bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Characterization of Thermosensitive and Bioadhesive Ophthalmic Formulations Containing Flurbiprofen Solid Dispersions
Authors: Adısanoğlu Pınar , Özgüney Işık
Published: April 2024

In this study, we aimed to develop thermosensitive and bioadhesive in situ gelling systems containing solid dispersions of flurbiprofen (FB-SDs) using poloxamer 407 (P407) and 188 (P188) for ophthalmic delivery. FB-SDs were prepared with the melt method using P407, characterized by solubility, stability, SEM, DSC, TGA, and XRD analyses. Various formulations of poloxamer mixtures and FB-SDs were prepared using the cold method and P407/P188 (15/26.5%), which gels between 32 and 35 °C, was selected to develop an ophthalmic in situ gelling system. Bioadhesive polymers Carbopol 934P (CP) or carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) were added in three concentrations (0.2, 0.4, and 0.6% (w/w)). Gelation temperature and time, mechanical properties, flow properties, and viscosity values were determined. The in vitro release rate, release kinetics, and the release mechanism of flurbiprofen (FB) from the ophthalmic formulations were analyzed. The results showed that FB-SDs’ solubility in water increased 332-fold compared with FB. The oscillation study results indicated that increasing bioadhesive polymer concentrations decreased gelation temperature and time, and formulations containing CP gel at lower temperatures and in a shorter time. All formulations except F3 and F4 showed Newtonion flow under non-physiological conditions, while all formulations exhibited non-Newtonion pseudoplastic flow under physiological conditions. Viscosity values increased with an increase in bioadhesive polymer concertation at physiological conditions. Texture profile analysis (TPA) showed that CP-containing formulations had higher hardness, compressibility, and adhesiveness, and the gel structure of formulation F4, containing 0.6% CP, exhibited the greatest hardness, compressibility, and adhesiveness. In vitro drug release studies indicated that CP and CMC had no effect below 0.6% concentration. Kinetic evaluation favored first-order and Hixson–Crowell kinetic models. Release mechanism analysis showed that the n values of the formulations were greater than 1 except for formulation F5, suggesting that FB might be released from the ophthalmic formulations by super case II type diffusion. When all the results of this study are evaluated, the in situ gelling formulations prepared with FB-SDs that contained P407/P188 (15/26.5%) and 0.2% CP or 0.2% CMC or 0.4 CMC% (F2, F5, and F6, respectively) could be promising formulations to prolong precorneal residence time and improve ocular bioavailability of FB.
Adapting the Segment Anything Model for Plant Recognition and Automated Phenotypic Parameter Measurement
Authors: Zhang Wenqi , Dang L. Minh , Nguyen Le Quan , Alam Nur , Bui Ngoc Dung , Park Han Yong , Moon Hyeonjoon
Published: April 2024

Traditional phenotyping relies on experts visually examining plants for physical traits like size, color, or disease presence. Measurements are taken manually using rulers, scales, or color charts, with all data recorded by hand. This labor-intensive and time-consuming process poses a significant obstacle to the efficient breeding of new cultivars. Recent innovations in computer vision and machine learning offer potential solutions for accelerating the development of robust and highly effective plant phenotyping. This study introduces an efficient plant recognition framework that leverages the power of the Segment Anything Model (SAM) guided by Explainable Contrastive Language–Image Pretraining (ECLIP). This approach can be applied to a variety of plant types, eliminating the need for labor-intensive manual phenotyping. To enhance the accuracy of plant phenotype measurements, a B-spline curve is incorporated during the plant component skeleton extraction process. The effectiveness of our approach is demonstrated through experimental results, which show that the proposed framework achieves a mean absolute error (MAE) of less than 0.05 for the majority of test samples. Remarkably, this performance is achieved without the need for model training or labeled data, highlighting the practicality and efficiency of the framework.
Effects of Protein Hydrolysate Derived from Anchovy By-Product on Plant Growth of Primrose and Root System Architecture Analysis with Machine Learning
Authors: Tütüncü Mehmet
Published: April 2024

Protein hydrolysates (PHs) derived from waste materials are promising for sustainable practices in agricultural production. This study evaluated the effects of PH enzymatically derived from anchovy by-products on the root system architecture (RSA) and aboveground development of potted primrose. The plants were treated with 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 g/L concentrations of PH by drenching with 100 mL/pot at two-week intervals and irrigated once a week with 100 mL/pot during winter and twice weekly during spring. The results revealed that the 1.5 g/L treatment statistically significantly improved dry weight and leaf area, while the highest leaf chlorophyll content was observed with the 1.0 g/L treatment. The treatments did not influence leaf and flower numbers. Treatment with 1.0 g/L produced the most substantial improvement in root surface area, projected area, volume, length, tips, and forks. Additionally, the study employed machine learning (ML) algorithms, including GP, RF, XGBoost, and an ANN-based MLP. The input variables (root surface area, projected area, volume, length, tips, and forks) were assessed to model and predict the root traits. The ML and ANN algorithms’ R-squared rates were noted in the following order: MLP > GP > RF > XGBoost. These outcomes hold significant implications for enhancing primrose growth.
Addressing the Rehabilitation Needs of Women Experiencing Infertility in Ethiopia: Time for Action
Authors: Araya Bilen Mekonnen , Velez Maria P. , Gelaye Kassahun Alemu , Dyer Silke , Aldersey Heather M.
Published: April 2024

