bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of the Mechanical Densification Process in Wood Material on the Surface Adhesion Resistance of Varnishes
Authors: Atilgan Abdi , Burdurlu² Erol , Atar² Musa , Yasar³ Sekip Sadiye
Published: February 2024

This research was carried out to find out the impact the mechanical densifying process has on wood material on the varnish adhesion resistance to surface. To this end, the experiment samples acquired from black pine (Pinus nigra) and Uludag Fir (Abies bornmulleriana Mattf) were subjected to densification in a hydraulic press at 140°C and a rate of 25% and 50% with a direction of radial. Following the process of densification, the sanded and unsanded samples were varnished with cellulosic and polyurethane varnishes, afterwards the surface adhesion resistance of the varnishes was determined. Regarding the three-way interaction between densification ratio, surface treatment and wood type, the highest surface adhesion resistance of the varnish layer was found in black pine + unsanded surface + 25% densification (1.98), and the lowest was in Uludag Fir + unsanded surface + 50% densification (0.99). Concerning the triple interaction of varnish type, concentration ratio and surface treatment, the highest surface adhesion resistance of the varnish layer was found in the polyurethane varnish + non-densified control group + sanded surface (2.23), and the lowest was in cellulosic varnish + non-densified control group + sanded surface (1.02). Approximate values were obtained for the densification process. It can be stated that the densification process creates high adhesion values for the polyurethane varnish in the black pine wood type. The sanding process has an intensifier effect on these values, and the products which were obtained from the polyurethane varnished samples do not require sanding. Considering these situations can provide significant advantages in projects with wood materials subjected to the densification process.
Regional high iron deposition on brain quantitative susceptibility mapping correlates with cognitive decline in chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Li Yuan , Jiang Yuhan , Gao Bingbing , Liu Na , Zhang Yukun , Zhou Huiling , Song Qingwei , Wang Nan , Miao Yanwei
Published: February 2024

Objective
Evaluate the changes of gray matter nuclei iron deposition in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients by quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) threshold method and analyze the relationship between brain iron and cognitive function.
Materials and Methods
Prospectively recruited CKD patients with and without hemodialysis (HD and NHD), and healthy controls (HCs). Compared neuropsychological scores, clinical indexes and QSM data among three groups. Analyzed correlation between QSM data with neuropsychological scores and laboratory index in HD group. Used linear regression analysis to explore the effect of iron deposition on cognition and emotion in HD group. A statistically significant P-value was set at 0.05.
Results
96 individuals were recruited, including 35 HD patients (57.54 ± 10.42 years, 21 males), 18 NHD patients (55.06 ± 11.47 years, 10 males) and 43 HCs (55.67 ± 7.79 years, 18 males). Right RN mean-MSV increased in HD patients than HCs (P = 0.006). Left CN, bilateral Put and right RN high-MSV were significantly different among three groups (all P = 0.027, FDR-correction). Left Put high-MSV was positively correlated with Cre and UA, right Put high-MSV was negatively correlated with MCH and MCHC. High-MSV of some nuclei were negatively correlated with cognition. Regression analysis showed iron deposition in some nuclei were independent risk factors of depression and orientation ability.
Conclusion
Brain iron deposition is excessive and uneven in CKD patients, especially undergoing hemodialysis. Regional high-iron deposition can better assess the distribution of iron, which is related to the cognitive dysfunction and emotional disorder.
The prediction of estimated cerebral perfusion pressure with trans-systolic time in preterm and term infants
Authors: Zuiki Masashi , Ohta Mikito , Fujita Naoe , Uda Daisuke , Uesugi Madoka , Yamano Akio , Ichise Eisuke , Morimoto Hidechika , Hashiguchi Kanae , Kinoshita Daisuke , Hasegawa Tatsuji , Iehara Tomoko
Published: February 2024

Purpose
It is important to monitor cerebral perfusion in infants because hypo- and hyperperfusion can contribute to neurological injury. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between trans-systolic time (TST) and critical closing pressure (CrCP) or estimated cerebral perfusion pressure (CPPe) in neonates. Moreover, we aimed to determine the TST values in preterm and term infants with stable cerebral perfusion to clarify normative reference data.
Methods
This multicentre prospective study included infants with arterial lines admitted to the neonatal intensive care units between December 2021 and August 2023. TST, CrCP, and CPPe were calculated using middle cerebral artery waveforms recorded using transcranial Doppler ultrasonography when clinicians collected arterial blood samples.
Results
Three hundred and sixty samples were obtained from 112 infants with a gestational age of 32 (interquartile range, 27–37) weeks and a birth weight of 1481 (956–2355) g. TST was positively correlated with CPPe (r = 0.60, p < 0.001), but not with CrCP (r = 0.08, p = 0.10). The normative reference values of TST in preterm and term infants without samples of hyper- or hypocapnia and/or hyper- or hypotension, which may affect cerebral perfusion, were as follows: ≤ 29 weeks, 0.12 (0.11–0.14) s; 30–36 weeks, 0.14 (0.12–0.15) s; and ≥ 37 weeks, 0.16 (0.14–0.17) s, respectively.
Conclusions
TST in neonates significantly correlated with CPPe, but not with CrCP. This parameter may be a good predictor of cerebral perfusion and potentially have wider clinical applications.
Parents' Protective Strategies in Dealing with Adolescence Cancer: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Padehban Vahid , Yazdi Khadijeh . , poorkhani Amir Houshang , Mancheri Hamideh , sabzi Zahra
Published: February 2024

