bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Finite Source Stock-dependent Stochastic Inventory System with Heterogeneous Servers and Retrial Facility
Authors: Thanushkodi Harikrishnan , Kathirvel Jeganathan , Krishnasamy Srinivasan , Vishnukumaran Anzen Koffer , Sztrik Janos
Published: December 2023

This article deals with a finite-source stock-dependent stochastic inventory system with heterogeneous servers and retrial facility. The system can store up to S number of items, and the lifetime of each item follows an exponential distribution. The primary customers arrive in a finite waiting hall from a finite source and get service from the multi-channel (c-heterogeneous servers). The customer’s arrival rate depends on the present stock level. Those customers who arrive while the waiting hall is full enter into the finite orbit. Also, customers in the waiting hall can become impatient and enter the orbit. The (s,Q) ordering policy is adopted for the replenishment of stocks. In the steady state, the joint probability distribution of a number of items in the inventory, busy servers, customers in the waiting hall, and orbit is computed. The comparative numerical analysis of heterogeneous and homogeneous servers on the expected total cost, the average number of customers in the waiting hall and orbit, the fraction of successful retrial rate, and the average impatient customer rate are also carried out.
Validation of an IoT System Using UHF RFID Technology for Goose Growth Monitoring
Authors: Černilová Barbora , Linda Miloslav , Kuře Jiří , Hromasová Monika , Chotěborský Rostislav , Krunt Ondřej
Published: December 2023

Regular weight measurement is important in fattening geese to assess their health status. Failure to gain weight may indicate a potential illness. Standard weight gain analysis involves direct contact with the animal, which can cause stress to the animal, resulting in overall negative impacts on animal welfare. The focus of this study was to design a smart solution for monitoring weight changes in the breeding of farm animals. The proposed IoT system with a weighing device equipped with RFID technology for animal registration aimed to minimise the negative aspects associated with measuring in contact with humans. The designed system aims to incorporate modern approaches in animal husbandry and utilise the acquired data for the potential development of breeding approaches for various animal breeds. The system consisted of three main components: a data acquisition system, a weighing system with RFID, and an environmental monitoring system. In this study, the RFID system accuracy for detecting geese in the weighing system environment was assessed. The entire system evaluation yielded a sensitivity of 93.87%, specificity of 99.94%, accuracy of 99.85%, and precision of 95.09%. Regression analysis revealed a good correlation between observed feeding and RFID registrations with a determination coefficient of R2 = 0.9813.
Immunohistochemical Expression of the ANGPT1, Casr and PTK2 Proteins in Uterine Fibroids
Authors: Markowska Anna , De Mezer Mateusz , Kurzawa Paweł , Bednarek Wiesława , Gryboś Anna , Krzyżaniak Monika , Markowska Janina , Gryboś Marian , Żurawski Jakub
Published: December 2023

Understanding the molecular factors involved in the development of uterine myomas may result in the use of pharmacological drugs instead of aggressive surgical treatment. ANGPT1, CASR, and PTK2 were examined in myoma and peripheral tissues samples taken from women after myoma surgery and in normal uterine muscle tissue samples in the control group. Tests were performed using tissue microarray immunohistochemistry.
No statistically significant differences in ANGPT1 expression between the tissue of the myoma, the periphery, and the normal uterine muscle tissue of the control group were recorded.
The CASR value was reduced in the myoma and peripheral tissue and normal in the group of women without myomas. PTK2 expression was also lower in the myoma and periphery com-pared to healthy uterine myometrium. Calcium supplementation could have an effect on stop-ping the growth of myomas.
Lactoferrin B Combined with Antibiotics Exhibits Leukemic Selectivity and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Lica Jan Jakub , Gucwa Katarzyna , Heldt Mateusz , Stupak Anna , Maciejewska Natalia , Ptaszyńska Natalia , Łęgowska Anna , Pradhan Bhaskar , Gitling-Domagalska Agata , Dębowski Dawid , Jakóbkiewicz-Banecka Joanna , Rolka Krzysztof
Published: December 2023

The fusion of penetrating peptides (PPs) e.g., cell penetration peptides (CPP) or antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) together with aniti-micriobial agents is an expanding research field. Specific AMPs, such as Lactoferricin B (LfcinB), have demonstrated strong antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiparasitic activity, as well as valuable anticancer activity, proving beneficial in the development of anticancer conjugates. The resulting conjugates offer potential dual functionality, acting as both an anticancer and antimicrobial agent. This is particularly important in treating leukemia through hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), where bacterial infections are a critical risk. Crucially, leukemic cells often have altered outer lipid membranes compared to healthy cells, making them highly sensitive to compounds that interfere with their membrane. In this communication, we revisited and reanalyzed our previous work on LfcinB and its conjugates, and conducted new experiments focusing on cell proliferation, changes in membrane asymmetric phosphatidylserine location, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial functions, and in vitro bacterial topoisomerase inhibition. We found that these selected conjugates exhibit a selective cytostatic effect, against leukemia compared to healthy and tumor cell types. Importantly, these conjugates also show antimicrobial and bactericidal properties, while generating a low level of ROS and minimally affecting mitochondrial functions in human cell cultures.
Tritordeum Bulel and Aucan: Promising Cultivars to Improve Health
Authors: De Caro Salvatore , Venezia Antonella , Di Stasio Luigia , Danzi Donatella , Pignone Domenico , Mamone Gianfranco , Iacomino Giuseppe
Published: December 2023

