bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogenic Synthesis of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Using Pimpinella anisum Seed Extract Characterization and Antibacterial activity
Authors: Elamin Nuha Y. , Taha Amel
Published: March 2023

Recent attention has been drawn to green methods for preparing metal oxide nanoparticles due to their ease of preparation and environmental friendliness in comparison with chemical and physical methods. By using an eco-friendly reducing agent, Pimpinella anisum seed extract, this study describes a method for synthesizing CuO nanoparticles that are based on biological principles. Copper oxide nanoparticles were produced utilizing a precipitation technique involving Pimpinella anisum extract, (CuCl2.2H2O), and (NaOH).To determine the morphology of CuONPs and their elemental composition, shape, size, and type of bonds present in the sample, UV–Vis spectrophotometry, XRD, SEM , and EDS analysis have all been performed. Spectra of the UV-visible spectrum showed an absorption peak between 250 – 300 nm, which confirms the formation of CuO nanoparticles. FT-IR spectral showed bands related to CuO vibration at 529 cm-1 are, suggesting the production of CuO nanoparticles. Analysis by X-ray diffraction revealed that the CuO nanoparticles produced were monoclinic in phase and had mean size of 22 nm. Based on SEM analysis, the obtained nanoparticles have an aspherical shape. EDX analysis was used to confirm copper and oxygen presence. The weight percentage of the latter was (71.2% Cu and 28.8% O), respectively. Four pathogenic microorganisms were used to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of green-synthesized CuO nanoparticles. As a result, the CuONPs prepared to have the potential for application as antimicrobial agents, suggesting that they may be useful for therapeutic applications in e future.
Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanostructure via Electro-deposition Technique for Gas sensing Switching Applications
Authors: Lal Nathu , Chawla Kanhaiya , Sharma Sandeep , Yadav Deepak Kumar , Lal Chhagan
Published: March 2023

Electro-deposition approach was used to produce zinc oxide nanostructure thin films for switching applications in optoelectronic devices. The aqueous solution of zinc nitrate (0.1, 0.5 & 1.0 M) and potassium nitrate (1.0M) of pH 6 were prepared at 65°C with constant stirring and nanostructure of ZnO thin film was deposited onto indium doped tin oxide (ITO) coated glass substrates. The morphology and growth size of deposited nanostructure thin film was analysed by SEM. The structural information was examined using XRD spectrum, which suggested that the deposited nanostructure thin films were crystalline with wurtzite phase. FTIR results gave information about metal oxide (ZnO) bonds and optical properties that was supported by the synthesized nanostructure. The effect of potential and concentration of used salts on the growth of ZnO nanostructure was also studied. Therefore, current-voltage characteristics were measured and applied for the switching properties in optoelectronic devices.
Biosynthesis of CaO Nanoparticles using Cleome viscosa Leaf Extract and Investigation of their Antioxidative and Cytotoxicity Activity
Authors: Sharma Hirdesh , Lal Roma , Pandey Maneesha , Shrivastav Archana
Published: March 2023

Cleome viscose Linn. also known as the jakhya are widely utilised in traditional and ethnomedicine. Biosynthesis of calcium oxide nanoparticles has captured attention of many as due synthesis involve non-toxic and eco-friendly solvents and ingredients, is more environmentally friendly, least time taking and cost-effective, and simpler than the other alternatives. In the study CaCO3 was obtained from conch shell. CaONPs were biosynthesized in methanolic extract of Cleome viscosa leaves through precipitation and deposition of CaCO3. The synthesized CaO nanoparticle was having the average particle size of ~72 nm according to DLS and the particle was found to be stable with zeta potential of -21.6 mV. The SEM analysis of nanoparticle predicted the structure to be roughly round. The UV-Visible spectrophotometer analysis predicted the maximum absorption in the visible range of ~400-420 nm. The synthesized CaO nanoparticle was found to be quite effective against BT-474 breast cancer cell line of conc. 3.4 mg/ml having cell cytotoxicity of ~ 86% at this concentration and IC50 of nanoparticle was 1.359 mg/ml. The IC50 of Antioxidative assay was 282 µg/ml and 525 µg/ml for DPPH and ABTS free radicals respectively.
Design for Improvement of COP from Waste Heat Utilization Through Air Conditioning System
Authors: Sabir Saba , Pant Hitesh , Kanojia Nikhi , Rawat Kuldeep
Published: March 2023

Energy is in higher demand than ever before since there are an increasing number of applications for it; nevertheless, the existing sources are unable to supply it in sufficient quantities. Alternate energy sources should be utilized, and as a consequence, energy conservation should be achieved through the utilization of waste heat from air conditioning systems. The major objective of this piece is to make use of waste heat generated by residential air conditioning systems while simultaneously increasing the coefficient of performance (COP). In order to achieve this goal, an experimental setup is utilized. In this configuration, an indirect kind of heat recovery equipment is used, and a heat exchanger that converts heat from a refrigerant to water is positioned between the compressor and the condenser of the host refrigeration system. The hot refrigerant gas generated by the compressor is sent via one side of the heat exchanger, while water is forced through the other side. The temperature of the water is raised as a result of the heated refrigerant gas. Because of this, the system’s COP might potentially increase by up to 16%.
A Possible Evolution of Black Holes by Using a Hydrodynamic Analogy
Authors: BERBENTE Corneliu , BERBENTE Sorin
Published: March 2023

