bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Attitudes and Practices Regarding COVID-19 among General Practitioners from Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Osmani Zudi , Bajrektarevic Kehic Almina , Miskulin Ivan , Dumic Lea , Pavlovic Nika , Kovacevic Jelena , Lanc Curdinjakovic Vedrana , Dumic Juraj , Vukoja Ivan , Miskulin Maja
Published: April 2023

Attitudes toward COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) prevention and control may have influenced general practitioners’ (GPs’) work during the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study aimed to investigate the attitudes and practices of GPs from Croatia and Bosna and Herzegovina regarding COVID-19 prevention and control as well as the factors which may have influenced them. A cross-sectional study using a self-administered, anonymous questionnaire was conducted between February and May of 2022 on 200 Croatian and Bosnian GPs. The study revealed that the attitudes and practices of the surveyed GPs regarding COVID-19 prevention and control were satisfactory. The Croatian GPs reported a larger number of positive attitudes toward COVID-19 prevention and control (p = 0.014), while no significant differences in practices were established. Among the Croatian GPs, more positive attitudes toward COVID-19 prevention and control were reported by participants who had finished a formal education on the prevention of infectious diseases and occupational safety (p = 0.018), while among the Bosnian GPs, more positive attitudes were reported by older GPs (p = 0.007), males (p = 0.026), GPs with a longer length of service (p = 0.005), GPs who had finished a formal education on the prevention of infectious diseases and occupational safety (p < 0.001), GPs who had finished a formal education on adequate hand hygiene (p < 0.001), and GPs who had finished a formal education on COVID-19 prevention for GPs (p = 0.001). Considering GPs’ practices regarding COVID-19 prevention and control, among the Croatian GPs, more positive practices were reported by older GPs (p = 0.008), females (p = 0.002), GPs who had a partner (p = 0.021), GPs who were specialists in family medicine (p = 0.014), GPs with a longer length of service (p = 0.007), and GPs who had finished a formal education on the prevention of infectious diseases and occupational safety (p = 0.046), while among the Bosnian GPs, no significant correlations were determined. The general practitioners’ sociodemographic and employment characteristics strongly influenced their attitudes and practices regarding the prevention and control of COVID-19. The cultural differences between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the organizational specificities of their healthcare systems, probably modified the observed differences in the individual patterns of associations between the outcome and explanatory variables in the surveyed neighboring countries.
Mindfulness and Subjective Well-Being of Indian University Students: Role of Resilience during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Bharti Teena , Mishra Nidhi , Ojha Satish Chandra
Published: April 2023

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is presently a global health issue that negatively affects the mental health and well-being of students globally. The latest investigations have recognized the role of mindfulness in individual subjective well-being. This study explores the mediating role of resilience in the overall relationship between mindfulness and subjective well-being among Indian university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. The data was collected between 10 August 2020 to 24 October 2020 via a self-administered questionnaire from 589 university students in India. Results revealed that resilience has a partial mediating role between mindfulness and subjective well-being. The results substantiate that resilience has an important role in mindfulness, exercising its advantageous effects on mental health of the students in higher education institutions. This research adds to the knowledge base of mindfulness and subjective well-being of university students, especially in contingent times. Lastly, the study contributes to the existing mindfulness theory.
Prediction of Shear Strength for Steel-Fiber High-Strength Concrete Corbels with the Softened Strut-and-Tie Model
Authors: Li Shu-Shan , Zheng Jin-Yan , Zhang Feng-Jian , Li Hong-Mei , Jia Ming-Xiao , Liu Zu-Jun , Chen Ai-Jiu , Xie Wei
Published: April 2023

On the basis of the test results of nine steel-fiber high-strength concrete corbel specimens subjected to a vertical load, the influence of the steel fiber content on the shear performance of corbels was analyzed. The softened strut-and-tie model (SSTM) was used to analyze the shear strength of steel-fiber high-strength concrete corbels, taking into consideration the shear contribution of steel fibers. A calculation model for the shear strength of steel-fiber high-strength concrete corbels is proposed, and a database for 26 steel-fiber high-strength concrete corbels was created by using the model. The results obtained according to the codes ACI318-19, EC2, CSA A23.3-19 and the softened strut-and-tie model were compared with the experimental values to verify the rationality of the model. The findings showed that steel fiber can effectively limit the crack width and improve the crack morphology. The overall average value of the ratio between the experimental and the predicted strengths of the model was 1.082, and the variance was 0.004. The values predicted with the proposed calculation model were closer to the experimental values than those calculated according to the codes. This study provides a definite mechanical model that can reveal the shear mechanism of steel-fiber high-strength concrete. It can reasonably predict the shear strength of steel-fiber high-strength concrete corbels.
An Exploratory Study on the Impact of Cross-Organizational Control and Knowledge Sharing on Project Performance
Authors: Shang Kejian , Cao Yunyun , Wu Jie
Published: April 2023

