bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different Methods to Modify the Hydrophilicity of Titanium Implants with Biomimetic Surface Topography to Induce Variable Responses in Bone Marrow Stromal Cells
Authors: Jacobs Thomas W. , Dillon Jonathan T. , Cohen David J. , Boyan Barbara D. , Schwartz Zvi
Published: April 2024

The osteoblastic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells (bMSCs), critical to the osseointegration of titanium implants, is enhanced on titanium surfaces with biomimetic topography, and this is further enhanced when the surfaces are hydrophilic. This is a result of changing the surface free energy to change protein adsorption, improving cell attachment and differentiation, and improving bone-to-implant contact in patients. In this study, we examined different methods of plasma treatment, a well-accepted method of increasing hydrophilicity, and evaluated changes in surface properties as well as the response of bMSCs in vitro. Commercially pure Ti and titanium–aluminum–vanadium (Ti6Al4V) disks were sand-blasted and acid-etched to impart microscale and nanoscale roughness, followed by treatment with various post-processing surface modification methods, including ultraviolet light (UV), dielectric barrier discharge (DBD)-generated plasma, and plasma treatment under an argon or oxygen atmosphere. Surface wettability was based on a sessile water drop measurement of contact angle; the elemental composition was analyzed using XPS, and changes in topography were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal imaging. The cell response was evaluated using bMSCs; outcome measures included the production of osteogenic markers, paracrine signaling factors, and immunomodulatory cytokines. All plasma treatments were effective in inducing superhydrophilic surfaces. Small but significant increases in surface roughness were observed following UV, DBD and argon plasma treatment. No other modifications to surface topography were noted. However, the relative composition of Ti, O, and C varied with the treatment method. The cell response to these hydrophilic surfaces depended on the plasma treatment method used. DBD plasma treatment significantly enhanced the osteogenic response of the bMSCs. In contrast, the bMSC response to argon plasma-treated surfaces was varied, with an increase in OPG production but a decrease in OCN production. These results indicate that post-packaging methods that increased hydrophilicity as measured by contact angle did not change the surface free energy in the same way, and accordingly, cells responded differently. Wettability and surface chemistry alone are not enough to declare whether an implant has an improved osteogenic effect and do not fully explain how surface free energy affects cell response.
How to Assess Oral Narrative Skills of Children and Adolescents with Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sánchez-Gómez Victoria , Verdugo Miguel Ángel , Calvo María Isabel , Amor Antonio M. , Palomero-Sierra Blanca , Zampini Laura
Published: April 2024

Children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities (ID) often encounter difficulties with narrative skills. Yet, there is a lack of research focusing on how to assess these skills in this population. This study offers an overview of the tools used for assessing oral narrative skills in children and adolescents with ID, addressing key questions about common assessment tools, their characteristics, and reported evidence. A systematic review was conducted of the literature published between 2010 and 2023 in the PsycINFO, ERIC, Education, and Psychology databases. An initial 1176 studies were reviewed by abstract, of which 485 were read in full text, leading to the selection and analysis of 22 studies. Most of the identified tools involve analyzing language samples obtained using wordless picture story books. Three common tools are emphasized. Studies have primarily identified inter-rater reliability and test-criterion evidence for validity. The main tools and their characteristics are discussed in depth to aid readers in discerning suitable options for research or practical applications. The importance of reporting diverse sources of evidence for validity and reliability within this population is highlighted.
Hybrid Study of Quantitative–Qualitative Analysis to Recognize the Most Cost-Effectiveness Criteria to Develop Affordable Mass Housing
Authors: Faraji Amir , Meydani Haji Agha Tahereh , Homayoon Arya Shima , Ghasemi Elnaz , Rahnamayiezekavat Payam
Published: April 2024

Nowadays, providing housing for the low-income groups of society is a concern for governments, especially in developing nations. An attempt has been made to recognize the most significant real criteria for reducing housing project costs and providing affordable housing for them by studying previous research and analyzing the collected information. First, the resources compiled in the field of affordable housing were reviewed, and data were gathered. Next, qualitative and quantitative questionnaires were provided, and the experts’ answers were analyzed in three steps (Delphi technique, AHP techniques, and case studies). By analyzing the findings, it was concluded that the current approaches in housing planning need to be revised to achieve the government’s goals and policies. Therefore, the physical indicators and patterns of vernacular and traditional houses in different climatic regions should be known and changed in the next step according to the needs of the modern world. The adaptation of today’s architecture from the vernacular architectural features of the past is one of the important things that should be considered. In this research, the consideration of housing preparation for low-income groups and reducing housing project costs, by identifying the most important effective criteria mentioned in other previous studies, is the novel contribution of this research.
Solidification Mechanism and Strength Characteristics of Alkali-Activated Tannery Sludge–Slag Geopolymer
Authors: Chen Shoukai , Duan Peidong , Zhao Mengdie , Shi Haibo , Bie Yajing
Published: April 2024