The psychological, social, and financial disabilities caused by infertility are significant for women, particularly those living in low- and middle-income countries such as Ethiopia. Although rehabilitation can be an important form of support for such women, infertility is frequently overlooked as a disability or potential target of rehabilitation interventions. This study aimed to determine what rehabilitation-related services and supports are available for women experiencing infertility in Ethiopia. We used an Interpretive Description design. We purposefully selected fourteen rehabilitation, medical, and policy service providers from diverse institutions across three geographical locations. We used semi-structured questions during our in-person and telephone interviews. The data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis with the assistance of NVivo. We identified five main themes, including (a) policies related to infertility, (b) the concept that disabilities are physically visible fails to recognize infertility, (c) the need for rehabilitation services for women with infertility, (d) the importance of wellness services for women experiencing infertility, and (e) the role of religion in rehabilitation services. In conclusion, it is essential to strengthen the policies around infertility, incorporate rehabilitation services in fertility care, and view infertility as a disabling condition for women who experience it in Ethiopia.
The Dopaminergic Cells in the Median Raphe Region Regulate Social Behavior in Male Mice
Authors: Chaves Tiago , Török Bibiána , Fazekas Csilla Lea , Correia Pedro , Sipos Eszter , Várkonyi Dorottya , Tóth Zsuzsanna E. , Dóra Fanni , Dobolyi Árpád , Zelena Dóra
Published: April 2024

According to previous studies, the median raphe region (MRR) is known to contribute significantly to social behavior. Besides serotonin, there have also been reports of a small population of dopaminergic neurons in this region. Dopamine is linked to reward and locomotion, but very little is known about its role in the MRR. To address that, we first confirmed the presence of dopaminergic cells in the MRR of mice (immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR), and then also in humans (RT-PCR) using healthy donor samples to prove translational relevance. Next, we used chemogenetic technology in mice containing the Cre enzyme under the promoter of the dopamine transporter. With the help of an adeno-associated virus, designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) were expressed in the dopaminergic cells of the MRR to manipulate their activity. Four weeks later, we performed an extensive behavioral characterization 30 min after the injection of the artificial ligand (Clozapine-N-Oxide). Stimulation of the dopaminergic cells in the MRR decreased social interest without influencing aggression and with an increase in social discrimination. Additionally, inhibition of the same cells increased the friendly social behavior during social interaction test. No behavioral changes were detected in anxiety, memory or locomotion. All in all, dopaminergic cells were present in both the mouse and human samples from the MRR, and the manipulation of the dopaminergic neurons in the MRR elicited a specific social response.
Effect of Regulation of Chemerin/Chemokine-like Receptor 1/Stimulator of Interferon Genes Pathway on Astrocyte Recruitment to Aβ Plaques
Authors: Liu Zhen , Chen Yijun , Chen Yanqing , Zheng Jiayi , Wu Wanning , Wang Linlin , Wang Hanqi , Yu Yang
Published: April 2024

Recruitment and accumulation of reactive astrocytes around senile plaques are common pathological features of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), with unclear mechanisms. Chemerin, an adipokine implicated in neuroinflammation, acts through its receptor, chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1), which also functions as a receptor for amyloid β (Aβ). The impact of the chemerin/CMKLR1 axis on astrocyte migration towards Aβ plaques is unknown. Here we investigated the effect of CMKLR1 on astrocyte migration around Aβ deposition in APP/PS1 mice with Cmklr1 knockout (APP/PS1-Cmklr1−/−). CMKLR1-expressed astrocytes were upregulated in the cortices and hippocampi of 9-month-old APP/PS1 mice. Chemerin mainly co-localized with neurons, and its expression was reduced in the brains of APP/PS1 mice, compared to WT mice. CMKLR1 deficiency decreased astrocyte colocalization with Aβ plaques in APP/PS1-Cmklr1−/− mice, compared to APP/PS1 mice. Activation of the chemerin/CMKLR1 axis promoted the migration of primary cultured astrocytes and U251 cells, and reduced astrocyte clustering induced by Aβ42. Mechanistic studies revealed that chemerin/CMKLR1 activation induced STING phosphorylation. Deletion of STING attenuated the promotion of the chemerin/CMKLR1 axis relative to astrocyte migration and abolished the inhibitory effect of chemerin on Aβ42-induced astrocyte clustering. These findings suggest the involvement of the chemerin/CMKLR1/STING pathway in the regulation of astrocyte migration and recruitment to Aβ plaques/Aβ42.
Duocarmycin SA Reduces Proliferation and Increases Apoptosis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells In Vitro
Authors: Chen William A. , Williams Terry G. , So Leena , Drew Natalie , Fang Jie , Ochoa Pedro , Nguyen Nhi , Jawhar Yasmeen , Otiji Jide , Duerksen-Hughes Penelope J. , Reeves Mark E. , Casiano Carlos A. , Jin Hongjian , Dovat Sinisa , Yang Jun , Boyle Kristopher E. , Francis-Boyle Olivia L.
Published: April 2024