In order to study how cross-organizational control and knowledge sharing affect project performance during a whole process engineering consulting project, this paper constructs a theoretical model of cross-organizational control, knowledge sharing, and project performance and uses a structural equation model (SEM) to conduct an empirical analysis of questionnaire data. The results showed that trust can promote two types of project performance, while contractual control stimulates basic performance but does not significantly impact value-added project performance. The mediation results showed that tacit knowledge plays an intermediary role between trust and two types of project performance, while explicit knowledge plays an intermediary role between contractual control and basic project performance. The results of this paper will further enrich the application of knowledge sharing in the field of project management, open the “black box” of project performance in whole process engineering consulting, and provide owners with guidance to achieve value-added project performance.
Compressed Stabilized Earth Block Incorporating Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator Bottom Ash as a Partial Replacement for Fine Aggregates
Authors: Thennarasan Latha Abinaya , Murugesan Balasubramanian , Thomas Blessen Skariah
Published: April 2023

This research explores the potential of using municipal solid waste incinerator bottom ash (MSWIBA) as a partial replacement for fine aggregate and ordinary Portland cement (OPC) as a stabilizer in the production of compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEBs). The study investigates the effect of varying levels of cement content (ranging from 0% to 10%) and MSWIBA content (ranging from 0% to 25%) on the strength and durability of CSEBs. The strength characteristics of CSEBs were evaluated through tests such as wet and dry compressive strength, flexural strength, water absorption, and stress–strain behavior, while durability was tested through wetting–drying cyclic tests. The results indicated that CSEB blocks made with 20% MSWIBA content and 10% cement were able to fulfill strength criteria. Additionally, using these blocks could result in cost savings of 8% during construction when compared to using fired clay bricks (FCB). Furthermore, varying the cement content while maintaining a constant proportion of MSWIBA showed a significant change in the stress–strain behavior and a cost analysis performed for CSEBs stabilized with the optimal quantity of MSWIBA-OPC combination showed that they can be a viable alternative to conventional earth blocks, providing an eco-friendly, sustainable, and cost-effective solution for construction initiatives.
Continuous Monitoring of Elastic Modulus of Mortars Using a Single-Board Computer and Cost-Effective Components
Authors: Russo Thomas , Ribeiro Renan Rocha , Araghi Amir , Lameiras Rodrigo de Melo , Granja José , Azenha Miguel
Published: April 2023

The Elastic Modulus Measurement through Ambient Response Method (EMM-ARM) is designed to continuously monitor the elastic modulus of hardening construction materials such as concrete, cement paste, mortars, stabilized soils, and epoxy resin. In practice, a composite beam, made of the tested material in its mould, is induced to vibration by means of environmental or controlled excitation, and its resonant frequency is identified. The material’s elastic modulus can then be calculated based on the vibration equation of structural systems. The traditional system to conduct EMM-ARM experiments is based on specialized equipment and on proprietary licensed software, which results in a considerable cost, as well as limited options for customization. The paper hereby presented proposes a delve into the development and validation of a cost-effective and open-source system that is able to conduct EMM-ARM experiments. By using a Raspberry Pi for the computing device and cost-effective electronic components, the cost of the system was one-twentieth of the traditional one, without compromising the measurement reliability. The composite beam’s excitation is generated, while the vibration response is recorded by the proposed system simultaneously, since the Raspberry Pi supports multiprocessing programming techniques. The flexibility earned by the exclusive use of open-source and cost-effective resources creates countless application possibilities for the proposed system.
Uncertainty Analysis of Creep Behavior of Compacted Loess and a Non-Deterministic Predication Method for Post-Construction Settlement of a High-Fill Embankment
Authors: Yuan Yi-Li , Hu Chang-Ming , Mei Yuan , Wang Fang-Fang , Wang Ge
Published: April 2023

Property of geotechnical materials has inherent uncertainty due to the complex formation process and inevitable test error. However, existing long-term deformation prediction methods for geotechnical structure such as a filling embankment are deterministic, which ignores the uncertainty of soil property. In this study, the uncertainty of creep behavior of compacted loess was investigated through repetitive creep tests and statistical analysis. Five different loading levels and two loading modes were considered in the tests. The creep test was repeated 45 times for each condition. Through a statistical analysis for the test results, a modified Merchant creep model was established to improve the accuracy of long-term deformation prediction. An empirical transformation equation between staged loading and separated loading mode of the creep test results was also introduced to improve applicability of the method. On this basis, a non-deterministic predication method for post-construction settlement of loess fill embankment was proposed. Furthermore, the proposed method was applied to the prediction of the post-construction of a 61.5 m loess filling embankment. The measured on-site post-construction settlement value falls within the 95% confidence interval of the predicted range which proves the efficiency and practicability of the proposed non-deterministic predication method. Compared to deterministic methods, the proposed method can describe the predicted deformation in a probabilistic way in the form of contour plot. The proposed method provides a basic approach for the probabilistic design and reliability assessment of filling engineering.
Mechanical Properties and Seismic Loss Assessment of Improved Isolation Bearing with Variable Stiffness
Authors: Huang Jie , Wang Peng , Shi Qingxuan , Rong Chong , Wang Bin
Published: April 2023

