bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Outcome and Overall Survival in Patients with Primary or Secondary CNS Lymphoma after Surgical Resection vs. Biopsy
Authors: Staub-Bartelt Franziska , Rittenauer Jos , Sabel Michael , Rapp Marion
Published: November 2023

Background: Central nervous system lymphoma (CNSL) is rare form of brain tumour. It manifests either as primary CNS lymphoma (pCNSL) originating within the central nervous system or as secondary CNS lymphoma (sCNSL), arising as cerebral metastases of systemic lymphoma. For a significant period, surgical resection was considered obsolete due to the favourable response to chemotherapy and the associated risk of postoperative deficits. The objective of the present study was to demonstrate the benefits of resection in CNSL patients, including extended survival and improved postoperative function. Methods: A retrospective study involving patients diagnosed with either PCNSL or SCNSL that were surgically approached at our neurosurgical department between 2010 and 2022 was conducted. Patients were categorised into three subgroups based on their neurosurgical approach: (1) stereotactical biopsy, (2) open biopsy, (3) resection. We then performed statistical analyses to assess overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Additionally, we examined various secondary factors such as functional outcome via Karnofsky Performance Index (KPS) and prognosis scoring. Results: 157 patients diagnosed with PCNSL or SCNSL were enclosed in the study. Of these, 101 underwent stereotactic biopsy, 21 had open biopsy, and 35 underwent resection. Mean age of the cohort was 64.94 years, with majority of patients being female (54.1%). The resection group showed longest OS at 44 months (open biopsy = 13 months, stereotactic biopsy = 9 months). Calculated median follow-up was 34.5 months. In the Cox regression model, postoperative KPS 70% (p < 0.001) and resection vs. stereotactic biopsy (p = 0.040) were identified as protective factors, whereas older age at diagnosis was identified as a risk factor (p < 0.001). In the one-way analysis of variance, differences in postoperative KPS were found among all groups (p = 0.021), while there was no difference in preoperative KPS among the groups. Conclusions: Our data show a favourable outcome when resection is compared to either stereotactic or open biopsy. Additionally, the marginally improved postoperative functional status observed in patients who underwent resection, as opposed to in those who underwent biopsy, provides further evidence in favour of the advantages of surgical resection for enhancing neurological deficits.
Fe2O3/MgFe2O4 Nanosheet on Nickel Foam for High-Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Li Jiao , Mei Yilong , Su Qiwei , Wang Zhaoxin , Guo Guanlun
Published: November 2023

In this paper, the effects of nickel foam with different thicknesses, as a fluid collector, on the morphology and properties of electrode materials were explored. The Fe2O3 material, which is a common active material for supercapacitor electrodes, was used in combination with MgFe2O4. This combination resulted in better electrochemical performance and cycle stability for the Fe2O3 material. The synthesis ratio of Fe2O3/MgFe2O4 materials with the best stability, as reported in a previous article, was selected for this study. The electrode with the best performance was then selected and assembled with activated carbon to form an asymmetric supercapacitor. This supercapacitor exhibited a high specific capacity of 240 C/g, an energy density of 58.75 Wh/kg, and a power density of 200.4 W/kg at a current density of 1 A/g. These findings provide valuable references for the selection of different fluid collectors with electrodes.
Lagrange Multiplier-Based Optimization for Hybrid Energy Management System with Renewable Energy Sources and Electric Vehicles
Authors: Tran Huy Gia , Ton-That Long , Thao Nguyen Gia Minh
Published: November 2023

The issues of energy scarcity and environmental harm have become major priorities for both business and human progress. Hence, it is important and useful to focus on renewable energy research and efficient utilization of distributed energy sources (DERs). A microgrid (MG) is a self-managed system that encompasses these energy resources as well as interconnected consumers. It has the flexibility to function in both isolated and grid-connected configurations. This study aims to design an effective method of power management for a MG in the two operating modes. The proposed optimization model seeks to strike a balance between energy usage, protecting the life of batteries, and maximizing economic benefits for users in the MG, with consideration of the real-time electricity price and constraints of the power grid. Furthermore, in order to accurately account for the dynamic nature of not only the stationary battery banks used as the energy storage systems (ESS) but also the built-in batteries of electric vehicles (EVs), the model is presented as a multi-objective, multiparametric and constrained problem. The solution is proposed to be found using the Lagrange multiplier theory, which helps to achieve good performance with less computational burden. Lastly, simulation results from both the isolated and grid-connected modes also demonstrate the effectiveness of the designed method.
A Review of Research on Spectrum Sensing Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Zhang Yixuan , Luo Zhongqiang
Published: November 2023

