bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peripheral Intravenous Therapy in Internal Medicine Department—Antibiotics and Other Drugs’ Consumption and Characteristics of Vascular Access Devices in 2-Year Observation Study
Authors: Piekiełko Piotr , Mucha Anna , Stawowczyk Ewa , Wójkowska-Mach Jadwiga
Published: July 2024

Background: The aim of the study was to characterize the procedure of peripheral intravenous therapy (IT), including the characteristics of vascular access and related complications and qualitative and quantitative analyses of drug consumption. Materials and Methods: A two-year, retrospective, single-center observational study was conducted. The criterion for including a patient in the study was the use of peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) upon admission or during the stay at the internal medicine department (IMD). Results: The main reasons for hospitalization were exacerbations of chronic diseases for 78% of the patients and acute infections for 22%. IT was used in 83.6% of all the patients. IT was used primarily for antibiotics (5009.9 defined daily doses (DDD)). Further, 22.6% of the PIVCs stopped functioning within 24 h, more frequently in infectious patients. The main reasons for PIVC removal were leakage (n = 880, 26.6%) and occlusion (n = 578, 17.5%). The PIVC locations were mostly suboptimal (n = 2010, 59.5%), and such locations were related to leakage and occlusion (p = 0.017). Conclusions: In the IMD, most patients require the use of a PIVC, and antibiotics dominate the group of drugs administered intravenously. Up to 1/5 of peripheral intravenous catheters are lost within the first 24 h after their insertion, with most of them placed suboptimally. A properly functioning PIVC appears to be crucial for antimicrobial treatment.
A Virtual Reality-Based Simulation Tool for Assessing the Risk of Falls in Older Adults
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad Asif , Gouveia Élvio Rúbio , Bermúdez i Badia Sergi
Published: July 2024

Falls are considered a significant cause of disability, pain, and premature deaths in older adults, often due to sedentary lifestyles and various risk factors. Combining immersive virtual reality (IVR) with physical exercise, or exergames, enhances motivation and personalizes training, effectively preventing falls by improving strength and balance in older people. IVR technology may increase the ecological validity of the assessments. The main goal of our study was to assess the feasibility of using a KAVE-based VR platform combining simulations of Levadas and a cable car to perform a balanced assessment and profiling of the older adult population for high risk of falls and the related user experience. A VR-based platform using a Wii balance board and a CAVE was developed to assess balance and physical fitness. Validated by the Biodex Balance System (BBS), 25 older adults participated in this study. The usability and presence were measured through the System Usability Scale and ITC-SOPI questionnaires, respectively. The IVR system showed a high presence and a good usability score of 75. Significant effects were found in the maximum excursion of the centre of pressure (COP) on the anterior–posterior axis during the cable car simulation (CCS), correlating with BBS metrics. Multiple discriminative analysis models and the support vector machine classified fall risk with moderate to high accuracy, precision, and recall. The system accurately identified all high-risk participants using the leave-one-out method. This study suggests that an IVR-based platform based on simulations with high ecological validity can be used to assess physical fitness and identify individuals at a higher risk of falls.
Vibration Suppression of Multi-Stage-Blade AMB-Rotor Using Parallel Adaptive and Cascaded Multi-Frequency Notch Filters
Authors: Zhang Min , Tang Jiqiang , Zhou Jinxiang , Han Xue , Wang Kun
Published: July 2024

The application of active magnetic bearings (AMBs) in high-speed rotating machinery faces the challenge of micro-vibration. This research addresses the vibration control of a high-speed magnetically suspended turbo molecular pump (MSTMP) with rotor mass imbalance vibration and multi-stage-blade modal vibration. A novel integrated AMB controller consisting of parallel co-frequency adaptive notch filter (ANF) and cascaded multi-frequency improved double-T notch filters (DTNFs) is proposed. To suppress rotor mass imbalance vibration, a bandwidth factor rectification method of the ANF based on displacement stiffness perturbation is designed. To suppress multi-stage-blade modal vibration, a multi-objective constrained optimization method of cascaded improved DTNFs based on linear normalization is designed. Simulation and experimental results validate that the proposed structure improvement of the addition of an AMB controller and multi-parameter optimization of the algorithm can effectively improve not only the phase stability margin and the notch vibration performance of the magnetically suspended rotor (MSR) system but also the efficiency and practicability of the algorithm. At rotational speeds of 12,000 rpm, 15,000 rpm, 18,000 rpm, and 21,000 rpm, the suppression of co-frequency synchronous vibration is approximately maintained between −30.94 dB and −30.56 dB. At the rated speed of 24,000 rpm, compared with other algorithms, the value of the rotor displacement converges from 0.08 mm to 0.03 mm, a reduction of 62.50%. The convergence time decreases from 3.67 s to 2.85 s, a reduction of 22.34%.
Modeling and Aggregation of Electric Water Heaters for the Development of Demand Response Using Grey Box Models
Authors: Gabaldón Antonio , García-Garre Ana , Ruiz-Abellón María Carmen , Guillamón Antonio
Published: July 2024

