bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic Review of Self-Assessment Scales for Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia
Authors: Metivier Lucie , Dollfus Sonia
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Negative symptoms (NS) significantly impair the outcome of schizophrenia, primarily due to their effect on quality of life and their resistance to pharmacological treatments. Several scales have been developed to assess the various dimensions of NS, including avolition, anhedonia, alogia, social withdrawal, and blunted affect. While observer-rated scales are the most commonly used, self-assessment tools remain underutilized. However, self-assessments offer a promising approach for gaining insights into the personal experiences of individuals. The objective of this review was to identify and report the psychometric properties of self-assessment scales for NS that are relevant for both research and clinical practice, with a focus on tools that assess multiple domains of NS in order to support comprehensive evaluations and tailored therapeutic strategies. Methods: We conducted an exhaustive literature review following PRISMA guidelines to identify self-evaluation scales that evaluate several domains of NS in the MEDLINE and Web of Science databases. The COSMIN checklist was used to assess the methodological quality of each tool. Results: Our review identified 5 self-assessment scales. Among these, two scales received a Grade A recommendation for use in clinical or research practice: the Self-evaluation Negative Symptom (SNS), which assesses the five domains of NS, and the Motivation And Pleasure Scale Self-report (MAP-SR), which evaluates anhedonia, avolition, and social withdrawal. Conclusions: The SNS and the MAP-SR are the only tools with sufficient psychometric properties, making them reliable for use in both research and clinical practice. Despite the development of self-assessment tools for NS, their integration into research and clinical settings remains limited, highlighting the need for increased utilization to enhance the understanding and management of these symptoms.
Technostress and Digital Burnout in the Context of Occupational Therapy: Definition, Scientific Scope, and Relevance
Authors: Tiebel Jakob , Ernst Franziska
Published: December 2024

The digital transformation significantly influences occupational therapy (OT) across various levels. Technostress (TS) and digital burnout (DB) emerge as consequences of excessive demands in managing information and communication technologies, negatively impacting job satisfaction among professionals, the therapeutic alliance, and clients' engagement in meaningful activities. This article provides a conceptual definition of TS and DB, examines these phenomena through a multidisciplinary lens, and synthesizes the current state of research. Based on these findings, implications for OT practice are proposed to address the challenges associated with digital transformation.
Unexpected or Underrated Clinical Indicators Associated with the Diagnosis of Growth Hormone Deficiency Based on the Results of Stimulation Tests in Children with Short Stature
Authors: Smyczyńska Joanna , Hilczer Maciej , Stawerska Renata
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Diagnosis of growth hormone (GH) deficiency (GHD) requires confirmation by decreased GH peak in stimulation test (GHST). Despite physiological changes in GH secretion, the same cut-off for GH peak in GHST is recommended throughout childhood. There are also reports indicating a high rate of false positive GHST results. The aim of the study was to identify prognostic factors of GHD in children with short stature, depending on clinical parameters and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) concentration. Methods: Analysis included 1592 children with short stature, in whom height weight, body mass index (BMI), GH peak in two GHST, IGF-1 concentration and bone age (BA) were assessed. Diagnosis of GHD was based on GH peak in two GHST below 10.0 µg/l, otherwise the diagnosis was idiopathic short stature (ISS). Results: GHD was diagnosed in 604 patients (37.9%). There was no difference between the groups GHD and ISS in age, BA, and height, while children with GHD had significantly lower (p<0.001) BMI and IGF-1. The incidence of GHD was different in in different age, BA, height and BMI ranges, also in boys and in girls. After classifying the patients with respect to nutritional status, GH peak was the lowest while IGF-1 and IGF-1 SDS for age and sex – the highest in children with overnutrition, the opposite relationship was found in ones with undernutrition. Conclusions: The assumption of the same cut-off value of GH peak for all GHST performed in children should be modified by personalized interpretation of the results of these tests. Further studies are necessary to establish proper cut-offs for GH peak in GHST and possibly also for IGF-1 levels.
Responses of Growth and Yield of Apple–Polygonatum sibiricum Intercropping System to Agronomical Measures and Supplemental Irrigation on the Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Sun Yubo , Ma Wenchang , Luo Chengjiang , Wang Dengjie , Qiao Bin , Xin Rui , Liu Haiqing
Published: December 2024