The creation of black holes starts with the implosion of a star after the fuel to power the thermonuclear reactions from inside was consumed. Then more and more mass is added until a critical value of the ratio mass/radius was obtained. This ratio contains the Schwarzschild radius, the general relativity being taken in consideration as well. Mainly, the definition of the black hole implies the impossibility of light to leave the black hole/ Essentially, the definition of a black hole implies that light cannot leave the black hole. In this paper, we show that the inability of HD-gravitons to leave a black holes will affect the black hole evolution. In this paper, we show that the inability of HD gravitons to leave a black hole will affect the evolution of the black hole.
Nonlinear Free Surface Flow past a Wedge in Channel
Authors: BLIZAK Tahar , GASMI Abdelkader
Published: March 2023

In this paper, the two-dimensional problem of irrotational flow past a wedge located in the center of the channel is considered. Assuming that the fluid is incompressible and non-viscous, the influence of gravity is ignored but the surface tension is considered. The problem which is characterized by the nonlinear boundary conditions on the free surface of the unknown equation is solved numerically by the series truncation technique. The results show that for all given wedge configurations, there is a critical value for the Weber number, for which there is no solution for every Weber number value smaller than this. In addition, the obtained results extend the work done by Gasmi and Mekias [2].
Design of longitudinal autopilot for Sky Sailor UAV using SLC and TECS controllers
Authors: GHELEM Nourddine , BOUDANA Djamal , BOUCHHIDA Ouahid
Published: March 2023

in recent years, UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) have become playing an active role and have been involved in a number of fields such as surveillance, photography, agriculture, transportation and communications. For this reason, the research institution is working to develop linear and non-linear controllers to make these UAVs more stable and effective while performing various tasks assigned to them. In this paper, a longitudinal autopilot was designed for a solar UAV (sky sailor) using two controllers, the first is SLC (Successive Loop Closure) which is a classic controller that is based on successive loops with a PID controller, and the second method is the TECS (Total Energy Control System) controller that depends on the total specific energy rate and the energy distribution rate to control the airspeed and altitude of the UAV. After detailing the working principle and tuning of each controller they were applied to the non-linear model of UAV using MATLAB Simulink. Through the results obtained from the simulations, we conclude that the TECS controller is better than the SLC controller in terms of stability and energy economy, being an ideal choice for solar UAVs to increase their endurance, and for civil aircraft to reduce the cost of flights.
Thermo-mechanical properties of fused filament fabricated PLA at elevated temperatures
Authors: PELIN George , PELIN Cristina - Elisabeta , BOTAN Mihail , STEFAN Adriana , CRISTEA George - Cătălin , PANAIT Alexandra Ana Maria
Published: March 2023

This study aims to present the authors' recent research investigating the mechanical and thermo-mechanical properties of commercial polylactic acid (PLA) polymer. Samples were manufactured by 3D printing of fused filament fabrication (FFF) and tests were performed according to ASTM International standards for polymers D638, D695 and D790. All test samples were made using the same printing process parameters. The static mechanical tests consisted of tensile and flexural loadings at various temperature ranges, from room temperature to elevated temperature (25°C, 40°C and 50°C, respectively). For ensuring that the additively manufactured products can resist severities of real-life applications, thermal stability under mechanical load tests (HDT - heat deflection temperature) were carried out. The temperature influence on the mechanical and thermomechanical properties was determined and presented, and a synthesis of the characteristics was made in accordance with the applications of products based on the studied material.
Mathematical Description of the Functioning of the Pulsatory Liposome
Authors: POPESCU Dumitru , IGA Dumitru Petru , POPESCU Alin Gabriel , NICULESCU Valentin I. R.
Published: March 2023

We consider a liposome filled with the aqueous solution of an osmotic solute enclosed in a large water bath. Due to osmotic pressure, it works according to a sequence of cycles with two stages. In the first stage, the lipid vesicle with a certain input concentration of the osmotic substance is swelling up in an osmotic process until it reaches a size, when one pore is formed on its surface. The second stage follows, where the vesicle content is partially eliminated through the pore to induce a decrease in the vesicle volume up to its original size. If we take into account that the pore has two stages in its evolution, then the relaxing stage may be divided into two new stages. The swelling of the liposome is described by a differential equation. All the processes which contribute to the vesicle relaxing and its return to the initial size are described by three differential equations.
A computational tool for conceptual design and optimization of planetary rovers
Authors: SEENI Aravind , SCHÄFER Bernd
Published: March 2023

