bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, Production and Evaluation of Digital Educational Content Based on DDD-E Model: Depression Treatment in Traditional Persian Medicine
Authors: Khoshgoftar Zohreh , Ghorabi Samaneh Tahmasebi , Rouzbahani Arian Karimi , Kamran Manijeh , Heydarirad Ghazaleh , Goudarzi Zahra
Published: March 2024

Multimedia conveys educational concepts and materials in an easier, wider, and more attractive way, along with text, sound, image, and video, to overcome the limitations caused by educational methods. The aim of the current research is to produce and evaluate digital multimedia based on the decide, design, develop, and-evaluate (DDD-E) model in the field of teaching depression treatment in traditional Persian medicine. The study was quantitative, and the professors and doctoral students of the two fields of medical education and traditional Persian medicine were the subjects of the present study. In this research, the DDD-E model was used to produce a training package for the treatment of depression in traditional Persian medicine. This study was conducted in four phases: decision-making, planning, development, and evaluation. The final evaluation was done in two stages. First, it was evaluated by preparing a checklist of educational multimedia production stages based on the original DDD-E model, and in the second stage, a QAMLM questionnaire was used to evaluate the final product. The results of the evaluation showed that, according to the evaluators, quality components were generally observed in multimedia production. There was a complete consensus among the experts regarding the quality of content matching the goal and attention to learning results (Kappa coefficient = 1). Regarding the quality of media selection components (Kappa coefficient = 0.383), Paying attention to cultural and social factors (Kappa coefficient = 0.395) There was the least consensus. The overall score of the multimedia produced was equal to 58.4, according to experts. The multimedia was produced in terms of content, education, and technology to provide training to general practitioners in order to improve practical knowledge and use the recommendations of traditional Persian medicine to adjust the treatment patterns of patients with depression.
The Effects of Dietary Interventions on Cardiovascular Indexes among Individuals with Cold and Hot Temperaments Based on Persian Medicine
Authors: Yavari Maryam , Mozafarvandi Hossein , Heshmat-Ghahdarijani Kiyan , Shahabi Javad , Esmailzadeh Maedeh , Pourajam Samaneh
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to explore potential relationships between dietary patterns aligned with cold or hot temperaments and cardiovascular parameters among healthy individuals. This randomized clinical trial was conducted in 2020 with 65 healthy volunteers. Participants were categorized into two groups, specifically as hot or cold temperaments. In the initial phase, we measured body temperature, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and conducted the Heart Rate Variability (HRV) test. Subsequently, participants received a three-day diet plan with a similar nature to their body temperament (second phase). The same measurements were repeated after three days. Following this, participants returned to a normal daily diet for three days. In the third phase, they received a diet plan of the opposite nature to their temperament for another three days, and the same battery of tests was conducted at the study's conclusion. In both the cold temperament group during the second phase and the hot temperament group during the third phase, mean body temperature, heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure were significantly lower than in other phases (P < 0.05). Additionally, HRV indexes, including RMSSD, SDNNInd, and QT, were significantly higher during the second phase for the cold temperament group and the third phase for the hot temperament group compared to other phases (P < 0.05). Irrespective of individual body temperament, the consumption of a cold-natured diet led to a significant decrease in mean body temperature, heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This effect may be attributed to the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system.
Abu-Sahl al-Masihi (960-1010 AD) and His Description of the Heart
Authors: Taghavi-Shirazi Maryam , Aghabeiglooei Zahra , Ghods Roshanak , Hashem-Dabaghian Fataneh
Published: March 2024

Since the Old Testament era, medicine has drawn scientists from around the world. Persian physicians have played an undeniable role in the advancement of medicine worldwide and their books have been taught as medical textbooks in the East and the West for years. In the Islamic Golden Age (9th to 12th century AD), Abu-Sahl al-Masihi (960-1010 AD), was one of the great Persian scholars contemporary to Avicenna and Al-Biruni. He wrote several valuable works on medicine, philosophy, mathematics, and astronomy in Arabic. The two books titled Al-Mia fil-Tibb (Book of the Hundred [on Medicine]) and Ezhar al-Hekmat Allah Ta’ala fi Khalgh al-Ensan (Manifestations of God’s Wisdom in the Creation of Mankind) also known as Tashrih Badan al-Ensan (Human Anatomy) are among his important works in medicine. Particularly, in Tashrih Badan al-Ensan, Abu-Sahl detailed the structure and function of each organ within the human body. On heart anatomy, he presented interesting, and even innovative views. Despite the significance of his views on medicine among physicians of the Islamic era, his works have failed to be translated into Latin or other languages for unknown reasons, leaving him veiled in academic spheres. This paper aims to describe Abu-Sahl al-Masihi's opinions on heart anatomy.
A vármegyei átlagos termőföldárak eltérésének okai
Authors: Barna András , Vinogradov Szergej
Published: March 2024

