bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial dynamics and functions driven by compound microbial agents to simultaneously promote organic degradation and mitigate odor emissions during in-situ kitchen organic waste
Authors: Zou Shuping , Luo Yu , Ding Yiran , Liu Jinlong , Xue Yaping , Zheng Yuguo
Published: December 2023

The treatment of organic waste (OW) still faces the problems of large amounts of odor gas emissions and incomplete organic degradation. Therefore, to investigate the feasibility of simultaneously promoting organic matter degradation and mitigating odor emissions during in‑situ rapid biological reduction (IRBR) of organic waste, a study of the addition of compound microbial agents containing odor-reducing bacteria (ORB) and organic-degrading bacteria (ODB) was conducted. Results revealed that the co-addition biochar and compound microbial agents greatly achieved a higher organic degradation rate of 20.09% and decreased cumulative NH3 and H2S emissions of 45.14% and 27.25%, respectively. The microbial community analysis indicated that adding compound microbial agents reshaped microbial community composition throughout the process. With the addition of compound microbial agents, the inoculated Kocuria rosea and Acetobacter pasteurianus belonging to Proteobacteria gradually became dominant genera, and the abundance of Firmicutes was reduced which was positively correlated with NH3. These results revealed the potential microbial mechanism by which microbial communities influence odor release and organic degradation during IRBR process and indicated that inoculating compound microbial agent is a suitable strategy given the comprehensive emission reduction and biodegrading performance considerations.
Design and Validation of a Wearable Dynamometry System for Knee Extension-Flexion Torque Measurement
Authors: Park Sungwoo , Myong Youho , Cho Minwoo , Cho Seung Yeon , Lee Woo Hyung , Oh Byung-Mo , Kim Sungwan
Published: December 2023

Muscle strength assessments are vital in rehabilitation, orthopedics, and sports medicine. The significance of muscle strength lies in its ability to predict mortality and enhance quality of life. Muscle mass and strength can be effectively assessed using quadriceps and hamstrings. Conventional methods, including manual muscle tests and handheld dynamometers, are widely used but lack quantification and are rater-dependent. Isokinetic dynamometry (IKD), such as Biodex, is trustworthy but costly and limited in access; therefore, this study suggests a novel wearable dynamometry system (WDS) with knee-joint torque sensors and evaluated its efficacy in knee extension and flexion in 39 healthy adults. Comparing maximal isometric torque measurements, WDS and IKD showed high correlation and reliability for extension (Pearson’s r: 0.900; intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]: 0.893; standard error of measurement [SEM]: 9.85%; minimal detectable change [MDC]: 27.31%) and flexion (Pearson’s r: 0.870; ICC: 0.857; SEM: 11.93%; MDC: 33.07%). WDS demonstrated excellent inter-rater (Pearson’s r: 0.990; ICC: 0.993; SEM: 4.05%) and inter-session (Pearson’s r: 0.970; ICC: 0.984; SEM: 6.15%) reliability during extension/flexion. User feedback from 35 participants, including healthcare professionals, underscores WDS's positive user experience and clinical potential. The proposed WDS is a suitable alternative to IKD, providing high accuracy, reliability, and potentially greater accessibility.
Genome features and metabolic properties of Ca. Methylomicrobium oryzae, the first Methylomicrobium member isolated from rice fields
Authors: Rahalkar Monali C. , Khatri Kumal , Pandit Pranitha , Mohite Jyoti A.
Published: December 2023

Methanotrophs represent a group of bacteria that oxidize methane and are therefore environmentally very important. The cultivation of methanotrophs poses a challenge due to their specific cultivation conditions. Rice fields are important habitats where methanotrophs play a vital role in methane mitigation. Very few laboratories in the world culture methanotrophs. We recently cultured Methylomicrobium strain RS1 and reported it as a member of putative novel species (Ca. Methylomicrobium oryzae) using draft genome-based ANI and DDH parameters [1]. In the present work, we present the polyphasic characterization of this novel species which is the first species of Methylomicrobium being reported from rice fields. Ca. Methylomicrobium oryzae is the first cultured methanotroph to be described from rice field habitats and could be an important player in these ecosystems and awaits further studies. Methylomicrobium sequences have been reported from rice fields but there were no reports of cultivation of members from this group, and ours was the first report. The culture was difficult and slow in growth and could not be cryopreserved. Therefore, it cannot be deposited in two international culture collections and has to be maintained as a live culture in our laboratory. In the present study, we describe the biochemical characteristics, metabolic properties, and salient genome features of Ca. Methylomicrobium oryzae strain RS1.
Lightweight insulating oil-well cement filled with hollow glass microspheres and numerical simulation of its unsteady heat transfer process
Authors: Wang Hui , Ma Chong , Yuan Yihui , Chen Yanglei , Liu Tao , Wang Ning
Published: December 2023

