bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple-perspective consumer segmentation using improved weighted Fuzzy k-prototypes clustering and swarm intelligence algorithm for fresh apricot market
Authors: Shi Yan , Zhang Siyuan , Wang Siwen , Xie Hui , Feng Jianying
Published: September 2024

Leveraging clustering technology for consumer segmentation is crucial for discerning the nuanced differences among fresh apricot consumer groups and subsequently executing precise marketing strategies. To achieve a more comprehensive and lucid consumer segmentation and identify typical characteristics of apricot consumers in different clusters, this research constructs a novel multiple-perspective segmentation indicator system for fresh apricot consumers. Given the diverse degrees of importance and types of consumer segmentation variables, and the inherent sensitivity of the original Fuzzy k-prototypes (FKP) algorithm to clustering centers, we proposed the weighted Fuzzy k-prototypes (WFKP) algorithms for mixed data (MD) optimized by the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm (MDPSO-WFKP) and mixed data sparrow search algorithm (SSA) (MDSSA-WFKP), both incorporating information entropy weighting for mixed attributes. We test the proposed algorithms on four University of California Irvine machine learning repository (UCI) datasets and the consumer segmentation dataset, and the performance of all selected evaluation indexes shows significant improvement. These findings unequivocally validate the efficacy of the proposed methodologies. Since the MDSSA-WFKP algorithm has the best comprehensive effect on the evaluation indexes, we use it to conduct in-depth apricot consumer segmentation research and find that the apricot consumers can be subdivided into three groups with differentiation: ‘Buddhist-like youths’, ‘Upscale attribute enthusiasts’, and ‘Quality-oriented consumers’. Finally, this paper gives the corresponding marketing suggestions based on the characteristics of the segmented groups.
Unveiling the carbon footprint of True Neapolitan Pizza: paving the way for eco-friendly practices in pizzerias
Authors: Moresi Mauro , Falciano Aniello , Cimini Alessio , Masi Paolo
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the environmental ramifications in the production and consumption of pizza. The PAS 2050 standard methodology was used to quantify the cradle-to-grave carbon footprint of a typical medium-sized Neapolitan pizzeria offering both table service and takeaway in cardboard boxes. A spectrum of sustainable practices capable of mitigating the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of pizzerias was analyzed. By accounting for consistent GHG emissions across specific life cycle phases—such as energy consumption, refrigerant gas leakage, detergent production, and wastewater treatment—it was possible to estimate the cradle-to-grave carbon footprint of different iterations of the True Neapolitan Pizza. For instance, the Marinara pizza had a carbon footprint of approximately 1.7 kg CO2e/kg while the Margherita pizza topped with mozzarella cheese registered roughly twice that figure. Moreover, garnishing the Margherita with buffalo mozzarella increased its carbon footprint to 4.2 kg CO2e/kg. This difference in environmental impact can be chiefly attributed to the condiments of vegetable or animal origin, with variations in protein and fat content significantly influencing the energy value of each pizza variant. These findings emphasized the importance of informed decisions for a greener culinary future, highlighting the critical role of ingredient choices in shaping the sustainability profile of pizza offerings.
Extraction and characterization of cellulose from agricultural waste of hemp (Cannabis sativa) and parthenium (Parthenium hysterophorus)
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Zia Afia , Nauman Ahmad Muhammad , Alam Sahib , Ullah Niamat , Us Salam Muhammad Baseer , Aziz Tariq , Alhomrani Majid , Alsanie Walaa F. , Alamri Abdulhakeem S.
Published: September 2024

The current study focused on the extraction of cellulose from two selected plants, hemp (Cannabis sativa) and parthenium (Parthenium hysterophorus). The research successfully isolated high-purity cellulose from both plants using a chlorination and alkaline extraction process. A higher yield (%) (38.4 ± 0.18) was obtained from hemp compared to parthenium (22 ± 0.82). Characterization techniques were used to probe the structure and properties of the extracted cellulose. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis revealed functional groups characteristic of cellulose, while X-ray diffraction confirmed its highly crystalline structure in both samples. Scanning electron microscopy provided valuable insights into the cellulose morphology, indicating a smoother surface and reduced fiber diameter after treatment due to the removal of noncellulosic components. The research paved the way for the development of eco-friendly bioproducts utilizing cellulose from hemp and parthenium, promoting a more sustainable future.
Production and evaluation of high nutritional sheets formulated from red beetroot puree and pomegranate juice
Authors: Mamdoh Ershidat Omar Turki , El-Sayed Eatemad M. , Hozifa Shaymaa A. , Ahmed El-Farsy Marwa Fawzi , El-Mesiry Dalia M. , ElMeslamy Soher Abd-Elfattah , Shehata Rehab A. , Ahmed Marwa A. , Antar Faramawy Asmaa , Mohamed Elsebaie Essam
Published: September 2024