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematological malignancy that is characterized by an expansion of immature myeloid precursors. Despite therapeutic advances, the prognosis of AML patients remains poor and there is a need for the evaluation of promising therapeutic candidates to treat the disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of duocarmycin Stable A (DSA) in AML cells in vitro. We hypothesized that DSA would induce DNA damage in the form of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and exert cytotoxic effects on AML cells within the picomolar range. Human AML cell lines Molm-14 and HL-60 were used to perform 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), DNA DSBs, cell cycle, 5-ethynyl-2-deoxyuridine (EdU), colony formation unit (CFU), Annexin V, RNA sequencing and other assays described in this study. Our results showed that DSA induced DNA DSBs, induced cell cycle arrest at the G2M phase, reduced proliferation and increased apoptosis in AML cells. Additionally, RNA sequencing results showed that DSA regulates genes that are associated with cellular processes such as DNA repair, G2M checkpoint and apoptosis. These results suggest that DSA is efficacious in AML cells and is therefore a promising potential therapeutic candidate that can be further evaluated for the treatment of AML.
Whole-Transcriptome Sequencing of Knee Joint Cartilage from Kashin–Beck Disease and Osteoarthritis Patients
Authors: Han Lixin , Cheng Bolun , Wei Wenming , Liu Li , Cheng Shiqiang , Liu Huan , Jia Yumeng , Wen Yan , Zhang Feng
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive understanding of similarities and differences in mRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs within cartilage for Kashin–Beck disease (KBD) compared to osteoarthritis (OA). We conducted a comparison of the expression profiles of mRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs via whole-transcriptome sequencing in eight KBD and ten OA individuals. To facilitate functional annotation-enriched analysis for differentially expressed (DE) genes, DE lncRNAs, and DE circRNAs, we employed bioinformatic analysis utilizing Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG. Additionally, using quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), we validated the expression levels of four cartilage-related genes in chondrocytes. We identified a total of 43 DE mRNAs, 1451 DE lncRNAs, and 305 DE circRNAs in KBD cartilage tissue compared to OA (q value < 0.05; |log2FC| > 1). We also performed competing endogenous RNA network analysis, which identified a total of 65 lncRNA-mRNA interactions and 4714 miRNA-circRNA interactions. In particular, we observed that circRNA12218 had binding sites for three miRNAs targeting ACAN, while circRNA12487 had binding sites for seven miRNAs targeting COL2A1. Our results add a novel set of genes and non-coding RNAs that could potentially serve as candidate diagnostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets for KBD patients.
Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of American Elderberry Juice for Improving Cognition and Inflammation in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Curtis Ashley F. , Musich Madison , Costa Amy N. , Gonzales Joshua , Gonzales Hyeri , Ferguson Bradley J. , Kille Briana , Thomas Andrew L. , Wei Xing , Liu Pei , Greenlief C. Michael , Shenker Joel I. , Beversdorf David Q.
Published: April 2024

Despite data showing that nutritional interventions high in antioxidant/anti-inflammatory properties (anthocyanin-rich foods, such as blueberries/elderberries) may decrease risk of memory loss and cognitive decline, evidence for such effects in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is limited. This study examined preliminary effects of American elderberry (Sambucus nigra subsp. canadensis) juice on cognition and inflammatory markers in patients with MCI. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo–controlled trial, patients with MCI (n = 24, Mage = 76.33 ± 6.95) received American elderberry (n = 11) or placebo (n = 13) juice (5 mL orally 3 times a day) for 6 months. At baseline, 3 months, and 6 months, patients completed tasks measuring global cognition, verbal memory, language, visuospatial cognitive flexibility/problem solving, and memory. A subsample (n = 12, 7 elderberry/5 placebo) provided blood samples to measure serum inflammatory markers. Multilevel models examined effects of the condition (elderberry/placebo), time (baseline/3 months/6 months), and condition by time interactions on cognition/inflammation outcomes. Attrition rates for elderberry (18%) and placebo (15%) conditions were fairly low. The dosage compliance (elderberry—97%; placebo—97%) and completion of cognitive (elderberry—88%; placebo—87%) and blood-based (elderberry—100%; placebo—100%) assessments was high. Elderberry (not placebo) trended (p = 0.09) towards faster visuospatial problem solving performance from baseline to 6 months. For the elderberry condition, there were significant or significantly trending decreases over time across several markers of low-grade peripheral inflammation, including vasorin, prenylcysteine oxidase 1, and complement Factor D. Only one inflammatory marker showed an increase over time (alpha-2-macroglobin). In contrast, for the placebo, several inflammatory marker levels increased across time (L-lactate dehydrogenase B chain, complement Factor D), with one showing deceased levels over time (L-lactate dehydrogenase A chain). Daily elderberry juice consumption in patients with MCI is feasible and well tolerated and may provide some benefit to visuospatial cognitive flexibility. Preliminary findings suggest elderberry juice may reduce low-grade inflammation compared to a placebo–control. These promising findings support the need for larger, more definitive prospective studies with longer follow-ups to better understand mechanisms of action and the clinical utility of elderberries for potentially mitigating cognitive decline.
AAV-Mediated CAG-Targeting Selectively Reduces Polyglutamine-Expanded Protein and Attenuates Disease Phenotypes in a Spinocerebellar Ataxia Mouse Model
Authors: Niewiadomska-Cimicka Anna , Fievet Lorraine , Surdyka Magdalena , Jesion Ewelina , Keime Céline , Singer Elisabeth , Eisenmann Aurélie , Kalinowska-Poska Zaneta , Nguyen Hoa Huu Phuc , Fiszer Agnieszka , Figiel Maciej , Trottier Yvon
Published: April 2024