The design process of a Mars rover is driven by multiple design constraints, namely overall mass, power consumption and volume (dimensions). Various systems, such as mobility, manipulation, handling, power, thermal, communication, navigation, avionics and science instruments, together make a complete rover vehicle and they should function collectively to perform a given task. Each of the subsystems can be thought of as modular building blocks that are integrated together to form a fully functional rover vehicle. When approaching the design of such a vehicle, the designer should take into account of cross design dependencies existent between different subsystems and technology limitations. Performing any particular task, would lead to many design possibilities. Choosing the final design from many feasible solutions is arguably a daunting task. In order to make this process simple and convenient, as well as to understand the design non-linearity existing in this solution space, the authors have employed a systems engineering approach to develop a tool comprising subsystem models. The subsystem models comprise parametric and physics-based models. For designing suitable user-defined objectives, these models when integrated with Genetic Algorithm forms an effective tool to support design trade-offs during the conceptual design process. This integrated modeling and optimization approach is thought to be efficient in identifying rover system concepts.
Self-regulation of light emission of an AlGaInP quantum well diode
Authors: Fu Jianwei , Fu Kang , Gao Xumin , Yan Jiabin , Ye Ziqi , Wang Yongjin
Published: March 2023

When an AlGaInP quantum well (QW) diode is biased with a forward
voltage and illuminated with an external shorter-wavelength light
beam, the diode is in a superposition state of both light emission and
detection. The two different states take place simultaneously, and
both the injected current and the generated photocurrent begin to mix.
Here, we make use of this intriguing effect and integrate an AlGaInP
QW diode with a programmed circuit. The AlGaInP QW diode with the
dominant emission peak wavelength centered around 629.5 nm is excited
by a 620-nm red-light source. The photocurrent is then extracted as a
feedback signal to regulate the light emission of the QW diode in real
time without an external or monolithically integrated photodetector,
paving a feasible way to autonomously adjust the brightness of the QW
diode for intelligent illumination in response to changes in the
environmental light condition.
Comparison of excitation and kinetic temperatures in a laser-produced plasma using absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Phillips Mark C. , Kautz Elizabeth J. , Harilal Sivanandan S.
Published: March 2023

High-resolution tunable laser absorption spectroscopy is used to
measure time-resolved absorption spectra for six neutral uranium
transitions in a laser-produced plasma. Analysis of the spectra shows
that kinetic temperatures are similar for all six transitions, but
excitation temperatures are higher than kinetic temperatures from
10–100 μs, indicating departures from local
thermodynamic equilibrium.
Highly efficient measurement of optical quadrature squeezing using a spatial light modulator controlled by machine learning
Authors: Amari Jorge , Takai Junnosuke , Hirano Takuya
Published: March 2023

Pulsed squeezed light is a key resource for many quantum information processing tasks. Among the various methods for generating squeezed light, single-pass parametric amplification has various advantages such as broad bandwidth, compactness, and stability. The challenge in achieving high-level pulsed squeezing has been to improve detection efficiency. We used a spatial light modulator controlled by machine learning to improve the spatial mode matching between the local oscillator and squeezed light. We achieved pulsed squeezing of 5.88 dB generated by optical parametric amplification in a waveguide. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest obtained pulsed squeezing, and we believe this achievement will lead to more compact and efficient quantum information technology.
Why have we not yet solved the challenge of plastic degradation by biological means?
Authors: Bertocchini Federica , Arias Clemente F.
Published: March 2023

The invention of fossil fuel–derived plastics changed and reshaped society for the better; however, their mass production has created an unprecedented accumulation of waste and an environmental crisis. Scientists are searching for better ways to reduce plastic waste than the current methods of mechanical recycling and incineration, which are only partial solutions. Biological means of breaking down plastics have been investigated as alternatives, with studies mostly focusing on using microorganisms to biologically degrade sturdy plastics like polyethylene (PE). Unfortunately, after a few decades of research, biodegradation by microorganisms has not provided the hoped-for results. Recent studies suggest that insects could provide a new avenue for investigation into biotechnological tools, with the discovery of enzymes that can oxidize untreated PE. But how can insects provide a solution that could potentially make a difference? And how can biotechnology revolutionize the plastic industry to stop ongoing/increasing contamination?
Re-examination of the risk of autoimmune diseases after dengue virus infection: A population-based cohort study
Authors: Shih Hsin-I , Chi Chia-Yu , Tsai Pei-Fang , Wang Yu-Ping , Chien Yu-Wen
Published: March 2023

Previous studies suggested that dengue was associated with an increased risk of several autoimmune diseases. However, this association still needs to be explored due to the limitations of these studies. A population-based cohort study was conducted using national health databases in Taiwan and included 63,814 newly diagnosed, laboratory-confirmed dengue patients between 2002 and 2015 and 1:4 controls (n = 255,256) matched by age, sex, area of residence and symptom onset time. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to investigate the risk of autoimmune diseases after dengue infection. Dengue patients had a slightly higher risk of overall autoimmune diseases than non-dengue controls (aHR 1.16; P = 0.0002). Stratified analyses by specific autoimmune diseases showed that only autoimmune encephalomyelitis remained statistically significant after Bonferroni correction for multiple testing (aHR 2.72; P < 0.0001). Sixteen (0.025%) dengue patients and no (0%) controls developed autoimmune encephalomyelitis in the first month of follow-up (HR >9999, P < 0.0001), but the risk between groups was not significantly different thereafter. Contrary to previous studies, our findings showed that dengue was associated with an increased short-term risk of a rare complication, autoimmune encephalomyelitis, but not associated with other autoimmune diseases.
Admission of kidney patients to a closed staff nephrology department results in a better short-term survival
Authors: Schwartz Lihi , Rosenshtok Omer , Shalev Leah , Schneider Ella , Basok Anna , Vorobiov Marina , Romanjuk Elvira , Rogachev Boris , El-Sayed Ismail , Schwartz Lina , Menashe Idan , Regev Ohad , Haviv Yosef S.
Published: March 2023