Residential segments are of the greatest interest from the point of view of Demand-Side Resources and Decarbonization. Main end-uses such as water heaters, heating, and cooling have interesting opportunities: first, they can store energy, and this is relevant for the integration of renewables. Second, they are candidates for efficiency and electrification, increasing their demand share and the flexibility of demand. This paper aims to formulate an elemental Physical-Based Heat Pump Water Heater model that will enable the use of these energy-efficient appliances through aggregation in complex products, considering the advantages for demand and supply sides. Simulation results show that the individual performance is quite accurate and that the proposed model is flexible enough to be used to take more profit from energy markets or to easily respond to fast-occurring events. The model can be easily aggregated and used to obtain baselines, an important point for Demand Response evaluation. Results also demonstrate that demand–supply coordination and balance can be improved using these models to reduce or mitigate the risks and volatility of renewables without inducing a noticeable loss of service. Consequently, the contribution of this responsive load can be modelled through this methodology, making the engagement of more customer segments in Demand Response policies more credible and deploying new segments, such as prosumers.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Activity of Graphene Oxide/Zinc Hydroxide Nanocomposites
Authors: Sanchez Jo Ann , Materon Luis , Parsons Jason G. , Alcoutlabi Mataz
Published: July 2024

Graphene and graphene oxide have shown good antibacterial activity against different bacterial species due to their unique physicochemical properties. Graphene oxide (GO) has been widely used to load metallic and metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) to minimize their surface energy during processing and preparation, hence reducing their aggregation. In this work, GO was effectively synthesized and coated with different concentrations of zinc hydroxide Zn (OH)x using the precipitation method to prepare a GO/Zn (OH)x hybrid composite. The Zn (OH)x NPs and GO/Zn (OH)x nanocomposites were synthesized and characterized using various methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Coating GO with Zn (OH)x NPs resulted in improved aggregation of Zn (OH)x NPs as well as enhanced antibacterial activity of GO against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Additionally, the effect of Zn (OH)x coating on the antibacterial properties of the GO/Zn (OH)x composite was systematically investigated. The synergistic effects of GO and Zn (OH)x NPs resulted in enhanced antibacterial properties of the composites compared to the pristine GO material. In addition, increasing the Zn (OH)x wt. % concentration led to an increased inhibition zone of the GO/Zn (H)x composite against Bacillus megaterium and E. coli bacteria.
Adaptive Feature Refinement and Weighted Similarity for Deep Loop Closure Detection in Appearance Variation
Authors: Peng Zhuolin , Song Rujun , Yang Hang , Li Ying , Lin Jiazhen , Xiao Zhuoling , Yan Bo
Published: July 2024

Loop closure detection (LCD), also known as place recognition, is a crucial component of visual simultaneous localization and mapping (vSLAM) systems, aiding in the reduction of cumulative localization errors on a global scale. However, changes in environmental appearance and differing viewpoints pose significant challenges to the accuracy of the LCD algorithm. Addressing this issue, this paper presents a novel end-to-end framework (MetricNet) for LCDs to enhance detection performance in complex scenes with distinct appearance variations. Focusing on deep features with high distinguishability, an attention-based Channel Weighting Module(CWM) is designed to adaptively detect salient regions of interest. In addition, a patch-by-patch Similarity Measurement Module (SMM) is incorporated to steer the network for handling challenging situations that tend to cause perceptual aliasing. Experiments on three typical datasets have demonstrated MetricNet’s appealing detection performance and generalization ability compared to many state-of-the-art learning-based methods, where the mean average precision is increased by up to 11.92%, 18.10%, and 5.33% respectively. Moreover, the detection results on additional open datasets with apparent viewpoint variations and the odometry dataset for localization problems have also revealed the dependability of MetricNet under different adaptation scenarios.
Model Test Study on the Bearing Mechanism of Inclined Variable Cross-Section Piles Using Transparent Soil
Authors: Ma Qiang , Li Jianyu , Liu Lin , Lu Xuesong
Published: July 2024

In view of the influence of the inclination and variable section on the pile stability and bearing capacity, this paper introduces particle image velocimetry (PIV) technology, and designs a transparent soil visualization model test. The experimental results show that, when the pile has a variable cross-section and inclination angle, the friction resistance on both sides of the pile increases. The vertical-load-carrying capacity of the 2% and 4% inclined piles with a variable cross-section is greater than that of the piles with inclinations greater than 8%. For model piles with the degrees of inclination of 2% and 4%, the variable-section inclined piles with diameters of 17 mm and 15 mm show significantly less settlement than the equal-section inclined piles. For the model pile with an inclination of 8%, the settlement of the inclined piles with a variable cross-section diameter of 17 mm is slightly smaller than that of the equal cross-section inclined piles. The change in variable cross-section and inclination angle has a large effect on the soil displacement around the pile, and the conclusions of this paper can provide guidance for the engineering application of variable cross-section piles.
Enhanced Learning Enriched Features Mechanism Using Deep Convolutional Neural Network for Image Denoising and Super-Resolution
Authors: Waseem Iqra , Habib Muhammad , Rehman Eid , Bibi Ruqia , Yousaf Rehan Mehmood , Aslam Muhammad , Jilani Syeda Fizzah , Younis Muhammad Waqar
Published: July 2024

