bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Equity” in genomic health policies: a review of policies in the international arena
Authors: Basnayake Ralalage Prabhathi , Mitchell Tala , Zammit Claire , Baynam Gareth , Kowal Emma , Masey Libby , McGaughran Julie , Boughtwood Tiffany , Jenkins Misty , Pratt Gregory , Ferdinand Angeline
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The field of genomics is rapidly evolving and has made significant impact on the diagnosis and understanding of rare and genetic diseases, in guiding precision medicine in cancer treatment, and in providing personalized risk assessment for disease development and treatment responses. However, according to the literature, there is widespread socio economic and racial inequities in the diagnosis, treatment, and in the use of genomic medicine services. This policy review sets out to explore the concept of equity in access to genomic care, the level of inclusion of equity and how it is addressed and what mechanisms are in place to achieve equity in genomic care in the international health policy.

Methods

A systematic search for genomic policies was conducted using 3 databases. In addition, General and Specific Policy Repositories, Global Consortia in Genomic Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centers in Genomics, Australian Genomics, Public Policy Projects, Global Genomic Medicine Consortium (G2MC), G2MC conference Oct 2023 and National Human Genome Research Institute databases were searched using the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Seventeen policies were selected and analyzed using the EquiFrame.

Results

The Core Concept of access is highly cited in most of the selected policies. The CCs that are covered to a lesser degree are participation, quality, coordination of services, cultural responsiveness and non-discrimination. The CCs of liberty and entitlement are not addressed in any of the selected policies. The coverage of vulnerable communities in the policies varies from country to country.

Discussion

Genomic health science is rapidly evolving and presents a major challenge for policies to remain current and effectively address new discoveries in the field. There is a relative dearth of policies that focus on clinical genetic services which may reflect a gap in policy and policy research translation and implementation. Recommendations for countries, irrespective of their economic and social contexts, include conducting regular policy reviews to accommodate the advances in genomics field and inclusion of specific mechanisms to achieve equity in genomic health. Insights and experiences in achieving healthcare equity in HICs and LMICs can offer valuable lessons for each other.
Artificial intelligence: clinical applications and future advancement in gastrointestinal cancers
Authors: Akbari Abolfazl , Adabi Maryam , Masoodi Mohsen , Namazi Abolfazl , Mansouri Fatemeh , Tabaeian Seidamir Pasha , Shokati Eshkiki Zahra
Published: December 2024

One of the foremost causes of global healthcare burden is cancer of the gastrointestinal tract. The medical records, lab results, radiographs, endoscopic images, tissue samples, and medical histories of patients with gastrointestinal malignancies provide an enormous amount of medical data. There are encouraging signs that the advent of artificial intelligence could enhance the treatment of gastrointestinal issues with this data. Deep learning algorithms can swiftly and effectively analyze unstructured, high-dimensional data, including texts, images, and waveforms, while advanced machine learning approaches could reveal new insights into disease risk factors and phenotypes. In summary, artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize various features of gastrointestinal cancer care, such as early detection, diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis. This paper highlights some of the many potential applications of artificial intelligence in this domain. Additionally, we discuss the present state of the discipline and its potential future developments.
The hidden ontological variable in quantum harmonic oscillators
Authors: ’t Hooft Gerard
Published: December 2024

The standard quantum mechanical harmonic oscillator has an exact, dual relationship with a completely classical system: a classical particle running along a circle. Duality here means that there is a one-to-one relation between all observables in one model, and the observables of the other model. Thus the duality we find, appears to be in conflict with the usual assertion that classical theories can never reproduce quantum effects as observed in many quantum models. We suggest that there must be more of such relationships, but we study only this one as a prototype. It reveals how classical hidden variables may work. The classical states can form the basis of Hilbert space that can be adopted in describing the quantum model. Wave functions in the quantum system generate probability distributions in the classical one. One finds that, where the classical system always obeys the rule probability in = probability out, the same probabilities are quantum probabilities in the quantum system. It is shown how the quantum x and p operators in a quantum oscillator can be given a classical meaning. It is explained how an apparent clash with quantum logic can be rationalized.
Local food system disruptions: insights from the effect of COVID-19 on the livelihood of smallholder farmers in Koga irrigation scheme, Amara Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebreyes Million , Müller-Mahn Detlef , Teklu Abyiot , Simane Belay
Published: December 2024