Tritordeum is an amphiploides species resulting from the hybridization between durum wheat (T. durum) and wild barley (H. chilense). This new cereal is considered a natural crop as it is obtained by traditional breeding techniques. Given its appreciable organoleptic characteristics, agronomic features, presence of interesting components, and good technological properties, tritordeum is of promising interest for the development of health-oriented foods. In this study, we evaluated two registered tritordeum cultivars, Bulel and Aucan. T. durum (Provenzal) was employed as the positive control. The extracted proteins were digested by gastric /pancreatic proteases and their biological effects on Caco-2 differentiated on transwell inserts were determined. Changes in cell viability, monolayer permeability, organization of F-actin microfilaments, and ER stress, triggered by protein-digested samples (DPs) were inspected. Our results showed that exposure to Provenzal-DPs promptly disrupted the tight junction barrier. Conversely, Aucan-DPs did not enhance monolayer permeability; whereas, Bulel-DPs exerted only slight effects. Provental-DPs-induced toxicity was also confirmed by changes in cell viability and by the deep reorganization of the enterocyte cytoskeleton. In contrast, Aucan-DPs and Bulel-DPs did not affect monolayer viability and cytoskeleton structure. Overall, our findings suggest that both tritordeum cultivars could be potential candidates for mitigating the toxicity of wheat flour.
Triphenylphosphonium Analogs of Short Peptide Related to Bactenecin 7 and Oncocin 112 as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Tereshchenkov Andrey G. , Khairullina Zimfira Z. , Volynkina Inna A. , Lukianov Dmitrii A. , Nazarov Pavel A. , Pavlova Julia A. , Tashlitsky Vadim N. , Razumova Elizaveta A. , Ipatova Daria A. , Timchenko Yury V. , Senko Dmitry A. , Efremenkova Olga V. , Paleskava Alena , Konevega Andrey L , Osterman Ilya A. , Rodin Igor A. , Sergiev Petr V. , Dontsova Olga A. , Bogdanov Alexey A. , Sumbatyan Natalia V.
Published: December 2023

Triphenylphosphonium (TPP) derivatives of a decapeptide related to sequences of bactenecin 7 (Bac7) and oncocin (Onc112) were synthesized and studied as potential antimicrobial compounds using various biochemical and microbiological assays. It was shown that while the reduction of the Bac7 length to 10 a.a. residues dramatically decreases the affinity to bacterial ribosomes, the modification of peptide with alkyl-TPP moieties leads to an increase in the affinity. New analogs which structure combines a decapeptide related to Bac7 and Onc112 — Bac(1-10, R/Y) — and TPP, attached to the C-terminal amino acid residue through alkylamide linkers, inhibit translation in vitro and are found to be more selective inhibitors of bacterial translation as compared with eukaryotic translation, than Onc112 and Bac7. Triphenylphosphonium analogs of a decapeptide related to Bac7 and Onc112 suppress the growth of both gram-negative bacteria, similar to Onc112 and Bac7, and gram-positive ones as alkyl-TPP derivatives, and also act against some resistant laboratory strains. Bac(1-10, R/Y)-C2-TPP, containing a short alkylamide linker between the decapeptide and TPP, is transferred into the E. coli cells via the SbmA transporter protein. TPP derivatives of the decapeptide Bac(1-10, R/Y) containing either decylamide or ethylamide linker cause B. subtilis membrane depolarization, similar to alkyl-TPP. The Bac(1-10, R/Y)-C2-TPP analog is proved to be non-toxic for mammalian cells by MTT-test.
Asymmetries Caused by Nonparaxiality and Spin-Orbit Interaction during Light Propagation in a Graded-Index Medium
Authors: Petrov Nikolai I.
Published: December 2023

Spin-orbit coupling and nonparaxiality effects during propagation of vortex vector light beams in a cylindrical graded-index waveguide are investigated by solving the full three-component field Maxwell’s equations. Symmetry breaking effects for left- and right-handed circularly polarized vortex light beams propagating in a rotationally symmetric graded-index optical fiber are considered. The mode-group delay in a graded-index fiber due to spin-orbit interaction is demonstrated. It is shown that the relative delay times between vortex pulses of opposite circular polarizations of the order of 10 ps/km can be observed in graded-index fibers for high-order topological charges.
Radiation Overuse in Intensive Care Units: A Cause for Concern
Authors: Zanon Chiara , Bini Costanza , Toniolo Alessandro , Benetti Tommaso , Quaia Emilio
Published: December 2023