The objective of this investigation was studying the Physicochemical characteristics and microbiological stability of five innovative fruit sheets containing red beetroot puree (RBRP) and pomegranate juice (PJ) in ratios of 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, and 0:100 during 6-month storage at room temperature (25–30ºC). The results showed that moisture content (ranging from 14.64% to 14.96%), water activity (ranging from 0.638 to 0.642), total phenols (ranging from 18.94 to 19.20 mg GAE/g), total flavonoids (ranging from 16.50 to 16.59 mg rutin [RE]/g), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity (ranging from 73.66% to 77.02%), and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging activity (ranging from 50.13% to 52.09%) in 100% RBRP sheets were more than in 100% PJ sheets. In contrast, 100% RBRP sheets had a lower pH (ranging from 4.09 to 4.13), total soluble solids (TSS) (ranging from 63.99 Brix to 65.08 Brix), total sugars (ranging from 59.58% to 59.90%), and hardness (ranging from 12.88 N to 14.10 N) than that of 100% PJ sheets. In addition, the findings revealed that at zero time when the replacement percentage of PJ for RBRP increased in the sheets formula from 25% to 100%, there was increase in TSS (from 65.11 Brix to 67.41 Brix), acidity (from 1.03% to 1.90%), total sugars (from 59.29% to 61.72%), and hardness (from 12.27 N to 13.85 N) as well as decrease in moisture content (from 15.01% to 14.75%), water activity (from 0.652 to 0.630), total phenols content (18.71 to 17.01 mg GAE/g), total flavonoids content (15.74 to 12.97 mg RE/g), DPPH scavenging activity (from 72.19% to 63.28%), ABTS scavenging activity (from 50.86% to 44.28%), and L* value (from 22.80 to 21.86). Significant decrease (p ≤ 0.05) was observed in pH, moisture, water activity, total sugars, total phenol contents, total flavonoid contents, and antioxidant activity during the storage period. All sheets were found to be extremely sensory-acceptable and microbiologically safe. In conclusion, RBRP and PJ or a mix of them could be used as functional sheets with high storage stability.
Dendritic cells and type I and II interferon production in the local microenvironment of sinonasal tumors
Authors: Nizheharodava D. B. , Marozava N. A. , Ivanchyk G. I. , Kulinich S. S. , Kolyadich J. V. , Zafranskaya M. M.
Published: September 2024

The subpopulations of dendritic cells and their functional potential determined by endogenous interferon status in tumor microenvironment is an important stage in tumor-specific T-lymphocytes effector reactions development. In this regard, understanding the patterns of sinonasal neoplasms immune cells changes is important in the context of the search for biomarkers of the tumor process which may open up new opportunities for targeted therapy. This study is the first to provide a comparative description of dendritic cells subsets and the type I and type II interferon production in patients with malignant and benign sinonasal tumors.

Tumor tissue from 30 patients with neoplasms – main group (15 patients with malignant tumors and 15 patients with inverted papilloma) and biopsy material of the mucous membrane from 15 patients with polypous rhinosinusitis (comparison group) were used. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells were isolated from tissue using automated and enzymatic cell dissociation. The surface and intracellular cells phenotype was assessed using monoclonal antibodies and flow cytometry. The production of α- and γ-interferons was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Statistical data analysis was proceeded in Statistica 10.0.

An increase of tumor-infiltrating myeloid dendritic cells number was found in patients with malignant tumors as compared to control group what correlated with the stage of the pathological process (R = -0.67; p = 0.01). There was an increase in both myeloid and plasmacytoid dendritic cells in the neoplasm tissue in patients with inverted papilloma relative to the comparison group. The microenvironment of malignant growth was characterized by an increase in α- and γ-interferons production in combination with a pronounced decrease in IFNγ-producing T cells percent while a decrease in both intracellular and extracellular production of γ-interferons was detected in tumor tissue of patients with inverted papilloma as compared with control group.

In patients with sinonasal tumors changes in dendritic cells subpopulations as well as a decrease in the reserve capacity of γ-interferon synthesis were revealed what may characterize the involvement of these mechanisms in the formation of the antitumor immune response failure and requires further research to establish their pathogenetic role.
Dynamics of inflammatory markers in patients with normal and impaired glucose metabolism during lung exacerbation treatment
Authors: Shmarin V. V. , Pukhalskaya D. A. , Krasovsky S. A. , Chudakova Yu. M. , Martynov A. V. , Shmarina G. V.
Published: September 2024