Background

The outcome of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and acute kidney injury (AKI) is often dismal and measures to ameliorate their course are scarce. When admitted to the hospital, kidney patients are often hospitalized in general Medicine wards rather than in a specialized Nephrology department. In the current study, we compared the outcome of two cohorts of kidney patients (CKD and AKI) admitted either to general open-staff (with rotating physicians) Medicine wards or to a closed-staff (non-rotating Nephrologists) Nephrology ward.

Methods

In this population-based retrospective cohort study, we enrolled 352 CKD patients and 382 AKI patients admitted to either Nephrology or General Medicine wards. Short-term (< = 90 days) and long-term (>90 days) outcomes were recorded for survival, renal outcomes, cardiovascular outcomes, and dialysis complications. Multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regression and negative binomial regression adjusting to potential sociodemographic confounders as well as to a propensity score based on the association of all medical background variables to the admitted ward, to mitigate the potential admittance bias to each ward.

Results

One hundred and seventy-one CKD patients (48.6%) were admitted to the Nephrology ward and 181 (51.4%) were admitted to general Medicine wards. For AKI, 180 (47.1%) and 202 (52.9%) were admitted to Nephrology and general Medicine wards, respectively. Baseline age, comorbidities and the degree of renal dysfunction differed between the groups. Using propensity score analysis, a significantly reduced mortality rate was observed for kidney patients admitted to the Nephrology ward vs. general Medicine in short term mortality (but not long-term mortality) among both CKD patients admitted (OR = 0.28, CI = 0.14–0.58, p = 0.001), and AKI patients (or = 0.25, CI = 0.12–0.48, p< 0.001). Nephrology ward admission resulted in higher rates of renal replacement therapy (RRT), both during the first hospitalization and thereafter.

Conclusions

Thus, a simple measure of admission to a specialized Nephrology department may improve kidney patient outcome, thereby potentially affecting future health care planning.
Prevalence and determinants of undiagnosed hypertension in the Western region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mumena Walaa A. , Hammouda Sahar A. , Aljohani Raghad M. , Alzahrani Amal M. , Bamagos Mona J. , Alharbi Wed K. , Mulla Bodoor M. , Kutbi Hebah A.
Published: March 2023

Recent data regarding the prevalence and determinants of undiagnosed hypertension in Saudi Arabia are particularly lacking. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension and to identify potential associates of hypertension risk among adults in the Western region of Saudi Arabia. Cross-sectional data for 489 Saudi adults were collected from public places in the cities of Madinah and Jeddah. Demographic, anthropometric (height, weight, waist circumference), and blood pressure (assessed by a digital sphygmomanometer) data were collected from all participants during face-to-face interviews. The American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association guidelines were used to evaluate blood pressure status. Sodium intake was assessed using a semi-validated food frequency questionnaire. The prevalence of undiagnosed, elevated blood pressure, stage I, or stage II hypertension was 9.82%, 39.5%, and 17.2%, respectively. The proportions of individuals with undiagnosed hypertension were higher among men and smokers (p < .001 for both). Blood pressure status was positively associated with weight, body mass index, and waist circumference among participants (p < .001 for all). Higher body mass index and waist circumference were associated with increased odds of stage I and stage II hypertension. Sodium intake was not associated with blood pressure status. A strikingly high prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension was observed among the study sample. National intervention programs are necessary to encourage regular screening and follow-up for the early detection and management of hypertension.
Ankle strategies for step-aside movement during quiet standing
Authors: Xie Lingchao , Cho Sanghyun
Published: March 2023

The mediolateral ankle strategy plays a crucial role in providing ankle stability in ground obstacle-avoidance behavior. This is achieved by changing basic walking patterns according to the characteristics of the obstacle. In daily life, it is more common to use step-aside movement (i.e., dodging step) for collision avoidance rather than side-stepping (i.e., widening standing base) when encountering an approaching pedestrian or bicycle. While studies have been conducted on the mediolateral ankle strategy contribution in obstacle avoidance using side-stepping, knowledge of step-aside movement is still inadequate. Therefore, we conducted an electromyography (EMG) analysis on the tibialis anterior (TA), peroneus longus (PL), and soleus (SOL) muscles, as well as measured center of pressure (CoP) displacement, and vertical ground reaction force (vGRF) of the standing leg, in order to understand the role of ankle muscles in step-aside movement during quiet standing. Fifteen healthy young men repeated twelve step-aside movements in both left and right directions. A Bayesian one-sample t-test was used to determine the sufficient step and participant counts. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to investigate the correlation between the muscle activity and CoP displacement or vGRF. The regression coefficients (β) of the left push phase and the right loading phase were tested against zero using a Bayesian one-sample t-test to identify the correlation between independent and dependent variables. We used the one-dimensional statistical parametric mapping (SPM1d) method to analyze the differences between and within the groups of EMG data based on the continuous time series. The results showed that the PL displayed a substantial contribution to the mediolateral ankle strategy during the push phase of step-aside movement, and also contributed to maintaining ankle stability during the loading phase. This suggested that screening for PL weakness and providing appropriate interventions and/or training approaches is especially critical for populations with walking stability problems.
Ang1 and Ang4 differentially affect colitis and carcinogenesis in an AOM-DSS mouse model
Authors: Hu Alexander , Roberts Cullen , Moscalu Andrei , Redston Mark , Yoo James
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Angiogenin-1 (Ang1) and angiogenin-4 (Ang4) are 14-kDa ribonucleases with potent angiogenic and antimicrobial properties. The role of Ang1 and Ang4 in chronic colitis and colitis-associated cancer has not been previously studied.

