bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural changes in the wall of the small intestine of rats under the conditions of action of Nikolsky’s viper (Vipera berus nikolskii) poison
Authors: Maievskyi O. , Mudrak O. , Parfenyuk A. , Tkach Ye. , Tertychna O.
Published: November 2023

The components of poisons of various living species cause a wide range of effects and symptoms in the victim’s body. The mechanisms of damage to various organs and systems of animals and humans under the influence of specific components of their toxins remain open. The mechanisms of damage to various organs and systems of animals and humans under the influence of specific components of toxins of the venom of vipers remain open. Therefore, the study of the mechanisms of action of viper venom, as well as the development and implementation of a set of measures to reduce the negative impact of their poison on the mammalian organism, remain relevant. The study of the ecological and biological aspects of the violation of the homeostasis of the rat organism under the conditions of the action of viper venom is a complex and multifaceted process that covers various scientific areas. The aim of the study is to identify signs of damage to the small intestine of rats under the conditions of the poison of Nikolsky’s viper (Vipera berus nikolskii). The experiment was conducted on 20 white male rats. In the study, rats were divided into two groups — control and experimental. The poisoning was simulated by administering Nikolsky’s viper venom to rats of the experimental group intra-abdominally at a dose of ED50 of 0.972 μg/g. Histological preparations were examined under the SEO SCAN light microscope; the images were processed using the Vision CCD Camera with an existing system for displaying images on a computer monitor. It was found that severe intoxication of the body with the venom of the Nikolsky’s viper causes extensive destructive-dystrophic changes in the wall of the empty intestine, along with significant stromalvascular disorders. Poisonous hemotoxins increase vascular wall permeability and change intravascular coagulation processes, which leads to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DVS syndrome) and irreversible degeneration of small bowel structures in experiment.
Reviewing of Utopia as a Product of Great Transition Age
Authors: Disci Tolga
Published: November 2023

Books are products of individuals known as author, but it is also a product of society and social structures of its era. Utopia, as the first back called like that has a really important role on thoughts of humanity about positive future expectations. It is surprisingly fascinating even for today’s people. It was a work of a great statesman and philosopher of a great society which was in a great revolutionary age. This great accumulation built up this work. However, changes include dualities, dualities carve out discrepancies in human mind. While examining the work which inspired plenty of political scientific works that tries to build a better future, we also try to examine the discrepancies of More and between its work.
Profil Ekosistem Terumbu Karang di Intertidal Pantai Balekambang, Kabupaten Malang, Jawa Timur
Authors: Alwan Alauddin Syah
Published: November 2023

Kekhawatiran dan kerentanan dari dampak pesatnya pertumbuhan infrastruktur di kawasan Pantai Balekambang, Kabupaten Malang dapat memicu terjadinya kerusakan ekosistem terumbu karang yang ada terutama pada zona intertidal. Hal ini dimungkinkan karena tidak diikuti oleh kesadaran dan pemahaman secara arif dan bijaksana oleh masyarakat di sekitarnya terhadap pelestarian lingkungan. Penelitian bertujuan untuk menentukan status terumbu karang, mengidentifikasi karang yang hidup, dan mengukur nilai keanekaragaman spesies karang di zona intertidal Pantai Balekambang, Kabupaten Malang, Jawa Timur. Penelitian menggunakan metode survei dengan bantuan alat Underwater Photo Transect (UPT), data diolah dengan perangkat lunak Coral Point Count with Excel Extension (CPCe). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa prosentase penutupan karang bervariasi yaitu pada kisaran 9,13%-21,53%, sehingga termasuk dalam kategori rusak dengan sub-kategori buruk. Identifikasi spesies karang di stasiun 1 (BLCK01) adalah Favites spp., Gonioastrea spp., dan Galaxea sp., di stasiun 2 (BLCK02) ditemukan Favites spp., Gonioastrea spp., Platygyra sp.. Pocillopora spesicosa, dan Porites sp. Pada stasiun 3 (BLCK03) telah diidentifikasi spesies karang Favites spp., Gonioastrea spp., Platygyra sp., Acropora spp., Pocillopra spesicosa, dan Porites sp. Nilai keanekaragaman spesies karang di pantai ini termasuk dalam kategori rendah, yaitu 1,71-1,97.
Diversity distribution, land used type of small and medium-sized mammals in ghamot national park the state biosphere reserve-Neelum, Pakistan
Authors: Jahangeer Muhammad , Awan Muhammad Siddique , Minhas Riaz Aziz
Published: November 2023