For improving the seismic isolation effect, traditional rubber isolation bearing provides a smaller horizontal stiffness. However, it is unfavorable for the displacement control of the seismic isolation layer under rare earthquakes. In this paper, an improved lead-core rubber isolation bearing is proposed. The improved isolation bearing can provide a small horizontal stiffness to enhance the seismic isolation effect under small earthquakes. Under large earthquakes, it can provide a large horizontal stiffness to prevent over-limit failure due to excessive displacement. The mechanical properties of the improved isolation bearing were investigated using the finite element method (FEM), and the restoring force model of the improved isolation bearing was established. Based on the FEMA P-58 theory, the earthquake loss assessment in terms of repair cost and casualty indexes was carried out for normal frame structures, normal isolation structures, and improved isolation structures. The results show that the improved isolation bearing maintains a smaller horizontal stiffness before the displacement is limited, giving full play to the isolation performance. After that, the horizontal stiffness of the bearing is enhanced, which can effectively control the displacement of the seismic isolation layer. The lead-core can give full play to the energy dissipation characteristics. Under the four performance levels, the improved isolation structure has the highest safety reserve and the best collapse resistance. The use of improved isolation bearings can reduce the repair cost of the structure and casualties.
On the Use of Waste Materials for Thermal Improvement of 3D-Printed Block—An Experimental Comparison
Authors: de Rubeis Tullio , Ciccozzi Annamaria , Pasqualoni Giovanni , Paoletti Domenica , Ambrosini Dario
Published: April 2023

Over the years, the building envelope has evolved from a protective barrier element to a complex filter system capable of optimizing the interactions between the external and internal environments. An efficient envelope reacts flexibly to variable external conditions, minimizing heat losses in the winter season. Therefore, insulating materials play a fundamental role in building’s thermal performance. In this scenario, Additive Manufacturing represents an emerging and promising solution for the construction sector. Three-dimensional printing allows the creation of custom geometries, reduces material waste, and automates the construction process. This work aims to compare the thermal performance of a PLA (polylactic acid) 3D-printed block with an internal honeycomb structure whose air cavities are filled with natural and recyclable waste-insulating materials. The selected air cavity filling materials are (i) wood sawdust, (ii) sheep’s wool, and (iii) hemp. The thermal behavior of the block with the different filling materials was experimentally tested via Heat Flow Meter (HFM) method in a controlled environment (Hot Box). The results showed that the introduction of waste material significantly improved the thermal performance of the 3D-printed block compared to the case of air cavities. A thermal transmittance (U-value) reduction of up to 57% was obtained. Moreover, the sheep’s wool showed the best performance, with a U-value equal to 0.53 ± 0.02 W/m2K, i.e., 18.5% less than the wood sawdust and 19.7% less than hemp.
Lightweight Copper–Carbon Nanotube Core–Shell Composite Fiber for Power Cable Application
Authors: Joseph Kavitha Mulackampilly , Brittingham Kyle , Kondapalli Vamsi Krishna Reddy , Khosravifar Mahnoosh , Raut Ayush Arun , Karsten Brett David , Kasparian Hunter J. , Phan Nhat , Kamath Arun , Almansour Amjad S. , Lizcano Maricela , Santiago Diana , Mast David , Shanov Vesselin
Published: April 2023

The substitution of traditional copper power transmission cables with lightweight copper–carbon nanotube (Cu–CNT) composite fibers is critical for reducing the weight, fuel consumption, and CO2 emissions of automobiles and aircrafts. Such a replacement will also allow for lowering the transmission power loss in copper cables resulting in a decrease in coal and gas consumption, and ultimately diminishing the carbon footprint. In this work, we created a lightweight Cu–CNT composite fiber through a multistep scalable process, including spinning, densification, functionalization, and double-layer copper deposition. The characterization and testing of the fabricated fiber included surface morphology, electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, crystallinity, and ampacity (current density). The electrical conductivity of the resultant composite fiber was measured to be 0.5 × 106 S/m with an ampacity of 0.18 × 105 A/cm2. The copper-coated CNT fibers were 16 times lighter and 2.7 times stronger than copper wire, as they revealed a gravimetric density of 0.4 g/cm3 and a mechanical strength of 0.68 GPa, suggesting a great potential in future applications as lightweight power transmission cables.
Perspective of Use of Pd/rGO in a Direct Urea Microfluidic Fuel Cell
Authors: Gurrola M. P. , Cruz J. C. , Espinosa-Lagunes F. I. , Martínez-Lázaro A. , Ledesma-García J. , Arriaga L. G. , Escalona-Villalpando R. A.
Published: April 2023

The urine/urea oxidation reaction through catalysts with a higher performance in direct urea microfluidic fuel cells (DUµFC) is a promising method for power generation due to the large amount of human and animal urine containing 2–2.5 wt% urea. This paper presents a study that used urea as fuel in a DUµFC in the presence of palladium supported by reduced graphene oxide (rGO) for power generation. Some parameters, such as urea, KOH and H2SO4 concentration and flux rate, among others, are optimized in order to carry out the evaluation of urine samples as fuel in an air-breathing microfluidic fuel cell. The results show that the Pd/rGo catalyst mixed with Nafion® in the anodic compartment is dispersed and attached to the paper fibers, generating electrical contact and giving rise to the reactions of interest. In addition, XRD analysis confirmed the successful deposition of Pd and rGo on the substrate. These electrochemical results are promising, since, despite the decrease in the general performance of the DUµFC under ideal conditions with respect to normal cells, the generation of energy from urine was demonstrated.
g-C3N4 for Photocatalytic Degradation of Parabens: Precursors Influence, the Radiation Source and Simultaneous Ozonation Evaluation
Authors: Fernandes Eryk , Mazierski Paweł , Klimczuk Tomasz , Zaleska-Medynska Adriana , Martins Rui C. , Gomes João
Published: April 2023

