%, and endovascular embolization in 13.3%. Notably, open surgery was predominantly chosen for Grade II AVMs. The functional outcomes were favorable, with 69.5% achieving a good recovery score on the Glasgow Outcome Scale. Only four in-hospital deaths occurred, all in patients who underwent open surgery, and no deaths were recorded during the two-year follow-up. Conclusions: AVMs within the same Spetzler–Martin grade display considerable complexity, necessitating personalized treatment strategies. Our findings highlight the limitations of open surgery for Grade I cases but affirm its effectiveness for Grade II AVMs.
Young Bedouin-Arab Men’s Ego and Pride: Do Traditional Masculinity and Positive Attitudes Toward Polygyny Shape Responses to a Wife’s Refusal?
Authors: Besser Avi , Zeigler-Hill Virgil , Alhuzail Nuzha Allassad
Published: November 2024

Cultural traditions in Israel’s Bedouin-Arab community encourage and permit men to take up to four wives, a practice supported by Islamic teachings. Despite legal prohibitions against polygyny in Israel, such marriages remain common and have profound effects on women, children, and broader society. This study explores how traditional notions of masculinity and positive attitudes toward polygyny influence young Bedouin men’s reactions to a hypothetical scenario in which their wife refuses to accept a polygynous marriage as a threat to men’s ego and pride. The sample consisted of 459 young, unmarried Israeli Bedouin-Arab men, aged 16 to 25, a demographic frequently under family pressure to marry, making the issue of marriage highly relevant. We hypothesized that traditional masculinity and favorable attitudes toward polygyny would be positively associated with heightened perceptions of ego and pride threats in response to a wife’s refusal. Participants were randomly assigned to imagine either their wife refusing a polygynous arrangement (n = 228) or accepting a polygynous arrangement (n = 231) and then reporting their anticipated emotional responses. The results showed that traditional masculinity was linked to positive attitudes toward polygyny, and both were significantly associated with increased perceptions of ego and pride threats in the refusal scenario but not in the acceptance scenario. The findings suggest that men with strong masculine identities and favorable views of polygyny are especially vulnerable to feeling threatened by a wife’s refusal. This supports social construction theory and underscores the role of cultural norms in shaping emotional responses. The discussion highlights the psychological impacts of polygyny in patriarchal societies and calls for culturally sensitive interventions that challenge traditional norms while fostering psychological resilience and gender equality.
Can Friendship Quality Buffer the Impact of Parental Phubbing on Adolescents’ Gratitude? The Longitudinal Mediating Role of Basic Psychological Needs’ Satisfaction
Authors: Lu Bowen , Shen Xinyuan , Gai Xiaosong , Xie Xiaochun
Published: November 2024

This study aims to explore the longitudinal relationship between parental phubbing and adolescents’ gratitude, as well as the mediating role of basic psychological needs’ satisfaction and the moderating role of friendship quality. We conducted this longitudinal study in two waves with a 7-month, and surveyed 643 Chinese adolescents and constructed a moderated mediation model. The results indicated the following: First, there is a significant negative correlation between parental phubbing and adolescents’ gratitude. Second, adolescents’ basic psychological needs’ satisfaction mediates the relationship between parental phubbing and gratitude. Finally, friendship quality moderates the negative relationship between parental phubbing and adolescents’ basic psychological needs’ satisfaction and the mediating effect of basic psychological needs’ satisfaction. Specifically, compared to adolescents with lower friendship quality, the negative effect of parental phubbing on basic psychological needs’ satisfaction is stronger among adolescents with higher friendship quality, and the negative indirect effect of parental phubbing on gratitude through basic psychological needs’ satisfaction is also stronger in these adolescents. The findings suggest that parental phubbing is a significant risk factor for decreased adolescents’ gratitude, with high friendship quality adolescents being more susceptible to the impact of parental phubbing. The negative impact of parental phubbing outweighs the influence of friendship quality. This study provides insights into interventions promoting adolescents’ positive development.
Influence of Urban Morphologies on the Effective Mean Age of Air at Pedestrian Level and Mass Transport Within Urban Canopy Layer
Authors: Lin Yuanyuan , Cehlin Mathias , Ameen Arman , Sandberg Mats , Wallhagen Marita
Published: November 2024