In recent years, with the rapid development in wireless communication and 5G networks, the rapid growth in mobile users has been accompanied by an increasing demand for the electromagnetic spectrum. The birth of cognitive radio and its spectrum-sensing technology provides hope for solving the problem of low utilization of the wireless spectrum. Artificial intelligence (AI) has been widely discussed globally. Deep learning technology, known for its strong learning ability and adaptability, plays a significant role in this field. Moreover, integrating deep learning with wireless communication technology has become a prominent research direction in recent years. The research objective of this paper is to summarize the algorithm of cognitive radio spectrum-sensing technology combined with deep learning technology. To review the advantages of deep-learning-based spectrum-sensing algorithms, this paper first introduces the traditional spectrum-sensing methods. It summarizes and compares the advantages and disadvantages of each method. It then describes the application of deep learning algorithms in spectrum sensing and focuses on the typical deep-neural-network-based sensing methods. Then, the existing deep-learning-based cooperative spectrum-sensing methods are summarized. Finally, the deep learning spectrum-sensing methods are discussed, along with challenges in the field and future research directions.
Real-Time Phytoncide Monitoring in Forests: A Comparative Study of SIFT-MS and Conventional GC-MS Methods
Authors: Choi Yeji , Kim Geonwoo , Kim Soojin , Cho Jae Hyoung , Park Sujin
Published: November 2023

Conventional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis methods for measuring the concentration of phytoncides in forests are limited because of the need for an extended human presence in forests, the risk of errors, and contamination. To overcome these issues, this study introduces real-time measurement devices and selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT-MS) as potential replacements. This study was conducted in the Hongneung Experimental Forest between 19 and 21 November 2019. A correlation analysis and independent samples t-test were performed to compare the GC-MS and SIFT-MS techniques. The diurnal patterns and trends in the phytoncide concentrations analyzed using the GC-MS and SIFT-MS methods were similar, suggesting the potential replacement of GC-MS with SIFT-MS. While both methods revealed similar major components in the daytime nonvolatile organic compounds (NVOCs), with pinenes comprising approximately half of the total percentage, the 24 h SIFT-MS analysis indicated reduced proportions of pinenes and benzaldehyde, along with the detection of more diverse NVOC compounds at night. Additionally, the studies indicated that GC-MS exhibited slightly higher selectivity, resulting in the detection of fewer NVOC compounds with SIFT-MS. The correlation analysis between the microclimate indicators and phytoncide measurement methods revealed differences: GC-MS with a mini pump showed positive correlations with fine dust and industrially derived VOCs, while the 24 h real-time measurements exhibited strong negative correlations. Consequently, while the GC-MS and SIFT-MS methods exhibited both similarities and differences in phytoncide concentrations, an independent samples t-test, confirming no statistically significant differences between the two methods, suggests the suitability of adopting SIFT-MS over GC-MS for phytoncide collection and analysis in forest environments. Nevertheless, this study contributes to the literature by comparing outdoor phytoncide levels using the GC-MS and SIFT-MS methodologies. These findings, which show that the methods are closely aligned, can guide future researchers in considering SIFT-MS equipment for phytoncide studies, offering a more accessible and efficient option with real-time capabilities.
Evaluation of Different Geographic Provenances of Silver Fir (Abies alba) as Seed Sources, Based on Seed Traits and Germination
Authors: Morar Irina M. , Dan Catalina , Sestras Radu E. , Stoian-Dod Roxana L. , Truta Alina M. , Sestras Adriana F. , Sestras Paul
Published: November 2023

The evaluation of the diversity of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) populations and the reproductive traits of the trees are of great importance for the conservation of genetic resources and forest management. Therefore, important reproductive characteristics of A. alba from seven Romanian provenances, considered as different geographical populations, were evaluated. Significant differences between the provenances were observed for the female cones, seed morphology, and germination. Due to the relatively low germination of silver fir seeds, germination tests were conducted to identify treatments that can stimulate the germination capacity. Thus, the seed germination capacity was determined using four different stimulation treatments and the data were compared with those of untreated seeds, designed as the control. Considerable differences were recorded not only depending on the seed provenances, but also regarding the treatments applied to stimulate germination (Atonik biostimulator, scarification, acetone, H2SO4). The biostimulator seed treatment gave the highest germination percentage, while sulfuric acid caused the lowest germination. The research also revealed that not all the forest seed sources provide high-quality reproductive material. Furthermore, for some of the seed resources, even the germination stimulation treatments did not result in adequate germination. The findings are pertinent and valuable for identifying suitable forest populations as seed sources, as well as for their use in silver fir reforestation programs.
Spatiotemporal Variability in the Hydrological Regimes and Water Resources of the Ouham River Basin at Batangafo, Central African Republic
Authors: Nguimalet Cyriaque Rufin , Orange Didier
Published: November 2023