The aim of this article is to reduce the environmental harm caused by industrial solid waste, specifically tannery sludge, and enable its reutilization. This study prepared an alkali-activated tannery sludge–slag solidification product (ATSSP) with high mechanical properties using blast furnace slag and tannery sludge as raw materials. The response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the product mix ratio. The hydration mechanism and solidification method of ATSSP for Cr in tannery sludge were studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive spectrometer (SEM-EDS), and Fourier transform infrared reflection (FT-IR). The results indicate that the compressive strength regression model established through RSM has high accuracy and credibility. When the ratio of activator to binder is 0.2174, the alkali activation modulus is 1.02, and the water-to-cement ratio is 0.37; the 28 d compressive strength of ATSSP can reach 71.3 MPa. The sulfate in tannery sludge can promote the secondary hydration reaction of slag, and the generated hydrated calcium silicate and calcite greatly improve the strength of the ATSSP. The reducing substances contained in slag can reduce Cr (VI) in tannery sludge to Cr (III) in the form of uvarovite. The total Cr and Cr (VI) precipitation concentrations of the product are far less than the specification requirements.
Metabolic Alteration Bridging the Prediabetic State and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Colloca Antonino , Donisi Isabella , Anastasio Camilla , Balestrieri Maria Luisa , D’Onofrio Nunzia
Published: April 2024

Prediabetes and colorectal cancer (CRC) represent compelling health burdens responsible for high mortality and morbidity rates, sharing several modifiable risk factors. It has been hypothesized that metabolic abnormalities linking prediabetes and CRC are hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and adipokines imbalance. The chronic stimulation related to these metabolic signatures can favor CRC onset and development, as well as negatively influence CRC prognosis. To date, the growing burden of prediabetes and CRC has generated a global interest in defining their epidemiological and molecular relationships. Therefore, a deeper knowledge of the metabolic impairment determinants is compelling to identify the pathological mechanisms promoting the onset of prediabetes and CRC. In this scenario, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview on the metabolic alterations of prediabetes and CRC as well as an overview of recent preventive and therapeutic approaches for both diseases, focusing on the role of the metabolic state as a pivotal contributor to consider for the development of future preventive and therapeutic strategies.
Premature Babies Can Be Cared for in the Maternity Ward without an Increased Risk and Discharged with a Feeding Tube If Necessary
Authors: Rösch Lea , Hofstätter Edda , Krasnitzer-Leitner Franziska , Wald Martin
Published: April 2024

In general, premature babies are discharged home when they reach full self-feeding. We established a discharge management protocol which allows for discharging late preterm babies with a feeding tube if necessary. This retrospective study included 108 preterm infants (34+ weeks) born in 2019 and 2020. The preterm infants discharged with a feeding tube (n = 32) were born at 35.23 weeks’ gestation (±0.884), with a birth weight of 2423 g (±375.1), and were discharged at 7.22 days (±3.63) and had a weight of 3466 g (±591.3) at the first outpatient visit around the expected birth date. The preterm infants discharged without a feeding tube were born at 35.97 weeks’ gestation (±0.702) with a birth weight of 2589 g (±424.84), discharged home at 6.82 days (±7.11) and a weight of 3784 g (±621.8) at the first outpatient visit. The gestational week and birth weight were statistically significantly different between the groups, with a p-value of <0.001 for each, and the length of hospital stay (p = 0.762) and weight at follow-up (p = 0.064) did not significantly differ. No infant required tube-feeding at the time of the first outpatient visit, i.e., the time of expected birth. Therefore, with well-thought-out management, it is possible and safe to discharge preterm infants home with a feeding tube.
Carbon Atom Distribution and Impact Toughness of High-Carbon Bainitic Steel
Authors: Long Xiaoyan , Dai Zhao , Wang Wanshuai , Yang Zhinan , Zhang Fucheng , Li Yanguo
Published: April 2024

High-carbon nano bainitic steel is currently a hot research topic. The effect of the matrix’s carbon content and carbon atom distribution on the toughness of high-silicon, high-carbon bainitic steel is studied. The microstructure under an incomplete austenitization process consists of undissolved carbides, bainitic ferrite, and retained austenite. Using this process, the carbon content in bainitic ferrite is relatively low. Under the complete austenitization process, the carbon content in the bainite ferrite in the sample is high, and there is more retained austenite in the blocky type. The sample exhibits high impact toughness under an incomplete austenitization process, which is mainly affected by the low carbon content of bainite ferrite, high coordination ability of retained austenite, and high interface density of microstructure. The EBSD results show that the crack easily propagates between parallel bainite laths with low interface density compared with the high interface density perpendicular to the laths.
Numerical Simulation of Infiltration Behavior of ZTAP/HCCI Composites
Authors: He Xu , Lu Yu , Li Xiangming , Zhou Mojin , Jiang Yehua
Published: April 2024