The primary goal of this paper is to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Ethiopia. The study focused on how the pandemic impacted farmers’ access to markets, inputs, and labor, as well as their income and food security. The primary data consisted of panel data collected in three waves between 2018 and 2022. The three waves of data included pre-pandemic face-to-face interviews in August 2018, followed by phone surveys in June 2020 and November 2022. The study included a sample of 107 households from eight villages. The quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and an econometric analysis of difference-in-difference (DID) technique. The results show that the majority of farmers (76.6%) reported that COVID-19 has had a significant impact on their ability to purchase food from the market due to a variety of factors, including increased prices, limited availability of certain food items, disruption in supply chains, or reduced income for purchasing food. Disruptions in income-generating activities seriously affected farmers and their families, including financial hardship and food security concerns. Hence, 37, 32, 25, and 6 percent of farmers were mildly food secure, mildly food insecure, moderately food insecure, and severely food insecure, respectively. Reduction in household income was one of the most critical challenges farmers faced during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic that affected food insecurity. As expected, the spread of the pandemic significantly reduced agricultural labor participation. Hence, households relying on income from agricultural labor have experienced worsened food insecurity. This suggests that the reduction in agricultural labor opportunities, potentially due to restrictions or disruptions caused by the pandemic, has had a negative impact on the food security of these households.
Hybrid Arctic Puffin Algorithm for Solving Design Optimization Problems
Authors: Fakhouri Hussam N. , Alkhalaileh Mohannad S. , Hamad Faten , Sirhan Najem N. , Fakhouri Sandi N.
Published: December 2024

This study presents an innovative hybrid evolutionary algorithm that combines the Arctic Puffin Optimization (APO) algorithm with the JADE dynamic differential evolution framework. The APO algorithm, inspired by the foraging patterns of Arctic puffins, demonstrates certain challenges, including a tendency to converge prematurely at local minima, a slow rate of convergence, and an insufficient equilibrium between the exploration and exploitation processes. To mitigate these drawbacks, the proposed hybrid approach incorporates the dynamic features of JADE, which enhances the exploration–exploitation trade-off through adaptive parameter control and the use of an external archive. By synergizing the effective search mechanisms modeled after the foraging behavior of Arctic puffins with JADE’s advanced dynamic strategies, this integration significantly improves global search efficiency and accelerates the convergence process. The effectiveness of APO-JADE is demonstrated through benchmark tests against well-known IEEE CEC 2022 unimodal and multimodal functions, showing superior performance over 32 compared optimization algorithms. Additionally, APO-JADE is applied to complex engineering design problems, including the optimization of engineering structures and mechanisms, revealing its practical utility in navigating challenging, multi-dimensional search spaces typically encountered in real-world engineering problems. The results confirm that APO-JADE outperformed all of the compared optimizers, effectively addressing the challenges of unknown and complex search areas in engineering design optimization.
Employer Branding: How Current Employee Attitudes Attract Top Talent and New Customers
Authors: Thao Ha Thi , Kim Lisa Hyunjung , Kim Young-Ju
Published: December 2024

Employer branding research has predominantly concentrated on cultivating a favorable image for prospective job applicants, with limited exploration of its effects on current employees. This study investigates how employer branding shapes the attitudes of existing employees—specifically job satisfaction, organizational identification, and organization-related sacrifice—and examines how these attitudes influence employees’ word-of-mouth behavior toward both potential applicants and customers. Drawing on survey data from employees in Vietnam’s travel and hospitality sectors, the findings reveal that development, diversity, and reputation values significantly enhance employee attitudes, while economic value does not exert a notable influence. Additionally, job satisfaction, organizational identification, and organization-related sacrifice all positively affect word-of-mouth intentions toward potential applicants. However, organization-related sacrifice emerges as the sole factor significantly impacting word-of-mouth intentions toward customers. The study offers substantial theoretical contributions and practical implications, emphasizing the broader influence of employer branding on current employees’ advocacy behavior.
The Role of Relationship Marketing and Brand Love Among Banking Consumers in an Emerging Market Context
Authors: Panduro-Ramirez Jose Alberto , Gallegos-Reyes Miguel Angel , Villar-Guevara Miluska , García-Salirrosas Elizabeth Emperatriz , Fernández-Mallma Israel
Published: December 2024

Relationship marketing is a concept that focuses not only on increasing the volume of relationship transactions, but also on improving consumer perception. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the influence of relationship marketing dimensions on brand love. An explanatory study was conducted considering 417 participants who confirmed their affiliation with a bank. Adults aged between 18 and 52 years participated in the study. Data were collected using a self-administered relationship marketing and brand love form, obtaining an adequate measurement model (α = between 0.842 and 0.908; CR = between 0.905 and 0.942; AVE = 0.679 and 0.845; VIFs = between 1.638 and 2.802). The theoretical model was evaluated using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method. According to the results, the hypotheses were confirmed, demonstrating the positive influence of trust (β = 0.40), commitment (β = 0.08), communication (β = 0.12), and conflict management (β = 0.08) on brand love. These results demonstrated that trust, as a dimension of relationship marketing, guarantees a greater contribution to the structural model. The implementation of relationship marketing practices and strategies that emphasize trust by banks can strengthen brand love and foster developing markets in an emerging economy. Although previous studies have analyzed some factors that influence brand love, the topic has not been examined from a relationship marketing perspective, which provides valuable insights for the banking industry, stakeholders, academy, and leaders in business administration.
The Relation Between Bullying and Cyberbullying, Emotional Intelligence, and Empathy in Portuguese Adolescents
Authors: Monteiro Ana Paula , Marques Filipa , Relva Inês Carvalho , Simões Margarida , Sani Ana Isabel , Correia Elisete
Published: December 2024

