bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimüllerian Hormone as a Tool to Predict the Age at Menopause
Authors: Chatziandreou Efstathia , Eustathiou Andreas , Augoulea Areti , Armeni Eleni , Mili Nikoletta , Boutas Ioannis , Tsoltos Nikolaos , Kapetanaki Antigoni , Kalantaridou Sofia
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to assess an eligible cut-off value of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) to detect ovarian senescence in a group of premenopausal Greek women to evaluate the possible link between AMH-values and the severity of climacteric symptoms during a follow-up of 24 months. This study included 180 women (group A, 96 women of late reproductive stage/early perimenopause; group B, 84 women in late perimenopause). We measured AMH blood levels and assessed climacteric symptoms using the Greene scale. Log-AMH is inversely associated with postmenopausal status. The AMH cut-off of 0.012 ng/mL predicts the postmenopausal status with a sensitivity of 24.2% and specificity of 30.5%. The postmenopausal stage associated with age (OR = 1.320, 95%CI: 1.084–1.320) and AMH (values ≥ vs. <0.012 ng/mL, OR = 0.225, 95%CI: 0.098–0.529, p-value < 0.001). Moreover, the severity of vasomotor symptoms (VMS) was only associated inversely with AMH (b-coefficient = −0.272, p-value = 0.027). In conclusion, AMH levels measured in the late premenopausal period are inversely associated with the time to ovarian senescence. In contrast, AMH levels measured in the perimenopausal period are inversely associated only with the severity of VMS. Therefore, a cut-off of 0.012 ng/mL predicts menopause with low sensitivity and specificity, making it challenging to use in a clinical setting.
The Effects of Arginine-Based Supplements on Fatigue Levels following COVID-19 Infection: A Prospective Study in Romania
Authors: Turcu-Stiolica Adina , Ionele Claudiu Marinel , Ungureanu Bogdan Silviu , Subtirelu Mihaela-Simona
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of two arginine-based supplements on the fatigue level of patients following the COVID-19 infection. This is a prospective study of the SARS-CoV-2-infected patients divided into two groups (according to family physicians’ prescriptions, Group 1 of patients were treated with Astenor Energy® containing arginine aspartate, B6 vitamin, biotin and magnesium, and Group 2 of patients were treated with Astenor Forte® containing L-arginine and malic acid). The patients visited their family physicians from October 2021 to January 2022, complaining of physical and/or mental fatigue following the COVID-19 infection. We recorded 505 patients (146 patients in Group 1 and 359 patients in Group 2) and analyzed the fatigue level using the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS) through its total (FAS-T), mental (FAS-M) and physical (FAS-P) scores, at baseline and after three months of treatment. There was no difference between the two groups in terms of age (p = 0.265), but more men were included in Group 1 than in Group 2 (p = 0.001). The patients from Group 2 were significantly more likely to be treated at home than those included in Group 1 (89.7% vs. 65.1%, p < 0.0001) because of the lower severity of the COVID-19 infection (asymptomatic or mild: 82.5% vs. 48.7%, p < 0.0001). After 3 months of treatment, patients indicated no fatigue in the higher percentage compared to than at the baseline (68.7% vs. 27.7%), and the fatigue level significantly decreased both in Group 1 (median baseline 33.0 vs. follow-up 17.00, p < 0.0001) and Group 2 (median baseline 25.0 vs. follow-up 17.00, p < 0.0001). These findings suggest that supplements with L-arginine may be proposed as a remedy to restore physical and mental performance affected by the fatigue burden in people with COVID-19 or following the COVID-19 infection.
Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry: Survey on Dentists’ and Final-Year Undergraduates’ Perspectives
Authors: Roganović Jelena , Radenković Miroslav , Miličić Biljana
Published: May 2023

The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI)-based dental applications into clinical practice could play a significant role in improving diagnostic accuracy and reforming dental care, but its implementation relies on the readiness of dentists, as well as the health system, to adopt it in everyday practice. A cross-sectional anonymous online survey was conducted among experienced dentists and final-year undergraduate students from the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Belgrade (n = 281) in order to investigate their current perspectives and readiness to accept AI into practice. Responders (n = 193) in the present survey, especially final-year undergraduates (n = 76), showed a lack of knowledge about AI (only 7.9% of them were familiar with AI use) and were skeptical (only 34% of them believed that AI should be used), and the underlying reasons, as shown by logistic regression analyses, were a lack of knowledge about the AI technology associated with a fear of being replaced by AI, as well as a lack of regulatory policy. Female dentists perceived ethical issues more significantly than men regarding AI implementation in the practice. The present results encourage an ethical debate on education/training and regulatory policies for AI as a prerequisite for regular AI use in dental practice.
The Pattern of Injuries in the Emergency Room during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Choi Yunhyung , Lee Duk Hee
Published: May 2023