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is one of the most common autosomal-recessive inherited diseases. The primary genetic defect in CF is aligned CFTR gene mutation which encodes a membrane protein functioning as cAMP-depended chloride channel. Classic phenotypical manifestations of CF include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with bronchiectasis, persisting infection (St. aureus, Ps. aeruginosa, B. cepacia) and aberrant inflammatory response, as well as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency with malabsorption, hypotrophy and growth retardation. CFTR deficiency is also accompanied by β-cell pancreatic dysfunction, causing glucose metabolism disturbances and CF-related diabetes. The aim of the study was the comparison of inflammatory markers dynamics in patients with normal and disturbed glucose metabolism during pulmonary exacerbation treatment. The study included 10 patients with impaired glucose tolerance (Group 1) and 24 patients with normal carbohydrate metabolism (Group 2). Patients of the two groups did not significantly differ in demographic characteristics, pulmonary function test and body mass index parameters, as well as in the number of F508del mutation carriers and in the number of those who were infected with Ps. aeruginosa and B. cepacia complex. Blood sampling was performed twice: before and after a routine course of antibiotic therapy. Plasma levels of biomarkers including the antibodies to single- and double-stranded DNA (ss-DNA-IgG, ds-DNA-IgG, respectively), the hormones (dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA sulfate), C-reactive protein (CRP), Mn-dependent superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), and the cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interferon-γ (IFNγ), IFNα, tissue growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A) were assessed using commercial immunoassay kits. Our study shows that antibiotic treatment did not have a sufficient influence on levels of inflammatory markers in patients with disturbances of glucose metabolism while patients with normal glucose tolerance demonstrated a significant reduction in inflammatory marker values after the therapy. The data may suggest both impaired effectivity of antibiotic treatment and aberrant inflammatory response in patients with glucose intolerance.
Effect of a supramolecular delivery system based on hyaluronic acid with cyclodextrin on the antitumor properties of oxaliplatin in vitro
Authors: Pashkina E. A. , Bykova M. V. , Berishvili M. T. , Zhang Y. M. , Kozlov V. A.
Published: September 2024

One of the modern approaches to the treatment of cancer is the creation of targeted delivery systems for anticancer drugs, which allows increasing the concentration of the delivered substance in the right place and preventing its accumulation in healthy organs and tissues. At the same time, one can also expect an increase in the duration and effectiveness of the drugs, as well as a reduction in side effects during therapy. The hyaluronic acid receptor CD44, which, according to the literature, is highly expressed in many types of tumors and regulates metastasis, is a promising target for targeted delivery of anticancer drugs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a supramolecular delivery system based on hyaluronic acid with nanosized cavitand cyclodextrin on the antitumor properties of oxaliplatin in vitro. Cell lines 1301, SK-MEL-28 and B16 were used as tumor cells. Cells were cultured in the presence of a delivery system based on hyaluronic acid (HACD), oxaliplatin (OX), and their complex (HACD-OX) at various concentrations in complete culture medium RPMI-1640 containing 0.3% L-glutamine, 4% gentamicin and 10% inactivated FBS serum for 48 hours in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2 at 37°C. The effect of the studied compounds on the viability of cell cultures was assessed using the WST test. It was shown that in the case of the T-cell lymphoma cell line 1301, the HACD delivery system did not affect the ability of OX to reduce the viability of tumor cells of this line; the effect of free oxaliplatin and the complex was comparable. However, in the case of melanoma cells (B16 and SK-MEL-28), the HACD-DOX complex has a more pronounced antitumor effect, causing a statistically significant decrease in the viability of B16 and SK-MEL-28 cells compared to free oxaliplatin.
Investigating age-related dynamics and transcriptional signatures of CD8+HLA-DR+ regulatory T lymphocytes: perspectives in understanding immune system aging
Authors: Matveeva K. S. , Rybtsov S. A. , Shevyrev D. V.
Published: September 2024

The ability of the CD8+HLA-DR+ regulatory T lymphocytes population to regulate the immune response was first described several years ago. It is known that the suppressive effects of these cells depend on intercellular interactions and are mediated by the expression of checkpoint inhibitor molecules such as CTLA-4, TIM-3, PD-1 and LAG-3. The CD8+HLA-DR+ regulatory T cells also share some properties with conventional CD4+ regulatory T lymphocytes. Nevertheless, the characteristics and function of this subpopulation remain poorly understood. Furthermore, studying the properties of CD8+HLA-DR+ regulatory T cells becomes relevant in the light of general age-associated changes in the human immune system and the increased sensitivity of CD8+T lymphocytes to these changes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the age dynamics and search for transcriptional signatures of the CD8+HLA-DR+ regulatory T cells. For this purpose, flow cytometric analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 18 donors aged 21 to 85 years was performed. Bioinformatic analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data was carried out to search for signatures. It was found that CD8+HLA-DR+ regulatory T cells accumulate with age. The transcriptional signatures of this population consist of genes involved in antigen presentation and cytotoxicity, along with a decrease in the expression of genes encoding proteins of activating protein 1 complex. These data suggest mechanisms of suppressor function of CD8+HLA-DR+ regulatory T lymphocytes associated with the ability of these cells to present antigens and perform cytotoxic activity against effector T lymphocytes. The accumulation of the studied cells may imply a potential influence of CD8+HLA-DR+ regulatory T lymphocytes on the efficiency of adaptive immune response in the aging. Further studies of this population may provide insights into its role in age-related changes in the immune system and develop strategies to improve the immune response in the elderly.
Increased proliferative response of highly differentiated CD57+NKG2C+NK cells expressing NKG2A
Authors: Alekseeva N. A. , Vavilova Yu. D. , Kovalenko E. I.
Published: September 2024