The competition between species for soil water represents a significant constraint on the growth and productivity of species within agroforestry systems on the Loess Plateau. This study employed field experiments conducted in 2022 and 2023 to elucidate the impact of agronomic measures（straw mulching, film mulching, root barrier treatment and increasing the spacing between crops and trees）and supplemental irrigation（the lower limits of 55%, 70% and 85% of the field's water holding capacity at three key stages of Polygonatum sibiricum） on the growth, yield and water use efficiency of the components of the apple–Polygonatum sibiricum intercropping system. The findings indicated that all agronomic measures resulted in an increase in soil water content within the intercropping system, with film mulching emerging as the most effective approach. Moreover, the application of film mulching markedly enhanced the growth and yield of the components of the intercropping system, thereby establishing it as an optimal agronomic measure for the apple–Polygonatum sibiricum intercropping system. With the exception of water use efficiency, the growth and yield of the components of the intercropping system increased with the greater quantity of supplemental irrigation. In the Loess Plateau region, where precipitation resources are scarce, film mulching was employed in the apple–Polygonatum sibiricum intercropping system. Meanwhile, the lower supplemental irrigation limits for the Polygonatum sibiricum at the flowering–fruiting stage, fruiting–mature stage and seedling–flowering stage were set at 55%, 85% and 70% of the field water holding capacity, respectively. These measures can assist in alleviating interspecies soil water competition in the apple–Polygonatum sibiricum intercropping system, thereby enhancing the growth, yield and water use efficiency of the intercropping system.
Environmental Anamnesis of Patients Suffering Lung Cancer to Verify the Cumulative Impact Due to an Incorrect Patient-Environment Relationship
Authors: Ingegnoli Vittorio , Pagani Silvia , Raschi Stefania , Bonacina Cristiano , Piluso Martina , Salandini Maria Chiara , Ripamonti Riccardo , Milano Chiara , Aglione Stefania , Maddalena Raffaele , Artale Salvatore Agatino , Cuttin Maria Serena , Bonizzi Luigi , Scarpazza Paolo
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Recent researches on Mortality rate (MR) Vs Bionomic functionality (BF) in the territory of the province of Monza and Milan led to the knowledge of the state of the environment of each municipality. This study verifies the need for an anamnesis capable of highlighting the presence of Cumulative Environmental Stress (ECS) and verifies the differences between smoking and non-smoking patients in their relationship with the living environment. Methods: Two questionnaires collected the patients' responses. Their evaluation is based on the cumulative impact of stress due to an incorrect Cumulative Wrong Relationships (cWR), detected through Physio-Environmental parameters (Wrong Relationships (WR-Phys)) increased by the stress due to the Wrong Relationships "Psychosocial" environment (WR-PSoc). These tables were tested in the Pneumology department of the Vimercate Hospital (Monza-Brianza) in 70 lung cancer patients. cWR receives a further cumulative impact from the bionomic conditions of the landscape unit where the patient lives, measurable by BF, leading to ECS. Results: All cases present a high ECS (above the norm), so a correlation emerges between the disease and the patient-environment relationship. An indication of morbidity is related to ECS levels. Smoker and ex-smoker patients differ from non-smoker in oncological histotypes independently from BF levels, and the ECS values of smoker are higher due to the heavy WR-PSoc factors. Conclusions: The examined patients present a high ECS, so, the distorted human-environment relationship is also accompanied by severe illnesses. Anamnesis’ extension to environmental parameters is to be suggested, also as a prevention factor.
Weighted Entropy: Evaluating Feasible Weights with an Inversion Procedure and Eliciting a New Probability-Possibility Transformation
Authors: Casquilho* José Pinto , Matos Vítor
Published: December 2024

In this article, after an extended literature survey on the topics of weighted entropy and possibility theory, including probability-possibility transformations, we present some new results regarding the analytical study of the maximum point of weighted entropy. Then, we build an inversion procedure which allows for computing feasible weights given an optimal point solution, which shows to be insensitive to a positive linear scaling. From there, we associate the calculated feasible weights with a possibility distribution and show that the inversion procedure can be interpreted to elicit a new probability-possibility transformation, which is studied from the perspective of a set of axioms including consistency and preference order preservation. Numeric examples are outlined and some related criteria are evaluated while the new probability-possibility transformation is compared with other standard possibility distributions mentioned in the literature, with the results showing an admissible performance. However, there is an intrinsic limitation regarding a least upper bound of the optimal point of weighted entropy and another restriction concerning a threshold for consistency, but an alternative is still mentioned that can be considered for future work related to this subject.
The Manchester Charcot Ankle Neuroarthropathy (M-CAN) Classification System
Authors: Subramaniam Kularaj , Rusu Iulia Valeria , Bowling Frank Lee , Pillai Anand
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Charcot Neuroarthropathy (CN) is the sequelae of longstanding poorly controlled diabetes. This has been detrimental with subsequent cause to the increased amputations and mortality. The lack of early identification and referral for specialized management of these condition had tremendously uplifted the financial burden to the healthcare system worldwide. There are a few recognized classifications; Eichenholtz, Brodsky, Sanders and Frykberg classification systems, that has been useful in the use of Charcot foot management. There is no currently available classification system for ankle CN. The aim of this article is to institute a new classification system for ankle CN – M-CAN. This classification includes the pattern of deformity, amount of bone loss, status of infection and ulceration, glycaemic controls and pe-dal perfusion status. Methods: A 10-years pool, retrospective review of diabetic CN patients with ankle de-formity, under the care of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT). Clinical and radiographical assessment was analyzed and an ankle CN classification was constructed, incorporating the Eichenholtz stage at which the patient obtained the treatment. Results: A total of 75 CN ankle were identified and the coronal and sagittal planes of deformity was reviewed. The osseous loss was well documented along with the planes of deformity. The presence of cutaneous break and status of infection were also identified. As a result, large number of the patients were classified as Type 1-d Stage 3. This elaborates into varus ankle with com-bined 2 different articulating joint bone loss. Conclusions: This new classification system for ankle CN, would be of substantial benefit in providing an understanding of the deformity patterns and for descriptive purposes. It enables the condition to be easily grouped in accordance with the acquired deformities and os-seous loss. This would help the treating surgeon or practitioners to perceive a better understanding of the disease progress and plan ahead for the further management.
In-Situ Investigation of Copepod Predators of Ichthyophthirius multifiliis Theronts from Fish-Farming Pond
Authors: Wang Lijun , Xi Bingwen , Chen Kai , Xie Jun , Pan Liangkun
Published: December 2024

Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, a parasitic ciliate, causes "white spot disease" in freshwater fish and poses a significant threat to global freshwater aquaculture. To eliminating the free-swimming theront stage from the aquaculture environment is a critical measure for controlling I. multifiliis infections. The natural predator of I. multifiliis theronts in fish-farming ponds were identified using fluorescent dye-labelled live theronts and quantitative PCR; meanwhile, the zooplankton community composition in the positive ponds of I. multifiliis detected by quantitative PCR, were analyzed by eDNA metabarcoding assay. The results revealed that predation on theronts by cyclopoid copepods, in-cluding Cyclops vicinus, Thermocyclops taihokuensis, Cyclops sp., Thermocyclops sp., Eucyclops sp., and Mesocyclops sp. from the in-situ predation aquatic ecosystem, and among these copepods, C. vicinus was identified as a natural dominant predator of I. multifiliis in spring and winter. This study provides a scientific basis for further exploration and utilization of natural predators to enhance sustainable and environmentally friendly control strategies against I. multifiliis.
De Novo Assembly of the Polyhydroxybutyrate (Phb) Producer Azohydromonas lata Strain H1 Genome and Genomic Analysis of Phb Production Machinery
Authors: Traversa Daniele , Pazzani Carlo , D’Addabbo Pietro , Trisolini Lucia , Chiara Matteo , Oliva Marta , Marzella Angelo , Mandorino Camilla , Calia Carla , Chimienti Guglielmina , Manzari Caterina , Pesole Graziano , Scrascia Maria
Published: December 2024

Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) is a biodegradable natural polymer produced by different prokaryotes as a valuable carbon and energy storage compound. Its biosynthesis pathway requires the sole expression of the phaCAB operon, although auxiliary genes play a role in controlling polymer accumulation, degradation, granules formation and stabilisation. Due to its biodegradability, PHB is currently regarded as a promising alternative to synthetic plastics for industrial/biotechnological applications. Azohydromonas lata strain H1 has been reported to accumulate PHB by using simple, inexpensive carbon sources. Here we present the first de novo genome assembly of the A. lata strain H1. The genome assembly is over 7.7Mb in size including a circular megaplasmid of approximately 456Kbp. In addition to the phaCAB operon, single genes ascribable to PhaC and PhaA functions and auxiliary genes were also detected. A comparative genomic analysis of the available genomes of the genus Azohydromonas revealed the presence of phaCAB and auxiliary genes in all Azohydromonas species investigated, suggesting the PHB production is a common feature of the genus. Based on sequence identity, we also suggest A. australica as the closest species to which the phaCAB operon of the strain H1 reported in 1998 is similar.
CFD Numerical Simulation of Slurry Flow Characteristics Under the Clogged Form of Coal Gangue Slurry Transportation Pipeline
Authors: Zhu Lei , Li Zhi , Wu Yuyi , Liu Chengyong , Zhang Dingding , Chai Jing , Gu Wenzhe , Ding Ziwei , Gao Lei , Qiu Fengqi , Ma Chenyang
Published: December 2024

Slurry filling technology has gradually been adopted in coal mines in the northwest region. However, due to the complexity of slurry transport pipelines, blockages remain a frequent issue. Pipeline blockages can adversely impact production, reducing operational efficiency, with different blockage types causing varying degrees of harm. Despite the significance of this issue, there is limited in-depth analysis in the literature, especially regarding the role of pressure in pipeline blockages. This study utilizes FLUENT software for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of slurry pipeline blockages, focusing on the impact of blockage morphology, location, and extent on slurry transport pressure distribution. The results indicate that the greater the blockage extent, the more pronounced the pressure loss along the pipeline. Furthermore, blockage morphology also has a varying effect on pressure drop. At lower blockage levels, the pressure drop variation across the three blockage types is relatively minor. However, when the blockage exceeds 50%, sedimentation-type blockages cause the most significant harm. The study analyzes the reasons behind this and offers recommendations to mitigate sedimentation-type blockages. Within 1 meter downstream of the blockage, the flow velocity rapidly decreases to near zero, creating a stagnant zone that accelerates the deposition of gangue particles, thereby worsening the blockage. After an instantaneous blockage occurs, the location of the blockage has little effect on the pipeline's pressure drop. Among the three blockage types, the impact on slurry pressure in the pipeline is ranked as follows: sedimentation-type blockage > composite blockage > attachment-type blockage.
Simulating the Failure Mechanism of High Slope Angles Under Rainfall-Mining Coupling Using MatDEM
Authors: Li Qihang , Wang Yunmin , Hou Di , Jiang Song , Gong Bin , Li Xiaoshuang
Published: December 2024