Background:
Being diagnosed with cancer is a very unpleasant and unbelievable experience for the family and the patient. The association of this disease with adolescence as the most dangerous developmental stage can be accompanied by an increasing line of psychological and social problems. The aforementioned research was conducted to explain the performance of parents in caring for Adolescence with cancer.
Methods:
The present qualitative study was conducted using the conventional content analysis method. 17 Iranian families with Adolescence diagnosed with cancer from December 2022 to November 2023 were selected as participants based on the inclusion criteria through targeted sampling. Continuous comparative data collection and analysis until reaching data saturation was done through semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was done using the qualitative content analysis method proposed by Granheim Velangman. The research report was presented using the Consolidated Criteria for Qualitative Research Reporting (COREQ) checklist.
Results:
The family's dominant strategy against Adolescence cancer includes 5 main concepts, included: "Parents' conscious approach appropriate to the adolescent when facing a cancer diagnosis," "Disease recognition based on multiple sources," "Using social support resources," "Family self-control methods when facing a cancer diagnosis," and "Limiting social interactions in the family."
Conclusions:
The findings showed that parents of Adolescence with cancer use protective strategies when facing their child's diagnosis and treatment process. Therefore, nurses can use these protective strategies in developing a care plan while considering the conditions of the parents and the affected adolescent to improve the health of the affected adolescent.
Combination Therapy with Anti-VEGF and Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant for Treatment of Macular Edema Secondary to Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Cai Xiaohui , Zhao Jing , Dang Yalong
Published: February 2024

Purpose
to compare the safety and efficacy of intravitreal injection of ranibizumab alone or ranibizumab combined with dexamethasone intravitreal implant in the treatment of macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion.
Study Design:
a single center, case-controlled, prospective cohort study (Clinical Trail Registration Number: ChiCTR2400080048).
Methods
patients with macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion who visited our hospital from August 2020 to August 2022 were enrolled. The patients were randomized into the ranibizumab group and the combination group (ranibizumab combined with dexamethasone intravitreal implant). The patients in both groups received ranibizumab intravitreal injections in the first three months as the initial treatment. However, in the ranibizumab group, patients might receive repeat injections during the follow-up in case of the recurrence of macular edema; in the combination group, patients received an intravitreal injection of dexamethasone implant after the first injection of ranibizumab at the day 15. The main outcome evaluations are best-corrected visual acuity and reduction of central macular thickness. The secondary outcome evaluations are the numbers of recurrence, the average injection interval, and the number of injections. Adverse events, such as ocular hypertension, and subconjunctival hemorrhage were also recorded.
Results
44 eyes were assigned to the ranibizumab group (n = 23) and the combination group (n = 21). Compared with the ranibizumab group, the combination group showed a significantly greater improvement in best-corrected visual acuity at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Both groups showed a decrease in central macular thickness at 1 week and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, compared with the baseline (P < 0.05). However, the combination group did not exhibit higher central macular thickness-reducing effects than the ranibizumab group (P > 0.05). Compared with the ranibizumab group, the combination group required a significantly lower average number of injections (P = 0.011) and had a significantly lower number of macular edema recurrences (P < 0.001) and significantly prolonged average time to re-injection (P = 0.05). The incidence of adverse events was not significantly different between the two groups (P = 0.944).
Conclusions
ranibizumab combined with dexamethasone intravitreal injection could sustainably and rapidly improve the best-corrected visual acuity of retinal vein occlusion patients with a good safety profile.
Fecal microbiota transplantation improves spatial learning disability caused by developmental anesthetic neurotoxicity in neonatal rats
Authors: Chaki Tomohiro , Horiguchi Yuri , Tachibana Shunsuke , Sato Satoshi , Hirahata Tomoki , Nishihara Noriaki , Kii Natsumi , Yoshikawa Yusuke , Hayamizu Kengo , Yamakage Michiaki
Published: February 2024

Background: Anesthetic exposure induces neurodegeneration in children. Although this problem has been elucidated in decades, the prophylaxis for developmental anesthetic neurotoxicity (DAN) has not been established. It has been reported that gut microbiota produces various metabolites and influences brain function of host, which has been called as Gut microbiota-Brain axis. We report the effect of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on spatial learning disability caused by DAN in neonatal rats.
Methods: In experiment 1, neonatal rats were divided into C (Control) and S (Sevoflurane) groups to elucidate the effect of sevoflurane exposure on gut microbiota composition. In S group, rats were exposed by 2.1% sevoflurane for 2 hours in postnatal day (PND) 7-13. In experiment 2, neonatal rats were divided into S and SF groups. In SF group, neonatal rats were received FMT just after sevoflurane exposure in PND 7-13. The sample of FMT was obtained from non-anesthetized mother rat. Behavioral tests were performed to evaluate spatial learning ability from PND 26-39.
Results: Sevoflurane exposure significantly altered the gut microbiota composition. Especially, the relative abundance of Bacteroidetesphylum was significantly increased and that of Firmicutes phylum was significantly decreased by sevoflurane exposure. The FMT improved spatial learning ability. The microbiota analysis revealed that the α-diversity of gut microbiota was increased by FMT. Particularly, FMT decreased the relative abundances of Bacteroidetes phylum, Bacteroidia class, Bacteroidales order, Bacteroidaceae family, Bacteroides genus. Meanwhile, the relative abundances of Firmicutes phylum, Clostridia order, Clostridiales class, Ruminococcaceae family, Ruminococcus genus, and butyric acid-producing bacteria increased by FMT. Moreover, the FMT increased the fecal concentration of butyrate, and exerted the histone acetylation and the mRNA expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor in hippocampus. Immunofluorescence staining with Iba-1 antibody revealed that microglia infiltration in hippocampus was significantly suppressed by FMT. The mRNA expressions of apoptosis-inducing proteins were significantly suppressed and those of anti-apoptotic proteins were significantly promoted by FMT. The TUNEL staining indicated that neuronal apoptosis in hippocampus was significantly suppressed by FMT.
Conclusions: FMT improved spatial learning ability in rats with DAN. The modulation of gut microbiota might be an effective prophylaxis for DAN in children.
Efficacy of simple intravitreal gas injection for treating unclosed idiopathic macular holes after vitrectomy
Authors: Dou Zexia , Han Jindong , Zhao Shaozhen
Published: February 2024