This paper examines the effect of rainfall decline on water resources in each sub-basin (Bozoum: 8100 km2 and Bossangoa: 22,800 km2) and at the outlet of Batangafo (43,650 km2) over the 1951–1995 period, due to a lack of measurements since 1996. Annual, monthly, and daily series of rainfall and discharges were subjected to statistical tests (rainfall and flow indices, SPI, search for ruptures/breaks, depletion coefficient, and potential groundwater discharge) to present and discuss the rainfall variability impact on the water resources of the whole basin. The average rainfall per sub-basin decreases from the west to the east according to the Ouham river direction: 1423 mm at Bozoum, 1439 mm at Bossangoa, and 1393 mm at Batangafo, the main outlet. The SPI approach provides evidence of a moderate to normal drought in the whole basin in the 1980s, mainly compared to the 1970s. Thus, deficient breaks in the rainfall series of the Ouham Basin at Batangafo were noticed in 1967 (Bossangoa and Batangafo) and 1969 (Bozoum). A declining rainfall of −5% on average tended to have the highest impact on the runoff deficit, from about −30 to −43%. The deficit seems more important from west to east, and is also high over the groundwater in each outlet (−33% at Bozoum, −29% at Bossangoa, and −31% at Batangafo) in the 1986–1995 period, despite rainfall recovery in 1991 having generated a flow increase in 1995 at Bossangoa as well as at Batangafo. At the same time, Chari/Logone at Ndjamena recorded critical discharges in both 1987 (313 m3/s) and 1990 (390 m3/s) before they increased, such as on the Ouham. These results demonstrate the decline in water resources in the Ouham River, and their direct impact on the water level of the Chari River and Lake Chad in the targeted period.
Evaluation of Factors Contributing to the Effectiveness of Internal Audit Quality in Pakistani Commercial Banks
Authors: Afzal Madiha
Published: November 2023

The Pakistani banking sectors facing numerous challenges because of poor internal audit quality. Internal audit quality has long been a source of contention. The current study examines the factors that affect internal audit quality in Pakistani commercial banks. Internal audit quality evaluated through potential factors such as competence, objectivity, performance, board audit committee support, and independence. Along with these factors, a questionnaire designed to determine the nature of the problems confronting Pakistani commercial banks. 102 questionnaires disseminated among the chief internal auditor, chief financial officer, board audit committee, and managers of 26 listed commercial banks. The impact of the factors on internal audit quality investigated using a binary logit regression model and multiple correspondence analyses. Findings show that performance, competence, and objectivity factors are statistically positively significant that influenced internal audit quality to improve it. This research helps improve the internal audit quality in Pakistani commercial banks.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Molecular Mechanism and Responsive Genes of Waterlogging Stress in Actinidia deliciosa Planch Kiwifruit Plants
Authors: Xing Mengyun , Huang Kangkang , Zhang Chen , Xi Dujun , Luo Huifeng , Pei Jiabo , Ruan Ruoxin , Liu Hui
Published: November 2023

Waterlogging stress is one of the major natural issues resulting in stunted growth and loss of agricultural productivity. Cultivated kiwifruits are popular for their rich vitamin C content and unique flavor among consumers, while commonly sensitive to waterlogging stress. The wild kiwifruit plants are usually obliged to survive in harsh environments. Here, we carried out a transcriptome analysis by high-throughput RNA sequencing using the root tissues of Actinidia deliciosa (a wild resource with stress-tolerant phenotype) after waterlogging for 0 d, 3 d, and 7 d. Based on the RNA sequencing data, a high number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in roots under waterlogging treatment, which were significantly enriched into four biological processes, including stress response, metabolic processes, molecular transport, and mitotic organization, by gene ontology (GO) simplify enrichment analysis. Among these DEGs, the hypoxia-related genes AdADH1 and AdADH2 were correlated well with the contents of acetaldehyde and ethanol, and three transcription factors Acc26216, Acc08443, and Acc16908 were highly correlated with both AdADH1/2 genes and contents of acetaldehyde and ethanol. In addition, we found that there might be an evident difference among the promoter sequences of ADH genes from A. deliciosa and A. chinensis. Taken together, our results provide additional information on the waterlogging response in wild kiwifruit plants.
Targeting the DNA Damage Response for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Wang Ruoxi , Sun Yating , Li Chunshuang , Xue Yaoyao , Ba Xueqing
Published: November 2023

Over the course of long-term evolution, cells have developed intricate defense mechanisms in response to DNA damage; these mechanisms play a pivotal role in maintaining genomic stability. Defects in the DNA damage response pathways can give rise to various diseases, including cancer. The DNA damage response (DDR) system is instrumental in safeguarding genomic stability. The accumulation of DNA damage and the weakening of DDR function both promote the initiation and progression of tumors. Simultaneously, they offer opportunities and targets for cancer therapeutics. This article primarily elucidates the DNA damage repair pathways and the progress made in targeting key proteins within these pathways for cancer treatment. Among them, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) plays a crucial role in DDR, and inhibitors targeting PARP1 have garnered extensive attention in anticancer research. By delving into the realms of DNA damage and repair, we aspire to explore more precise and effective strategies for cancer therapy and to seek novel avenues for intervention.
Sodium Butyrate Enhances the Cytotoxic Effect of Etoposide in HDACi-Sensitive and HDACi-Resistant Transformed Cells
Authors: Gnedina Olga O. , Morshneva Alisa V. , Igotti Maria V.
Published: November 2023