During subsea natural gas extraction, the free water and gas molecules present in the reservoir and the low-temperature and high-pressure conditions of the subsea environment cause the formation of hydrates; the blockage of the wellbore due to these hydrates is a critical issue that affects flow safety. Located between the wellbore and casing, well cement plays an important role in strengthening the wellbore and sealing off the oil, gas, and water layers. A cement that exhibits optimal mechanical strength and enhanced thermal insulation properties can contribute to preventing hydrate formation. However, research on such materials is rare. In this study, lightweight and thermally insulated (LWTI) composites with the desired mechanical strength for deep-sea natural gas development were prepared using oil-well cement (OWC) as the matrix and hollow glass microspheres (HGM) as the filler. A two-phase mathematical model of the HGM/OWC LWTI composites was developed using the COMSOL Multiphysics software and solved using the finite element method. A transient heat transfer analysis of the HGM/OWC LWTI composites was performed. The effective thermal conductivities (keff) of the HGM/OWC LWTI composites were measured and the values agreed well with the simulation results. The keff of the composites was approximately 0.371 W/(m·℃) when the HGM (D51.8) content was 40 vol.%. Compared to the traditional OWC (thermal conductivity ~ 0.889 W/(m·℃)), the thermal insulation performance of the HGM/OWC LWTI composites was significantly improved. In addition, the density, mechanical properties, and water absorption of the HGM/OWC LWTI composites were investigated. The densities of the HGM/OWC LWTI composites were found to be low, ranging from 1.31 to 1.94 g/cm3. The HGM/OWC LWTI composites exhibited good compressive strength and low permeability. Thus, HGM/OWC LWTI has promising applications in the thermal insulation of cemented wellbores for deep-sea natural gas development.
The kinship coefficient but not male coloration predicts early offspring growth in lake char
Authors: Wedekind Claus , Garaud Laura , Nusbaumer David , Cunha Lucas Marques da , de Guttry Christian , Ançay Laurie , Atherton Audrey , Lasne Emlien
Published: December 2023

The ‘good genes’ hypotheses of sexual selection predict that females prefer males with strong ornaments because they are in good health and vigor and can afford the costs of the ornaments. A key assumption of these models is that male health and vigor are useful predictors of genetic quality and hence offspring performance. We tested this prediction in wild lake char (Salvelinus umbla) whose breeding coloration is known to reveal aspects of male health. We first reanalyzed results from sperm competition trials in which embryos of known parenthood had been raised singly in either a stress- or non-stress environment. Male coloration did not correlate with any measures of offspring performance. However, offspring growth was reduced with increased kinship coefficients between the parents. To test the robustness of these first observations, we collected a new sample of wild males and females, used their gametes in a full-factorial in vitro breeding experiment, and singly raised about 3,000 embryos in either a stress- or non-stress environment (stress induced by microbes). Again, male coloration did not predict offspring performance while offspring growth was reduced with increasing kinship between the parents. We conclude that, in lake char, the genetic benefits of mate choice would be strongest if females could recognize and avoid genetically related males, while male breeding colors may be more relevant in intra-sexual selection.
A Systematic pan-cancer analysis of ATIC as a prognostic biomarker in human tumors
Authors: Li Hui , Zhang Wen-Tao , Zhou Xiao-jie , Wu Wei-ming , Yao Fu-wen , Zhong Hao-jie , Zhan Nai-yang , Chen Jian-Wei , Zhan Yong-Qiang
Published: December 2023

Background
5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide formyltransferase/IMP cyclohydrolase (ATIC) has been identified as a potential biomarker for cancer. However, the biological functions and implications of ATIC in pan-cancer context remain largely unexplored.
methods
We utilized The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to acquire RNA-seq and clinical follow-up data for 33 different tumor types. This data was analyzed to investigate the expression patterns and biological functions of ATIC across pan-cancer, encompassing diverse molecular and immune subtypes. The prognostic and diagnostic significance of ATIC in a pan-cancer context was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves. Finally, our study specifically focused on Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma (LIHC) to elucidate the potential mechanisms underlying ATIC's role in LIHC.
results
ATIC expression was found to be up-regulated in a broad spectrum of tumor tissues, exhibiting significant variability across different molecular and immune subtypes. Furthermore, ATIC demonstrated high accuracy in cancer prediction and was notably correlated with the prognosis of various cancers. Specifically, in Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma (LIHC), ATIC's expression was significantly linked to clinicopathologic features, a range of cancer-related pathways, the extent of immune cell infiltration, and m6A modifications.
conclusion
ATIC could potentially serve as a molecular biomarker for both the diagnosis and prognosis of pan-cancer. Additionally, it may play a significant role in the progression and metastasis of LIHC through various mechanisms.
Effect of chronic cold stress on gut microbial diversity, intestinal inflammation and pyroptosis in mice
Authors: Lv Hongming , Xia Shijie , He Yuxi , Qiao Chunyu , Liu Jiahe , Guo Jingru , Li Shize
Published: December 2023

