bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of commercial whitening toothpaste containing hydrogen peroxide and citric acid on dentin abrasion and erosion
Authors: Kim Jae-Heon , Kim Soyeon , Park Young-Seok
Published: April 2023

Background:Hydrogen peroxide (HP) and citric acid (CA), key contributors to toothpaste acidity, can lead to dental loss. This study is to compare the amount and pattern of abrasion or loss of dentin based on pH, buffering, and concentration of HP and CA in various commercial and experimental toothpastes after toothbrushing or immersion.Methods:Bovine dentin specimens were randomly assigned to nine solutions. The prepared solutions included two commercial toothpastes (whitening toothpaste [WT] with HP and CA; conventional toothpaste [CT] without HP and CA), reference slurry (RS), two CA solutions (0.1 M, CAS1; 0.00005 M, CAS2), basic solution (0.2 M sodium phosphate dibasic [SPDS]), CA phosphate buffer solution (0.1 M SPDS and 0.05 M CA [CAPB]), HP solution (1.33 M; HPS), and distilled water (DW). After 10,000 brushings and immersion for 1 h, the amount of dentin loss and surface pattern were measured and observed using noncontact profilometry. Data were analyzed using an analysis of variance and the Tukey test as a post hoc analysis (p<0.05).Results:WT with pH 5.0 had lower dentin abrasion than CT and RS after brushing but had higher dentin loss than both after immersion. While WT, CAS1, and CAPB surfaces exhibited comparable U-shaped patterns after brushing or immersion, a wedge shape was observed on CT and RS surfaces after brushing, with their surface patterns remaining intact after immersion. In addition, dentin abrasion, loss, and surface patterns of CAS2 and HPS, which had a pH of 5.0 like WT, did not significantly differ from those of DW after brushing and immersion.Conclusions:After brushing or immersion, the CA concentration may affect the erosive pattern on the dentin surface more than the HP concentration included in WT. The amount of abrasion or loss of dentin after brushing or soaking can vary based on the composition, concentration, and buffer in the solution, even if the pH levels are similar. With or without pH buffering, prolonged use of WT containing HP and high CA concentrations may cause further dentin damage beyond simple brushing.
Biochar Induced Chilies Cultivar Specific Defense Response Characterization Against Ralstonia solanaceraum
Authors: Abbas Muhammad Taqqi , Anjum Tehmina , Anwar Waheed , Khurshid Muhammad , Akhter Adnan
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims Biochar are considered to have the potential for managing plant diseases by activating plant defense pathways along with their role in influencing the soil-plant-microbe interactions outcome. Therefore, in this study we assessed the soil biochar amendments against bacterial wilt of chilies (Ralstonia solanacearum). Chilies cultivar specific response towards biochar was characterized with reference to physiological and biochemical alterations of the plants.Methods In this study we used the biochar prepared from leaf waste (LWB) of Syzygium cumini. The biochar was applied as a soil amendment at varied concentrations (3 and 6%, each) along with compost (20%) and the plants either inoculated with Ralstonia solanacearum or remained un-inoculated.Results All chilli (Capsicum annumm L.) cultivars [(V1 (F1 Zenia), V2 (Desi Chilli) and V3 (F1 green queen)] showed a positive influence of biochar amendment on plant growth even under bacterial induced wilt stress. Although, the reduction in percentage disease index (PDI) and disease incidence (DI) was significant for all cultivars in biochar amended treatments but resistance plant response against wilt was only recorded in cultivar V3 with 6% biochar. The chilies response to biochar was not only dependent upon the concentration of biochar applied but also on the biochemical alterations of the cultivars used.Conclusion Different chilli cultivars have shown varied levels of defense response activation in response to soil biochar amendment. These findings will certainly add to our existing understanding of biochar induced plant resistance activation as well as cultivar specific chilies defense response against R. solanacearum.
Existential gratitude and existential values predict Sense of Coherence; promoting health from an existential foundation.
Authors: Bernabe-Valero Gloria , Martínez-Cortés José Vicente , Moret-Tatay Carmen , Pelacho-Ríos Lucía
Published: April 2023

Background The health promotion strategies are directing their field of action to more profound actions involving personal change. A extensively researched and promising construct is known as Sense of coherence (SOC) which represents the orientation to salutogenic life. Investigations that provide empirical evidence are required to understand the fundamental predictors of salutogenic development. Until now, little attention has been paid in the scientific literature to the role of existential attitudes in the prediction of salutogenic variables. This paper relates the values included in Schwartz's model with gratitude viewed in terms of an existential attitude in this way filling a gap found in the previous literature.Method Correlational analyses between existential gratitude, gratitude as an affective disposition, values and SOC were conducted among 229 participants. In a Path Analysis, the values of Benevolence and Tradition and existential gratitude were chosen as predictors of SOC.Results Existential gratitude obtained significant correlations with all values and its scores were higher than the correlations between dispositional gratitude and values. The results of the Path analysis show good fit indices, indicating that SOC can be predicted by existential gratitude as well as by the values of benevolence and tradition.Conclusions The results are discussed in the light of the possibilities that this study opens up in the field of salutogenesis, based on the approach of the second wave positive psychology (PP2.0) which emphasizes the positive psychology of suffering since it takes into consideration the importance of conceptualizing Gratitude as an Existential attitude.
In vivo toxicity evaluation of a polyoxotungstate nanocluster as a promising contrast agent for computed tomography
Authors: Stojanović Marko , Lalatović Jovana , Milosavljević Aleksandra , Savić Nada , Simms Charlotte , Radosavljević Branimir , Ćetković Mila , Kravić-Stevović Tamara , Mrda Davor , Čolović Mirjana B. , Parac-Vogt Tatjana N. , Krstić Danijela
Published: April 2023