To overcome the problem of antitumor agent toxicity for normal cells, a combined therapy using drugs with synergistic effects seems to be more effective. We investigated the molecular mechanisms of the sensitization of tumor cells resistant and sensitive to histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) upon etoposide treatment together with the HDACi sodium butyrate (NaBut). We showed that NaBut enhances the cytotoxic effect of etoposide in both HDACi-sensitive and HDACi-resistant cells due to the accumulation of the Bax protein and the dissociation of Ku70–Bax inhibitory complexes. In HDACi-resistant cells, NaBut causes the cytoplasmic accumulation of Bax dissociated from mitochondria in complexes with Ku70 proteins. The increased phosphorylation of the pro-apoptotic Bad protein due to the NaBut-induced activation of Erk and Akt kinases is one of the possible reasons for the accumulation of Bax in the cytoplasm. Despite the inactivation of Bax in HDACi-resistant cells, its accumulation in the cytoplasm upon NaBut treatment makes it possible to enhance the apoptotic response against agents activating the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis. Thus, HDACis involved in combined therapy mediate the sensitization of tumor cells to genotoxic drugs, regardless of the cells’ resistance to HDACis.
Enhancing Walking Accessibility in Urban Transportation: A Comprehensive Analysis of Influencing Factors and Mechanisms
Authors: Liu Yong , Ding Xueqi , Ji Yanjie
Published: November 2023

The rise in “urban diseases” like population density, traffic congestion, and environmental pollution has renewed attention to urban livability. Walkability, a critical measure of pedestrian friendliness, has gained prominence in urban and transportation planning. This research delves into a comprehensive analysis of walking accessibility, examining both subjective and objective aspects. This study aims to identify the influencing factors and explore the underlying mechanisms driving walkability within a specific area. Through a questionnaire survey, residents’ subjective perceptions were gathered concerning various factors such as traffic operations, walking facilities, and the living environment. Structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the collected data, revealing that travel experience significantly impacts perceived accessibility, followed by facility condition, traffic condition, and safety perception. In the objective analysis, various types of POI data served as explanatory variables, dividing the study area into grids using ArcGIS, with the Walk Score® as the dependent variable. Comparisons of OLS, GWR and MGWR demonstrated that MGWR yielded the most accurate fitting results. Mixed land use, shopping, hotels, residential, government, financial, and medical public services exhibited positive correlations with local walkability, while corporate enterprises and street greening showed negative correlations. These findings were attributed to the level of development, regional functions, population distribution, and supporting facility deployment, collectively influencing the walking accessibility of the area. In conclusion, this research presents crucial insights into enhancing walkability, with implications for urban planning and management, thereby enriching residents’ walking travel experience and promoting sustainable transportation practices. Finally, the limitations of the thesis are discussed.
Calf Circumference as an Indicator for Cystatin C Testing in Hospitalized Elderly Male Patients for Detecting Hidden Renal Impairment
Authors: Lee Sunghwan , Lee Seul , Jo Sunhee , Kim Kyung-Ah , Yang Yu Jin , Lee Jung Joo , Kim Eunsung , Park Yongjung , Kyong Taeyoung , Kim Jeong-Ho
Published: November 2023

Serum creatinine is used to measure the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR); however, it is influenced by muscle mass and may therefore overestimate renal function in patients with sarcopenia. We examined calf circumference (CC) as a convenient muscle mass evaluation tool that can potentially indicate the need to test for cystatin C instead of creatinine in elderly inpatients. We retrospectively reviewed the electronic health record of 271 inpatients aged 65 or over. CC was determined by measuring the thickest part of the nondominant calf. eGFRcys and eGFRcr were calculated using cystatin C and creatinine levels, respectively. We evaluated optimum CC cutoff values using the eGFRcys/eGFRcr ratio for detecting hidden renal impairment (HRI, defined as eGFRcr ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 but eGFRcys < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2). CC showed a significant positive correlation with the eGFRcys/eGFRcr ratio in both sexes. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve were 0.725 and 0.681 for males and females, respectively. CC cutoffs with a sensitivity or specificity of 90% or 95% might be used to detect HRI in males. In conclusion, utilizing the optimum cutoff, CC could be a cost-effective screening tool for detecting HRI in elderly male patients using cystatin C as an add-on test.
A Panoramic X-ray as a Supportive Diagnostic Tool for the Screening of Osteoporosis in Patients with Hemophilia A and B
Authors: Czajkowska Sylwia , Rupa-Matysek Joanna , Nijakowski Kacper , Gil Lidia , Surdacka Anna , Kulczyk Tomasz
Published: November 2023