According to statistics, 80% of failed components in mechanical equipment are caused by various types of wear and corrosion. Therefore, in order to reduce material loss, research on wear-resistant materials is urgent. In order to solve the difficulty of directly observing the infiltration process of liquid metal in preform, this study first conducted infiltration experiments on liquid metal in ZTA ceramic particle preform at different pouring temperatures, and then used Fluent software to numerically simulate the infiltration behavior of liquid metal in preform. By changing parameters such as pouring temperature and infiltration pressure, the influence of these parameters on the penetration depth of liquid metal in prefabricated structures was determined. The research results indicate that when the pouring temperatures are 1420 °C, 1570 °C, 1720 °C, and 1870 °C, the infiltration depths are 4 mm, 8 mm, 11 mm, and 15 mm; when the casting infiltration pressures are 7620 Pa, 15,240 Pa, 22,860 Pa, and 30,480 Pa, the infiltration depths are 10 mm, 16 mm, 20 mm, and 22 mm. The simulation results of the pouring temperature on the infiltration depth are basically consistent with the experimental results.
Effects of Oxygen Content on Microstructure and Creep Property of Powder Metallurgy Superalloy
Authors: Liu Yufeng , Zhang Shaorong , Zhang Lichong , Zheng Liang , Li Zhou , Zhang Lin , Zhang Guoqing
Published: April 2024

The effects of oxygen content on the microstructure and creep properties of the FGH96 superalloy were investigated. When oxygen content increased from 135 ppm to 341 ppm, the prior particle boundary (PPB) rose from degree 2 to degree 3, the size of the γ′ phase on PPB enlarged from 1.07 μm to 1.27 μm, and the MC carbide size grew from 77.4 nm to 104.0 nm. Meanwhile, the steady creep rate accelerated from 4.34 × 10−3 h−1 to 1.87 × 10−2 h−1, and the creep rupture life shortened from 176 h to 94 h, the creep rupture mode transferred from intergranular and transgranular mixed fracture to along PPB fracture. During creep, the micro-twin formation and gliding will be restrained by ∑3 boundaries. FGH96 superalloy with higher oxygen content contains less ∑3 boundaries, and its micro-twins cross-slipped instead of single-direction slip in lower oxygen content superalloy. Consequently, samples with a higher oxygen content crept faster and ruptured earlier.
Discrepancies in Splenic Size Measurement: A Comparative Analysis of Ultrasound and Computed Tomography
Authors: Lee Hun Woo , Park Hee Sun , Park Sungeun , Yu Mi Hye , Kim Young Jun , Jung Sung Il
Published: April 2024

The accurate measurement of splenic size is essential for the diagnosis and management of various gastrointestinal and hematological conditions. While ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) are widely used imaging modalities for assessing splenic size, discrepancies between their measurements have been observed in clinical practice. This study aimed to analyze the measurement differences between US and CT and identify factors influencing these differences. A retrospective analysis of 598 asymptomatic patients who underwent both abdominal US and CT was conducted. Measurements of splenic size obtained from US, axial CT, and coronal CT scans were compared, and various factors such as patient demographics, operator experience, and imaging parameters were evaluated to elucidate their impact on the measurement discrepancies. The results revealed that US consistently underestimated splenic size compared to CT. The magnitude of the discrepancy was influenced by factors such as patient age, body mass index (BMI), depth of the spleen from skin on US and that on CT, visibility of the splenic hilum on US, sonic window quality, and operator experience. This study underscores the importance of considering these factors when interpreting splenic measurements obtained from different imaging modalities in clinical practice.
LUAEMA: A Loop Unrolling Approach Extending Memory Accessing for Vector Very-Long-Instruction-Word Digital Signal Processor with Multiple Register Files
Authors: Hu Yonghua , Cheng Aobo , Tang Zhuoyou , Liu Peng , Liang Wei
Published: April 2024

Loop unrolling can provide more instruction-level parallelism opportunities for code and enables a greater range of instruction pipeline scheduling. In high-performance very-long-instruction-word (VLIW) digital signal processors (DSPs), there are special registers to address. To further improve the instruction-level parallelism of code for such DSPs by making full use of these registers, in this paper, we propose a more effective loop unrolling approach through extending memory accessing (LUAEMA). In this approach, the final unrolling factor is computed by a model in which every register kind and every memory accessing operation are considered. For basic digital signal processing algorithms, the unrolling factor under the LUAEMA is larger than that under the conventional loop unrolling approach. We also provide the opportunity to reduce the number of instructions in a loop during the code transformation of loop unrolling. The experimental results show that the loop unrolling approach proposed in this paper can achieve an average speedup ratio ranging from 1.14 to 1.81 compared with the conventional loop unrolling approach. For some algorithms, the peak speedup ratio is up to 2.11.
Study on Primary Frequency Regulation Reserve Configuration of High Wind Power System Considering Governor Limiting Links
Authors: Wang Min , Xu Chunxing
Published: April 2024

With the large-scale use of wind turbines, the ability of the power system to resist frequency fluctuations has been greatly weakened, making the contradiction between frequency regulation supply and demand in the power system increasingly prominent. In order to ensure the frequency security of the power system, this paper conducts research on the primary frequency regulation (PR) backup configuration problem of a power system containing a high proportion of wind power. First, according to the dynamic properties of the speed regulator, a system frequency response model considering the limiting link is established. And the system frequency response model is transformed into a time-domain analytical function of PR reserve capacity and frequency maximum value. On this basis, a PR backup configuration model of a power system containing a high proportion of wind power is constructed with the optimization goal of minimizing system operating costs and taking into account the limiting link constraints. It is proposed to use the L-shape algorithm to decompose the model into main problems and sub-problems, which effectively reduces the solution complexity of the model. Finally, the correctness and effectiveness of this model are verified based on the improved IEEE 39-bus system.
Volume II: Energy Management Systems for Optimal Operation of Electrical Micro/Nanogrids
Authors: Di Piazza Maria Carmela
Published: April 2024