Image denoising and super-resolution play vital roles in imaging systems, greatly reducing the preprocessing cost of many AI techniques for object detection, segmentation, and tracking. Various advancements have been accomplished in this field, but progress is still needed. In this paper, we have proposed a novel technique named the Enhanced Learning Enriched Features (ELEF) mechanism using a deep convolutional neural network, which makes significant improvements to existing techniques. ELEF consists of two major processes: (1) Denoising, which removes the noise from images; and (2) Super-resolution, which improves the clarity and details of images. Features are learned through deep CNN and not through traditional algorithms so that we can better refine and enhance images. To effectively capture features, the network architecture adopted Dual Attention Units (DUs), which align with the Multi-Scale Residual Block (MSRB) for robust feature extraction, working sidewise with the feature-matching Selective Kernel Extraction (SKF). In addition, resolution mismatching cases are processed in detail to produce high-quality images. The effectiveness of the ELEF model is highlighted by the performance metrics, achieving a Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) of 42.99 and a Structural Similarity Index (SSIM) of 0.9889, which indicates the ability to carry out the desired high-quality image restoration and enhancement.
Stability Results for Some Classes of Cubic Functional Equations
Authors: El-hady El-sayed , Sayyari Yamin , Dehghanian Mehdi , Alruwaily Ymnah
Published: July 2024

Applications involving functional equations (FUEQs) are commonplace. They are essential to various applications, such as fog computing. Ulam’s notion of stability is highly helpful since it provides a range of estimates between exact and approximate solutions. Using Brzdȩk’s fixed point technique (FPT), we establish the stability of the following cubic type functional equations (CFUEQs): Fξ13+ξ233+Fξ13−ξ233=2F(ξ1)+2F(ξ2),2Fξ13+ξ2323=F(ξ1)+F(ξ2) for all ξ1,ξ2∈R.
Fractional Sequential Coupled Systems of Hilfer and Caputo Integro-Differential Equations with Non-Separated Boundary Conditions
Authors: Samadi Ayub , Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Tariboon Jessada
Published: July 2024

In studying boundary value problems and coupled systems of fractional order in (1,2], involving Hilfer fractional derivative operators, a zero initial condition is necessary. The consequence of this fact is that boundary value problems and coupled systems of fractional order with non-zero initial conditions cannot be studied. For example, such boundary value problems and coupled systems of fractional order are those including separated, non-separated, or periodic boundary conditions. In this paper, we propose a method for studying a coupled system of fractional order in (1,2], involving fractional derivative operators of Hilfer and Caputo with non-separated boundary conditions. More precisely, a sequential coupled system of fractional differential equations including Hilfer and Caputo fractional derivative operators and non-separated boundary conditions is studied in the present paper. As explained in the concluding section, the opposite combination of Caputo and Hilfer fractional derivative operators requires zero initial conditions. By using Banach’s fixed point theorem, the uniqueness of the solution is established, while by applying the Leray–Schauder alternative, the existence of solution is obtained. Numerical examples are constructed illustrating the main results.
Psychiatric Disease as a Potential Risk Factor for Dementia: A Narrative Review
Authors: Hedges Dawson W. , Chase Morgan , Farrer Thomas J. , Gale Shawn D.
Published: July 2024

Neurodegenerative disease is a major global health problem with 150 million people predicted to have dementia by 2050. Genetic factors, environmental factors, demographics, and some diseases have been associated with dementia. In addition to associations between diseases such as hypertension and cerebrovascular disease and dementia, emerging findings associate some psychiatric disorders with incident dementia. Because of the high and increasing global prevalence of dementia and the high worldwide prevalence of psychiatric disorders, the primary objective of this narrative review was to evaluate published findings that evaluate the association between bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia and other psychosis syndromes, and personality disorders and personality traits and incident dementia. Here, we highlight findings indicating possible associations between these psychiatric disorders and subsequent dementia and suggest that some psychiatric disorders may be risk factors for incident dementia. Further research, including more large longitudinal studies and additional meta-analyses, however, is needed to better characterize the associations between psychiatric disorders and incident dementia, to identify possible mechanisms for these putative associations, and to identify risk factors within psychiatric disorders that predispose some people with a psychiatric disorder but not others to subsequent dementia. Additional important questions concern how the treatment of psychiatric disorders might affect the risk of incident dementia.
Targeting DNA Methylation Machinery in Pediatric Solid Tumors
Authors: Cristalli Camilla , Scotlandi Katia
Published: July 2024