Currently, there are significant differences between the average per hectare agricultural land prices of Hungarian counties. In this study, I endeavour to identify the causes of the price differentials by using a regression model. The data employed in the analysis relate to the years 2013, 2016 and 2020, and cover all of the 19 counties. The average yields of the main arable crops and the per capita GDP values of counties have a vigorous positive effect on land prices. Much like in numerous pieces of earlier research, it is demonstrated that larger average farm size also increases the price of agricultural land. Land prices are considerably higher in lowland areas with a smaller density of settlements than in otherwise similar but hilly or montainous regions, where there are more settlements. During the 2010s, agricultural land prices in Hungary grew dynamically. The rise of per capita GDP, average farm size and farm output per unit area played an important part in this, but perhaps the most consequential factor was the rise of the yields of the chief arable crops. The spectacular growth trend of average yields is attributable, above all, to the advance of agrotechnology. Since the fall of communism, Hungarian agriculture has shifted more and more towards intensive cereal production. Apparently, technological development has enhanced the profitability of cereal production relative to the other branches of agriculture, and it has thus raised the values of plots located in areas most suitable for arable farming.
A vasútszakmai oktatás fejlesztési lehetőségei
Authors: Farkas Attila , Filep Roland , Dajnoki Krisztina
Published: March 2024

The safe operation of the railway requires that the workers receive the theoretical and practical training with which reliable operation can actually be carried out. The purpose of the study is to investigate the deficits of railway vocational education. In the course of the research, we looked for an answer to the question that, in addition to revealing the strengths/weaknesses, what are the opportunities/threats, the knowledge of which can improve and improve the quality of education. We conducted individual and focus group interviews, based on the results of which we prepared a SWOT analysis. We found that it appears as a strength that most of the instructors are dedicated and have innovative ideas. The training system, on the other hand, is outdated and the curriculum needs to be standardized. The organizational units see many opportunities to improve the situation, such as strengthening input and output requirements, making education more practical, and implementing more innovative solutions using Education 4.0. Organizational units can also help each other by sharing best practices. In addition to standardizing and modernizing the curriculum, we recommend organizing a joint forum that can help in sharing knowledge.
Overview on the African Regional Processes
Authors: Nene Siphesihle
Published: March 2024

Regional integration in Africa is deemed as fundamental by many of the continent’s policymakers and as a result, there is growing support for regional integration in Africa amongst the conti-nent's international development partners and African elites. The success of regional integration, development & cooperation and social policy are dependent on multilateral regional associations of nations. However, little progress has been made, and one of the challenges and criticisms of the institutions’ efforts towards achieving the African Integration Agenda, is overlapping mem-bership. The paper examines the AU and RECs structures and role as regional integration bod-ies. Then, the research discusses and evaluates the challenges, and these regional bodies encoun-ter six decades later. The research asserts that genuine progress towards deeper and swifter inte-gration can only be attained through the active support and participation of Member States.
From the Laboratory to the Clinic: Molecular Treatment of Heart Failure
Authors: Alagoz Mehmet , Alpay Merve
Published: March 2024

Coronary and cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death today, with heart failure being among the primary culprits. Heart failure can occur as a result of many diseases, so research in this area is important in terms of clinical outcomes and treatment. Histopathology of heart failure includes cardiac hypertrophy, inflammation, angiogenesis, and apoptosis pathways. The issue of elucidating the pathology of heart failure is still an area of active research. In advanced heart failure, the typical management strategy is medical treatment, mechanical ventricular support devices, and heart transplantation. Heart failure, which occurs with modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, can be controlled with both non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment applications. It is especially important to focus on new treatment methods and introduce them to the clinic. Although they are all not yet used in clinics, many studies have yielded promising results with molecular treatment options for heart failure prevention. Studies in animals have shown that heart failure stops proceeding when angiogenesis is induced. Promising results have also been achieved with stem cell therapy, but these may not be implementable for years. It is expected that studies following phases 1 and 2, of the studies which had positive results in the treatment of heart failure, will be conducted and applied in the daily treatment practice.
The Best Practice of Marketing Management in Polish and International Enterprises
Authors: Golik-Górecka Grażyna , Grzegorczyk Wojciech , Gwiaździński Emilian , Wadlewski Aron-Axel , Krawiec Wioletta , Olejniczak Aneta , Sibińska Anna , Dąbrowski Jacek , Fabicka Wioletta , Michałus Małgorzata , Skonieczka Oliwia , Selinah Mabena Maimoona , Diaz Riaño Geraldine Tatiana
Published: March 2024

Książka stanowi prezentację teoretycznych założeń dobrych i najlepszych praktyk zarządzania marketingowego oraz przykładów ich implementacji w biznesie. Dobrane przykłady stanowią ilustrację aktualnych wyzwań, jakie stoją przed organizacjami polskimi i międzynarodowymi, a także odpowiedzi organizacji for profit i non profit, które mogą stanowić wzór do naśladowania dla innych podmiotów. Publikacja stanowi kontynuację podręcznika wydanego pod redakcją Grażyny Golik-Góreckiej pod tytułem Mariaż nauki z praktyką. Najlepsze praktyki zarządzania marketingowego w polskich i międzynarodowych przedsiębiorstwach. Studia przypadków (Wyd. UŁ, Łódź 2020). Niniejszy podręcznik powstał dzięki współpracy pracowników naukowych z Katedry Marketingu na Wydziale Zarządzania Uniwersytetu Łódzkiego, praktyków biznesu oraz byłych już studentów programów Erasmus i Mobility, którzy uczestniczyli w warsztatach „Marketing Management in Practice” na Wydziale Zarządzania UŁ.
Republika Rzymska i Wielka Brytania – kilka uwag na temat konstytucji niepisanej
Authors: Tulejski Tomasz , Banach Tomasz
Published: March 2024