Electrical microgrids (MG) have emerged as one of the most promising solutions for the energy transition of electrical power systems [...]
Non-Weighted Two-Stage Model Predictive Control Strategy Based on Three-Level NPC Inverter
Authors: Wang Guifeng , Li Peiru , Wang Yu
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates the asynchronous motors driven by a Three-Level Neutral-Point-Clamped Voltage Source Inverter (3L-NPC-VSI) and aims to achieve control without weight factors and reduce torque ripple. It puts forward a non-weighted two-stage Finite-Control-Set Model Predictive Control (FCS-MPC) strategy. First, a hierarchical optimization method is adopted to address the difficulty of setting weight factors in traditional FCS-MPC applications. The method offers stratified designs of three performance indices, voltage jump, common-mode voltage, and current tracking, obviating the need for weight factor setting and reducing the calculation load of predictions. Secondly, to further mitigate torque ripple, an optimal vector or vector combination is implemented at the current control layer by adhering to the principle of minimal current tracking error. During the selection of the optimal vector combination, the first vector of the combination is chosen to be the vector at the end of the present cycle. This ensures that there is at most one switch within each control period, reducing the switching losses of the two-stage FCS-MPC. Lastly, detailed simulation and experimental analyses are conducted to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed strategy.
Consumer Preferences for Wood-Pellet-Based Green Pricing Programs in the Eastern United States
Authors: Oluoch Sydney , Lal Pankaj , Susaeta Andres , Smith Meghann , Wolde Bernabas
Published: April 2024

Co-firing wood pellets with coal is an attractive alternative energy generation method with economic, social, and environmental benefits for the US energy generation sector. One way to sustainably use wood pellets for co-firing is to create consumer-supported green pricing programs (GPPs). Our study surveyed residents of five states (Alabama, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia) to investigate preferences for the attributes of a hypothetical GPP. The study applied the Best Worst Choice method, which employs the Best Worst Scaling (BWS) and binary choice (BC) task. The BWS analysis showed that residents of all five states most value the flexibility of contracts, the location of energy generation, and the reduction of carbon emissions as attributes of GPPs. The BC analysis, however, showed that residents are willing to pay a premium for length of contract, followed by reduction of carbon emissions and variability of payments. This study shows that the adoption of optimal GPP attributes can create real customer value. The success of GPPs will depend on increasing enrollment and public support; hence, the next step will be to increase awareness levels and green consciousness through sensitization in the form of public education exercises and media campaigns. Such measures will serve to inform and educate residents on the benefits of GPPs and lessen the gap between intrinsic value and willingness to pay for select attributes.
Visible Light-Induced Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue Using Copper-Doped Carbon Dots One-Step Derived from CCA-Wood
Authors: Xing Dan , Zhang Jingfa , Magdouli Sara , Tao Yubo , Li Peng , Bouafif Hassine , Koubaa Ahmed
Published: April 2024

Developing novel eco-friendly broad-spectrum visible light photocatalysts for dye removal is one of the urgent problems for water treatment. Here, copper-doped carbon dots (CDs) were reported to be directly fabricated from chromated copper arsenate (CCA) wood waste for the photocatalytic degradation of the methylene blue dye. The properties of the resulting CDs were thoroughly characterized and analyzed, preceding an investigation into the adsorption kinetics of dye degradation. The kinetic study showed that reactant concentration was the rate-limiting factor. The obtained CDs showed a 151 mg/g photocatalytic degradation capacity. Comparing pure CDs to CDs/TiO2 composites, the former demonstrated higher photodegradation efficiency. This superiority can be attributed to the synergistic action of adsorption and photocatalytic degradation working in tandem. This study prepared Cu doped CDs and elucidated the photocatalysis mechanism of methylene blue degradation by CDs. The photodegradation of organic dyes through CDs derived from waste CCA wood emerges as an eco-friendly, facile, and highly efficient method.
Composition and Functional Properties of the Edible Spear and By-Products from Asparagus officinalis L. and Their Potential Prebiotic Effect
Authors: Goñi Isabel , García-Alonso Alejandra , Alba Claudio , Rodríguez Juan Miguel , Sánchez-Mata María Cortes , Guillén-Bejarano Rafael , Redondo-Cuenca Araceli
Published: April 2024

Asparagus is a healthy food appreciated for its organoleptic characteristics, nutritional composition and physiological properties. During its industrial processing, a large amount of by-products are generated, since only the apical part of the vegetable is considered edible and a large amount of by-products are generated that could be of nutritional interest. Therefore, the nutritional composition of the edible part and the two by-products of the plant (root and stem) was evaluated, including dietary fiber, inulin, low-molecular-weight carbohydrates, low-molecular-weight polyphenols and macromolecular polyphenols. The hydration properties, oil retention capacity, glucose retardation index and impact on bacterial growth of both probiotic bacteria and pathogenic strains were determined. All samples were high in fiber (>22 g/100 g dw), fructans (>1.5 g/100 g dw) and polyphenolic compounds (>3 g/100 g dw) and had good water-, oil- and glucose-binding capacity. In addition, they promoted the growth of probiotic strains but not pathogenic ones. The effects were more pronounced in the spear by-product samples and appear to be related to the components of dietary fiber. The results indicate that edible spear has potential beneficial effects on host health and microbiota when ingested as part of a healthy diet, while the by-products could be used as supplements and/or as natural ingredients in fiber-enriched foods that require emulsification and are intended to achieve a prebiotic effect.
On Some Impulsive Fractional Integro-Differential Equation with Anti-Periodic Conditions
Authors: Alruwaily Ymnah , Venkatachalam Kuppusamy , El-hady El-sayed
Published: April 2024