Radiological imaging is essential for acute patient management in Intensive Care Units (ICUs); however, it introduces the risk of exposure to ionizing radiation. This review synthesizes research on radiation exposure in intensive care unit (ICU) settings, highlighting its rise during the COVID-19 pandemic and repetitive imaging. Our analysis extends to radiation safety thresholds, revealing that some ICU patients exceed annual occupational limits, emphasizing the need to balance diagnostic utility against potential long-term risks, such as cancer. Prospective studies have demonstrated an increase in the median Cumulative Effective Dose (CED) in patients with trauma over time, prompting calls for improved awareness and monitoring. Moreover, innovative dose-reduction strategies and optimized protocols, especially in neuro-ICU units, promise to mitigate these risks. This review highlights the essential but risky role of radiological imaging in critical care. It advocates rigorous radiation management protocols to safeguard patient health, while ensuring the continuity of high-quality medical care.
Effect of Potassium Iodide Solution on the Black Staining of Silver Diamine Fluoride - In Vitro Study
Authors: Karawia Inas Mahmoud , Mohamed Osama Safwat
Published: December 2023

Abstract:
Introduction: Sometimes carious lesions cannot be managed by caries removal and restoration, when there is no patient cooperation with the need to general anesthesia. Also, in pediatric and special care dentistry, there is often a need to stop lesion progression to allow individuals to become more able to cope with restorative treatment. One of the preferred dental treatments in these situations is applying silver diamine fluoride (SDF) SDF has main disadvantage which is the permanent black staining of carious lesions. To solve this problem, potassium iodide (KI) is used for reducing the degree of black staining in carious lesion.
Objectives: The study aimed to examine the effect of repeated application of saturated KI in different time intervals.
Materials and Methods: The study was experimental in vitro, included 60 human extracted permanent carious teeth. Teeth were divided randomly into 3 groups: Group 1(SDF only), Group 2 (SDF +KI applied daily) and Group 3 (SDF +KI applied weekly). Teeth images were obtained for color assessment; at baseline, immediately and after 2 & 4 weeks after application of tested materials. Teeth images were calibrated using ImageJ software and analyzed for the mean grey values.
Results: It was found that there was high significant difference in mean grey values between the 3 groups; immediately and at the 2 follow up periods (P˂0.05). Group 2 was the nearest to the white color.
Conclusions: KI application after SDF treatment was able to reduce the degree of black staining when compared with SDF alone. When KI was applied daily the color was significantly whiter than the color of weekly application.
Geometric Properties of a Linear Operator Involving Lambert Series and Rabotnov Function
Authors: Salah Jamal
Published: December 2023

In this study, we consider a Lambert series whose coefficients are the sum of divisors function. Utilizing the Lambert series in the sequel we introduce a normalized linear operator JR_(α,β) (z) by applying the convolution with Rabotnov function. We then, acquire sufficient conditions for JR_(α,β) (z) to be Univalent, Starlike and Convex respectively. In each component of this study, we expand the derived results by applying two Robin's inequalities, one of which is equivalent to the Riemann hypothesis.
Impact of Crustacean Morphology on Metachronal Propulsion: A Numerical Study
Authors: Cao Enbao , Kabala Zbigniew J.
Published: December 2023

Metachrony is defined as coordinated asynchronous movement throughout multiple appendages, such as the cilia of cells and swimmerets of crustaceans. We investigate the process of metachronal propulsion, notably used by species of crustaceans and microscopic cells to move through fluid. A rigid crustacean model with paddles moving in symmetric strokes was created to simulate metachronal movement. Coupled with the surrounding fluid domain, we employ the immersed boundary method to analyze fluid-structure interactions. To explore the effect of nonlinear morphology on the efficiency of metachronal propulsion, we generate and simulate a range of crustacean body shapes, from upward curves to downwards curves. We found that the highest propulsion velocity is achieved when the crustacean model morphology follows a downwards curve, specifically a parabola of leading coefficient k=−0.4. This curved morphology results in 4.5% higher velocity compared to the linear model. As k deviates from −0.4, the propulsion velocity decreases with increasing magnitude, forming a concave downward trend. The impact of body shape on propulsion velocity is shown by how the optimal velocity with k=−0.4 is 71.5% larger than the velocity at k=1. Overall, this study suggests that morphology has a significant impact on metachronal propulsion.
A Case Study to Evaluate the Horticultural Performance of Greenhouse Cherry Tomatoes Based on Progressive Growth Report (PGR), Productivity and Nutritional Composition.
Authors: Arshad Adnan , Draghici Elena Maria , Jerca Ionut Ovidiu , Ovidiu Jerca Ionut , Sovorn Chan , Badulescu Liliana Aurelia , Hussaan Muhammad
Published: December 2023