Autorzy proponują nowe spojrzenie na temat niepisanej konstytucji. Analizując historyczne przykłady Republiki Rzymskiej i Anglii (Wielkiej Brytanii) wskazują, że konstytucja niepisana charakteryzuje się trzema istotnymi cechami. Po pierwsze ma charakter konstytucji historycznej. Oznacza to, że głównym sposobem jej legitymizacji jest starożytne pochodzenie. Po drugie, konstytucja niepisana ma charakter polityczny, a zatem wywodzi się z praktyki danego systemu politycznego. Zmiany konstytucyjne wymuszane są przez wystąpienie kryzysu politycznego lub społecznego lub istotne zmiany społeczne, których nie da się rozwiązać w ramach obecnego konstytucyjnego status quo. Po trzecie konsekwencją wspomnianych cech jest niepowtarzalność źródeł niepisanej konstytucji, na którą składają się normy o różnym charakterze, zwykle niejednolite ontologicznie.
A Importância das Escalas Validadas em Saúde para a Prática Clínica
Authors: Ameixa Palma Diana , Robalo Gomez Diaz Inês
Published: March 2024

N/a.
Acute type a aortic dissection: when not to operate, a review
Authors: Faggion Vinholo Thais , Awtry Jake , Semco Robert , Newell Paige , Sabe Ashraf A.
Published: March 2024

Acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) is a surgical emergency with a nonoperative mortality rate of up to 1% per hour and an operative mortality rate as high as 24%. Therefore, evaluation of comorbidities and patient presentation characteristics prompts a pause for risk stratification before proceeding to the operating room, as emergent surgery may not always be the optimal approach. This comprehensive review explores key considerations in ATAAD management, emphasizing the need for nuanced decision making, by considering medical management and delayed surgery as an alternative management approach for high-risk populations such as the frail or patients who have a history of cardiac surgery. Beyond the immediate threat of aortic rupture, organ malperfusion stands out as the most feared complication of ATAAD, also elevating perioperative risk significantly. In such cases, careful assessment of patient’s hemodynamic status is paramount. For stable patients, a thorough preoperative strategy and multidisciplinary discussions are encouraged. Notably, the advent of endovascular techniques provides viable lower-risk alternatives to the traditional open approach. The consequences of ATAAD surgical intervention extend beyond the immediate procedural concerns, with a substantial impact on the patient’s overall function. Prioritizing patient-centered care becomes imperative in aligning management with individual goals of care. This review seeks to provide insights into these considerations by offering a stepwise approach to patient-centered decision-making in ATAAD management.
Contribution à la connaissance du complexe des Pins dits « de montagne » (Pinus uncinata Ramond, Pinus mughus Scopoli et taxons associés)
Authors: Sandoz Henri
Published: March 2024

Cet article complète les parutions récentes sur les Pins dits « de montagne ». Concernant la nomenclature des principaux taxons, on peut être catégorique sur leur appellation : le Pin à crochets est le Pinus uncinata Ramond et le Pin mugho est le Pinus mughus Scopoli (= Pinus pumilio Haenke). Les binômes Pinus montana Miller et Pinus mugo Turra doivent être définitivement supprimés. Pour la détermination des principaux taxons, une clé actualisée et précise est présentée. En outre, une hypothèse sur la phylogénie des principaux Pins dits « de montagne » est exposée.
Messages clés• Les travaux historiques et taxonomiques confirment les appellations Pinus uncinata Ramond et Pinus mughus Scopoli.• Une clé actualisée de détermination des Pins dits « de montagne » est présentée.• Une hypothèse sur la phylogénie des Pins dits « de montagne » est proposée.
Pour une gestion forestière au service du paysage : notion d’attrait paysager et méthode appliquée en forêt publique de Corse
Authors: Tiger Muriel , Chelles Fabien
Published: March 2024

Une gestion multifonctionnelle de la forêt est essentielle. Le paysage pourrait-il être, dans certains cas, le point fondateur définissant l’objectif de gestion sylvicole ? La priorité pourrait-elle être de préserver et magnifier le paysage « pour lui-même », sans présupposer d’une quelconque valeur économique liée à l’exploitation des bois ? À travers l’exemple d’une méthode fonctionnelle, créée et déployée au sein de la Direction Territoriale Corse de l’ONF depuis 2015, cet article présente une définition de la notion d’attrait paysager, véritable outil permettant un changement de paradigme, pour mieux cibler et prendre en compte l’enjeu paysager.
Messages clés :• La gestion forestière repose sur la prise en compte de tous les enjeux liés aux différentes fonctions de la forêt.• La notion de paysage n’est encore pas systématiquement considérée dans toute sa valeur.• L’analyse du paysage forestier intervient bien souvent trop en aval des processus décisionnels.
Les ennemis de la forêt vus par les peintres
Authors: Pinon Jean
Published: March 2024