In this study, we demonstrate for the first time, that a discrete metal-oxo cluster α-/β-K6P2W18O62 (WD-POM) exhibits superior performance as a computed tomography (CT) contrast agent, in comparison to the standard contrast agent iohexol. A toxicity evaluation of WD-POM was performed according to standard toxicological protocols using Wistar albino rats. The maximum tolerable dose (MTD) of 2000 mg/kg was initially determined after oral WD-POM application. The acute intravenous toxicity of single WD-POM doses (1/3, 1/5, and 1/10 MTD), which are at least fifty times higher than the typically used dose (0.015 mmol W kg− 1) of tungsten-based contrast agents, was evaluated for 14 days. The results of arterial blood gas analysis, CO-oximetry status, electrolyte and lactate levels for 1/10 MTD group (80% survival rate) indicated the mixed respiratory and metabolic acidosis. The highest deposition of WD-POM (0.6 ppm tungsten) was found in the kidney, followed by liver (0.15 ppm tungsten), for which the histological analysis revealed morphological irregularities, although the renal function parameters (creatinine and BUN levels) were within the physiological range. This study is the first and important step in evaluating side effects of polyoxometalate nanoclusters, which in recent years have shown a large potential as therapeutics and contrast agents.
The Role of TLR2 in Exercise-Induced Immunomodulation in normal weight individuals
Authors: Bahman Fatemah , AlSaeed Halemah , Albeloushi Shaima , Al-Mulla Fahd , Ahmad Rasheed , Alrashed Fatema
Published: April 2023

BackgroundToll-like receptors (TLRs) have been targeted for therapeutic drug development for several disorders, including cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes mellitus. Daily levels physical activity (PA) has been purported to influence the systemic circulation of cytokines, affecting the overall activation of TLRs and influencing the inflammatory milieu.MethodsObjective and self-reported daily PA was tracked in 69 normal-weight adults. Freedson's cut-offs categorized daily PA intensity into the 25th lowest, medium, and top percentiles. Monocytic TLR2 expression was quantified by flow cytometry in fresh whole blood. Cross-sectional associations between flow cytometry measured TLR2+subsets and clinical biomarkers were evaluated.ResultsPA increased circulation of TLR2+monocytes. TLR2 expression was adversely corelated with reduced diastolic blood pressure (DBP), triglyceride (TG), and matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9) levels. However, regression analysis indicated that only TG levels were independently linked with TLR2+subsets in circulation in active participants.ConclusionsHigher daily PA levels improve cardiovascular health by upregulating monocytic TLR2+subsets in circulation, indicating that TLR2 may modulate inflammatory cytokines under physically active lifestyles.
Investigation of Self-Compacting Concrete Behaviour Under Axial Load by Acoustic Emission Method
Authors: RESULOĞULLARI Emriye ÇINAR , DÜNDAR Behçet
Published: April 2023

The Acoustic Emission (AE) method is a non-destructive test method used when monitoring the damage propagation by detecting high-frequency elastic waves produced by the refraction process. Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) is a special type of concrete that does not require vibration, has excellent fluidity, and is resistant to segregation. In this study, it is aimed to investigate the functioning of the AE technique, which is frequently used in normal concrete, in the behaviour of SCC. For this purpose, simultaneous monitoring of SCCs under uniaxial compressive load was carried out with the AE method. CEM I 42.5 R cement was used as a binder in the production of concrete, and Fly Ash (FA) and Marble Powder (MP) were used as mineral additives. In SCC mixture, stone dust was used as filler material and chemical additive Sika brand 4567 Hi-Tech was used as plasticizer. Cement dosage is 400 kg, water/powder ratio is 0.36, chemical additive ratio is 1.85%, and stone dust amount is 125 kg. The mineral additives which were used included in the mixture replaced with cement by 20%. In addition to the compressive strength of SCCs, crack analysis, AE amplitude, AE Energy, Ringing Counts and Cumulative Count results were examined as a result of AE measurements. With the AE parameters obtained as a result of the simultaneous measurement, the behaviour of SCCs under uniaxial load was successfully monitored.
Is pseudohalide CN - a real halide? An easy identification method
Authors: Qin Zhengbo
Published: April 2023