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has obviously caused a remarkable change in patients’ emergency department (ED) visits; however, data from multicenter studies are lacking. We aimed to present a comprehensive analysis of injury-related ED visits in Republic of Korea before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: Data from 23 tertiary hospitals based on Emergency Department-based Injury In-depth Surveillance were used for this retrospective cross-sectional study. A total of 541,515 ED visits (age ≥ 20 years) between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2020 were included, and the trend of injuries related to motor vehicular accidents, falls, self-harm and suicide, assault, and poisoning were compared between the pre-COVID-19 time period and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: In the first year of the COVID-19 period, a decline in the number of ED visits was observed (41,275, 21%) compared to the previous year. Injuries caused by motor vehicles (36,332 in 2019 vs. 27,144 in 2020), falls and slips (61,286 in 2019 vs. 49,156 in 2020), assaults (10,528 in 2019 vs. 8067 in 2020), and poisonings (7859 in 2019 vs. 7167 in 2020) decreased, whereas self-harm and suicide (8917 in 2019 vs. 8911 in 2020) remained unchanged. The hospitalization (16.6% in 2019 vs. 18.8% in 2020) and ED mortality rate (0.6% in 2019 vs. 0.8% in 2020) also increased. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic led to a decline in the overall number of trauma patients seeking medical care; however, the proportion of patients requiring hospitalization or intensive care unit admission increased, indicating more severe injuries among those who did seek care. Suicide attempt rates remained unchanged, highlighting the need for targeted care and support for vulnerable patients. During the pandemic, EDs had to continue to provide care to patients with medical emergencies unrelated to COVID-19, which requires a delicate and adaptable approach to ED operations. To manage the increased stress and workload caused by the pandemic, increased resources and support for healthcare workers were needed.
Outside Inn: Exploring the Heritage of a Historic Hotel through 360-Panoramas
Authors: Rahaman Hafizur , Champion Erik , McMeekin David
Published: May 2023

This research project investigates the potential of 360-panorama tours to improve the situated and contextual interpretation, virtual visitation, and spatial understanding of recorded or simulated built heritage sites. Our chosen case study was the Subiaco Hotel, a significant heritage building designed by Summerhayes Architecture, which we documented using 360-degree photographs and linked with other media to create an interactive 360-panorama tour. Today, 360-degree panorama tours such as Google Street View enable the virtual exploration of heritage sites and historic buildings. They demonstrate limited interaction and immersion across a range of platforms and devices, without the requirement of expensive virtual reality headsets, but typically do not integrate other media to leverage spatially richer ways to communicate the historical developments of architectural interiors and exteriors. The primary goals of this study were to establish a comprehensive step-by-step workflow for creating an interactive tour of a significant heritage site, demonstrate how other media such as text, videos, and 3D models can be linked, gather feedback from cultural heritage professionals, and offer future research directions and development guidelines. Apart from detailing an optimized workflow for developing interactive 360-degree virtual tours for heritage buildings, we also offer guidelines for optimal panoramic tour creation and implementation.
A Bridge with No Name: The Controversial Resignificance of Urban Architectural Heritage from a Gender Perspective in Cuenca (Ecuador)
Authors: Aguirre Ullauri María del Cisne , Rodas Espinoza Paula Francisca , García Cordero Amanda Paulina
Published: May 2023

Urban architectural heritage and its social manifestations are immersed in dynamics beyond their origin and conservation vision. Contemporary society reinterprets, reconfigures and resignifies it according to its own logics of empowerment. In this context, this article addresses the case of a bridge in the Historic Center of Cuenca (Ecuador) known by the names of Mariano Moreno Bridge, La Escalinata Bridge or Vivas Nos Queremos Bridge. It describes its patrimonial situation in terms of its values and its relationship with gender. Because of its social implications, this study is divided into two parts: a bibliographic analysis of the historical evolution of the monument, followed by a discussion of its heritage status, and the presentation of the design, validation and application of a qualitative tool to determine the values associated with the property. This tool is used in a focus group of actors to analyze the feminist activism developed on the bridge between 2020 and 2022. This research shows how cultural heritage can be known, valued and used from an inclusive perspective and how public space can be subject to processes of resignification. This bridge became a non-place, a forgotten and a meaningless site. However, due to the struggle for the vindication of women’s rights and freedom of expression, it has taken on a new meaning, becoming an integral part of the contemporary collective imaginary, regardless of its uncertain nomenclature.
Mitochondrial Aconitase Enzymatic Activity: A Potential Long-Term Survival Biomarker in the Blood of ALS Patients
Authors: González-Mingot Cristina , Miana-Mena Francisco Javier , Iñarrea Pedro José , Iñiguez Cristina , Capablo José Luis , Osta Rosario , Gil-Sánchez Anna , Brieva Luis , Larrodé Pilar
Published: May 2023

Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a multisystemic, progressive, neurodegenerative disorder. Despite it being generally fatal within a period of 2–4 years, it is highly heterogeneous; as a result, survival periods may vary greatly among individual patients. Biomarkers can serve as tools for diagnosis, prognosis, indicators of therapeutic response, and future therapeutics. Free-radical-dependent mitochondrial damage is believed to play a crucial role in neurodegeneration in ALS. Mitochondrial aconitase, which is also known as aconitase 2 (Aco2), is a key Krebs cycle enzyme and is involved in the regulation of cellular metabolism and iron homeostasis. Aco2 is very sensitive to oxidative inactivation and can aggregate and accumulate in the mitochondrial matrix, causing mitochondrial dysfunction. Loss of Aco2 activity may therefore reflect increased levels of mitochondrial dysfunction due to oxidative damage and could be relevant to ALS pathogenesis. The aim of our study was to confirm changes in mitochondrial aconitase activity in peripheral blood and to determine whether such changes are dependent on, or independent of, the patient’s condition and to propose the feasibility of using them as possible valid biomarkers to quantify the progression of the disease and as a predictor of individual prognosis in ALS. Methods: We measured the Aco2 enzymatic activity in the platelets of blood samples taken from 22 controls and 26 ALS patients at different stages of disease development. We then correlated antioxidant activity with clinical and prognostic variables. Results: Aco2 activity was significantly lower in the 26 ALS patients than in the 22 controls (p < 0.05). Patients with higher levels of Aco2 activity survived longer than those with lower levels (p < 0.05). Aco2 activity was also higher in patients with earlier onset (p < 0.05) and in those with predominantly upper motor neuron signs. Conclusions: Aco2 activity seems to be an independent factor that could be used in the long-term survival prognosis of ALS. Our findings suggest that blood Aco2 could be a leading candidate for use as a biomarker to improve prognosis. More studies are needed to confirm these results.
Cooperation in the Conceptualization of Autonomous Strategic Initiatives: The Role of Managers’ Intellectual and Social Capital
Authors: Adamides Emmanuel D.
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this paper is to explore how the social position of functional managers, as defined by their stocks of intellectual and social capital, influences their attitude towards cooperation for the integration of distributed knowledge in the conceptualization of bottom-up (autonomous) strategic initiatives. Bourdieu’s social practice theory was employed for integrating the organizational conditions in the initiative conceptualization-as-knowledge-creation process. By developing and analyzing two case studies on strategic operations, it was found that the degree of engagement in productive cooperation, and hence the potential and effectiveness of functional managers as knowledge-creating agents promoting their particular interests, are influenced by their social position which in turn depends on the path of accumulation of their intellectual and social capital resources.
From Fashion Brand to Artwork: Divergent Thinking, Copyright Law, and Branding
Authors: Jankowska Marlena , Sorokowska Berenika
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study is to explore the interaction between copyright, branding, marketing, and heritage protection with regard to a fashion brand. The authors use analytical-critical and legal-dogmatic methods, supplemented with desk research, a case study approach, and a review of the marketing literature. This paper argues that the top-tier fashion brands use the concept of artification in order to build their brands, mesmerize clientele, and increase revenues. Although design and reference to the arts play a major role in the luxurious and premium end of the fashion business, this analysis proves that the top players do not necessarily observe the appropriate laws in these areas. The reader will see examples of the flouting of basic legal constraints by big players, e.g., copyrights or property rights, including the monetisation of the creativity of others with the expectation of no legal challenge. Offenders capitalise on the likelihood that a legal suit is too demanding for smaller players, such as foundations or museums.
Laser Additive Manufacturing of Layered Zr-Based Bulk Metallic Glass Composite
Authors: Ma He , Qin Dandan , Shang Chun , Lu Yunzhuo
Published: May 2023

As a potential functional material, much effort has been devoted to enhancing the mechanical properties of bulk metallic glass composites (BMGCs). Among them, layered BMGCs are regarded as effective for achieving a strength–ductility synergistic effect. However, it is difficult with the existing metallic glass (MG) preparation technologies to obtain a decent layered structure. In addition, the fragile interface between layers formed using the traditional fabricating method always exacerbates the deterioration of mechanical properties, which restricts the wide application of layered BMGCs. In the case of laser additive manufacturing (LAM), the cooperation of coarse grains in the hot affected zone (HAZ) and fine grains in the remelting zone induced by a unique thermal history is of key importance in eliminating the fragile interface and therefore overcoming premature cracking. Thus, we successfully synthesized Nb-Zr48Cu46.5Al4Nb1.5 layered material with a yield strength of 1332 (±91) MPa and a compression ductility of 4.17 (±0.14)% via LAM. The results of the compressive curves of Nb and BMGC prepared by LAM decisively demonstrate that the layered material obtains a certain degree of plasticity while maintaining relatively high strength. This remarkable mechanical property is mainly attributed to the asynchronous deformation and the interaction of the adjacent Nb and MG layers. It is worth emphasizing that a distinctive round-way crack extension is discovered during the deformation process, which plays a significant role in breaking through the strength ductility trade-off. In addition, the source of yield strength is calculated theoretically using the rule of the mixture and the dislocation strengthening principle. The results indicate that the strength contributed by geometrically necessary dislocations is around 101.7 MPa. In addition, the strength calculated by the rule of the mixture is ~1201.9 MPa. This work offers a new paradigm for BMGCs with excellent strength and ductility as practical engineering materials.
Influence of Severe Plastic Deformation by Extrusion on Microstructure, Deformation and Thermal Behavior under Tension of Magnesium Alloy Mg-2.9Y-1.3Nd
Authors: Legostaeva Elena , Eroshenko Anna , Vavilov Vladimir , Skripnyak Vladimir A. , Luginin Nikita , Chulkov Arsenii , Kozulin Alexander , Skripnyak Vladimir V. , Schmidt Juergen , Tolmachev Alexey , Uvarkin Pavel , Sharkeev Yurii
Published: May 2023