The dynamic process of plants’ growth is primarily influenced by interconnected biochemical and physiological activities that operate throughout different growing phases. These processes respond to environmental conditions, affecting plant development and productivity. The present studies were carried out to investigate greenhouse conditions' impact on winter-grown cherry tomatoes (Cheramy F1) in terms of growth, yield, and nutritional composition.Data was collected on various dates during the period extending from December 2022 to March 2023. The greenhouse temperature varies from 22°C to 25.47°C (avg. 21.20°C) during plant growth and from 20°C to 23.85°C during fruit-bearing. Average CO2 concentration was 349.19 ppm; average light was 240.93 w/m2. Measured growth parameters include plant height, leaf growth, stem diameter, leaf spacing, leaf count, leaf area, and inflorescence count per plant. The key results of this study revealed the progressive growth report (PGR), which predicted the daily potential growth rate of plants: plant height, 2.86 to 3.81 cm/day; growth rate of mature old leaf: 0.003988 m2/day; middle younger leaf: 0.008733 m2/day; top Nascent leaf: 0.010722 m2/day; three to five leaves per week; and one inflorescence per week. In our accidental observation, we observed that plants with different orientations and growing spots within the greenhouse responded differently in view of their growth parameters. A exceedingly significant interaction among the inflorescence was found in view of length of inflorescence, number of fruits inflorescence, total fruit mass inflorescence, average fruit mass inflorescence, fruit dry matter inflorescence, fruit height inflorescence, and fruit diameter inflorescence. A non-significant interaction was found between the fruit keeping quality (Shelf days), fruit size, and inflorescence number. Inflorescence with a high, lower leaf area appeared to have high productivity. The nutritional composition of fruit was also different among the inflorescences.. The study's goal is to investigate and gather data to test the hypothesis that changes in greenhouse conditions and the adoption of green management practices will directly influence plant growth attributes, productivity, and fruit quality. The findings of this research could be valuable for optimizing greenhouse operations to enhance crop yields and quality while also promoting environmental sustainability.
Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Food Sustainability Among Kuwait University Students
Authors: Malik Aisha , Nur Dr. Amrizal , Al-Tarrah Dr. Dana
Published: December 2023

Transitioning towards sustainable food systems and sustainable diets is critical in reducing environmental impact and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations General Assembly. This transition requires collaborative efforts across multiple stakeholders, including the general public’s knowledge and attitudes. To assess the knowledge and attitudes towards food sustainability we carried out a cross-sectional study among Kuwait University students with a total of 278 participants aged ≥18 years (78% females and 22% males). A validated questionnaire was used for this study. Most respondents (>70%) recognized the concept of “local food” and “environmental impact.” The concept “green water-blue water” was least recognized among respondents (75%). Participants perceived that a sustainable diet was rich in vegetables, included plenty of fresh products and was affordable. Participants (>66%) perceived that a positive impact of meat and its derivatives towards sustainability, a misconception most common among males. Overall, participants with more knowledge about environmental concepts showed favorable attitudes towards a sustainable diet. Women showed more interest in changing their current dietary habits towards food sustainability. In conclusion, despite participants’ positive attitude towards food sustainability, lack of understanding persists, necessitating public health interventions aimed at educating consumers about sustainable diets and its impact on the environment.
Sustainable polypropylene-based composites with agro-waste fillers: thermal, morphological, mechanical properties, and dimensional stability.
Authors: Zhiltsova Tatiana , Campos Jéssica , Costa Andreia , Oliveira Mónica S. A.
Published: December 2023

Natural Fibre Composites (NFC) are eco-friendly, sustainable alternatives to synthetic polymers. However, some intrinsic natural fillers´ properties hinder their widespread implementation as re-inforcement in polymeric matrices and require further investigation. In the scope of this study, the thermal, rheologic, mechanical (tension and flexural modes), morphological properties, water ab-sorption and dimensional stability of the NF polypropylene (PP) based injection moulded compo-sites with the rice husk (rh) and olive pits (op) of 20 wt% and 30% wt%, were investigated. The results suggest that the higher content of the rice husk and olive pits led to a similar reduction of the Melt Flow Index (MFI), independent of the additive type compared to virgin polypropylene (PPv). The melting and crystallization temperatures of the PPrh and PPop composites did not change with statistical significance. The composites are stiffer than the PP matrix by up to 49% and possess higher mechanical strength in what concerns the tension mode at the expense of de-creased ductility. PPrh and PPop have superior flexural modulus in the bending mode, while the flexural strength improvement was accomplished for the PP30%rh. The dimensional stability of the composites was improved as the linear shrinkage in the flow direction was decreased by 49% for PPrh and 30% for PPop, positively correlating with an increase in the filler content and stiff-ness. PPop was less susceptible to water sorption than PPrh due to fibres' composition and larger surface-to-area volume ratios.
Noncoding RNAs and N6-Methyladenosine Involved in the Development of MAFLD
Authors: Nakashima Moeka , Suga Naoko , Ikeda Yuka , Yoshikawa Sayuri , Matsuda Satoru
Published: December 2023