Background: Hemophilia is associated with an increased risk of developing osteoporosis and osteopenia. The aim of the study was to interpret the usefulness of fractal analysis of the trabecular bone of the mandible (FD) and selected radiomorphic indices (the antegonial index (AI) and Klemetti index (KI)) to assess the risk of reduced bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with hemophilia A/B. Methods: The study group consisted of 50 patients with type A/B hemophilia. The control group consisted of 25 males without congenital bleeding disorders. The patients had a panoramic radiograph taken with the same X-ray machine (Vistapano S, Durr Dental, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany). The AudaXCeph software (Audax d.o.o., Ljubljana, Slovenia) was used to evaluate the AI index, and the ImageJ, software with a specially prepared script, was used to evaluate the FD. The mandibular cortex was assessed distal to the mental foramen using the Klemetti index. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the AI, KI and FD values between the study group and the control group. Conclusions: This study indicated the lack of usefulness of AI, KI and fractal analysis in identifying patients with hemophilia at risk of reduced bone mass.
Achieving Sales Forecasting with Higher Accuracy and Efficiency: A New Model Based on Modified Transformer
Authors: Li Qianying , Yu Mingyang
Published: November 2023

With the exponential expansion of e-commerce, an immense volume of historical sales data has been generated and amassed. This influx of data has created an opportunity for more accurate sales forecasting. While various sales forecasting methods and models have been applied in practice, existing ones often struggle to fully harness sales data and manage significant fluctuations. As a result, they frequently fail to make accurate predictions, falling short of meeting enterprise needs. Therefore, it is imperative to explore new models to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of sales forecasting. In this paper, we introduce a model tailored for sales forecasting based on a Transformer with encoder–decoder architecture and multi-head attention mechanisms. We have made specific modifications to the standard Transformer model, such as removing the Softmax layer in the last layer and adapting input embedding, position encoding, and feedforward network components to align with the unique characteristics of sales forecast data and the specific requirements of sales forecasting. The multi-head attention mechanism in our proposed model can directly compute the dot product results in a single step, addressing long-term time-dependent computation challenges while maintaining lower time complexity and greater interpretability. This enhancement significantly contributes to improving the model’s accuracy and efficiency. Furthermore, we provide a comprehensive formula representation of the model for the first time, facilitating better understanding and implementation. We conducted experiments using sales datasets that incorporate various factors influencing sales forecasts, such as seasons, holidays, and promotions. The results demonstrate that our proposed model significantly outperforms seven selected benchmark methods, reducing RMSLE, RMSWLE, NWRMSLE, and RMALE by approximately 48.2%, 48.5%, 45.2, and 63.0%, respectively. Additionally, ablation experiments on the multi-head attention and the number of encoder–decoders validate the rationality of our chosen model parameters.
Mapping Ecological Infrastructure in a Cross-Border Regional Context
Authors: Sanguet Arthur , Wyler Nicolas , Guinaudeau Benjamin , Waller Noé , Urbina Loreto , Huber Laurent , Fischer Claude , Lehmann Anthony
Published: November 2023

Facing the decline of biodiversity worldwide, the conservation of the remaining natural and semi-natural areas is fundamental. To do so, the concept of green infrastructure has gained attention recently. This case study presents the method developed to identify the green infrastructure in a cross-border, urbanized territory between Switzerland and France in the area of influence of the city of Geneva. The first part of the methodology consists of calculating and mapping the inputs aggregated in four pillars: (i) the distribution of habitats as well as the predicted distribution of hundreds of plant and animal species, (ii) the supply of five ecosystem services, (iii) the functional connectivity for three animal species and the light pollution and (iv) five indices of landscape’s structure. These inputs are then used to run a prioritization model to identify the areas with the highest ecological interest according to these weighted inputs. The cross-border situation of this case study had impacts on the way the input data were gathered and weighted and on the way the output was created to consider the expectations of the three main local authorities involved, without creating any legal obligations on the implementation of the green infrastructure. As a positive sign of the usefulness of these results, the resulting maps were immediately transferred to the land use planners in charge of developing ambitious visions of the “Grand Genève” territory for 2050 in alignment with 10 objectives of ecological transition as recently agreed and signed by local authorities. The method presented in this article is flexible and includes a broad description of biodiversity, supporting a reliable network of areas with high ecological values for conservation purposes and human well-being.
Computational Analysis of the Influence of Menopause and Ageing on Bone Mineral Density, Exploring the Impact of Bone Turnover and Focal Bone Balance—A Study on Overload and Underload Scenarios
Authors: Franco Feliciano , Borau Zamora Carlos , Campana Diego Martín , Berli Marcelo Eduardo
Published: November 2023

This study aims to investigate the impact of hormonal imbalances during menopause, compounded by the natural ageing process, on bone health. Specifically, it examines the effects of increased bone turnover and focal bone balance on bone mass. A three-dimensional computational bone remodeling model was employed to simulate the response of the femur to habitual loads over a 19-year period, spanning premenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. The model was calibrated using experimental bone mineral density data from the literature to ensure accurate simulations. The study reveals that individual alterations in bone turnover or focal bone balance do not fully account for the observed experimental outcomes. Instead, simultaneous changes in both factors provide a more comprehensive explanation, leading to increased porosity while maintaining the material-to-apparent density ratio. Additionally, different load scenarios were tested, demonstrating that reaching the clinical osteoporosis threshold is independent of the timing of load changes. However, underload scenarios resulted in the threshold being reached approximately 6 years earlier than overload scenarios. These findings hold significant implications for strategies aimed at delaying the onset of osteoporosis and minimizing fracture risks through targeted mechanical stimulation during the early stages of menopause.
The Study of Tool Wear Mechanism Considering the Tool–Chip Interface Temperature during Milling of Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Meng Xinxin , Lin Youxi , Mi Shaowei , Zhang Pengyu
Published: November 2023