The safety production of gold, silver, copper, and other important metals is seriously threatened in the process of mining from open-pit to underground due to various factors such as infiltration caused by rainfall and unloading during mining. Furthermore, the current situation of open-pit mining in an increasing number of mines presents a high and steep terrain, which poses significant security risks. Accordingly, it is of great practical significance to investigate the failure mechanism of high slope angles to ensure the long-term safe mining of mines, considering factors such as rainfall infiltration and excavation unloading. In this study, the slope failure of high slope angles (45°, 55°, and 65°) under rainfall-mining coupling was analyzed using the discrete element MatDEM numerical simulation software. Herein the stress distribution, failure characteristics, and energy conversion of the model were simulated under different slope angles to analyze the failure mechanism at each stage. The numerical simulation results indicate that the steeper the slope angle, the more severe the damage. Moreover, the reduction of elastic potential energy during the mine room mining stage is similar to that of mechanical energy. During the pillar mining stage, stress is concentrated in each goaf, resulting in a greater reduction of mechanical energy compared to elastic potential energy. Ultimately, after the completion of the continuous pillar mining stage, stress becomes concentrated in the failure area, and the effect of slope angle on mechanical energy reduction becomes evident after complete collapse of the model.
Sensitivity of a Dutch Wrist Circumference–Dependent Upper Limit of Normal of the Median Nerve in an Italian Population of Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: An Observational Study
Authors: Olde Dubbelink Tom B.G. , Ginanneschi Federica , Falsetti Paolo , Meulstee Jan , Bartels Ronald H.M.A. , Verhagen Wim I.M.
Published: December 2024

Background: Between-laboratory variability exists in the upper limit of normal (ULN) for the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the median nerve (MN) used to confirm a carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) diagnosis. In this study, we examine whether a Dutch wrist circumference–dependent (WCD) equation for the ULN of the CSA performs similarly in Italian and Dutch populations, making it population-independent. Methods: The wrist circumferences (WCs) and MN CSAs were measured for 55 Italian (85 wrists) and 175 Dutch (175 wrists) patients with CTS. The numbers of wrists considered abnormal using a local Italian ULN (9 mm2; ULN9), a Dutch fixed ULN (11 mm2; ULN11), the WCD equation (y=0.88*x-4, y = ULN of the MN CSA (mm2) and x = wrist circumference (cm)) and electrodiagnostic testing (EDX) were compared. Results: In the Italian and Dutch populations, respectively, abnormal ultrasonography was seen in 83.5% and 78.3% (p=0.321) of patients when using the ULN9, 49.4% and 50.3% (p=0.895) for the ULN11, and 61.1% and 55.4% (p=0.379) for the WCD equation. In 12 Italian patients with small WCs, 9 (75%), 3 (25%) and 8 (66.7%) wrists were considered abnormal (ULN9, ULN11 and WCD, respectively). All Italian patients had abnormal EDX results, while this was 67.4% for the Dutch patients (p<0.0001). Conclusions: No differences were found in the wrist circumferences and MN CSAs of the Italian and Dutch patients. The WCD ULN for the MN CSA in patients with CTS performed similarly irrespective of the population, and could be used for patients with smaller wrists.
Hydrogen-Induced Degradation of Metallic Materials – A Short Review
Authors: Krella Alicja
Published: December 2024

Currently, hydrogen is one of the energy carriers. In our public space, vehicles (passenger cars, city buses) powered by hydrogen are already driving. Also in the chemical and petrochemical industry, many devices come into contact with hydrogen. The work focuses on 4 material groups, i.e. steels, aluminium alloys, nickel alloys and titanium alloys, which are used for devices working with hydrogen. The paper presents the basic information on the influence of hydrogen on the structure and properties of these metallic material groups. The main methods of hydrogen charging, the values of hydrogen diffusion, the main models of hydrogen-induced material degradation and their assumptions are presented. The influence of the method and time of hydrogen saturation, as well as the effect of structure, on the concentration/content of hydrogen in the material, as well as on properties, i.e. hardness, tensile strength, and fatigue strength, is shown.
Advances in Thermostable Enzymes for Industrial Applications
Authors: Hussain Zahid
Published: December 2024

