bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy controlled modified reduced switch converter for switched reluctance motor under dynamic loading
Authors: Asati Ritika , Bankar Deepak S. , Apte Aishwarya , Nehete Amit L. , Mandake Yogesh
Published: February 2024

In this paper, modified reduced switch converter topology is used to drive 8/6 pole, 7500 W switched reluctance motor (SRM) with an electric vehicle (EV) load. Fuzzy logic control (FLC) is developed for the modified converter topology and its performance is compared with the proportional integral (PI) controller. Analytical equations, switching pulses and different mode of operation are presented for modified reduced switch converter using double phase magnetization scheme. The converter topology adopts a modified switching sequence i.e., magnetization then freewheeling before demagnetization. It offers lesser torque ripples, reduced phase current and need only four switches for a 4-phase SRM drive. Modified reduced switch converter is simulated in MATLAB-simulation to investigate and compare the steady state waveforms and transient speed response of the PI and FLC. Torque ripple in modified converter is 50% less than the classical converter. Peak overshoot and settling time performance of FLC is superior as compared to PI, when applied to modified converter with EV loading.
Fuzzy expert system design for detecting stunting
Authors: Wanti Linda Perdana , Somantri Oman , Adi Prasetya Nur Wachid , Puspitasari Lina
Published: February 2024

Stunting is a chronic nutritional problem that occurs in toddler due to lack of nutritional intake which results in impaired growth toddler. Usually, toddler who experience stunting are characterized by not increasing weight over a long period of time. Application utilization health which makes it easier for users to access information, one of which can be used to identify toddler who are stunted by selecting symptoms. The symptoms experienced by toddlers go through a system known as the system expert. In this research an expert system will be developed that is capable of early detection developmental disorders in toddlers using the Mamdani fuzzy method. The results obtained from this research are an expert system design for early detection of stunting using the Mamdani fuzzy method. The Mamdani fuzzy method was implemented to group the criteria for toddlers who fall into the stunting category or not from the initial data which is still gray because they are still unsure whether to categorize the toddler as having stunting or not. The detection accuracy rate using the Mamdani fuzzy method is 80.87% compared to expert diagnosis.
IoT-based viscometer fabrication using the falling ball method for laboratory applications
Authors: Nofriandi Alwi , Yulkifli Yulkifli , Asrizal Asrizal , Sati’at Nur Anisa
Published: February 2024

This study outlines the production procedure of internet of things (IoT)- enabled viscometers designed for laboratory use. These viscometers utilize photodiode sensors, lasers, and falling ball techniques. The system is equipped with a temperature sensor that is utilized to quantify the impact of temperature on viscosity. The temperature sensor’s characterization yielded a R-square value of 0.999. The photodiode and laser sensors are utilized to operate a timer within the system, ensuring precise time measurement. The R-square value for the sensor characterization is 0.996. A viscometer equipped with an integrated IoT module for seamless wireless transmission of data. The photodiode timer sensor has an accuracy of 95.76% and a precision of 99.96%, while the temperature sensor has an accuracy of 99.43% and a precision of 99.93%. The viscometer transmits the measured viscosity data to the server using wireless technology. This IoT viscometer has the potential to enhance the efficiency and precision of liquid viscosity measurement in laboratory settings. Additionally, it enables real-time monitoring and data collection for subsequent analysis and research purposes.
Academic Challenges and Coping Mechanisms among Senior High School Students with Overseas Filipino Worker Parents
Authors: Taola Mica , Sagdi Lorence James , Millado Erwina , Harun Nurul Ain , Alviar Jayson
Published: February 2024

Students with Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) parents face a wide array of challenges that affect their well-being. The consequences of parent’s absence directly affect their child’s psychological state which can result to poor academic performance.  This study aimed to determine the academic challenges and coping mechanisms of the Senior High School students with Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) parents through analysis of their lived experience. This study employed a phenomenological research design. In this study a purposive sampling technique was employed to select the six (6) respondents with OFW parents in Senior High School. These students were selected using the following criteria: (1) a senior high school student at Tairan National High School; (2) whose mother is working abroad; and (3) willingness of the respondents to participate in the study. The data collected from the interview were analyzed using thematic analysis. Three (3) subthemes emerged in the senior high school students’ academic challenges: (1) school-related problem; (2) lack of parent’s attention and guidance; and (3) communication. On the other hand, the coping mechanisms of the students include (1) reciprocating parent’s efforts; (2) understanding the parents’ reasons for working abroad; (3) building a circle of friends and family support system. Results showed that the parents’ absence affects the academic performances of the students. However, the students displayed strong commitment to do well in school to reciprocate parents’ sacrifices. Thus, this phenomenological study establishes the baseline in developing programs and support system to the students with OFW parents.
Career Guidance Advocacy Program and The Grade 10 Completers’ Career Choice
Authors: Maestrado Julie T. , Bucar Jimmy D.
Published: February 2024