Hypothermia is an essential environmental factor in gastrointestinal diseases, but the main molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis remain unclear. The current study sought to better understand how chronic cold stress affects gut damage and its underlying mechanisms. In this work, to establish chronic cold stress (CS)-induced intestinal injury model, mice were subjected to prolonged cold exposure (4°C) for 3 h per day for 3 weeks. Our results indicated that CS led to gut injury via inducing changes of heat shock proteins 70 (HSP70) and apoptosis-related (caspases-3, Bax and Bcl-2) proteins; enhancing expression of intestinal tight-related (ZO-1 and occludin) proteins; promoting releases of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), interleukin1β (IL-1β), IL-18 and IL-6 inflammatory mediators in the ileum; and altering gut microbial diversity. Furthermore, persistent cold exposure resulted in the cleavage of pyroptosis-related Gasdermin D (GSDMD) protein by regulating the NLRP3/ASC/caspase-1 and caspase-11 pathway, and activation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)-mediated nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways, which are strongly associated with changes in gut microbiota diversity. Taken together, these investigations provide new insights into the increased risk of intestinal disorders at extremely low temperatures and establish a theoretical foundation for the advancement of novel pharmaceutical interventions targeting cold-related ailments.
PIH1D1 as a potential biomarkers candidate for diagnostic approach in Breast Cancer
Authors: Singh Dhiraj Kumar , jit Bimal Prasad , Verma Amit Kumar , Pradhan Biswajita , Mir Riyaz Ahmad
Published: December 2023

The R2TP complex is a co-chaperone conserved from Yeast to mammals and comprises of RUVBL1, RUVBL2, PIH1D1 and RPAP3 in Human is known to be a specialized Co-chaperone of Hsp-90 protein. A number of multi-subunit complexes, such as RNA polymerase II, tiny nucleolar ribonucleoproteins, and complexes containing phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase-like kinases, are assembled and matured by this protein complex. The expression level of PIH1D1 were analyzed across cancers using TIMER 2 and compared normal and breast cancer tissues using TNM plot. Survival Plot were done by GEPIA. TCGA data analyzed for the evaluation of the expression of PIH1D1 in breast cancer and both Histological and Clusters and Interaction analysis with the help of Human Protein atlas Database. The results indicate that PIH1D1 is highly expressed in breast cancer than normal tissues. So, PIH1D1 can be used for early detection as well as indicators of prognosis of Breast. Moreover, PIH1D1 may become the target of immunotherapy for Breast cancer in the future. Our current study is limited, though, because the data we examined came exclusively from bioinformatics source. Through both in vivo and in vitro investigations, we will investigate the possible mechanism of PIH1D1 in breast cancer cell lines and clinical tissues.
Cattle intensification based on silvopastoral systems with Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit as a strategy to increase cattle production and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions in the Caribbean region of Colombia
Authors: Rivera Julián E. , Villegas Gonzalo O. , Serna Laura P. , Chará Julián
Published: December 2023

Different cattle production interventions have been proposed to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and increase animal productivity, but few studies have identified their real potential under grazing conditions and at the whole system level. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of silvopastoral systems (SPS) with Leucaena leucocephala on total GHG emissions, emission intensity, GHG balance and cattle productivity in a series of production scenarios in northern Colombia. A life cycle analysis (LCA) approach was used to evaluate one baseline system (BL) based on pastures and four SPS intervention scenarios. For this analysis, the emissions from enteric fermentation and manure were determined in situ. Methane emissions from enteric fermentation were 9.7% lower in the SPS with leucaena than in BL systems (p = 0.0369). Emission factors for manure were higher in the BL systems (p < 0.05) as were emission intensities to produce one kg of fat and protein corrected milk (FPCM) and one kg of live weight gain (LWG). For animal production and GHG balance, it was found that the inclusion of leucaena increased animal production up to four times compared to the BL system and mitigate GHG emissions per hectare up to 86% due to carbon sequestration. In conclusion, leucaena SPS are an alternative to mitigate climate change under grazing conditions, as they reduce GHG emissions and increase animal productivity.
Breast volume fluctuations are associated with oestradiol and progesterone changes across the menstrual cycle
Authors: Rix Jacqueline , Mills Chris , Ross Emma , Allen Sian , Lai Adrian , Wakefield-Scurr Joanna
Published: December 2023

Background:Breast volume changes across the menstrual cycle, but the relationship of this to oestradiol, progesterone and awareness of this change has yet to be characterised. Across the menstrual cycle, this study investigated relationships between breast volume, oestradiol, progesterone, and perceptions of volume change, with associated behaviour change.
Methods:Fifteen women undertook saliva hormone testing bidaily throughout one menstrual cycle. Women attended six laboratory appointments across their cycle (day 2, ovulation-2, ovulation, ovulation+7, menses-3, day 2 (month two)) for 3D surface scanning (breast volume), perception of volume and behaviour change was recorded.
Results:Breast volume changed by +7.3%, but up to -41.7% in one woman. Volume asymmetry increased around ovulation (5.1%). Breast volume change strongly correlated with oestradiol and progesterone, but was delayed by three appointments (left r=0.85; right r=0.95) and one appointment (left r=0.84; right r=0.84), respectively. For women whose volume decreased in follicular and increased in luteal phases (typical pattern; n=11) oestradiol decreased by 13.3%, compared to those who did not (n=4) (14.2%). Breast volume was not associated with perceived breast volume change.
Conclusion:
Average breast volume increases of ~one-third bra cup might not be meaningful; however, inter-participant variability was large, with up to ~1 bra cup change. As women did not accurately perceive their volume changes, measuring individuals’ cyclical breast volume would be useful for bra fitting. Volume peaked ~13 days after oestradiol and ~four days after progesterone peak. However, large variability makes it difficult to predict this; studies should take multiple samples across the cycle.
What is more important for structuring Dragonfly assemblages in Subtropical Grasslands lentic water bodies in the Pampa biome: space or vegetation?
Authors: Vareira Luísa , Ortega Jean Carlo Gonçalves , Juen Leandro , Sendoya Sebastian Felipe , Iserhard Cristiano Agra
Published: December 2023