This study adapted the mean age of air, a time scale widely utilized in evaluating indoor ventilation, to assess the impact of building layouts on urban ventilation capacity. To distinguish it from its applications in enclosed indoor environments, the adapted index was termed the effective mean age of air (τ¯E). Based on an experimentally validated method, computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations were performed for parametric studies on four generic parameters that describe urban morphologies, including building height, building density, and variations in the heights or frontal areas of adjacent buildings. At the breathing level (z = 1.7 m), the results indicated three distinct distribution patterns of insufficiently ventilated areas: within recirculation zones behind buildings, in the downstream sections of the main road, or within recirculation zones near lateral facades. The spatial heterogeneity of ventilation capacity was emphasized through the statistical distributions of τ¯E. In most cases, convective transport dominates the purging process for the whole canopy zone, while turbulent transport prevails for the pedestrian zone. Additionally, comparisons with a reference case simulating an open area highlighted the dual effects of buildings on urban ventilation, notably through the enhanced dilution promoted by the helical flows between buildings. This study also serves as a preliminary CFD practice utilizing τ¯E with the homogenous emission method, and demonstrates its capability for assessing urban ventilation potential in urban planning.
Finite Element Modeling and Artificial Neural Network Analyses on the Flexural Capacity of Concrete T-Beams Reinforced with Prestressed Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Strands and Non-Prestressed Steel Rebars
Authors: Wang Hai-Tao , Liu Xian-Jie , Bai Jie , Yang Yan , Xu Guo-Wen , Chen Min-Sheng
Published: November 2024

The use of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) strands as prestressed reinforcement in prestressed concrete (PC) structures offers an effective solution to the corrosion issues associated with prestressed steel strands. In this study, the flexural behavior of PC beams reinforced with prestressed CFRP strands and non-prestressed steel rebars was investigated using finite element modeling (FEM) and artificial neural network (ANN) methods. First, three-dimensional nonlinear FE models were developed. The FE results indicated that the predicted failure mode, load-deflection curve, and ultimate load agreed well with the previous test results. Variations in prestress level, concrete strength, and steel reinforcement ratio shifted the failure mode from concrete crushing to CFRP strand fracture. While the ultimate load generally increased with a higher prestressed level, an excessively high prestress level reduced the ultimate load due to premature fracture of CFRP strands. An increase in concrete strength and steel reinforcement ratio also contributed to a rise in the ultimate load. Subsequently, the verified FE models were utilized to create a database for training the back propagation ANN (BP-ANN) model. The ultimate moments of the experimental specimens were predicted using the trained model. The results showed the correlation coefficients for both the training and test datasets were approximately 0.99, and the maximum error between the predicted and test ultimate moments was around 8%, demonstrating that the BP-ANN method is an effective tool for accurately predicting the ultimate capacity of this type of PC beam.
Study on the Effect of Heat Transfer Characteristics of Energy Piles
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Xu Tongyu , Zhao Kaiming , Xia Yueqiu , Duan Yuechen , Gao Weijun , Kong Gangqiang
Published: November 2024

