bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Activity in Forest and Psychological Health Benefits: A Field Experiment with Young Polish Adults
Authors: Janeczko Emilia , Górski Jarosław , Woźnicka Małgorzata , Czyżyk Krzysztof , Kędziora Wojciech , Korcz Natalia
Published: September 2023

Recently, many studies have been conducted on the impact of various elements of the natural environment, including forests, on human physical and mental health. However, little is known about the level of health benefits resulting from contact with forests depending on the type of physical activity undertaken. Therefore, in order to measure the impact of physical activity on the level of mental relaxation, a randomized experiment was conducted, which took into account three types of human physical activity: walking, cycling, and passive (without movement) observation of the forest. The study was carried out in the same forest and at the same time. Forty young people studying in Warsaw took part in the study. Four psychological questionnaires were used in the project before and after the experiment (Profile of Mood States, Schedule of Positive and Negative Affects, Recovery Scale, Subjective Vitality Scale). A pre-test was also performed in a university classroom. Research has shown that staying in the forest, regardless of the type of physical activity, brings positive health benefits in the form of an increase in positive feelings while reducing negative feelings. The results indicate that people who walk have the broadest range of benefits (cumulative benefits), in the form of less tension, reduced anger, fatigue, depression, increased concentration and greater vigor. Cyclists experienced significant benefits only in the form of reduced depression and greater vigor. The group passively observing the forest achieved statistically significant benefits only in terms of reducing fatigue and improving concentration. However, overall, the between-group results showed no statistically significant differences between the restorative effects of walking, cycling, and viewing the forest landscape. Each analyzed form of contact with the forest has a regenerating/regenerating effect (ROS scale) and contributes to the increase in vitality (SVS scale).
Processing and Properties of Wood-Plastic Composite Containing Alkali-Treated Birch Wood Shavings and Bioadditive Obtained by Biorefinery of Birch Bark
Authors: Shulga Galia , Rizhikovs Janis , Neiberte Brigita , Verovkins Anrijs , Vitolina Sanita , Betkers Talrits , Makars Raimonds
Published: September 2023

In the last two decades, there has been increased interest in research focused on developing innovative polymer composite materials for food packaging, obtained by compounding polymers with organic fillers, intended for the manufacture of food storage containers. Woodplastic composites (WPCs), due to high content of lignocellulosic filler, are consideredbiocomposites and can be used for the fabrication of such types of containers. Their formulations include, along with the matrix and the filler, functional additives. One of the most important considerations while developing a food packaging material is to choose eco-friendly additives. The suberinic acids (SAs), extracted from birch outer bark by hydrolysis in KOH water solution, were examined as lubricants in the formulation of recycled polypropylene/polylactic acid (rPP/PLA) composite filled with the alkali-treated milled birch shaving microparticles and proceeded by extrusion and injection molding. The incorporation of Sas in a birch wood-rPP/PLA composite was performed by treaing the wood microparticles with the SAs water suspension at the defined concentration. Their presence at the optimal content in the composite improved its processing by reducing the extruder rotor torque and injection pressure, which increased the mechanical properties and decreased the wettability of the composite.
Genome-Wide Association Mapping of Processing Quality Traits in Common Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Jin Hui , Tian Yuanyuan , Zhang Yan , Zhang Rui , Zhao Haibin , Yang Xue , Song Xizhang , Dimitrov Yordan , Wu Yu-e , Gao Qiang , Liu Jindong , Zhang Jumei , He Zhonghu
Published: September 2023