Background
This study aimed to observe the efficacy of simple intravitreal injection of C3F8 in the treatment of unclosed idiopathic macular holes (IMH) in patients after primary pars plana vitrectomy (PPV).
Methods
This was a retrospective clinical observational study. Patients diagnosed with unclosed IMH who underwent primary PPV combined with internal limiting membrane peeling (ILMP) and air tamponade were included in the study. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) at 1 week after PPV revealed unclosed IMH with the "cuff" sign and intraretinal cysts. The next day, the patients were treated by simple intravitreal injection of C3F8. All patients underwent best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), indirect ophthalmoscopy, fundus photography, and OCT before PPV and at 1 week, before and after intravitreal gas injection for 1 to 3 months.
Results
The minimum horizontal hole diameter (MHD) before PPV was 555.4 ± 104.8 µm, and that at 1 week after PPV was 335.1 ± 74.3 um, with statistically significant (t = 11.256, P < 0.001). The percentage of closed holes after air tamponade was 100%. The mean BCVA before PPV was 0.79 ± 0.26 logMAR (20/123), and that after air tamponade was 0.48 ± 0.19 logMAR (20/30) with statistical difference significantly (t = 5.303, P = 0.002).
Conclusion
For patients with enclosed IMH after primary PPV, if OCT reveals the "cuff" sign, retreatment can be performed through simple intravitreal gas injection. The method is simple, economical, practical, and effective.
Rapid assessment of bio-distribution and antitumor activity of the photosensitizer Bremachlorin in a murine PDAC model: detection of PDT-induced tumor necrosis by IRDye® 800CW Carboxylate, using whole-body fluorescent imaging
Authors: Morrow Roisin Mc , de Bruijn Henriette S. , Que Ivo , Stuurman Debra C. , de Ridder Corrina M.A. , Doukas Michail , Robinson Dominic J. , Mezzanotte Laura , Lowik Clemens W.G.M.
Published: February 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a light-based anticancer therapy that can induce tumor necrosis and/or apoptosis. Two important factors contributing to the efficacy of PDT are the concentration of the photosensitizer in the tumor tissue and its preferential accumulation in the tumor tissue compared to that in normal tissues. In this study, we investigated the use of optical imaging for monitoring whole-body bio-distribution of the fluorescent (660 nm) photosensitizer Bremachlorin in vivo, in a murine pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) model. Moreover, we non-invasively, examined the induction of tumor necrosis after PDT treatment using near-infrared fluorescent imaging of the necrosis avid cyanine dye IRDye®-800CW Carboxylate. Using whole-body fluorescence imaging, we observed that Bremachlorin preferentially accumulated in pancreatic tumors. Furthermore, in a longitudinal study we showed that 3 hours after Bremachlorin administration, the fluorescent tumor signal reached its maximum. In addition, the tumor-to-background ratio at all-time points was approximately 1.4. Ex vivo, at 6 hours after Bremachlorin administration, the tumor-to-muscle or -normal pancreas ratio exhibited a greater difference than it did at 24 hours, suggesting that, in terms of efficacy, 6 hours after Bremachlorin administration was an effective time point for PDT treatment of PDAC. In vivo administration of the near infrared fluorescence agent IRDye®-800CW Carboxylate showed that PDT, 6 hours after administration of Bremachlorin, selectively induced necrosis in the tumor tissues, which was subsequently confirmed histologically. In conclusion, by using in vivo fluorescence imaging, we could non-invasively and longitudinally monitor, the whole-body distribution of Bremachlorin. Furthermore, we successfully used IRDye®-800CW Carboxylate, a near-infrared fluorescent necrosis avid agent, to image PDT-induced necrotic cell death as a measure of therapeutic efficacy. This study showed how fluorescence can be applied for optimizing, and assessing the efficacy of, PDT.
Rate of Decrease in Serum Autotaxin Can Predict Relapse of Type 1 Autoimmune Pancreatitis After Initial Steroid Therapy
Authors: Horiuchi Ichitaro , Nakamura Akira , Kuraishi Yasuhiro , Sasaki Nobukazu , Minamisawa Masafumi , Kamakura Masato , Kondo Shohei , Yanagisawa Takumi , Oguchi Takaya , Nagaya Tadanobu , Shimamoto Satoshi , Igarashi Koji , Umemura Takeji
Published: February 2024