Bullying and cyberbullying share in their definition the pattern of aggressive and intentional conduct, characterized by a perceived or observed imbalance and repeated over time. Empathy and emotional intelligence are fundamental individual skills that can enable adolescents to develop less aggressive and more empathetic behaviors. The aim of this study is to explore the frequency of bullying and cyberbullying (victimization and/or aggression), the association of bullying, cyberbullying, empathy, and emotional intelligence, and to explore whether sex, age, educational level, and online recreational time are related to bullying and cyberbullying behaviors. A sample of 599 adolescents, aged between 13 and 21 years old, from basic and secondary schools located in the north of Portugal, participated in the study. The instruments used in the study were the Sociodemographic Questionnaire; the Bullying and Cyberbullying Behavior Questionnaire; the Basic Empathy Scale; and the Self-Perception of Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire. The main results indicated that victims demonstrate greater empathy and emotional intelligence. The results also showed that male adolescents take on more of the role of aggressors in bullying and cyberbullying, while female adolescents take on more of the role of victims. The study underscores the importance of developing and implementing prevention and intervention programs for bullying and cyberbullying, with a focus on promoting empathy and emotional intelligence among adolescents.
A Study on the Characteristics of Nitrification and Denitrification of Three Small Watersheds During the Wet and Dry Seasons with Various Sources of Pollution: A Case Study of the Jinjing Basin
Authors: Tong Lingling , Karim Murni , Yusoff Fatimah M. , Aris Ahmad Zaharin , Abdullah Ahmad Fikri , Liu Feng , Li Dejun , Puvanasundram Puvaneswari
Published: December 2024

Nitrogen cycling in freshwater ecosystems is critical for maintaining water quality, and understanding the processes of nitrification and denitrification is essential for effective nitrogen management, particularly in areas with diverse pollution sources. This study investigated the nitrification and denitrification processes in three tributaries of the Jinjing River—Tuojia (agricultural), Jinjing (residential), and Guanjia (woodland)—during both the wet and dry seasons. The potential nitrification rates (PNRs) and potential denitrification rates (PDNRs) were measured across these sites. The highest rates were observed in Tuojia during the wet season, with the PNR reaching 39.7 μg·kg−1 h−1 and the PDNR reaching 3.25 mg·kg−1·h−1, while the rates were considerably lower in Jinjing and Guanjia. The ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) abundance was higher than the ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) abundance at all sites, with Tuojia exhibiting the highest AOA abundance (5.9 × 10⁷ copies·g−1) during the wet season. The nitrate-nitrogen (NO₃−-N) content was a key factor influencing denitrification, and the AOA abundance was significantly correlated with nitrification rates (r = 0.69; p < 0.05). These findings highlight the spatial and seasonal variability in nitrogen cycling and emphasize the importance of developing targeted nitrogen management strategies in regions with mixed land uses and pollution sources.
Soil and Leaf Nutrient Status of Selected Valencia Orange Orchards in the Gharb Plain of Morocco
Authors: Brital Rania , Ibriz Mohammed , Benmrich Ahmed Mansour , Benyahia Hamid , Aboutayeb Rachid , Abail Zhor
Published: December 2024

Monitoring the nutrient status of citrus orchards is fundamental to ensure optimum fruit yield and quality. In the present study, soil and leaf samples of 20 Valencia Late orange orchards were collected in the Gharb plain of Morocco, the second-largest citrus area in the country. The objective was to assess the status of essential macronutrients (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg) and micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn) in Valencia orange orchards and investigate the relationships between soil properties and nutrient contents in soils and leaves. Soils of the studied orchards had a medium to heavy texture, with low to moderate levels of organic matter content (6–31 g kg−1). They were also non-saline and mostly alkaline and calcareous. These soils exhibited a wide range of macro- and micronutrients. Suboptimum levels of total N, available Fe, and Cu were observed in most soils. Most of soils had also sufficient levels of available P, Mn, and Zn. All soils were sufficiently supplied with available Ca, Mg, and K. Similarly to soil analysis, leaf analysis indicated the prevalence of adequate to very high levels of P, Ca, Mn, and K. Leaf N and Fe status were below optimum levels in most orchards, which is in line with the observed low levels in soils. Nevertheless, unlike soils, leaves did not show any deficiency of Cu; instead, most orchards had adequate to excessive levels of this micronutrient. Additionally, leaf Mg and Zn status were deficient in most orchards, conversely to that of soils. This discrepancy between soil and leaf analysis was also noted in the lack of correlation we observed between soil nutrients and their respective levels in leaves. Correlation analysis revealed also an antagonistic interaction between K–Mg and Ca–Mg, which explained the widespread suboptimum levels of Mg in leaves despite its sufficient status in soils. Such antagonism was also observed between Fe–Mn. In the case of Cu, we suspect the use of Cu-containing plant protection products to contribute to the high levels in leaves despite its low levels in soils. Overall, our results showed that nutrient imbalances leading to antagonistic interaction heavily impacted nutrient status in our study area. We expect unbalanced fertilization to contribute to this issue. Therefore, fertilization practices should be managed judiciously to maintain an adequate nutrient balance in the soil and trees of citrus orchards and ensure their sustainable production.
Tillage Systems Modify the Soil Properties and Cassava Physiology During Drought
Authors: Ocaña-Reyes Jimmy A. , Paredes-Espinosa Richard , Quispe-Tomas Astrid , Díaz-Chuquizuta Henry , Ore-Aquino Zoila L. , Agurto-Piñarreta Alex I. , Monge W. Michel Paz , Lobato-Galvez Roiser H. , Reyes José G. Ruiz , Zavala-Solórzano José W. , Yupanqui Hugo Alfredo Huamani , Egoávil-Jump Giannfranco , Lao Olivares Ceila P.
Published: December 2024