We investigate a class of boundary value problems (BVPs) involving an impulsive fractional integro-differential equation (IF-IDE) with the Caputo–Hadamard fractional derivative (C-HFD). We employ some fixed-point theorems (FPTs) to study the existence of this fractional BVP and its unique solution. The boundary conditions (BCs) established in this study are of a more general type and can be reduced to numerous specific examples by defining the parameters involved in the conditions. In this way, we extend some recent nice results. At the end, we use an example to verify our results.
Improving the Decay Resistance of Wood through the Fixation of Different Nanoparticles Using Silica Aerogel
Authors: Bak Miklós , Plesér Zsófia , Németh Róbert
Published: April 2024

Nowadays, the protection of wood is becoming more important with the increasing demand for durable wood, in addition to its limited accessibility. One possible way to increase the durability is the use of nanoparticles, which can be effective even with a low intake of active ingredients. However, avoiding their leaching is a challenge. A possible solution to leaching is the use of silica aerogel as a fixative. This study investigated the use of mesoporous silica aerogel against the leaching of different nanoparticles under laboratory conditions. Tests were performed involving beech (Fagus sylvatica) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) sapwood, using Trametes versicolor as a white rot and Coniophora puteana as a brown rot fungus. The results show that the subsequent treatment of the wood with mesoporous silica aerogel effectively fixed the nanoparticles in wood. The durability of the samples without aerogel significantly decreased as a result of leaching, whereas the resistance of the samples treated with aerogel decreased only slightly. However, the silica aerogel modification itself caused the leaching of silver nanoparticles, which is a limitation in the use of this method for the fixation of nanoparticles.
Advances in Understanding Fusarium graminearum: Genes Involved in the Regulation of Sexual Development, Pathogenesis, and Deoxynivalenol Biosynthesis
Authors: Niu Gang , Yang Qing , Liao Yihui , Sun Daiyuan , Tang Zhe , Wang Guanghui , Xu Ming , Wang Chenfang , Kang Jiangang
Published: April 2024

The wheat head blight disease caused by Fusarium graminearum is a major concern for food security and the health of both humans and animals. As a pathogenic microorganism, F. graminearum produces virulence factors during infection to increase pathogenicity, including various macromolecular and small molecular compounds. Among these virulence factors, secreted proteins and deoxynivalenol (DON) are important weapons for the expansion and colonization of F. graminearum. Besides the presence of virulence factors, sexual reproduction is also crucial for the infection process of F. graminearum and is indispensable for the emergence and spread of wheat head blight. Over the last ten years, there have been notable breakthroughs in researching the virulence factors and sexual reproduction of F. graminearum. This review aims to analyze the research progress of sexual reproduction, secreted proteins, and DON of F. graminearum, emphasizing the regulation of sexual reproduction and DON synthesis. We also discuss the application of new gene engineering technologies in the prevention and control of wheat head blight.
Speaking Up and Taking Action: Psychological Safety and Joint Problem-Solving Orientation in Safety Improvement
Authors: Bahadurzada Hassina , Kerrissey Michaela , Edmondson Amy C.
Published: April 2024

Healthcare organizations face stubborn challenges in ensuring patient safety and mitigating clinician turnover. This paper aims to advance theory and research on patient safety by elucidating how the role of psychological safety in patient safety can be enhanced with joint problem-solving orientation (JPS). We hypothesized and tested for an interaction between JPS and psychological safety in relation to safety improvement, leveraging longitudinal survey data from a sample of 14,943 patient-facing healthcare workers. We found a moderation effect, in which psychological safety was positively associated with safety improvement, and the relationship was stronger in the presence of JPS. Psychological safety and JPS also interacted positively in predicting clinicians’ intent to stay with the organization. For theory and research, our findings point to JPS as a measurable factor that may enhance the value of psychological safety for patient safety improvement—perhaps because voiced concerns about patient safety often require joint problem-solving to produce meaningful change. For practice, our conceptual framework, viewing psychological safety and JPS as complementary factors, can help organizations adopt a more granular approach towards assessing the interpersonal aspect of their safety climate. This will enable organizations to obtain a more nuanced understanding of their safety climate and identify areas for improvement accordingly.
Sustainability Planning for a Community Network to Increase Participation in Evidence-Based Lifestyle Change Programs: A Mixed-Methods Approach
Authors: Kepper Maura M. , Stamatakis Katherine A. , Deitch Ariel , Terhaar Ally , Gates Emerald , Cole Gabrielle , French Carolyn S. , Hampton Amy , Anderson Lauren , Eyler Amy A.
Published: April 2024