Recently, in the light of a great concentration devoted on pseudohalide CN− and cyano radical CN physico-chemical property studies and superhalide behavior exploration in CN− ligated metal compounds, the electronic structure nature of pseudohalide CN− has been directly demonstrated via photoelectron velocity map imaging (PE-VMI) technique as compared to that of Cl−. For the halide Cl−, photoelectrons were observed at 266 nm (4.66 eV) to peak being perpendicular to the laser polarization due to electron emission from the typically parent p orbital. For the analogous pseudohalide CN−, photoelectrons present peak along the laser polarization entirely at 266 nm. Although both of them were often regarded with the same high electron affinity and extremely strong chemical bonding capability to stabilize complexes, the photoelectron angular distributions (PADs) are quietly different, which indicates their different HOMO nature. Thus, using advanced PE-VMI technique, we demonstrate that PADs can provide detailed information about the electronic structure to distinguish electronic structures of pseudohalides and halides.
PerPsych: An iPadOS-based Open-source Neuropsychological Software for Time Perception Assessment
Authors: Gorji Arman , Jouzdani Ali Fathi
Published: April 2023

Background : We use neuropsychological tests to determine and monitor the impact of mental illness and brain disease on cognitive function. Assessment of time perception is a common component of neuropsychological tests. A majority of time perception studies use computer displays, although using smartphone or tablet software might offer advantages in some cases.
Result : In this study, we developed an open-source, iPadOS-based neuropsychological tool for testing time perception that makes use of the most recent hardware and software developments. We designed this software natively for iPadOS, using the low-level Metal interface to access the graphics processing unit for high-timing performance. PerPsych makes it quicker and simpler for researchers to conduct studies on time perception in individuals with cognitive impairment.
Conclusion : PerPsych is an iPadOS-based open-source neuropsychological software for time perception assessment. The information gathered using this software can be utilized in papers that attempt to monitor and diagnose neurological and psychiatric diseases.
Development of Youth Tennis Players: A Study Based on the Ranking History of Top ATP/WTA Players Worldwide, and a Comparison with Elite Chinese Players
Authors: chen hui , li caifeng , meng xianlu , chmura pawel , wei xiaobin
Published: April 2023

Background The top 100 ATP/WTA ranking points are a crucial indicator of entry into the high-level world of tennis players, and the number of players from a nation in this ranking reflects the overall level of their tennis. This study aims to examine the historical career ranking changes of Elite players and provide valuable insights for aspiring young players looking to achieve success in the sport.Methods In this study, data on the rankings of 202 players were analyzed. Spearman and Pearson correlations were employed to investigate the association between ranking and time-use patterns. Additionally, the variance test was utilized to compare disparities in time characteristics of the rankings, with a statistical significance level of p < 0.05.Results The study found that the majority of top tennis players are from Europe and America. There was a significant correlation between the time of entering the professional tournament ranking system and the ranking, top 100 time, top 100 age, and age of starting training. Top 50 ATP players started training, achieved their ranking, reached the top 100, and reached their top 100 age earlier than the players ranked 51–100.There was a significant difference between the age of starting training and the time to top 10 among the ATP and WTA players.Chinese female players showed no significant differences compared to their global Top 10 counterparts in terms of time-to-success characteristics, although they did take longer to move up from the 600 − 400 ranking range.Conclusions The study findings indicate that elite tennis players who achieve success typically start playing and competing in the sport at a young age, with professional competition often commencing around 18 years of age. Notably, these players frequently attain high rankings before reaching the age of 20. Furthermore, top 10 ATP male players tend to start training at an earlier age and require a shorter time to achieve a top 10 ranking compared with WTA female players. It is recommended that practitioners working with tennis players should strive to gain a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to player success and develop more effective training programs to help players realize their full potential.
Postoperative course and indications for liver transplantation in biliary atresia: 20 years of experience in our hospital
Authors: Sumida Wataru , Shirota Chiyoe , Tainaka Takahisa , Makita Satoshi , Takimoto Aitaro , Takada Shunya , Nakagawa Yoichi , Maeda Takuya , Goda Yosuke , Yaohui Guo , Jiahui Liu , Hinoki Akinari , Uchida Hiroo , Amano Hizuru
Published: April 2023

Undergoing a Kasai portoenterostomy (KP) to enable the clearing of jaundice (COJ) is the only way for patients with biliary atresia (BA) to achieve native liver survival (NLS). However, COJ does not always guarantee NLS. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical course and indications for liver transplantation (LT) of BA cases in our hospital. We reviewed the clinical course of patients who underwent KP for BA at our hospital from January 2003 to June 2022 and who were followed up until December 2022. In all, we reviewed 129 cases of which 32 failed to achieve COJ, and 31 underwent LT. COJ was achieved in 97 cases. The median time to the first KP was 58 days, which was significantly earlier than the median time of 69 days of the cases who failed COJ. Of the 97 cases who achieved COJ, 25 required LT. The indications for LT included recurrent jaundice (9 cases), cholangitis (8 cases), gastrointestinal bleeding (4 cases), hepatopulmonary syndrome (3 cases), and the other (1 case). Of all cases reviewed, 55% of cases were able to live with their native liver, and 26% of cases who achieved COJ required LT.
Proposing New Potential Candidates to Inhibit EGFR via Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Torabi Mohammadreza , Yasami-Khiabani Setayesh , Sardari Soroush , Golkar Majid , Pérez-Sánchez Horacio , Ghasemi Fahimeh
Published: April 2023