Polyglutamine (polyQ)-encoding CAG repeat expansions represent a common disease-causing mutation responsible for several dominant spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs). PolyQ-expanded SCA proteins are toxic for cerebellar neurons, with Purkinje cells (PCs) being the most vulnerable. RNA interference (RNAi) reagents targeting transcripts with expanded CAG reduce the level of various mutant SCA proteins in an allele-selective manner in vitro and represent promising universal tools for treating multiple CAG/polyQ SCAs. However, it remains unclear whether the therapeutic targeting of CAG expansion can be achieved in vivo and if it can ameliorate cerebellar functions. Here, using a mouse model of SCA7 expressing a mutant Atxn7 allele with 140 CAGs, we examined the efficacy of short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) targeting CAG repeats expressed from PHP.eB adeno-associated virus vectors (AAVs), which were introduced into the brain via intravascular injection. We demonstrated that shRNAs carrying various mismatches with the CAG target sequence reduced the level of polyQ-expanded ATXN7 in the cerebellum, albeit with varying degrees of allele selectivity and safety profile. An shRNA named A4 potently reduced the level of polyQ-expanded ATXN7, with no effect on normal ATXN7 levels and no adverse side effects. Furthermore, A4 shRNA treatment improved a range of motor and behavioral parameters 23 weeks after AAV injection and attenuated the disease burden of PCs by preventing the downregulation of several PC-type-specific genes. Our results show the feasibility of the selective targeting of CAG expansion in the cerebellum using a blood–brain barrier-permeable vector to attenuate the disease phenotype in an SCA mouse model. Our study represents a significant advancement in developing CAG-targeting strategies as a potential therapy for SCA7 and possibly other CAG/polyQ SCAs.
Transcriptomic and Metatranscriptomic Analyses Provide New Insights into the Response of the Pea Aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum (Hemiptera: Aphididae) to Acetamiprid
Authors: Cai Zhiyan , Zhao Xuhui , Qian Yuxin , Zhang Kun , Guo Shigang , Kan Yunchao , Wang Yuqing , Ayra-Pardo Camilo , Li Dandan
Published: April 2024

Acetamiprid is a broad-spectrum neonicotinoid insecticide used in agriculture to control aphids. While recent studies have documented resistance to acetamiprid in several aphid species, the underlying mechanisms are still not fully understood. In this study, we analyzed the transcriptome and metatranscriptome of a laboratory strain of the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris, 1776), with reduced susceptibility to acetamiprid after nine generations of exposure to identify candidate genes and the microbiome involved in the adaptation process. Sequencing of the transcriptome of both selected (RS) and non-selected (SS) strains allowed the identification of 14,858 genes and 4938 new transcripts. Most of the differentially expressed genes were associated with catalytic activities and metabolic pathways involving carbon and fatty acids. Specifically, alcohol-forming fatty acyl-CoA reductase (FAR) and acyl-CoA synthetase (ACSF2), both involved in the synthesis of epidermal wax layer components, were significantly upregulated in RS, suggesting that adaptation to acetamiprid involves the synthesis of a thicker protective layer. Metatranscriptomic analyses revealed subtle shifts in the microbiome of RS. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of acetamiprid adaptation by the pea aphid and provide new insights for aphid control strategies.
Identification of Candidate Genes Associated with Type-II Sex Pheromone Biosynthesis in the Tea Geometrid (Ectropis obliqua) (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)
Authors: Xu Changxia , Fu Nanxia , Cai Xiaoming , Li Zhaoqun , Bian Lei , Xiu Chunli , Chen Zongmao , Ma Long , Luo Zongxiu
Published: April 2024

Ectropis obliqua, a notorious tea pest, produces a Type-II sex pheromone blend for mate communication. This blend contains (Z,Z,Z)-3,6,9-octadecatriene, (Z,Z)-3,9-cis-6,7-epoxy-octadecadiene, and (Z,Z)-3,9-cis-6,7-epoxy-nonadecadiene. To elucidate the genes related to the biosynthesis of these sex pheromone components, transcriptome sequencing of the female E. obliqua pheromone gland and the abdomen without pheromone gland was performed. Comparative RNAseq analyses identified 52 putative genes, including 7 fatty acyl-CoA elongases (ELOs), 9 fatty acyl-CoA reductases (FARs), 1 decarbonylase (DEC), 3 lipophorins (LIPs), and 32 cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs). Tissue expression profiles revealed that two ELOs (ELO3 and ELO5), two FARs (FAR2 and FAR9), one DEC (CYP4G173), and one LIP (LIP1) displayed either abdomen-centric or -specific expression, suggesting potential roles in sex pheromone biosynthesis within the oenocytes of E. obliqua. Furthermore, the tissue expression patterns, combined with phylogenetic analysis, showed that CYP340BD1, which was expressed specifically and predominantly only in the pheromone gland, was clustered with the previously reported epoxidases, highlighting its potential role in the epoxidation of the unsaturated polytriene sex pheromone components. Collectively, our research provides valuable insights into the genes linked to sex pheromone biosynthesis.
Special Considerations for Advanced Heart Failure Surgeries: Durable Left Ventricular Devices and Heart Transplantation
Authors: Akbar Armaan F. , Zhou Alice L. , Wang Annie , Feng Amy S. N. , Rizaldi Alexandra A. , Ruck Jessica M. , Kilic Ahmet
Published: April 2024