The microstructural investigation, mechanical properties, and accumulation and dissipation of energies of the magnesium alloy Mg-2.9Y-1.3Nd in the recrystallized state and after severe plastic deformation (SPD) by extrusion are presented. The use of SPD provides the formation of a bimodal structure consisting of grains with an average size 15 µm and of ultrafine-grained grains with sizes less than 1 µm and volume fractions up to 50%, as well as of the fine particles of the second Mg24Y5 phases. It is established that grain refinement during extrusion is accompanied by an increase of the yield strength, increase of the tensile strength by 1.5 times, and increase of the plasticity by 1.8 times, all of which are due to substructural hardening, redistribution of the phase composition, and texture formation. Using infrared thermography, it was revealed that before the destruction of Mg-2.9Y-1.3Nd in the recrystallized state, there is a sharp jump of temperature by 10 °C, and the strain hardening coefficient becomes negative and amounts to (−6) GPa. SPD leads to a redistribution of thermal energy over the sample during deformation, does not cause a sharp increase in temperature, and reduces the strain hardening coefficient by 2.5 times.
Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease Virus: Current Knowledge and Emerging Perspectives
Authors: Jiménez-Cabello Luis , Utrilla-Trigo Sergio , Lorenzo Gema , Ortego Javier , Calvo-Pinilla Eva
Published: May 2023

Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) of ruminants is a viral pathology that has significant welfare, social, and economic implications. The causative agent, epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV), belongs to the Orbivirus genus and leads to significant regional disease outbreaks among livestock and wildlife in North America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania, causing significant morbidity and mortality. During the past decade, this viral disease has become a real threat for countries of the Mediterranean basin, with the recent occurrence of several important outbreaks in livestock. Moreover, the European Union registered the first cases of EHDV ever detected within its territory. Competent vectors involved in viral transmission, Culicoides midges, are expanding its distribution, conceivably due to global climate change. Therefore, livestock and wild ruminants around the globe are at risk for this serious disease. This review provides an overview of current knowledge about EHDV, including changes of distribution and virulence, an examination of different animal models of disease, and a discussion about potential treatments to control the disease.
Comparison of Granites from the Eastern and Western Districts of the Gejiu Ore District in South China: Implication for Petrogenesis and Tin Metallogeny
Authors: Sun Saijun , Zhang Junjie , Li Shuang , Niu Haobin , Wu Zhaojian , Sun Weidong
Published: May 2023

Late Cretaceous granitoids are developed in the eastern and western districts of the Gejiu ore district, but tin deposits mainly occur in the eastern district, and the reasons for the difference in mineralization between the eastern and western districts are still controversial. Considering the main factors controlling granite Sn fertility, the whole-rock geochemical characteristics of granites on both sides are compared. LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb analyses of the Gejiu granites yielded two age periods: the early phase from 79.2 to 83.3 Ma and the later phase from 73.8 to 75.6 Ma. The western district granites have higher zircon εHf(t), CaO/Na2O, Ba, and Sr concentrations and lower Rb/Sr ratios than the eastern district granites, indicating that the western district granites have more mantle-derived materials in the source than the eastern district granites. Results of oxygen fugacity show that the western granites have a higher oxygen fugacity condition. More depleted Ba, Sr, P, Eu and Ti characteristics with obviously negative Eu anomalies in the eastern granites also have high Rb/Sr ratios and low Nb/Ta and Zr/Hf ratios, indicating that the eastern granites experienced highly magmatic differentiation, attributed to high volatile F contents that can reduce the viscosity and solidus of magma. Combined with the differences in field observations and structural styles, on the whole, the western district granites have higher oxygen fugacities and lower F contents and magmatic differentiation than those in the eastern district granites, indicating that the western district granites are not conducive to mineralization.
Gene Therapy Using Efficient Direct Lineage Reprogramming Technology for Neurological Diseases
Authors: Chang Yujung , Lee Sungwoo , Kim Jieun , Kim Chunggoo , Shim Hyun Soo , Lee Seung Eun , Park Hyeok Ju , Kim Jeongwon , Lee Soohyun , Lee Yong Kyu , Park Sungho , Yoo Junsang
Published: May 2023

Gene therapy is an innovative approach in the field of regenerative medicine. This therapy entails the transfer of genetic material into a patient’s cells to treat diseases. In particular, gene therapy for neurological diseases has recently achieved significant progress, with numerous studies investigating the use of adeno-associated viruses for the targeted delivery of therapeutic genetic fragments. This approach has potential applications for treating incurable diseases, including paralysis and motor impairment caused by spinal cord injury and Parkinson’s disease, and it is characterized by dopaminergic neuron degeneration. Recently, several studies have explored the potential of direct lineage reprogramming (DLR) for treating incurable diseases, and highlighted the advantages of DLR over conventional stem cell therapy. However, application of DLR technology in clinical practice is hindered by its low efficiency compared with cell therapy using stem cell differentiation. To overcome this limitation, researchers have explored various strategies such as the efficiency of DLR. In this study, we focused on innovative strategies, including the use of a nanoporous particle-based gene delivery system to improve the reprogramming efficiency of DLR-induced neurons. We believe that discussing these approaches can facilitate the development of more effective gene therapies for neurological disorders.
Mechanobiological Analysis of Nanoparticle Toxicity
Authors: Ketebo Abdurazak Aman , Din Shahab Ud , Lee Gwang , Park Sungsu
Published: May 2023