One of the main issues in solid tumours is progressive mutation in epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) gene, which activates signalling pathways that create new blood vessels. In this study, it was attempted to find new a therapeutic candidate to inhibit EGFR. One of the cost-effective alternative methods to find new inhibitors has been the repositioning approach of existing drugs. The critical point of computational drug repositioning method is saving time and cost to remove the pre-clinical step and accelerate the drug discovery process. Hence, an ensemble computational-experimental approach, consisting of three different steps, a machine learning model, simulation of drug-target interaction and experimental characterization, was developed. The machine learning type used here was different tree classification method, which is one of the best randomize machine learning model to identify potential inhibitors from weak inhibitors. The machine learning step aimed to discover the approved drugs with the highest possible success rate in the experimental step. Finally, out of the nine chosen drugs, seven compounds had been confirmed to inhibit EGFR in the published articles since 2019. Hence, two identified compounds, in addition to gefitinib, as a positive control, and one neutral, were considered via molecular docking study. Finally, eight proposed drugs, including gefitinib, were investigated using MTT assay and In-Cell ELISA to characterise the drugs effect on A431 cell growth and EGFR-signaling. From our experiments, we could conclude that salicylic acid and piperazine could play an EGFR-inhibitor role like gefitinib.
Incidence of pathological manifestations in historic buildings: The case of the former electoral justice building, in Teixeira, Paraíba
Authors: SOUZA J. P. M. , VIEIRA V. da S. , FERREIRA L. D. F. , DAVI⁴ R. M. G. , MEDEIROS⁵ L. E. L. , LEITE⁶ M. C. A.
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a case study on the electoral justice building of Teixeira-PB, located in the interior of the Hinterland of Paraíba and in the immediate geographical region of Patos - PB, specifically in the municipality Teixeira. This is an exploratory and explanatory research, with a quali-quantitative approach. The methodology of the project included a bibliographic study, for possible analyses between studies already done on facades of historical buildings and the object of study of this research: the old Electoral Justice building in Teixeira - PB. Through the analysis of photographic records, damage identification forms (FID) and a damage map that contemplates all the facades of the building were prepared. Finally, the GUT methodology was applied to categorize the most aggravating pathological manifestations of the building, aiming to contribute to the understanding of the building's situation. In view of the analysis, it was noticed the high rate of anthropic mechanisms, i.e., the damage found could be solved or prevented, by performing preventive or corrective maintenance, planned and executed by a technical staff specialized in restoration of historic buildings. Therefore, this research starts from the necessity and importance of the conservation of the historical goods of an urban reality as a way to preserve and value the memory of the people and proposes to investigate and to document the result of the interventions carried out in the building, its constructive system, the damages found in the facades and the situation in relation to the degradation of the building.
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha mediates the association between telomere length and kidney dysfunction in patients with hypertension
Authors: Qi Mengya , Yu Jie , Ping Fan , Xu Lingling , Li Wei , Zhang Huabing , Li Yuxiu
Published: April 2023

Aim/hypothesis: The relationship between peripheral blood leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and kidney dysfunction, especially in people with hypertension, remains unclear. No clinical study has explored the role of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in the relationship between LTL and kidney dysfunction. Therefore, we examined the relationship between baseline LTL and albuminuria progression and/or rapid renal function decline in Chinese patients with or without hypertension, and investigated whether oxidative stress and inflammation play a mediating role in this relationship.
Methods: We conducted a prospective study including 262 patients in a 7-year follow-up period from 2014 to 2021. Data on LTL, inflammation, oxidative markers, renal function, and urine protein levels were assessed. Kidney dysfunction was defined as either albuminuria progression, rapid decline in renal function, or the composite endpoint (albuminuria progression and rapid decline in renal function). Logistic regression and simple mediation models were used for the analysis.
Results: In this cohort (mean age, 53.18±11.32 years; follow-up period, 5.97±1.16 years), 43, 22, and 59 patients developed albuminuria progression, rapid renal decline, and the composite endpoint of kidney dysfunction, respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that each standard deviation decrease in the lower quartile (Q) of baseline LTL was correlated with an increased risk of albuminuria progression (odds ratio [OR]=1.493 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.985, 2.263], P=0.059; OR=3.307 [95% CI 1.033, 10.586], P=0.044; Q2 vs. Q4); rapid renal function decline (OR=2.402 [95% CI 1.361, 4.239], P=0.002; OR=13.457 [95% CI 1.610, 112.472], P=0.016; Q1 vs. Q4); and the composite endpoint of kidney dysfunction (OR=1.797 [95% CI 1.244, 2.594], P=0.002; OR=4.062 [95% CI 1.426, 11.568], P=0.009; Q1 vs. Q4). Subgroup analyses showed that LTL was inversely associated with albuminuria progression and the composite endpoint of kidney dysfunction in patients with hypertension (OR=5.671 [95% CI 1.203, 26.726], P=0.028; OR=4.223 [95% CI 1.297, 13.753], P=0.017), but not in those without hypertension. The mediating analysis showed that tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α partly mediated the relationship between LTL and rapid decline in renal function (direct effect: β= –0.6791 [–1.2145, –0.1438]; indirect effect: β= –0.2919 [–0.5190, –0.1177]).
Conclusion: Baseline LTL could independently predict kidney dysfunction at follow-up, especially in participants with hypertension. TNF-α partially mediated the negative association between LTL and kidney dysfunction.
A comparative study on the short-term clinical outcomes of Da Vinci SP versus Da Vinci Xi for rectal cancer surgery
Authors: Alshalawi Wed Alshalawi , Lee Chul Seung , Kim Byung Chul , Han Seung Rim , Kim In Kyeong , Bae Jung Hoon , Lee In Kyu , Lee Do sang , Lee Yoon Suk
Published: April 2023