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) including circular RNAs (circRNAs) and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) have been shown to play a critical role in the development of various diseases including obesity and metabolic disorder-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Obesity is a chronic disease considered by excessive fat accumulation in the body, which has been increased lately and is the foremost risk factor for the MAFLD. Causes of obesity may involve the interaction of genetic, behavioral, and social factors. The m6A RNA methylation might add a novel inspiration for understanding the development of obesity and MAFLD with post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. In particular, circRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs) and m6A might be implicated in the progression of MAFLD. Interestingly, m6A modification could modulate the translation, degradation, and other functions of ncRNAs. miRNAs/circRNAs could also modulate m6A modifications by affecting writers, erasers, and readers. In turn, ncRNAs could modulate the expression of m6A regulators in different ways. However, there is limited evidence on how these ncRNAs and m6A interact to affect the promotion of liver diseases. M6A has been appeared to occur in DNA, RNA and proteins, which may be associated with several biological properties. This study would provide a mechanistic understanding of the m6A modification and ncRNAs in the association on liver diseases, especially for MAFLD. Comprehension of the association between m6A modification and ncRNAs may contribute to the development of treatment tactics for MAFLD.
A Multifunctional Cementitious Composite for Pavement Subgrade
Authors: Roshan Mohammad Jawed , Abedi Mohammadmahdi , Gomes Correia António , Raul Fangueiro , Mendes Paulo M.
Published: December 2023

Premature failure and degradation of layers are the main problems for transportation infrastruc-ture. Addressing these issues necessitates implementing structural health monitoring (SHM) for transportation layers. This strategic approach is instrumental in mitigating maintenance expenses, prolonging the operational lifespan, and preventing accidents resulting from abrupt layer col-lapse. To this end, this research investigated the stress/strain and damage detection capabilities of a self-sensing cementitious composite developed for potential utilization in the construction of an intelligent subgrade layer. The prepared self-sensing cementitious composite consisted of 10% cement and hybrid conductive fillers, including multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) in sand. Initial findings reveal that the electrical resistivity of the composite is significantly affected by the concentration of MWCNTs/GNPs, with a minimum concentration of more than 0.5% needed to achieve a responsive cementitious composite. More-over, the piezoresistive analysis indicates that an increase in the concentration of MWCNTs/GNPs and stress levels leads to an improvement in the stress/strain sensing perfor-mance. When the self-sensing cementitious composite is subjected to equivalent stress levels, variations in the FCR exhibit an increasing trend with decreasing resilient modulus, stemming from a decrease in stiffness due to the increased concentration of MWCNTs/GNPs. Additionally, the EIS analysis demonstrates a contraction for the Nyquist curves under compressive ramp loading prior to failure, followed by the expansion of these curves postfailure. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images visually showcase the bridging effects of MWCNTs and the filling ef-fects of GNPs within the composite structure.
Full-Duplex 60GHz Transceiver with Digital Self-Interference Cancellation
Authors: Wang Yisheng , Thangarasu Bharatha Kumar , Mahalingam Nagarajan , Ma Kaixue , Meng Fanyi , Huang Yibo , Yeo Kiat Seng
Published: December 2023

This paper presents the design and measurement of an IEEE 802.11ad standard compatible RF transceiver for 60GHz wireless communication system. In addition to the traditional half-duplex (HD) mode, this work supports full-duplex (FD) operation to deliver better channel utilization and faster response time for the system. The isolation between the transmitter and receiver from the architecture design to system integration for FD operation has been fully considered. A digital self-interference cancellation (DSIC) is implemented in MATLAB to verify the FD performance. The super-heterodyne architecture with an intermediate frequency (IF) of 12GHz is designed to suppress the image frequencies without using extra filters. A flexible phase-locked loop (PLL) synthesizer provides a local oscillator (LO) frequency with a 2kHz resolution. Other than the time division duplex (TDD) mode used in the conventional 60GHz system, a wide bandwidth baseband digital variable gain amplifier (DVGA) with a 3dB bandwidth of more than 4GHz also supports frequency division duplex (FDD) operation. The transceiver chip is fabricated in Tower Jazz 0.18µm SiGe BiCMOS process. With on-board antenna, the transceiver covers all four channels in 802.11ad standard with MCS-12 (7.04Gbps under 1.76GSym/s and 16-QAM) under 1.5m. In the proposed system design, the RF frontend based self-interference (SI) suppression from the local transmitter to receiver LNA is around 54dB. To achieve a practical FD application, the SI is further suppressed with the help of digital SI compensation. The measured power consumption for transmitter and receiver configuration is 194mW and 231mW, respectively, in HD mode and 398mW for FDD or FD operation mode.
Towards More Precise Targeting of Inhaled Aerosols to Different Areas of the Respiratory System
Authors: Sosnowski Tomasz R.
Published: December 2023

Pharmaceutical aerosols play a key role in the treatment of lung disorders, but also systemic diseases, due to their ability to target specific areas of the respiratory system (RS). This article focuses on identifying and clarifying the influence of various factors involved in the generation of aerosol micro- and nanoparticles on their regional distribution and deposition in the RS. Attention is given to the importance of process parameters during aerosolization of liquids or powders and the role of aerosol flow dynamics in RS. The interaction of deposited particles with the fluid environment of the lung is also pointed out as an important step in the mass transfer of the drug to the RS surface. The analysis presented highlights the technical aspects of preparing the precursors to ensure that the properties of the aerosol are suitable for a given therapeutic target. Analyzing existing technical limitations, several potential strategies for enhancing the efficiency of targeted therapeutic delivery to or through the respiratory system are identified and presented, including the use of smart inhaling devices incorporating AI algorithms.
Comprehensive transcriptome profiling of T-2 toxin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice
Authors: Wu Guoquan , Wu Xuan , Wu Yige , Wu Yuping , Li Hui , Dai Chongshan
Published: December 2023