Community-based chronic disease prevention programs can have long-term, broad public health benefits. Yet, only 40 to 60% of evidence-based health programs are sustained. Using established frameworks and evidence-based tools to characterize sustainability allows programs to develop structures and processes to leverage resources effectively to sustain effective program activities and systems. This study used a mixed-methods, partner-engaged approach to identify barriers and facilitators to sustaining a community network (the Alliance program) aimed to increase participation in evidence-based lifestyle change programs delivered in the community. Surveys and qualitative interviews were conducted with the Alliance partners based on the Program Sustainability Assessment Tool and Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Overall, partners felt Alliance had a high capacity for sustainability. Strategic planning, communication, and partnerships were areas partners prioritized to improve the potential for sustaining the program. Results informed the co-development of a sustainability action plan. This paper furthers our understanding of factors critical for the sustainability of community-based programs for chronic disease prevention and health equity and presents a process for developing action plans to build sustainability capacity.
Comparison of Different Green Space Measures and Their Impact on Dementia Cases in South Korea: A Spatial Panel Analysis
Authors: Karurung Wulan Salle , Lee Kangjae , Lee Wonhee
Published: April 2024

Dementia has become a profound public health problem due to the number of patients increasing every year. Previous studies have reported that environmental factors, including greenness, may influence the development and progression of dementia. Studies have found that exposure to green space is associated with a lower incidence of dementia. However, many definitions of green space exist, and the effects of its use may differ with the type of green space. Therefore, two types of green space measures were considered in this study to assess the differences in their impact on the prevalence of dementia among females and males. This study used five years of data (2017–2021) from 235 districts in South Korea. The two green space measures used were open space density and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), which were derived from satellite images. The analysis utilized a combination of traditional and spatial panel analyses to account for the spatial and temporal effects of independent variables on dementia prevalence. The spatial autocorrelation results revealed that both measures of greenness were spatially correlated with dementia prevalence. The spatial panel regression results revealed a significant positive association between NDVI and dementia prevalence, and open space had a negative association with dementia prevalence in both genders. The difference in the findings can serve as the basis for further research when choosing a greenspace measure, as it affects the analysis results, depending on the objective of the study. This study adds to the knowledge regarding improving dementia studies and the application of spatial panel analysis in epidemiological studies.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Important Role of Vitamin B12 in the Response of Natronorubrum daqingense to Salt Stress
Authors: Wang Qi , Wang Zhiwei , Guan Jiaqi , Song Jinzhu
Published: April 2024

Natronorubrum daqingense JX313T is an extremely halophilic archaea that can grow in a NaCl-saturated environment. The excellent salt tolerance of N. daqingense makes it a high-potential candidate for researching the salt stress mechanisms of halophilic microorganisms from Natronorubrum. In this study, transcriptome analysis revealed that three genes related to the biosynthesis of vitamin B12 were upregulated in response to salt stress. For the wild-type (WT) strain JX313T, the low-salt adaptive mutant LND5, and the vitamin B12 synthesis-deficient strain ΔcobC, the exogenous addition of 10 mg/L of vitamin B12 could maximize their cell survival and biomass in both optimal and salt stress environments. Knockout of cobC resulted in changes in the growth boundary of the strain, as well as a significant decrease in cell survival and biomass, and the inability to synthesize vitamin B12. According to the HPLC analysis, when the external NaCl concentration (w/v) increased from 17.5% (optimal) to 22.5% (5% salt stress), the intracellular accumulation of vitamin B12 in WT increased significantly from (11.54 ± 0.44) mg/L to (15.23 ± 0.20) mg/L. In summary, N. daqingense is capable of absorbing or synthesizing vitamin B12 in response to salt stress, suggesting that vitamin B12 serves as a specific compatible solute effector for N. daqingense during salt stress.
The Impact of SNP-Induced Amino Acid Substitutions L19P and G66R in the dRP-Lyase Domain of Human DNA Polymerase β on Enzyme Activities
Authors: Kladova Olga A. , Tyugashev Timofey E. , Yakimov Denis V. , Mikushina Elena S. , Novopashina Daria S. , Kuznetsov Nikita A. , Kuznetsova Aleksandra A.
Published: April 2024

Base excision repair (BER), which involves the sequential activity of DNA glycosylases, apurinic/apyrimidinic endonucleases, DNA polymerases, and DNA ligases, is one of the enzymatic systems that preserve the integrity of the genome. Normal BER is effective, but due to single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), the enzymes themselves—whose main function is to identify and eliminate damaged bases—can undergo amino acid changes. One of the enzymes in BER is DNA polymerase β (Polβ), whose function is to fill gaps in DNA. SNPs can significantly affect the catalytic activity of an enzyme by causing an amino acid substitution. In this work, pre-steady-state kinetic analyses and molecular dynamics simulations were used to examine the activity of naturally occurring variants of Polβ that have the substitutions L19P and G66R in the dRP-lyase domain. Despite the substantial distance between the dRP-lyase domain and the nucleotidyltransferase active site, it was found that the capacity to form a complex with DNA and with an incoming dNTP is significantly altered by these substitutions. Therefore, the lower activity of the tested polymorphic variants may be associated with a greater number of unrepaired DNA lesions.
Chloride/Multiple Anion Exchanger SLC26A Family: Systemic Roles of SLC26A4 in Various Organs
Authors: Lee Dongun , Hong Jeong Hee
Published: April 2024