DNA methylation is a key epigenetic regulatory mechanism that plays a critical role in a variety of cellular processes, including the regulation of cell fate during development, maintenance of cell identity, and genome stability. DNA methylation is tightly regulated by enzymatic reactions and its deregulation plays an important role in the development of cancer. Specific DNA methylation alterations have been found in pediatric solid tumors, providing new insights into the development of these tumors. In addition, DNA methylation profiles have greatly contributed to tune the diagnosis of pediatric solid tumors and to define subgroups of patients with different risks of progression, leading to the reduction in unwanted toxicity and the improvement of treatment efficacy. This review highlights the dysregulated DNA methylome in pediatric solid tumors and how this information provides promising targets for epigenetic therapies, particularly inhibitors of DNMT enzymes (DNMTis). Opportunities and limitations are considered, including the ability of DNMTis to induce viral mimicry and immune signaling by tumors. Besides intrinsic action against cancer cells, DNMTis have the potential to sensitize immune-cold tumors to immunotherapies and may represent a remarkable option to improve the treatment of challenging pediatric solid tumors.
Neck Circumference and Its Relation with Body Fat Percentage in Children 5–10 Years Old
Authors: Romero-Velarde Enrique , Córdova-García Karen G. , Robles-Robles Laura C. , Ventura-Gómez Ingrid J. , Chávez-Palencia Clío
Published: July 2024

Background: Neck circumference (NC) has been proposed as an indicator of upper trunk adiposity and a potential indicator of metabolic risk. The objective was to evaluate NC and its correlation with body fat percentage (BF%) and other indicators of adiposity in children with normal weight, overweight, and obesity. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 112 children 5 to 10 years of age were included in the outpatient clinic from a public hospital. Measures of weight and height to calculate BMI (kg/m2), NC, mid-upper arm circumference, waist circumference, and tricipital skinfold thickness. Body composition measurements were performed using an electrical bioimpedance device (BIA). The relationship between anthropometric variables and BF% obtained by BIA was determined using Spearman correlation tests. Multivariate models were constructed with BF% as the dependent variable and anthropometric parameters as independent. Results: In the entire group, there was a direct correlation between NC and BF% (r = 0.50, p < 0.001), but lost statistical significance in the case of normal weight. The relationship maintained its significance in subjects from the overweight and obesity groups. In multivariate models, BMI exhibited the highest correlation with BF%, followed by waist circumference and mid-upper arm circumference; for NC, the R2 value was 0.30 (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Neck circumference is useful in the screening of population groups with the advantage of not requiring any specialized instruments for its measurement other than a tape measure. BMI and waist circumference were the best indicators of general and central adiposity, respectively.
Use of N-Acetylcysteine in Preterm Neonates with Enteral Feeding Intolerance and Intestinal Obstruction: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: De Rose Domenico Umberto , Landolfo Francesca , Pugnaloni Flaminia , Giliberti Paola , Santisi Alessandra , Columbo Claudia , Martini Ludovica , Ronchetti Maria Paola , Schingo Paolo Maria , Salvatori Guglielmo , Fusaro Fabio , Bagolan Pietro , Dotta Andrea , Capolupo Irma , Conforti Andrea
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: The use of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to relieve meconium obstruction of prematurity in the first days of life has been reported, with NAC reducing the viscosity of luminal contents by cleaving the disulfide bonds of mucoproteins. However, its use in this population should be further explored since it has been associated with hypernatremia and transient increase in transaminases and bilirubin. (2) Methods: In this retrospective study, we included neonates admitted because of enteral feeding intolerance and intestinal obstruction from 2019 to 2021 who received NAC as a rescue therapy before explorative laparotomy. (3) Results: We summarized the clinical presentation of six preterm neonates with enteral feeding intolerance and intestinal obstruction who received NAC as a rescue therapy. Four infants (66.7%) gradually improved without the need for explorative laparotomy, whereas two infants (33.3%) underwent the creation of an ileostomy. No cases of hypernatremia or hepatic derangement associated with NAC therapy were observed. (4) Conclusions: We described the use of NAC treatment by nasogastric tube and/or rectal enemas in preterm infants with enteral feeding intolerance and intestinal obstruction after a multidisciplinary assessment, but the limited sample size did not allow us to obtain definitive conclusions and further research is needed in this field, given the limited evidence about NAC treatment in preterm infants.
Assessing the Efficacy of Acanthoic Acid Isolated from Acanthopanax koreanum Nakai in Male Infertility: An In Vivo and In Silico Approach
Authors: Phong Nguyen Viet , Kim Hyo-Sung , Park Hyun-Jung , Yeom Eunbyul , Yang Seo Young
Published: July 2024

Acanthoic acid, a diterpene isolated from the root bark of Acanthopanax koreanum Nakai, possesses diverse pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, gastrointestinal protection, and cardiovascular protection. This study is the first to investigate the egg-hatching rates of Drosophila melanogaster affected by acanthoic acid. Notably, male flies supplemented with 10 μM acanthoic acid exhibited a strong increase in hatching rates compared with controls under adverse temperature conditions, suggesting a potential protective effect against environmental stressors. Molecular docking simulations revealed the binding affinities and specific interactions between acanthoic acid and proteins related to male infertility, including SHBG, ADAM17, and DNase I, with binding affinity values of −10.2, −6.8, and −5.8 kcal/mol, respectively. Following the docking studies, molecular dynamic simulations were conducted for a duration of 100 ns to examine the stability of these interactions. Additionally, a total binding energy analysis and decomposition analysis offered insights into the underlying energetic components and identified key contributing residues.
Emerging Strategies against Non-Typhoidal Salmonella: From Pathogenesis to Treatment
Authors: Sima Cristina Mihaela , Buzilă Elena Roxana , Trofin Felicia , Păduraru Diana , Luncă Cătălina , Duhaniuc Alexandru , Dorneanu Olivia Simona , Nastase Eduard Vasile
Published: July 2024