This research aimed to examine the impact of diversity distributions, seasonal variations, and land use types on the richness and diversity of native small mammal communities in Ghamot National Park, Neelum Valley, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. The study employed five different land-use types and employed various methods, including live traps and indirect evidence, to sample small mammals during both summer and winter seasons. The study compared population numbers and species composition across different study sites and seasons.The findings were based on data from three sampling methods, which resulted in a total of 534 specimens representing 14 species from 8 families. The family Muridae stood out as dominant, with 4 species (28.57%) of rodents. During the summer, the highest number of individuals was observed in the forest zone (n = 171), whereas during the winter season, the highest abundance was recorded in the riparian zone (n = 128). In terms of species richness, the riparian zone (n = 9) and agricultural crop zone (n = 9) had the highest values during the summer season. The highest Shannon diversity values (3.48) were found in riparian and forest habitats, scrubland, and dense vegetation, while the lowest biodiversity (H = 0.77) was observed in high alpine pastures and wetland habitats. Notably, no significant differences were observed between the two seasons (summer and winter) in terms of species richness and abundances.Further analysis using a one-way-ANOSIM test via the Bray-Curtis methods indicated a significant difference (R = 0.02144; p = 0.2873) among various survey locations and land types. Specifically, four habitat types—dense forest, riparian zone, scrubland, and dense vegetation—displayed significant correlations with each other (p < 0.05).
Quantitative measurement of transthyretin mistargeting by proximity labeling and parallel reaction monitoring
Authors: Lyu Ziqi , Genereux Joseph C.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Proximity labeling is a powerful approach for characterizing subcellular proteomes. We recently demonstrated that proximity labeling can be used to identify mistrafficking of secretory proteins, such as occurs during pre-emptive quality control (pre-QC) following endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. This assay depends on protein quantification by immunoblotting and densitometry, which sometimes suffers from poor sensitivity.

Methods: Here, we integrate parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) mass spectrometry to enable a more quantitative platform and assess how chemical ER stressors impact pre-QC of the model secretory protein transthyretin in HEK293T cells.

Results and Discussion: We find that some drug treatments affect labeling efficiency, which can be controlled for by normalizing to APEX2 autolabeling. While some chemical ER stress inducers including Brefeldin A and thapsigargin induce pre-QC, tunicamycin and dithiothreitol do not, indicating ER stress alone is not sufficient. This finding contrasts with the canonical model of pre-QC induction, and establishes the utility of our platform.
Association of genes in hereditary metabolic diseases with diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment outcomes in gastric cancer
Authors: Li Yiping , Li Xiaoqin , Yang Yufei , Qiao Xuehan , Tao Qing , Peng Chen , Han Miao , Dong Kebin , Xu Min , Wang Deqiang , Han Gaohua
Published: November 2023

Background

Aberrant metabolism is a major hallmark of cancers and hereditary diseases. Genes associated with inborn metabolic errors may also play roles in cancer development. This study evaluated the overall impact of these genes on gastric cancer (GC).

Methods

In total, 162 genes involved in 203 hereditary metabolic diseases were identified in the Human Phenotype Ontology database. Clinical and multi-omic data were acquired from the GC cohort of the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University and other published cohorts. A 4-gene and 32-gene signature was established for diagnosis and prognosis or therapeutic prediction, respectively, and corresponding abnormal metabolism scores (AMscores) were calculated.

Results

The diagnostic AMscore showed high sensitivity (0.88-1.00) and specificity (0.89-1.00) to distinguish between GC and paired normal tissues, with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) ranging from 0.911 to 1.000 in four GC cohorts. The prognostic or predictive AMscore was an independent predictor of overall survival (OS) in five GC cohorts and a predictor of the OS and disease-free survival benefit of postoperative chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy in one GC cohort with such data. The AMscore adversely impacts immune biomarkers, including tumor mutation burden, tumor neoantigen burden, microsatellite instability, programmed death-ligand 1 protein expression, tumor microenvironment score, T cell receptor clonality, and immune cell infiltration detected by multiplex immunofluorescence staining. The AUC of the AMscore for predicting immunotherapy response ranging from 0.780 to 0.964 in four cohorts involving GC, urothelial cancer, melanoma, and lung cancer. The objective response rates in the low and high AMscore subgroups were 78.6% and 3.2%, 40.4% and 7%, 52.6% and 0%, and 72.7% and 0%, respectively (all p<0.001). In cohorts with survival data, a high AMscore was hazardous for OS or progression-free survival, with hazard ratios ranged from 5.79 to 108.59 (all p<0.001). Importantly, the AMscore significantly improved the prediction of current immune biomarkers for both response and survival, thus redefining the advantaged and disadvantaged immunotherapy populations.

Conclusions

Signatures based on genes associated with hereditary metabolic diseases and their corresponding scores could be used to guide the diagnosis and treatment of GC. Therefore, further validation is required.
Dynamic processes of mindfulness-based alterations in pain perception
Authors: Lu Chen , Moliadze Vera , Nees Frauke
Published: November 2023

Mindfulness-based processes have been shown to enhance attention and related behavioral responses, including analgesia, which is discussed as an effective method in the context of pain interventions. In the present review, we introduce the construct of mindfulness, delineating the concepts, factors, and processes that are summarized under this term and might serve as relevant components of the underlying mechanistic pathways in the field of pain. We also discuss how differences in factors such as definitions of mindfulness, study design, and strategies in mindfulness-based attention direction may need to be considered when putting the findings from previous studies into a whole framework. In doing so, we capitalize on a potential dynamic process model of mindfulness-based analgesia. In this respect, the so-called mindfulness-based analgesia may initially result from improved cognitive regulation strategies, while at later stages of effects may be driven by a reduction of interference between both cognitive and affective factors. With increasing mindfulness practice, pathways and mechanisms of mindfulness analgesia may change dynamically, which could result from adaptive coping. This is underlined by the fact that the neural mechanism of mindfulness analgesia is manifested as increased activation in the ACC and aINS at the beginner level while increased activation in the pINS and reduced activation in the lPFC at the expert level.
Linagliptin and secoisolariciresinol diglucoside attenuate hyperlipidemia and cardiac hypertrophy induced by a high-methionine diet in rats via suppression of hyperhomocysteinemia-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Jalal Israa A. , Elkhoely Abeer , Mohamed Shimaa K. , Ahmed Amany A. E.
Published: November 2023