Solute carrier family 26 member 4 (SLC26A4) is a member of the SLC26A transporter family and is expressed in various tissues, including the airway epithelium, kidney, thyroid, and tumors. It transports various ions, including bicarbonate, chloride, iodine, and oxalate. As a multiple-ion transporter, SLC26A4 is involved in the maintenance of hearing function, renal function, blood pressure, and hormone and pH regulation. In this review, we have summarized the various functions of SLC26A4 in multiple tissues and organs. Moreover, the relationships between SLC26A4 and other channels, such as cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, epithelial sodium channel, and sodium chloride cotransporter, are highlighted. Although the modulation of SLC26A4 is critical for recovery from malfunctions of various organs, development of specific inducers or agonists of SLC26A4 remains challenging. This review contributes to providing a better understanding of the role of SLC26A4 and development of therapeutic approaches for the SLC26A4-associated hearing loss and SLC26A4-related dysfunction of various organs.
Mitochondrial Fraction of Circulating Cell-Free DNA as an Indicator of Human Pathology
Authors: Panagopoulou Maria , Karaglani Makrina , Tzitzikou Konstantina , Kessari Nikoleta , Arvanitidis Konstantinos , Amarantidis Kyriakos , Drosos George I. , Gerou Spyros , Papanas Nikolaos , Papazoglou Dimitrios , Baritaki Stavroula , Constantinidis Theodoros C. , Chatzaki Ekaterini
Published: April 2024

Circulating cell-free DNA (ccfDNA) of mitochondrial origin (ccf-mtDNA) consists of a minor fraction of total ccfDNA in blood or in other biological fluids. Aberrant levels of ccf-mtDNA have been observed in many pathologies. Here, we introduce a simple and effective standardized Taqman probe-based dual-qPCR assay for the simultaneous detection and relative quantification of nuclear and mitochondrial fragments of ccfDNA. Three pathologies of major burden, one malignancy (Breast Cancer, BrCa), one inflammatory (Osteoarthritis, OA) and one metabolic (Type 2 Diabetes, T2D), were studied. Higher levels of ccf-mtDNA were detected both in BrCa and T2D in relation to health, but not in OA. In BrCa, hormonal receptor status was associated with ccf-mtDNA levels. Machine learning analysis of ccf-mtDNA datasets was used to build biosignatures of clinical relevance. (A) a three-feature biosignature discriminating between health and BrCa (AUC: 0.887) and a five-feature biosignature for predicting the overall survival of BrCa patients (Concordance Index: 0.756). (B) a five-feature biosignature stratifying among T2D, prediabetes and health (AUC: 0.772); a five-feature biosignature discriminating between T2D and health (AUC: 0.797); and a four-feature biosignature identifying prediabetes from health (AUC: 0.795). (C) a biosignature including total plasma ccfDNA with very high performance in discriminating OA from health (AUC: 0.934). Aberrant ccf-mtDNA levels could have diagnostic/prognostic potential in BrCa and Diabetes, while the developed multiparameter biosignatures can add value to their clinical management.
Blockchain-Enhanced Sensor-as-a-Service (SEaaS) in IoT: Leveraging Blockchain for Efficient and Secure Sensing Data Transactions
Authors: Khan Burhan Ul Islam , Goh Khang Wen , Mir Mohammad Shuaib , Mohd Rosely Nur Fatin Liyana , Mir Aabid Ahmad , Chaimanee Mesith
Published: April 2024

As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to revolutionize value-added services, its conventional architecture exhibits persistent scalability and security vulnerabilities, jeopardizing the trustworthiness of IoT-based services. These architectural limitations hinder the IoT’s Sensor-as-a-Service (SEaaS) model, which enables the commercial transmission of sensed data through cloud platforms. This study proposes an innovative computational framework that integrates decentralized blockchain technology into the IoT architectural design, specifically enhancing SEaaS efficiency. This research contributes to an optimized IoT architecture with decentralized blockchain operations and simplified public key encryption. Furthermore, this study introduces an advanced SEaaS model featuring innovative trading operations for sensed data among diverse stakeholders. At its core, this model presents a unique blockchain-based data-sharing mechanism that manages multiple aspects, from enrollment to validation. Evaluations conducted in a standard Python environment indicate that the proposed SEaaS model outperforms existing blockchain-based data-sharing models, demonstrating approximately 40% less energy consumption, 18% increased throughput, 16% reduced latency, and a 25% reduction in algorithm processing time. Ultimately, integrating a lightweight authentication mechanism using simplified public key cryptography within the blockchain establishes the model’s potential for efficient and secure data-sharing in IoT.
Diagnosis, Treatment and Long-Term Management of Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Adults: A Delphi Expert Consensus
Authors: Obeid Rima , Andrès Emmanuel , Češka Richard , Hooshmand Babak , Guéant-Rodriguez Rosa-Maria , Prada Gabriel Ioan , Sławek Jarosław , Traykov Latchezar , Ta Van Binh , Várkonyi Tamás , Reiners Karlheinz ,   The Vitamin B12 Consensus Panelists Group
Published: April 2024