For more than six decades, ecologists have been investigating how biological communities are structured and the implications for conservation. The Niche and Island Biogeography theories stand out as the basis for predictions related to diversity-environmental heterogeneity and diversity-area relationships, respectively. Although positive relationships are expected, the relative roles of environmental heterogeneity (EH) and area in structuring lentic water body assemblages are unclear for dragonflies. We sought to investigate the effects of area and EH, expecting that there would be a positive influence on dragonfly species richness and abundance. We sampled dragonfly adults for three months in 12 water bodies in the Pampa biome of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. We quantified water body area and vegetation, as an EH measure to evaluate how these predictors explained dragonfly species richness and abundance. We found that water body area, but not EH, was relevant to dragonfly diversity. This indicates that dragonflies may have perceived the vegetation as homogeneous and thus moved across the landscape without perceiving barriers that would hinder new habitat colonization. Therefore, the structure of water body dragonfly assemblages in Pampas grasslands was more influenced by water body area than environmental heterogeneity. Implication for insect conservation We highlight the relevance of tropical lentic water bodies in harboring species not registered yet, an important knowledge shortfall for biodiversity. We also found a high dragonfly diversity in large water bodies, which means that in managed landscapes the conservation of large areas is required to sustain this high diversity.
Understanding Turkish Students’ STEM Career Aspirations, STEM Hopes and Goals, Parental Perception, and Cultural Capital: A Path Analysis
Authors: KÜÇÜKAYDIN MENŞURE ALKIŞ , ULUM HAKAN
Published: December 2023

Developing students' career goals in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is a high priority in Turkey and around the world. Many educational investments are being made in the country, and this is shown in the development goals. It is important to understand the variables that may be related to these goals in order to best support students on their career path. This study examined the relationship between STEM career aspirations, hopes and goals in STEM, cultural capital, and perceived parental expectations in a Turkish sample (n = 633). The findings showed that there were positive relationships between STEM cultural capital, perceived parental support, and STEM-related hopes and goals. In addition, parental perception influenced STEM career aspirations both directly and indirectly. In the research model, the greatest effect was found to be between parental support and STEM hopes and goals. These discoveries provide insight for educational policymakers, parents, and teachers who are helping students develop STEM career aspirations.
Irrigation Management Strategies and Monitoring of Water Status through Infrared Thermography in Melon Production
Authors: Costa James do Nascimento , Gomes Francisco Fábio Lima , Aragão Márcio Facundo , Neto Luis Gonzaga Pinheiro , Azevedo Benito Moreira , Lima Joilson Silva , Costa Francisco Walisson do Nascimento , Frazão Diogo Sales
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to evaluate, through infrared thermography, the water status of melon crop during the fruiting phase and the productivity relationships resulting from fixed deficit irrigation (FDI) and regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) in two cultivation cycles. Nine irrigation treatments based on ETc (%) were applied, comprising four FDI treatments (T1- 125%; T2-100%; T3-75%; T4-50% throughout the cycle) and five RDI treatments (T5, T6, T7, T8, and T9) with replacements varying by 25% of ETc at stages I, II, III, and IV of the melon crop. Data on plant temperature (Tc) and air temperature (Ta) at 8:00, 12:00, and 16:00 h, leaf water potential (ΨF), gas exchange (gs and E), and soil moisture (SMO) were obtained at 45 days after transplanting in cycle I and at 42 days after transplanting in cycle II. Using the Tc and Ta data, thermographic indices ∆Tcanopy−air, CWSI, and IG were calculated. After harvesting, productivity and water use efficiency (WUE) were determined. Gas exchange did not strongly correlate with water replacement for FDI treatments in both conducted cycles. The ∆Tcanopy−air, CWSI, and IG indices significantly correlated with ΨF and SMO at the monitored times; however, 12:00 h was found to be the most suitable time for thermographic monitoring. Productivity and WUE were higher in the RDI treatments, with the T6 treatment (50% in phase I, 100% in phase II, and 75% in phases III and IV) standing out. Correlations between WUE and thermographic indices showed better results for RDI in cycle I, with both indices at 8 h and 12 h. In cycle II, better correlations were presented by FDI at both monitored.
A Comparative First Principles Study of Two-Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: TUNALI Aylin YILDIZ , YURDASAN Nazli BOZ , AKYUZ Gonul BILGEC
Published: December 2023