Background: Cardiac hypertrophy (CH) is one of the contributing causes of morbidity and mortality. Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is one of the diseases which may predispose hyperlipidemia and CH. Linagliptin (Lina) and secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) are known to alleviate a variety of illnesses by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

Aim: This study aimed to study the effect of HHcy on cardiac tissues, with a special focus on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress as a mainstay pathophysiological pathway. In addition, our study examined the protective effect of Lina, SDG, and their combination against HHcy-induced hyperlipidemia and CH in rats.

Methods: Seventy-five male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups, and for 60 days, the following regimen was administered: Group I: rats received distilled water; Group II: rats received methionine (MET) (2 g/kg/day, p.o.); groups III and IV: rats received Lina (3 mg/kg/day, p.o.) and SDG (20 mg/kg/day, p.o.), respectively, followed by MET (2 g/kg/day, p.o.); Group V: rats received Lina and SDG, followed by MET (2 g/kg/day, p.o.).

Results: Pretreatment with Lina, SDG, and their combination showed a significant decrease in serum levels of HHcy and an improved lipid profile compared to the MET group. Moreover, both drugs improved cardiac injury, as evidenced by the substantial improvement in ECG parameters, morphological features of the cardiac muscle, and reduced serum levels of cardiac markers. Additionally, Lina and SDG significantly attenuated cardiac oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Furthermore, Lina, SDG, and their combination remarkably downregulated the enhanced expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers, GRP78, PERK, ATF-4, CHOP, NF-κB, and SREBP1c compared to the MET-group.

Conclusion: Lina and SDG showed cardioprotective effects against HHcy-induced heart hypertrophy and hyperlipidemia in rats.
Concentration of Potentially Toxic Elements in Farmed Fallow Deer Antlers Depending on Diet and Age
Authors: Tajchman Katarzyna , Ukalska-Jaruga Aleksandra , Ceacero Fracisco , Janiszewski Pawel , Pecio Monika
Published: November 2023

Deer antlers, usually harvested annually on a farm, are an accessible material used to determine the exposition to potentially toxic elements, PTEs, during growth. Moreover, the study of antlers from animals of different ages allows the assessment of long-term exposition to these elements. The aim of the study was to analyze the concentration of eight potentially toxic elements (Cd, Pb, As, Ba, Ni, Sr, La, Ce) in individual positions of the antlers (first, second, and third position, corresponding to the stages of development and life of these animals) and in the food that the animals consumed during the growth of individual antler fragments, depending on the age of the farmed fallow deer (Dama dama). The mineral composition of samples was analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The analysis included 31 male deer aged 2–8 years old. The average concentration of Pb, Ba, and Ni was higher in the second position of the antler, and As, La, and Ce in the third position. In addition, the oldest individuals showed a higher Cd, Pb, and As concentration in the third position. A significant positive relationship was found between the age of animals and accumulation of As (r = 0.582, p < 0.05), as well as Ba and Sr (r = −0.534, r = −0.644 at p < 0.05, respectively). The average content of Ba and Sr also significantly negatively depended on body mass and antler mass stags (r = −0.436, r = −0.515 at p < 0.05, respectively). Cd concentration in feed was significantly higher in June compared to winter, spring, and later summer (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the concentration of Ba in food was significantly higher in spring and winter than in early and later summer (p < 0.05). An increase in the PTEs in the pasture determined the concentration of these components in fallow deer antlers.
A Nanostructured Protein Filtration Device for Possible Use in the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease—Concept and Feasibility after In Vivo Tests
Authors: Schreiner Thomas Gabriel , Menéndez-González Manuel , Adam Maricel , Popescu Bogdan Ovidiu , Szilagyi Andrei , Stanciu Gabriela Dumitrita , Tamba Bogdan Ionel , Ciobanu Romeo Cristian
Published: November 2023