ADC12 aluminum alloy has been widely used in the aerospace, ship, and automotive fields because of its high specific strength, excellent die-casting performance, and wear resistance. Adhesion wear is the main wear mechanism of high-speed milling ADC12 aluminum alloy. The most important factor affecting adhesion wear is the tool–chip interface friction, which is directly manifested in the tool–chip interface temperature. Therefore, the temperature variation during the milling of aluminum alloy is analyzed using a temperature field model and infrared temperature measurement technology. Then, the tool wear morphology and the tool wear land width are observed using a scanning electron microscope. Finally, the tool wear mechanism considering the tool–chip interface temperature is discussed. The tool–chip interface temperature is related to the friction angle, tool–chip contact length, and friction force at the rake face, which increases first and then decreases as the cutting speed and feed rate increase. During the formation of the adhesive layer, the tool–chip interface temperature increases, the change rate of the cutting force and the tool wear rate increase, and adhesion, oxidation, and abrasive and delamination wear are generated on the tool surface. With the increase in temperature, the tool wear rate increases, the molten adhesive layer on the tool surface is accompanied by crack propagation, and adhesion wear, oxidation wear, and abrasive wear occur on the tool surface.
Mechanical Properties and Hydration Degree of Magnesium Potassium Phosphate Cement Modified by Sintered Silt Ash
Authors: Zhang Hongguang , Yang Wenya , Luo Qiling , Long Wu-Jian
Published: November 2023

The effective utilization rate of river-dredged silt was extremely low, and common disposal methods such as dumping it into the ocean have already threatened the ecological environment. To demonstrate that dredged silt can be used as a mineral admixture to modify magnesium potassium phosphate cement (MKPC), the mechanical properties and hydration degree of sintered silt ash (SSA)-blended MKPC in the early stage of hydration were studied systematically in this paper, with MKPC as the reference group. The mechanical experiment results showed that in the process of increasing the SSA content to 25%, the compressive strength first increased and then decreased. Among the samples, the compressive strength of cement aged by 1d and 3d with 15% content was the highest, which increased by 11.5% and 17.2%, respectively, compared with the reference group. The setting time experiment found that with the increase in SSA content, the hydration reaction rate of MKPC slowed down significantly. Its effect of delaying hydration was most obvious when the SSA content was 10–15%. The X-ray diffraction pattern showed that there was no large amount of new crystalline substances formed in the hydration product. The results obtained by scanning electron microscopy show that the microstructure tended to be denser and the hydration products tended to be plump when the SSA content was in the range of 0–15%. The non-contact electrical resistivity experiment showed that the addition of SSA delayed the early hydration of MKPC. Combined with the above experiment results, it was found that when the content of SSA was less than 15%, it not only delayed the early hydration of MKPC, but also deepened its hydration degree.
Up to Date Review of Nature-Inspired Superhydrophobic Textiles: Fabrication and Applications
Authors: Ge Haipei , Liu Yu , Liu Fujuan
Published: November 2023

In recent years, with the rapid development of the economy and great progress in science and technology, people have become increasingly concerned about their quality of life and physical health. In order to pursue a higher life, various functional and biomimetic textiles have emerged one after another and have been sought after by people. There are many animal and plant surfaces with special wettability in nature, and their unique “micro-nano structures” and low surface energy have attracted extensive attention from researchers. Researchers have prepared various textiles with superhydrophobic features by mimicking these unique structures. This review introduces the typical organisms with superhydrophobicity in nature, using lotus, water strider, and cicada as examples, and describes their morphological features and excellent superhydrophobicity. The theoretical model, commonly used raw materials, and modification technology of superhydrophobic surfaces are analyzed. In addition, the application areas and the current study status of superhydrophobic surfaces for textiles are also summarized. Finally, the development prospects for superhydrophobic textiles based on bionic technology are discussed.
Additive Manufacturing of Hot-Forming Dies Using Laser Powder Bed Fusion and Wire Arc Direct Energy Deposition Technologies
Authors: Alimov Artem , Sviridov Alexander , Sydow Benjamin , Jensch Felix , Härtel Sebastian
Published: November 2023

Additive technologies are now widely used for the production of complex precise parts and have high potential for the production of forming dies. In this work, hot-forming dies optimized for additive manufacturing were developed and produced with wire arc direct energy deposition (WA-DED) and laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) technologies. The concept of lightweight hot-forming dies with a 2D-lattice structure was developed, which reduced the weight of each die by 56%, from 14.2 kg to 6.1 kg, in production using L-PBF. Maraging/precipitation-hardened steel 17-4PH was used as an alternative to traditional hot-working steels with slightly lower mechanical properties and a much higher processability in the additive manufacturing process. The workability of the manufactured dies was confirmed by forging tests on an industrial screw press.
Controlling Nutritional Status Score as a Predictor for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbation Risk in Elderly Patients
Authors: Lo Buglio Aurelio , Scioscia Giulia , Bellanti Francesco , Tondo Pasquale , Soccio Piera , Natale Matteo Pio , Lacedonia Donato , Vendemiale Gianluigi
Published: November 2023

The Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score is a simple screening tool able to assess poor nutritional status as well as to predict clinical adverse outcomes in different clinical settings. No data are available in older patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study aimed to investigate the CONUT score as a predictor of frequent exacerbations. We retrospectively enrolled 222 patients aged 65 years or older, classified in two groups according to the number of exacerbations (or hospitalizations because AECOPD) during the previous year. The two groups were further divided according to low (<5) or high (≥5) CONUT scores. A total of 67.2% of frequent exacerbators had a high CONUT score. These patients exhibited a significantly higher CAT score, lower FEV1 percentage value, and higher prevalence of severe GOLD stages compared to those with low CONUT. Multivariate analysis showed that a CONUT score ≥ 5 was the best independent predictor (OR 20.740, p < 0.001) of the occurrence of ≥2 exacerbations (or 1 hospitalization) during the previous year. The CONUT score seemed to have a high prognostic value for frequent exacerbations for COPD in older patients. The predictive role of different CONUT score cut-off values needs to be validated in larger COPD populations in future multi-center, prospective clinical studies.
Application of Milk Exosomes for Musculoskeletal Health: Talking Points in Recent Outcomes
Authors: Kim Na-Hyung , Kim Juhae , Lee Joo-Yeon , Bae Hyeon-A , Kim Choon Young
Published: November 2023

Milk is a nutrient-rich food source, and among the various milks, breast milk is a nutrient source provided by mothers to newborns in many mammals. Exosomes are nano-sized membranous extracellular vesicles that play important roles in cell-to-cell communication. Exosomes originate from endogenous synthesis and dietary sources such as milk. Discovered through electron microscopy as floating vesicles, the existence of exosomes in human milk was confirmed owing to a density between 1.10 and 1.18 g/mL in a sucrose gradient corresponding to the known density of exosomes and detection of MHC classes I and II, CD63, CD81, and CD86 on the vesicles. To date, milk exosomes have been used for treating many diseases, including cancers, and are widely proposed as promising carriers for the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents. However, few studies on milk exosomes focus on geriatric health, especially sarcopenia and osteoporosis related to bone and muscle. Therefore, the present study focused on milk exosomes and their cargoes, which are potential candidates for dietary supplements, and when combined with drugs, they can be effective in treating musculoskeletal diseases. In this review, we introduce the basic concepts, including the definition, various sources, and cargoes of milk exosomes, and exosome isolation and characterization methods. Additionally, we review recent literature on the musculoskeletal system and milk exosomes. Since inflammation and oxidative stress underly musculoskeletal disorders, studies reporting the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of milk exosomes are also summarized. Finally, the therapeutic potential of milk exosomes in targeting muscle and bone health is proposed.
Seven-Month Vitamin D Deficiency Inhibits Gastric Epithelial Cell Proliferation, Stimulates Acid Secretion, and Differentially Alters Cell Lineages in the Gastric Glands
Authors: Sirajudeen Shaima , Shah Iltaf , Karam Sherif M. , Al Menhali Asma
Published: November 2023

Vitamin D (VD) deficiency can result from insufficiency of either light exposure or VD intake. We investigated the biological effects of VD deficiency for 7 months on the mouse gastric glands. Varying degrees of VD deficiency were induced in C57BL/6 mice by keeping them on standard diet with constant-dark conditions (SDD) or VD deficient diet with constant-dark conditions (VDD). Samples of serum, glandular stomach, and gastric contents were collected for LCMS/MS, RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and acid content measurements. Both SDD and VDD mice had a significant decline in 25OHVD metabolite, gastric epithelial cell proliferation, and mucin 6 gene expression. These effects were enhanced with the severity of VD deficiency from SDD to VDD. Besides and compared to the control group, SDD mice only displayed a significant increase in the number of zymogenic cells (p ≤ 0.0001) and high expression of the adiponectin (p ≤ 0.05), gastrin (p ≤ 0.0001), mucin 5AC (*** p ≤ 0.001) and the Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (**** p ≤ 0.0001). These phenotypes were unique to SDD gastric samples and not seen in the VDD or control groups. This study suggests that the body reacts differently to diverse VD deficiency sources, light or diet.
Adherence to Infant Feeding Guidelines in the First Foods New Zealand Study
Authors: Brown Kimberley J. , Beck Kathryn L. , von Hurst Pamela , Heath Anne-Louise , Taylor Rachael , Haszard Jillian , Daniels Lisa , Te Morenga Lisa , McArthur Jenny , Paul Rebecca , Jones Emily , Katiforis Ioanna , Rowan Madeleine , Casale Maria , McLean Neve , Cox Alice , Fleming Elizabeth , Bruckner Bailey , Jupiterwala Rosario , Wei Andrea , Conlon Cathryn
Published: November 2023