Heart transplantation and durable left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) represent two definitive therapies for end-stage heart failure in the modern era. Despite technological advances, both treatment modalities continue to experience unique risks that impact surgical and perioperative decision-making. Here, we review special populations and factors that impact risk in LVAD and heart transplant surgery and examine critical decisions in the management of these patients. As both heart transplantation and the use of durable LVADs as destination therapy continue to increase, these considerations will be of increasing relevance in managing advanced heart failure and improving outcomes.
Zinc Oxide-Based Nanomaterials for Microbiostatic Activities: A Review
Authors: Reda Alemtsehay Tesfay , Park Jae Yeon , Park Yong Tae
Published: April 2024

The world is fighting infectious diseases. Therefore, effective antimicrobials are required to prevent the spread of microbes and protect human health. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nano-materials are known for their antimicrobial activities. Because of their distinctive physical and chemical characteristics, they can be used in medical and environmental applications. ZnO-based composites are among the leading sources of antimicrobial research. They are effective at killing (microbicidal) and inhibiting the growth (microbiostatic) of numerous microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Although most studies have focused on the microbicidal features, there is a lack of reviews on their microbiostatic effects. This review provides a detailed overview of available reports on the microbiostatic activities of ZnO-based nano-materials against different microorganisms. Additionally, the factors that affect the efficacy of these materials, their time course, and a comparison of the available antimicrobials are highlighted in this review. The basic properties of ZnO, challenges of working with microorganisms, and working mechanisms of microbiostatic activities are also examined. This review underscores the importance of further research to better understand ZnO-based nano-materials for controlling microbial growth.
Macroeconomic Dynamics in the Greek Economy during the Pre- and Post-Euro Adoption Periods
Authors: Barkoulas Dimitrios R. , Chionis Dionysios
Published: April 2024

This study examines the relationships between Greek macroeconomic variables, examining before and after the euro’s introduction as a currency. We conducted an extensive analysis from 1980 to 2019, examining various economic indicators such as government expenditure, unemployment rates, taxation, inflation, and national debt, employing causal and correlation analysis and econometric modeling with and without time-varying effects. The results revealed a significant correlation between the introduction of the euro and a tighter relationship between government spending and unemployment levels, while one more remarkable point was that higher government spending or debt reduction initiatives appeared to positively impact joblessness, particularly in the context of the euro. Our research underscored the correlation between national debt and government spending as increased debt led to reduced government expenditure and vice versa. Unemployment cited an increased impact on government spending right after the euro adoption, and on the other hand, the effect of unemployment on government spending decreased. The debt–government spending nexus was decreasing for many years before the euro adoption, while just before the euro adoption, the relationship between debt and government spending was rather stable. Finally, during the euro adoption, the effect of inflation on tax increased, while the corresponding inflation tax remained stable. Our findings have significant implications for policymakers shaping the economic strategies in Greece as they point out the necessity for stable and balanced approaches that manage government spending and debt to address unemployment effectively.
A Systematic Review of Eye-Tracking Technology in Second Language Research
Authors: Hu Xin , Aryadoust Vahid
Published: April 2024

Eye-tracking has become increasingly popular in second language (L2) research. In this study, we systematically reviewed 111 eye-tracking studies published in 17 L2 journals to explore the application and replicability of eye-tracking technology in L2 research. The results revealed eight areas of application of eye-tracking in L2 research, among which grammar and vocabulary were the most frequently examined lines of inquiry. We also identified three types of cognitive mechanisms investigated in L2 eye-tracking studies: attention, higher cognitive processes, and cognitive load. Attention was predominantly measured via fixation temporal indices, while higher cognitive processes were frequently measured by using fixation count and fixation temporal measures. In addition, the measures adopted to assess cognitive load mainly depended on the task type. Finally, with respect to the replicability of the studies, transparent reporting practices were evaluated based on 33 features of replicable studies. We found that more than 95% of the reviewed studies reported less than 70% of the information essential for future replication studies. We suggest that the reporting of the information critical to conducting replicable L2 eye-tracking research needs improvement in transparency and completeness. The implications of this study are discussed.
Assessing the Impact of Healthcare 4.0 Technologies on Healthcare Supply Chain Management: A Multi-Criteria Evaluation Framework
Authors: Oluwadare Ayoninuoluwa , Akintayo Busola Dorcas , Babatunde Olubayo Moses , Olanrewaju Oludolapo Akanni
Published: April 2024

Background: Healthcare 4.0 has transformed supply chain management in the healthcare sector, but there is a lack of comprehensive frameworks to evaluate the impact of Healthcare 4.0 technologies on sector operations, particularly in developing countries. Methods: This study introduces a multi-criteria framework that synergically combines the techno-economic implications of Healthcare 4.0 technologies to improve healthcare supply chain management. The proposed approach innovatively integrates fuzzy VIKOR and Entropy methods to handle data vagueness and uncertainty, using data collected from healthcare supply chain specialists in Lagos, Nigeria. Results: The developed framework identifies the most and least critical technical and economic parameters for Healthcare 4.0 implementation in healthcare supply chain management. It also determines the suitability of different Healthcare 4.0 technologies for supply chain management in the healthcare sector. Conclusions: The main innovation of this study lies in the development of a comprehensive and context-specific framework for evaluating Healthcare 4.0 technologies in healthcare supply chains. The framework offers a new perspective on technology evaluation and provides practical insights for decision-makers. The findings contribute to advancing knowledge and practice in this field, promoting the proper adoption of Healthcare 4.0 technologies in healthcare, particularly in developing countries.
Calorimetric Studies and Thermodynamic Modeling of Ag–Mg–Ti Liquid Alloys
Authors: Gozdur Weronika , Gąsior Władysław , Zrobek Maciej , Budziak Andrzej , Dębski Roman , Gierlotka Wojciech , Pęska Magda , Polański Marek , Dębski Adam
Published: April 2024