Thermostable enzymes have become transformative tools in industrial biotechnology, providing robust catalytic performance in extreme conditions such as high temperatures, varying pH levels, and the presence of organic solvents. Their resilience enables their application across a wide range of industries, including biofuel production, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and environmental sustainability. Recent innovations in metagenomics, protein engineering, and computational biology have significantly enhanced the discovery, development, and optimization of thermostable enzymes, paving the way for cost-effective and sustainable industrial processes. For instance, the application of metagenomics has enabled the identification of novel thermostable enzymes from extreme environments (Haki & Rakshit, 2003). This white paper highlights key advancements, current challenges, and future opportunities in the field, offering insights for researchers and industrial stakeholders alike.
Green Tea with Rhubarb Root Maintains the Gut Microbiome and Causes a Reduction in Plasma Lipids in a Healthy Human Cohort
Authors: Lloyd Amanda J. , Martinez-Martin Pilar , Warren-walker Alina R , Hitchings Matthew D , Moron-Garcia Odin , Watson Alison , Villarreal-Ramos Bernardo , Lyons Laura , Wilson Thomas P , Allison Gordon , Beckmann Manfred
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of mortality and morbidity. The widespread use of herbs and medicinal plants in traditional medicine has garnered increasing recognition as a valuable resource for increasing wellness and reducing the onset of disease. Several epidemiologic and clinical studies have shown that altering blood lipid profiles and maintaining gut homeostasis may protect against cardiovascular diseases. Methods: A randomized, active-controlled parallel human clinical trial (n = 52) with three herbal tea infusions (green (Camellia sinensis) tea with rhubarb root, green tea with senna, and active control green tea) daily for 21 days in a free-living healthy adult cohort was conducted, to assess the potential for health benefits in terms of plasma lipids and gut health. Paired plasma samples were analyzed using Afinion lipid panels (total cholesterol, LDL (Low- Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol, HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol, triglycerides, and non-HDL cholesterol) and paired stools were analysed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing was used to determine bacterial diversity within the gut microbiome. Results: participants who provided fasted bloods before and after the in-tervention (n=47) the consumption of herbal rhubarb root tea and green tea significantly lowered total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and non-HDL cholesterol (p < 0.05) in plasma after 21 days of daily consumption when compared with concentrations before the intervention. No significant change was observed in senna tea group. Participants who provided stool samples, across the different experimental groups (n=48), no significant differences in overall microbial composition between pre- and post-intervention was observed, even at the genus level. This suggests that, while specific bacterial genera correlate with LDL-cholesterol changes, the broader microbial commu-nity structure remains stable across the intervention period, unaffected by these other confounding factors. Diet and BMI was maintained in each of the three groups. Conclusions: it was found that drinking a cup of rhubarb root herbal or green tea infusion for 21 days produced beneficial effects on lipid profiles and maintained gut eubiosis without observable adverse effects in a healthy human cohort. More studies are needed to fully understand the effects of rhubarb root and green tea in fatty acid metabolism and gut microbial composition.
A Comparative Theoretical Macroeconomic Analysis of the United States and China through the Lens of the Solow Growth Model: Population Dynamics, State Strategies, and Technological Progress
Authors: Montgomery Richard Murdoch
Published: December 2024

This paper explores the macroeconomic trajectories of the United States and China using the Solow growth model, focusing on capital accumulation, labour force dynamics, and technological progress. The analysis highlights the distinct challenges and opportunities arising from population characteristics, including ageing populations and demographic transitions, and evaluates state dynamics and institutional frameworks influencing economic strategies. The findings reveal that while the United States benefits from technological innovation and a balanced demographic structure, it faces rising dependency ratios. Conversely, China confronts significant demographic and structural headwinds but leverages state-driven initiatives and rapid urbanisation. Policy recommendations address demographic adjustments, productivity enhancement, and structural reforms to sustain long-term growth.
Blood-Brain Barrier in Schizophrenia: Current Insights and Future Perspectives
Authors: Wang Jinhong , Zhang Fangsong , Wang Xuexue , Zhang jianye , Han Mengyang , Fei Yi
Published: December 2024

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays a crucial role in regulating the transport of solutes and essential nutrients into the brain. It maintains the homeostasis of the brain microenvironment, regulates nutrient transport, and prevents pathogens and neurotoxic substances from entering brain tissue. In recent years, increasing research has shown that BBB dysfunction plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Additionally, various MRI-based neuroimaging techniques have gradually been applied to study BBB permeability in schizophrenia. They may offer boundless potential for the in vivo assessment of brain structure and neurovascular function status, along with the evaluation of treatment efficacy in future schizophrenia patients. This article aims to synthesize evidence from postmortem, serum and cerebrospinal fluid biomarker, and neuroimaging studies, highlighting the alterations in BBB permeability among schizophrenia patients and their potential links to neuroinflammation and other factors. Moreover, it intends to deepen the understanding of schizophrenia pathophysiology, explore the BBB as a therapeutic target, and provide a basis for new antipsychotic drug development.
Oscillatory Regulation of Oxidative Metabolism Genes in Human Lung Fibroblasts by Bare and Citrate-Coated Nanoceria
Authors: Proskurnina Elena , Sozarukova Madina , Ershova Elizaveta , Savinova Ekaterina , Kameneva Larisa , Veiko Natalia , Salimova Tatiana , Ivanov Vladimir , Kostyuk Svetlana
Published: December 2024