Upon entering senior high school, students choose a career track. School counselors/designates through the career guidance advocacy activities play a vital role in student’s readiness for related career decision. With this, the study determined the extent of implementation of the Career Guidance Advocacy Program and its relation to the actual career choice of the Senior High School students. A descriptive correlational research design using documentary data was utilized and conducted in 60 selected public secondary schools in the Division of Bohol which involved 1,200 Grade 11&12 students enrolled in school year 2019-2020; with 60 guidance counselors/designates and 60 homeroom advisers. The instrument used were adapted and modified by the researcher based on the guidelines stipulated in Enhance Basic Education Act of 2013; DepEd Order No. 41, series of 2015, and Developing for National Standard for School Counseling in the Philippines questionnaire by Clemeña 2010. The result showed that educational qualification, job description, years of experience, lack of training and resources and time constrained affect the conduct of the career guidance activities. For the actual choice of the students, the majority were not able to follow the NCAE result due to a lot of intervening factors. The test of correlation revealed that the career guidance activities did not directly relate with the choices of the students. Hence, areas for enhancement of the career guidance advocacy program were put forward.
PIEZO Ion Channels in Cardiovascular Functions and Diseases
Authors: Coste Bertrand , Delmas Patrick
Published: February 2024

The cardiovascular system provides blood supply throughout the body and as such is perpetually applying mechanical forces to cells and tissues. Thus, this system is primed with mechanosensory structures that respond and adapt to changes in mechanical stimuli. Since their discovery in 2010, PIEZO ion channels have dominated the field of mechanobiology. These have been proposed as the long-sought-after mechanosensitive excitatory channels involved in touch and proprioception in mammals. However, more and more pieces of evidence point to the importance of PIEZO channels in cardiovascular activities and disease development. PIEZO channel-related cardiac functions include transducing hemodynamic forces in endothelial and vascular cells, red blood cell homeostasis, platelet aggregation, and arterial blood pressure regulation, among others. PIEZO channels contribute to pathological conditions including cardiac hypertrophy and pulmonary hypertension and congenital syndromes such as generalized lymphatic dysplasia and xerocytosis. In this review, we highlight recent advances in understanding the role of PIEZO channels in cardiovascular functions and diseases. Achievements in this quickly expanding field should open a new road for efficient control of PIEZO-related diseases in cardiovascular functions.
Heterogeneity in the Prevalence of Cardiovascular Risk Factors by Ethnicity and Birthplace Among Asian Subgroups: Evidence From the 2010 to 2018 National Health Interview Survey
Authors: Lim Arum , Elias Sabrina , Benjasirisan Chitchanok , Byiringiro Samuel , Chen Yuling , Turkson‐Ocran Ruth‐Alma , Dennison Himmelfarb Cheryl R. , Commodore‐Mensah Yvonne , Koirala Binu
Published: February 2024

Background

Asian people in the United States have different sociodemographic and health‐related characteristics that might affect cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk by ethnicity and birthplace. However, they are often studied as a monolithic group in health care research. This study aimed to examine heterogeneity in CVD risk factors on the basis of birthplace among the 3 largest Asian subgroups (Chinese, Asian Indian, and Filipino) compared with US‐born non‐Hispanic White (NHW) adults.

Methods and Results

A cross‐sectional analysis was conducted using the 2010 to 2018 National Health Interview Survey data from 125 008 US‐born and foreign‐born Chinese, Asian Indian, Filipino, and US‐born NHW adults. Generalized linear models with Poisson distribution were used to examine the prevalence and prevalence ratios of self‐reported hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, physical inactivity, smoking, and overweight/obesity among Asian subgroups compared with US‐born NHW adults. The study included 118 979 US‐born NHW and 6029 Asian adults who self‐identified as Chinese (29%), Asian Indian (33%), and Filipino (38%). Participants' mean (±SD) age was 49±0.1 years, and 53% were females. In an adjusted analysis, foreign‐born Asian Indians had significantly higher prevalence of diabetes, physical inactivity, and overweight/obesity; foreign‐born Chinese had higher prevalence of physical inactivity, and foreign‐born Filipinos had higher prevalence of all 5 CVD risk factors except smoking compared with NHW adults.

Conclusions

This study revealed significant heterogeneity in the prevalence of CVD risk factors among Asian subgroups by ethnicity and birthplace, stressing the necessity of disaggregating Asian subgroup data. Providers should consider this heterogeneity in CVD risk factors and establish tailored CVD prevention plans for Asian subgroups.
First record of the parasitoid family Ismaridae (Hymenoptera, Diaprioidea) from Eocene Baltic and Rovno ambers with the description of a new genus and two new species
Authors: CHEMYREVA VASILISA G. , PERKOVSKY EVGENY E. , VASILENKO DMITRY V.
Published: February 2024

A new genus, Lubomirus gen. nov., of the family Ismaridae (Hymenoptera, Diaprioidea) from the late Eocene Baltic and Rovno ambers is described and illustrated. The new genus is the second known genus of the family Ismaridae. The two new species, Lubomirus masneri sp. nov. from Rovno amber and Lubomirus victori sp. nov. from Baltic amber, are described. The diagnosis of the Ismaridae family and the single extant genus of the family—Ismarus Haliday—are clarified. The systematic position of Cretapria Fujiyama, 1994 is discussed.
Description of a new species of Aegla (Decapoda, Anomura) from the Paraná 3 hydrographic basin, Brazil
Authors: ARANTES TIAGO , SOUZA-SHIBATTA LENICE , TEIXEIRA GUSTAVO MONTEIRO
Published: February 2024