Due to the absence of thermodynamic data concerning the Ag–Mg–Ti system in the existing literature, this study aims to fill this gap by offering the outcomes of calorimetric investigations conducted on ternary liquid solutions of these alloys. The measurements were performed using the drop calorimetry method at temperatures of 1294 K and 1297 K for the liquid solutions with the following constant mole fraction ratio: xAg/xMg = 9/1, 7/3, 1/1, 3/7 [(Ag0.9Mg0.1)1−xTix, (Ag0.7Mg0.3)1−xTix, (Ag0.5Mg0.5)1−xTix, (Ag0.3Mg0.7)1−xTix)], and xAg/xTi = 19/1 [(Ag0.95Ti0.05)1−xMgx]. The results show that the mixing enthalpy change is characterized by negative deviations from the ideal solutions and the observed minimal value equals −13.444 kJ/mol for the Ag0.95Ti0.05 alloy and xMg = 0.4182. Next, based on the thermodynamic properties of binary systems described by the Redlich–Kister model and the determined experimental data from the calorimetric measurements, the ternary optimized parameters for the Ag–Mg–Ti liquid phase were calculated by the Muggianu model. Homemade software (TerGexHm 1.0) was used to optimize the calorimetric data using the least squares method. Next, the partial and molar thermodynamic functions were calculated and are presented in the tables and figures. Moreover, this work presents, for comparative purposes, the values of the enthalpy of mixing of liquid Ag–Mg–Ti alloys, which were calculated using Toop’s model. It was found that the best agreement between the modeled and experimental data was observed for the cross-sections xAg/xTi = 19/1 [(Ag0.95Ti0.05)1−xMgx] and xAg/xMg = 9/1 [(Ag0.9Mg0.1)1−xTix]. The results of the experiments presented in this paper are the first step in the investigation and future evaluation of the thermodynamics of phases and the calculation of the phase diagram of the silver–magnesium–titanium system.
The Solvent Role for the Decomposition of Paracetamol in Distilled and Drinking Water by Pure and Ag-Modified TiO2 Sol–Gel Powders
Authors: Bachvarova-Nedelcheva Albena , Iordanova Reni , Kaneva Nina
Published: April 2024

In this study, pure TiO2 gels were synthesized by applying the sol–gel method, using Ti(IV) butoxide with the addition of two different solvents, namely ethylene glycol (EG) and isopropanol (isop), with only air moisture present. It was established using XRD that the gel prepared with the addition of EG was amorphous even at 400 °C, while the other gel was amorphous up to 300 °C. It was found that TiO2 (anatase) had a dominant crystalline phase during heating to 600 °C, while at 700 °C, TiO2 (rutile) appeared. The as-obtained powdered materials were annealed at 500 °C and subsequently underwent photocatalytic tests with paracetamol. Additionally, the TiO2 samples were modified with Ag+ co-catalysts (10−2 M), using photofixation by UV illumination. The photocatalytic activity of the Ag-modified powders was also tested in the photodegradation of a commonly used paracetamol in aqueous solution under UV light illumination. The obtained data exhibited that the annealed samples had better photocatalytic efficiency and decomposed paracetamol faster in comparison to the non-annealed sol–gel powders. The highest degradation efficiency was observed for the TBT/isop/Ag material, with degradation efficiencies average values of 65.59% and 75.61% paracetamol achieved after the third cycle of photocatalytic treatment. The co-catalytically modified powders had higher photocatalytic efficiency in comparison to the pure nanosized powders. Moreover, the sol–gel powders of TBT/EG, TBT/EG/Ag (10−2 M), TBT/isop, and TBT/isop/Ag (10−2 M) demonstrated the ability to retain their photocatalytic activity even after three cycles of use, suggesting that they could find practical use in the treatment of pharmaceutical wastewater. The observed photocatalytic efficiency and positive impact of silver make the prepared powders a desirable choice for pharmaceutical drug degradation, helping to promote environmentally friendly and effective wastewater treatment technology.
First-Principles Study of Doped CdX(X = Te, Se) Compounds: Enhancing Thermoelectric Properties
Authors: Jin Junfeng , Lv Fang , Cao Wei , Wang Ziyu
Published: April 2024