Purpose The Da Vinci SP robot system was recently introduced, but its safety and feasibility for rectal cancer compared to the currently used Da Vinci Xi robot system have not been reported. This study aimed to report the safety and feasibility of the Da Vinci SP robot system for rectal cancer by comparing the short-term outcomes of the Da Vinci Xi robot system.Methods This was a single-center, retrospective study. Data from rectal cancer patients who underwent abdominal total mesorectal excision (TME) using the robotic Xi and SP systems from October 2015 to October 2022 were analyzed. After propensity score matching, the short-term clinical perioperative outcomes were compared between the Da Vinci SP and Xi robotic system groups.Results A total of 56 patients who underwent robotic TME were analyzed after propensity score matching (SP, n = 28, vs. Xi, n = 28). Intersphincteric resection was more common in the SP group (7 cases (25%) vs. 0 case (0%), p = 0.001). The operation time was significantly shorter in SP (184 vs. 227.5 minutes, p < 0.0001), but the docking time was similar between the two groups. The postoperative complications were similar between the two groups (five cases in the SP group (17.9%) vs. four cases in Xi (14.3%), p = 0.68). There were no differences in the postoperative pain score and length of hospital stay.Conclusion The SP robotic system for abdominal TME has acceptable short-term outcomes compared with the Xi robotic system and is safe and technically feasible.
Augmented Differential Privacy Framework for Data Analytics
Authors: Desik Anantha , Naman Sumiran
Published: April 2023

Differential privacy has emerged as a popular privacy framework for providing privacy preserving noisy query answers based on statistical properties of databases. It guarantees that the distribution of noisy query answers changes very little with the addition or deletion of any tuple. Differential enjoys popular reputation that providing privacy without building any assumptions about the data and protecting against attackers who know all but one record. Differential privacy is a relatively new field of research. Most users have a limited experience in managing differential privacy parameters and achieving a suitable level of privacy without affecting the quality of the analysis. A vast majority of users is still learning how to effectively apply differential privacy in practice.
In this paper, we discussed: on the proposed augmented framework which enables the differential privacy data of any given query, the various differential privacy techniques, metrics for the privacy & utility tradeoff of the data and efficacy of the framework. Discussed state of the art of different differential privacy techniques defined in the framework Laplace, Laplace bounded, Randomized response and Exponential for different data types. The augmented framework consists of three parts one on privacy parameter inputs to control interactively and iteratively on the querying the data , the various differential privacy techniques, the metrics to measure privacy and utility threshold which allows the data analyst to evaluate the accuracy of the privacy safe data for selecting the privacy guaranteed data within the given privacy budget. The framework takes any dataset as input and, generates another dataset which is structurally and statistically very similar original dataset. The newly generated dataset has much stronger privacy guarantee on the selected sensitive and non-sensitive datatypes. We have also demonstrated analytical models developed using the privacy safe data from the framework as substitute to the models developed on the original datasets. We have demonstrated the framework and analytical model with sample data sets to present the similarity of original and differential privacy safe datasets.
The Role of Learners’ Motivation in English Language Learning at the Tertiary Level in Libya
Authors: Brima Masoud , ABDELATY SULIMAN
Published: April 2023

This research paper investigates the role of learners' motivation in English language learning at the tertiary level in Libya. The study aims to explore factors affecting students' motivation to learn English, examine the relationship between motivation and academic performance, and provide recommendations for enhancing learners' motivation in Libyan tertiary institutions.
Study of the Accelerated Electrochemical Corrosion by Immersion (AECI Test) on Saline and Grey Water Action on Carbon Steel Bars Used in Concrete Works
Authors: Mendonça Evandro Eduardo Barbosa , Soares João Victor Rodrigues , Silva Ariane Carvalho da , de Aguiar Natanna Azevedo , Sousa Joel Pedrosa , Farias Luísa Gardênia Alves Tomé , Leitinho Janaína Lopes
Published: April 2023

The phenomenon of corrosion, a recurrent and costly deterioration mechanism, is present in metals since the beginning of ore extraction for its production. The corrosive process can be caused by humidity and direct contact with water. Grey water, reuse water, contains salts that may influence metal corrosion. The study of the corrosion by the accelerated test by accelerated electrochemical corrosion test in steel bars was carried out by immersion in saline water and grey water. The bars were emerged for a time of 8 hours on with a voltage of 15 Volts. The study of the evolution and the effects of the corrosion, on the bar, were followed by calculating the corrosion rate and by optical microscopy. The results show that grey water, with a low organic content, is a less aggressive electrolyte than saline water, indicating the possibility, safely, of using concrete structures to contain this residual water, on possible mechanisms to control the corrosive process.
Experimental Study of The Structural Behavior of Non-Prismatic Reinforced Concrete Frame Using Different Types of Concrete Under Static and Repeated Load
Authors: Al-Saffar Dhurgham H , Dawood Mustafa B , Habeeb Ghalib M
Published: April 2023