Objectives: IgG4 has been reported as a predictive marker of relapse in autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP). Serum autotaxin (ATX) was also recently found to associate with AIP relapse. This study examined the changes in serum IgG4 and ATX levels for predicting relapse in AIP patients after initial steroid therapy.
Methods: Patients with AIP who had received initial steroid therapy were retrospectively enrolled. Serum IgG4 and ATX levels were measured before and after treatment. The rates of decrease (Δ) in serum marker levels were calculated by dividing the difference between before and after steroid therapy by the number of days between them.
Results: The 37 AIP patients analyzed included 26 non-relapse and 11 relapse patients. The median Δ of serum IgG4 was 5.19 (interquartile range [IQR]: 2.65-14.49) in the non-relapse group and statistically comparable to the 3.07 (IQR: 1.79-4.43) in the relapse group (P=0.12). The median Δ of serum ATX was 1.32×10-3 (IQR: 0.23×10-3-2.45×10-3) in the non-relapse group and 0.58×10-3 (IQR: -1.34×10-3-0.91×10-3) in the relapse group, which was a significant difference (P<0.01). Positive predictive values (PPVs) for relapse were 70.1% for the Δ of IgG4 and 67.6% for the Δ of ATX. The PPV at either the Δ of IgG4 or the Δ ATX cut-off was 86.5%. In the 10 cases of IgG4 <270 mg/dL, the PPV for the Δ of IgG4 was 20%, while that for the Δ of ATX was 70%.
Conclusions: The combination of IgG4 and ATX decrease rates may help predict relapse in AIP patients after steroid therapy.
High Prevalence of Uncontrolled Asthma and Its Association with Obesity and GERD-related symptoms in Syria: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Bakdounes Duaa , Dughly Ruba , Almasri Imad-Addin , Martini Nafiza , Hanna Majd , Albelal Douaa , bardan Hussam Al
Published: February 2024

Introduction
Asthma control remains suboptimal globally, with high rates of partly and uncontrolled disease. Poor asthma control can be attributed to the severity of the disease, ineffective treatment, and the presence of comorbid conditions such as obesity and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Objective
This cross-sectional study represents the first investigation in Syria to explore the relationship between asthma control status and common asthma comorbidities, namely obesity and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Methods
This multicenter cross-sectional study interviewed 275 asthma patients from respiratory clinics at four hospitals using questionnaires on sociodemographic, asthma control per Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) guidelines, symptoms, and management. Body Mass Index (BMI), waist-to-hip (WHR) and waist-to-height ratios (WHtR) were calculated. Associations were assessed between asthma control, obesity markers, GERD symptoms, and other variables.
Results
Most patients were women (72%) with a mean age of 41 years. Based on GINA criteria, 60% had uncontrolled, 28.7% partly controlled, and only 11.3% well controlled asthma. Higher BMI associated significantly with worse control (p = 0.006). WHtR also correlated with poorer asthma control (p < 0.001). While GERD diagnosis did not relate significantly to asthma control, symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, and chronic cough did (p < 0.05), as did the lack of GERD treatment (p = 0.002). Additionally, the lack of reflux treatment correlated with poorer asthma control (p = 0.002).
Conclusion
There is a marked prevalence of inadequately controlled asthma in Syria. Both obesity and GERD-related symptoms correlate with poorer asthma control, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive management strategy.
SHCBP1 Promotes Cisplatin Resistance of Ovarian Cancer Through AKT/mTOR/Autophagy Pathway
Authors: Qi Gonghua , Ma Hanlin , Teng Kai , Gong Yanmin , Chen Jingying , Luo Xia , Kong Beihua , Gai Panpan
Published: February 2024

Ovarian cancercaused the highest cancer-related mortality among female reproductive system malignancies. Platinum-based chemotherapy is still the footstone of the chemotherapy for ovarian cancer. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying cisplatin insensitivity and resistance remain unclear. SHC SH2 domain-binding protein 1 (SHCBP1) plays critical roles in the progression and drug resistance of different types of cancer. However, the biological function of SHCBP1 in ovarian cancer progression and cisplatin resistance remains obscure. In this study, we found that SHCBP1 was up-regulated in ovarian cancer and the up-regulated SHCBP1 has growth-promoting effect on ovarian cancer cells. Furthermore, SHCBP1silencing sensitize ovarian cancer cells to CDDP. Mechanism analysis revealed that SHCBP1 activated the Akt/mTOR pathway and further inhibited autophagy in ovarian cancer cells. Meanwhile, Autophagy inhibitors combined with SHCBP1 knockdown enhances CDDP sensitivity. In addition, SHCBP1 inhibition restrained the proliferation of tumorsand increased the cisplatin sensitivity in vivo. These findings suggested that up-regulated SHCBP1 promoted the proliferation and CDDP resistance of ovarian cancer.The combination of SHCBP1 inhibition and cisplatin treatment might lead to substantial progress in ovarian cancer targeted therapy.
Apatinib combined with an anti-PD-1 agent promotes antitumour immunity in mice with ovarian cancer
Authors: Luo Weixuan , Liu Chunyue , Cheng Xiaoyan , Xu Wei , Zhou Wenjun , Ma Jiaxin , Ren Rui , Tian Meina , Ding Jing
Published: February 2024