Freshwater crustaceans of the genus Aegla are endemic to southern South America, and present greater richness in the river basins of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. However, recent studies have shown the enormous potential for discovering new species of Aegla in the state of Paraná. In the last six year the number of species recorded has almost doubled, increasing from 9 to 16. In the present work, we expand the current knowledge about the diversity of Aegla in a set of poorly explored drainage basins in the western region of the state and describe a new species, Aegla urussanga n. sp., based on morphological and molecular evidence. A combination of morphological characters supports the new species: orbital spine absent, non-elevated epigastric prominences, robust protogastric lobes with scales, anterior dorsal margin of epimeron 2 armed and with pronounced concavity, sub-rectangular palmar crest of chelipeds, internal margin of the ventral face of the ischium of the cheliped with a proximal stout spine, a distal stout spine, and up to three tubercles with spiniform scales. The molecular data, based on partial COI sequences, also support the distinction of the new species from others that occur in adjacent river basins. The species with the smallest genetic distance from A. urussanga n. sp. is Aegla castro Schmitt, 1942 which occurs in the Iguaçu River basin. The new species occurs in distinct streams, probably interconnected in the past and currently isolated by the Itaipu reservoir and is the second species of Aegla described from the complex of drainage basins called Paraná 3 basin.
Concentric interdigitated dielectrodes on silica substrate to monitor neuroprotective effect of anesthetics
Authors: Wang Gang , Li Qingyang , Gopinath Subash C. B. , Chen Yeng , Xu YanShu
Published: February 2024

General anesthesia is commonly used in major surgeries, in most cases it is completely reversible and central nerve system returns normal after the elimination of anesthetic agent. At the same time, usage of anesthetic agents may result in a long-lasting neurological effect due to increasing
level of neural injury biomarker. Various neuro-proteins have been identified to provide a clear insight of neurological injury, among them, tau protein level fluctuates during the pre- and post-operative periods, which leads to different neurological complications, such as Parkinson’s
and Alzheimer’s diseases. This research was focused to develop a sensitive tau protein biosensor on modified concentric interdigitated dielectrode surface and measured by impedance spectroscopy. The sensing surface with silica substrate and embedded gold dielectrodes were used for aptamer-antibody
sandwich assay and attained the detection limit of tau protein to 1 fM on a linear regression range until 1 nM (R2 = 0.9899; y = 535.04x −398). Further, selective experiments in tau protein spiked artificial cerebrospinal fluid increases the current responses
with the concomitant increment of tau protein. Experiments with complementary aptamer, amyloid-β40 and recombinant human complement failed to response. This tau biosensor helps to quantify tau protein levels silica-gold hybrid surface and monitor the neuroprotective effect of anesthetics.
Effect of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation combined with ulinastatin
Authors: Chen Ke , Zhang Wei , Du Longyu
Published: February 2024

This study aims to investigate the clinical efficacy of combining extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) with ulinastatin in the treatment of severe pneumonia (SP) with respiratory failure, using an immuno-magnetic bead-based ELISA method. A total of 40 patients with SP complicated
by respiratory failure who were admitted to the respiratory department of our hospital from January 2019 to December 2022, were selected. They were divided into the control group (n = 20) and the ECMO group (n = 20). The control group received conventional therapy such as mechanical
ventilation, anti-infection, anticoagulation, and maintaining acid-base balance. The ECMO group established an ECMO system and injected ulinastatin intravenously based on conventional therapy. After 7 days of treatment, arterial blood was collected for blood gas analysis and pulmonary function
index. The level of inflammatory factors was determined using the immunomagnetic bead-ELISA method. Flow cytometry was used to assess T lymphocyte subsets and clinical efficacy between the two groups. The ECMO group exhibited significantly shorter length of hospital stay and mechanical ventilation
duration compared to the control group. Moreover, pulmonary function indexes (FEV1, FVC, PEF) and blood gas indexes were superior in the ECMO group than those in the control group. Additionally, the ECMO group exhibited significantly reduced levels of PCT, IL6, and CRP, and elevated CD3+%
and CD4+% values compared to the control group. In conclusion, the combined therapy demonstrates efficacy in the treatment of patients with SP and respiratory failure, and the immunomagnetic bead-based ELISA method enhances detection efficiency and reduces errors.
Attenuation of propofol-induced hippocampal neuron damage in developing rats by dexmedetomidine
Authors: Wang Huamei , Li Shenghua , Tang Aifeng
Published: February 2024