Trichothecene mycotoxin T-2 toxin is an important environmental pollutant and poses a global threat to human and animal health. T-2 toxin could induce nephrotoxicity, however, the precise molecular mechanism remains unclear. In this study, the mice were intraperitoneally administrated with a single dose of 2 mg/kg T-2 toxin. The kidney function and ultrastructural observation were also assessed and found T-2 toxin exposure could cause kidney damage. Transmission electron microscopy showed a significant swelling and vacuolization of the mitochondria of renal cell. A total of 1122, 58, and 391 differential expression genes (DEGs) that were predominantly expressed in kidney tissues at 1 d, 3 d, and 7 d after T-2 toxin exposure, respectively. Early transcriptomic changes at 1 d after exposure were down-regulation of DEGs involved in the cell cycle, p53 signaling pathway, and cellular senescence, while up-regulation of DEGs referred to the ribosome pathway. The temporal variations in gene expression pattern in T-2 toxin exposure in mice kidney were presented and cellular metabolism was disturbed at the exposure recovery period with 7 d. In conclusion, this study, for the first time, provided a comprehensive comparative transcriptomic analysis of gene regulation in T-2 toxin exposure-induced nephrotoxicity at different temporal periods and explored the nephrotoxicity mechanism of T-2 toxin at the mRNA level.
Analysis of Anakinra therapy for the Deficiency of Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist through Clinical Evidence
Authors: Pillai Kathryn , Pillai Joshua , Ling Jun
Published: December 2023

Deficiency of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (DIRA) is a rare life-threatening autosomal recessive autoinflammatory disease with symptoms including but not limited to osteomyelitis, periostitis, and systemic inflammation. DIRA is developed from the loss-of-function mutations of IL1RN gene that encodes IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA), leading to the unchecked pro-inflammatory signaling and subsequent systemic inflammation. Thus, Anakinra as the recombinant IL-1RA has become the primary drug to treat DIRA. Although Anakinra has been effective for complete remission of DIRA, it also showed various side effects. To further address its efficacy and safety in treating DIRA, a review of literature was conducted in this study. We have identified 15 papers with 25 patients studied, making it possible to conduct reliable statistical analyses. The literature review found that continual treatment with Anakinra is effective to cause clinical remission of DIRA. Statistical analyses found that after the treatment with Anakinra, patients had improved Hemoglobin, Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, and C-reactive Protein levels. All known cytogenetic abnormalities were also analyzed to inform clinicians for genetic screening and rapid diagnosis of DIRA. The results from this study provide a comprehensive view for further improving the treatment of DIRA by Anakinra.
¿Venalidad o Venalidades? Ánalisis económico de las ventas de oficios en la Castilla moderna (1543-1714)
Authors: Gómez Blanco Víctor Manuel
Published: December 2023

Este artículo analiza los distintos canales de venta de oficios locales en Castilla durante los siglos XVI y XVII. Para ello, empleamos una base de datos propia que contiene 1.910 ventas y 4.157 renuncias de regidores, veinticuatros, procuradores número y diversos escribanos (del número, cámara, crimen, provincia, etc.) en varias ciudades castellanas entre 1543 y 1714. A través del análisis exhaustivo de estos datos, clasificamos los canales en directos e indirectos, y probamos que la elección de cada tipo de canal por parte de la Corona tuvo una razón económica basada en los costes de transacción crecientes y los rendimientos de ventas decrecientes. Además, demostramos que la Corona logró ser en sus ventas al menos tan eficiente como los particulares y que los precios de las ventas negociadas no difirieron estadísticamente de los de las subastas públicas, lo que representa un indicio de la ausencia de problemas de información privada y mercados competitivos.
Zero as a Revolutionary Concept
Authors: Asyatibi Ala' Annajib , Wedhari Ungu Fabilla Nimas , Afifah Thohiroh
Published: December 2023

Perkembangan ilmu pengetahuan dan teknologi modern menjadi pusat dari peran dan kontribusi Islam. Tercatat banyak dari kalangan muslim yang turut serta dalam perkembangan matematika modern dan menyusun kontribusi revolusioner yang membentuk dasar-dasar matematika modern. Pada penelitian ini, peneliti menggunakan metode studi literatur (library research), adapun analisis datanya menggunakan content analysis. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk: 1) memberikan informasi kepada para pembaca mengenai kontribusi Islam dalam perkembangan matematika modern, 2) memotivasi para pembaca agar memiliki semangat belajar seperti halnya para ilmuwan muslim pada masa itu. Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa dengan ditemukannya angka nol oleh oleh Al Khawarizmi menjadi sebuah konsep revolusioner dalam berbagai bidang ilmu eksakta. Hal ini juga menjadi pertanda bahwa kontribusi para ilmuwan muslim banyak membawa dampak berkelanjutan bagi perkembangan ilmu pengetahuan dan teknologi di era modern terutama pada bidang matematika modern.