Infant feeding guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations to support optimal infant health, growth, and development, and exploring adherence to guidelines is a useful way of assessing diet quality. The aim of this study was to determine adherence to the recently updated Ministry of Health “Healthy Eating Guidelines for New Zealand Babies and Toddlers (0–2 years old)”. Data were obtained from First Foods New Zealand, a multicentre observational study of 625 infants aged 7.0–10.0 months. Caregivers completed two 24-h diet recalls and a demographic and feeding questionnaire. Nearly all caregivers (97.9%) initiated breastfeeding, 37.8% exclusively breastfed to around six months of age, and 66.2% were currently breastfeeding (mean age 8.4 months). Most caregivers met recommendations for solid food introduction, including appropriate age (75.4%), iron-rich foods (88.3%), puréed textures (80.3%), and spoon-feeding (74.1%). Infants consumed vegetables (63.2%) and fruit (53.9%) more frequently than grain foods (49.5%), milk and milk products (38.6%), and meat and protein-rich foods (31.8%). Most caregivers avoided inappropriate beverages (93.9%) and adding salt (76.5%) and sugar (90.6%). Our findings indicated that while most infants met the recommendations for the introduction of appropriate solid foods, the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding could be improved, indicating that New Zealand families may need more support.
A Metabolomics Study of Feces Revealed That a Disturbance of Selenium-Centered Metabolic Bioprocess Was Involved in Kashin–Beck Disease, an Osteoarthropathy Endemic to China
Authors: Wen Yan , Wang Bingyi , Shi Panxing , Chu Xiaoge , Shi Sirong , Yao Yao , Zhang Lu , Zhang Feng
Published: November 2023

Background: Kashin–Beck disease (KBD) is a distinct osteoarthropathy in China with an unclear pathogenesis. This study aims to explore whether perturbations in the intestine metabolome could be linked to KBD individuals. Methods: An investigation was conducted in KBD endemic villages and fecal samples were collected. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 75 subjects were enrolled for this study, including 46 KBD (including 19 Grade I KBD and 27 Grade II KBD) and 29 controls. Untargeted metabolomics analysis was performed on the platform of UHPLC-MS. PLS-DA and OPLS-DA were conducted to compare the groups and identify the differential metabolites (DMs). Pathway analysis was conducted on MPaLA platform to explore the functional implication of the DMs. Results: Metabolomics analysis showed that compared with the control group, KBD individuals have a total of 584 differential metabolites with dysregulated levels such as adrenic acid (log2FC = −1.87, VIP = 4.84, p = 7.63 × 10−7), hydrogen phosphate (log2FC = −2.57, VIP = 1.27, p = 1.02 × 10−3), taurochenodeoxycholic acid (VIP = 1.16, log2FC = −3.24, p = 0.03), prostaglandin E3 (VIP = 1.17, log2FC = 2.67, p = 5.61 × 10−4), etc. Pathway analysis revealed several significantly perturbed pathways associated with KBD such as selenium micronutrient network (Q value = 3.11 × 10−3, Wikipathways), metabolism of lipids (Q value = 8.43 × 10−4, Reactome), free fatty acid receptors (Q value = 3.99 × 10−3, Reactome), and recycling of bile acids and salts (Q value = 2.98 × 10−3, Reactome). Subgroup comparisons found a total of 267 differential metabolites were shared by KBD vs. control, KBD II vs. control, and KBD I vs. control, while little difference was found between KBD II and KBD I (only one differential metabolite detected). Conclusions: KBD individuals showed distinct metabolic features characterized by perturbations in lipid metabolism and selenium-related bioprocesses. Our findings suggest that the loss of nutrients metabolism balance in intestine was involved in KBD pathogenesis. Linking the nutrients metabolism (especially selenium and lipid) to KBD cartilage damage should be a future direction of KBD study.
No Changes in the Occurrence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in South-East Austria during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Zarfel Gernot , Schmidt Julia , Luxner Josefa , Grisold Andrea J.
Published: November 2023

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a universal threat. Once being well established in the healthcare setting, MRSA has undergone various epidemiological changes. This includes the emergence of more aggressive community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) and the occurrence of MRSA which have their origin in animal breeding, called livestock-associated MRSA (LA-MRSA). Emergence of new clones as well as changes in the occurrence of some clonal lineages also describes the fluctuating dynamic within the MRSA family. There is paucity of data describing the possible impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the MRSA dynamics. The aim of the study was the analysis of MRSA isolates in a three-year time period, including the pre-COVID-19 years 2018 and 2019 and the first year of the pandemic 2020. The analysis includes prevalence determination, antibiotic susceptibility testing, spa typing, and detection of genes encoding the PVL toxin. The MRSA rate remained constant throughout the study period. In terms of a dynamic within the MRSA family, only a few significant changes could be observed, but all except one occurred before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In summary, there was no significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on MRSA in Austria.