This study explored the mechanism of dexmedetomidine attenuating propofol damage to hippocampal neurons in rats. By constructing rat hippocampal neuron model and carrying out targeted intervention; enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) detected IL-1β and IL-18 levels;
while Nissl staining observed hippocampus Histopathology; flow cytometry quantitatively analyzed the number of hippocampal neuron cells and apoptosis rate. Moreover, levels of PKA, Caspase-1 and NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3(NLRP3) and corresponding proteins
were measured. Results showed that, there were more Nissl bodies in cytoplasm of hippocampal neurons in control group, and distribution in the cytoplasm was relatively uniform. Moreover, IL-1β and IL-18 in model group continued to increase; while dexmedetomidine effectively inhibited
apoptosis of hippocampal neurons, which may be related to decreased expression of protein kinase A (PKA). After using PKA inhibitors, apoptosis was significantly inhibited, and when the expression of PKA was reduced, Caspase-1 was down-regulated along with reduced NLRP3 level, which improved
the injury of hippocampal neurons. Dexmedetomidine can therefore down-regulate the level of Caspase-1 in hippocampal neurons by inhibiting the PKA signaling pathway, improving apoptosis, reducing the genetic and protein expressions of NLRP3, and slowing down the damage of hippocampal neurons.
Silver nanoparticles green-formulated by Scrophulariastriata: A novel chemotherapeutic drug for the treatment of nerve cancer
Authors: Huang Yanling , Qian Yan , Yin Di , Huang Mian , Morovvati Hassan , Goorani Samaneh
Published: February 2024

The plants use because of their compatibility with the abundance and environment are usually prioritized in synthesizing the silver nanoparticles. In addition, because of their abundance and need lack for special conditions and growth nutrients, plants are suitable options for the production
of silver nanoparticles using biological methods. One of these plants is Scrophularia striata. It belongs to the Scrophulariacae family family and has many medicinal properties in traditional medicine. It has been traditionally consumed by local people recently for helping to
heal wounds and disinfecting them, however, there have not been many studies on it. We herein demonstrate a novel Ag NPs green mediated by S. striata aqueous extract for the nerve cancer treatment under in vitro conditions. Physicochemical and structural properties of the nanoparticles
biomaterial were determined by UV-Vis spectrum, FT-IR, and FE-SEM. The IC50 of Ag NPs against DPPH was 114 μg/mL. In the oncological part of this research, the statue of normal and human peripheral nerve sheath tumor (BL1391 and S462) cells was determined. The IC50
of Ag NPs was 191 and 172 μg/mL against S462 and BL1391. It seems that the prepared nanoparticles have stopped the nerve cancer cells growth and the recent cancer cells have removed with high concentration of nanoparticles. According to the results of this research, it is suggested
that the synthesized Ag NPs may be used as a suitable therapeutic agent against several nervous system tumors.
Gold structured nanourchin as anesthetic biosensor for determining neuroprotective effect
Authors: Fan Min , Gopinath Subash C. B. , Gao Hongjuan
Published: February 2024

Research has proven that confusion, delirium, and cognitive dysfunction are the common symptoms caused by anesthesia. In general, neuroproteins fluctuation is common during the process of anesthetic treatment. Among others, tau protein was found to the higher fluctuations after the
anesthetic process, and it is highly associated with various neuro-related diseases. Monitoring the level of tau protein helps to identify the neuro-related problems during and after the anesthetic processes. This research was focused on developing a tau electrochemical impedance biosensor
on aptamer and antibody-modified electrodes. Aptamer and antibody were immobilized on the gold nanourchin with a chemical linker. Gold nanourchin enhances the probe of aptamer and antibody attachment on the electrode and improves the tau protein detection as low as 1 fM [y = 1.5604x
− 1.5643; R2 = 0.9681], determined on a linear range from 1 fM to 1 nM. Further, control performances with complementary aptamer and non-immune antibodies fail to change the response of the current, indicating the specific detection of tau protein. This tau sensor detects
the tau protein in its lower level and helps to identify the neuro-related problem caused by anesthetics.
Fluoroquinolone and enoxacin molecules are potential urease inhibitors for treating ureolytic bacterial infections
Authors: Alkhalil Samia S.
Published: February 2024

Urease, a nickel-dependent metalloenzyme, has emerged as a significant therapeutic target due to its role in promoting the pathogenesis of various human health conditions. These include the development of pyelonephritis, urolithiasis, peptic ulcers, hepatic encephalopathy, and gastric
ulcers. The currently available treatment involved the usage of strong antibiotics along with proton pump inhibitors to cope with the infection of urease producing bacteria. These conventional treatments are becoming less effective as bacteria are gaining multiple drug resistance. Therefore,
there is a crucial need to identify alternative compounds with potential anti-urease activity and minimal side effects. Fluoroquinolones and Enoxacin derivatives offer antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-urease activities. To improve the chemical diversity
of urease inhibitors, different series of fluoroquinolones and Enoxacin derivatives were evaluated against urease and their antioxidant activity was also evaluated. To achieve this objective, in-silico studies were conducted utilizing molecular docking and adsorption, distribution, metabolism,
excretion, and toxicology (ADMET) models. These analyses were employed to explore potential binding mechanisms and assess the drug-likeness of the compounds against urease enzymes. The inhibitory effect of docked heterocyclic compounds was also verified in-vitro against urease enzyme. Fluoroquinolones
derivatives were found to be active inhibitors at high dose levels but showed minimum inhibition at low concentration. The compound EN from the Enoxacin series exhibited the highest potency as a urease inhibitor, with an IC50 of 45.86 μM, out-performing the standard drug thiourea,
which had an IC50 of 52.20 μM. Additionally, compounds NOX-3 and FB-17 from the fluoroquinolone and Enoxacin series demonstrated significant DPPH free radical scavenging activity, with IC50 values of 98.17 μM and 97.98 μM, respectively. These results were comparable
to the positive control ascorbic acid, which had an IC50 of 48.15 μM. This study demonstrates that Enoxacin derivatives can be further analyzed as potent urease inhibitors, while both Enoxacin and fluoroquinolone derivatives can be developed into more effective drugs to overcome
oxidative stress.
Physical, antimicrobial, and release profiles of orthodontic adhesives modified with chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride
Authors: Alshehri Abdulrahman , Albar Nassreen H.
Published: February 2024