Processing quality is an important economic wheat trait. The marker-assisted selection (MAS) method plays a vital role in accelerating genetic improvement of processing quality. In the present study, processing quality in a panel of 165 cultivars grown in four environments was evaluated by mixograph. An association mapping analysis using 90 K and 660 K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays identified 24 loci in chromosomes 1A, 1B (4), 1D, 2A, 2B (2), 3A, 3B, 3D (2), 4A (3), 4B, 5D (2), 6A, 7B (2) and 7D (2), explaining 10.2–42.5% of the phenotypic variances. Totally, 15 loci were stably detected in two or more environments. Nine loci coincided with known genes or QTL, whereas the other fifteen were novel loci. Seven candidate genes encoded 3-ketoacyl-CoA synthase, lipoxygenase, pyridoxal phosphate-dependent decarboxylase, sucrose synthase 3 and a plant lipid transfer protein/Par allergen. SNPs significantly associated with processing quality and accessions with more favorable alleles can be used for marker-assisted selection.
Effects of Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) Boosting and Household Factors on Latrine Ownership in Siaya County, Kenya
Authors: Wasonga Job , Miyamichi Kazuchiyo , Hitachi Mami , Ozaki Rie , Karama Mohamed , Hirayama Kenji , Kaneko Satoshi
Published: September 2023

Community-led total sanitation (CLTS) is a widely used approach for enhancing sanitation practices. However, the impact of boosted CLTS on household latrine ownership has not been adequately evaluated. This study aims to investigate the factors associated with latrine possession among households, with a specific focus on single and CLTS-boosting implementation. A community-based repeated cross-sectional study was conducted in Siaya County, Kenya, involving 512 households at the baseline and 423 households at the follow-up. Data were analyzed using the mixed-effects logistic regression model. At the baseline, latrine possession was significantly associated with CLTS implementation (adjusted OR [aOR]: 3.01; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41–6.44), literacy among households (aOR: 1.83; 95% CI: 1.12–2.98) and higher socioeconomic status (SES) (second level: aOR: 2.48; 95% CI:1.41–4.36, third level: aOR: 3.11; 95% CI: 1.76–5.50, fourth level: aOR: 10.20; 95% CI: 5.07–20.54). At follow-up, CLTS boosting (aOR: 7.92; 95% CI: 1.77–35.45) and a higher SES were associated with increased latrine ownership (second level: aOR: 2.04; 95% CI: 0.97–4.26, third level: aOR: 7.73; 95% CI: 2.98–20.03, fourth level: aOR: 9.93; 95% CI: 3.14–28.35). These findings highlight the significant role played by both single and CLST boosting in promoting universal latrine ownership and empowering vulnerable households to understand the importance of sanitation and open defecation-free practices.
A Comprehensive Evaluation of Machine Learning and Classical Approaches for Spaceborne Active-Passive Fusion Bathymetry of Coral Reefs
Authors: Cheng Jian , Cheng Liang , Chu Sensen , Li Jizhe , Hu Qixin , Ye Li , Wang Zhiyong , Chen Hui
Published: September 2023

Satellite-derived bathymetry (SDB) techniques are increasingly valuable for deriving high-quality bathymetric maps of coral reefs. Investigating the performance of the related SDB algorithms in purely spaceborne active–passive fusion bathymetry contributes to formulating reliable bathymetric strategies, particularly for areas such as the Spratly Islands, where in situ observations are exceptionally scarce. In this study, we took Anda Reef as a case study and evaluated the performance of eight common SDB approaches by integrating Sentinel-2 images with Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2). The bathymetric maps were generated using two classical and six machine-learning algorithms, which were then validated with measured sonar data. The results illustrated that all models accurately estimated the depth of coral reefs in the 0–20 m range. The classical algorithms (Lyzenga and Stumpf) exhibited a mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of less than 0.990 m, 1.386 m, and 11.173%, respectively. The machine learning algorithms generally outperformed the classical algorithms in accuracy and bathymetric detail, with a coefficient of determination (R2) ranging from 0.94 to 0.96 and an RMSE ranging from 1.034 m to 1.202 m. The multilayer perceptron (MLP) achieved the highest accuracy and consistency with an RMSE of as low as 1.034 m, followed by the k-nearest neighbor (KNN) (1.070 m). Our results provide a practical reference for selecting SDB algorithms to accurately obtain shallow water bathymetry in subsequent studies.
Retrospective Analysis of Bone Substitute Material for Traumatic Long Bone Fractures: Sex-Specific Outcomes
Authors: Pawelke Jonas , Vinayahalingam Vithusha , Heiss Christian , Khassawna Thaqif El , Knapp Gero
Published: September 2023