Even with the intensive efforts by public health programs to control and prevent it, non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) infection remains an important public health challenge. It is responsible for approximately 150 million illnesses and 60,000 deaths worldwide annually. NTS infection poses significant risks with high rates of morbidity and mortality, leading to potential short- and long-term complications. There is growing concern among health authorities about the increasing incidence of antimicrobial resistance, with multidrug resistance totaling 22.6% in Europe, highlighting an urgent need for new therapeutic approaches. Our review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of NTS infection. We outline the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of NTS infection, as well as the events leading to invasive NTS infection and the subsequent complications associated with it. Given the widespread implications of antimicrobial resistance, our review also presents the global landscape of resistance, including multidrug resistance, and delve into the underlying mechanisms driving this resistance. The rising rates of antibiotic resistance frequently lead to treatment failures, emphasizing the importance of investigating alternative therapeutic options. Therefore, in this review we also explore potential alternative therapies that could offer promising approaches to treating NTS infections.
Could Gas6/TAM Axis Provide Valuable Insights into the Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis?
Authors: Apostolo Daria , D’Onghia Davide , Nerviani Alessandra , Ghirardi Giulia Maria , Sola Daniele , Perazzi Mattia , Tonello Stelvio , Colangelo Donato , Sainaghi Pier Paolo , Bellan Mattia
Published: July 2024

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disorder characterized by microvascular injury, extracellular matrix deposition, autoimmunity, inflammation, and fibrosis. The clinical complexity and high heterogeneity of the disease make the discovery of potential therapeutic targets difficult. However, the recent progress in the comprehension of its pathogenesis is encouraging. Growth Arrest-Specific 6 (Gas6) and Tyro3, Axl, and MerTK (TAM) receptors are involved in multiple biological processes, including modulation of the immune response, phagocytosis, apoptosis, fibrosis, inflammation, cancer development, and autoimmune disorders. In the present manuscript, we review the current evidence regarding SSc pathogenesis and the role of the Gas6/TAM system in several human diseases, suggesting its likely contribution in SSc and highlighting areas where further research is necessary to fully comprehend the role of TAM receptors in this condition. Indeed, understanding the involvement of TAM receptors in SSc, which is currently unknown, could provide valuable insights for novel potential therapeutic targets.
Effects of Sodium–Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors on Transcription Regulation of AgRP and POMC Genes
Authors: Kim Dong Hee , Lee Min Jin , Kang Dasol , Khang Ah Reum , Bae Ji Hyun , Kim Joo Yeon , Kim Su Hyun , Kang Yang Ho , Yi Dongwon
Published: July 2024

Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors regulate plasma glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by inhibiting renal glucose reabsorption. This study investigated the impact of empagliflozin (EMPA), an SGLT2 inhibitor, on hypothalamic energy regulation. To directly investigate the role of SGLT2 inhibitors in the hypothalamus, we administered EMPA through intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injections into the murine ventricles. After dental cementing the i.c.v. cannula onto the skull, the mice were given 5 days to recover before receiving vehicle or EMPA (50 nM/2 μL) injections. In a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity model, we determined the gene expression levels of agouti-related peptide (AgRP) and pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) in the hypothalamus. Additionally, we assessed FoxO1 expression, which regulates AgRP and POMC gene transcription in hypothalamic cell lines. We found that EMPA directly influenced the expression of endogenous mRNA of POMC and AgRP, which are critical for energy homeostasis, and modulated their transcription in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. Additionally, EMPA affected the expression of FoxO1, a key transcriptional regulator of glucose homeostasis, thereby regulating the transcriptional activity of POMC and AgRP. These results indicate that EMPA significantly influences hypothalamic energy homeostasis, highlighting its potential as a regulator in obesity and T2DM management.
Genetic and Non-Genetic Contributions to Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives
Authors: Treccani Mirko , Veschetti Laura , Patuzzo Cristina , Malerba Giovanni , Vaglio Augusto , Martorana Davide
Published: July 2024

In this work, we present a comprehensive overview of the genetic and non-genetic complexity of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA). EGPA is a rare complex systemic disease that occurs in people presenting with severe asthma and high eosinophilia. After briefly introducing EGPA and its relationship with the anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAVs), we delve into the complexity of this disease. At first, the two main biological actors, ANCA and eosinophils, are presented. Biological and clinical phenotypes related to ANCA positivity or negativity are explained, as well as the role of eosinophils and their pathological subtypes, pointing out their intricate relations with EGPA. Then, the genetics of EGPA are described, providing an overview of the research effort to unravel them. Candidate gene studies have investigated biologically relevant candidate genes; the more recent genome-wide association studies and meta-analyses, able to analyze the whole genome, have confirmed previous associations and discovered novel risk loci; in the end, family-based studies have dissected the contribution of rare variants and the heritability of EGPA. Then, we briefly present the environmental contribution to EGPA, reporting seasonal events and pollutants as triggering factors. In the end, the latest omic research is discussed and the most recent epigenomic, transcriptomic and microbiome studies are presented, highlighting the current challenges, open questions and suggesting approaches to unraveling this complex disease.
Microstructure and High-Temperature Mechanical Properties of a Superalloy Joint Deposited with CoCrMo and CoCrW Welding Wires
Authors: Huang Shuai , Wang Tianyuan , Miao Jian , Chen Xing , Zhang Guohui , Chen Bingqing , Zhou Biao
Published: July 2024