Kata Kunci: Nol, Kontribusi Islam, Matematika, Ilmuwan Muslim
Energy Efficiency of Using Hybrid Heating Points in Conditions of Integration of Electrical and Thermal Networks of Urban Neighborhoods. Part 1. Justification of the Feasibility of Using Hybrid Thermal Points
Authors: Sednin A. V. , Pozdnyakova M. I.
Published: December 2023

The paper discusses the circumstances and technical solutions that contribute to the integration of electrical and thermal networks of urban neighborhoods within the framework of a surplus of electricity generating capacities arising from the imbalance in the development of energy generation and consumption, stochastic processes of market economy development, the transfer of energy-intensive industrial production to other countries, the desire to diversify fuel energy resources, passion for the construction of energy sources for alternative energy resources in counterbalance to traditional energy facilities without taking into account all aspects of the interaction of the former with the environment, etc. With regard to district heating systems of electrical and thermal networks of urban neighborhoods, the use of hybrid heating points is achieved, which, unlike standard solutions, are equipped with electric boilers, thermal accumulators and heat pumps. According to the time of use of generating capacities, preference should be given to options for covering the hot-water load. Based on the average daily load, the power usage time in this case lies in the range of 6000–6500 hours / year. When choosing the capacity of the equipment, it should be borne in mind that the daily load of hot water supply is extremely uneven and also depends on the  day of the week, while the maximum load exceeds the average daily by 2.5 – 3.0 times. When integrating electricity and heat supply systems, it is advisable to consider options for only night-time electricity consumption or night-time consumption plus consumption during the hours of daytime failures of the electricity consumption schedule. If during the new construction the power of the electrical network may vary depending on the selected option, then during the modernization of the heat supply system, the problem is solved if there is a limitation on the available electrical power. Therefore, the definition of these restrictions is a separate issue. In comparison with the direct consumption of electricity for the needs of heat supply, which is a priori energetically and economically inefficient, the use of hybrid systems in heat supply allows us to solve the multifunctional task of increasing the reliability of energy supply and the stability of the functioning of the power system, which is primarily achieved by solving the problem of balancing the capacity of production and energy consumption from the position of aligning  schedules of energy generation and consumption.
Undergraduate Student Perspectives on Employability: A Mixed Methods Exploration of Nutrition Student Career Awareness, Confidence, and Preparedness
Authors: Ng Ashley , Reddy Anj , Horvath Deanna , Larsen Amy , Biesiekierski Jessica , Croxford Sharon , Bramley Andrea , McLeod Susan , Stirling Emma , Murray Emily , Forsyth Adrienne
Published: December 2023

There is a growing need for nutrition graduates to fill diverse roles that will address emerging health priorities including community-based chronic disease prevention, personalised nutrition, digital health, and innovations in food and agriculture. Little is known about how well universities are preparing nutrition students to fill these roles. The aim of this study was to explore undergraduate nutrition students’ career awareness, confidence, and preparedness. A secondary aim was to explore their perspectives regarding employability initiatives within the university curriculum. A mixed methods approach was used, including semi-structured focus groups to gain in-depth insights and surveys to expand and diversify the study population, enhancing validity and transferability of the findings. Results of the focus groups were analysed thematically using an inductive approach. Initial themes informed the survey with closed questions analysed using descriptive statistics and open questions analysed thematically. Seven students participated in focus groups and 73 completed the survey. Common themes arising from the focus group and survey responses included a lack of awareness of roles available to nutritionists, lack of placement experience seen as a link to understanding what nutritionists do and getting that first job, and life experiences and personal circumstances influencing career pathways. Practical opportunities for nutrition students to develop their career awareness, confidence, and preparedness should be a key consideration in the design of the undergraduate nutrition curricula.
Analysis of carbon balance in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Anhui provinces based on land use dynamics
Authors: Ma Dongmei , Li kongqing
Published: December 2023

With global warming, the continuous increase of carbon emissions has undoubtedly become a difficult problem faced by mankind, and studying regional carbon balance is essential to promote the benign development of socio-economic and natural ecosystems and achieve the goal of "dual carbon". Taking Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Anhui provinces as examples, this study collects remote sensing images of land use types in the three provinces from 2010 to 2020, and analyzes the temporal and spatial dynamics of land use in the study area over the past ten years. On this basis, the net carbon emissions of the three provinces were calculated using the carbon emissions and carbon sink functions of land use to measure the carbon balance of the study area. The actual study found that the study area has been in a state of "carbon deficit", and the net carbon emissions have shown a continuous growth trend. Carbon emissions from land use are on the rise year by year, but the growth rate has slowed down. Based on the above results and analysis, this study puts forward policy suggestions for optimizing land use structure, changing land use mode and strengthening macro-control, in order to provide case reference and theoretical basis for regional carbon emission management.
Major sources of particulate organic matter in the Godavari River, India: Role of synthetic fertilizers
Authors: Kris Moturi Srirama , Naidu Sura Appala , Prasad Mamidala Hari Krishna , Subbaiah Chereddy Venkata , Reddy Nalla Purna Chander , Srinivasa Neerukattu
Published: December 2023