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the properties (physical, antimicrobial, and release profiles) by using modified orthodontic adhesives on extracted teeth. Three primers, Transbond (Tx), Transbond-Chlorhexidine (Tx-CHx), and Transbond-Cetylpyridinium chloride (Tx-CTP), containing
antibacterial agents CHx and CTP, were tested against Streptococcus mutans (Sm) in planktonic and biofilm phases. Their antimicrobial activities (biofilm and growth assays), affected by water aging, were analyzed along with shear bond strength and mode of fracture after bonding
brackets onto bovine incisors. Tx-CHx demonstrated superior antimicrobial activity against in both planktonic and biofilm states, completely inhibiting their growth and biofilm formation. This effectiveness persisted after thermocycling. Conversely, Tx-CTP showed a positive outcome against
microbial activity compared to Tx. Shear bond strength (SBS) (Tx–11.21±1.72; Tx-CTP–12.48±2.50; Tx-CHx–11.57±2.28) and bond failure interface showed no significant differences among the three primers. Adding CHx and CTP to an orthodontic primer could
potentially safeguard enamel from demineralization without negatively impacting its structural characteristics.
The performance improvement of basketball shell prepared with nanomaterials modified rubber supported by wet mixing method
Authors: Wang Hui , Cao Ling , Shao Hejun , Xue Chen
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the performance of rubber composite combined with carbon nanotubes to improve its physicochemical properties during the vulcanization process, thereby improving the quality of basketballs. Natural rubber and butyl rubber were mixed in a 7:3 ratio to prepare a
rubber composite. Subsequently, the rubber composite was mixed with carbon nanotubes. The results demonstrate that the rubber nanocomposite prepared using wet mixing exhibits thermal aging resistance. Furthermore, the rubber nanocomposite demonstrates excellent vulcanization characteristics,
which can achieve a reduction in the cure time of the rubber nanocomposite exceeding 10%. Additionally, the rubber nanocomposite shows good compatibility and mechanical properties, such as elongation at break, hardness, swelling coefficient, and cross-linking density. Notably, under high sulfur
and low sulfur conditions, the decrease in tensile strength of the rubber nanocomposite is significantly smaller compared to that under the normal conditions, indicating a substantial enhancement in flexural resistance for this rubber nanocomposite. In conclusion, the prepared rubber nanocomposite
shows an improvement in mechanical properties, which holds valuable implications for enhancing the quality of rubber basketballs and promoting applications of rubber products.
Application of microencapsulated phase change materials in prefabricated building projects based on building information modeling technology
Authors: Wang Shikun
Published: February 2024

Faced with the rapidly increasing urban population, there is a surge in demand for building construction, accompanied by an incessant rise in building energy consumption. To promote sustainable development and mitigate building energy consumption, this study proposes the utilization
of microencapsulated phase change materials in prefabricated buildings through the integration of building information modeling. We prepare polymethyl methacrylate/n-eicosane/wood cellulose nanocrystal microcapsules using Pickering emulsion through the solvent evaporation method. The results
showed that the material exhibits optimal comprehensive performance at a core–shell ratio of 2:1, with a melting enthalpy of 152.10 J/g and a coating rate of 60.27%. However, when the core–shell ratio increases to 2.5:1, significant performance degradation occurs due to phase change
material leakage. The materials show excellent cycling performance in cold-hot cycling tests, maintaining their melting enthalpy value above 97% even after 100 cycles. Moreover, materials with a core–shell ratio of 2:1 exhibit good thermal stability up to high temperatures (160 °C).
In conclusion, this study has great significance for advancing the progress of prefabricated buildings and sustainable buildings.
Innovative material applications in clothing design research
Authors: Zhou Yueding , Zhu Hongfeng , Chao Yingna
Published: February 2024