The preparation of a single crystal superalloy surface overlay welding coating to improve its high-temperature mechanical properties is of great significance for prolonging the service life of blades. This work selected two types of welding wire alloys, CoCrMo and CoCrW, to prepare coatings on the surface of a single crystal superalloy. A comparative study was conducted on their mechanical properties, such as tension, compression, fatigue, durability, and wear at a high temperature of 900 ℃, aiming to reveal the high-temperature mechanical properties of the two types of welding coatings. Results showed that the average high-temperature tensile strength of the CoCrMo welded specimen was smaller than that of the CoCrW welded specimen; the average high-temperature duration of CoCrMo welded specimens at 150 MPa was lower than the average duration of CoCrW welded specimens; the high-temperature fatigue life of CoCrMo welded specimens at 220 MPa was 7.186 × 105; and the average high-temperature wear rate of CoCrMo sample was 3.64 × 10−6 mm3·N−1·m−1. The CoCrW alloy was more wear resistant than CoCrMo. The hardness of CoCrMo welded joints gradually increased from the substrate to the heat-affected zone and then to the fusion zone, and was much higher in the fusion zone than in the CoCrW alloy.
Bamboo-like MnO2/TiO2 Nanotube Arrays with Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation
Authors: Liang Feng , Xiang Yanxiong , Yu Yunjiang , Zou Changwei
Published: July 2024

In this paper, the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange solution by MnO2/TiO2 nanotube arrays (NTAs) with different structure was studied. Initially, bamboo-like TiO2 NTAs with folded tube walls were synthesized using the anodic oxidation method. Subsequently, MnO2 nanowires/TiO2 NTAs and MnO2 nanoparticles/TiO2 NTAs were prepared via high-temperature and low-temperature hydrothermal methods, respectively. Photocurrent-time transient tests revealed that MnO2 nanoparticles/TiO2 NTAs produced by the low-temperature hydrothermal method exhibited a relatively good photocurrent response. All the deposited MnO2/TiO2 bamboo-like nanotube nanocomposites were tested for photocatalytic decomposition under different pH and light conditions. The results showed that MnO2 could adsorb and degrade methyl orange in the absence of light and acidity, and the degradation degree was proportional to the concentrations of Mn. MnO2 was stimulated to produce photogenic electrons, which migrated to the surface of the TiO2 and extended the life of photogenic charge carriers.
Confirmation of Recurrent Lung Cancer Following Resection Using Liquid Biopsy, a Proof-of-Concept Real-World Study
Authors: Naso Julia R. , Yip Stephen , Hughesman Curtis , Melosky Barb , Dowhy Tanner , McConechy Melissa K. , English John C. , Brasher Penelope M. A. , Choi James , Grant Kyle , Yee John , Lam Stephen , McGuire Anna
Published: July 2024

Appropriate management requires timely and accurate confirmation of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) recurrence in patients who have had curative-intent surgical resection. We assessed the association between circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) identified using amplicon sequencing and evidence of recurrence on CT surveillance. A prospective cohort study of NSCLC patients with early-stage disease undergoing curative-intent resection was conducted. Surveillance was performed post-operatively at pre-defined intervals with both liquid biopsy and chest CT imaging. Amplicon panel next-generation sequencing was performed on DNA and RNA from tumor tissue and on plasma cell-free DNA for tumor-informed ctDNA detection. Resected tumors from 78 NSCLC patients were analyzed. Alterations were detected on the DNA assay for 65 tumors and only on the RNA assay for 4 tumors. Of the 65 patients with alterations detected on the tumor DNA assay, 29 completed post-operative liquid biopsy testing. Four of those 29 patients had evidence of recurrence on imaging, of whom two had biopsy confirmation of recurrence and detectable ctDNA at the 12-month follow-up. Molecular confirmation of NSCLC recurrence can be provided through amplicon sequencing of plasma cell-free DNA in cases with imaging evidence of recurrence. Invasive tissue diagnosis may be avoidable in patients with ctDNA confirmation of recurrence that is suspected based on imaging. Further study of ctDNA assessment technologies in the setting of suspected recurrence is necessary to inform post-operative lung cancer surveillance guidelines.
Kallistatin as a Potential Biomarker in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yurtkal Aslihan , Canday Mujde
Published: July 2024