Male patients often experience increased bone and muscle loss after traumatic fractures. This study aims to compare the treatment outcomes of male and female patients with large bone defects. A total of 345 trauma patients underwent surgery, with participants divided into two groups: one receiving bone substitute material (BSM) for augmented defects (n = 192) and the other without augmentation (empty defects = ED, n = 153). Outcome parameters were assessed among female (n = 184) and male (n = 161) patients. Descriptive statistics revealed no significant differences between male and female patients. Approximately one-half of the fractures resulted from high-energy trauma (n = 187). The BSM group experienced fewer complications (p = 0.004), including pseudarthrosis (BSM: n = 1, ED: n = 7; p = 0.02). Among female patients over 65, the incidence of pseudarthrosis was lower in the BSM group (p = 0.01), while younger females showed no significant differences (p = 0.4). Radiologically, we observed premature bone healing with subsequent harmonization. Post hoc power analysis demonstrated a power of 0.99. Augmenting bone defects, especially with bone substitute material, may reduce complications, including pseudarthrosis, in female patients. Additionally, this material accelerates bone healing. Further prospective studies are necessary for confirmation.
Exploring Three Avenues: Chemo- and Regioselective Transformations of 1,2,4-Triketone Analogs into Pyrazoles and Pyridazinones
Authors: Edilova Yulia O. , Osipova Ekaterina A. , Slepukhin Pavel A. , Saloutin Victor I. , Bazhin Denis N.
Published: September 2023

A convenient approach to substituted pyrazoles and pyridazinones based on 1,2,4-triketones is presented. Chemo- and regiocontrol in condensations of t-Bu, Ph-, 2-thienyl-, and CO2Et-substituted 1,2,4-triketone analogs with hydrazines are described. The direction of preferential nucleophilic attack was shown to be switched depending on the substituent nature in triketone as well as the reaction conditions. The acid and temperature effects on the selectivity of condensations were revealed. Regiochemistry of heterocyclic core formation was confirmed by NMR and XRD studies. The facile construction of heterocyclic motifs bearing acetyl and (or) carbethoxy groups suggests them as promising mono- or bifunctional building blocks for subsequent transformations.
Systematic Identification and Functional Analysis of the Hypericum perforatum L. bZIP Gene Family Indicating That Overexpressed HpbZIP69 Enhances Drought Resistance
Authors: Xiao Ruyi , Sun Yan , Yang Shu , Yang Yixiao , Wang Donghao , Wang Zhezhi , Zhou Wen
Published: September 2023

Basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factors play significant roles in plants’ growth and development processes, as well as in response to biological and abiotic stresses. Hypericum perforatum is one of the world’s top three best-selling herbal medicines, mainly used to treat depression. However, there has been no systematic identification or functional analysis of the bZIP gene family in H. perforatum. In this study, 79 HpbZIP genes were identified. Based on phylogenetic analysis, the HpbZIP gene family was divided into ten groups, designated A–I and S. The physicochemical properties, gene structures, protein conserved motifs, and Gene Ontology enrichments of all HpbZIPs were systematically analyzed. The expression patterns of all genes in different tissues of H. perforatum (i.e., root, stem, leaf, and flower) were analyzed by qRT-PCR, revealing the different expression patterns of HpbZIP under abiotic stresses. The HpbZIP69 protein is localized in the nucleus. According to the results of the yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) assays, HpbZIP69 can bind to the HpASMT2 (N-acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase) gene promoter (G-box cis-element) to activate its activity. Overexpressing HpbZIP69 in Arabidopsis wild-type lines enhanced their tolerance to drought. The MDA and H2O2 contents were significantly decreased, and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was considerably increased under the drought stress. These results may aid in additional functional studies of HpbZIP transcription factors, and in cultivating drought-resistant medicinal plants.
Calcium Channels and Calcium-Binding Proteins
Authors: Mochida Sumiko
Published: September 2023