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is a promising catalyst for contaminants of emerging concern removal applications, especially as a visible-light-driven material. In this study, g-C3N4 catalysts were effectively synthesized through a simple thermal polymerization method, using melamine, urea, and thiourea as precursors to elucidate the influence of these compounds on the final product’s photocatalytic performance. The degradation of a mixture of three parabens was investigated under different types of radiation: two artificial, ultraviolet-A (UVA) and visible LED, and natural sunlight. The urea-based catalyst (UCN) presented better results under all radiation sources, followed by thiourea, and finally, melamine. Among the artificial light sources, the degradation of parabens under UVA was considerably higher than visible—up to 51% and 21%, respectively—using UCN; however, the broader spectrum of natural sunlight was able to achieve the highest removals, up to 92%, using UCN. Comparing artificial radiation sources, UVA lamps presented 45% lower energy consumption and associated costs. Photocatalytic ozonation was tested using UCN and MCN, with UCN once more possessing superior performance and a synergetic effect between photocatalysis and ozonation, with complete removal under 12 min. The use of g-C3N4 was then successfully tested in initial screening and found to be an efficient alternative in more low-cost and feasible solar photocatalysis water treatment.
Metabolic Biodegradation Pathway of Fluoranthene by Indigenous Trichoderma lixii and Talaromyces pinophilus spp.
Authors: Egbewale Samson O. , Kumar Ajit , Mokoena Mduduzi P. , Olaniran Ademola O.
Published: April 2023

Two indigenous ascomycetes fungi, Trichoderma lixii strain FLU1 (TlFLU1) and Talaromyces pinophilus strain FLU12 (TpFLU12), were isolated from benzo(b)fluoranthene-enriched activated sludge and tested for bio-catalytically degrade fluoranthene as a sole carbon source. TlFLU1 and TpFLU12 degraded 98 and 99% of 400 mg/L of fluoranthene after 16 and 12 d incubation period, respectively. Degradation correlated with the upregulation of expression of ligninolytic enzymes. The GC-MS and FTIR analysis of the degradation products suggest that the degradation is initiated at the C1-C2 position of the compound ring via oxygenation and ring cleavage to form 9-oxo-9H-fluorene-1-carboxylic acid before undergoing ring cleavage to yield fluorenone, which then proceeds through the ß-Ketoadipate pathway via benzene-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid. The degradation rate is better fitted in the first-order and zero-order kinetic model for TlFLU1 and TpFLU12, respectively. The metabolites from the TlFLU1 degradation media are shown to be toxic in Vibryo parahaemolyticus after 6 h of exposure with effective concentration (EC50) and toxicity unit (TU) values of 14.25 mg/L and 7.018%, respectively, while also being observed as non-toxic from TpFLU12 degradation media with an EC50 and TU values of 197.1 mg/L and 0.507%, respectively. Results from this study show efficient metabolism of fluoranthene into an innocuous state by TlFLU1 and TpFLU12.
Mixed-Phase Fe2O3 Derived from Natural Hematite Ores/C3N4 Z-Scheme Photocatalyst for Ofloxacin Removal
Authors: Shenoy Sulakshana , Farahat Mohsen M. , Chuaicham Chitiphon , Sekar Karthikeyan , Ramasamy Boopathy , Sasaki Keiko
Published: April 2023

Abatement of pharmaceutical pollutants from aquatic systems is crucial but remains a challenge. Semiconductor photocatalysis has emerged as an eco-friendly technique that utilizes renewable solar energy to address environmental issues. Naturally occurring and earth abundant hematite (Fe2O3) ores can be incorporated as a suitable component of a photocatalyst. Herein, Brazilian hematite was partially phase transformed into heterophase (consisting of α/γ-Fe2O3) by a simple single-stage heat treatment procedure. The method of synthesis was simple and economical, requiring neither solvents nor concentrated acids. The existence of α/γ-phases in the produced Fe2O3 (FO) was confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. After the phase transformation process, the local structure surrounding the Fe atoms was varied as evidenced from X-ray absorption spectroscopy. Given its low toxicity, narrow bandgap, and chemical stability, FO was further combined with g-C3N4 (CN) to form composites. The optical properties of the synthesized CNFO composites confirmed that the visible light harvesting ability of CN was enhanced after combining with FO. The CN sheets were grown uniformly over the surface of FO as evidenced from scanning electron microscopy. The prepared composites could degrade an aqueous solution of ofloxacin (OFX, 10 ppm) under visible light with remarkable efficacy. The performance of CNFO-5% was 4.8 times higher when compared to pure CN. The initial rate constant value for the photocatalytic degradation of OFX by CNFO-5% was 0.1271 min−1. The catalyst was stable even after five repeated cycles of photodegradation. The photoluminescence spectra and electrochemical measurements confirmed the efficient separation and transfer of the photogenerated charges across their interface. The investigations on different scavengers demonstrated that superoxide anion radicals and holes played a significant role in the degradation of OFX. The mechanism for the charge transfer was proposed to be a Z-scheme heterojunction. These results point to the potential of using inexpensive, abundant, and recyclable natural hematite ores as state-of-the-art photocatalysts for the elimination of pharmaceuticals in wastewater.
Solar Light-Induced Photocatalytic Response of BiOCl/PANI Composite towards the Degradation of Tetracycline
Authors: Goyal Janis , Sharma Surbhi , Basu Soumen
Published: April 2023