During infection with cytomegalovirus (HCMV), the content of so-called adaptive NK cells with the CD57+NKG2C+ phenotype increases in the peripheral blood, capable of exhibiting specialized functional activity aimed at controlling the infection upon repeated encounter with the antigen. In addition, adaptive NK cells are characterized by antitumor cytotoxic effects and long lifespan. In this regard, HCMV-specific adaptive NK cells are of interest as a therapeutic agent. The specificity of adaptive NK cells to HCMV is determined primarily by the recognition of viral peptides presented by the non-classical class I histocompatibility molecule HLA-E, by means of the activating receptor NKG2C. However, being highly differentiated, adaptive CD57+NKG2C+ cells tend to proliferate less well in response to soluble stimuli compared to less differentiated NK cells, making their accumulation in vitro difficult. In addition to the activating receptor NKG2C, adaptive NK cells express receptors of the KIR family, but mostly do not express the inhibitory receptor NKG2A, which is also capable of recognizing the HLA-E molecule presenting the HCMV peptide. Despite the fact that, in general, in CD57+NKG2C+NK cells from HCMV-seropositive donors, NKG2A expression is greatly reduced, in a number of individuals a significant proportion of NKG2A-positive cells was observed in this fraction. Using the example of an individual with a high proportion of NKG2A+ in the population of CD57+NKG2C+NK cells and a high titer of antibodies to HCMV, we showed that when stimulated with IL-2 in combination with K562-mbIl21 feeder cells, NK cells of the CD57+NKG2C+NKG2A+ subpopulation exhibit increased proliferative activity in comparison with CD57+NKG2C+NKG2A-, and also have a higher level of expression of the adapter molecule FcεRIγ, taking part in signal transduction of activating receptors NKp30, NKp46 and CD16. Thus, NKG2A-positive CD57+NKG2C+ cells may be potential precursors of adaptive NK cells and mediate their accumulation during HCMV infection. The data obtained in this work allows us to deepen knowledge in the field of differentiation of HCMV-specific NK cells, as well as expand the range of approaches to the accumulation of highly cytotoxic adaptive-like NK cell effectors in vitro.
Synthetic small interfering RNAs selectively suppress the expression of proinflammatory cytokine genes (IL-25 and TSLP) in experiments in vitro
Authors: Kaganova M. M. , Shilovskiy I. P. , Timotievich E. D. , Yumashev K. V. , Gurskii D. A. , Vinogradova K. V. , Popova M. V. , Khaitov M. R.
Published: September 2024

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an inflammatory disease of the upper respiratory tract (nasal mucosa). AR affects up to 40% of the world’s population; in the Russian Federation, the incidence is 18% to 30%, depending on the region. Despite the fact that AR is not a severe pathology, it causes significant economic burden. Another threat associated with this disease is that in 40% of cases, patients with AR eventually develop a more severe disabling pathology – AD. Widespread prevalence and significant economic disadvantages caused by AR determine the importance of developing new ways of prevention and control of this disease, as the existing methods of therapy are insufficient. However, the search for new ways of therapy is impossible without a detailed investigation of the molecular mechanisms of AR pathogenesis. For a long time it was considered that this allergic inflammation is formed by Th2-dependent mechanism with involvement of Th2-lymphocytes, B-cells and eosinophils and pro-inflammatory cytokines: IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13. However, experimental evidence has now accumulated on the role of epithelial cells of the respiratory tract and the proinflammatory cytokines they secrete (IL-25, IL-33 and TSLP) in the pathogenesis of AR and AD. IL-25 has been shown to induce the production of IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13, directing a Th2-type immune response. At the same time, mice with inactivated IL-25 developed barely any Th2-immune response. Inactivation of IL-33 significantly reduces inflammation (mediated by eosinophils) of the respiratory tract. Mice knockout for the cytokine receptor TSLP did not develop nasal hyperreactivity in response to allergen, but the level of nasal mucosal inflammation remained high. Currently, work is actively progressing on the development of new drugs capable of specifically blocking the activity of the listed cytokines; first of all, drugs based on neutralizing monoclonal antibodies. However, there are other technologies that can be used to regulate the activity of genes, such as the technology based on the RNA interference. It can be used to suppress the expression of any gene with a known nucleotide sequence, including genes encoding pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Considering the above, the aim of this work was to design synthetic miRNA molecules and study their ability to specifically block the expression of genes encoding proinflammatory cytokines IL-25 and TSLP in experiments in vitro.
The role of MCP-1 and SDF-1 in impaired mobilization of endothelial progenitor cells from the bone marrow in coronary heart disease
Authors: Chumakova S. P. , Denisenko O. A. , Urazova O. I. , Shipulin V. M. , Andreev S. L. , Vins M. V. , Gladkovskaya M. V. , Demin M. S. , Dmitrieva A. A. , Gulomzhenov A. G.
Published: September 2024

It is relevant to study of angiogenesis mediators and the mobilization of early endothelial progenitor cells (EPС) from bone marrow into the blood in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD), suffering and not suffering from ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICMP).

СHD patients: 30 people with ICMP and 22 people without ICMP, 15 healthy donors. The content of early EPС (VEGFR2+CD34+CD14+) was determined in the blood and bone marrow by flow cytofluorometry, the concentration of MSP-1, SDF-1, VEGF-A – by multiplex analysis, of HIF-1α – by ELISA.