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder with significant metabolic implications, including an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Kallistatin, a serine proteinase inhibitor with anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, has been identified as a potential biomarker for PCOS due to its role in modulating inflammation and oxidative stress. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at a university hospital’s gynecology clinic. It included 220 women diagnosed with PCOS and 220 healthy controls matched for age and body mass index. Kallistatin levels were quantitatively assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques. Associations between kallistatin levels and clinical manifestations of PCOS, including hyperandrogenism and metabolic profiles, were examined. Results: Kallistatin levels were significantly lower in patients with PCOS (2.65 ± 1.84 ng/mL) compared to controls (6.12 ± 4.17 ng/mL; p < 0.001). A strong negative correlation existed between kallistatin levels and androgen concentrations (r = −0.782, p = 0.035). No significant associations were found between kallistatin levels and insulin resistance or lipid profiles. Conclusions: The findings indicate that reduced kallistatin levels are closely associated with PCOS and could serve as a promising biomarker for its diagnosis. The specific correlation with hyperandrogenism suggests that kallistatin could be particularly effective for identifying PCOS subtypes characterized by elevated androgen levels. This study supports the potential of kallistatin in improving diagnostic protocols for PCOS, facilitating earlier and more accurate detection, which is crucial for effective management and treatment.
Impacts and Correlations on Corneal Biomechanics, Corneal Optical Density and Intraocular Pressure after Cataract Surgery
Authors: Lin Fang-Yang , Ho Ren-Wen , Yu Hun-Ju , Yang I-Hui , Fang Po-Chiung , Kuo Ming-Tse
Published: July 2024

The study aimed to investigate the extended effects and interrelations of corneal biomechanics, corneal optical density (COD), corneal thickness (CT), and intraocular pressure (IOP) following cataract surgery. Sixteen eyes were analyzed prospectively. The Corneal Visualization Scheimpflug Technology (Corvis ST) device assessed corneal biomechanics, while the Pentacam AxL® (Pentacam) measured COD and CT. Postoperative data were collected around six months after surgery, with a subgroup analysis of data at nine months. The Pearson correlation was used to examine the relationship between surgical-induced changes in corneal biomechanics and COD. At six months, significant postoperative differences were observed in various biomechanical indices, including uncorrected IOP (IOPuct) and biomechanics-corrected IOP (bIOP). However, many indices lost statistical significance by the nine-month mark, suggesting the reversibility of postoperative corneal changes. Postoperative COD increased at the anterior layer of the 2−6 mm annulus and incision site. The changes in COD correlated with certain biomechanical indices, including maximal (Max) deformative amplitude (DA) and stiffness parameter (SP). In conclusion, despite significant immediate postoperative changes, corneal biomechanics, COD, and IOP experienced a gradual recovery process following cataract surgery. Clinicians should maintain vigilance for any unusual changes during the short-term observation period to detect abnormalities early.
Study on the Selection of Electric Motor/Engine on the Performance of Hybrid Vehicles
Authors: Chiver Olivian , Sugar Ioan Radu , Neamt Liviu
Published: July 2024

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are perceived as a first step toward the future of sustainable transport. Of course, battery electric vehicles (EVs) are currently ideal for what is wanted in the future of transport. However, the lack of infrastructure for these vehicles makes many potential users choose hybrid vehicles. This paper presents an analysis of the influence of hybrid vehicle engines and electric motors on their performance. Three engines with slightly different power levels and similar characteristics were considered for the configured models. Additionally, two electric motors with very different power levels, but a very close maximum continuous torque were used in our models. One was an induction motor and the other was a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The ADVISOR software was used for vehicle configuration and simulation. Series and parallel hybrid vehicles were considered. The main dynamic performances and the fuel consumption rates of the two driving cycles were compared for the configured models. Three conventional models with the same engines used in HEVs were also simulated for reference. The results highlight that, in the case of HEVs, the choice of a combination engine/electric motor is crucial for obtaining the best compromise between a dynamic performance and a low fuel consumption and, implicitly, a low negative impact on the environment.
Air Flow Monitoring in a Bubble Column Using Ultrasonic Spectrometry
Authors: Franco Ediguer Enrique , Henao Santa Sebastián , Cabrera John Jairo , Laín Santiago
Published: July 2024

This work demonstrates the use of an ultrasonic methodology to monitor bubble density in a water column. A flow regime with droplet size distribution between 0.2 and 2 mm was studied. This range is of particular interest because it frequently appears in industrial flows. Ultrasound is typically used when the size of the bubbles is much larger than the wavelength (low frequency limit). In this study, the radius of the bubbles ranges between 0.6 and 6.8 times the wavelength, where wave propagation becomes a complex phenomenon, making existing analytical methods difficult to apply. Measurements in transmission–reception mode with ultrasonic transducers operating at frequencies of 2.25 and 5.0 MHz were carried out for different superficial velocities. The results showed that a time-averaging scheme is necessary and that wave parameters such as propagation velocity and the slope of the phase spectrum are related to the number of bubbles in the column. The proposed methodology has the potential for application in industrial environments.
A Numerical Approach and Study of the Shock-Wave Structure of Supersonic Jet Flow in a Nozzle
Authors: Kozelkov Andrey , Struchkov Andrey , Kornev Aleksandr , Kurkin Andrey
Published: July 2024