Les principaux dommages aux arbres et aux forêts visibles en peinture sont dus à des causes abiotiques. En premier lieu, le vent qui fait pencher les arbres, les déforme durablement ou cause chablis et bris de branche ou de tronc. Les incendies actifs ou leurs conséquences sont aussi bien illustrés. De rares toiles évoquent les inondations, la sécheresse et le gel. Parmi les adversités biotiques, ce sont les dégâts dus aux champignons (lignivores pour l’essentiel) qui sont visibles. La graphiose de l’Orme est suggérée sans être clairement illustrée alors que plusieurs tableaux suggèrent la rouille courbeuse sur Pin. Le gui et divers épiphytes (lierre, lichen, mousse, usnée) sont le thème de quelques tableaux. Sont largement figurés des dommages dont la cause n’est pas précisée bien que résultant des adversités précédentes : fentes, perte d’écorce, cavité, dépérissement et mort. Quelques œuvres combinent plusieurs dégâts. D’assez nombres scènes vivantes (Homme, animaux) sont associées à ces dommages.
Messages clés :• Les dommages forestiers visibles dans les peintures sont le plus souvent d’origines abiotiques.• Les dégâts du vent et des incendies sont les plus souvent représentés.• Parmi les dégâts biotiques, les dégâts dus aux champignons sont les plus illustrés.
On the Natural Intelligence and Consciousness of the Immune System and Its Relationship with the Brain
Authors: Ruggiero Marco , Hiratsuka Akira
Published: March 2024

In this article, we consider the relationship between the brain and the immune system in the context of the Orch OR (Orchestrated Objective Reduction) theory of consciousness. Orch OR is a theory that postulates that consciousness arises from quantum computations occurring inside microtubules. The immune system is capable of acquiring, learning, and remembering information, thus showing all the attributes of natural intelligence. We argue that the immune system also has the attribute of consciousness and can gain access to an amount of information greater than what is accessible to the brain since it is not constrained by brain's reducing valve that is responsible for cognitive bottlenecks. We also describe the role of meditation and religious chanting in affecting the brain and immune system. We speculate that some effects of religious chanting on the immune system may not be mediated by the brain. Finally, we examine the role of the immune system in connecting with the consciousness embedded in the universe.
Food, Growth and Biological Production of European eel Anguilla anguilla in a Small Stream in Jutland, Denmark
Authors: Rasmussen Gorm , Pedersen Michael I , Therkildsen Birgit M
Published: March 2024

Silver eel were sampled in 1981 and 1983 in River Brede, Denmark, with outlet to the North Sea. Yellow eel in River Køge-Lellinge, Denmark, with outlet to the Baltic Sea were sampled 1965-1968. Silver eel were aged by burning the otoliths. Silver male ages varied from 4 to 25 years, lengths 30.8 to 45.3 cm, and female silver eel varied from 7 to 25 years, lengths 42.3 to 77.3 cm. von Bertalanffy trajectories of length-at-age of male and female yellow eel were calculated in both rivers. Younger yellow eel had significantly higher annual growth rate compared to older age groups, and females grew significantly faster than males. Two models for natural mortality M were used to estimate number of glass eel needed to produce number of silver eel for each sex and silver age group. Annual silver eel production from River Brede Å was 49.2 kg ha-1, demanding 2,894 glass eel ha-1 and in River Køge-Lellinge, the silver eel production was 48.5 kg ha-1, demanding 5,570 glass eel ha-1. It was calculated that one (0.29 g) thousand glass eel contribute to 8.8 kg silver eel in River Køge-Lellinge, and 17.0 kg silver eel in River Brede. To fulfill the Danish EMP in rivers requires annual stocking of 33 tons or 9.4 million reared on-grown eel (3.5 g) to compensate for 183 tons lost silver eel.
Beta Decay with No Neutrinos and Parity Conservation
Authors: Sanctuary Bryan
Published: March 2024

We changed the symmetry of the Weak Force from SU(2) to the quaternion group $Q_8$, and found that spin spacetime separates into two complementary spaces: a spin polarization spacetime of even parity states, and a spin coherence space, in the $S^3$ hypersphere, of odd parity coherent states. Under the quaternion group, spin is a boson of spin 1 in free flight and a fermion of spin $\frac{1}{2}$ when measured. It immediately follows that neutrinos are not needed to balance spin and conserve energy in beta decay. Additionally, we find the boson electrons emitted in beta decay are odd to parity, leading to parity conservation even though the observed beta distribution is asymmetrical.
Assembly Theory of Binary Messages (How to Assemble a Black Hole and Use it to Assemble New Binary Information?)
Authors: Łukaszyk Szymon , Bieniawski Wawrzyniec
Published: March 2024