Soils are highly sensitive to the type of tillage practices used, as these practices influence soil properties and affect crops, the environment, and society. However, research on cassava production under different tillage systems during drought conditions in the Peruvian Amazon has not been reported. The objective of this study was to compare soil properties, cassava physiology, and yield under conservation agriculture (CA) and traditional agriculture (TA) practices, with and without mulch, in a water-scarce environment. Soil moisture, earthworm population (Ew), stomatal conductance, leaf area index, and commercial yield under CA were 5.26% (~105.2 m3 ha−1), 83%, 1.2 times, 1.14 times, and 7.3 t ha−1, respectively, higher than under TA. Hydraulic conductivity (Ks) in TA was 2.1 times higher than that in CA. However, Ks, bulk density, and Ew over time showed a gradual recovery under CA. The mulch factor only affected Ew, which was higher without mulch than with mulch. The results indicate that CA practices were superior to TA practices, improving soil properties, cassava physiology, and yield, and, therefore, offer significant benefits in resource conservation and higher production and profitability in a drought-prone environment.
Phenological Assessment of Hops (Humulus lupulus L.) Grown in Semi-Arid and Subtropical Climates Through BBCH Scale and a Thermal-Based Growth Model
Authors: Agehara Shinsuke , Carrubba Alessandra , Sarno Mauro , Marceddu Roberto
Published: December 2024

Although usually studied as separate processes, plant growth and plant development are strictly interrelated. The BBCH scale (“Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt, and CHemical industry”) has become one of the primary classification systems for documenting the growth and developmental stages of many plant species. Specifically, the BBCH scale for hops (Humulus lupulus L.) separately describes growth and development during the vegetative stage. This study aims to develop an integrated approach to better understand the interaction between vertical growth rates and vegetative development in hops. Growth rates and development patterns of the Cascade hop cultivar were assessed in semi-arid (Sicily, Italy) and subtropical (Florida, USA) climates. The Gompertz model accurately described vertical growth, while a modified Gaussian model effectively captured hop growth rates (HGRs). A strong correlation between growth and developmental stages was identified, allowing for the inference of growth dynamics from developmental observations during the vegetative phase. Growth and developmental stages showed a 71% match across both environments, with minor phase shifts influenced by growing conditions. From an applied perspective, understanding the growth characteristics associated with developmental stages is crucial for addressing challenges posed by pests and diseases in emerging hop-growing regions. This integrated approach offers valuable insights into optimizing cultivation practices for diverse environmental conditions.
The Association of Early Postoperative Dysaesthesia with Thoracic Surgery
Authors: Alston Robin Peter , Ho Ida Pui Ka , Semple Cameron , Sooraj Nayandra
Published: December 2024

(1) Background: chronic pain following thoracic surgery is associated with dysaesthesia, which may be caused by intraoperative damage to intercostal nerves. This study’s primary aim was to compare, in the early postoperative period, the total area of dysaesthesia on the operated vs. the non-operated side of the thorax. Our secondary aims were to compare the total area of dysaesthesia between thoracotomy and video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) and to determine whether the area was associated with acute pain. (2) Methods: adult patients undergoing thoracic surgery underwent sensory examinations of the thorax using a monofilament and pin. Identified areas of hypoalgesia, hyperalgesia, allodynia and hypoaesthesia were marked on the skin, then copied onto tracing paper. Areas of dysaesthesia were estimated by weighing the cut-out, traced areas of paper and multiplying the weights by the paper’s known weight per area. Acute pain was assessed using a verbal rating score. (3) Results: the total area of dysaesthesia on the operated side [89 interquartile range (IQR) 8–167) cm2] was significantly greater than the non-operated side [0 (IQR 0–22) cm2] (p = 0.017), but not significantly different between thoracotomy [126 (IQR 16–392) cm2] and VATS [79 (IQR 4–161) cm2] (p = 1.0).The total area of dysaesthesia was not significantly correlated with acute pain severity after inspiration (r = 0.1, p = 1) or at rest (r = 0.1 p = 0.6). Conclusions: in the early postoperative period, thoracic surgery was associated with a larger total area of dysaesthesia on the operated compared to the non-operated side and the area was unrelated to acute pain, nor was it different between thoracotomy and VATS.
Radical Mastectomy Efficiently Improves Long-Term Clinical Outcomes in Dogs with Malignant Mammary Tumors
Authors: Kim Seung-Hyun , Yoo Dae Sung , Park Chul-Ho , Lee Sang-Ho , Lee Ju-Hwan , Ahn Taeho , Jung Bock-Gie , Park Jun-Gyu , Park Sang-Ik , Bae Chun-Sik
Published: December 2024