Methods

Wild-type (WT) and angiogenin-1 knock-out (Ang1-KO) C57BL/6 mice were given azoxymethane, a colon carcinogen, 2 days in advance of three cycles of 3.5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). Disease activity index (DAI) was recorded, a colonoscopy was performed after each DSS treatment, and mice were euthanized (colitis, recovery, cancer) with tissue evaluated by histopathology. Ang1, Ang4, TNF-α, Il-1F062, IL-6, IL-10, IL-23, IL-33 mRNA levels were analyzed by RT-PCR.

Results

Ang1-KO mice exhibited more severe colitis compared to WT mice during both the acute (P<0.05) and recovery (P<0.05) phases of each DSS cycle. Consistent with these results, colonic TNF-α, IL1-β, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-33 mRNA levels were significantly upregulated in Ang1-KO mice (P<0.05). While Ang4 increased to similar levels in both WT and Ang1-KO mice during colitis and recovery phases, WT mice were distinguished by a significant upregulation of Ang1. Interestingly, despite the reduced colitis, WT mice developed significantly more tumors compared to Ang1-KO mice (P<0.05). 134 tumors formed in WT mice (4.6 tumors/mouse) while only 46 tumors formed (1.5 tumors/mice) in Ang1-KO mice, which were also characterized by a 34-fold decrease in Ang4 compared to WT mice and the complete absence of Ang1.

Conclusions

In a mouse model of colitis-associated cancer, Ang1-KO mice develop more severe colitis, but fewer tumors compared to WT mice. Ang1 levels correlate with the severity of colitis and the development of colitis-associated cancer, while Ang4 was upregulated during both colitis and cancer. Ang1 and Ang4 play important regulatory roles in the response to chronic colitis and the development of colitis-associated cancer and may serve as novel therapeutic targets.
Strain-dependent assessment of dough’s polymer structure and functionality during the baking process
Authors: Alpers Thekla , Becker Thomas , Jekle Mario
Published: March 2023

During the baking process, the functionality of the heterogeneous dough matrix changes as the composing polymers experience conformational transition processes. The thermally induced structural changes affect the involvement and functionality of the polymers in the dough matrix. With the main hypothesis being that different types and magnitudes of strain exerted during the measurement would provide information on different structural levels and interactions, SAOS rheology in multiwave mode and large deformation extensional rheometry were applied to two microstructurally different systems. The functionality of the two systems, a highly connected standard wheat dough (φ ≈ 1.1) and an aerated, yeasted wheat dough (φ ≈ 2.3), depicting limited connectivity and strength of interactions, was accessed under different deformations and types of strains. Applying SAOS rheology, starch functionality prevailed on the behavior of the dough matrix. In contrast, gluten functionality prevailed the large deformation behavior. Using an inline fermentation and baking LSF technique, the heat-induced gluten polymerization was shown to increase strain hardening behavior above 70°C. In the aerated system, the strain hardening effect became already evident under small deformation testing, as the expansion of gas cells caused a pre-expansion of the gluten strands. The expanded dough matrix of yeasted dough was further shown to be substantially subjected to degradation once the network reached beyond its maximal gas holding capacity. Using this approach, the combined impact of yeast fermentation and thermal treatment on the strain hardening behavior of wheat dough was revealed for the first time by LSF. Furthermore, the rheological properties were successfully linked to oven rise behavior: a decreasing connectivity combined with the initiation of strain hardening by fast extension processes occurring in the yeasted dough matrix during the final baking phase was linked to limited oven rise functionality prematurely around 60°C.
Mechanical loading modulates phosphate related genes in rat bone
Authors: Nepal Ashwini Kumar , van Essen Hubertus W. , Reijnders Christianne M. A. , Lips Paul , Bravenboer Nathalie
Published: March 2023