Isovalent doping offers a method to enhance the thermoelectric properties of semiconductors, yet its influence on the phonon structure and propagation is often overlooked. Here, we take CdX (X=Te, Se) compounds as an example to study the role of isovalent doping in thermoelectrics by first-principles calculations in combination with the Boltzmann transport theory. The electronic and phononic properties of Cd8Se8, Cd8Se7Te, Cd8Te8, and Cd8Te7Se are compared. The results suggest that isovalent doping with CdX significantly improves the thermoelectric performance. Due to the similar properties of Se and Te atoms, the electronic properties remain unaffected. Moreover, doping enhances anharmonic phonon scattering, leading to a reduction in lattice thermal conductivity. Our results show that optimized p-type(n-type) ZT values can reach 3.13 (1.33) and 2.51 (1.21) for Cd8Te7Se and Cd8Se7Te at 900 K, respectively. This research illuminates the potential benefits of strategically employing isovalent doping to enhance the thermoelectric properties of CdX compounds.
Application of Alcohols to Inhibit the Formation of Ca(II) Dodecyl Sulfate Precipitate in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Bús Csaba , Kocsis Marianna , Ágoston Áron , Kukovecz Ákos , Kónya Zoltán , Sipos Pál
Published: April 2024

The presence of alkaline earth cations, in particular, Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions in brine, causes undesired effects in solutions containing anionic surfactants because of precipitate formation. In the present study, an anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), was investigated, focusing on the determination of various properties (surface tension, critical micelle concentration, micelle size, turbidity) in the presence of alcohols and, in particular, the inhibition of the precipitation of SDS with calcium ions. The calcium ions were added to the surfactant in increasing concentrations (3.0–10.0 g/L), and short-carbon-chain alcohols (methanol, ethanol, n-propanol and n-butanol) were used to shift the onset of precipitate formation. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) of SDS in the presence of alcohols was also determined. It was established that among these alcohols, methanol and ethanol did not exert significant effects on the solubility of the Ca(DS)2 precipitate, while n-propanol and n-butanol were found to be much more efficient inhibitors. In addition, all the alcohols in the applied concentration range (up to 20 V/V%) were found to decrease the critical micelle concentration of SDS.
(Ba0.55Sr0.45)1−xLaxTi1.01O3-Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 Positive Temperature Coefficient Resistivity Ceramics with Low Curie Temperature (~−15 °C)
Authors: Xu Wanlu , Wang Wenwu , Zhang Xiaoshan , Yu Ping
Published: April 2024

Positive temperature coefficient of electrical resistivity (PTCR) materials with low Curie temperature have been paid increasing attention lately. In this study, PTCR materials with a Curie temperature of approximately −15 °C were investigated by La3+ doping Ba0.55Sr0.45TiO3 ceramics. It could be expected to meet the requirements of thermal management systems for low-temperature control. In addition, a trace amount of Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 (BNT) was employed to improve the resistivity and the PTCR performance. A significant PTCR effect was achieved with a high resistivity jump of nearly four orders of magnitude, a high temperature coefficient of ~28.76%/°C, and a narrow transition temperature span of 22 °C in the (Ba0.55Sr0.45)0.99875La0.00125Ti1.01O3-0.0025Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 ceramics. The PTCR enhancement mechanism of BNT is discussed.
The Influence of the Setup on the Result of Measuring the Roundness of an Anuloid Surface
Authors: Görög Augustín , Kuruc Marcel
Published: April 2024

In engineering practice, anuloid surfaces are produced that are subject to strict requirements in terms of accuracy (e.g., in the bearing industry). Roundness is also often measured. The accuracy of the roundness measurement does not only depend on the accuracy of a particular metrological system. The setting of the component on the measuring device can also have a significant influence on the accuracy of the measurement. The axis of the measured surface must be perpendicular to the section in which the roundness is measured. Tilting the measured surface causes a systematic measurement error, which depends on the size of the tilt angle and the parameters of the measured surface. This study presents mathematical relations for the calculation of this error when measuring roundness on an anuloid surface. Mathematical relations for the internal and external surfaces formed by the inner and outer parts of the anuloid are derived herein. There is also a theoretical analysis of the influence of inclination and the parameters of the measured surface on the size of this error. Theoretically calculated values were compared with practically measured values of roundness. The error had a negative effect on the accuracy of the roundness measurement. It affected the roundness value, the second harmonic component, and also the roundness profile itself.
Research on the Aerodynamic Performance and Collaborative Optimization Design of the Full-Scale Compact Inlet Chamber of a Nuclear-Powered Steam Turbine
Authors: Zhang Lei , Jiang Wei , Xie Luotao , Chen Guobing
Published: April 2024