Signals of nerve impulses are transmitted to excitatory cells to induce the action of organs via the activation of Ca2+ entry through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCC), which are classified based on their activation threshold into high- and low-voltage activated channels, expressed specifically for each organ [...]
Arbuscular-Mycorrhizal Symbiosis in Medicago Regulated by the Transcription Factor MtbHLHm1;1 and the Ammonium Facilitator Protein MtAMF1;3
Authors: Ovchinnikova Evgenia , Chiasson David , Wen Zhengyu , Wu Yue , Tahaei Hero , Smith Penelope M. C. , Perrine-Walker Francine , Kaiser Brent N.
Published: September 2023

Root systems of most land plants are colonised by arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi. The symbiosis supports nutrient acquisition strategies predominantly associated with plant access to inorganic phosphate. The nutrient acquisition is enhanced through an extensive network of external fungal hyphae that extends out into the soil, together with the development of fungal structures forming specialised interfaces with root cortical cells. Orthologs of the bHLHm1;1 transcription factor, previously described in soybean nodules (GmbHLHm1) and linked to the ammonium facilitator protein GmAMF1;3, have been identified in Medicago (Medicago truncatula) roots colonised by AM fungi. Expression studies indicate that transcripts of both genes are also present in arbuscular containing root cortical cells and that the MtbHLHm1;1 shows affinity to the promoter of MtAMF1;3. Both genes are induced by AM colonisation. Loss of Mtbhlhm1;1 expression disrupts AM arbuscule abundance and the expression of the ammonium transporter MtAMF1;3. Disruption of Mtamf1;3 expression reduces both AM colonisation and arbuscule development. The respective activities of MtbHLHm1;1 and MtAMF1;3 highlight the conservation of putative ammonium regulators supporting both the rhizobial and AM fungal symbiosis in legumes.
Exploring the State of Machine Learning and Deep Learning in Medicine: A Survey of the Italian Research Community
Authors: Bottrighi Alessio , Pennisi Marzio
Published: September 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly important, especially in the medical field. While AI has been used in medicine for some time, its growth in the last decade is remarkable. Specifically, machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) techniques in medicine have been increasingly adopted due to the growing abundance of health-related data, the improved suitability of such techniques for managing large datasets, and more computational power. ML and DL methodologies are fostering the development of new “intelligent” tools and expert systems to process data, to automatize human–machine interactions, and to deliver advanced predictive systems that are changing every aspect of the scientific research, industry, and society. The Italian scientific community was instrumental in advancing this research area. This article aims to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the ML and DL methodologies and applications used in medicine by the Italian research community in the last five years. To this end, we selected all the papers published in the last five years with at least one of the authors affiliated to an Italian institution that in the title, in the abstract, or in the keywords present the terms “machine learning” or “deep learning” and reference a medical area. We focused our research on journal papers under the hypothesis that Italian researchers prefer to present novel but well-established research in scientific journals. We then analyzed the selected papers considering different dimensions, including the medical topic, the type of data, the pre-processing methods, the learning methods, and the evaluation methods. As a final outcome, a comprehensive overview of the Italian research landscape is given, highlighting how the community has increasingly worked on a very heterogeneous range of medical problems.
Highlighting Fibroblasts Activation in Fibrosis: The State-of-The-Art Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor PET Imaging in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Cui Yan , Wang Yuxiang , Wang Shu , Du Bulin , Li Xuena , Li Yaming
Published: September 2023