Objective
Apatinib is a noval antiangiogenic agents, and it has great clinical benefit. Immunotherapy has a low response rate in patients with ovarian cancer, but combination with antiangiogenic therapy might improve the antitumour response. The aim of our study was to assess the expression of programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) in vivo and in vitro and the potential effect of apatinib in combination with an anti-PD-1 antibody in mice with ovarian cancer.
Methods
We assessed the expression of PD-L1 in vivo and in vitro by real-time quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (qRT‒PCR), flow cytometry and western blotting in different concentrations. We constructed a xenograft model and measured mouse weight and tumour size after treatment. Tumour tissues from the mice were subjected to HE staining, and we detected Ki-67, CD4 and CD8 expression by immunohistochemical staining (IHC).
Results
Apatinib monotherapy increased the expression of PD-L1 by dose-dependent, as determined by qRT‒PCR, flow cytometry, and western blotting in vivo and in vitro. Apatinib combined with an anti-PD-1 antibody had the most pronounced antitumour effect on ovarian cancer among the combination treatment and the two monotherapies. The most obvious changes were a decrease in Ki-67 expression and increases in CD4 and CD8 expression.
Conclusions
Our study showed that apatinib upregulates the expression of PD-L1 to exert antitumour effects. Apatinib in combination with an anti-PD-1 antibody led to a remarkable reduction in tumour growth, providing evidence for clinical trials.
Por uma ciência com mais poesia - Possibilidades de uma dualidade?
Authors: Francisco Junior Wilmo Ernesto
Published: February 2024

Resumo
Ciência e poesia não têm sido vistas como atividades humanas que carregam similaridades. Este artigo tem como foco justamente analisar conectividades possíveis entre a ciência e poemas e suas possibilidades para o processo educativo. Com base em aporte teórico sobre psicologia e arte, ciência e arte, bem como um breve relato empírico, procuramos responder se haveria uma dualidade entre ciência e poesia. A partir disso, argumentamos sobre cinco dimensões principais de proximidade: i) racionalidade; ii) imaginação e criatividade; iii) linguagem e modos de representação (ou metaforização/nominalização); iv) estética e; v) condicionantes históricos de produção. Tais aproximações se tornariam diagramas de contorno, sendo difícil dissociá-las ao se pensar as produções artísticas e científicas; portanto, pertencendo a ambas. Uma atividade didática que busque inter-relações entre as ciências e a poesia/arte pode ser organizada a partir dessas balizas. O breve relato empírico demonstra que tais dimensões são manifestadas quando os estudantes são estimulados a uma vivência e elaboração estética.
Palavras-chave: Ciência e arte; Poema; Educação em ciências.
Review of research on performance indicators for water utilities
Authors: Sakai Hiroshi
Published: February 2024

Water utilities are affected by various social, environmental, and technological factors and are increasingly required to enhance their infrastructure and long-term efficiency. Performance indicators are useful tools for assessing the operational, financial, environmental, and social aspects of water systems. Given this background, the author reviewed the literature on performance indicators for the water sector and summarized the research trends as follows. As a perspective, there are a lot of good mathematical and theoretical studies on distribution pipes and leakage management. Future research should address the problems of water utilities, by using multiple levels of performance indicators including social and environmental context in the long term. Asset management and utility management studies address diverse and current problems faced by water utilities. However, there is still room for improvement in standardizing the methodology for data collection, processing, and integration. In addition, it is recommended for future research, to include carbon neutrality aspect, to include pipeline materials and soil information in leakage management, to extend asset management studies to treatment plants, with including additional indicators about human and financial resources.
Utilization of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) biomass as eco-friendly sorbent for petroleum oil spill cleanup
Authors: Khondoker Marufa , Gurav Ranjit , Hwang Sangchul
Published: February 2024

This study focuses on the removal of spent engine oil (SEO) spill from the water surface using water hyacinth biomass (WHB)-based sorbents. The raw WHB was modified using extra virgin coconut oil (mainly consisting of lauric acid) to enhance the hydrophobicity and floating ability. With varying amounts of coconut oil and solvent, six diverse types of modified water hyacinth biomass (MWHB) were prepared. Among these MWHBs, an equal proportion of coconut oil and raw WHB with 10% methanol solution exhibited the highest removal of SEO reaching 96%. Various sorption kinetics and isotherm models were examined to understand the SEO sorption process on MWHB. The pseudo-second-order kinetics (R2 0.999) and both the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models (R2 0.992 and R2 0.999, respectively) were found to be the best-fitting models. These findings indicated a chemisorption mechanism involving the initial monolayer coverage of SEO molecules on the MWHB surface followed by the development of multilayers. The MWHB achieved a maximum sorption capacity of 4.75 g/g within 60 min. Furthermore, the reusability tests showed that MWHB maintained a sorption capacity of over 90% even after the third sorption–desorption cycle.
Construction of a certainly-element pattern of a diamond drill for a resolving of a problem of diamond drilling minute canals in details from fragile rigid nonmetallic stuffs
Authors: Kai Jian Ding
Published: February 2024

Given clause describes the done job routed on a raise of accuracy of got canals, in details from fragile rigid nonmetallic stuffs, during drilling by their diamond drill.
Conditions for the Formation of the Position of Primary School Children in the System of Patriotic Education
Authors: Vins Anastasiia Sergeevna , Chertkov Pavel Vladimirovich
Published: February 2024