Creating a high-quality aircraft engine is closely connected to the problem of obtaining the jet flow characteristics that appear while an aircraft’s engine is in operation. As natural experiments are costly, studying turbulent jets by numerical simulation appears practical and acute. Biconic nozzle supersonic jet flow is the research subject of this article. A compression and expansion train of waves called barrels were formed in the jet flow at preset conditions. The simulation was performed on an unstructured numerical grid. In order to enhance the calculation accuracy in the shock-wave domain, a hybrid gradient computation scheme and numerical grid static adaptation method were applied in the regions of gas-dynamic values’ significant differential. This approach resulted in a description of nozzle supersonic gas flow structure. It was shown that building local refinement when using a static adaptation numerical grid contributed to improving the accuracy of determining shock waves’ fronts. In addition, this approach facilitated the identification of the Mach disk in the flow when using an unstructured grid, allowing for calculation schemes not higher than a second-order of accuracy.
Geological Assessment of Faults in Digitally Processed Aerial Images within Karst Area
Authors: Podolszki Laszlo , Gizdavec Nikola , Gašparović Mateo , Frangen Tihomir
Published: July 2024

The evolution of map development has been shaped by advancing techniques and technologies. Nevertheless, field and remote mapping with cabinet data analysis remains essential in this process. Geological maps are thematic maps that delineate diverse geological features. These maps undergo updates reflecting changes in the mapped area, technological advancements, and the availability of new data. Herein, a geological assessment example focused on enhancing mapped data using digitally processed historical (legacy) aerial images is presented for a case study in the Dinarides karst area in Croatia. The study area of Bribirske Mostine is covered by the Basic Geological Map of Yugoslavia (BGMY) at a 100,000 scale, which was developed during the 1960s. As the BGMY was developed 60+ years ago, one of its segments is further analyzed and discussed, namely, faults. Moreover, applying modern-day technologies and reinterpretation, its data, scale, presentation, and possible areas of improvement are presented. Georeferenced digital historical geological data (legacy), comprising BGMY, archive field maps, and aerial images from 1959 used in BGMY development, are reviewed. Original faults were digitalized and reinterpreted within the geographic information system with the following conclusions: (i) more accurate data (spatial positioning) on faults can be gained by digitally processing aerial photographs taken 60+ years ago with detailed review and analysis; (ii) simultaneously, new data were acquired (additional fault lines were interpreted); (iii) the map scale can be up-scaled to 1:25,000 for the investigated area of Bribirske Mostine; and (iv) a newly developed map for the Bribirske Mostine study area is presented.
Chinggis Khan, Women, and the West: Literary and Cinematic Remakes of the Secret History of the Mongols
Authors: De Bonis Benedetta
Published: July 2024

The name of Chinggis Khan and the women who contributed to the rise of his empire have long been associated with barbarism in the West. However, the rediscovery of the Secret History of the Mongols, a medieval Mongolian epic chronicle, in 1866, and its numerous translations circulating since the mid-20th century has led Western scholars to a total revaluation of these figures. This paper analyses the representation of Chinggis Khan and his queens in the literary and cinematic adaptations of the Secret History of the Mongols produced in Europe and the United States, specifically in English, French, and Italian. It critically engages with E. W. Said’s works, and with postcolonial and gender studies. The article argues that the portrayal of the Mongols has become increasingly positive in 20th and 21st century remakes of the epic chronicle, highlighting how the West reconsiders its relationship with cultural and gender otherness in an era marked by decolonisation and feminist claims.
Prevention of UVB-Induced Photoaging by an Ethyl Acetate Fraction from Allomyrina dichotoma Larvae and Its Potential Mechanisms in Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Kim Kyong , Kim Chae-Eun , Baek Dong-Jae , Park Eun-Young , Oh Yoon Sin
Published: July 2024

Allomyrina dichotoma larvae (ADL) is an insect type that is used ethnopharmacologically to treat various diseases; however, its use as an antiaging treatment has not been widely studied. Previously, we found that an ethyl acetate (EA) fraction derived from an ADL extract (ADLE) has a high polyphenol content and antioxidant properties. In this study, we identified the underlying molecular mechanism for the protective effect of the EA fraction against UVB-induced photodamage in vitro and ex vivo. UVB treatment increased intracellular reactive oxygen species levels and DNA damage; the latter of which was significantly decreased following cotreatment with the EA fraction. Biological markers of aging, such as p16INK4a, p21WAF1, and senescence-associated β-gal levels, were induced by UVB treatment but significantly suppressed following EA-fraction treatment. UVB-induced upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and downregulation of COL1A1 were also reversed by EA-fraction treatment in both cells and a 3D skin model, which resulted in increased keratin and collagen deposition. Moreover, EA-fraction treatment inhibited the phosphorylation of MAPKs (p38, ERK, and JNK) and nuclear factor (NF-)-kB and decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines in UVB-treated cells. The results indicate that an EA fraction from ADLE ameliorates UVB-induced degradation of COL1A1 by inhibiting MMP expression and inactivating the MAPK/NF-κB p65/AP-1 signaling pathway involved in this process.