Using assembly theory, we investigate the assembly pathways of fixed-length binary strings formed by joining the individual bits present in the assembly pool and the strings that entered the pool as a result of previous joining operations. We show that the string assembly index is bounded from below and above, and we conjecture about the form of the upper bound. We show that the length of an elegant, trivial binary program required to assemble a string featuring the smallest assembly index is equal to its assembly index, and conjecture that there is no binary program that has a length shorter than the length of the string featuring the largest assembly index that could assemble this string. We conjecture that a black hole surface is defined by a balanced distinct string that satisfies the upper bound of a distinct string assembly index. The results confirm that four Planck areas provide a minimum information capacity that provides a minimum thermodynamic (Bekenstein-Hawking) entropy. Knowing that the problem of determining the assembly index is at least NP-complete, we conjecture that the problem of determining the assembly index of a given binary string is NP-complete, while the problem of creating the string so that it would have a predetermined maximum assembly index is NP-hard. Therefore, once the new information is assembled by a dissipative structure or by a human, increasing the information entropy according to the second law of infodynamics, it is subject to the second law of thermodynamics, and nature seeks to optimize its assembly pathway.
Quantum Hydrodynamics in External Magnetic Fields: From Nonrelativistic to Relativistic Regimes
Authors: Stephenson Matthew James
Published: March 2024

We delve into nonrelativistic quantum electrodynamics within a background magnetic field, ensuring gauge invariance via a vector potential. Our exploration extends to the Lagrangian, which incorporates electron self-interactions and electromagnetic field interactions. Through the path integral formalism, we elucidate the effective action, with a specific focus on the photon propagator and screening effects. Examining density and current components reveals Laurent expansions in the hydrodynamic limit. The equations of motion in real space are derived, leading to discussions on phenomena such as Poiseuille-like flow and the Navier-Stokes equation. To ground our theoretical framework at practical contexts, we consider applications such as the fluid dynamics at binary star systems. Depending on the velocity of the expelled fluid, our analysis allows for both nonrelativistic and relativistic treatments, providing a versatile tool for understanding the intricacies of fluid behavior at astrophysical scenarios. Additionally, we recognize that at the presence of a magnetic field, magnetohydrodynamics becomes crucial. While our current focus is at nonrelativistic quantum electrodynamics, the insights gained here contribute to a broader understanding, offering a comprehensive foundation for quantum electrodynamics analysis at diverse physical systems.
Dynamic Event-Triggered Control for Delayed Nonlinear Markov Jump Systems under Randomly Occurring DoS Attack and Packet Loss
Authors: Zhang Haiyang , Chen Huizhen , Xiong Lianglin , Zhang Yi
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to address the exponential stability and stabilization problems for a class of delayed nonlinear Markov jump systems under randomly occurring Denial-of-Service (DoS) attack and packet loss. Firstly, the stochastic characteristics of DoS attack and packet loss are depicted by the attack success rate and packet loss rate. Secondly, a Period Observation Window (POW) method and a hybrid-input strategy are proposed to compensate for the impact of DoS attack and packet loss on the system. Thirdly, A Dynamic Event-triggered Mechanism (DETM) is introduced to save more network resources and ensure the security and reliability of systems. Then, by constructing a general common Lyapunov functional and combining with the DETM and other inequality analysis techniques, the less conservative stability and stabilization criteria for the underlying systems are derived. In the end, the effectiveness of our result is verified through a numerical example.
The Use of Hydrodynamic Cavitation to Improve the Anaerobic Digestion of Waste from Dairy Cattle Farming – from Laboratory Tests to Large-Scale Agricultural Biogas Plant
Authors: Dębowski Marcin , Kazimierowicz Joanna , Nowicka Anna , Dudek Magda , Zieliński Marcin
Published: March 2024

There is a need to find methods to intensify the anaerobic digestion process. One possibility is the use of pre-treatment techniques. Many laboratory tests confirm their effectiveness, but in most cases, there is no verification work carried out on industrial plants. The aim of the research carried out under laboratory conditions and on a large scale was to determine the technological and energy efficiency of the use of hydrodynamic cavitation in the pre-treatment of a waste mixture from dairy farms. It has been shown that hydrodynamic cavitation significantly increases the concentration of organic compounds in the dissolved phase. In the most effective variants, the increase in the content of these indicators was over 90% for both COD and TOC. The degree of solubilisation achieved was 49±2.6% for COD and almost 52±4.4% for TOC. Under laboratory conditions, the highest effects of anaerobic digestion were achieved after 10 minutes of pre-treatment. The amount of biogas was on average 367±18 mL/gCOD and the amount of methane 233±13 mL/gCOD. Further large-scale optimisation trials showed that after 8 minutes of hydrodynamic cavitation, the biogas yield was 327±8 L/kgCOD with a CH4 content of 62.9±1.9%. With this variant, the net energy yield was 66.4±2.6 kWh/day, a value that was 13.9% higher than the original variant with 10 minutes of disintegration and 3.1% higher than the variant without pre-treatment.
A PVP Nanofibrous Sensor Doubly Decorated with Mesoporous Graphene to Selectively Detect Acetic Acid Vapours
Authors: Papa Paolo , Zampetti Emiliano , Molinari Fabricio Nicolas , De Cesare Fabrizio , Di Natale Corrado , Tranfo Giovanna , Macagnano Antonella
Published: March 2024