Photocatalytic degradation has gained much attention as a means of reducing water contamination as, with increasing industrialization and population growth, water pollution is a menace to both individuals and the environment. In this respect, metal oxide photocatalysts demonstrate effectiveness due to their excellent properties, such as their narrow band gap and low recombination rate of charge carriers. Here, various weight ratios of BiOCl/PANI composites have been synthesized by the simple wet chemical method. The crystallinity, oxidation state and surface chemical composition of the elements were analyzed by XRD and XPS techniques. FESEM and HRTEM images verified the formation of BiOCl nanosheets, covered well with PANI nanofibers, while EDX spectra revealed the uniform distribution of elements. The high surface area of the photocatalyst with a mesoporous nature was revealed by BET analysis. Low recombination rate and narrow band gap, suitable for photocatalysis, were confirmed by PL and UV–DRS spectroscopy. The photocatalytic performance of the photocatalyst was tested for the photodegradation of rhodamine-B (Rh-B) and tetracycline (TC) under natural sunlight irradiation. Kinetic results demonstrated that the 15% BiOCl/PANI hybrid exhibits excellent photocatalytic activity, degrading 97% of Rh-B and 77% of TC with a high rate constant (for Rh-B 0.0236 min−1 and for TC 0.0106 min−1). Trapping experiments highlighted that O2•− radicals play a vital role in the photodegradation mechanism. The reusability studies confirmed the good stability of the catalyst for the degradation of Rh-B (~85%) after five sequential runs. Considering its superior properties and ease of preparation, the synthesized photocatalyst can be used for ecological remediation.
Understanding the Relationship of the Human Bacteriome with COVID-19 Severity and Recovery
Authors: Zafar Hassan , Saier Milton H.
Published: April 2023

The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) first emerged in 2019 in China and has resulted in millions of human morbidities and mortalities across the globe. Evidence has been provided that this novel virus originated in animals, mutated, and made the cross-species jump to humans. At the time of this communication, the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may be on its way to an endemic form; however, the threat of the virus is more for susceptible (older and immunocompromised) people. The human body has millions of bacterial cells that influence health and disease. As a consequence, the bacteriomes in the human body substantially influence human health and disease. The bacteriomes in the body and the immune system seem to be in constant association during bacterial and viral infections. In this review, we identify various bacterial spp. In major bacteriomes (oral, nasal, lung, and gut) of the body in healthy humans and compare them with dysbiotic bacteriomes of COVID-19 patients. We try to identify key bacterial spp. That have a positive effect on the functionality of the immune system and human health. These select bacterial spp. Could be used as potential probiotics to counter or prevent COVID-19 infections. In addition, we try to identify key metabolites produced by probiotic bacterial spp. That could have potential anti-viral effects against SARS-CoV-2. These metabolites could be subject to future therapeutic trials to determine their anti-viral efficacies.
Macrophage Involvement in Aging-Associated Skeletal Muscle Regeneration
Authors: Cui Chang-Yi , Ferrucci Luigi , Gorospe Myriam
Published: April 2023

The skeletal muscle is a dynamic organ composed of contractile muscle fibers, connective tissues, blood vessels and nerve endings. Its main function is to provide motility to the body, but it is also deeply involved in systemic metabolism and thermoregulation. The skeletal muscle frequently encounters microinjury or trauma, which is primarily repaired by the coordinated actions of muscle stem cells (satellite cells, SCs), fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs), and multiple immune cells, particularly macrophages. During aging, however, the capacity of skeletal muscle to repair and regenerate declines, likely contributing to sarcopenia, an age-related condition defined as loss of muscle mass and function. Recent studies have shown that resident macrophages in skeletal muscle are highly heterogeneous, and their phenotypes shift during aging, which may exacerbate skeletal muscle deterioration and inefficient regeneration. In this review, we highlight recent insight into the heterogeneity and functional roles of macrophages in skeletal muscle regeneration, particularly as it declines with aging.
Glycation Leads to Increased Invasion of Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Schildhauer Paola , Selke Philipp , Scheller Christian , Strauss Christian , Horstkorte Rüdiger , Leisz Sandra , Scheer Maximilian
Published: April 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive and invasive brain tumor with a poor prognosis despite extensive treatment. The switch to aerobic glycolysis, known as the Warburg effect, in cancer cells leads to an increased production of methylglyoxal (MGO), a potent glycation agent with pro-tumorigenic characteristics. MGO non-enzymatically reacts with proteins, DNA, and lipids, leading to alterations in the signaling pathways, genomic instability, and cellular dysfunction. In this study, we investigated the impact of MGO on the LN229 and U251 (WHO grade IV, GBM) cell lines and the U343 (WHO grade III) glioma cell line, along with primary human astrocytes (hA). The results showed that increasing concentrations of MGO led to glycation, the accumulation of advanced glycation end-products, and decreasing cell viability in all cell lines. The invasiveness of the GBM cell lines increased under the influence of physiological MGO concentrations (0.3 mmol/L), resulting in a more aggressive phenotype, whereas glycation decreased the invasion potential of hA. In addition, glycation had differential effects on the ECM components that are involved in the invasion progress, upregulating TGFβ, brevican, and tenascin C in the GBM cell lines LN229 and U251. These findings highlight the importance of further studies on the prevention of glycation through MGO scavengers or glyoxalase 1 activators as a potential therapeutic strategy against glioma and GBM.
Basal Ganglia Compensatory White Matter Changes on DTI in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Wurst Zdeněk , Birčák Kuchtová Barbora , Křemen Jan , Lahutsina Anastasiya , Ibrahim Ibrahim , Tintěra Jaroslav , Bartoš Aleš , Brabec Marek , Rai Tanya , Zach Petr , Musil Vladimír , Olympiou Nicoletta , Mrzílková Jana
Published: April 2023