Fibrosis is a common healing process that occurs during stress and injury in cardiovascular diseases. The evolution of fibrosis is associated with cardiovascular disease states and causes adverse effects. Fibroblast activation is responsible for the formation and progression of fibrosis. The incipient detection of activated fibroblasts is important for patient management and prognosis. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP), a membrane-bound serine protease, is almost specifically expressed in activated fibroblasts. The development of targeted FAP-inhibitor (FAPI) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging enabled the visualisation of FAP, that is, incipient fibrosis. Recently, research on FAPI PET imaging in cardiovascular diseases increased and is highly sought. Hence, we comprehensively reviewed the application of FAPI PET imaging in cardiovascular diseases based on the state-of-the-art published research. These studies provided some insights into the value of FAPI PET imaging in the early detection of cardiovascular fibrosis, risk stratification, response evaluation, and prediction of the evolution of left ventricular function. Future studies should be conducted with larger populations and multicentre patterns, especially for response evaluation and outcome prediction.
Smartphone-Based LiDAR Application for Easy and Accurate Wound Size Measurement
Authors: Song Bokeun , Kim Jeonghee , Kwon Hyeokjae , Kim Sunje , Oh Sang-Ha , Ha Yooseok , Song Seung-Han
Published: September 2023

The accurate assessment of wound size is a critical step in advanced wound care management. This study aims to introduce and validate a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technique for measuring wound size. Twenty-eight wounds treated from December 2022 to April 2023 at the Chungnam National University Hospital were analyzed. All the wounds were measured using three techniques: conventional ruler methods, the LiDAR technique, and ImageJ analysis. Correlation analysis, linear regression, and Bland–Altman plot analysis were performed to validate the accuracy of the novel method. The measurement results (mean ± standard deviation) obtained using the ruler method, LiDAR technique, and ImageJ analysis were 112.99 ± 110.07 cm2, 73.59 ± 72.97 cm2, and 74.29 ± 72.15 cm2, respectively. The Pearson correlation coefficient was higher for the LiDAR application (0.995) than for the conventional ruler methods (mean difference, −5.0000 cm2), as was the degree of agreement (mean difference, 38.6933 cm2). Wound size measurement using LiDAR is a simple and reliable method that will enable practitioners to conveniently assess wounds with a flattened and irregular shape with higher accuracy. However, non-flattened wounds cannot be assessed owing to the technical limitations of LiDAR.
Valproic Acid-Associated Acute Pancreatitis: Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Bischof Monica C. M. , Stadelmann Mariana I. E. , Janett Simone , Bianchetti Mario G. , Camozzi Pietro , Goeggel Simonetti Barbara , Lava Sebastiano A. G. , Milani Gregorio P.
Published: September 2023

Long-term medication with valproic acid has been associated with acute pancreatitis. The purpose of this report is to gain insight into the features of this pancreatitis. A preregistered literature search (CRD42023438294) was performed on the National Library of Medicine, Excerpta Medica, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Patients with alcohol abuse disorder, gallstone disease, hypertriglyceridemia or hypercalcemia, patients with acute valproic acid intoxication, and patients with a pre-existing pancreatitis were excluded. For the final analysis, we retained 73 reports published between 1979 and 2023, which described 125 subjects (83 children and 42 adults predominantly affected by an epilepsy) with an acute pancreatitis related to valproic acid. The diagnosis was made 11 (3.0–24) months (median and interquartile range) after starting valproic acid. One hundred and five cases (84%) recovered and twenty (16%) died. Sex, age, dosage or circulating level of valproic acid, latency time, prevalence of intellectual disability, and antiepileptic co-medication were similar in cases with and without a lethal outcome. Nineteen subjects were rechallenged with valproic acid after recovery: sixteen (84%) cases developed a further episode of pancreatitis. In conclusion, pancreatitis associated with valproic acid presents at any time during treatment and has a high fatality rate.
Harnessing the Native Extracellular Matrix for Periodontal Regeneration Using a Melt Electrowritten Biphasic Scaffold
Authors: Blaudez Fanny , Ivanovski Saso , Vaquette Cedryck
Published: September 2023