The biomedical application of nanomaterials is attracting a great interest due to their special characteristics. Pronounced redox activity of nanoceria allows to use it as a regulator of redox-dependent signaling pathways. Here, we evaluated the effects of bare and citrate-coated CeO2 on the expression of genes of oxidative metabolism in human embryonic lung fibroblasts. Cell viability, intracellular reactive oxygen species, expression of NOX4, NRF2, and NF-κB, oxidative DNA damage/repair, apoptosis, cell proliferation, and autophagy were studied. MTT-test, fluorescence microscopy, real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and flow cytometry were used. In concentrations of 1.5 μM, bare and citrate-coated nanoceria penetrates the cells within 1–3 hours resulting in a decrease in intracellular ROS level, oscillatory activation of the NOX4, NRF2, NF-κB, increase in oxidative DNA damage and double-strand breaks, activation of repair systems, inhibition of apoptosis and autophagy, and activation of proliferation. The two-wave “oscillatory” dynamics of oxidative proteins and markers may be associated with changes in the oxidation state of nanoceria in cells. Both are and citrate-coated nanoceria provide a regenerative effect on human embryonic lung fibroblasts, but the effect of citrate-coated nanoparticles was more moderate.
DNA Replication in Time and Space—The Archaeal Dimension
Authors: Serdyuk Anastasia , Allers Thorsten
Published: December 2024

The ability of a molecule to self-replicate is the driving force behind the evolution of cellular life, and in the transition from RNA to DNA as genetic material. Thus the physicochemical properties of genome replication, such as the requirement for a terminal hydroxyl group for de novo DNA synthesis, are conserved in all three domains of life: Eukaryotes, Bacteria, and Archaea. Canonical DNA replication is initiated from specific chromosomal sequences termed origins. Early bacterial models of DNA replication proposed origins as regulatory points for spatiotemporal control, with replication factors acting on a single origin on the chromosome. In Eukaryotes and Archaea, however, replication initiation usually involves multiple origins, with complex spatio-temporal regulation in the former. An alternative replication initiation mechanism, recombination-dependent replication, is observed in every domain (and viruses); DNA synthesis is initiated instead from the 3’ end of a recombination intermediate. In the domain Archaea, species including Haloferax volcanii are not only capable of initiating DNA replication without origins, but grow faster without them. This raises questions on the necessity and nature of origins. Why have Archaea retained such alternative DNA replication initiation mechanisms? Might recombination-dependent replication be the ancestral mode of DNA synthesis that was used during evolution from the primordial RNA world? This review provides an historical overview of major advancements in the study of DNA replication, followed by a comparative analysis of replication initiation systems in the three domains of life. Our current knowledge of origin-dependent and recombination-dependent DNA replication in Archaea is summarised.
Evaluating the Performance of Peak Calling Algorithms Available for Intracellular G-Quadruplex Sequencing
Authors: Wang Yuqi , Xiao Ke , Tao Tiantong , Zhang Rongxin , Shu Huiling , Sun Xiao
Published: December 2024

DNA G-quadruplexes (G4) are non-canonical DNA structures that play key roles in various biological processes. Antibody-dependent sequencing is an important tool for identifying intracellularly formed DNA G4s, and peak calling is a crucial step in processing the sequencing data. As the applicability of existing peak calling algorithms to intracellular G4 data has not been previously assessed, we systematically compared and evaluated these algorithms to identify those best suited for G4 detection. We selected seven representative candidates from 43 published peak calling algorithms for detailed evaluation. With precision and recall based on benchmark datasets, as well as consistency with known G4 information and epigenetic signals, we identified MACS2, PeakRanger, and GoPeaks as the most effective algorithms for analyzing intracellular G4 sequencing data, and attributed their superior performance partially to the distribution model of sequencing reads/fragments used in the hypothesis testing step of the peak calling procedures. These findings provide guidance and rationale for selecting peak callers appropriate for intracellular G4 data.
The Algorithm to Design Circles in Bubble Chart
Authors: Chiang Ching-Shoei , Li Hung-Chieh
Published: December 2024

We investigate the circle design in bubble chart in this paper. The bubble chart we design has the properties that a unit circle is at the center, and surround by a series of circle rings one layer by one layer. For extending next layer of circles, it always has a silhouette circle tangent to all circles in the newest layer. The extension of circle is partition into two class, one is that each layer has the same number of circles with the same radii, the other is that new layer has multiple numbers of circles, compare with the previous layer of circles. We solve the problem geometrically and/or algebraically if the problem is simple, and give heuristic algorithm to solve more complex problem.
COVID-19 and HIV: Clinical Outcomes and Inflammatory Markers in a Cohort from a Reference Hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: de Sá Nathalia Beatriz Ramos , Macieira Karina Venegas , Coelho Mariana Rosa Inácio , Goulart Milena Neira , Ribeiro-Alves Marcelo , Rosadas Leonardo A. S. , Geraldo Kim Mattos , Ribeiro Maria Pia Diniz , Cardoso Sandra Wagner , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Veloso Valdilea G. , Cazote Andressa S , de Almeida Dalziza Victalina , Giacoia-Gripp Carmen Beatriz Wagner , Côrtes Fernanda Heloise , Morgado Mariza G
Published: December 2024