The incidence of mammary gland tumors in dogs is a significant issue, characterized by notable rates of malignancy, recurrence, and disease burden. However, the lack of comprehensive information and correlated studies has presented challenges in establishing an effective surgical treatment strategy. In this study, a cohort of 95 dogs diagnosed with mammary tumors underwent evaluation using various surgical methods, medications, ovariohysterectomy, and assessments of margin completeness to analyze clinical outcomes. Significant clinical outcomes were observed following radical mastectomy and conservative surgeries, irrespective of TNM stages and histopathological grade of malignancy. Complete excision demonstrated significantly improved survival time and disease-free interval compared to incomplete excision. It is noted that complete surgical excision provides benefits, even in cases where lymphatic invasion is present. However, further investigations are necessary to validate the clinical results and mitigate side effects from radical mastectomy. Despite postoperative complications, several studies continue to advocate for more radical mastectomies due to their favorable risk-benefit ratio. Moreover, advanced inpatient treatments can now effectively manage or mitigate many of these complications. This study emphasizes the critical role of surgical proficiency and postoperative medication in treating malignant mammary tumors in dogs, and it provides insights that may contribute to the development of more effective treatment strategies for this condition.
Additives in Supplements for Grazing Beef Cattle
Authors: Naves Karine R. S. , Moraes Kamila. A. K. , Cunha Lorrayne O. da , Petrenko Natasha B. , Ortelam Juliana C. , Sousa Jarliane N. , Covatti Caroline F. , Nunes Dener , Chaves Carla S. , Menezes Flávio L. de , Oliveira André S. de , Moraes Eduardo H. B. K.
Published: December 2024

Pasture-based beef cattle production systems aim to maximize the interaction between forage and supplements to increase activity. In addition, supplementation and the use of food additives help optimize production efficiency and improve the use of additional nutrients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the use of additives in protein–energy supplements (PESs) on the intake, digestibility, and ruminal parameters of beef cattle raised on pasture in the rearing phase. Five male cattle were allocated to a 5 × 5 Latin square design, with five experimental periods and five treatments. The animals were kept under continuous grazing in individual paddocks of marandu palisadegrass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu). The treatments consisted of a mineral mixture (MM) (0.080 kg/animal/day), PES (4.0 kg/animal/day), PES with monensin sodium (120 mg/animal/day), PES with functional oil (2500 mg/animal/day) and PES with active yeast (4000 mg/animal/day). PESs increased the total dry matter intake (DMI) (kg/day) and the DMI in terms of % body weight (%BW) and increased the intake of crude protein (CP) and the dry matter intake of digestible organic matter (DOM). The use of additives did not affect nutrient intake or digestibility. Compared with MM, the PES increased the concentrations of ruminal ammonia nitrogen and serum urea nitrogen. In addition, there was an increase in fecal nitrogen, retained nitrogen, microbial nitrogen synthesis and microbial efficiency. The use of monensin sodium, functional oil and active yeast in protein–energy supplements for beef cattle in pastures did not affect the nutritional parameters under the conditions observed in this study.
The Effect of Medium-Chain Triglycerides Oil on Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans in Planktonic and Mucosal Models
Authors: Alyami Hiba Rashid , Wu Yan , Aljughaiman Abdulwahab , Li Ting , Almulhim Abdullah , Bliss Joseph M. , Xiao Jin
Published: December 2024

Despite MCT oil’s potential antimicrobial benefits for gastrointestinal health, its effects on disrupting cariogenic pathogens on oral mucosal surfaces remain underexplored. This study evaluated the impact of MCT oil on the adhesion and invasion of Candida albicans and Streptoccocus mutans using planktonic and mucosal models. First, a planktonic model was used to assess the impact of various concentrations of MCT on the growth of S. mutans and C. albicans. Subsequently, a mucosal model was established by seeding TR-146 human buccal mucosal epithelial cells on a 3 µm porous transwell membrane, forming an epithelial barrier. MCT oil was then applied to the epithelial barriers in different durations (10, 30, and 60 min). Subsequently, C. albicans and S. mutans were introduced in the transwell and their adherence to the epithelial cells and their transmigration through the barriers was assessed using colony-forming unit counts and the barrier integrity was assessed by trans epithelial electrical resistance (TEER). Furthermore, cytotoxicity of MCT oil on mucosal cells was assessed by AlamarBlue assay. We found that higher MCT concentrations (90% and 100%) significantly inhibited C. albicans and S. mutans growth in planktonic conditions. Additionally, MCT oil reduced S. mutans adhesion to epithelial cells, highlighting its potential to interfere with bacterial attachment and colonization to oral mucosa. However, the oil had limited effects on C. albicans adhesion and transmigration. MCT demonstrated no cytotoxic effects on the viability of epithelial cells. The study findings highlight the potential benefits of MCT oil, particularly in oral bacterial inhibition, for oral health applications.
Dependence of the Preload on the Tightening Torque for Hydraulic Plugs
Authors: Hladnik Jurij , Majdič Franc , Čelik Anže , Jerman Boris
Published: December 2024