The thermal performance of energy piles equipped with new metal fins to improve heat transmission is examined in this research. The solid heat transfer module of COMSOL Multiphysics was used to create a 2D numerical model of the energy pile, utilizing the energy pile at a field test site in Nanjing as an example. By contrasting the experimental data, the COMSOL Multiphysics model’s correctness was confirmed. After that, a new kind of energy pile fin was created to improve the heat transfer of the pile. The impact of the new fin type on the energy pile’s heat transfer efficiency was assessed, and the temperature change within the soil surrounding the pile before and after the fin was set was examined by contrasting the parameters of pipe configuration, buried pipe depth, and concrete thermal conductivity. The results indicate that after setting the fins to run for 336 h, the temperature of the concrete area increases by 10.8% to 12.3%, and the temperature of the region surrounding the pile increases by 5.3% to 8.7% when the tube diameter is chosen to be between 20 and 40 mm; The fins maximize the heat transfer temperature between the surrounding soil and the concrete, and as the tube diameter increases, the temperature drops. For 336 h of pile operation, the temperature of the concrete may be raised by 10.8% to 12.3% after the fins are set, and the temperature around the pile can be raised by 5.3% to 8.7%. The heat transmission efficiency of the energy pile can be improved by raising the temperature of the soil surrounding the pile through an increase in the concrete’s thermal conductivity; however, the degree of improvement diminishes as the conductivity rises. It is intended that this study will offer insightful information on the best way to design energy pile heat transfer efficiency.
Evaluation of Instructor Capability: Perspective from Building Information Modeling Competition Students in Mainland China
Authors: Pan Pengcheng , Li Maoyuan , Li Chenshuo , Zong Xuemeng
Published: November 2024

Building information modelling (BIM) technology, which has experienced rapid development, has become the focus of digital education learning in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) related disciplines. However, BIM education is still confronted with the disconnection between theoretical education and engineering practice. In mainland China, BIM competitions are an important digital platform for higher education practice teaching. As the organizer and leader of student participants, BIM instructors, especially their BIM capability, have an important impact on digital education. Previous research on BIM capability did not involve the field of BIM education, and the existing BIM capability framework is not entirely applicable to evaluating the BIM capability of instructors. Semi-structured interviews based on grounded theory (GT) and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to construct a five-dimensional model containing 23 capability indicators. The research findings highlighted the multi-dimensional nature of BIM capability for instructors and indicated that personnel capability was the most important for instructors, while process capability was considered the most dispensable. This is significantly different from the emphasis on technical and process capability in BIM capability research in the traditional AEC industry. It was also found that students from different levels of universities and different educational backgrounds had different demands for the BIM capability of instructors. The results of this study will help universities select excellent instructors, improve the quality of BIM education in universities, and cultivate more outstanding BIM talents for the development of BIM in the AEC industry, thereby promoting the digital practice of BIM education in universities.
The Efficacy of a Lower Dose of Everolimus in Patients with Advanced Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Taboada Rodrigo G. , Brito Angelo B. , Silva Ana Luiza , Weschenfelder Rui F. , Riechelmann Rachel P.
Published: November 2024

Background: Everolimus at 10 mg daily is approved to treat patients with advanced grade 1/2 neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), although it may lead to significant toxicity. Grade 3 or higher drug-related adverse events and drug discontinuation occur in approximately one-fourth of cases. However, phase I trials have demonstrated that doses from 5 mg daily efficiently inhibit NET cell signaling. Objectives and Methods: This multicenter retrospective study compared the time to treatment failure (TTF) in patients with NETs who received a mean daily dose of 7–10 mg (higher dose [HD]) or ≤6 mg (lower dose [LD]) of everolimus. Results: Ninety-two patients were included: 74 (80%) in the HD group and 18 (20%) in the LD group. At a median follow-up of 4.2 years, the median time to treatment failure (TTF) was 9.2 months for the HD and 7.2 months for the LD groups (p = 0.85). The TTF did not significantly differ between the LD and the HD groups (HR: 1.24; 95% CI: 0.68–2.25; p = 0.47), even after adjusting for age at treatment initiation, the NET grade, and the treatment line. Conclusion: Everolimus doses from 5 to 6 mg/day seem to be equally as effective as higher doses, but lower doses are potentially associated with less toxicity and lower costs. These findings support validation through a randomized clinical trial.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Activity of MoS2 Nanostructures Prepared Using Nonionic Surfactant
Authors: Al-Amer Kawther , Laradhi Shroq S. , Aleithan Shrouq H. , Abd El-Lateef Hany M.
Published: November 2024