The article deals with the problem of forming the position of primary school children in the system of patriotic education. The issue of patriotic education is currently one of the central ones, it is becoming extremely relevant. The organization of the process of patriotic education of students occupies a leading place in modern pedagogical research. The task of modern school teachers is to educate children in the independence of decisions made, purposefulness in actions and deeds, the development of their ability to self-education and self-regulation of relationships. The article contains a description of the methods and forms used in educational work on the formation of patriotic consciousness of younger schoolchildren.
Asociatividad de pequeños agricultores y exportación en la región peruana de Cajamarca
Authors: Valdiglesias Oviedo Jhon
Published: February 2024

La presente investigación busca analizar en qué medida la asociatividad permitirá que pequeños agricultores peruanos puedan insertarse, crecer y mantenerse en el mercado internacional. Para esto nos centramos en la región de Cajamarca; por ser uno de los recientes liderazgos en cuanto a la exportación de café orgánico debido a las asociaciones cafetaleras que se han ido formando. Para medir el impacto de la asociatividad en las exportaciones se hace uso de un modelo de regresión logística, teniendo como fuente de información el IV Censo Nacional Agropecuario; el cual permite construir todas las variables mencionadas. Los resultados son robustos y confirman la hipótesis de la presente investigación.
What Place Does Scripture Have in Thomas Aquinas’s Reasoning?
Authors: Zatwardnicki Sławomir
Published: February 2024

W artykule zaakcentowano współistnienie teologii biblijnej i teologii systematycznej w twórczości Tomasza z Akwinu; w tym celu skorzystano z badań tomizmu biblijnego. Następnie ukazano, w jaki sposób Biblia wiąże się ze spekulacją teologiczną w początkowych kwestiach Sumy teologicznej, w których autor charakteryzuje sacra doctrina. Kolejno przedstawiono modus operandi Akwinaty w dyskusji z adwersarzami nieuznającymi autorytetu Pisma Świętego oraz jego apologię autorytetu sacra Scriptura. Dalej zademonstrowano przykładową polemikę z chrześcijanami prowadzoną w oparciu o teksty natchnione. W zakończeniu zebrano wnioski dotyczące miejsca i funkcji Pisma Świętego w argumentacji Tomasza, które zależą po pierwsze od adresatów dzieł Tomasza, a po drugie od rodzajów wypowiedzi Doktora Anielskiego.
Therapeutical Approach to Arterial Hypertension - Current State of
the Art
Authors: Radosavljevic Milica , Vučević Danijela , Samardžić Janko , Radenkovic Miroslav , Radosavljević Tatjana
Published: February 2024

Arterial hypertension (AH) is recognized as the most common illness within
the group of cardiovascular diseases and the most massive chronic non-infectious disease
in the world. The number of hypertensive patients worldwide has reached 1.28 billion,
contributing to an increase in cardiovascular diseases and premature death globally.
The high prevalence of hypertension emphasizes the importance of effectively treating
this condition. Elevated blood pressure often leads to lethal complications (heart failure,
stroke, renal disorders, etc.) if left untreated. Considering an increase in AH prevalence
in the future, a successful therapeutical approach to this disease and its complications is
essential. The goal of AH treatment is to maintain normotensive blood pressure through
various approaches, including lifestyle changes, a well-balanced diet, increased physical
activity, psychoeducation, and, when necessary, pharmacotherapy. The evolving pharmacotherapeutic
landscape reflects the progress made in our understanding of hypertension
and emphasizes the need for continuous innovation to meet the challenges posed by this
prevalent global health concern. The journey toward more effective and tailored treatments
for hypertension is ongoing, and the introduction of new medications plays a pivotal
role in shaping the future of antihypertensive pharmacotherapy.
The Transcriptome Analysis of Circular RNAs Between the Doxorubicin-
Induced Cardiomyocytes and Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells-
Derived Exosomes Treated Ones
Authors: Wei Yanhuan , Wei Haixia , Tian Chao , Wu Qinchao , Li Daisong , Huang Chao , Zhang Guoliang , Chen Ruolan , Wang Ni , Li Yonghong , Li Bing , Chu Xian-Ming
Published: February 2024

Aim:

To analyze the sequencing results of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in cardiomyocytes
between the doxorubicin (DOX)-injured group and exosomes treatment group. Moreover,
to offer potential circRNAs possibly secreted by exosomes mediating the therapeutic effect on
DOX-induced cardiotoxicity for further study.

Methods:

The DOX-injured group (DOX group) of cardiomyocytes was treated with DOX,
while an exosomes-treated group of injured cardiomyocytes were cocultured with bone marrow
mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC)-derived exosomes (BEC group). The high-throughput sequencing
of circRNAs was conducted after the extraction of RNA from cardiomyocytes. The differential
expression of circRNA was analyzed after identifying the number, expression, and conservative
of circRNAs. Then, the target genes of differentially expressed circRNAs were predicted
based on the targetscan and Miranda database. Next, the GO and KEGG enrichment analyses
of target genes of circRNAs were performed. The crucial signaling pathways participating in the
therapeutic process were identified. Finally, a real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction
experiment was conducted to verify the results obtained by sequencing.