Nanoparticles (NPs) are commonly used in healthcare and nanotherapy, but their toxicity at high concentrations is well-known. Recent research has shown that NPs can also cause toxicity at low concentrations, disrupting various cellular functions and leading to altered mechanobiological behavior. While researchers have used different methods to investigate the effects of NPs on cells, including gene expression and cell adhesion assays, the use of mechanobiological tools in this context has been underutilized. This review emphasizes the importance of further exploring the mechanobiological effects of NPs, which could reveal valuable insights into the mechanisms behind NP toxicity. To investigate these effects, different methods, including the use of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) pillars to study cell motility, traction force production, and rigidity sensing contractions, have been employed. Understanding how NPs affect cell cytoskeletal functions through mechanobiology could have significant implications, such as developing innovative drug delivery systems and tissue engineering techniques, and could improve the safety of NPs for biomedical applications. In summary, this review highlights the significance of incorporating mechanobiology into the study of NP toxicity and demonstrates the potential of this interdisciplinary field to advance our knowledge and practical use of NPs.
Cyclic Voltammetry Study of Closo-Ruthenacarboranes
Authors: Grishin Ivan D. , Zimina Anastasia M. , Kaltenberg Alexander A.
Published: May 2023

Electrochemical properties of transition metal complexes are important parameters that should be considered for the successful application of these compounds in catalytic reactions. The proper choice of ligands and the type of its coordination allow the construction of a catalyst with high performance. The reversibility of complex oxidation is a prerequisite for successful participation in redox catalysis, while the potential values correlate with the rate of the process and necessary catalyst loading. This work summarizes the results of the exploration of a series of ruthenium carborane complexes based on the nido-C2B9 ligand obtained in our group by cyclic voltammetry and describes the found correlations. The knowledge of the electrochemical properties of the studied ruthenacarboranes is required for the optimization of its structure for successful catalysis of Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization or other applications. It was found that the value of the potential of reversible Ru(II)-Ru(III) transition may vary from −0.501 to 0.389 V versus Fc|Fc+ couple, depending on the nature of auxiliary phosphine, halogen or nitrile ligand, natural bite angle of κ2-diphosphine ligand and the presence of alkyl substituents in the carborane cage. The further oxidation towards formal Ru(IV) may be reversible or not depending on the complex structure. The found trends are in good agreement with the earlier performed findings in the field of coordination chemistry and should be considered as a tool for obtaining of complexes suitable for catalytic applications.
The Role of Blue and Red Light in the Orchestration of Secondary Metabolites, Nutrient Transport and Plant Quality
Authors: Trivellini Alice , Toscano Stefania , Romano Daniela , Ferrante Antonio
Published: May 2023

Light is a fundamental environmental parameter for plant growth and development because it provides an energy source for carbon fixation during photosynthesis and regulates many other physiological processes through its signaling. In indoor horticultural cultivation systems, sole-source light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have shown great potential for optimizing growth and producing high-quality products. Light is also a regulator of flowering, acting on phytochromes and inducing or inhibiting photoperiodic plants. Plants respond to light quality through several light receptors that can absorb light at different wavelengths. This review summarizes recent progress in our understanding of the role of blue and red light in the modulation of important plant quality traits, nutrient absorption and assimilation, as well as secondary metabolites, and includes the dynamic signaling networks that are orchestrated by blue and red wavelengths with a focus on transcriptional and metabolic reprogramming, plant productivity, and the nutritional quality of products. Moreover, it highlights future lines of research that should increase our knowledge to develop tailored light recipes to shape the plant characteristics and the nutritional and nutraceutical value of horticultural products.
Influence of Planting Density on Sweet Potato Storage Root Formation by Regulating Carbohydrate and Lignin Metabolism
Authors: Liang Qinggan , Chen Hongrong , Chang Hailong , Liu Yi , Wang Qinnan , Wu Jiantao , Liu Yonghua , Kumar Sunjeet , Chen Yue , Chen Yanli , Zhu Guopeng
Published: May 2023

An appropriate planting density could realize the maximum yield potential of crops, but the mechanism of sweet potato storage root formation in response to planting density is still rarely investigated. Four planting densities, namely D15, D20, D25, and D30, were set for 2-year and two-site field experiments to investigate the carbohydrate and lignin metabolism in potential storage roots and its relationship with the storage root number, yield, and commercial characteristics at the harvest period. The results showed that an appropriate planting density (D20 treatment) stimulated cambium cell differentiation, which increased carbohydrate accumulation and inhibited lignin biosynthesis in potential storage roots. At canopy closure, the D20 treatment produced more storage roots, particularly developing ones. It increased the yield by 10.18–19.73% compared with the control D25 treatment and improved the commercial features by decreasing the storage root length/diameter ratio and increasing the storage root weight uniformity. This study provides a theoretical basis for the high-value production of sweet potato.
Research on Properties of PBAT/CaCO3 Composite Films Modified with Titanate Coupling Agent
Authors: Liu Zhekun , Meng Fantao , Tang Xianggang , Su Chengzhuang , Mu Qinglin , Ju Guannan
Published: May 2023