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) has garnered significant interest as an auspicious catalytic material for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Here, MoS2 nanostructures are synthesized using the hydrothermal method with ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate ((NH4)6Mo7O24∙4H2O) as the Mo source; thioacetamide (CH3CSNH2) as the reducing agent and S source; and nonylphenols 9, nonylphenols 40, and polysorbate 80 as the surfactants. The impact of the different nonionic surfactants on the materials is comprehensively investigated. Moreover, the MoS2 fine structure was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission scanning microscopy (TEM). The HER characteristics of the MoS2 composites are assessed through electrochemical experiments, including linear sweep voltammetry and chronoamperometry measurements. Among the prepared specimens, MoS2/NP 9 exhibits the best electrocatalytic performance in a neutral medium. Furthermore, 240 mV is required to reach the current density of 10 mAcm−2.
Degradation of Chlorothalonil by Catalytic Biomaterials
Authors: Mowery-Evans Maya , Diviesti Karla , Holz Richard C.
Published: November 2024

Chlorothalonil (2,4,5,6-tetrachloro-1,3-benzenedicarbonitrile, TPN, CAS: 1897-45-6) is a halogenated fungicide currently widely applied to a large variety of crops. Its carcinogenicity, embryo lethality, and high chronic oral toxicity in mammals, among other effects on a variety of organisms, has made its biodegradation of great interest. Chlorothalonil dehalogenase (Chd) from the bacterium Pseudomonas sp. CTN-3 offers a potential solution by catalyzing the first step in the degradation of chlorothalonil. Reported herein are active biomaterials of Chd when encapsulated in tetramethylorthosilicate (TMOS) gels using the sol–gel method (Chd/sol), alginate beads (Chd/alginate), and chitosan-coated alginate beads (Chd/chitosan). Both Chd/sol and Chd/chitosan increased protection from the endopeptidase trypsin as well as imparted stability over a pH range from 5 to 9. Chd/sol outperformed Chd/alginate and Chd/chitosan in long-term storage and reuse experiments, retaining similar activity to soluble Chd stored under similar conditions. All three materials showed a level of increased thermostability, with Chd/sol retaining >60% activity up to 70 °C. All materials showed activity in 40% methanol, suggesting the possibility for organic solvents to improve TPN solubility. Overall, Chd/sol offers the best potential for bioremediation of TPN using Chd.
Proton Pool for the Mitigation of Salt Precipitate Enhancing CO2 Electroreduction in a Flow Cell
Authors: Chen Yixi , Wu Bowen , Qian Linping
Published: November 2024

Flow cells featuring a gas diffusion electrode (GDE) have emerged as an attractive platform for electrochemical CO2 reduction, offering high current densities (~300 mA·cm−2) and low energy consumption. However, the formation of salt precipitates, particularly carbonate and bicarbonate, poses a significant deficiency by reducing the cell’s operational longevity. In this study, we present a novel approach to mitigate salt precipitates in real-time through acid–base interaction. Recovery efficiency and partial current density of the cell were used to evaluate the capability of removing salt precipitates and the maintenance of CO2 reduction reactions (CO2RRs). It was suggested that the direct treatment of intermittent acid rinse recovers the performance of CO2RRs to a large extent (>97%), and the modification of the proton exchange resin reduces the reduction rate of partial current densities to 1/15 than that of the unmodified. This improvement enhances the cell’s catalytic performance, enabling the stability test for catalysts within the GDE-based flow cell.
Research on Deoxygenation Pyrolysis of Larch Based on Microwave Heating
Authors: Xue Shuang , Wang Xin , Zhang Biao , Xiao Bin , Song Yongyi
Published: November 2024