Тhe content of SDF-1 and HIF-1α in peripheral blood in patients with CHD without cardiomyopathy was higher than in healthy individuals (respectively 60.00 (50.00-80.00) pg/mL and 6.00 (5.00-6.20) ng/mL versus 30.00 (5.00-45.00) pg/mL, p = 0.049 and 4.60 (3.28-5.11) ng/mL, p = 0.049), with ICMP corresponded to the norm. Тhe concentration of SDF-1 in the bone marrow was higher, and the level of HIF-1α was less than their content in the bloodstream, regardless of the presence of ICMP (respectively 130.0 (90.0-170.0) pg/mL, p = 0.005 and 0.97 (0.80-1.11) ng/mL, p < 0.001). The level of MCP-1 in the blood varied within the normal range in patients with CHD of both study groups (190.0 (168.0-215.0) pg/mL), and in the bone marrow was higher only in patients with ICMP (406.5 (265.0-583.0) pg/mL, p = 0.028). Regardless of ICMP presence, the content of VEGF-A in the blood of patients with CHD corresponded to the norm (3.80 (1.00-6.50) pg/mL) and in myeloid tissue. The number of EPC was increased in the blood of patients with CHD without cardiomyopathy (0.70 (0.46-1.23) and 0.19 (0.13-0.32) %, p < 0.001) and corresponded to their number in the bone marrow. And in patients with ICMP, normal values of the indicator were recorded in the blood with the accumulation of EPC in myeloid tissue (0.57 (0.45-0.98) %, p = 0.019).

The development of ICMP is associated with the accumulation of early EPC in myeloid tissue due to their increased retention by an excess of MCP-1 in the bone marrow with weak involvement in the bloodstream due to the lack of a surplus of SDF-1 and HIF-1a in the blood.
The role of epigenetic factors in childhood atopic dermatitis
Authors: Bystritskaia E. P. , Murashkin N. N. , Naumova E. A. , Materikin A. I. , Solntseva V. K.
Published: September 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a genetically determined chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by itching, relapsing course, age-related features of the lesion morphology and localization. The etiological factors contributing to the development of AD are: allergic reactions, inflammatory reactions in the skin, leading to a barrier disfunction, the affect and interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Epigenetic mechanisms also play a key role in immune regulation. The aim of this work is to study the genome-wide methylation profile in the skin of children with AD in the acute stage, as well as to determine changes in the expression level of immune response genes associated with common signaling pathways during therapy. Whole-genome sequencing was conducted to examine methylation in the skin samples from AD patients and controls. The stages of bioinformatics data processing were carried out. Changes in the expression levels of the TLR2, TLR9, IL4, IL13, CAMP, and DEFB1 genes before and after treatment were carried out using RT-PCR-RT on samples of mononuclear blood cells. When comparing samples from patients with AD and healthy children, changes were shown in the methylation of 2364 regions of genomic DNA with their corresponding specific genes. Among the identified genes, those related to processes associated with the pathogenesis of AD were selected. At the next stage, changes in the expression of the described immunity factors (TLR2, TLR9, IL-4, IL-13, DEFB1, CAMP) were assessed over time according to the type of treatment. For this purpose, patients were divided into 2 groups depending on the prescription of systemic therapy. Three months after treatment, the level of expression for all studied immune factors decreased. However, a significant decrease in expression for almost all parameters (except for the DEFB1 gene) was recorded in the group in which systemic therapy (dupilumab) was used in addition to topical treatment. At the same time, the SCORAD index after treatment improved by an average of 63% and amounted to 17±6.0 points. Thus, systemic therapy aimed at suppressing signaling of IL-4 and IL-13 cytokines indirectly leads to normalization of the expression levels of innate immune factors. Studying the regulation of molecular genetic mechanisms of immunity involved in the processes of inflammation in AD helps to clarify the immunopathogenesis of this disease, determine diagnostic markers and targets for drug therapy.
EFFECT OF SURFACE ROUGHNESS OF CONVERGING END ON FLOW AND SPRAY CHARACTERISTICS OF A SWIRL INJECTOR
Authors: Tharakan T. John , Sreejith T. S.
Published: September 2024

Swirl injectors with tangential inlet ports are widely used in cryogenic and LOx-hydrocarbon liquid rocket engines.
The internal and external flow characteristics of these injectors depend strongly on their geometric parameters. The
geometric parameters of identical swirl injectors vary significantly even though they were produced by the same
machining process. The dependence of the flow and spray characteristics of swirl injectors on the surface roughness of the converging end of the nozzle is investigated. The flow characteristics investigated were the discharge coefficient and film thickness; the spray characteristics included the spray cone angle, breakup length, and mean droplet diameter. It was found that when the surface roughness is lower than the thickness of liquid film by a factor of about 500, there is no significant reduction in discharge coefficient and spray cone angle. The effect of surface roughness on breakup length and droplet size is shown to be small for the range of surface roughness considered in this study.
DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF A SLOTTED PLANAR ANTENNA WITH PARASITIC RING PATCH FOR EFFICIENT 5G MICROWAVE APPLICATIONS
Authors: Yadav Swati Varun , Yadav Manish Varun , Gupta Ridhi , Yadav Dinesh , Bhati Kirti Panwar , Ali Tanweer , Singh Vikas
Published: September 2024