Mechanical loading determines bone mass and bone structure, which involves many biochemical signal molecules. Of these molecules, Mepe and Fgf23 are involved in bone mineralization and phosphate homeostasis. Thus, we aimed to explore whether mechanical loading of bone affects factors of phosphate homeostasis. We studied the effect of mechanical loading of bone on the expression of Fgf23, Mepe, Dmp1, Phex, Cyp27b1, and Vdr. Twelve-week old female rats received a 4-point bending load on the right tibia, whereas control rats were not loaded. RT-qPCR was performed on tibia mRNA at 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 hours after mechanical loading for detection of Mepe, Dmp1, Fgf23, Phex, Cyp27b1, and Vdr. Immunohistochemistry was performed to visualise FGF23 protein in tibiae. Serum FGF23, phosphate and calcium levels were measured in all rats. Four-point bending resulted in a reduction of tibia Fgf23 gene expression by 64% (p = 0.002) and a reduction of serum FGF23 by 30% (p<0.001), six hours after loading. Eight hours after loading, Dmp1 and Mepe gene expression increased by 151% (p = 0.007) and 100% (p = 0.007). Mechanical loading did not change Phex, Cyp27b1, and Vdr gene expression at any time-point. We conclude that mechanical loading appears to provoke both a paracrine as well as an endocrine response in bone by modulating factors that regulate bone mineralization and phosphate homeostasis.
Herpes Simplex Virus Pseudotumor Masking as Gastric Malignancy
Authors: Kripalani Simran , Williams Jennifer , Joneja Upasana , Bansal Preeti , Spitz Francis
Published: March 2023

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) pseudotumor is a rare presentation of HSV and has not been previously reported in the stomach. A 51-year-old man with a medical history of HIV presented with new-onset dysphagia. Endoscopy revealed an HSV-positive mass at the gastroesophageal junction. After antiviral treatment, the patient returned with a 100-pound unintentional weight loss. Computed tomography showed an infiltrative mass with enlarged lymph nodes. The mass had progressed despite HSV treatment, and a repeat set of biopsies were negative for HSV with cells concerning for B-cell lymphoma. The patient was taken to the operating room for a full-thickness biopsy because of increasing concern for malignancy. The procedure was complicated by gastric perforation, leading to a total gastrectomy. Final pathology demonstrated an HSV-positive pseudotumor, negative for malignancy. It is important to diagnose gastric masses, especially in HIV-positive patients at high risk of infection and malignancy. However, immunocompromised patients with an HSV-positive mass should be treated for HSV pseudotumor with a longer than standard duration of antiviral therapy.
Self-Efficacy and the Impact of Inflammatory Bowel Disease on Patients' Daily Lives
Authors: Sheehan Jessica L. , Greene-Higgs LaVana , Swanson Linnea , Higgins Peter D.R. , Krein Sarah L. , Waljee Akbar K. , Saini Sameer D. , Berinstein Jeffrey A. , Mellinger Jessica L. , Piette John D. , Resnicow Ken , Cohen-Mekelburg Shirley
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Self-efficacy, i.e., the confidence in one's capacity to perform a behavior, is crucial to the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) self-management skills. We aimed to measure IBD self-efficacy and the relationship between self-efficacy and the patient-reported impact of IBD on daily life.

METHODS:

We surveyed patients with IBD from a single academic center using the IBD Self-Efficacy Scale (IBD-SES) and patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures. The IBD-SES assesses 4 IBD domains: patients' confidence in managing stress and emotions, symptoms and disease, medical care, and remission. IBD PROs evaluate daily life impact, coping strategies, emotional impact, and systemic symptoms. We examined the association between IBD-SES domains with the lowest scores and IBD daily life impact.

RESULTS:

A total of 160 patients completed the survey. Domain scores on the IBD-SES were lowest for managing stress and emotions (mean 6.76, SD 1.86) and symptoms and disease (mean 6.71, SD 2.12) on a 1–10 scale. Controlling for age, sex, IBD type, disease activity, moderate-to-severe disease, depression and anxiety, a higher confidence in managing stress and emotions (β −0.12, 95% confidence interval −0.20 to −0.05, P = 0.001), and managing symptoms and disease (β −0.28, 95% confidence interval −0.35 to −0.20, P < 0.001) were each associated with lower IBD daily life impact.

DISCUSSION:

Patients with IBD report low confidence in managing stress and emotion and managing symptoms and disease. Higher self-efficacy in these domains was associated with lower IBD daily life impact. Self-management tools that promote self-efficacy in managing these domains have the potential to reduce IBD's daily life impact.
Some data regarding scientific research from Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas in Scopus database in 2023
Authors: Montoya Oscar Danilo
Published: March 2023

This number of the Ingeniería journal explores the participation of the researchers from Bogotá City in Colombia that selects our journal to present their contributions in different research areas of Engineering, which includes Industrial, Electrical, Electronic, Civil, Environmental, Agricultural, and Mechanical Engineering, among others.
Antifungal Potential of biobased oils from Citrus sinensis Peels and Eucalyptus globulus leaves in vitro against fungal isolates
Authors: Abdul-Rahaman Adams , V. Irtwange Simon , P. Kortse Aloho , Makinta Umar
Published: March 2023