In recent years, studies on the two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides have become important since their potentials have useful properties in technological applications. In this respect, the structural, electronic and vibrational properties of the 12 transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) MX2 (M = Mo,W,Cr,Ni; X = S,Se,Te) sheets are investigated using first-principles calculations. The calculated band structures show that all TMDs are semiconductors with a direct band gap at the K point, except NiX2 ones with indirect band gaps. We find energetic and dynamical stabilities of the MX2 sheets, while NiSe2 lattice becomes unstable with negative frequencies appearing in acoustic modes near the K point. We also discuss the role of average atomic mass and interatomic bonding in determining the Debye temperatures of dynamically stable dichalcogenide sheets.
RIPC may promotes angiogenesis of myocardium by downregulation of miR-148a
Authors: Li Muwei , Zhao Zhenzhou , Nie Ming , Guo Quan , Zhang Zhiwen
Published: December 2023

Angiogenesis is essential for repairing of cardiac tissue after myocardial infarction[1]. Remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) induced by cycles of transient limb ischemia and reperfusion is a very efficient cardioprotective strategy, which has pleiotropic effects, such as angiogenesis etc[1], [2]. Over the last decades many experimental and clinical studies have proven cardioprotective effects of RIPC, especially in the context of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury[3]–[5]. However, the detailed mechanisms how RIPC works remains incomplete. Here, we report our investigation about the effects of RIPC in angiogenesis. And a possible mechanism that RIPC promotes angiogenesis by downregulation of miR-148a. In our study, RIPC downregulated miR-148a level in humans’ serum. Moreover, MicroRNA stem loop RT-PCR assays demonstrated that chronic RIPC (cRIPC) had lower expression of miR-148a than one-time RIPC. By analyzing HUVEC cells with overexpression or knockdown of miR-148a, it revealed that knockdown of miR-148a led to overexpression of ROCK1, YAP and Ang2, which also promotes angiogenesis. On the other hand, overexpression of miR-148a inhibited expression of ROCK1, YAP and Ang2. Overexpression of miR-148a also inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation of HUVEC cells. In conclusion, this study reveals that downregulation of miR-148a may play important role in RIPC by promoting angiogenesis. Downregulation of miR-148a could increase the expression level of ROCK1, YAP and Ang2. ROCK1 and YAP may be involved in the pathway that knockdown or downregulation of miR-148a may enhance angiogenesis through Ang2. The results provide novel understanding of the mechanism of RIPC towards angiogenesis and effect of miR-148a in angiogenesis.
Causal association between childhood obesity and risk of neuroblastoma: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Luo Xi , Luo Jie , Du Jun , Nie Meilan , Chen Youwang , Wang Wei , Gu Huajian
Published: December 2023

Background: Childhood obesity increased risk for cancer in adulthood，but no existing comprehensive Mendelian randomization (MR) studies have focused on how childhood obesity affects pediatric tumors. This study aimed to perform a MR analysis to assess the causal association between childhood obesity and neuroblastoma risk using publicly available genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary statistics.
Methods: Childhood obesity data and neuroblastoma data are from the IEU open GWAS project, which were subjected to MR analyses. In this study, the inverse variance weighting (IVW) method was used as the predominant analysis method and was complemented by MR-Egger, simple mode, weighted median and weighted mode methods. The MR-PRESSO method was utilized to identify horizontal pleiotropy and potential outliers.
Results: This study indicated that childhood obesity rises the possibility of neuroblastoma, which was significant in the IVW [OR (95%CI), 1.209 (1.016–1.439), P = 0.033], MR-Egger [OR (95%CI), 2.889 (1.178–7.084), P = 0.046] and weighted-median [OR (95%CI), 1.302(1.038–1.632), P = 0.022] analyses, but nonsignificant in the simple mode [OR (95%CI), 1.331 (0.927–1.909), P = 0.152] and weighted mode [OR (95%CI), 1.357 (1.000–1.840), P = 0.078] analyses. No significant heterogeneity or potential pleiotropy was detected, and the possibility of weak IVs was also excluded.
Conclusion: This study revealed that childhood obesity increases the risk of neuroblastoma.
Critical buckling load analysis of porous orthotropic two-layered cylindrical panels based on trigonometric shear deformation theory
Authors: Turan Ferruh
Published: December 2023

The aim of this paper is to analyze the elastic buckling of porous orthotropic two-layered cylindrical panels based on the trigonometric shear deformation theory. In the porous two-layered cylindrical panel model, porosities are dispersed by uniform and non-uniform distribution patterns. The porosity-dependent material properties of two-layered cylindrical panel are assumed to vary along the layer’s thickness direction. First, the Virtual work principle is applied to derive governing equations. Then, the critical buckling load of the porous orthotropic two-layered cylindrical panels are obtained using the Galerkin’s solution procedure. Furthermore, the reliability of the current formulation is validated by several examples. Finally, the influence of porosity coefficients, porosity distribution patterns, geometrical parameters, and lamination sequences of the panel on the critical buckling load are investigated in detail.
Translation and Psychometric Evaluation of the Persian Version of the refugee post-migration stress scale (RPMS)
Authors: khaki Soore , Hosseinzadegan Fariba , Mousavi Seyed Qasem , barasteh salman
Published: December 2023