Background: Severe COVID-19 presents a variety of clinical manifestations associated with inflammatory profiles. People living with HIV (PLWH) could face a higher risk of hospitalization and mortality from COVID-19, depending on their immunosuppression levels. This study describes inflammatory markers in COVID-19 clinical outcomes with and without HIV.
Methods: We analyzed 112 inpatients of the Hospital Center for COVID-19 (INI/FIOCRUZ), including 22 cases of COVID-19 in PLWH (COVID/PLWH group). Plasma samples were tested for a panel of 15 cytokines by Luminex. Sociodemographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected from patients’ clinical records.
Results: COVID-19 individuals were stratified according to the WHO clinical severity profiles at hospitalization. Significant differences in clinical scores, symptoms (coughs), and the occurrence of HIV infection were found among the groups. Clinical blood parameters and plasma cytokines were analyzed among COVID-19 groups with distinct severity profiles. Critical COVID-19 cases showed higher levels of inflammatory markers (Bilirubin, D-dimer, PCR, and urea, as well as IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, INF-α, IL-1β, IL-17A, IL-23, IL-6) than moderate and severe groups. The COVID/PLWH group had lower CD4 counts (64 cells/mm3) and cytokine levels than other COVID-19 patients.
Conclusion: Overall, critically ill COVID-19 patients exhibited heightened inflammatory responses, while COVID/PLWH demonstrated unique immunological characteristics without increased mortality risk.
Description of the Lubricant Behavior Based on the Theory of Viscoelastoplasticity
Authors: Nosov Yuriy O. , Kamenskikh Anna A. , Bogdanova Anastasia P.
Published: December 2024

The paper reviews the methodology of experimental and numerical study of greases. Anand model is taken for numerical description of its viscoelastoplastic behavior. The algorithm of material description is improved taking into account the dependence of model parameters on temperature (from -40 to +80 degrees Celsius). Two greases are considered: CIATIM-221; CIATIM-221F (superfine particles of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) are introduced into the base) - manufacturer LLC "Center-Oil", Polevskoy city, Russia. The article found that the studied samples behave as a solid over the entire temperature range (from -40 to +80 degrees Celsius). The study of describing the lubricant as a Maxwell solid has been done previously. However, it was found that more sophisticated mathematical models are needed to qualitatively describe the behavior of grease over the entire range of operating conditions. The paper introduces an automated procedure for the numerical search for the optimal parameters of the extended Anand model for describing the thermophysical properties of greases. The procedure allows finding the model parameters in a wide range of temperatures (from -40 to +80 degrees Celsius) and obtaining the numerical distribution with an error of less than 5 %.
The Black Hole Mass-Gap and its Relation to Bekenstein-Hawking Entropy Leads to Potential Quantization of Black Holes and a Minimum Gravitational Acceleration in the Universe
Authors: Haug Espen
Published: December 2024

We demonstrate that black holes likely have an energy or mass gap, E_g/c^2=m_g, that is of the order m_g\approx m_p^2/M_{BH}. Interestingly, the mass of the black hole divided by the mass gap seems closely related to the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy and thereby potentially leads to a quantization of black holes. Even if mathematically trivial, this could be a potentially important step toward better understanding the potential to quantize black holes. Our focus is mainly on Schwarzschild black holes, but we also briefly discuss Reissner-Nordström black holes.
Special Issue on Robotics and Mechatronics Technology for Snake-Like and Hyper-Redundant Robots
Authors: Tanaka Motoyasu , Kamegawa Tetsushi , Ariizumi Ryo
Published: December 2024

Snake-like robots have elongated, snake-like bodies. Because of their long and thin shapes, snake-like robots are expected to play different roles than those occupied by other types of robots. For example, snake-like robots can be used to inspect pipes or search for victims at disaster sites. Many studies have focused on the biomimetics, mechanisms, modeling, analysis, control, navigation, sensing, and localization of snake-like robots, and many efforts have been aimed at their industrialization.

This special issue includes a wide range of research and development results from the fields of robotics and mechatronics for snake-like robots and similar elongated, hyper-redundant robots, such as hyper-redundant manipulators, salamander robots, and other articulated mobile robots.
Evaluation of the Travel Efficiency of a Transformable Snake-Like Robot Utilizing Infinite Rotation Joint
Authors: Yamano Akio , Kimoto Tsuyoshi
Published: December 2024