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD), along with other neurodegenerative disorders, remains a challenge for clinicians, mainly because of the incomplete knowledge surrounding its etiology and inefficient therapeutic options. Considering the central role of amyloid beta (Aβ) in the onset and evolution of AD, Aβ-targeted therapies are among the most promising research directions. In the context of decreased Aβ elimination from the central nervous system in the AD patient, the authors propose a novel therapeutic approach based on the “Cerebrospinal Fluid Sink Therapeutic Strategy” presented in previous works. This article aims to demonstrate the laborious process of the development and testing of an effective nanoporous ceramic filter, which is the main component of an experimental device capable of filtrating Aβ from the cerebrospinal fluid in an AD mouse model. Methods: First, the authors present the main steps needed to create a functional filtrating nanoporous ceramic filter, which represents the central part of the experimental filtration device. This process included synthesis, functionalization, and quality control of the functionalization, which were performed via various spectroscopy methods and thermal analysis, selectivity measurements, and a biocompatibility assessment. Subsequently, the prototype was implanted in APP/PS1 mice for four weeks, then removed, and the nanoporous ceramic filter was tested for its filtration capacity and potential structural damages. Results: In applying the multi-step protocol, the authors developed a functional Aβ-selective filtration nanoporous ceramic filter that was used within the prototype. All animal models survived the implantation procedure and had no significant adverse effects during the 4-week trial period. Post-treatment analysis of the nanoporous ceramic filter showed significant protein loading, but no complete clogging of the pores. Conclusions: We demonstrated that a nanoporous ceramic filter-based system that filtrates Aβ from the cerebrospinal fluid is a feasible and safe treatment modality in the AD mouse model. The presented prototype has a functional lifespan of around four weeks, highlighting the need to develop advanced nanoporous ceramic filters with anti-biofouling properties to ensure the long-term action of this therapy.
Job Satisfaction in Remote Work: The Role of Positive Spillover from Work to Family and Work–Life Balance
Authors: García-Salirrosas Elizabeth Emperatriz , Rondon-Eusebio Rafael Fernando , Geraldo-Campos Luis Alberto , Acevedo-Duque Ángel
Published: November 2023

The objective of this research is to propose and validate a theoretical model that explains job satisfaction in remote work influenced by family-supportive supervisory behaviors (FSSBs) and, in addition, to evaluate the mediating role of work-to-family positive spillover (WFPS) and work–life balance (WLB) in this influence. A non-experimental cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered survey to a sample of 396 teleworkers in Lima, Peru. The hypothesized model was analyzed using PLS-SEM based structural equation modeling. The results show that FSSB has a direct effect on both job satisfaction in remote work and WFPS and WLB. In addition, it shows that WFPS and WLB have positive effects on job satisfaction in remote work. Also, the results show that WFPS and WLB have a mediating role in the influence of FSSB on job satisfaction in remote work. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of supervisor behavior, positive work-to-family spillover, and work–life balance in remote workers’ job satisfaction. It is suggested that companies adopt policies and practices that encourage work–life balance as well as a favorable supervisory environment.
Incorporation of Steel Fibers to Enhance Performance of Sustainable Concrete Made with Waste Brick Aggregates: Experimental and Regression-Based Approaches
Authors: Yooprasertchai Ekkachai , Bahrami Alireza , Saingam Panumas , Hussain Qudeer , Ejaz Ali , Joyklad Panuwat
Published: November 2023

Each year, an enormous amount of construction waste is produced worldwide. The reuse of construction waste in construction works is a sustainable solution. The present research work utilized recycled brick aggregates in the production of concrete. The resulting concrete exhibited substandard splitting tensile, flexural, and compressive properties. Steel fibers were used to improve these substandard properties of recycled brick aggregate concrete. The volume fractions of 1%, 2%, and 3% for steel fibers were mixed in concrete, whereas recycled brick aggregates were obtained from solid fired-clay bricks, hollow fired-clay bricks, and cement–clay interlocking bricks. The compressive strength was enhanced by up to 35.53% and 66.67% for natural and recycled brick aggregate concrete, respectively. Strengthened flexural specimens demonstrated up to 8765.69% increase in the energy dissipation. Specimens strengthened with steel fibers showed substantially improved splitting tensile, flexural, and compressive responses. Separate equations were proposed to predict the peak compressive strength, strain at peak compressive strength, elastic modulus, and post-peak modulus of recycled brick aggregate concrete. The proposed regression equations were utilized in combination with an existing compressive stress–strain model. A close agreement was observed between experimental and predicted compressive stress–strain curves of recycled brick aggregate concrete.
Flexible Finely and Directly Patternable Liquid Metal Electrodes via Selective Surface Wetting Technique
Authors: Park Seong Ju , Yang Chanwoo
Published: November 2023

Eutectic gallium–indium (EGaIn) is an ideal material for preparing flexible electrodes, but its high surface tension poses a challenge during deposition and patterning. Herein, we propose a laser-induced selective surface wetting technique (SSWT) to enable the facile and straightforward fabrication of flexible finely and directly patternable EGaIn liquid metal electrodes. Our proposed technique selectively controls the wettability of EGaIn by establishing a perfluorinated self-assembled monolayer on a zinc oxide nanorod array to impart superhydrophobicity and then inducing specific sites on the hydrophilized surface by ultraviolet (UV) pulsed laser ablation, thereby enabling fine patterning (linewidth, ~50 μm). Surface analysis of the effect of laser ablation was also performed to elucidate the mechanism of SSWT. The patterned EGaIn liquid metal electrode fabricated by SSWT exhibited superior flexibility, with a resistance change (ΔR/R0) of only 18.6% compared with a Ag thin film electrode, which showed a dramatic increase in ΔR/R0 to nearly 500% after 50,000 folding cycles at a peak strain of 2.5%. The simple and easily implementable liquid metal patterning technique proposed in this study may potentially be applied in the field of wearable and stretchable electronics, which requires extreme flexibility.
Unraveling the Neurological Complexity of Polyneuropathy, Organomegaly, Endocrinopathy, Monoclonal Protein, and Skin Changes Syndrome: A Report of a Challenging Case of a Young Woman and Cutting-Edge Advancements in the Field
Authors: Furciniti Gioconda , Casalino Giuseppe , Lo Russo Francesco M. , Bolli Niccolò , Meneri Megi , Comi Giacomo P. , Corti Stefania P. , Velardo Daniele
Published: November 2023