In hydraulics, threaded plugs are used to close various manufacturing holes and other fluid channels. They are preloaded to ensure sufficient sealing force. Since the range of recommended thread and underhead friction coefficients for preloaded threaded connections in the literature is very wide, they are not suitable for accurate determination of the preload–torque relationships of plug–valve connections. In the study, two non-standard plugs with metric threads were equipped with strain gauges and repeatedly tightened three times in valve housings under lubricated and unlubricated conditions. The preload and tightening torque were measured. (1) Although the plug–valve connections had a similar geometry with the same surface roughness of the contacting surfaces, the average overall friction coefficient (uniform thread and underhead friction coefficient) and torque coefficient differed between the two connections in the unlubricated and lubricated conditions by 16% and 18%, respectively. This indicates that even small geometrical differences can have a considerable influence on these coefficients. The overall friction and torque coefficients were between 8% and 17% higher in the unlubricated condition than in the lubricated condition (not statistically proven). (2) The overall friction and torque coefficients decreased with repeated tightening under lubricated conditions. This influence decreased with the number of tightening repetitions. (3) Consideration of the minimum and maximum thread and underhead friction coefficients given in VDI 2230 would lead to an error in the estimated preload of −15% to +86%. In conclusion, for accurate determination of the preload–torque relationship of the plug–valve connections, measurements considering repeated tightening are crucial. These should be performed for each type and size of plug–valve connection separately. To minimize the repeated tightening influence, it is recommended to re-tighten the connections several times before leaving production.
A Novel Calculation Method to Quantify the Torque Dependency of the Masking Threshold of Tonal Powertrain Noise in Electric Vehicles
Authors: Abbink Victor , Moll Carsten , Landes David , Altinsoy M. Ercan
Published: December 2024

Tonal powertrain noise can have a strong negative impact on passengers’ quality and comfort perception in the interior of electric vehicles. Therefore, in the vehicle development process, the assessment of the perceptibility of tonal powertrain noise is essential. As wind and tire noise can possibly mask tonal noises, engineers use modern masking models to determine the masking threshold of tonal powertrain noise from vehicle interior measurements. In the presently used method, the masking threshold is mostly generated with torque-free deceleration measurements. However, the influence of torque on masking tire noise must be considered. As this requires time-consuming and costly road measurements, an extension of the method is being developed, which will also enable the use of roller dynamometer measurements for the assessment. For the extension of the method, however, the influence of the torque must also be considered. This paper presents a novel calculation method that quantifies the influence of torque on the masking threshold and converts masking thresholds from an arbitrary torque level to another. By identifying the frequency and speed range that is mainly affected by the torque-dependent tire noise, a regression model with respect to the tractive force on the tires can be used to calculate a torque-dependent correction factor. The developed method can significantly improve the validity of masking thresholds and quantitatively, the method generalizes well across different vehicle segments. The error can be reduced to below 2 dB above 2000 rpm and to below 1 dB above 4000 rpm. By using this method, more valid target level settings for tonal powertrain noise can be derived.
Grades and Learning Styles: New Software for Analyzing Correlations in a Longitudinal Study Across Different Branches of Knowledge and Years
Authors: Molina-Cabello Miguel A. , Serrano-Angulo José , Benito-Picazo Jesús , Thurnhofer-Hemsi Karl
Published: December 2024

Knowing how students engage with their materials helps educators design methodologies to enhance the learning process. To help teachers in determining students’ average learning style profiles and analyzing potential connections between learning styles and academic performance, new freely accessible software, integrated with Moodle, has been developed in this work. A comprehensive case study involving one thousand students across various subjects and degrees from several branches of knowledge in different years has been conducted using this tool. The analysis reveals low participation in the survey, with only 6 out of 19 courses having a participation rate that surpasses 50%), where respondents generally achieved higher grades compared to non-participants (on a grade scale from 0 to 10, participants scored on average one point higher than those who did not complete the questionnaire), suggesting that they were more motivated. Higher-level courses have higher participation rates, but overall participation has declined over the years. Despite slight differences in learning styles between courses, the general pattern remains similar. The correlation between learning styles and grades, analyzed through linear regression, shows that this model performs better when both learning styles and grade marks are distributed by score rather than by level.
6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) and Methyl Jasmonate (MeJa) Affect Sex Expression, Flowering Time and Flowering Intensity in Cultivated Yam Dioscorea rotundata (Poir.)
Authors: Denadi Narcisse , Vanhove Aline , Zoundjihékpon Jeanne , Gandonou Christophe , Quinet Muriel
Published: December 2024