Snake-like robots can achieve flexible movement by simultaneously actuating multiple joints; however, the challenge of high power consumption by driving numerous servomotors under high-load conditions remains. To address this issue, we propose a mechanism that transforms the rear link of a snake-like robot into a wheel-like configuration, enabling a three-wheeled vehicle mode that provides the same traveling speed and efficiency as a wheeled mobile robots on flat surfaces. First, we detail the method for driving the servomotor to achieve undulating locomotion in the snake-like robot with nonuniform link lengths. Next, we propose a method for smoothly switching between the complex-shaped wheel mode and undulating locomotion. Finally, we conduct experiments to assess the travel efficiency in both the undulating mode and the proposed wheel mode across various road surface conditions. Our results demonstrate that the wheel mode achieves higher travel efficiency than the undulating mode on the smooth floors and asphalt.
Tension-Adaptive Body Shape Control of a Snake Robot for Rope Climbing by Current Feedback
Authors: Kobayashi Ryosuke , Chin Ching Wen , Tanaka Motoyasu
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we propose a control method for the snake robot to adapt its body shape to the rope tension while climbing a rope, which is a flexible environment, in response to the joints’ current. The frictional force and the robot joint load vary depending on the amount of rope tension. A large tension may overload the robot joints, but a small tension may cause the robot slip and fall. Therefore, it is important for the robot to be able to change its body shape and adapt appropriately to the tension in rope climbing. In order to achieve this, we focused on the fact that joint loads and motor current values are related and devised a control system to change the robot’s body shape according to the motor current values. The concept is to change the robot’s body shape in order to obtain the maximum twisting angle at a constant current value. It should be noted that this control cannot guarantee that the robot will not slip and fall, but it can avoid excessive joint loading. The efficacy of this control for tension adaptation was validated through experiment.
Development of Snake-Like Robot for Cable-Laying —Motion Design for Locomotion over Cable Racks and Ceiling Spaces
Authors: Sadasue Yuki , Nagae Hayato , Takarabe Jyunta , Iwase Masami
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study is to develop a snake-like robot for cable laying. Cable laying is one of the tasks that inevitably occur in construction work. Cable laying is generally performed manually by workers in high and narrow spaces, such as cable racks installed in ceilings and ceiling spaces. Therefore, it involves significant risks, such as falls. To ensure worker safety and enable anyone to perform the task, automation and labor-saving through robots are anticipated. Therefore, this study aims to develop a snake-like robot that pulls a lead cable through traveling wave inspired by workers’ cable-laying actions. We verify whether this traveling wave can achieve propulsion in different environments, such as flat surfaces, cable racks, and ceiling spaces, through simulations and real-world experiments. The simulation and experiment results confirm that the traveling wave is effective for propulsion in cable racks and ceiling spaces. Based on these results, it was required to keep the head horizontal to the ground even during traveling wave to allow environmental inspection using a camera mounted on the snake-like robot’s head. Therefore, we established a method to achieve propulsion with traveling wave while maintaining the head’s horizontal position using Fourier series expansion. By implementing this, we achieved propulsion with reduced head oscillation.
Hybrid RobOstrich Manipulator with Intrinsic and Extrinsic Actuations
Authors: Manome Takeru , Niiyama Ryuma
Published: December 2024

Ostrich neck-inspired manipulators have attracted attention in the field of bio-inspired robotics. They achieve unique movements that are difficult for conventional robots, owing to their flexibility. However, it is difficult to mimic the length, mass, and actuation redundancy of ostrich necks. This is because the longer and heavier the robotic arm, the greater is the load on the joints. Furthermore, if a robotic arm exhibits actuation redundancy, its structure and control become more complex. In this study, we developed a hybrid RobOstrich manipulator with both intrinsic and extrinsic actuations. This is the third-generation of the RobOstrich series. The manipulator consists of a servomotor attached to each joint that performs intrinsic actuation and two servomotors on the base that perform extrinsic actuation through wires. We conducted an experiment to reproduce the rolling pattern, which is a unique movement of the ostrich neck, to verify the effect of hybrid actuation. The results indicated that the joint angle error and required torque were reduced by applying hybrid actuation.
STRUCTURAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF FEIJOA MOUSSE
Authors: Kalugina Iryna , Poplavska Svitlana
Published: December 2024

The study of the structural and mechanical properties of dessert masses for the scientific substantiation of the technology of mousse with feijoa dietary supplement for the restaurant establishments is conducted. The work shows the expediency of using a new dietary supplement – feijoa puree with sugar to increase the nutritional value of whipped desserts, such as mousse, and improve their technological properties. A new dietary supplement has been developed – feijoa puree with sugar, which is characterized by a high content of valuable nutrients, including iodine (60.1 μg/100 g), which is 40 % of the recommended daily allowance. The rheological properties of feijoa dessert masses were studied. It was established that the studied samples of feijoa mousse are characterized by a fairly high degree of structuring, and, therefore, the highest viscosity in the region of low shear stress from 1.8 to 5.4 s-1. At a shear rate of 9 s-1 and higher, the spatial framework of the studied systems is destroyed. It was determined that with the addition of feijoa to dessert masses, their effective viscosity and density increase slightly, without reducing the indicators of foaming ability. Based on the analysis of the microstructure of the samples, it was confirmed that the introduction of 20 % feijoa additive into the mousse helps to increase the dispersion of the dessert mass, the formation of evenly distributed and homogeneous air bubbles (40...60 microns), and therefore to improve the consistency of the finished product. It was established that the optimal content of dietary supplement - feijoa puree with sugar in the mousse recipe is 20 % of the weight of the finished product. Rational technological parameters for the preparation of feijoa mousse at the whipping stage are defined, namely: whipping duration (6)‧60 s, gradient of shear rate from 3 to 5.4 s-1 at temperatures of 35...40 °C. With these modes of technological processing and the content of feijoa dietary supplement, a mousse with the highest foaming capacity (253 %), the most whipped, lush and finely dispersed structure was obtained.