The volume reduction of the gray matter structures in patients with Alzheimer’s disease is often accompanied by an asymmetric increase in the number of white matter fibers located close to these structures. The present study aims to investigate the white matter structure changes in the motor basal ganglia in Alzheimer’s disease patients compared to healthy controls using diffusion tensor imaging. The amounts of tracts, tract length, tract volume, quantitative anisotropy, and general fractional anisotropy were measured in ten patients with Alzheimer’s disease and ten healthy controls. A significant decrease in the number of tracts and general fractional anisotropy was found in patients with Alzheimer’s disease compared to controls in the right caudate nucleus, while an increase was found in the left and the right putamen. Further, a significant decrease in the structural volume of the left and the right putamen was observed. An increase in the white matter diffusion tensor imaging parameters in patients with Alzheimer’s disease was observed only in the putamen bilaterally. The right caudate showed a decrease in both the diffusion tensor imaging parameters and the volume in Alzheimer’s disease patients. The right pallidum showed an increase in the diffusion tensor imaging parameters but a decrease in volume in Alzheimer’s disease patients.
Effects of Different Light Wavelengths on Fruit Quality and Gene Expression of Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosm)
Authors: Wei Zhiwen , Yang Haiyan , Shi Jie , Duan Yongkang , Wu Wenlong , Lyu Lianfei , Li Weilin
Published: April 2023

Different light wavelengths display diverse effects on fruit quality formation and anthocyanin biosynthesis. Blueberry is a kind of fruit rich in anthocyanin with important economic and nutritional values. This study explored the effects of different light wavelengths (white (W), red (R), blue (B) and yellow (Y)) on fruit quality and gene expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis in blueberry. We found that the B and W treatments attained the maximum values of fruit width, fruit height and fruit weight in blueberry fruits. The R treatment attained the maximum activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD), and the Y treatment displayed the maximum contents of ascorbic acid (AsA), glutathione (GSH) and total phenol in fruits, thus improving blueberry-fruit antioxidant capacity. Interestingly, there were differences in the solidity–acid ratio of fruit under different light-wavelength treatments. Moreover, blue light could significantly improve the expression levels of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes and anthocyanin content in fruits. Correlation and principal component analysis showed that total acid content and antioxidant enzymes were significantly negatively correlated with anthocyanin content in blueberry fruits. These results provide new insights for the application of light wavelength to improve blueberry fruit quality and anthocyanin content.
Enantioanalysis of Leucine in Whole Blood Samples Using Enantioselective, Stochastic Sensors
Authors: Stefan-van Staden Raluca-Ioana , Musat Oana-Raluca
Published: April 2023

Enantioanalysis of amino acids became a key factor in the metabolomics of cancer. As a screening method, it can provide information about the state of health of patients. The main purpose of the study is to develop a highly reliable enantioanalysis method for the determination of D-, and L-leucine in biological samples in order to establish their role as biomarkers in the diagnosis of breast cancer. Two enantioselective stochastic sensors based on N-methyl-fullero-pyrrolidine in graphite and graphene nanopowder pastes were designed, characterized, and validated for the enantioanalysis of leucine in whole blood. Different signatures were recorded for the biomarkers when the stochastic sensors were used, proving their enantioselectivity. In addition, limits for detection on the order of ag L−1 were recorded for each of the enantiomers of leucine when the proposed enantioselective stochastic sensors were used. The wide linear concentration ranges facilitated the assay of the L-leucine in healthy volunteers, and also in patients confirmed with breast cancer. Recoveries of one enantiomer in the presence of the other enantiomer in whole blood samples, higher than 96.50%, proved that the enantioanalysis of enantiomers can be performed reliably from whole blood samples.
The Influence of Subjective Perceptions and the Efficacy of Objective Evaluation in Soccer School Players’ Classification: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Abate Daga Federico , Veglio Franco , Cherasco Gian Maria , Agostino Samuel
Published: April 2023