With the improvement of living standards, there is a growing demand for clothing that offers both comfort and functionality. Nanomaterials have emerged as a hot topic in clothing design due to their unique structure and performance characteristics. In this study, we develop a composite
nanofabric with exceptional water resistance and breathability using polyurethane (PU), fluorinated polyurethane (FPU), and polyvinyl butyral (PVB), namely PU-FPU-PVB composite nanofabric. The mechanical properties, wettability, waterproofing, and thermal comfort are evaluated. The results
demonstrate that optimizing the TPU and PVB contents is crucial for obtaining PU-FPU-PVB composite nanofabrics with exceptional performance. Low TPU concentrations fail to provide sufficient viscosity for even dispersion within the hot melt adhesive mesh film, while higher concentrations enable
better dispersion due to increased viscosity provided by TPU. Additionally, increasing the content of PVB from 0 wt% to 100 wt% led to decreased moisture permeability from 10.5 kg ·m−2 · d−1 to 3.0 kg ·m−2 · d−1
during thermal comfort testing. Its permeability dropped from 22.5 mm/s to 2.8 mm/s under these conditions. These findings indicate that our designed composite nanofabric exhibits excellent thermal comfort when incorporating appropriate levels of PVB into its composition, making it an ideal
high-performance material for waterproof and breathable fabrics with superior comfort and functionality in clothing design applications. In conclusion, PU-FPU-PVB composite nanofabrics hold great potential for fostering the innovative advancement of nanomaterials in the realm of clothing design.
Effect of nano-silver coated catheter combined with comprehensive care on postoperative infection and rehabilitation in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
Authors: Yang Haiting , Guo Chunmian , Zuo Qian , Jiang Wei , Qu Huanmin , Zhang Yani , Wang Xiaohong , He Qianfeng
Published: February 2024

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is an effective treatment method for coronary atherosclerosis, aiming to improve patients’ quality of life and facilitate their return to normal activities after surgery. This study examines the effects of comprehensive nursing intervention
and application of nano-silver coated catheter on postoperative infection and rehabilitation among patients who have undergone coronary artery bypass grafting. The study included 72 patients, randomly assigned into an intervention group and a control group, with 36 patients in each. The control
group received standard care, while the intervention group received comprehensive care along with postoperative application of nano-silver coated catheter. The study compared various factors, including the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) score, quality of life score, postoperative recovery,
postoperative infection, satisfaction, and adverse reactions between the two groups. The intervention group exhibited better scores in HAMD, HAMA, PSQI and quality of survival score when compared to the control group. Moreover, the intervention group experienced an earlier time to first bowel
movement and first defecation after surgery. The intervention group also demonstrated lower rates of urinary protein detection, pathogen detection, and serum inflammatory factor levels compared to the control group. Additionally, the overall incidence of complications in the control group
was higher at 27.8% compared to 8.3% in the intervention group. Furthermore, the satisfaction level in the intervention group was significantly higher at 97.2%, in contrast to 83.3% in the control group. Overall, comprehensive care combined with the postoperative application of a nano-silver
coated catheter can effectively address patients’ emotional needs and accelerate recovery. It also reduces the incidence of infection, ultimately enhancing the quality of life and satisfaction levels among patients. This study provides a good nursing plan for the postoperative recovery
of CABG patients, which is conducive to promoting the speed of postoperative recovery and improving the quality of life of patients.
Preparation and optical properties of rare earth fluoride and its related composite materials
Authors: Li Jing , Bai Xiaoyan
Published: February 2024

Rare earth fluoride and its composite materials have shown broad application prospects in fields such as optoelectronics and photocatalysis. In this study, we prepared rare earth fluoride (β-NaYF4 nanocrystals) and its related composite materials (β-NaYF4/ZnO
composite and GQDs@NaYF4 nanomaterials) using a solvothermal method and investigated their optical performance. The characterization and performance of the prepared materials were analyzed using a transmission electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, upconversion emission spectra, and fluorescence
lifetime imaging microscopy. The results show that the crystal thickness of β-NaYF4 nanocrystals is approximately 45.0 nm when the F−: Ln3+ value is 6. Furthermore, X-ray diffraction analysis reveals that diffraction peak positions in β-NaYF4
nanocrystals correspond to the peak positions of standard card at different doping concentrations of Zn2+ Moreover, it was observed that the highest fluorescence lifetime of Tm3+ ion in 1G4 is 778 μs when the doping concentration of Zn2+
is 1 mol%. When the concentration of exonuclease III increases to 22.5U, the upconversion fluorescence emission intensity of GQDs@NaYF4 nanomaterial is about 34 ∗ 106 a.u. When the activation reaction time is 90 minutes, the upconversion emission intensity of GQDs@NaYF4 nanomaterial
is about 37 ∗ 106 a.u. In conclusion, we successfully prepared rare earth fluoride and its composite materials with excellent optical properties through the solvothermal method.
Investigation on the oil sorption capability of silkworm cocoon waste
Authors: Shao Jiaxing , Jiang Yueqi , Huang Huiming , Zhao HongPing , Cheng Lan
Published: February 2024

In this study, degummed and undegummed silkworm cocoon wastes were used to investigate their oil sorption capabilities for three kinds of oils, namely motor oil, vegetable oil, and crude oil. The laboratory-scale oil sorption results reveal that degummed silkworm cocoon waste has sorption capacities of 16.7, 15.8, and 14.2 g/g for motor oil, vegetable oil, and crude oil, respectively. It exhibits higher sorption capacities for these three oils compared with raw cocoons and cocoon scrap. These sorbents also exhibited excellent oil/water selectivity, retention capacity, and reusability. According to the large-scale experiment, the crude oil can be removed completely by degummed silkworm cocoon waste in 20 min, which shows that degummed silkworm cocoon waste could be considered a good alternative to synthetic sorbent materials applied to oil removal and recycling.
Traversing Uncharted Territory? The Legislative and Regulatory Landscape of Heritable Human Genome Editing in Australia
Authors: Pandos Olga C
Published: February 2024