Scaffolds have been used to promote periodontal regeneration by providing control over the spacio-temporal healing of the periodontium (cementum, periodontal ligament (PDL) and alveolar bone). This study proposes to enhance the biofunctionality of a biphasic scaffold for periodontal regeneration by means of cell-laid extracellular matrix (ECM) decoration. To this end, a melt electrowritten scaffold was cultured with human osteoblasts for the deposition of bone-specific ECM. In parallel, periodontal ligament cells were used to form a cell sheet, which was later combined with the bone ECM scaffold to form a biphasic PDL–bone construct. The resulting biphasic construct was decellularised to remove all cellular components while preserving the deposited matrix. Decellularisation efficacy was confirmed in vitro, before the regenerative performance of freshly decellularised constructs was compared to that of 3-months stored freeze-dried scaffolds in a rodent periodontal defect model. Four weeks post-surgery, microCT revealed similar bone formation in all groups. Histology showed higher amounts of newly formed cementum and periodontal attachment in the fresh and freeze-dried ECM functionalised scaffolds, although it did not reach statistical significance. This study demonstrated that the positive effect of ECM decoration was preserved after freeze-drying and storing the construct for 3 months, which has important implications for clinical translation.
A Novel Sensor-Based Application for Home-Based Rehabilitation Can Objectively Measure Postoperative Outcomes following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Mengis Natalie , Schmidt Sebastian , Ellermann Andree , Sobau Christian , Egloff Christian , Kreher Mahli Megan , Ksoll Korbinian , Schmidt-Lucke Caroline , Rippke Jules-Nikolaus
Published: September 2023

In order to successfully implement individualized patient rehabilitation and home-based rehabilitation programs, the rehabilitation process should be objectifiable, monitorable and comprehensible. For this purpose, objective measurements are required in addition to subjective measurement tools. Thus, the aim of this prospective, single-center clinical trial is the clinical validation of an objective, digital medical device (DMD) during the rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with regards to an internationally accepted measurement tool. Sixty-seven patients planned for primary ACLR (70:30% male–female, aged 25 years [21–32], IKDC-SKF 47 [31–60], Tegner Activity Scale 6 [4–7], Lysholm Score 57 [42–72]) were included and received physical therapy and the DMD after surgery. For clinical validation, combined measures of range of motion (ROM), coordination, strength and agility were assessed using the DMD in addition to patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) at three and six months after ACLR. Significant correlations were detected for ROM (rs = 0.36–0.46, p < 0.025) and strength/agility via the single-leg vertical jump (rs = 0.43, p = 0.011) and side hop test (rs = 0.37, p = 0.042), as well as for coordination via the Y-Balance test (rs = 0.58, p ≤ 0.0001) regarding the IKDC-SKF at three months. Additionally, DMD test results for coordination, strength and agility (Y-Balance test (rs = 0.50, p = 0.008), side hop test (rs = 0.54, p = 0.004) and single-leg vertical jump (rs = 0.44, p = 0.018)) correlate significantly with the IKDC-SKF at six months. No adverse events related to the use of the sensor-based application were reported. These findings confirm the clinical validity of a DMD to objectively quantify knee joint function for the first time. This will have further implications for clinical and therapeutic decision making, quality control and monitoring of rehabilitation measures as well as scientific research.
Content Quality Assurance on Media Platforms with User-Generated Content
Authors: Zhu Xingzhen , Lang Markus , Dietl Helmut Max
Published: September 2023