This paper experimentally investigates the behavior of a non-prismatic concrete frame using different types of concrete under static and repeated loads. The parametric study includes changing the type of concrete (conventional concrete, steel fiber reactive powder concrete (SF-RPC), and glass fiber reactive powder concrete (GF-RPC)), and loading type (static and repeated). The results were presented and discussed the effect of SF-RPC and GF-RPC on frame behavior, and compared with the conventional concrete frame through the first crack load, ultimate load and failure mode, load-deflection curve, and the frame deflected shape. There were evidences of improvement in the frame properties, where a change in the failure mode, an increase in the ultimate load, as well as an increase in the stiffness of the frame in all the types of loading. The ultimate static load increased by 45.9% and 40.5% for SF-RPC and GF-RPC frames, respectively. Using RPC improves fatigue resistance, as the ultimate load decreases by only 2% under the influence of repeated load. In comparison, the conventional concrete frame decreases by 27%. The use of RPC in the specimens improves the shear strength and stiffness of the frame. The RPC is environmentally friendly through the use of recycled materials in mixtures (silica fume, steel fiber, and glass fiber), and also the structural sections are small thus the gases emitted (CO2) are few. As well as eliminating the need to consume new materials and impede construction for the public, because of the extension of the structural life.
Using smart applications in delivering government services in the UAE: Factors of adoption and satisfaction
Authors: Radwan Ahmed Farouk , Snoussi Thouraya , Mousa Sheren
Published: April 2023

This study addresses the public adoption and satisfaction factors of government e-services in the United Arab Emirates. A special emphasis is placed on the quality of digital platforms, mainly smart applications. This quantitative research is based on three distinct models: Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), E-Service Quality Model, and Web Trust Model (WTM). A survey questions was designed and distributed to a sample of 300 Emiratis using government E-services. The findings revealed that participants greatly appreciate and trust the electronic services provided via smart applications; they particularly appreciate the ease of use and the quality of the information posted. Respondents highlighted some of the factors that motivated their use, such as information disclosure strategy, and interactivity.
Osteoporosis is involved in the development of osteoarthritis through the metabolic genes UXS1 and GAMT
Authors: Chen Zhen , Lei Xinhuan , Fan Yongyong , Song Xiaoting , Wang Wei , Guo Di , Li Zhiyan , Ying Liwei , Xu Wei , Yuan Chiting , Guo Yuhua , Hong Dun , Zhang Liwei
Published: April 2023

Osteoporosis is characterized by abnormally active bone resorption and imbalance bone metabolism, resulting in altered bone microarchitecture, enhanced bone fragility, and increased fracture risk. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that often coexists with osteoporosis, severely affects the life quality of the elderly and may even increase their mortality risk. Patients with osteoarthritis exhibit localized bone growth and sclerosis in the affected joints but also osteoporotic-like changes such as reduced bone mass in non-weight-bearing areas. Microfractures and collapses in patients with osteoporosis due to decreased subchondral bone mass can cause uneven distribution of pressure on articular cartilage and accelerated cartilage wear and degeneration, which in turn leads to the development of osteoarthritis. This study takes metabolic genes as an entry point and explores the mechanism of osteoporosis on osteoarthritis development through bioinformatics technology and big data analysis. Our study reveals that osteoporosis can affect the onset of osteoarthritis through UXS1 and GAMT genes expression to influence cell scorching and necrotizing apoptosis in osteoarthritic tissues. Further analysis of key upstream genes and important pathways affecting osteoarthritis provides new ideas to reveal the mechanisms by which osteoporosis leads to osteoarthritis, and then to seek new therapeutic targets for osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.
Multi-omics data integration in upper gastrointestinal cancers research: A review of concepts, approaches, and application
Authors: Mazloomnejad Radman , Ahmadi Armin , Piroozkhah Moein , Omranian Ayda Zhian , Zabihi Mohammad Reza , Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad Ehsan , Kavousi Kaveh , Salehi Zahra
Published: April 2023