Background
Refugees usually face stressful events both in their destination country and during migration. So far no scale has been designed to reflect the post-migration stress in Persian-speaking refugees based on their current life conditions. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the refugee post-migration stress scale (RPMS).
Methods
This methodological and cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022 on 355 Iranian refugees in Turkey. Inclusion criteria were being literate and willingness to participate in the study. Also, people who were unwilling to continue cooperation and incompletely filled questionnaire were excluded from the study. First, the original version of the scale was translated into Farsi using the standard Forward-Backward method. Then the validity of the scale was assessed through face validity, content validity, and construct validity using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and convergent validity using two scales of WHO-5 and HSCL-25. The reliability of the scale was evaluated by the internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha). SPSS version 16 and LISREL version 8.8 software packages were used for data analysis.
Results
The face validity and content validity of the scale were confirmed, respectively, by refugees and experts with slight changes. In the exploratory factor analysis, 3 new dimensions named Communicational Distress, Supportive Distress, and Social Distress were extracted with a cumulative variance of 56.19%. Also, confirmatory factor analysis revealed a good fit of the model (RMSEA: 0.1, NFI: 0.91; CFI: 0.93; IFI: 0.93; GFI 0.79; standardized RMR: 0.085). The convergent validity assessed by the Pearson correlation between RPMS and Hopkins Symptom Checklist 25 and World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index, respectively, were ((r = 0.33, P = 0.001) and (r= -0.30, P = 0.00)). The internal consistency of the scale (Cronbach’s alpha coefficient: 0.88) indicated its appropriate reliability.
Conclusion
According to the psychometric results of this scale in the Persian-speaking refugee population, it is a suitable scale to be used in measuring post-migration stress in refugees. Another advantage of this scale is its brevity and shortness, and it takes a short time to complete.
Design of Handover Strategy for Mobile Communication Network
Authors: Lv Zhiguo , Yu Jia , Qi Meng , Shao Hongxiang , Shi Nianfeng
Published: December 2023

In the new generation of mobile communication heterogeneous networks, the density of base station is high. Frequent handover operations may cause some base stations to receive a large number of access requests in a short period of time, resulting in network congestion and handover failures. To address this issue, a group based handover strategy is proposed in the paper. The base station obtains probability statistics on the movement patterns of vehicles and pedestrians based on road map information within its coverage area. Users are grouped according to the statistical results. The group based handover is adopted to replace independent handover. By calculating and comparing the handover probability of the current service user terminal switching to other base station, with the optimization goals of handover success rate, bandwidth utilization and network equilibrium gain, the group is updated to ensure its rationality and effectiveness. The simulation results show that this strategy can improve the handover success rate, bandwidth utilization and network equilibrium gain.
The Effects of Chromium on the High Temperature Corrosion of Ni-Cr Alloys Exposed to Calcium Sulfate
Authors: Ury Nicholas , Ravi Vilupanur
Published: December 2023

Calcium and sulfur rich deposits have been linked to failure of turbine components as a consequence of high temperature exposures (> 1000°C). There are only limited studies on the effects of these deposits on the degradation behavior of turbine alloys. To gain further understanding of this phenomenon, a systematic study was undertaken with model binary nickel-chromium alloys. Three alloys with different chromium contents – low, medium, and high – represented by Ni-5Cr, Ni-10Cr and Ni-18Cr, were exposed to CaSO4-deposit-induced corrosion in the 900–1100°C temperature range. At 1000 and 1100°C, the decomposition of CaSO4 led to the formation of calcium chromates and chromium sulfides. At the lower temperature, 900°C, there was only limited decomposition of CaSO4, allowing the formation of a continuous Cr2O3 scale was able to form.
Sturm-Liouville operator with an incomplete system of eigenfunctions and having a finite incompleteness defect
Authors: Kanguzhin Baltabek , Nurakhmetov Daulet , Aniyarov Almir
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we study one Sturm-Liouville problem with a nonlinear boundary condition that depends on a parameter. Depending on the value of the boundary parameter, eigenvalue problems can arise with complete, incomplete, and overflowing systems of eigenfunctions in the functional space L2[0, 1]. An example of a Sturm-Liouville operator with an incomplete system of eigenfunctions is given and the finite defect of incompleteness is calculated. Also it is given, the system of eigenfunctions of which has an excess equal to minus one. The interval of variation of the boundary parameter is found for which the system of eigenfunctions of the Sturm-Liouville operator is complete.
Intertumoral heterogeneity of bifocal breast cancer: a morphological and molecular study
Authors: Finsterbusch¹ Kai , Diest² Paul J. , Focke¹ Cornelia M. , Focke Cornelia M.
Published: December 2023