In this study, we examined major sources of particulate organic matter (POM) in Godavari River during high flow and low flow periods, to understand the impact of excess N-fertilizers used in agricultural fields. δ13CPOC and δ15NPN, elemental C:N and POC:Chl-a ratios indicated that in-situ sources predominantly contributed (~ 60%) during low flow period, whereas, terrestrial sources largely contributed during high flow period (75–80%). This is attributed to prevailing conducive conditions for phytoplankton growth during former, and increased transport of particulate and dissolved materials from land during latter period. δ15NPN during low flow (7.4 ± 2.9‰) and high flow (9.4 ± 2.1‰) periods demonstrate that contribution of POM produced from N-fertilizers (δ15NPN: 0 ± 1‰) is not significant, rather than hitherto hypothesized. It could be due to seepage of excess N-fertilizers used in agricultural fields into groundwaters rather than transporting to rivers and/or transformation to another from through nitrification/denitrification processes within soils.
A Study on the mechanical and electrical performance of Al/Cu laser multi-seam welded joints
Authors: Yoon HyeSeul , Eun YoungJin , Bang Hee-Seon
Published: December 2023

Aluminum alloy and copper used in lithium-ion batteries have low absorption and high reflectivity, so it is difficult to obtain stable joint strength when laser welding is applied. In order to overcome problems, this study has applied multi-seam weld to increase joint area of welded joints. An AA1050-H18 and C11020P sheets with a thickness of 0.5 mm were welded by 2 kW fiber laser welding. Effect of the welding parameters of pitch (0, 1, 4, 8 mm) on weldability in welded joints has been investigated. As the pitch of multi-seam increased, the tensile-shear load tended to increase. The maximum tensile-shear load in the multi-seam weld of pitch 8 mm was 1.25 kN, which was about 108% compared to the single-weld seam 0.6 kN. In addition, the minimum electrical resistance was 77 μΩ at the pitch of 8 mm, which decreased by approximately 49% compared to 115 μΩ of single seam welding. It is thought because resistance reduction caused by be changed from serial to parallel in multi-seam welding.
The World Trade Center Exposome and Health Effects in 9/11 Rescue and Recovery Workers
Authors: Rechtman Elza , Rodriguez Michelle , Colicino Elena , Hahn Christopher , Navarro Esmeralda , Invernizzi Azzurra , Dasaro Christopher , Teitelbaum Susan , Todd Andrew , Horton Megan
Published: December 2023

In the aftermath of the World Trade Center (WTC) attack, rescue and recovery workers faced hazardous conditions and toxic agents. Prior research linked these exposures to adverse health effects, but mainly examined individual factors, overlooking complex mixture effects. This study applies an exposomic approach encompassing the totality of responders' experience, defined as the WTC exposome. We analyzed data from 34,096 members of the WTC Health Program General Responder, including mental and physical health, occupational history, traumatic and environmental exposures using generalized weighted quantile sum regression. We find a significant association between the exposure mixture index all investigated health outcomes. Factors identified as risk factors include working in an enclosed heavily contaminated area, construction occupation, and exposure to blood and body fluids. Conversely, full-time employment emerged as a protective factor. This exposomics study emphasizes the importance of considering combined exposures. In an era marked by more frequent and severe natural disasters due to the evolving climate crisis, the exposomic framework holds promise as a valuable tool for disaster preparedness.
Direct observation of coherent azobenzene photochemistry
Authors: Standfuss Jörg , Weinert Tobias , Wranik Maximillian , Church Jonathan , Seidel Hans Peter , Slavov Chavdar , Masini Tiziana , James Daniel , Glover Hannah , Carrillo Melissa , Kekilli Demet , Stipp Robin , Skopintsev Petr , Bruenle Steffen , Gaillard Natacha , Furrer Antonia , Gashi Dardan , Mühlethaler Tobias , Beale John , Nass Karol , Johnson Philip , Cirelli Claudio , Ozerov Dmitry , Dworkowski Florian , Bacellar Camila , Milne Christopher , Steinmetz Michel , Wachtveitl Josef , Schapiro Igor
Published: December 2023

Molecular photoswitches are versatile natural or synthetic molecules that undergo reversible conformational changes in response to light. In chemistry azobenzenes act as ubiquitous synthetic photoswitches1 with applications ranging from opto-electronics2, over molecular machines3 to photopharmacology4. Their isomerization mechanism defines their molecular properties and yet is controversially debated, as the underlying ultrafast photochemistry is challenging to resolve in time and space. In this study, we have used an X-ray Free Electron Laser to observe coherent structural transitions in the prototypical photoswitch azo-combretastatin A4 bound to its protein target tubulin. A molecular movie assembled from a crystallographic femtosecond scan and snapshots of kinetic intermediates in the femto-to-nanosecond range show how the cis isomer overcomes energy barriers in the excited state, traverses the conical intersection into a twisted ground state conformation, cools, stretches and finally relaxes into a planarized trans conformer. Our crystallographic data at near-atomic resolution contrasted with femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopic data and quantum chemical trajectories provides an experimental and theoretical description of the ultrafast azobenzene photoreaction. These fundamental insights reveal surprising parallels between natural and synthetic photoswitches opening a route for the design of artificial photoswitching proteins.