Objectives: The first objective was to investigate the influence of subjective perceptions and the efficacy of objective evaluation regarding the classification of soccer school players by their level of performance. The second objective was to advise on accurate collocation according to objective assessment of players’ performance. Methods: An objective evaluation of the players’ motor performance abilities and coaches’ subjective perceptions of the players’ levels of performance was conducted with 34 young football players (U11) from Torino FC soccer school. The players were allocated to three groups based on their perceived performance level at the start of the season. The players were evaluated using a field test battery, and team coaches provided subjective ratings of the players’ abilities. Results: MANOVA showed significant differences between the playing levels (F = 2.185, p < 0.05; partial η2 = 0.34) in the 10 × 5 shuttle run, 20 m sprint test (objective evaluations), heading, understanding of the game, positioning on the field, speed and agility (subjective perception) (F = 1.951, p < 0.05; partial η2 = 0.43). A discriminant analysis of the field test scores revealed that 76.5% of players were correctly categorised in one of the three performance-level groups. However, the first group (the best players) had the lowest predictive accuracy rate (58.3%). By comparison, the second group (the average players) had a much higher predictive accuracy rate (83.3%), and the third (the weakest players) had the highest (90.0%). Conclusions: These findings support the role of objective performance evaluation in categorising players of different skill in soccer schools.
Rehabilitation in Patients Diagnosed with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita: A Systematic Review
Authors: García Aguilar Catalina E. , García-Muñoz Cristina , Carmona-Barrientos Ines , Vinolo-Gil Maria Jesus , Martin-Vega Francisco Javier , Gonzalez-Medina Gloria
Published: April 2023

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita is a condition characterised by contractures and deformity in two or more body areas. Physiotherapy may be an appropriate treatment. The aim was to systematically review the evidence for rehabilitation in arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. A systematic review was performed following the PRISMA 2020 criteria. The search was conducted in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scielo, Scopus, Web of Science, ENFISPO, JSTOR, Google Scholar, ProQuest, Cochrane Library and PEDro from inception until October 2022. To assess the methodological quality, we used the different aspects of the critical appraisal tool JBI. We included 14 studies (6 case reports, 5 case series, 2 cross-sectional and 1 qualitative study). Sample sizes ranged from 1 to 50 participants, with an age range between 11 days and 35 years. Most studies employed multicomponent therapy, mainly kinesitherapy, massage therapy, use of physical agents and stretching, some combined it with orthopaedic therapy, or it was complementary to surgical treatment. The key to improving the clinical picture was early and individualised care, tailored to the characteristics of the patients. Regarding methodological quality, the main conflicts encountered were in the reporting of participant characteristics and experimental interventions. Rehabilitation provides satisfactory results in the treatment of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. More scientific production and randomised clinical trials are needed.
Peatland Fire Weather Conditions in Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Hayasaka Hiroshi
Published: April 2023

This study was conducted to identify the fire weather conditions needed to assess future peatland fires under climate change. Recent peatland fires in Indonesia have resulted in globally significant environmental impacts. Nevertheless, fire weather in the peatlands has not been clarified. The objective of this study is to determine the fire weather needed to assess future peatland fires under climate change. We analyzed fire, rainfall, temperature, humidity, and wind in the fire-prone areas in Sumatra. Analysis results using 20 years of satellite hotspot data from 2003 showed that fires in Sumatra occur every other month except December and April when rainfall intensifies. Due to relatively low rainfall, peatland fires in North Sumatra occur not only from January to March (the main dry season), but also around June and August if short-term drought happens. These fire trends may suggest that the peatlands of Sumatra are mostly in a combustible state. Analysis results using diurnal weather data showed that active peatland fires tend to occur under high air temperatures (around above 34 °C), low relative humidity (lower than 50%), and high wind speeds (higher than 18 km h−1). We hope that this report will help improve future peat fire assessments and fire forecasting under rapid climate change.
Dry Hard Turning versus Grinding—The Influence of Machining-Induced Surface Integrity on Fatigue Performance
Authors: Zhang Yinxia , Yuan Shaoshuai , Yang Xin , Gao Wei , Zhang Mingliang , Peng Zhenlong
Published: April 2023

Dry hard turning (DHT) provides an effective process for finishing high-hardness materials. Machining-induced surface integrity has a direct impact on functional performance. This study compares the effects of the DHT and grinding processes on machining-induced surface integrity and fatigue performance of 18CrNiMo7-6 steel. The DHT and grinding experiment were carried out by using a polycrystalline cubic boron nitride tool and corundum wheel, respectively. The 3D surface morphology, surface roughness, surface residual stress, and machining accuracy of the hourglass-shaped specimen were measured. The fatigue fracture was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The experimental results show that compared to grinding, DHT has obtained a larger surface compressive residual stress (the maximum axial and tangent residual stresses are −762.6 MPa and −442.8 MPa, respectively) and a lower surface roughness (the minimum Ra and Rq are 0.172 μm and 0.230 μm, respectively). This study is an attempt to use DHT instead of a grinding process to finish 18CrNiMo7-6 steel, providing a reference for high-quality and sustainable manufacturing of hardened steel.
Conductive Carbon-Wrapped Fluorinated Hard Carbon Composite as High-Performance Cathode for Primary Lithium Batteries
Authors: Chen Nange , Zhang Guanjun , Chen Huixin , Yue Hongjun
Published: April 2023