High cost, low crystallinity, and low-melt strength limit the market application of the biodegradable material poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), which has become a major obstacle to the promotion of PBAT products. Herein, with PBAT as resin matrix and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as filler, PBAT/CaCO3 composite films were designed and prepared with a twin-screw extruder and single-screw extrusion blow-molding machine designed, and the effects of particle size (1250 mesh, 2000 mesh), particle content (0–36%) and titanate coupling agent (TC) surface modification of CaCO3 on the properties of PBAT/CaCO3 composite film were investigated. The results showed that the size and content of CaCO3 particles had a significant effect on the tensile properties of the composites. The addition of unmodified CaCO3 decreased the tensile properties of the composites by more than 30%. TC-modified CaCO3 improved the overall performance of PBAT/CaCO3 composite films. The thermal analysis showed that the addition of titanate coupling agent 201 (TC-2) increased the decomposition temperature of CaCO3 from 533.9 °C to 566.1 °C, thereby enhancing the thermal stability of the material. Due to the heterogeneous nucleation of CaCO3, the addition of modified CaCO3 raised the crystallization temperature of the film from 97.51 °C to 99.67 °C and increased the degree of crystallization from 7.09% to 14.83%. The tensile property test results showed that the film reached the maximum tensile strength of 20.55 MPa with the addition of TC-2 at 1%. The results of contact angle, water absorption, and water vapor transmission performance tests showed that TC-2 modified CaCO3 increased the water contact angle of the composite film from 85.7° to 94.6° and decreased the water absorption from 13% to 1%. When the additional amount of TC-2 was 1%, the water vapor transmission rate of the composites was reduced by 27.99%, and the water vapor permeability coefficient was reduced by 43.19%.
Sunlight-Driven Degradation of Alprazolam and Amitriptyline by Application of Binary Zinc Oxide and Tin Oxide Powders
Authors: Finčur Nina , Šojić Merkulov Daniela , Putnik Predrag , Despotović Vesna , Banić Nemanja , Bognár Szabolcs , Jovanović Dušica , Panić Sanja , Ivetić Tamara , Abramović Biljana
Published: May 2023

In recent years, much attention has been paid to pharmaceuticals as potential toxic bioactive substances in the worldwide environment. These compounds are continuously introduced into the surroundings in small concentrations, which certainly affects the quality of water, ecosystem, and the general health of living organisms. Photocatalysis is a promising technique for treating pharmaceutically active compounds as organic pollutants over traditional technologies. This study proposes the application of photocatalysts composed of zinc oxide (ZnO) and tin oxide (SnO2), synthesized using a solid-state method, for the photocatalytic degradation of two selected psychoactive drugs, amitriptyline (AMI) and alprazolam (ALP), under simulated solar and UV irradiation in an aqueous system. The newly synthesized photocatalysts were characterized using the following techniques: SEM/EDS, XRD, DLS, and UV/Vis spectroscopy. The obtained data confirmed the successful synthesis and the possible photocatalytic application of the new materials. Concerning the photocatalytic evaluation, the main results indicate that the highest removal efficiency of AMI and ALP was reached in the presence of ZnO/SnO2 synthesized in a molar ratio of 2:1 and calcined at 700 °C, under 1.0 mg/mL catalyst loading. Based on the reutilization findings, it can be concluded that the mentioned photocatalyst had not lost its efficiency after three successive runs for the photodegradation of ALP. Additionally, pure ZnO powders showed the highest activity after calcination at 500 °C, in the case of both examined pollutants. The experiments with tert-butanol, sodium fluoride, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid suggested that the relative contribution of various reactive species changed in the following order: positively charged holes > OHfree• > OHads•.
Application of Quality by Design Approach in the Optimization and Development of the UPLC Analytical Method for Determination of Fusidic Acid in Pharmaceutical Products
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed , Alhabib Nasser Ali , Alshora Doaa , Bekhit Mounir M. Salem , Taha Ehab , Mahdi Wael A. , Harthi Abdulelah M.
Published: May 2023