POEMS syndrome—characterized by polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes—is an uncommon and complex paraneoplastic disorder encompassing a diverse array of symptoms. Here we report the challenging case of a 34-year-old female who sought medical attention at the emergency department due to distal lower limb weakness. She was breastfeeding her first child at that time. Her condition rapidly deteriorated, making it difficult for her to perform simple tasks independently. Initially, she struggled with activities like jumping or climbing stairs. Eventually, her ability to walk was also compromised. These symptoms underscored the swift evolution of her polyneuropathy. Nerve conduction studies and electromyography confirmed a diagnosis of mixed demyelinating and axonal polyneuropathy. Subsequent investigations, including bone marrow biopsy and immunochemistry testing, revealed a plasma cell disorder characterized by lambda monoclonal gammopathy, along with elevated levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF > 8000 pg/mL). This pivotal finding led to the diagnosis of POEMS syndrome, prompting the initiation of antineoplastic therapy (daratumumab-lenalidomide-dexamethasone) to manage this condition. An autologous cell transplantation was planned. The rarity of POEMS syndrome and its diverse clinical manifestations often lead to an incorrect or delayed diagnosis. Our case underscores the importance of considering this syndrome in patients presenting with acute or subacute polyneuropathy, even if the patients are young. In conclusion, this case elucidates the diagnostic complexities of POEMS syndrome, emphasizing the integral role of comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluations and the potential influence of increased VEGF as a diagnostic key element and possible therapeutic target.
Phosphorus Rather than Nitrogen Addition Changed Soil Cyanobacterial Community in a Tropical Secondary Forest of South China
Authors: Zou Xiangbo , Jiang Xinyu , Chen Chuangting , Kuang Cao , Ye Ji , Qin Shiwei , Cheng Jiong , Liu Guangli , Wang Faming , Yu Shiqin
Published: November 2023

Soil cyanobacteria in tropical forests is understudied despite its important role in soil biochemical process and plant growth. Under a nitrogen (N) deposition background in tropical forests, it is important to learn how soil cyanobacterial communities respond to N deposition and whether phosphorus (P) mediated this response. A fully two-factor (N and P additions) factorial design with four blocks (replicates), each including a 12 × 12 m plot per treatment (Control, +N, +P, and +NP) were established in a tropical secondary forest in 2009. In July of 2022, soil cyanobacteria at 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm depths in the experimental site were collected and analyzed using a metagenomic method. The impact of N and P additions on soil cyanobacteria remained consistent across the different soil depths, even though there was a significant contrast between the two layers. The effect of N addition on soil cyanobacteria did not significantly interact with P addition. N addition increased soil N availability and decreased soil pH but did not significantly affect the soil cyanobacterial community. In contrast, P addition increased soil P availability and soil pH, but decreased soil N availability and substantially changed the soil cyanobacterial community. P addition significantly decreased the abundance of soil cyanobacteria, especially abundant ones. P addition also increased cyanobacterial species richness and Shannon’s diversity, which might be explained by the decline in dominant species and the emergence of new species as nestedness and indicator species analyses suggest. We concluded that (1) soil cyanobacteria in tropical forests exhibits a greater sensitivity to elevated P availability compared to N; (2) an increase in soil P supply may mitigate the advantage held by dominant species, thus facilitating the growth of other species and leading to alterations in the soil cyanobacterial community. This study improves our understanding on how soil cyanobacterial communities in tropical forest responds to N and P addition.
The Effect of Microwave Radiation on the Solidification of C-S-H Gels: Its Influence on the Solidified Cement Mixtures
Authors: Průša David , Šťastník Stanislav , Šuhajda Karel , Svobodová Kateřina , Žajdlík Tomáš , Hobzová Klára , Novotný Miloslav
Published: November 2023

The present paper deals with the properties of hardened cement mixtures that have been exposed to microwave radiation. Microwaves fall under electromagnetic waves (EMW), and the main reason for using EMW radiation is to accelerate the drying of concrete as well as to reduce the time required to obtain the handling strength after it is removed from the mould. This paper is divided into two main parts. In the first part, three sets of cement samples were made. One set of samples solidified naturally in air and the second and third sets of samples were exposed to EMW radiation, with different exposure times for each. The solidification was then stopped, and the representation of the major minerals was experimentally determined. The second part of the experiment focuses on the properties of the hardened cement mixtures, both in terms of strength and physical properties. The experiment was carried out on two sets of samples. Each mixture was exposed to EMW radiation, the main differences being the exposure time and the position of the samples relative to the EMW generator. The aim of the experiments is to determine the resulting mechanical properties of the samples in comparison with those that were subjected to normal solidification in air. The data from these experiments suggest that microwave radiation can be used to accelerate the curing of concrete specimens, obtaining the handling strength in a relatively short time, but a reduction in the resulting strength can be expected compared to the reference specimens.
Correlations between Mental Health, Physical Activity, and Body Composition in American College Students after the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown
Authors: Torres Luis , Caciula Manuela C. , Tomoiaga Alin S. , Gugu-Gramatopol Carmen
Published: November 2023

Restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic had forced American college students to significantly reduce their daily energy expenditure and increase their sedentary behaviors, thus presumably increasing mental health symptoms, decreasing physical activity levels, and enhancing the promotion of unhealthy eating habits. This study aimed to explore the correlations between mental health symptoms, physical activity levels, and body composition in college students in the years following the pandemic, focusing on the lingering effects of lockdown measures. American college students completed pre-existing, well-validated surveys for both mental health (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) and physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire—Long Form). Body composition was assessed in person with the use of an Inbody 570 device. Of the 90 American college students (M age = 22.52 ± 4.54, 50 females) who participated in this study, depressive and anxious symptom scores consistent with heightened symptomatology were reported by 58% of the participants (N = 52), moderate borderline symptomatology by 17% (N = 15), and asymptomatology by 25% (N = 23). In regard to physical activity, 79% (N = 71) of the students were highly physically active, 18% (N = 16) were moderately active, and 3% (N = 3) reported low levels of physical activity. Additionally, 46% (N = 41) of the students maintained an unhealthy body fat percentage based on the World Health Organization recommendations. Strong, significant relationships were found between anxiety and depression symptomatology and body fat percentage (positive correlation, p = 0.003) and between anxiety and depression symptomatology and skeletal muscle mass (negative correlation, p = 0.015), with said symptomatology increasing with added body fat and decreasing with added skeletal muscle mass. The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown restrictions affected American college students through an increase in mental health symptomatology and a deterioration in overall body composition.
Biomaterials in Concrete for Engineering Applications: A Bibliometric Review
Authors: Jaramillo Haidee Yulady , Vasco-Echeverri Oscar Hernan , Moreno-Pacheco Luis Alfonso , García-León Ricardo Andrés
Published: November 2023

The incorporation of biomaterials into concrete for engineering applications has gained significant attention in recent years due to its potential to enhance both the mechanical properties and sustainability of construction materials. This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis (BA) to examine the state of the research on utilizing biomaterials in concrete through the analysis of scientific production considering the information in the Scopus database. The BA provides insights into this interdisciplinary field’s evolution, trends, and global research landscape. Key aspects explored include the types of biomaterials employed, their impacts on concrete properties, and the environmental benefits associated with their masonry use. R-Software was used to analyze the scientific growth and topics (BA) in the field of biomaterials in concrete for industrial applications. The results exposed that biomaterials in concrete related to scientific production represent a total amount of 1558 documents published by 489 journals and 4521 authors, which represents an annual rate of 20.81% higher than other related topics, with India, the United Kingdom, and China being the most representative countries. Finally, this work exposes the growing interest in sustainable construction practices and the promising future of biomaterial-infused concrete in the engineering sector, seeking to advance the knowledge and application of biomaterials in concrete technology.
Exploring the Association Linking Head Position and Sleep Architecture to Motor Impairment in Parkinson’s Disease: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Gnarra Oriella , Calvello Carmen , Schirinzi Tommaso , Beozzo Francesca , De Masi Claudia , Spanetta Matteo , Fernandes Mariana , Grillo Piergiorgio , Cerroni Rocco , Pierantozzi Mariangela , Bassetti Claudio L. A. , Mercuri Nicola Biagio , Stefani Alessandro , Liguori Claudio
Published: November 2023

Patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) tend to sleep more frequently in the supine position and less often change head and body position during sleep. Besides sleep quality and continuity, head and body positions are crucial for glymphatic system (GS) activity. This pilot study evaluated sleep architecture and head position during each sleep stage in idiopathic PD patients without cognitive impairment, correlating sleep data to patients’ motor and non-motor symptoms (NMS). All patients underwent the multi-night recordings, which were acquired using the Sleep Profiler headband. Sleep parameters, sleep time in each head position, and percentage of slow wave activity (SWA) in sleep, stage 3 of non-REM sleep (N3), and REM sleep in the supine position were extracted. Lastly, correlations with motor impairment and NMS were performed. Twenty PD patients (65.7 ± 8.6 y.o, ten women) were included. Sleep architecture did not change across the different nights of recording and showed the prevalence of sleep performed in the supine position. In addition, SWA and N3 were more frequently in the supine head position, and N3 in the supine decubitus correlated with REM sleep performed in the same position; this latter correlated with the disease duration (correlation coefficient = 0.48, p-value = 0.03) and motor impairment (correlation coefficient = 0.53, p-value = 0.02). These preliminary results demonstrated the importance of monitoring sleep in PD patients, supporting the need for preventive strategies in clinical practice for maintaining the lateral head position during the crucial sleep stages (SWA, N3, REM), essential for permitting the GS function and activity and ensuring brain health.
Finite Element Analysis of Normal and Dysplastic Hip Joints in Children
Authors: Incze-Bartha Zsuzsánna , Incze-Bartha Sandor , Simon Szabó Zsuzsánna , Feier Andrei Marian , Vunvulea Vlad , Nechifor-Boilă Ioan Alin , Pastorello Ylenia , Szasz Dezso , Dénes Lóránd
Published: November 2023