An original approach has been proposed for designing a nanofibrous (NFs) layer using UV-cured polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a matrix, incorporating mesoporous graphene carbon (MGC) nanopowder both inside and outside the fibres, creating a sandwich-like structure. This architecture is intended to selectively adsorb and detect acetic acid vapours, which are known to cause health issues in exposed workers. The nanocomposite MGC-PVP-NFs layer was fabricated through electrospinning deposition onto interdigitated microelectrodes (IDEs) and stabilised under UV-light irradiation. To enhance the adhesion of MGC onto the surface of the nanocomposite polymeric fibres, the layer was dipped in a suspension of polyethylenimine (PEI) and MGC. The resulting structure demonstrated promising electrical and sensing properties, including rapid responses, high sensitivity, good linearity, reversibility, repeatability, and selectivity towards acetic acid vapours. Initial testing was conducted in a laboratory using a bench electrometer, followed by validation in a portable sensing device based on consumer electronic components (by ARDUINO®). This portable system was designed to provide a compact, cost-effective solution with high sensing capabilities. Under room temperature and ambient air conditions, both laboratory and portable tests exhibited favourable linear responses, with detection limits of 0.16 and 1 ppm, respectively.
Non-Negative Decomposition of Multivariate Information: From Minimum to Blackwell Specific Information
Authors: Mages Tobias , Anastasiadi Elli , Rohner Christian
Published: March 2024

Partial Information Decompositions (PIDs) aim to categorize how a set of source variables provide information about a target variable redundantly, uniquely, or synergetically. The original proposal for such an analysis used a lattice-based approach and gained significant attention. However, finding a suitable underlying decomposition measure is still an open research question, even at an arbitrary number of discrete random variables. This work proposes a solution to this case with a non-negative PID that satisfies an inclusion-exclusion relation for any f-information measure. The decomposition is constructed from a pointwise perspective of the target variable to take advantage of the equivalence between the Blackwell and zonogon order in this setting. We prove that the decomposition satisfies the axioms of the original decomposition framework and guarantees non-negative partial information results. We highlight that our decomposition behaves differently depending on the used information measure, which can be utilized for different applications. We additionally show how our proposal can be used to obtain a non-negative decomposition of Rényi-information at a transformed inclusion-exclusion relation, and for tracing partial information flows through Markov chains.
Gold Nanoprobes for Detection of a Crucial EGFR Deletion for Early Diagnosis of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Enea Maria , Nuekaew Anupong , Franco Ricardo , Pereira Eulália
Published: March 2024

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) exhibit improved optical and spectral properties compared to bulk materials, making them suitable for detection of DNA, RNA, antigens, and antibodies. Here, we describe a simple, selective, and rapid non-cross linking detection assay, using approx. 35 nm spherical Au nanoprobes, for a common mutation occurring in exon 19 of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), associated with non-small cell lung cancer cells. AuNPs were synthesized based on the seed-mediated growth method and functionalized with a specific 16 bp thiolated oligonucleotide using a pH-assisted method. Both AuNPs and Au nanoprobes proved to be highly stable and monodisperse by ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and electrophoretic light scattering (ELS). Our results indicate a detection limit of 1.5 µg mL−1 using a 0.15 nmol dm−3 Au nanoprobe concentration. In conclusion, this work is an effective possibility for a straight-forward, fast, and inexpensive alternative for the detection of DNA sequences related to lung cancer, leading to a potential platform for an early diagnosis of lung cancer patients.
Influence of Knowledge Uncertainties on the Safety Assessment of Existing Post-tensioned Concrete Bridges
Authors: Poeta Alberto , Micozzi Fabio , Gioiella Laura , Dall'Asta Andrea
Published: March 2024

The assessment of existing bridges constitutes a serious challenge for the researchers since their safety evaluation is a complex task due to several sources of uncertainty affecting the parameters identified in the knowledge process. In particular, a high level of uncertainties may arise in the case of prestressing systems requiring special investigation strategies and experimental technologies. The paper aims to investigate how the knowledge uncertainties influence the safety assessment of existing post-tensioned bridges. The semi-probabilistic approach is used, and uncertainties related to the knowledge process are described considering the number of tests, the confidence level assumed for the estimation of the problem parameters, and the measurement errors of in-situ tests. Results concerning a typical post-tensioned bridge are reported and the variability of the outcomes is discussed and compared with a reference case of “perfect knowledge”. The main results of the study confirm the general robustness of the semi-probabilistic Eurocodes safety format and provide an overview of dispersion due to different choices about the number of tests and confidence level. The measurement errors may lead to significant under-estimation of the computed structural capacity with respect to the reference one.
Comprehensive Review of Canine Entropion: Types, Surgical Techniques, and Prognosis
Authors: Estrada-Araya Alejandra , Macuer-Guzmán Johan , Echeverria-Jaque Cecilia , Freidl Florina , Giovagnoli-Vicuña Claudia
Published: March 2024