Biobased oils found in the leaves of many plants used as coating materials for the preservation of fruits influence the handling of citrus fruits. The effectiveness of these oils on the target organisms is associated with the ability to develop resistant strains. In the present study the antifungal activity of the biobased oils obtained from orange peel and eucalyptus leaves against Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Rhizomucor pusillus and Penicillium citrinium was tested at various concentrations in vitro. Sample fruits showing signs of decay during postharvest storage were selected for isolation and identification of the fungi. A serial dilution method was applied at 10 fold for fungi isolates and concentrations were plated onto Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) media 15 mL. The plates were incubated at room temperature (28 °C) and observed every 24 hrs for possible microbial growth. The pour plate method was used to investigate the antifungal activity of the oils on the test fungi in vitro. The results indicate a continuous decline in the inhibition of the biobased oil treatment during the period of inoculation. The interaction effect of the different biobased oil, their concentrations and the different isolates was significant (P ? 0.05) from day 1 to day 7 during the inoculation. The combined orange peels and eucalyptus leaves at 100% concentration recorded (69.35%) as the highest percent of inhibition which was significantly higher than all other interactions. The least percent inhibition was found with orange peels biobased oil at 1:1 v/v concentration against Aspergillus flavus (24.23 %). Biobased oils at full strength from eucalyptus combined with oil from orange peels demonstrated significant potential against Penicillium citrinium. This research revealed the potential antifungal properties in vitro of the biobased oils against pathogenic fungi. These findings provide the basis for the application of combined biobased oil as an effective antifungal remedy against pathogenic fungi.
The apatinib and pemetrexed combination has antitumor and antiangiogenic effects against NSCLC
Authors: Zhou Ling , Zhang Wenchao , Xiang Yi , Qian Zijun , Zhou Jianping , Ni Lei , Feng Yun , Gao Beili
Published: March 2023

Chemotherapy for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains the first treatment choice. Angiogenesis inhibitors are effective for lung cancer treatment. This study explored whether chemotherapy combined with angiogenesis inhibitors could achieve better efficacy in NSCLC. The zebrafish A549 xenograft model was used to investigate the combined effect of apatinib and chemotherapeutic agents in NSCLC. Apatinib combined with pemetrexed demonstrated the highest antitumor effect compared with apatinib combined with gemcitabine or paclitaxel in vitro. In the zebrafish A549 xenograft model, apatinib and pemetrexed, alone or in combination, showed significant inhibition of tumor growth. Co-treatment with apatinib and pemetrexed demonstrated the best antitumor effects, suggesting that the combination of apatinib and pemetrexed might be a promising alternative therapy for patients with lung cancer. Apatinib combined with pemetrexed had enhanced antitumor effects compared with either one alone in the zebrafish model of NSCLC.
Causality and independence in perfectly adapted dynamical systems
Authors: Blom Tineke , Mooij Joris M.
Published: March 2023

Perfect adaptation in a dynamical system is the phenomenon that one or more variables have an initial transient response to a persistent change in an external stimulus but revert to their original value as the system converges to equilibrium. With the help of the causal ordering algorithm, one can construct graphical representations of dynamical systems that represent the causal relations between the variables and the conditional independences in the equilibrium distribution. We apply these tools to formulate sufficient graphical conditions for identifying perfect adaptation from a set of first-order differential equations. Furthermore, we give sufficient conditions to test for the presence of perfect adaptation in experimental equilibrium data. We apply this method to a simple model for a protein signalling pathway and test its predictions in both simulations and using real-world protein expression data. We demonstrate that perfect adaptation can lead to misleading orientation of edges in the output of causal discovery algorithms.
Experimental and numerical investigation of crashworthiness performance for optimal automobile structures using response surface methodology and oppositional based learning differential evolution algorithm
Authors: Yildirim Ahmet , Demirci Emre , Karagöz Selçuk , Özcan Şevket , Yildiz Ali Riza
Published: March 2023

In this study, experimental and numerical crash analyses are carried out to reach an optimum bumper beam and energy absorber design for a passenger car. Design parameters have been created to determine the most crash-efficient bumper beam and energy absorber models. The models that are formed by using Taguchi tables are subjected to crash analysis, and the responses are obtained to find an optimal design. Response surface methodology is used to approximate the structural responses in crash analysis, and the optimum bumper beam and energy absorber models are obtained by the differential evolution algorithm. The optimum model is subjected to crash analysis in the Hyperform software without considering the sheet metal forming effect. Besides, the model is analyzed by incorporating forming history into the crash analysis. As a result of the numerical analysis, a new energy absorber and bumper beam model with the better crash performance and weight reduction are obtained.
Legal Problems and Solutions in Stablecoins: A Multi-Disciplinary Approach Applied to Euro Stablecoins
Authors: Sheehy Benedict , Hawkins John , Diaz-Granados Juan
Published: March 2023

An increasingly important form of electronic currency is the ‘stablecoin’. Unlike other high-profile ‘cryptocurrencies’, such as Bitcoin, stablecoins claim to be matched by a corresponding amount of secure assets in a national currency to which the stablecoin can be converted at par. These crypto-assets, however, create significant legal and economic problems. Notably, issues about trust in both issuers and backing assets, the risk of runs, and particular challenges associated with public and private law regimes resist the adoption of stablecoin both in Europe and beyond. This article draws from previous experiences to analyse these issues and propose solutions. Taking a multi-disciplinary approach, the article argues that the legal and economic issues surrounding today’s stablecoins could be addressed using the lessons from prior centuries.
Migration Strategies and Human-Made Disasters: Considering Tajik Migration Policy Initiatives in Tashkorgan from the Perspective of Disaster Anthropology
Authors: Phuong Nguyen Tram Thi
Published: March 2023