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, including esophageal, gastric, liver, and pancreatic cancers, are a major medical and economic burden worldwide. Despite significant advances in radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted treatments for upper GI cancers in the past decade, a high recurrence rate and poor prognosis are still challenging in upper GI cancer management. This trouble is rooted in the current diagnosis methods and the lack of adequate and reliable diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers. The diagnosis of almost every disease of the upper GI tract still depends on invasive investigations such as endoscopy of the upper GI tract, manometry of the stomach and esophagus, or radiography. Although cancer was considered a single disease in the organ of origin in the past, today, it is accepted that cancer is a heterogeneous disease assuming the same organ of origin. Therefore, to conduct precision/personalized medicine, it seems necessary to have suitable biomarkers to make an accurate diagnosis, appropriate patient classification, prognosis assessment, and drug response in cancers. Systems biology and multi-omics research are strategies adopted to provide genetic and molecular biomarkers in cancer. Toward studying complex biological processes, multi-omics data analysis provides an opportunity to gain a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of cancer development and progression. Multi-omics approaches are new frameworks that integrate omics datasets, including genome, epigenome, transcriptome, proteome, metabolome, and metagenome, on the same set of samples to understand cancer's molecular and clinical characteristics better. Therefore, in this review, we focus on the integrated multi-omics studies conducted on esophageal, gastric, liver, and pancreatic cancers and discuss the results regarding diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as biomarkers that determine the response to treatment.
Building nutritionally meaningful product groups for loyalty card data: the LoCard Food Classification process
Authors: Kanerva Noora , Kinnunen Satu , Nevalainen Jaakko , Vepsäläinen Henna , fogelholm Mikael , Saarijärvi Hannu , Meinilä Jelena , Erkkola Maijaliisa
Published: April 2023

Analysing customer loyalty card data is a novel method for assessing dietary quality and changes in a population’s food consumption. However, prior to its use, the thousands of grocery products available in stores must be reclassified into appropriate categories suitable for the use of nutrition and health research. This paper depicts how such a classification is compiled and how it reflects the nutritional quality of the food classes. Healthfulness was considered the main criterion guiding the reclassification of the 3574 grocery product groups. In addition, the main ingredient of the product group, type of food and purpose of use, and carbon footprint were considered in the reclassification process. The classified food groups were linked with the national food composition database, and the nutrient profile was assessed by calculating the Nutrient Rich Food Index (NRFI) for each product group. Our four-level classification hierarchy had 38 food groups at its broadest level (Class 1). Only 1% (n=38) of the grocery product groups were left unclassified. Standard deviation in NRFI decreased from 0.21 to 0.08 from the broadest to the finest level of classification. We conclude it is possible to assign a great majority of the grocery product groups to classes based on their nutritional quality. However, the challenge is classification of product groups that lack detailed information on their contents or include main ingredients that have opposite health effects, such as products including both plant- and animal-based proteins.
Immediate Socio-Economic Impacts of Mindoro Oil Spill to Fisherfolk in Naujan, Philippines
Authors: Agaton Casper Boongaling , Guno Charmaine Samala , Labog Russel Añonuevo , Collera Angelie Azcuna
Published: April 2023

In February 2023, an oil tanker carrying 5660 bbl. of industrial fuel oil sank off Naujan in the Philippines causing an oil spill in the waters of Oriental Mindoro and nearby provinces. The disaster affected fishing communities as well as marine ecosystems including the Verde Island Passage, which is at the "center of the center of world's marine biodiversity". This study assesses the immediate social and economic impacts of this oil spill on various communities of Naujan coast. We conducted semi-structured interviews and employed a narrative analysis to explore the lived experiences of the fisherfolk on the oil spill and to understand its socio-economic impacts. With the prohibition of fishing and other aquatic activities, participants lost up to USD 1300 of income per week from fishing. The participants had no other source of income due to the lack of other skills or the opportunity for alternative livelihood in the community. While the government provided food packs and financial assistance, participants found these insufficient to sustain the basic family needs including food, utilities, education, and health. Traces of oil were also found in the sources of potable water affecting their daily household activities. The fisherfolk, which are communities vulnerable to natural and man-made hazards, had their subsistence, food security, and human well-being highly compromised. The findings provided recommendations for government interventions to mitigate the impacts of an oil spill and other future disasters, considering social, economic, and human ecological perspectives.
Influence of premorbid psychosocial stressors on chronic localized pain syndromes clinical characteristics (observational study)
Authors: Gertsog A. A. , Vorob’eva O. V. , Morozova T. E. , Reze A. G. , Zaugolnikova T. V. , Samokhina E. O.
Published: April 2023

Introduction. It is now recognized that stress plays an important role in the occurrence and exacerbation of chronic pain syndromes. Stress has a modulatory effect on the structures of the nervous system depending on the nature, duration and intensity of the stressor which is reflected in the clinical characteristics of pain.

Aim. To study the features of the clinical characteristics of chronic localized pain syndromes depending on the presence of psychosocial stressors at the onset of pain.

Materials and methods. The study included 118 patients with chronic localized pain syndromes 38 men (32.2%) and 80 women (67.8%) aged 19 to 66 years (mean age 41 ± 11 years). Depending on the presence of premorbid psychosocial stressors at the onset of pain patients were divided into two groups group I (main), group II (control). The research methods included a general clinical assessment of the pain syndrome characteristics, an assessment of the emotional state, psychosocial indicators and quality of life using special scales and tests. Statistical analysis was carried out using the StatTech v. 2.6.1.