Design and analysis of a slotted planar antenna with a parasitic ring patch for efficient 5G microwave applications is presented. The antenna design aims to strike a balance between complexity and size efficiency. Its front side features a rectangular patch at the center, comprising L-shaped, T-shaped, and inverse T-shaped elements, alongside four parasitic rings on top. The central feed utilizes a 50-ohm strip line connected to a microstrip line. On the back side, the antenna incorporates three parasitic rings on top, four horizontal strips arranged in an increasing order, and a ground plane with a small rectangular slot. To evaluate its performance, the antenna is simulated using CST Microwave Studio on an FR-4 substrate with overall dimensions measuring 13 × 15 × 1.5mm3. The results demonstrate an impressive impedance bandwidth of 60.8% and a return loss of -28 dB within the frequency range of 3.2-6 GHz, with a central frequency of 4.6 GHz. Throughout its operational range, the radiation patterns remain constant, exhibiting stable polar patterns and efficient performance with a wide gain of 4.81 dBi and an efficiency of 82%; the proposed antenna proves to be suitable for 5G microwave applications.
Effect of carbodiimides on the compatibility and hydrolytic behavior of PLA/PBAT blends
Authors: Wang Yang , Chen Chen , Li Jun , Huang Jinfei , Xiong Lulu
Published: September 2024

Blends of polylactic acid (PLA) and poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) have great potential to replace conventional polyolefin and polyester materials. However, poor compatibility and fast degradation rate limit its development. In this paper, the effects of two monomer-type carbodiimides and one polymerized carbodiimide on the crystalline, thermal stability, hydrolysis properties, and mechanical properties of PLA/PBAT blends are investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, gel permeation chromatography, melt mass-flow rate, terminal carboxyl content, tensile properties, and rotational torque. It is found that all the three carbodiimide additives can improve the compatibility and enhance the mechanical, processing, and thermal stability properties of PLA/PBAT blends except for their reduced crystallization performance. Moreover, regarding the hydrolysis properties, the two monomeric carbodiimides exhibit little effect on the hydrolysis of PLA/PBAT blends, even accelerating the degradation rate under alkaline conditions. However, the antihydrolysis effect of polycarbodiimide is remarkable, which effectively improves the compatibility and antihydrolysis properties of PLA/PBAT blends.
Factors affecting flexural and impact strength of natural fiber reinforced polymer composites: a review
Authors: Chahar Manjeet , Kumar Rajneesh , Habeeb Asad , Kumar Garg Ramesh , Punia Upender
Published: September 2024

The surging demand for energy-efficient products and their environmental implications are important propelling factors contributing to the growing popularity of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites (NFRPCs) in several domains. NFRP composites diversification significantly influenced the study and their development in recent years. The intrinsic characteristics of natural fibers have posed difficulties in the growth and use of NFRPCs. A significant amount of study has recently been performed to solve these sorts of problems in order to enhance the performance of NFRPCs and their uses. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the chemical composition of natural fibers, their physical and mechanical characteristics, and factors affecting the flexural and impact strength of NFRPCs, such as type of fiber, weight percentage of fiber, fiber geometry, surface treatments, stacking, hybridization, orientation, fillers, and information accomplished with them. The product life-cycle evaluation and sustainability development of plant-based NFRCs and the growing uses of NFRPCs, focusing on the automobile sector, are also explored. Finally, multiple perceptions were concluded with the expectation that this study may contribute to future improvements in the flexural and impact strength of NFRPCs.
Insights and experiences of sustainability decision-making by construction clients
Authors: Aboagye-Nimo Emmanuel , Piroozfar Poorang , Carmichael Euan , Booth Colin A.
Published: September 2024

Sustainable practices can only be successful when key stakeholders (e.g. client, designer, main contractor, subcontractors, etc.) are in support of achieving them as shared values. The common goal of improving sustainable practices can be embedded in all aspects of projects ranging from conception to completion and in operation phase through to refurbishment and deconstruction or re/upcycling. This paper explores the various approaches that consultants adopt when ‘encouraging’ clients to buy into sustainable designs for large projects. Semi-structured interviews were collected from industry professionals (from project managers to quantity surveyors). Themes explored within the data included cost versus ‘environmentally conscientious’ options, fundamental decisions for moving towards sustainable principles, and knowledge of long-term benefits of such choices. Furthermore, the study investigates the techniques that consultants and project teams adopt when clients are directly or indirectly against the concept of implementing such practices particularly when they believe them to be non-beneficial due to financial implications. The study sheds much-needed light on best practice methods adopted by firms operating in financially difficult environments, working to ensure green targets. It is evident from this research that everyday subcontractors need further assistance through additional measures if higher standards of sustainability are to be realised.
Examining urban design strategies in historic districts: a systematic literature review
Authors: Chen Dingran
Published: September 2024