This article examines the Pamiri Tajik population in China at the southwesternmost corner of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Prefecture and their struggles during numerous local natural and human-made disasters over the past decade. It explores, from the local point of view, the disaster recovery policies that function as a disguise for homogenization-oriented state-building initiatives. It examines how the local Tajik people have been reacting to and coping with natural disasters and the related relocation policy initiatives and how the disaster they are increasingly facing is the desecration of their homeland and the destruction of their traditional livelihood. The fieldwork findings reported are based on 12 years of fieldwork throughout Xinjiang, the Pamiri borderlands (both in the Pamiri region in Tajikistan and Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County in Xinjiang, China) as well as in the lowland relocation and sedentarization area in the Rabot resettlement township and the Tajik Abat resettlement township on the edge of the Taklimakan desert.
Energy Security Challenges and Opportunities for the Country of Georgia
Authors: Pignatti Norberto
Published: March 2023

Georgia is a small, open, developing economy, situated in a key geopolitical area at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, striving to achieve greater energy and national security. Achieving energy security, however, can be challenging for a country poorly endowed with fossil fuels and with limited interactions with broader international energy markets. Georgia, luckily, has the potential to dramatically increase its energy security in the coming decades by means of greater integration with its neighbours and European energy markets, and building on the current emphasis on (and support for) energy transition and decarbonisation initiatives to fight climate change, leveraging its endowment of renewable energy sources and its strategic location between Europe and Asia.
Tackling and Regulating Disasters. An Introduction
Authors: Tzaneva Elya
Published: March 2023

Today, disasters of different kinds are inseparable from the lives of individuals and of communities. They thrust themselves into people’s existence and bring chaos to organised society, as they challenge, disrupt and change the typical patterns of relations between people and their environment, both natural and social. This subject is positioned in the relatively newly established scientific field of disaster anthropology. Taken together, the articles included have made extensive use of research material to show that human communities and their cultures are formed under the influence of the natural environment, the physical and mental characteristics of the people in them and, accordingly, of the social and economic development they themselves create. The articles examine various questions and subjects and allow comparison of the existing danger of disaster and the vulnerability of the groups affected by disaster, and consider the construction of their behavioural responses in managing disaster, and their relations at official, institutional and personal levels. There is consideration too of changes in the social environment, and of the effects of disasters on the political and economic development of the countries and communities in which they occur.
A new method to improve the real-time performance of aero-engine component level model
Authors: Cai Changpeng , Zheng Qiangang , Zhang Haibo
Published: March 2023

In order to improve the real-time performance of aero-engine component-level models, an automatic fast positioning interpolation method is proposed. Based on the maximum parameter slope, this method can automatically determine the interpolation cut in point, change the disadvantage of low efficiency of traditional sequential interpolation from the starting point, effectively reduce the interpolation interval, thus greatly improving the efficiency of interpolation. The method is applied to the calculation of gas thermodynamic parameters and the interpolation of the characteristic of rotating parts ,so as to ameliorate the real-time performance of the single-stage flow path calculation of the component-level model. Simulation results show that, compared with the traditional method, the method proposed in this paper improves the fan characteristic calculation efficiency by 47.5%, reduces the time of single complete flow calculation by 74.3% when the dynamic and steady-state accuracy changes are less than 0.4%, which greatly improves the real-time performance of the component-level model.
Modeling of Fatigue Cracking in Asphalt Materials Based on the Paris Law with an Initialization Term—Calibration from Notched and Unnotched Specimens
Authors: Santos Ibishola , Chupin Olivier , Piau Jean-Michel , Marsac Paul , Hammoum Ferhat
Published: March 2023

This article aims at presenting a thermo-mechanical model dedicated to fatigue cracking in bituminous material. The model calibration based on two-point bending (2PB) fatigue tests performed on specimens of bitumen-bound sand is also detailed. In the model, crack growth is handled by the Paris law considering the initialization term Nini. This parameter represents the number of loading cycles required to initiate a short macrocrack of length a0 from which the Paris law can be applied. The tests utilized for calibration and comparison with the numerical simulations are performed on notched and unnotched trapezoidal samples, for different levels of imposed displacement amplitude. The parameters of the Paris law are determined using the notched specimens (a0 being assimilated to the notch depth) except for Nini, which is deduced from the difference in lifetime duration between the tests carried out on notched and unnotched specimens. The full calibration procedure described thereafter has the advantage to not depend on the choice of a0. It is shown that the simulations run for the calibrated model are globally in good agreement with the test results obtained for both types of samples and for all the imposed displacement amplitudes. Finally, the model is used to predict the response of four-point bending tests carried out on the same bitumen-bound sand, considering the input parameters determined from the 2PB tests. The intrinsic nature of the model is evaluated through its ability to simulate both types of tests using the same set of material parameters.