From a surgical point of view, quantification cannot always be achieved in the developmental deformity in hip joints, but finite element analysis can be a helpful tool to compare normal joint architecture with a dysplastic counterpart. CT scans from the normal right hip of an 8-year-old boy and the dysplastic left hip of a 12-year-old girl were used to construct our geometric models. In a three-dimensional model construction, distinctions were made between the cortical bone, trabecular bone, cartilage, and contact nonlinearities of the hip joint. The mathematical model incorporated the consideration of the linear elastic and isotropic properties of bony tissue in children, separately for the cortical bone, trabecular bone, and articular cartilage. Hexahedral elements were used in Autodesk Inventor software version 2022 (“Ren”) for finite element analysis of the two hips in the boundary conditions of the single-leg stance. In the normal hip joint on the cartilaginous surfaces of the acetabulum, we found a kidney-shaped stress distribution in a 471,672 mm2 area. The measured contact pressure values were between 3.0 and 4.3 MPa. In the dysplastic pediatric hip joint on a patch of 205,272 mm2 contact area, the contact pressure values reached 8.5 MPa. Furthermore, the acetabulum/femur head volume ratio was 20% higher in the dysplastic hip joint. We believe that the knowledge gained from the normal and dysplastic pediatric hip joints can be used to develop surgical treatment methods and quantify and compare the efficiency of different surgical treatments used in children with hip dysplasia.
The Foundational Components of Self-Regulating (Sustainable) Economies and Ecosystems: Implications for Green Infrastructure and Economic Restoration
Authors: Giordanengo John H.
Published: November 2023

The current global economic system undermines sustainability efforts such as green infrastructure and circularity, while jeopardizing social and environmental values in rich and poor countries alike. These chronic failures stem in part from a poor understanding of an economy’s structure. While many scientists view economic and ecological systems as homologous to one another (i.e., similar structures and processes), an understanding of the foundational components of these systems is lacking. A primary objective of this paper is to refine the understanding of those foundational components, and their interactions. Dozens of ecological processes have functional equivalents in economies, such as succession, evolution, symbiosis, and competition. The central hypothesis here is that three components—diversity, energy, and trade (i.e., resource transfers)—constitute the foundational components of self-regulating economies and ecosystems. A secondary hypothesis is that the interaction of these components regionally, rather than at a global scale, is a limiting factor to the long-term success of sustainability elements such as circularity, green infrastructure, and others. This article evaluates diversity, energy, and trade relative to measures such as net productivity, stability, resource-use efficiency, and biomass (i.e., capital) accumulation. In closing, the concept of economic restoration is summarized, as informed by principles of ecological restoration.
A Study of Traveling Wave Structures and Numerical Investigations into the Coupled Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation Using Advanced Mathematical Techniques
Authors: Alharbi Taghread , Alharbi Abdulghani
Published: November 2023

This article explores adapted mathematical methods to solve the coupled nonlinear Schrödinger (C-NLS) equation through analytical and numerical methods. To obtain exact solutions for the (C-NLS) equation, we utilize the improved modified, extended tanh-function method. By separating the Schrödinger equation into real and imaginary parts, we can obtain four coupled equations, which we then analyze using the generalized tanh method to extract exact solutions. This system of equations is essential for understanding the behavior of quantum systems and has various applications in quantum mechanics. We obtain an analytical solution and demonstrate numerical solutions using implicit finite difference. Studies have shown that this scheme is second-order in space and time, and the von Neumann stability analysis confirms its unconditional stability. We introduce the comparison between numerical and exact solutions.
Mathematical and Stability Analysis of Dengue–Malaria Co-Infection with Disease Control Strategies
Authors: Butt Azhar Iqbal Kashif , Imran Muhammad , McKinney Brett A. , Batool Saira , Aftab Hassan
Published: November 2023

Historically, humans have been infected by mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever and malaria fever. There is an urgent need for comprehensive methods in the prevention, control, and awareness of the hazards posed by dengue and malaria fever to public health. We propose a new mathematical model for dengue and malaria co-infection with the aim of comprehending disease dynamics better and developing more efficient control strategies in light of the threat posed to public health by co-infection. The proposed mathematical model comprises four time-dependent vector population classes (SEIdIm) and seven host population classes (SEIdImIdmTR). First, we show that the proposed model is well defined by proving that it is bounded and positive in a feasible region. We further identify the equilibrium states of the model, including disease-free and endemic equilibrium points, where we perform stability analysis at equilibrium points. Then, we determine the reproduction number R0 to measure the level of disease containment. We perform a sensitivity analysis of the model’s parameters to identify the most critical ones for potential control strategies. We also prove that the proposed model is well posed. Finally, the article examines three distinct co-infection control measures, including spraying or killing vectors, taking precautions for one’s own safety, and reducing the infectious contact between the host and vector populations. The control analysis of the proposed model reveals that all control parameters are effective in disease control. However, self-precaution is the most effective and accessible method, and the reduction of the vector population through spraying is the second most effective strategy to implement. Disease eradication is attainable as the vector population decreases. The effectiveness of the implemented strategies is also illustrated with the help of graphs.
Hybrid Lattice Boltzmann Model for Nonlinear Diffusion and Image Denoising
Authors: Ilyin Oleg
Published: November 2023