Results. Patients of group I experience more than 4-6 episodes of exacerbations per year, the duration of pain is from 8 to 28 days, affecting an average of 4 (3; 6) localizations, using more descriptors (p < 0.001, p = 0.013, p = 0.014, p=0.017, p=0.002 resp.), more likely to suffer from headaches and cervicalgia (p = 0.004 and p < 0.001 resp.), use on average 4 (2; 5) drug group for pain relief (p = 0.004). Among patients with premorbid psychosocial stressors the proportion of women is 6.5 times higher (p < 0.001). A significantly greater number of patients with sleep disorders and anxiety were identified in group I (p < 0.001, p = 0.009 respectively), the total score in assessing fatigue was 24 (19; 39) points which corresponds to moderate fatigue (p = 0.009). The average stress score on the Holmes-Rahe scale was 80 (53; 102) (p < 0.001), the main stressful events are work-related problems. Direct statistically significant relationships between the level of stress and the characteristics of the pain syndrome were established the number of pain localizations, the intensity of pain, the number of descriptors (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001). The life quality index was 2 (2; 4) scores according to the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire which indicates   a decrease in the quality of life (p < 0.001) in group I. It was noted that the chances of stress onset of pain in an active lifestyle are 3.4 times lower (p = 0.012).

Conclusion. Premorbid psychosocial stressors are markers of the severity of chronic pain and affective distress. At the same time premorbid psychosocial stressors can be considered a modifiable factor. If it is assessed and recognized in time, the development of chronic pain and associated affective distress can be eliminated and potentially prevented.
Results of the observational program “NOSTALGIA” (new strategies for the treatment of algic syndromes in the lower back in patients with post-COVID syndrome)
Authors: Putilina M. V. , Shabalina N. I.
Published: April 2023

Introduction. Allergic syndromes occur in 85.7% of COVID-19 survivors, according to recent statistics. However, there is no clear understanding of the pathogenesis of post-COVID pain syndrome and no therapy algorithms have been developed.

Aim. To study the efficacy and safety of Alflutop (the bioactive concentrate from small sea fish (BCSSF)) in COVID-19 survivors with pain syndromes in the lower back (lumbosacral dorsopathy (LSD)) and osteoarthritis (OA)), who were previously treated with other chondroitin sulphate (CS) drugs.

Materials and methods. The study group included 50 patients with persistent pain in the lower back according to VAS scale (6.6 ± 1.5 scores) without chronic diseases, pain lasted for more than 1 month. The average age was 55.7 ± 3.5 years, 30 men and 20 women, who had mild or moderate COVID-19 in the period of 40 to 90 days before the study. Some patients had been previously diagnosed with LSD before they contracted COVID-19 and had exacerbations 1-2 times a year. Most of the patients also suffered from large-joint OA. Of all patients, 10 were primary patients (before COVID-19 was diagnosed) and received therapy with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and CS prior to enrolment in the study. The clinical examination provided to all patients included recording of complaints, medical history, a standard examination of the neurological status at visit 1, 2 (day 14–15), 3 (completion of therapy, 30 days after initiation of therapy) and 4 (2 months after visit 1). The pain was assessed according to VAS, and depression symptoms were measured according to the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. At visit 3, the patients were assessed according to the Clinical Global Impression scale. The standard laboratory test results were analysed.

Results. After administration of BCSSF, a pronounced relief of pain and high anxiety was observed in all patients by Day 14. 80% of patients had no pain syndrome without changes in laboratory test results by visit 4. The majority of patients evaluated their condition as good according to the Clinical Global Impression scale.

Conclusions. Early administration of BCSSF is topical in the therapy of post-COVID allergic syndromes.
Involvement immune response in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke
Authors: Vorobyev S. V. , Yanishevskiy S. N. , Kudriavtsev I. V. , Shubina K. M. , Antusheva M. S. , Kuznetsova R. N. , Serebriakova M. K. , Petukhova O. V.
Published: April 2023

Acute disorders of cerebral circulation are one of the leading problems of modern clinical medicine, due to their significant spread in the human population and the extremely negative impact exerted on the patient’s body. Currently available data allow us to talk about the multi-vector nature of the pathogenesis of ischemic brain damage. Within the framework of the cascade of developing pathochemical and pathophysiological processes, an essential role in the formation of ischemic stroke belongs to the inflammatory reaction occurring through the immune system’s response to cerebral tissue ischemia. One of the places of its implementation is the vessel wall located in the ischemic zone, where monocytes and neutrophils are attracted with the help of cell adhesion proteins. Complement activation plays a significant role, carried out mainly due to the C3 component or during the initialization of the mannose pathway. Activation of microglia and astrocytes plays a huge role directly in the focus of ischemia. It should be noted that in the process of activation, both microglia and astrocytes are able to acquire a pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory phenotype. The prevalence of the pro-inflammatory variant contributes to prolonged damage to brain tissue, while the predominance of the anti-inflammatory phenotype has a protective effect. An important role is played by a violation of the function of the blood-brain barrier, which provides an additional influx of leukocytes to the site of ischemia. In addition, individual subpopulations of T-lymphocytes penetrating through the damaged barrier also play a significant role in the organization and dynamics of the immuno-inflammatory response. The action of Th1 and Th2 cells, gamma-delta T lymphocytes, natural killer cells, as well as regulatory T lymphocytes has been most studied. The role of B-lymphocytes in the formation of a stroke focus is considered.