The global community faces the challenge of balancing the conservation of historic districts with urbanisation demands. This systematic literature review explores innovative strategies for conserving and revitalising historic districts within urban design. An analysis of literature from the Scopus database highlights this as a prominent research area, supported by international reviews emphasising the critical role of urban design strategies. The findings indicate that urban designers can utilise modern geographic information technology, spatial analysis, data support, community engagement, and transdisciplinary knowledge to regenerate historic districts effectively. However, there is a notable lack of systematic, in-depth empirical research, with a predominance of conservative and repetitive descriptive case studies. Although these studies logically explore the significance of historic districts, there is an urgent need for innovative research on urban design methodologies. This study aims to identify research gaps through a comparative analysis of international findings, offering new perspectives and theoretical support for the sustainable development of historic districts.
Short sources, islandhood, and pronominal correlates: New experimental support from German and Spanish for a short source approach to apparent exceptions to the clausemate condition on multiple sluicing
Authors: Cortés Rodríguez Álvaro , Griffiths James
Published: September 2024

This paper focuses on multiple sluicing (MS) utterances in which the antecedent for sluicing is syntactically complex, insofar as it contains at least one embedded clause. Complex antecedent MS (henceforth caMS) is subject to the clausemate condition (CC). Phrased in sententialist terms, the CC bans sluiced wh-phrases from being base-generated in different finite clauses in the elliptic clause. Under specific conditions, it seems that the CC is obviated. We report results from acceptability judgment experiments on German and Spanish that provide further evidence that elliptic wh-clauses in caMS can be monoclausal in nature and that these monoclausal elliptic clauses (so-called short sources) are judged as significantly more acceptable than their isomorphic, biclausal elliptic clause counterparts. We interpret these results as supporting the view that purported obviations to CC are only apparent, following Cortés Rodríguez (2022a) and Cortés Rodríguez & Griffiths (to appear). Because these experiments are novel in that they focus on caMS configurations involving syntactic islands, their results provide new insights into how putative CC-obviation and islandhood interact and demonstrate that not only personal but also relative pronouns can function as correlates in MS.
Using a Board Game to Learn a Physical Assessment Course in Nursing Education: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Demiray Ayşe , Açıl Ayşegül
Published: September 2024

Objective: Nursing students are expected to acquire the skills necessary to provide competent patient care in complex healthcare settings. This study aimed to explore the effect of a physical assessment board game on nursing students’ knowledge level and determine their opinions about the game.

Methods: A randomized controlled study design was used. The study was conducted from December 2019 to January 2020 among 56 nursing students (game group= 28, control group= 28) enrolled in an undergraduate nursing program in Türkiye. The data were collected using the Kolb’s Learning Styles Inventory to determine students’ learning styles, the Knowledge Evaluation Form for physical assessment, and the Student Opinion Form for students’ opinions about the game. Mean scores for the pre-test and post-tests were compared using independent and paired sample t-tests.

Results: A significant difference was found between the pre-test and post-test knowledge scores of the game group (P<.05). The mean post-test knowledge score of the students in the game group was higher than that of the students in the control group, and the difference between the groups was statistically significant (P<.05).

Conclusion: The game was beneficial for teaching physical assessment course. Future studies should incorporate different game samples, such as the development of a web-based game, as this study focused on a board game that supported physical assessment skills.
Post-recession business growth:impact on ROE in the long and short term
Authors: Spitsin Vladislav , Ryzhkova Marina , Spitsina Lubov , Leonova Victoria
Published: September 2024

At the beginning of the current century, the world economy experienced several crisis events that negatively influenced business performance. Many businesses have experienced long periods of declining sales. This paper continues the series of scientific works on the study of restarting growth, i.e., the growth of companies after a long period of stagnation or falling sales. The paper contributes to the world literature by analyzing the impact of different types of restarting growth on firm performance (firm’s return on equity – ROE). The panel data includes7528 observations (1882 firms * 4 years). Regression models with fixed effects are used for data analysis. The study revealed a positive impact of long-term growth on ROE, but it did not confirm the impact of short-term growth on ROE. The maximum benefits accrue to young companieswith long-term fast sales growth. Empirical studies provide varying results on the impact of growth on firm profitability. Our approach reconcilesthese contradictions and shows that sustainable long-term growth allows firms to achieve higher profitability. These results will be of interest forinvestors, who should focus on finding companies that can demonstrate annual sales growth for several years. It is also advisable for owners and managers to strive for long-term annual growth in firm sales.
Diferencias de género en los valores laborales.Un estudio en la fuerza de trabajo colombiana
Authors: Monsalve-Castro Carolina , Fajardo-Ortiz Eddy Johanna , Ramírez-Molina Reynier Israel
Published: September 2024