In the present paper, a novel approach for image denoising based on the numerical solution to the nonlinear diffusion equation is proposed. The Perona–Malik-type equation is solved by employing a hybrid lattice Boltzmann model with five discrete velocities. In this method, the regions with large values of the diffusion coefficient are modeled with the lattice Boltzmann scheme for which hyper-viscous defects are reduced, while other regions are modeled with the conventional lattice Boltzmann model. The new method allows us to solve Perona–Malik-type equations with relatively large time steps and good accuracy. In numerical experiments, the removal of salt and pepper, speckle and Gaussian noise is considered. For salt and pepper noise, the novel scheme yields better peak signal-to-noise ratios in image denoising problems compared to the standard lattice Boltzmann approach. For certain non-small values of time steps, the novel model shows better results for speckle and Gaussian noise on average.
Effect of Combination Therapy with Ezetimibe and Statins versus Statin Monotherapy on Carotid Intima-Media Thickness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Kwon Ryuk Jun , Cho Young Hye , Park Eun Ju , Lee Youngin , Lee Sae Rom , Choi Jung In , Lee Sang Yeoup , Son Soo Min
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Lipid-lowering agents such as ezetimibe are recommended in uncontrolled hyperlipidemia for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a surrogate marker of atherosclerosis and a predictor of cardiovascular and cerebral events. The effects of ezetimibe on CIMT have been inconsistently reported. The aim of this meta-analysis is to compare the effects of ezetimibe/statin and statin alone therapies on CIMT reduction. Materials and Methods: The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane library databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published prior to 26 January 2023 with the MeSH keywords ‘Ezetimibe’ and ‘Carotid Intima-Media Thickness’. The results were presented as standard mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals using the random-effect model method, and heterogeneity was assessed. Subgroup, meta-regression, and sensitivity analyses were conducted. Results: Five RCTs with 642 participants were included. CIMT reduction was not significantly different between the ezetimibe/statin and statin alone groups. However, in subgroup analyses, CIMT in the ezetimibe/statin group was significantly reduced in patients with non-familial hypercholesterolemia (SMD: −0.34 mm and p = 0.002) and in patients with secondary prevention (SMD: −0.38 mm and p = 0.002). The low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level was significantly reduced in the ezetimibe/statin group (SMD: −0.58 mg/dL and p < 0.001). Conclusions: The effect of ezetimibe on CIMT reduction was shown in non-familial hypercholesterolemia and secondary prevention. These results suggest that the efficacy of ezetimibe may vary with potential CIMT reduction benefits in certain subpopulations.
Aluminum Alloys and Aluminum-Based Matrix Composites
Authors: Feng Di , Zang Qianhao , Liu Ying , Lee Yunsoo
Published: November 2023

Due to air pollution and energy shortages in the contemporary world, weight lighting for transportation vehicles and energy conservation, as well as emission reductions, are necessary to achieve carbon neutrality and fuel conservation [...]
Advanced Multiphase Steels
Authors: Jorge-Badiola Denis
Published: November 2023

We are currently experiencing an increasingly fast development of new steel grades with complex multiphase microstructures attempting to give tailored answers to industrial demands [...]
Nutritional Composition and Odor-Contributing Volatile Compounds of the Edible Mushroom Cantharellus alborufescens
Authors: Moghaddam Mohaddeseh , Ghobad-Nejhad Masoomeh , Stegemann Thomas , Çiçek Serhat Sezai , Zidorn Christian , Javanmard Majid
Published: November 2023

Chanterelles are one of the most highly valued wild edible mushroom genera worldwide. This work aimed to investigate the nutritional characteristics and volatile compounds’ profile of Cantharellus alborufescens for the first time. Proximate analysis was performed according to the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists, while the mineral contents and the volatile compounds were determined using ICP-MS and GC-MS, respectively. C. alborufescens had an average of 25.8% protein, 5.5% fat, 12.7% ash, and 55.9% carbohydrates, including 11.4% fiber per dw of mushroom. Further analyses of the fat and protein contents revealed high amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids as well as monosodium glutamate-like amino acids. Linoleic acid (42.0% of fat) and oleic acid (28.6% of fat) were the major fatty acids, while leucine (1.2%) and lysine (0.9%) were the most abundant essential amino acids. The results showed that C. alborufescens contained 3.1 µg/g vitamin D2 and 4.9 mg/g vitamin E per dw, as well as notable quantities of macro- and microelements, such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron. GC-MS analysis revealed various volatile compounds such as acetaldehyde, n-hexanal, 3-methylbutanal, 1-octen-3-ol, etc. In conclusion, this study supports the use of C. alborufescens as a food rich in fiber and vitamin E, with a suitable amount of protein and other nutrients.