Background/Objectives: Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause variable symptoms, which may be irreversible if not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. We aimed to develop a widely accepted expert consensus to guide the practice of diagnosing and treating B12 deficiency. Methods: We conducted a scoping review of the literature published in PubMed since January 2003. Data were used to design a two-round Delphi survey to study the level of consensus among 42 experts. Results: The panelists agreed on the need for educational and organizational changes in the current medical practices for diagnosing and treating B12 deficiency. Recognition of clinical symptoms should receive the highest priority in establishing the diagnosis. There is agreement that the serum B12 concentration is useful as a screening marker and methylmalonic acid or homocysteine can support the diagnosis. Patient lifestyle, disease history, and medications can provide clues to the cause of B12 deficiency. Regardless of the cause of the deficiency, initial treatment with parenteral B12 was regarded as the first choice for patients with acute and severe manifestations of B12 deficiency. The use of high-dose oral B12 at different frequencies may be considered for long-term treatment. Prophylactic B12 supplementation should be considered for specific high-risk groups. Conclusions: There is a consensus that clinical symptoms need to receive more attention in establishing the diagnosis of B12 deficiency. B12 laboratory markers can support the diagnosis. The severity of clinical symptoms, the causes of B12 deficiency, and the treatment goals govern decisions regarding the route and dose of B12 therapy.
Topical Agents in Biofilm Disaggregation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pardo Alessia , Fiorini Vera , Zangani Alessandro , Faccioni Paolo , Signoriello Annarita , Albanese Massimo , Lombardo Giorgio
Published: April 2024

Background: to evaluate the effectiveness of different topical agents in biofilm disaggregation during non-surgical periodontal therapy. Methods: the search strategy was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 on Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science, and it was registered in PROSPERO, ID: CRD42023474232. It included studies comparing non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) with and without the application of topical agents for biofilm disruption. A risk of bias analysis, a qualitative analysis, and a quantitative analysis were performed. Results: out of 1583 records, 11 articles were included: 10 randomized clinical trials and one retrospective analysis. The total number of participants considered in the 11 articles included in the study was 386. The primary outcomes were probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and bleeding indices. The secondary outcomes were plaque indices, gingival recessions, and microbiological parameters. The meta-analysis revealed the following: [Weighted mean difference (WMD): −0.37; 95% confidence interval (CI) (−0.62, −0.12), heterogeneity I2: 79%, statistical significance p = 0.004]. Conclusions: the meta-analysis of probing pocket depth reduction (PPD) between baseline and follow-up at 3–6 months showed a statistically significant result in favor of sulfonated phenolics gel. The scientific evidence is still limited and heterogeneous; further randomized clinical trials are required.
Impact of Minimally Invasive Intra-Capsular Metatarsal Osteotomy on Plantar Pressure Decrease: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fernández-Vizcaino Carlos , Naranjo-Ruiz Carmen , Fernández-Ehrling Nadia , García-Vicente Sergio , Nieto-García Eduardo , Ferrer-Torregrosa Javier
Published: April 2024

Background: Metatarsalgia is a common pathology that is initially treated conservatively, but failure to do so requires surgery, such as the minimally invasive distal metatarsal osteotomy (DICMO). Methods: In this prospective study of 65 patients with primary metatarsalgia who underwent DICMO, plantar pressures, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society MetaTarsoPhalangeal-InterPhalangeal scale (AOFAS-MTP-IP) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were evaluated pre-operatively and post-operatively and there was a subgroup in which an inclinometer was used to observe the importance of the inclination of the osteotomy. Results: The results show a significant reduction in plantar pressures after DICMO surgery without overloading the adjacent radii, especially in the subgroup with an inclinometer to guide the osteotomy. The AOFAS-MTP-IP scale evidenced a marked improvement in metatarsal function and alignment with scores close to normal. The VAS scale showed a substantial decrease in pain after DICMO osteotomy. Conclusions: DICMO, with an inclinometer for a 45° osteotomy, proved to be a safe and effective procedure for primary metatarsalgia, although further comparative studies are needed to confirm its superiority.
Topical Treatments in Atopic Dermatitis: An Expansive Review
Authors: Lazar Michelle , Zhang Aurore D. , Vashi Neelam A.
Published: April 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin condition found worldwide. It impacts patient quality of life (QoL) and is thought to arise as an inflammatory response to epidermal barrier dysfunction and hypersensitivity. AD can lead to large out-of-pocket costs and increased healthcare expenses over a lifetime. An analysis of all randomized control trials conducted since 1990 on topical therapies for AD were reviewed, including 207 trials in the final analysis. It was found that an average of 226 patients were enrolled over 2.43 arms. Common topical treatments included corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, JAK inhibitors, and phosphodiesterase inhibitors. The most utilized tools to identify treatment efficacy were the EASI, IGA, SCORAD, and PGA. There was a paucity of data on trials that evaluated efficacy, QoL, and cost of treatment simultaneously. This review highlights the need for comprehensive trials that evaluate multiple aspects of treatment, including financial cost and QoL impact, to ensure each patient has the best treatment modality for the management of their AD.