Aiming at problems such as low energy utilization efficiency and the high oxygen content of liquid products in the process of conventional biomass conversion to prepare liquid fuels, the deoxygenation pyrolysis technology route of larch based on microwave heating was proposed in this paper. Two kinds of calcium–iron composite oxygen carriers, including Ca2Fe2O5 with iron ore structure and CaFe2O4 with spinel structure, were successfully synthesized. The results showed that the selectivity of ideal products was improved under the action of single iron-based oxygen carriers; however, the deoxygenation effect was undesirable. Under the action of CaFe2O4, the selectivity of aromatics was increased to 27.17% and the selectivity of phenols was decreased to 36.46%, which mainly existed in the form of O1P with low oxygen content. The oxygen content of bio-oil was reduced to 27.70% and the calorific value was increased to 29.05 MJ/kg, thus leading to a great improvement in the quality of liquid products. After the pyrolysis reaction, the Fe2P3/2 XPS peak of CaFe2O4 shifted to a higher binding energy and was characterized as higher valence of iron oxide, which proved its “oxygen grabbing” capacity in microwave pyrolysis. The deoxygenation conversion of larch without an external hydrogen supply was achieved.
A Novel 2-Methylimidazole Promoted Oxyacyloxylation of α-Hydroxy Ketones and Anhydrides: An Easy Access to α-Acyloxy Ketones
Authors: Yu Shi-Wei , Li Zhong-Hao , Li Miao-Xin , Zeng Yu , Ye Wan-Xin , Xie Jia-Yu , Wang Zhao-Yang
Published: November 2024

An efficient and operationally simple method for the synthesis of α-acyloxy ketones through the readily available 2-methylimidazole-promoted reaction of α-hydroxy ketones and anhydrides is developed. In the reaction, the anhydrides act as both a substrate and a solvent. The new method features good substrate tolerance, mild reaction conditions, readily accessible starting materials, and excellent yields, providing facile and green access to the targets. Importantly, the reaction also avoids the use of reagents with pungent odors, such as pyridine, in traditional esterification, which may promote the development of organocatalysis using nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds as catalysts.
Optimizing Charge Separation and Transport: Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting in α-Fe2O3/CZTS Nanorod Arrays
Authors: Chen Wen , She Ao-Sheng , Ji Ming-Hao , Shi Hao-Yan , Yang Yang , Pu Yi-Hu , Chen Rui , Yang Wei-Hua , Chen Yan-Xin , Lu Can-Zhong
Published: November 2024

This study explores the enhancement of α-Fe2O3 (hematite) nanorod arrays for photoelec-trochemical applications by constructing a Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) heterojunction. While α-Fe2O3 offers good stability, a low cost, and environmental benefits, its efficiency is limited by slow oxygen evolution kinetics, high carrier recombination rates, and low conductivity. By introducing CZTS, a material with strong light absorption and charge transport properties, we enhance the separation of photogenerated charge carriers, reduce charge transfer resistance, and increase the carrier concentration, thereby boosting the overall photoelectrochemical performance. The experimental results show that a modified FC-15 photoanode achieves a photocurrent density of 3.40 mA/cm2 at 1.60 V vs. RHE, a substantial increase compared to 0.40 mA/cm2 for unmodified α-Fe2O3. Band gap analysis reveals a reduced band gap in the FC-15 material, enhancing light absorption and boosting the photoelectrocatalytic performance. In photoelectrochemical water-splitting tests, the FC-15 photoanode achieves a hydrogen production rate of 41.6 μmol/cm2/h, which is significantly improved over the unmodified sample at 5.64 μmol/cm2/h. These findings indicate that the CZTS/α-Fe2O3 heterojunction effectively promotes charge separation, enhances charge transport, and improves light absorption, substantially increasing photocatalytic efficiency. This heterojunction approach offers new insights and technical strategies for developing photocatalytic materials with potential applications in renewable energy.