Purpose
To analyze concordance rates between individual foci of bifocal BC for histological grade, type and intrinsic subtype based on immunohistochemical (IHC) and mRNA-testing using MammaTyper.
Methods
We evaluated histological grade and type as well as intrinsic subtype based on IHC status for estrogen and progesterone receptors, HER2 and the mitotic activity index in 158 individual foci of 79 bifocal BC. A subgroup of 31 cases additionally underwent mRNA-based subtyping using the MammaTyper (MT) test. We calculated concordance rates between individual foci, as well as Cohen's Kappa (ᴋ).
Results
For 79 bifocal BC, concordance rates between individual foci for grade, histological type, and IHC-based subtype were 69.6% (ᴋ=0.53), 92.4% (ᴋ=0.81), and 74.7% (ᴋ=0.62), respectively. In the MT subgroup of 31 bifocal BC, concordance rates between individual foci for grade, histological type, IHC-based and mRNA-based intrinsic subtype were 87.1% (ᴋ=0.78), 90.3% (ᴋ=0.73), 87.1% (ᴋ=0.82), and 87.1% (ᴋ=0.7), respectively. Overall concordance between IHC- and mRNA-based subtype in the MT subgroup was 79% (ᴋ=0.7). In 6/79 cases (7.6%), testing of the smaller focus added clinically relevant information either on IHC- or mRNA-level: four cases showed high hormonal receptor expression while the expression in the larger focus was negative or low, warranting additional endocrine treatment; two cases presented with higher proliferative activity in the smaller focus, warranting additional chemotherapy.
Conclusion
In bifocal BC, intertumoral heterogeneity on the morphological, immunohistochemical and molecular level is common, with discordant intrinsic subtype in up to 25% between individual foci, with about 8% clinically relevant discordances.
Astrocyte-Mediated Neuronal Irregularities and Dynamics: The Complexity of the Tripartite Synapse
Authors: Garcia Den Whilrex , Jacquir Sabir
Published: December 2023

Despite significant advancements in recent decades, gaining a comprehensive understanding of brain computations remains a significant challenge in neuroscience. Using computational models is crucial for unraveling this complex phenomenon and is equally indispensable for studying neurological disorders. This endeavor has created many neuronal models that capture brain dynamics at various scales and complexities. These models range from highly detailed multi-compartmental models like the Hodgkin-Huxley model to simpler models like the leaky integrate-and-fire model. However, most existing models do not account for the potential influence of glial cells, particularly astrocytes, on neuronal physiology. This gap persists even with the emerging evidence indicating their critical role in regulating neural network activity, plasticity, and even neurological pathologies. While some literature focuses on modeling interactions between neurons and glial cells, these approaches are often sophisticated, mimicking the complexity of the physiological phenomenon. In our work, we aim to propose a simplified tripartite synapse model encompassing the presynaptic neuron, postsynaptic neuron, and astrocyte. This model is more straightforward yet still includes the primary astrocytic calcium dynamics. We defined the tripartite synapse model based on the Adaptive Exponential Integrate-and-Fire neuron model and a simplified scheme of the astrocyte model previously proposed by Postnov. Our results demonstrate the model’s ability to replicate essential synaptic transmission dynamics attributed to astrocytic calcium dynamics within the context of the tripartite synapse. Through our simulations, we propose that astrocytes can modify and shape the behavior and can introduce irregularities in the firing pattern of both presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons.
The Mediating Effects of Self-concept on The Relationship Between Parenting Styles and Young Children’s Social Problem-Solving in Turkey
Authors: Sezer Türker , Koçyiğit Sinan
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between parenting styles, young children's social problem-solving skills, and the mediating role of self-concept in a sample of 200 Turkish preschoolers aged 48-72 months, with an equal distribution of male and female participants. The results supported the proposed model, demonstrating that the impact of democratic style on social problem-solving skills was partially mediated by self-concept, specifically self-esteem, as a parenting measure. These findings suggest that self-esteem is an essential individual characteristic to consider in relation to preschoolers' social relationships, in addition to the influence of democratic parenting behaviors.
Climate-related risk assessment in water safety plans: the case study of Acque Bresciane (Italy)
Authors: Biasibetti Michela , Longhi Elisa , Bozza Sonia , Zanotti Chiara , Rotiroti Marco , Fumagalli Letizia , Caschetto Mariachiara , Redaelli Agnese , Bonomi Tullia
Published: December 2023

Acque Bresciane is a public company that manages the integrated water cycle for more than 580,000 inhabitants in the Province of Brescia, in the north of Italy, providing drinking water, waste water treatment, and sewer systems. Drinking water systems are supplied with different types of groundwater, springs, and surface water sources (from lakes and rivers) whose availability and quality can be affected by climate change events. A multidisciplinary team, in collaboration with the University of Milano Bicocca, developed a specific Water Safety Plan (WSP) risk matrix focusing on the evaluation of climate-related hazardous events and calculation of their likelihood of occurrence, also using thematic maps. Moreover, to reduce the residual risks, in the risk matrix, possible control measures are suggested, such as the activation of an emergency plan, the use of other water sources, storage tanks, and interconnection with other water distribution networks. This work shows a simple and effective tool that can be applied by drinking water utilities to evaluate climate-related catchment risks, using a WSP risk matrix, thematic maps, and possible control measures to reduce risks in terms of water quality and availability and to respond with resilience to changes.
The Blessed Virgin Mary A Faithful Companion to God and Man. The Lucan Marian Perspective. PART TWO: The Blessed Virgin Mary as our Great Siste r
Authors: Ndegwa Kabatha Zachary
Published: December 2023