Cultivated yam (Dioscorea rotundata) is a staple tuber crop in West Africa which is mainly vegetatively propagated. Although the majority of yam cultivars flower, the control of their sexual reproduction remains largely unknown despite its importance for plant-breeding programs. While described as a dioecious species, yam has several monoecious (mix) cultivars that are often subject to spontaneous sex changes. This study aims to evaluate the impact of phytohormones on sex expression and flower development in cultivated yams D. rotundata. Exogenous applications of 1 mM 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 1 mM methyl jasmonate (MeJa) were performed on seedlings of female (Gnidou, Anago), male (Flou) and mix (Katala and Laboko) cultivars. The mix cultivars produced monoecious, male and female plants while the female and male cultivars had rather stable sex. Our results showed that MeJa exhibited a significant masculinising effect in mix cultivars and induced inflorescence and flower malformations in female cultivars (56% in Gnidou and 37% in Anago). Most malformations were inflorescence branching and sterile flowers (non-differentiated ovary) with extra cycles of sepals. Moreover, MeJa reduced flowering time in the cultivars of all sexes and increased the number of inflorescences per plant as well as the number of flowers per plant. Our results showed that BAP reduced the flowering time, synchronized flowering in female plants and increased the number of inflorescences per plant in monoecious plants. However, our results did not allow for strong conclusions regarding the effect of BAP on sex expression due to the high proportion of female flowering in both the control and BAP-sprayed plants. Nevertheless, we did not observe any masculinising effect for BAP. Further research that would highlight hormone and homeotic gene interactions in flowering could be of key interest in understanding the hormonal control of sex in cultivated yams D. rotundata.
Celecoxib Combined with Tocilizumab Has Anti-Inflammatory Effects and Promotes the Recovery of Damaged Cartilage via the Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway In Vitro
Authors: Shimasaki Miyako , Ueda Shusuke , Sakurai Masaru , Kawahara Norio , Ueda Yoshimichi , Ichiseki Toru
Published: December 2024

Inflammation and oxidative stress are crucial for osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis. Despite the potential of pharmacological pretreatment of chondrocytes in preventing OA, its efficacy in preventing the progression of cartilage damage and promoting its recovery has not been examined. In this study, an H2O2-induced human OA-like chondrocyte cell model was created using H1467 primary human chondrocytes to evaluate the efficacy of interleukin (IL)-6 and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitors (tocilizumab and celecoxib, respectively) in the prevention and treatment of cartilage damage. H2O2 significantly elevated the IL-6, COX-2, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-13 levels. Although monotherapy decreased the levels, nuclear shrinkage and altered cell morphology, similar to those in the H2O2 group, were observed. The expression of these factors was significantly lower in the combination therapy group, and the cell morphology was maintained. Moreover, the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway was activated, and levels of the antioxidant protein heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were increased, especially in the combination group, indicating an anti-inflammatory effect. The treatment groups, particularly the combination group, demonstrated increased cell viability. Overall, the drug combination exhibited superior efficacy in preventing the progression of cartilage damage and promoted its recovery compared with the monotherapy. Given that the drugs herein are already in clinical use, they are suitable candidates for OA treatment.
High Glucose Sensitizes Male and Female Rat Cardiomyocytes to Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling
Authors: Gu Ruonan , Wang Jerry , Morin Julianne , Lu Aizhu , Liang Wenbin
Published: December 2024

Wnt/β-catenin signaling has been shown to regulate gene expressions in cardiomyocytes. However, it is not known if this effect is dependent on the sex of cells or the glucose level in the culture medium. In the present study, ventricular myocytes were prepared from male and female neonatal rats and maintained in either a glucose-rich (25 mM) medium or a low-glucose (3 mM), lipid-rich medium. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to measure changes in target genes (Axin2, Scn5a, and Tbx3) after treatment with 1, 3, or 10 µM of CHIR-99021, an activator of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. CHIR induced similar changes in Axin2, Tbx3, and Scn5a transcripts in male and female NRVMs in both media, suggesting the absence of sex difference. However, cells in a high-glucose medium showed greater increases in Axin2 and Tbx3 transcripts than cells in a low-glucose medium. In addition, a low concentration of CHIR (1 µM) reduced the Scn5a transcript in cells in a high-glucose medium but not in a low-glucose medium, suggesting an increased sensitivity to Wnt signaling by high glucose. A non-linear relationship was identified between Axin2 transcript upregulation and Scn5a transcript downregulation in CIHR-treated NRVMs. These data suggest that high glucose sensitizes both male and female cardiomyocytes to Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
Resolution of Disputes in Infrastructure Projects: A Norwegian Perspective
Authors: Sabri Omar K. , Torp Olav , Bruland Amund
Published: December 2024