Background: Analytical techniques are a crucial method used in quality control procedures. Fusidic acid (FU), an antibacterial drug, is available on the market in a semisolid dosage form. This work aimed to develop a simple, sensitive, and robust UPLC assay for FU. Method: The effect of the formic acid concentration (X1 (1%, 0.55%, and 0.1%)), and column temperature (X2 (40, 32.5, and 25 °C)) on the retention time, peak area, and peak height were determined. Results: The results show that a long retention time of 1.18 min can be achieved with a low column temperature and a low to medium concentration of formic acid. A good peak height resolution was obtained with a low concentration of formic acid at different temperature settings. The optimized condition was suggested by the software program to analyze the drug in a mobile phase, consisting of 72% acetonitrile and 28% water containing 0.1% formic acid with a column temperature adjusted to 40 °C. Conclusion: The method was validated in terms of linearity, accuracy, precision, and robustness. In addition, the stability degradation study determined that the method can separate the drug from other degradation production. The method was applicable to determine the drug content in the marketed product.
A New Extended Weibull Distribution with Application to Influenza and Hepatitis Data
Authors: Cordeiro Gauss M. , Biazatti Elisângela C. , de Santana Luís H.
Published: May 2023

The Weibull is a popular distribution that models monotonous failure rate data. In this work, we introduce the four-parameter Weibull extended Weibull distribution that presents greater flexibility, thus modeling data with bathtub-shaped and unimodal failure rate. Some of its mathematical properties such as quantile function, linear representation and moments are provided. The maximum likelihood estimation is adopted to estimate its parameters, and the log-Weibull extended Weibull regression model is presented. In addition, some simulations are carried out to show the consistency of the estimators. We prove the greater flexibility and performance of this distribution and the regression model through applications to influenza and hepatitis data. The new models perform much better than some of their competitors.
In Vitro Genotoxicity Evaluation of PAHs in Mixtures Using Experimental Design
Authors: Castel Rebecca , Tassistro Virginie , Claeys-Bruno Magalie , Malleret Laure , Orsière Thierry
Published: May 2023

Settled dusts are sinks for environmental pollutants, including Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) that are ubiquitous, persistent, and carcinogenic. To assess their toxicity in mixtures, Toxic Equivalent Factors (TEFs) are routinely used and based on the hypothesis of additive effects, although PAH interactions may occur and remain an open issue. This study investigated genotoxic binary interaction effects for six PAHs in mixtures using two in vitro assays and estimated Genotoxic Equivalent Factors (GEFs) to roughly predict the genotoxicity of PAH in mixtures. The Design of the Experiment approach was used with the micronucleus assay for cytostasis and micronuclei frequency and the alkaline comet assay for DNA damage. GEFs were determined for each PAH independently and in a mixture. For the cytostasis endpoint, no PAHs interaction was noted. BbF and BaP had a synergistic effect on DNA damage. All the PAH interacted between them regarding chromosomal damage. Although the calculated GEFs were similar to the TEFs, the latter may underestimate the genotoxic potential of a PAH mixture. GEFs calculated for PAH alone were lower than GEFs for PAHs in mixtures; thus, mixtures induce greater DNA/chromosomal damage than expected. This research helps to advance the challenging issue of contaminant mixtures’ effects on human health.
Problems of accounting of payroll calculations
Authors:   Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education “Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod”, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, Druzhilovskaya T.Y.
Published: May 2023

In the Programs for the Development of Federal Accounting Standards adopted in recent years, there is no standard devoted to the issues of accounting for payroll calculations. At the same time, there are numerous situations in which the answer to a number of accounting questions of such calculations is not unambiguous. The article analyzes such problematic situations. It substantiates the presence of debatable questions about in which cases the costs of payment should be included in the cost of assets created in the organization, and in which cases such costs should be attributed to the expenses of the period. Examples of possible discrepancies in relation to the accounting of such situations are given. The article also explores the issue of assessing wage obligations. Substantiates the existence of debatable issues relating to the assessment of long-term pay obligations. On the basis of research,the article argues the conclusion that it is necessary to adopt a federal accounting standard for payroll calculations, the rules of which would eliminate the possible ambiguity of the practical solution of issues related to the accounting of payroll calculations. The research methods were comparison, analysis, synthesis, grouping method, systemic and logical approaches. The results of the study complement the study of the problems of standardization of accounting issues for various objects and business operations.
Medical professionals: features of the conclusion of an employment contract on an external part-time basis
Authors:   Department of Economics and Management of the Institute of Economics, Management and Law, Moscow City University. Moscow, Shinkareva O.V. , Soloduha P.V. ,   Department of Economics and Management of the Institute of Economics, Management and Law, Moscow City University. Moscow
Published: May 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the peculiarities of concluding an employment contract with medical officers when hiring them on an external part-time basis. It is noted that the medical organization when concluding such a contract must take into account a number of features. It is noted that there are maximum limit standards for the work of part-time workers, which should not exceed 4 hours per day (with a number of exceptions) and half of the monthly norm for the corresponding category of employees. At the same time, in some cases, restrictions may be different — for example, certain categories of medical personnel can work a monthly rate. The documents that are necessary for concluding an employment contract with a part-time employee are listed, as well as cases when there is no need to conclude such an agreement. The features of the work of an external part-time employee were analyzed in comparison with a full-time employee, conclusions were drawn based on the results of the study.
“O mercado define isso”: estrutura e adaptação na dinâmica do trabalho de músicos brasileiros na transição do século XX ao XXI
Authors: Heringer Costa Rodrigo , Requião Luciana
Published: May 2023