Entropion is a condition characterized by the total or partial inversion of the eyelid margin, resulting in contact between the outer skin and the corneal or conjunctival surface, and sometimes both. This condition can affect various animals, including horses, pigs, goats, sheep, rabbits, felines, and particularly canines. It typically manifests in the lower lid's lateral portion but can affect any part of the lid. This contact between eyelashes or facial hair and the cornea or conjunctiva leads to severe irritation, causing self-inflicted trauma, as evidenced by clinical signs of pain, irritation, ulcerations, and vision loss. Entropion can be classified as primary (congenital or developmental) or secondary (spastic and scarring). Diagnosis relies on clinical signs, the animal's history, and its breed. It's essential to assess the degree of entropion in the dog without applying topical anesthesia. This study conducts a literature review on surgical techniques for correcting various types of entropion in canines.
The Retinal Pigment Epithelium Pigment Granules: Norm, Age-related and Pathology
Authors: Dontsov Alexander E , Ostrovsky Mikhail A
Published: March 2024

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), which ensures the normal functioning of the neural retina, is a pigmented single-cell layer that separates the retina from the Bruch's membrane and the choroid. There are three main types of pigment granules in the RPE cells of the human eye: lipofuscin granules (LG) containing the fluorescent “age pigment” lipofuscin, melanoprotein granules (melanosomes, melanolysosomes) containing the screening pigment melanin and complex melanolipofuscin granules (MLG) containing simultaneously both types of pigments - melanin and lipofuscin. This review examines the functional role of pigment granules in the aging process and in the development of oxidative stress and associated pathologies in RPE cells. The focus is on the process of light-induced oxidative degradation of pigment granules caused by reactive oxygen species. The reasons leading to increased oxidative stress in RPE cells as a result of oxidative degradation of pigment granules are considered. A mechanism has been proposed to explain the phenomenon of age-related decline in melanin content in RPE cells. The essence of the mechanism is that when the lipofuscin part of the melanolipofuscin granule is exposed to light, reactive oxygen species are formed, which destroy its melanin part. As more melanolipofuscin granules are formed with age and the development of degenerative diseases, the melanin in pigmented epithelial cells ultimately disappears.
Threats of Contamination of Drinking Water Sources and Preventive Enhancement of Protection Efforts of these Sources in the Case Study of the Czech Republic
Authors: Kavan Štěpán , Kročová Šárka , Axman Milan
Published: March 2024

The permanent protection of groundwater and surface sources of drinking water in the required raw water quality from contamination is the primary foundation of preserving the life of society and the entire engineering infrastructure operability not only in the Czech Republic but also in other countries of the world. One of the basic ways of contamination prevention enhancement and risk mitigation of putting a water source out of operation is the identification of the given risk as well as soil contamination monitoring. The purpose of this study is to understand specific aspects of contamination threats to drinking water sources and determine possible solutions to eliminate the risk, shown in the example case study in the Czech Republic conditions. Based on the findings, a proposal to enhance the prevention of water source contamination has been elaborated in the form of recommendations regarding the ways and means used to monitor the risk areas and to implement technical measures so as to eliminate or terminate the specified risk. A complex approach based on the integration of interdisciplinary factors and methodology is required to minimize the threats of aquatic ecosystems contamination in the Czech Republic.
Research, Development and Applications of Subsurface Radars in the USSR and Russia from the 60s to the Present Days
Authors: Ivashov Sergey
Published: March 2024

This article describes the history of research and development of surface-penetrating radar, starting from the 60s in the USSR, and ending today in Russia and neighboring states formed after the collapse of the USSR. The outstanding role played in the initial period of this technology development by Prof. M.I. Finkelstein and his colleagues is highlighted. Their research had a significant impact on subsequent developments in modern Russia and the neighboring countries.
Synchronization in a Three Level Network of All-to-All Quasi-Periodically Forced Hodgkin-Huxley Reaction-Diffusion Equations
Authors: Ambrosio B. , Aziz-Alaoui M.A. , Oujbara A.
Published: March 2024

This article focuses on the analysis of dynamics emerging in a Network of Hodgkin-Huxley Reaction-Diffusion equations. The network is forced with three external periodic stimulus input. A synchronization phenomenon is observed.
IL-10 and IL-1β Serum Levels, Genetic Variants, and Metabolic Syndrome: Insights into Older Adults' Clinical Characteristics
Authors: Freitas Renata de Souza , De Souza Silva Calliandra Maria , Caroline Ferreira Fratelli Caroline , Ramos de Lima Luciano , Morato Stival Marina , Schwerz Funghetto Silvana , Rodrigues da Silva Izabel Cristina , Vieira de Andrade Rosângela
Published: March 2024

Populational aging is marked by chronic non-communicable diseases, such as metabolic syndrome (MetS). IL-10 and IL-1β are pleiotropic cytokines with multiple biological effects linked to metabolic disorders. This cross-sectional study assessed 193 participants' IL-10 and IL-1β serum levels regarding their role in developing MetS, clinical characteristics, and their IL1B rs1143627 and IL10 rs1800890 variants' genotype frequencies in a population over 60. IL-10 levels correlated weakly with HDL levels and fat mass and inversely with triglycerides, glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and estimated average blood glucose levels. IL-10 levels were also indirectly influenced by the patient's T2DM duration, lean mass amount, and bone mineral content. Participants with altered HDL, elevated serum glucose, raised HbA1c levels, or those over 80 had reduced serum IL-10 levels compared to those with normal levels or other age groups, respectively. Women also had higher serum IL-10 levels than men. Dissimilarity, IL-1β levels correlated directly only with the number of total leukocytes and segmented neutrophils, showing only significant variations with self-reported alcohol consumption. Our study also found that those with the IL10 AA genotype (lower IL-10 levels) had a significantly higher risk of developing MetS. These findings may help direct future research and more targeted therapeutic approaches in older adults.
Glycosphingolipids in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Regeneration Therapy: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Prospects
Authors: Homan Kentaro , Onodera Tomohiro , Matsuoka Masatake , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: March 2024