In 2018, the birth of the world’s first ‘CRISPR Babies’ rendered the global community in disbelief. This was the catalyst for an international moratorium on Heritable Human Genome Editing (‘HHGE’). For the first time, the international community was prompted to consider a pathway forward to regulate HHGE. In light of the evolving maturity of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (‘CRISPR’) as a biotechnology, it is timely to evaluate Australian federal legal and regulatory frameworks governing human genome editing. The response to HHGE must carefully balance the need to prevent unethical applications, against the progress of research to improve and refine the technology. This article argues Australia’s federal legislative regime must be reviewed to ensure it has the necessary capabilities to effectively regulate HHGE. It applies three schools of thought which offer an instructive theoretical lens to understand how Australian law has responded to advancements in technology. In addition, an analysis of the governing federal legislation reveals three regulatory gaps — complexity, operational ambiguity and inconsistent legislative objectives. Together, these gaps may be indicative of a legislative and regulatory landscape that is no longer fit for purpose.
Review of laser cladding coating on wear and fatigue of railway wheels/rails
Authors: Yang Kaiqin , Zhang Tianli , Zhu Zhiming , Xu Lianyong , Lin Sanbao , Kou Sindo , Tillmann Wolfgang
Published: February 2024

With the rapid development of high-speed railway, wheel/rail premature wear and fatigue cracks occur frequently. Laser cladding high-quality coatings with high wear resistance and fatigue resistance on the damaged surface of wheel/rail can prolong its service life. In this review, the latest research progress of laser cladding Fe-based, Co-based and Ni-based coatings on the wear and fatigue of railway wheels/rails at home and abroad is reviewed. It is concluded that the wear resistance and fatigue resistance of Co-based alloy coatings are better than those of other alloy coatings. Adding strengthening elements to alloy powders can improve the welding process and improve the comprehensive properties of the coatings. Additionally, the laser cladding of railway wheel/rail is further envisaged as well.
Development of a Job Retention Vocational Rehabilitation Intervention for People with Multiple Sclerosis Following the Person-Based Approach
Authors: De Dios Pérez Blanca , das Nair Roshan , Radford Kathryn
Published: February 2024

Objective

To describe the process of developing a job retention vocational rehabilitation intervention for people with multiple sclerosis.

Design

We used the person-based approach, to develop interventions through an iterative process incorporating stakeholders’ views, resulting in an intervention that is likely to be more acceptable, contextually relevant, and implementable for end-users. Phase 1 combined the results of a systematic review and interview study to develop the guiding principles and intervention logic model. Phase 2 involved conceptual testing and refining the intervention with stakeholder feedback. We present the final intervention following the template for intervention description and replication.

Participants

We recruited 20 participants for Phase 1 (10 people with multiple sclerosis, four employers, six healthcare professionals), and 10 stakeholders (three people with multiple sclerosis, seven healthcare professionals) for Phase 2 to contribute to the intervention refinement process.

Results

Stakeholders described the need for an individually tailored intervention to support people with multiple sclerosis to manage symptoms and workplace relationships. A stepped-care approach and remote support were deemed essential. The resulting intervention involves an initial assessment of employment needs, vocational goal setting, up to 10 h of tailored support (e.g., reasonable adjustments, employer engagement, legal rights), and a final review to discuss future steps. People with multiple sclerosis can include their employer for advice to optimise the management of the employee with multiple sclerosis at work.

Conclusion

The person-based approach provided a rigorous framework to systematically understand the vocational needs of people with multiple sclerosis and develop a vocational rehabilitation intervention.
Pathogenic soluble tau peptide disrupts endothelial calcium signaling and vasodilation in the brain microvasculature
Authors: Mughal Amreen , Sackheim Adrian M , Koide Masayo , Bonson Grace , Ebner Grace , Hennig Grant , Lockette Warren , Nelson Mark T , Freeman Kalev
Published: February 2024

The accumulation of the microtubule-associated tau protein in and around blood vessels contributes to brain microvascular dysfunction through mechanisms that are incompletely understood. Delivery of nutrients to active neurons in the brain relies on capillary calcium (Ca2+) signals to direct blood flow. The initiation and amplification of endothelial cell Ca2+ signals require an intact microtubule cytoskeleton. Since tau accumulation in endothelial cells disrupts native microtubule stability, we reasoned that tau-induced microtubule destabilization would impair endothelial Ca2+ signaling. We tested the hypothesis that tau disrupts the regulation of local cerebral blood flow by reducing endothelial cell Ca2+ signals and endothelial-dependent vasodilation. We used a pathogenic soluble tau peptide (T-peptide) model of tau aggregation and mice with genetically encoded endothelial Ca2+ sensors to measure cerebrovascular endothelial responses to tau exposure. T-peptide significantly attenuated endothelial Ca2+ activity and cortical capillary blood flow in vivo. Further, T-peptide application constricted pressurized cerebral arteries and inhibited endothelium-dependent vasodilation. This study demonstrates that pathogenic tau alters cerebrovascular function through direct attenuation of endothelial Ca2+ signaling and endothelium-dependent vasodilation.
Philadelphia chromosome-positive T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a case report
Authors: Dong Qianze , Darwish Tarneem , Howard Meyerson , Shetty Shashirekha , Wang Yang , Xiu Yan , Gallogly Molly , Zhao Chen
Published: February 2024

Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is a rare and aggressive type of acute leukemia. The Philadelphia chromosome is the hallmark of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). The differentiation between Ph+ T-ALL and T-cell lymphoblastic crisis of CML may be problematic in some cases. Here, we report a rare case of de novo Ph+ T-ALL that presented a diagnostic challenge. The overall clinical, immunophenotypic, cytogenetic, and xenotransplantation results suggest a diagnosis of Ph+ T-ALL. The patient was treated with induction chemotherapy including imatinib followed by haploidentical stem cell transplantation and achieved complete remission.
Passaged Articular Chondrocytes From the Superficial Zone and Deep Zone Can Regain Zone-Specific Properties After Redifferentiation
Authors: Davis Elizabeth E.R. , Manzoni Thomas J. , Bianchi Vanessa J. , Weber Joanna F. , Wu Po Han , Regmi Suresh C. , Waldman Stephen D. , Schmidt Tannin A. , Su Alvin W. , Kandel Rita A. , Parreno Justin
Published: February 2024

Background:

Bioengineered cartilage is a developing therapeutic to repair cartilage defects. The matrix must be rich in collagen type II and aggrecan and mechanically competent, withstanding compressive and shearing loads. Biomechanical properties in native articular cartilage depend on the zonal architecture consisting of 3 zones: superficial, middle, and deep. The superficial zone chondrocytes produce lubricating proteoglycan-4, whereas the deep zone chondrocytes produce collagen type X, which allows for integration into the subchondral bone. Zonal and chondrogenic expression is lost after cell number expansion. Current cell-based therapies have limited capacity to regenerate the zonal structure of native cartilage.

Hypothesis:

Both passaged superficial and deep zone chondrocytes at high density can form bioengineered cartilage that is rich in collagen type II and aggrecan; however, only passaged superficial zone–derived chondrocytes will express superficial zone–specific proteoglycan-4, and only passaged deep zone–derived chondrocytes will express deep zone–specific collagen type X.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Superficial and deep zone chondrocytes were isolated from bovine joints, and zonal subpopulations were separately expanded in 2-dimensional culture. At passage 2, superficial and deep zone chondrocytes were seeded, separately, in scaffold-free 3-dimensional culture within agarose wells and cultured in redifferentiation media.

Results:

Monolayer expansion resulted in loss of expression for proteoglycan-4 and collagen type X in passaged superficial and deep zone chondrocytes, respectively. By passage 2, superficial and deep zone chondrocytes had similar expression for dedifferentiated molecules collagen type I and tenascin C. Redifferentiation of both superficial and deep zone chondrocytes led to the expression of collagen type II and aggrecan in both passaged chondrocyte populations. However, only redifferentiated deep zone chondrocytes expressed collagen type X, and only redifferentiated superficial zone chondrocytes expressed and secreted proteoglycan-4. Additionally, redifferentiated deep zone chondrocytes produced a thicker and more robust tissue compared with superficial zone chondrocytes.

Conclusion:

The recapitulation of the primary phenotype from passaged zonal chondrocytes introduces a novel method of functional bioengineering of cartilage that resembles the zone-specific biological properties of native cartilage.

Clinical Relevance:

The recapitulation of the primary phenotype in zonal chondrocytes could be a possible method to tailor bioengineered cartilage to have zone-specific expression.
Thick silk fibroin vascular graft: A promising tissue-engineered scaffold material for abdominal vein grafts in middle-sized mammals
Authors: Fukuda Kaito , Kaneko Junichi , Kiritani Sho , Sawa Yui , Morito Masaaki , Tanaka Mariko , Ushiku Tetsuo , Cheng Chieh-Jen , Tanaka Takashi , Tanaka Ryo , Asakura Tetsuo , Kawaguchi Yoshikuni , Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Hasegawa Kiyoshi
Published: February 2024

Abdominal vein replacement with synthetic tissue-engineered vascular grafts constructed from silk-based scaffold material has not been reported in middle-sized mammals. Fourteen canines that underwent caudal vena cava replacement with a silk fibroin (SF) vascular graft (15 mm long and 8 mm diameter) prepared with natural silk biocompatible thread were allocated to two groups, thin and thick SF groups, based on the graft wall thickness. The short-term patency rate and histologic reactions were compared. The patency rate at 2 weeks after replacement in the thin and thick SF groups was 50% and 88%, respectively ( p = 0.04). CD31-positive endothelial cells covered the luminal surface of both groups at 4 weeks. The elastic modulus of the thick SF graft was significantly better than that of the thin SF graft (0.0210 and 0.0007 N/m2, p < 0.01). Roundness of thick SF groups ( o = 0.8 mm) was better than thin SF ( o = 2.0 mm). There was significant difference between the groups ( p = 0.01). SF vascular grafts are a promising tissue-engineered scaffold material for abdominal venous system replacement in middle-sized mammals, with thick-walled grafts being superior to thin-walled grafts.