Lithium/carbon fluoride (Li/CFx) batteries have been widely researched due to their high theoretical specific energy. To create a high-performance electrode, the fluorinated hard carbon (FHC) is prepared by direct gas-phase fluorination. It has a high F/C ratio of 0.95 based on the gravimetric method. Selecting hard carbon (HC) with a high surface area as the carbon source allows for FHC to achieve suitable interlayer spacing and specific surface area, as well as abundant pore structures to facilitate rapid lithium ion transportation. Additionally, a composite of graphene and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is coated on the surface of FHC, enhancing electron transport speed. The resulting FHC&C exhibits a very high energy density of 1256 Wh kg−1 and an excellent power density of 72,929 W kg−1 at a high rate of 40 C. Moreover, compared to commercial CFx, FHC&C exhibits higher energy and power densities, thus presenting a promising practical application prospect.
Study on Anti-Icing Performance of Biogas-Residue Nano-Carbon Coating for Wind-Turbine Blade
Authors: Feng Fang , Wang Ruixue , Yuan Wei , Li Yang
Published: April 2023

Icing is a common phenomenon in nature and has a serious impact on wind turbines. Anti-icing coatings have become a major focus of industrial applications and academic research. In this study, a hydrophobic nano-carbon coating was prepared from corn-straw-biogas residue. The characterization results of the SEM, BET, FTIR, and XRD analyses showed that the hydrophobic nano-carbon has good pore structure and crystal structure. The hydrophobic and anti-icing effects of the carbon were confirmed by contact-angle measurements and anti-icing experiments. The ice thicknesses of the hydrophobic nano-carbon-coated aluminum-alloy blade (AAB) and bakelite blade (BB) were found to decrease by 1.20 mm and 1.10 mm, respectively, compared with those without coating; their weights decreased by 2.00 g and 1.31 g, respectively. The ratios of the icing areas before and after the hydrophobic nano-carbon coating of the AAB and BB were 8.15% and 9.65%, respectively. In brief, this method is a more effective technique for creating anti-icing coatings on wind-turbine blades and other outdoor apparatus.
Effect of Surface Roughness on Static Corrosion Behavior of J55 Carbon Steel in CO2-Containing Geothermal Water at 65 °C
Authors: Bai Haitao , Cui Xing , Wang Rui , Lv Naixin , Yang Xupeng , Li Ruixuan , Ma Yun
Published: April 2023

The influence of surface roughness on the static corrosion behavior of J55 carbon steel in CO2-containing geothermal water environment was investigated with respect to average corrosion rate, morphology, chemical composition, corrosion depth, and the cross section of corrosion products. The influence of surface roughness on the CO2 corrosion of J55 carbon steel was then proposed based on the understanding of corrosion at 65 °C. The results show that the static corrosion rate of J55 carbon steel in CO2-containing geothermal water increases with increasing surface roughness. The surface roughness of J55 carbon steel increases 5.3-fold and the CO2 corrosion rate increases by 1.4-fold under different exposure times. The static corrosion rate of J55 carbon steel in CO2-containing geothermal water changes with exposure time. The corrosion rate of J55 carbon steel decreases with the increase in exposure time, and there is little change in the corrosion rate after immersion for 2 days. At the initial stage of corrosion, the corrosion rate of J55 carbon steel was mainly affected by surface roughness. The greater the roughness, the greater the corrosion driving force and the corrosion reaction surface area and therefore the greater the corrosion rate of J55 carbon steel. After immersion for 2 days, a continuous corrosion product layer was formed on the surface of J55 carbon steel and the corrosion rate was mainly affected by the corrosion product layer. The corrosion products of J55 carbon steel are not altered by surface roughness in a CO2-containing geothermal water environment. The corrosion products of J55 carbon steel are FeCO3 and a minute amount of CaCO3.
Study on the Performance of Acrylic Polyurethane for the Protection of Handwriting on Paper Relics
Authors: Mao Tan , Li Xufeng , Shi Xiaoting , Hu Ying , Zha Junyan , Luo Xueke , Cheng Youliang
Published: April 2023

There are many important cultural relics in China, including many paper relics. Therefore, it is particularly important to find methods of protecting the handwriting in paper relics. This study focuses on the effects acrylic polyurethane materials have on preserving handwriting in paper relics by examining the color change and diffusion of handwriting before and after reinforcement treatments on handwriting materials, including ink, carbon ink, blue-black ink, pure blue ink, red ink, and pencil. The acrylic polyurethane materials have a certain degree of stability and enhance the handwriting of paper relics. We analyzed the acrylic polyurethane reinforcement material in terms of acid resistance, alkali resistance, oxidation resistance, dry heat aging resistance, and durability. The experimental results show that the optimal reinforcement concentration is within 15% for ink, 10% for carbon ink, 20% for blue-black ink, 15% to 20% for pure blue ink, and 3% for red ink and pencil. Finally, the surface of the reinforced paper and handwriting were observed through laser microscopy, SEM, EDS, and infrared spectroscopy and the protective effect of acrylic polyurethane reinforcement material on handwriting was determined.