The resolution of disputes is one of the most critical aspects of construction projects as it directly impacts the success of construction projects. The standard methods in which conflicts are usually resolved in the construction industry in Norway include negotiation, mediation, and litigation. Standard methods used at the international level include negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. This research work tried to establish the effectiveness of different dispute resolution mechanisms in Norway by conducting interviews with professionals dealing with construction disputes. Our study has found that PRIME is the most preferred approach in the Norwegian construction industry because it mainly focuses on negotiations and mediation, while lawsuits are the least preferred. It is in light of the excellent dispute resolution methods that the study should be tailor-made for the specific dispute and include all parties. Such findings would be significant as they would help in coming up with more appropriate dispute resolution mechanisms and, therefore, benefit the construction professionals and policymakers and furnish valuable insight into the field.
Study on Structural Fire Protection and Fire Resistance of Glued Laminated Timber Columns
Authors: Korolchenko Dmitrii A. , Portnov Fedor A.
Published: December 2024

Glued wood is one of the most commonly used materials made of wood. Glued wood has many advantages related to its strength characteristics and operation. Nevertheless, due to the use of an adhesive base, it becomes necessary to carefully approach the issue of the fire resistance of building structures made of glued wood. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of structural fire protection on the fire resistance of glued laminated timber columns; the task of developing methods for experimental and analytical assessments of the fire resistance of glued laminated timber columns, with the possibility of assessing the temperature of the wood under a layer of fire protection, was set, and an analysis of the effectiveness of these methods for assessing the fire resistance of such structures was conducted. The experimental assessment of fire resistance was based on the combined effects of fire and force on structures. The analytical assessment of the fire resistance was carried out using two methods, each of which estimated the time of the beginning of the ignition of the wood, as well as its combustion before the limit state of the structure was reached, but did not ascertain the acting force. As a result of evaluating the effect of structural fire protection on the fire resistance of glued wood columns, data on the heating of wood under a layer of fire protection were obtained, and the relationship between the deformation of the sample and the heating of the layers of fire protection was revealed, consisting of an increase in the ignition time of the wood with an increase in the thickness of the fire protection.
Sustainable Seismic Energy Assessment of Italian Residential Heritage in Reinforced Concrete with Masonry Infills: An HBIM Evaluation Tool
Authors: Bonaguidi Lisa , Sebastiani Claudio , Santini Silvia
Published: December 2024

Design is a multidisciplinary subject; it cannot and should not admit one-way visions, and today, more than ever, there is a need for collaboration among all the specialized technicians to immediately consider all the issues, in particular the combination of energy efficiency and seismic protection. This article aims to demonstrate how the HBIM workflow can be applied to data collection, mapping, modeling, and analyses, providing a methodology that can be valid and efficient for different public administrations, aimed at creating an open database (Open HBIM) accessible at any time to constantly monitor and update the data and interventions on existing buildings. The results will be “integrated” with models, which can provide data for specific evaluations. As an application of the HBIM methodology, the structural and energy infill performance of Italian buildings were investigated, with reference to four types of infill in reinforced concrete frames placed in four different Italian cities.
Anionic Rhodium Complexes as Very Active Catalysts for Hydro-Silylation Reactions
Authors: Jankowska-Wajda Magdalena , Kownacki Ireneusz , Kubicki Maciej , Dąbek Izabela , Rubiś Błażej , Maciejewski Hieronim
Published: December 2024

Four anionic rhodium complexes were synthesized using RhCl3 as a precursor. All derivatives were isolated and characterized spectroscopically (NMR, ESI-MS). For one of them, [BMPip][RhCl4], the crystallographic structure was determined. Additionally, their melting points and thermal stabilities were established. The obtained derivatives were used as catalysts for the hydrosilylation of two olefins with various properties. All tested catalysts were insoluble in the reaction medium, which permitted their easy isolation and repeated use in subsequent catalytic cycles. The most effective catalyst did not lose its activity, even after fifty cycles of hydrosilylation of octene using heptamethyltrisiloxane (HMTS).
Cyclopentadienyl Amidinate Ligand Directing Effects in the Enantioselective Living Coordinative Chain Transfer Polymerization of 1,5-Hexadiene
Authors: Burrows Cole M. , Zavalij Peter Y. , Sita Lawrence R.
Published: December 2024

The new chiral and configurationally stable cyclopentadienyl amidinate (CPAM) hafnium complexes, (RC, RHf)-2 and (SC, SHf)-3, have been obtained in enantio- and diastereomerically pure form. Upon activation with the borate co-initiator, [PhNHMe2][B(C6F5)4] (B1), 2 and 3 can serve as pre-initiators for the enantioselective living coordinative polymerization (LCP) and living coordinative chain transfer polymerization (LCCTP) of 1,5-hexadiene to provide optically active poly (methylene-1,3-cyclopentane) (PMCP) and end-group-functionalized PMCP (x-PMCP) in scalable quantities, respectively. 13C NMR stereochemical microstructural analyses reveal the role of ligand directing effects for the two-step propagation mechanism of 1,2-migratory insertion/ring-closing cyclization and structure/property relationships for these new PMCP and x-PMCP materials.