Glycosphingolipids (GSLs), a subtype of glycolipids containing sphingosine, are critical components of vertebrate plasma membranes, playing a pivotal role in cellular signaling and interactions. In human articular cartilage in osteoarthritis (OA), GSL expression is known notably to decrease. This review focuses on the roles of gangliosides, a specific type of GSL, in cartilage degeneration and regeneration, emphasizing their regulatory function in signal transduction. The expression of gangliosides, whether endogenous or augmented exogenously, is regulated at the enzymatic level, targeting specific glycosyltransferases. This regulation has significant implications for the composition of cell surface gangliosides and their impact on signal transduction in chondrocytes and progenitor cells. Different levels of ganglioside expression can influence signaling pathways in various ways, potentially affecting cell properties, including malignancy. Moreover, gene manipulations against gangliosides have been shown to regulate cartilage metabolism and chondrocyte differentiation in vivo and in vitro. This review highlights the potential of targeting gangliosides in the development of therapeutic strategies for osteoarthritis and cartilage injury and addresses promising directions for future research and treatment.
Emulsion Liquid Membranes Based on Os–NP/n–decanol or n–dodecanol Nanodispersions for p–Nitrophenol Reduction
Authors: Pîrțac Andreia , Nechifor Aurelia Cristina , Tanczos Szidonia-Katalin , Oprea Ovidiu Cristian , Grosu Alexandra Raluca , Matei Cristian , Grosu Vlad-Alexandru , Vasile Bogdan Stefan , Albu Paul Constantin , Nechifor Gheorghe
Published: March 2024

Materials based on platinum metals with very good catalytic activity were tested in the reduction of p–nitrophenol (pNP) to p–aminophenol (pAP). The majority of presented catalytic materials are based on the adsorption of p–nitrophenol on the surface of the catalyst simultaneously with molecular hydrogen, coming from sodium borohydride in an aqueous medium, which reduces it. In the present paper, a catalytic material based on osmium dispersed in n–decanol or n–dodecanol is presented, which also works as an emulsion membrane, for the absorption of p–nitrophenol and molecular hydrogen at the n–alcohol aqueous solution interface. The hydrogenation of p–nitrophenol is carried out in a reaction and separation column in which the acid receiving phase emulsion is dispersed in the osmium nanodispersion, in n–alcohols. This emulsion circulates from the base of the column to its upper part in co-current or counter-current with the source phase consisting of p–nitrophenol and sodium borohydride. Experiments show that the circulation of counter-current phases is superior to that in co-current, and the emulsion based on n–decanol is more efficient than the one based on n–dodecanol. The increase in the pH difference between the source and receiving phases leads to the increase in the conversion of p–nitrophenol to p–aminophenol. The efficiency of separation of the reaction product in the receiving phase is lower than the conversion at the same operating time. The apparent catalytic rate constant (kapp) of the new catalytic material based on the emulsion membrane with nanodispersion of osmium nanoparticles (0.1×10−3 for n–dodecanol and 0.9×10−3 for n-decanol) is lower by an order of magnitude compared to those based on adsorption on catalysts from platinum metal group. The advantage of the tested membrane catalytic material is that it extracts p–aminophenol in the acid receiving phase. The paper proposes a mechanism of the studied reduction system.
Evaluation of the Response of Historical Structures Fitted with Seismic-Isolation
Authors: Apostol Bogdan Felix , Balan Stefan Florin
Published: March 2024

The paper highlights the performance of the seismic isolation devices, installed on retrofitted buildings in reducing the seismic response when subjected to earthquakes. Two buildings from the beginning of the XX-th century in Bucharest are chosen from many more, monitored over the city area. We discuss the response of these base-seismic isolated structures, relying on good quality data acquired from the recent strong earthquake (03.11.2022, MW = 5.0). Elastic response spectra computed from recordings at two levels of each structure are used, placed under and right above the isolating layer. At one building the existence of previous recordings and the particularity of the sensors allow a comparison with other two relatively recent medium intensity earthquakes. The assessment is carried out in terms of maximum acceleration amax, measured at certain levels in each structure, spectral acceleration amplitude SAmax and spectral-peak corresponding period. We find that the base-isolation methodology is effective in reducing the response of the building right above the isolating layer, an observation valid for both structures, all components of the recordings, and spectral acceleration values. Moreover, the outcomes from the modal evaluation performed prior to rehabilitation and seismic isolation process are presented, by pointing out a higher newly acquired fundamental period of the isolated structures.