Results:

Thirty-two circRNAs are differentially expressed between the two groups, of which
twenty-three circRNAs were elevated in the exosomes-treated group (BEC group). The GO
analysis shows that target genes of differentially expressed circRNAs are mainly enriched in the
intracellular signalactivity, regulation of nucleic acid-templated transcription, Golgi-related activity,
and GTPase activator activity. The KEGG analysis displays that they were involved in the
autophagy biological process and NOD-like receptor signaling pathway. The verification experiment
suggested that mmu_circ_0000425 (ID: 116324210) was both decreased in the DOX
group and elevated in BEC group, which was consistent with the result of sequencing.

Conclusion:

mmu_circ_0000425 in exosomes derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem
cells (BMSC) may have a therapeutic role in alleviating doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity
(DIC).
Research Progress in Single-herb Chinese Medicine and Compound
Medicine for Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhou Guanghui , Zhang Xianquan , Gu Zhuoxu , Zhao Jinlong , Luo Minghui
Published: February 2024

Due to an increase in the aging population, osteoarthritis (OA), especially knee osteoarthritis
(KOA), has increasingly become one of the diseases affecting the quality of life of the
elderly. As the pathogenesis of KOA is still unclear, Western medicine treatment lacks specificity,
and surgical treatment is difficult to cover all patients. Therefore, in recent years, traditional Chinese
medicine (TCM) for the conservative treatment of KOA has received increasing attention.
The advantages of TCM are clear, such as relief of symptoms, fewer adverse reactions, and wider
applicability to patients. This paper mainly discusses the research progress in single-herb TCM
and TCM compounds for KOA, aiming to demonstrate the effectiveness of TCM in the treatment
of KOA. It also provides ideas for future research on the treatment of KOA by TCM and the
pathogenesis of knee osteoarthritis.
Thiourea-Ammonium Chloride Mediated Knoevenagel Condensation as
an Intermediate in the Synthesis of Pyrimidine Scaffolds under
Solvent-free Condition
Authors: Rayate Ankita M. , Gaware Manoj R.
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we have reported solvent solvent-free method for Knoevenagel condensation
reaction of various aldehydes with active methylene compounds using thiourea and ammonium chloride.
The developed method demonstrated high efficiency in the formation of C-C bond. The reaction
proceeds smoothly under mild and solvent-free conditions and the products obtained are in excellent
yield in very short duration. This method is applicable to a wide range of aldehydes with active
methylene compounds.
A Complete Overview of the Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome with Recent Advancement in Clinical Trial
Authors: Mukherjee Swarupananda , Rai Deepti , Ghoshal Debjit , Chakraborty Tania , Karati Dipanjan
Published: February 2024

Background:

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) has emerged as one of the most
common endocrine and metabolic disorders seen in women of childbearing age throughout the
whole world. The complex pathophysiology, different diagnostic criteria, and various manifestations
attached to several environmental factors, including lifestyle influences, have made it one of
the most difficult disorders to treat in recent times. In addition, inadequate knowledge among patients
and a lack of dedicated approved medications have only enhanced the difficulties in treating
such a heterogeneous disorder.

Objective:

The main objective of this review-type paper is to provide a detailed overview of
PCOS along with the current concept of a clinical stance in this complex multigenic disorder.

Method:

The following databases were used for literature searches: PubMed, Frontiers, Science
Direct, Springer, Wiley, and MDPI. For the purpose of finding pertinent articles and contents, the
keywords “PCOS; hirsutism; psychological burden; obesity” and others of a similar nature were
utilized.

Conclusion:

PCOS is a complicated hormonal, metabolic, and psychological condition with many
different clinical manifestations. It is among the most prevalent causes of infertility. Before considering
any medication choices, lifestyle modifications should be considered the primary therapeutic
prescription for PCOS-related infertility. According to recent studies, PCOS does not affect the
risk of ovarian or breast cancer, but it does raise the risk of endometrial cancer in women of all
ages. These results suggest that PCOS may increase the risk of gynaecological cancer morbidity.
The following stage is ovulation stimulation, which is best accomplished with letrozole and is followed
by clomiphene citrate. Women who had not responded to the first-line oral ovulatory
medicine were given gonadotropins as a backup. Early detection of girls with a high propensity to
develop PCOS will be made possible by a comprehensive knowledge of the condition's etiology.
Adolescent PCOS will be better managed overall, related comorbidities will be prevented, and
quality of life will increase with customized therapeutic approaches.
Anti Urolithiatic and Diuretic Potentiality of Hemidesmus indicus R. Br.
Authors: Das Saumya , Mazumder Avijit , Ojha Smriti , Pathak Deepika , Singh Himanshu , Pandey Pratibha , Pal Rashmi Saxena
Published: February 2024

Aim:

The present study investigated the development of kidney stone formation in animal models involving renal tubular stone formation by ethylene glycol and COX-2 selective inhibitor-induced urolithiasis along with the diuretic potentiality by Lipschitz teston Wistar rats.

Background:

Hemidesmus indicus (H. indicus) R. Br. played a prominent role in various ancient
traditional systems of medications and possessed various pharmacological applications. Since the
last few decades, urolithiasis has been a major constraint in both livestock and human health.
Celecoxib administration increased urinary enzyme excretion but did not affect oxalate or citrate
excretion in a urolithiasis model.