Analisamos neste artigo transformações verificadas nas características do trabalho de musicistas no Brasil, entre o fim do século XX e a contemporaneidade. Pesquisas concluídas ou em andamento e diálogo com a literatura científica embasaram a investigação aqui empreendida. À luz da compreensão de elementos estruturais a impactarem a organização das atividades laborais de tais agentes, pouca autonomia é percebida na delimitação da dinâmica organizacional do trabalho na área por musicistas levados a se adaptarem a demandas de ordem econômica, social e/ou política nos distintos períodos históricos analisados. Como resultado de tais adaptações, propomos uma tipologia de duas formas de trabalho características –ainda que não exclusivas– a cada um dos referidos períodos: o trabalho flexível (fim do século XX) e o multitarefas (início do século XXI). Da análise empreendida, verificou-se uma tendência à crescente responsabilização do trabalhador pelos processos e resultados de seu trabalho, configurando um processo de precarização que é potencializado pela digitalização da produção e do consumo das atividades musicais. Observa-se, no entanto, uma realidade a contrariar o discurso da reinvenção, constantemente reproduzido por agentes e instituições vinculados ao campo musical no intuito de ressaltar a autonomia de musicistas na condução das transformações vinculadas a suas práticas laborais.
Estudio de los factores comunicativos que definen la percepción social de la música en la juventud española
Authors: Hormigos Jaime
Published: May 2023

Conocer la importancia de la música para la juventud nos ayuda a comprender mejor su percepción de la realidad. Esta investigación analiza los factores comunicativos que determinan la percepción de la música a partir de una encuesta realizada en España a 1000 individuos de ambos sexos, con edades comprendidas entre los 15 y los 25 años. El cruce de variables sociodemográficas, culturales y educativas con el lugar de escucha, tiempo y forma de exposición, y el análisis de las temáticas de las canciones más escuchadas, nos llevan a concluir que hoy la música es un elemento comunicativo esencial en la configuración de la identidad juvenil que pierde poder socializador al ser manipulado por las industrias culturales. Esta manipulación crea un oído social que favorece una escucha simple de las canciones, provocando una respuesta socialmente aprendida que no siempre trasmite valores positivos a la juventud.
La salsa: identidad, baile y reclamo
Authors: Guevara Nicolás
Published: May 2023

El abordaje del canto social y político generalmente se limita al estereotipo creado de cantautores acompañados de una guitara, tan común en España, Estados Unidos y, sobre todo, en América Latina. Por ello, el presente trabajo se aproxima al poder del canto como discurso presente en los más variados géneros musicales y da cuenta del canto sociopolítico en el desarrollo de la salsa, incluso, con orquestas que versionaron canciones de cantautores latinoamericanos. Asimismo, explora las manifestaciones ante las injusticias presentes en los géneros cubanos que sirvieron de antecedentes de la salsa y pone de relieve a los dos compositores más significativos de esta vertiente salsera de los años 70: Catalino “Tite” Curet Alonso y Rubén Blades.
Doenças negligenciadas: uma revisão sobre as principais infecções endêmicas em populações de baixa renda, seus avanços e desafios
Authors: Vieira Tácio Azevedo
Published: May 2023

As doenças negligenciadas são um grupo de doenças infecciosas que acometem especialmente populações de baixa renda. A dengue, a doença de Chagas, a leishmaniose, a malária, a hanseníase e a tuberculose fazem parte desse grupo, e possuem grande relevância para a saúde pública no Brasil. O objetivo desse estudo é verificar na literatura os desafios e avanços dessas infecções nos últimos anos, além de abordar as principais características de cada uma delas: epidemiologia, transmissão, fisiopatologia, diagnóstico, prevenção e tratamento.
Impacto da implantação da Rede Cegonha sobre a mortalidade materna e partos cesárea: uma análise comparativa
Authors: Monteiro Aline Moreira Cunha , Da Silva Evanildo José , Cruz Cleya da Silva Santana , de Oliveira Leida Calegário
Published: May 2023

O presente estudo buscou investigar o impacto da implantação da Rede Cegonha sobre a mortalidade materna e os números de partos cesárea realizados na Macrorregião de Saúde Jequitinhonha, MG, comparativamente aos índices nacionais. Tratou-se de uma pesquisa quanti-qualitativa. A abordagem foi feita pela coleta de dados relativos ao período de 1994 a 2019, a partir do Sistema de Informações sobre Nascidos Vivos. Em relação aos dados de mortalidade materna, foi abordado o período de 2000 a 2019 (Brasil) e 2006 a 2019 (Macrorregião) com a busca de dados no Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade, sendo aplicado o teste “t” de Student para avaliar possíveis diferenças antes e após a implantação da Rede Cegonha. Os resultados indicam a inexistência de diferença significativa entre o número de mortes maternas antes e após a implantação da Rede Cegonha, mas uma reversão muito significativa da Razão de Mortalidade Materna e do número de partos cesárea, quando se avaliou a linha de tendência em ambos os casos, tanto no Brasil, quanto na Macrorregião de Saúde Jequitinhonha, MG. Estes resultados demonstram a eficácia e a importância da adesão a esta estratégia governamental, bem como do acompanhamento rotineiro dos indicadores relativos à Rede Cegonha no país.