Changes in business dynamics require a closer attention to the interests and motivations of the workforce to attract, retain and retain individuals to meet their personal expectations and organizational goals. The purpose of this study is to examine whether gender presents an orientation towards extrinsic, intrinsic, social and prestige work values of individuals in the workplace. Quantitative cross-sectional research is conducted, the data collection was carried out through a questionnaire. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin factor analysis and sample adequacy analysis were used to analyze the correlations between variables and evaluate the fit of the data, as well as the hypothesis test that provides the difference of means for comparison. The study involved 535 individuals classified into 331 women and 204 men located in Colombia. The results showed that there is a greater orientation of women towards extrinsic work values, aspects such as salary and job security are essential when looking for a job or staying for a long time in an organization, with no differences between men and women with respect to intrinsic, social and prestige values
TECNOLOGIAS DIGITAIS E AS CRIANÇAS DO SÉCULO XXI: OS DESAFIOS EDUCACIONAIS PÓS ISOLAMENTO SOCIAL (2020-2022)
Authors: Almeida Nilson Ferreira de , Santinello Jamile
Published: September 2024

O presente estudo é um recorte temporal da pesquisa de doutoramento, em andamento, e tem por objetivo estabelecer parâmetros e reflexões entre os pressupostos teóricos das tecnologias digitais, bem como algumas especificidades sobre questões relacionadas a cultura digital, apresentando-se investigações literárias acerca da temática e dissertando sobre os modos da inclusão da criança no processo tecnológico e como ele interfere no universo infantil. vislumbrando que estes sujeitos estiveram e estão com maior intensidade, expostos aos artefatos midiáticos. A investigação toma como base teóricos como: Cury (2017), Moran (2017), Lévy (1999), Martins (2011), Base Nacional Curricular Comum /BNCC (2017), Santella (2012), Fantin (2006), Kenski (2012). Assim problematiza-se: quais os desafios, reflexões e perspectivas do uso e das apropriações de tecnologias digitais para com o público infantil no contexto pós-pandêmico? o estudo apresentará uma análise dos reflexos sobre a cultura digital nos contextos escolares, familiares e sociais, centraliza sobre os desafios enfrentados na educação da criança no período pandêmico e pós pandêmico, o que resultou na suposta inclusão das tecnologias digitais no cotidiano  infantil, Assim, a presente pesquisa torna-se emergente, diante da mudança de hábitos, e a inclusão das tecnologias digitais, que por encontrarem em um contexto de desigualdades,  os desafios familiares e escolas aumentam e requerem mediação dos responsáveis. a pesquisa é de cunho bibliográfico com análises qualitativas dos dados coletados, que levam ao conhecimento e compreensão da cultura digital que foram se construindo paralelo a cultura social.
Advocating people-centered approach to counter antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh , Shrivastava Prateek
Published: September 2024

The significance of people-centered interventions in to fight against antimicrobial resistance cannot be overstated. The containment of antimicrobial resistance will require a multifaceted approach, and in this general public occupies the center stage. The need of the hour is to strengthen governance, expand surveillance, promote research, and expand prevention, diagnosis, and management of drug-resistant infections.
Retrospective evaluation of stuttering cases with and without PANDAS comorbidity
Authors: Çam Ray Perihan , Doğan Merve , Barutçu Adnan , Sehlikoğlu Necmiye İrem , Yolga Tahiroğlu Ayşegül , Çelik Gonca
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical, demographic, and autoimmune characteristics of stuttering cases with and without Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) comorbidity.
Materials and Methods: The study included 271 children and adolescents aged 2-17 years who were brought to our outpatient clinic between 2012 and 2022 and diagnosed with stuttering. The demographic information and medical characteristics of the patients and their families, such as infections, allergies, rheumatic diseases, and tonsillectomy or penicillin prophylaxis, were evaluated retrospectively. Their routine laboratory test results were also documented.
Results: In total, 55 girls (20.3%) and 216 (79.7%) boys at a mean age of 7.6±3.6 years were included. Forty-eight cases (17%) were in the PANDAS group, and 223 (82.3%) were in the non-PANDAS group. The comparison of the PANDAS and non-PANDAS groups showed that the PANDAS group had significantly higher rates of history of tonsillectomy, history of adenoidectomy, and history of frequent infections. The rates of psychiatric, autoimmune, and allergic diseases in the families of the cases in the PANDAS group were significantly higher. The PANDAS group had a significantly greater frequency of comorbid conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, tics, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and anxiety, as well as a greater mean number of comorbid conditions with at least one diagnosis. Additionally, the age at onset of psychiatric symptoms and the mean age of cases were higher in the PANDAS group. The mean initial anti-streptolysin O level of the PANDAS group was 326.5±335.3 IU/mL, while the mean level in the non-PANDAS group was 155.6±215.1 IU/mL.
Conclusion: Both the individuals in the PANDAS group and their families had high rates of comorbidities and inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. In cases of stuttering, there is a need to evaluate these conditions, determine the required methodologies, and explain the relevant pathophysiological mechanisms.
Renoprotective activity of Ficus carica seed oil
Authors: Şirinyıldız Ferhat
Published: September 2024

Ficus carica seed oil possesses properties that can be used by everyone and can be integrated into people's diets. In addition to its accessibility, its long-term use has both protective and therapeutic effects against kidney damage. Further studies should elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying its efficacy and determine its pharmacokinetic properties.