Objective:

This research provides a comprehensive account of the ethnobotanical use of H. indicus as an antiurolithiatic and diuretic agent in animal models.

Methods:

The plant material was dried, pulverized into a dry powder, extracted with ethanol, and
analyzed for the presence of various secondary metabolites. The anti-urolithic effect of ethanolic
extract of H. indicus roots in albino rats was investigated using ethylene glycol (0.75%) and COX
-2 selective inhibitor models

Results:

The experimental data showed the significant effect of H. Indicus root extract (HIEE) as
anti-urolithiasis by the prevention of kidney stone formation, also by decreasing crystal nucleation, growth inhibition, decreased aggregation, and crystal retention within the renal tubules. The
effect of HIEE supplementation prevents the impairment of renal stone formation, which was also
confirmed by the histological findings. HIEE also acts as a potent diuretic, which supports the
study.

Conclusion:

The results indicated that HIEE was effective against experimentally induced urolithiasis, and it also acts as a potent diuretic in treated animals. So, it needs to perform future research on medicinal plants, including in vivo mechanistic and human studies for urolithiasis.
Effect of Pioglitazone and Cetuximab on Colon Cancer Stem-like Cell (CCSLCs) Properties
Authors: Alamdar Nasim , Farivar Shirin , Baghaei Kaveh , Hamidieh Amir Ali , Soltaninejad Hossein , Aghdaei Hamid Asadzadeh , Zali Mohammad Reza , Saltanatpour Zohreh
Published: February 2024

Background:

One of the main reasons for cancer resistance to chemotherapy is the
presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in cancer tissues. It is also believed that CSCs are the unique
originators of all tumor cells. On the other hand, the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition pathway
(EMT) can act as the main agent of metastasis. Therefore, it is possible that targeting CSCs as
well as the EMT pathway could help in cancer therapy. Considering that CSCs constitute only a
small percentage of the total tumor mass, enrichment before study is necessary. In our previous
study, CSCs were enriched in the human colon cancer cell line HT29 by induction of EMT. These
CSC-enriched HT29 cells with mesenchymal morphology were named “HT29-shE”. In the present
study, these cells were used to investigate the effect of pioglitazone (Pio) and Cetuximab
(Cet) in order to find CSC and EMT targeting agents.

Methods:

The viability and IC50 rate of cells treated with different concentrations of Pio and Cet
were evaluated using the MTT test. EMT and CSC markers and cell morphology were assessed in
Pio and Cet treated and untreated HT29-shE cells using flow cytometry, realtime PCR, immunocytochemistry,
and microscopic monitoring.

Results:

The findings showed that Pio and Cet at concentrations of 250 μM and 40 μg/ml, respectively,
decrease cell viability by 50%. Also, they were able to reduce the expression of CSC markers
(CD133 and CD44) in the CSC enriched HT29 cell line. Furthermore, Pio and Cet could efficiently
reduce the expression of vimentin as a mesenchymal marker and significantly upregulate
the expression of E-cadherin as an epidermal marker of EMT and its reverse mesenchymal- toepithelial
transition (MET). In addition, the mesenchymal morphology of HT29-shE changed into
epithelial morphology after Cet treatment.

Conclusion:

Pio and Cet could inhibit EMT and reduce CSC markers in the EMT induced/CSC
enriched cell line. We expect that focus on finding EMT/CSC-targeting agents like these drugs
can be helpful for cancer treatment.
Research Progress on Superhydrophobic Surface Preparation Methods and Mechanical Durability
Authors: Xun Meng , Li Zhaolong
Published: February 2024

:

Superhydrophobic surfaces have great application prospects due to their unique surface-
wetting characteristics. However, superhydrophobic surfaces' micro-nano binary rough structure
and low surface energy components are easily damaged or lost by wear and grease, which affects
their durability and limits their practical application, so it is of great significance to study the
durability of superhydrophobic surfaces. The review first introduces the preparation methods and
application fields of superhydrophobic surfaces, then sorts out the test methods for the durability
performance of superhydrophobic surfaces, methods to improve the durability of superhydrophobic
surfaces are summarized, and finally points out some problems in the current research on the
durability of superhydrophobic surfaces, aiming to have a comprehensive understanding of the research
progress of durable superhydrophobic surfaces, provide some theoretical guidance for the
development of durable superhydrophobic surfaces, and look forward to the development direction
and trend of durable superhydrophobic surface research in the future.

:

There have been substantial improvements achieved in the preparation techniques to increase the
mechanical durability of superhydrophobic surfaces and widen their applications.

:

This review examines pertinent patents and articles on the fabrication of superhydrophobic surfaces
from both domestic and foreign sources.

:

The paper introduces the fundamental preparation methods for superhydrophobic surfaces and examines
three common techniques: The template method, the spraying method, and the etching
method. Additionally, the study discusses these preparation methods and presents future development
trends based on the latest research findings. Aiming at the mechanical durability of superhydrophobic
surfaces, the test methods for the durability performance of superhydrophobic surfaces
under mechanical action are reviewed. The paper also suggests four key methods for enhancing
the durability of superhydrophobic surfaces.

:

The refinement of superhydrophobic surface preparation techniques plays a crucial role in enhancing
durability and broadening the applications of these surfaces. Additionally, it holds the potential
to unlock new possibilities across various domains. The future holds promising prospects for
the invention of additional patents and papers focused on superhydrophobic surfaces.