In nuclear-powered steam turbines, the aerodynamic performance of the inlet chamber tends to be contradictory to the compact design, which makes it difficult to achieve optimal efficiency and power in a nuclear-powered steam turbine. In this study, the quantitative correlation between compact design and aerodynamic performance was investigated to reveal the interaction mechanism between the aerodynamic performance of the inlet chamber of the steam turbine with its compactness. First, the effects of peripheral quantity and arrangement of inlets in the chamber inlet on its aerodynamic performance were studied. The results indicated that the proposed cross configuration exhibited optimized aerodynamic performance in multiple aspects. Then, the effects of two compactness indices (inlet/outlet area ratio and axial spacing at outlet) on the aerodynamic performance of the inlet chamber were investigated. The results indicated that the volume of the inlet chamber was proportional to the inlet/outlet area ratio, and an appropriate design of the inlet chamber can achieve compactness without significantly affecting its aerodynamic performance. In addition, the influencing mechanism of the compact optimization design on the aerodynamic performances of the inlet chamber was revealed. This study provides references for optimization designing an effective and compacted inlet chamber of steam turbines.
Stability Analysis and Hopf Bifurcation for the Brusselator Reaction–Diffusion System with Gene Expression Time Delay
Authors: Alfifi Hassan Y. , Almuaddi Saad M.
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates the effect of a gene expression time delay on the Brusselator model with reaction and diffusion terms in one dimension. We obtain ODE systems analytically by using the Galerkin method. We determine a condition that assists in showing the existence of theoretical results. Full maps of the Hopf bifurcation regions of the stability analysis are studied numerically and theoretically. The influences of two different sources of diffusion coefficients and gene expression time delay parameters on the bifurcation diagram are examined and plotted. In addition, the effect of delay and diffusion values on all other free parameters in this system is shown. They can significantly affect the stability regions for both control parameter concentrations through the reaction process. As a result, as the gene expression time delay increases, both control concentration values increase, while the Hopf points for both diffusion coefficient parameters decrease. These values can impact solutions in the bifurcation regions, causing the region of instability to grow. In addition, the Hopf bifurcation points for the diffusive and non-diffusive cases as well as delay and non-delay cases are studied for both control parameter concentrations. Finally, various examples and bifurcation diagrams, periodic oscillations, and 2D phase planes are provided. There is close agreement between the theoretical and numerical solutions in all cases.
Temporal High-Order Accurate Numerical Scheme for the Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert Equation
Authors: He Jiayun , Yang Lei , Zhan Jiajun
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a family of temporal high-order accurate numerical schemes for the Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert (LLG) equation is proposed. The proposed schemes are developed utilizing the Gauss–Legendre quadrature method, enabling them to achieve arbitrary high-order time discretization. Furthermore, the geometrical properties of the LLG equation, such as the preservation of constant magnetization magnitude and the Lyapunov structure, are investigated based on the proposed discrete schemes. It is demonstrated that the magnetization magnitude remains constant with an error of (2p+3) order in time when utilizing a (2p+2)th-order discrete scheme. Additionally, the preservation of the Lyapunov structure is achieved with a second-order error in the temporal step size. Numerical experiments and simulations effectively verify the performance of our proposed algorithm and validate our theoretical analysis.
Combining Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average Model and Gaussian Process Regression to Improve Stock Price Forecast
Authors: Tu Shiying , Huang Jiehu , Mu Huailong , Lu Juan , Li Ying
Published: April 2024

Stock market performance is one key indicator of the economic condition of a country, and stock price forecasting is important for investments and financial risk management. However, the inherent nonlinearity and complexity in stock price movements imply that simple conventional modeling techniques are not adequate for stock price forecasting. In this paper, we present a hybrid model (ARIMA + GPRC) which combines the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model and Gaussian process regression (GPR) with a combined covariance function (GPRC). The proposed hybrid model can account for both the linearity and nonlinearity in stock price movements. Based on daily data on three stocks listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE), it is found that GPRC outperforms GPR with a single covariance function. Further, the proposed hybrid model is compared with the ARIMA model, artificial neural network (ANN), and GPRC model. Based on the forecasting trend and the statistical performance of the four models, the ARIMA + GPRC model is found to be the dominant model for stock price forecasting and can significantly improve forecasting performance.
The Effect of Maternal Overweight/Obesity on Serum and Breastmilk Leptin, and Its Associations with Body Composition, Cardiometabolic Health Indices, and Maternal Diet: The BLOOM Study
Authors: Zielinska-Pukos Monika , Kopiasz Łukasz , Hamulka Jadwiga
Published: April 2024

In overweight and obese patients, elevated serum and breastmilk leptin concentrations are observed, with serum leptin also being likely affected by the diet. We analyzed serum and breastmilk leptin in normal weight (NW) and overweight/obese (OW/OB) mothers, and evaluated its associations with (1) maternal anthropometric parameters; (2) markers of cardiometabolic health; and (3) the maternal diet. The BLOOM (Breastmilk and the Link to Overweight/Obesity and Maternal diet) study was conducted among 40 women (n = 20 OW/OB; n = 20, NW) who were exclusively or predominantly breastfeeding for 15.5 ± 1.2 (OW/OB group) weeks. We collected 24 h breastmilk and fasting blood samples for leptin analysis by ELISA. Maternal dietary habits were evaluated using a 3-day dietary record and food frequency questionnaire, which were used to calculate the Polish-adapted Mediterranean Diet score. Maternal anthropometric measurements and DEXA scans were performed, and anthropometric and cardiometabolic indices were calculated. The OW mothers had 1.4 times higher serum levels, while OB mothers had 4.5 and 6.2 higher serum and breastmilk leptin levels, respectively, in comparison to the NW mothers. The FM% was correlated with serum and breastmilk leptin levels (r = 0.878, r = 0.638). Serum leptin was associated with markers of cardiometabolic health such as AIP, CMI, and VAI in the NW mothers, and with LAP in the OW/OB mothers. Higher energy, fructose intake and adherence to the Mediterranean diet were associated with serum leptin in the NW mothers (β = 0.323, 0.039–0.608; β = 0.318, 0.065–0.572; β = 0.279, 0.031–0.528); meanwhile, higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet could protect against elevated breastmilk leptin concentrations in OW/OB mothers (β = −0.444, −0.839–−0.050), even after adjustment for FM%. Our results suggest a potential association between maternal serum leptin concentrations and cardiometabolic health. In addition, we confirm the importance of healthy dietary patterns in the improvement of breastmilk composition.