The term a great brother is in use today in many circles which captures the aspect of a faithful friend or companion. One who stands with the side that feels in adequate in one way or the other. This phenomenon is both manifested in the sacred as well as the secular realms of human existence. The inadequacy employed here refers to a wide range of being incapacitated. In our scope we will employ the term great sister instead of the great brother to refer to the Blessed Virgin Mary as our great sister. It is beyond doubt that our Blessed Mother stands tall in so many ways as compared to the modern man. It is in this line that Mary fits well not only to be called our companion but our great sister. Although the great brother may be understood in terms of political economical or even social power Mary has noble values than these ones. In this paper we propose to follow St Luke in his Marian presentation and offer her to all Christians today as our great sister. We refer to Mary as our great sister not out of her worldly power or wealth but simply because of her faith, holiness and commitment in her calling after she gave birth to our Saviour. As our great sister she stands with each of us in company of her Son with the sole intention of uplifting our lowly nature to the nature of her Divine Son. The presence of our blessed mother in our lives will seduce us with her heroic virtues which will be beneficial in our Christian life. To achieve our stated purpose in this article we shall articulate the role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the event of presenting the child Jesus in the temple.

We will then examine her active presence and contribution in the first community of believers gathered in Jerusalem awaiting the coming of the Holy Spirit anda conclusion will follow thereafter. However it is worth to note that we have also carried forward the pericope on Magnificat simply because it is our opinion that the theme of Mary as our great sister is well captured within this scope. Hence, the ongoing companionship will create more zealous Christians in professing their faith both in word and deed for Mary has taught us so.
Witraż świecki i kościelny: sens i walor
Authors: Nadrowski Henryk
Published: December 2023

In the modern world, so strongly surrounded by sound, light and colour, it is worth to notice their impact on various fields of our everyday life and celebrating. The multicoloured play in the sun is a phenomenon of stained glass windows. They enliven our life, stimulate imagination, encourage reflection, meditation and even contemplation. Secular stained glass windows usually show the beauty of nature, for example: flowers, but also heraldic themes, or portraits. In an object of worship it should be decided whether or not a stained glass window should be placed. The stained glass cannot be treated only as a decoration or an extra under any circumstances. It should refer to the title or dedication of the particular church. It is advisable to reach for Christian symbolism or iconography, the message of Bible and the spirit of liturgy celebrated. It is the stained glass itself that has to contribute to the atmosphere of prayer, to increase integrity, sense and dignity of a sacred object. Naturally, the proper quality of the stained glass windows should also be helpful.
Alejandro Guzmán Brito, desde las garantías romanas a los valores negociables desmaterializados del mercado de valores chileno
Authors: Guerrero Becar Jose Luis
Published: December 2023

Este trabajo revela el aporte del eximio romanista Alejandro Guzmán Brito a la moderna dogmática del derecho del mercado de valores chileno, quizás el ámbito más desconocido de las investigaciones de Alejandro Guzmán, en que desde sus publicaciones sobre el derecho de prenda en el derecho chileno, escritas en su última década de trabajo investigativo, es posible, luego de realizar una revisión cronológicas y sistemática de estos, identificar la existencia de una línea de investigación en que a partir de la prenda sin desplazamiento le lleva al análisis dogmático de los títulos valores, su desmaterialización y una nueva noción de valores negociables y de las garantías que es posible constituir sobre ellos, pudiendo identificarse que las modernas garantías sobre valores negociables o instrumentos financieros desmaterializado o sin soporte material, ya eran reconocidas en el derecho romano clásico pero que habían perdido su concepción original durante la evolución del derecho mercantil continental, particularmente en el derecho francés, permitiéndose que la excepción de la prenda sin desplazamiento, se transforme en una regla general, lo que es volver a la noción del derecho romano clásico sobre prenda e hipoteca.
Empathy at the Crossroads
Authors: Cohen-Skali Shlomit
Published: December 2023

Legal docu-performances (LDPs) are the staging of actual legal cases that have already been decided by the court. As such, they can serve as a laboratory in which the interface between theater and law is explored. The transformation from the courtroom to the stage aims to foster a critical examination of the legal process and its influence on public discourse. In this paper I focus on the place of empathy in this examination. While the role of empathy has been contested in both the legal and the theatrical sphere, empathy has also been advocated as essential to the pursuit of justice. In probing the role of empathy in LDPs, I distinguish different kinds of empathy and different strategies of employing empathy in the service of critique. I illustrate these strategies through three performance case studies that challenge the court decision on which they are based: one based on affective empathy, one on cognitive empathy, and one on a combination of the two. I stress, in particular, the impact of these LDPs on the public understanding of the legal and moral issues addressed by performances.