This paper develops a duopoly model for user-generated content (UGC) platforms, which compete for consumers and content producers in two-sided markets characterized by network externalities. Each platform has the option to invest in a content quality assurance (CQA) system and determine the level of advertising. Our model reveals that network effects are pivotal in shaping the platforms’ optimal strategies and user behavior, specifically in terms of single vs. multi-homing. We find that when network effects for producers are weak, consumers tend to engage in multi-homing while producers prefer single-homing. Conversely, strong network effects lead to the opposite behavior. Furthermore, our model demonstrates that user behavior and network effects dictate whether a platform is incentivized to incorporate advertisements and/or invest in CQA. Generally, weak network effects prompt a platform to invest in a CQA system, unless both consumers and producers engage in multi-homing. Our model’s results highlight the importance for platform companies to evaluate the extent of network effects on their platform in order to anticipate user behavior, which subsequently informs the optimal CQA and advertising strategy.
Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes in Women with Metabolic Syndrome and Substance Use Disorder
Authors: Sundaram Vijaya Lakshmi , Lamichhane Rajan , Cecchetti Alfred , Arthur Subha , Murughiyan Usha
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome amplifies the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm labor in pregnant women. Similarly, women with substance use disorder have worsened obstetric and birth outcomes. Despite these two conditions being major healthcare disparities in Appalachia, the health outcomes of this cohort have not been studied thus far. This study looks at the health outcomes of this cohort. Method and Results: In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed 27,955 mothers who delivered at Cabell Huntington Hospital between January 2010 and November 2021. We implemented Chi-square tests to determine the associations and multiple logistic regression methods for comparison after controlling for other factors, and found that MetS, together with SUD, significantly increases the risk as well as the number of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes (p-value < 0.001), preeclampsia (p-value < 0.001), premature rupture (p-value < 0.001), preterm labor (p-value < 0.001), and newborn disorder (p-value < 0.001) compared to the women who had none or had either MetS or SUD alone. Conclusion: Women with both metabolic syndrome and substance abuse had worsened pregnancy and neonatal outcomes compared to women with metabolic syndrome or SUD alone. In conclusion, analysis of all the variables is crucial to strategically planning and implementing health interventions that will positively influence the health outcome of the pregnant woman as well as the child.
tert-Butyl N-Hydroxycarbamate (N-Boc-Hydroxylamine)
Authors: Aitken R. Alan , Cordes David B. , McKay Aidan P. , Sonecha Dheirya K.
Published: September 2023

The X-ray structure of the title compound has been determined for the first time. This features ribbons formed by two parallel chains of molecules joined by C=O···H–N hydrogen bonding, which are then cross-linked by C=O···H–O hydrogen bonds. The structure is compared to those of closely related compounds.
2,8-Dibromo-6H,12H-6,12-epoxydibenzo[b,f][1,5]dioxocine
Authors: Aitken R. Alan , Cordes David B. , Ler An Jie , McKay Aidan P.
Published: September 2023

The title dibromodisalicylaldehyde, obtained as a by-product in the m-chloroperoxybenzoic acid oxidation of 5-bromo-2-(methoxymethoxy)benzaldehyde, has been characterised by IR and NMR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The structure features two independent molecules with a π–π stacking interaction between them.
Glass-Ceramic Fillers Based on Zinc Oxide–Silica Systems for Dental Composite Resins: Effect on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Torkian Peyman , Mortazavi Najafabadi SayedMohsen , Ghashang Majid , Grzelczyk Dariusz
Published: September 2023

The potential of glass ceramics as applicable materials in various fields including fillers for dental restorations is our guide to present a new procedure for improvements of the mechanical properties of dental composites. This work aims to use Zn2SiO4 and SiO2–ZnO nano-materials as fillers to improve the mechanical properties of Bis-GMA/TEGDMA mixed dental resins. Zn2SiO4 and SiO2–ZnO samples were prepared and characterized by using XRD, FE-SEM, EDX, and FT-IR techniques. The XRD pattern of the SiO2–ZnO sample shows that ZnO crystallized in a hexagonal phase, while the SiO2 phase was amorphous. Similarly, the Zn2SiO4 sample crystallized in a rhombohedral crystal system. The prepared samples were used as fillers for the improvement of the mechanical properties of Bis-GMA/TEGDMA mixed dental resins. Five samples of dental composites composed of Bis-GMA/TEGDMA mixed resins were filled with 2, 5, 8, 10, and 15 wt% of SiO2–ZnO, and similarly, five samples were filled with Zn2SiO4 samples (2, 5, 8, 10, and 15 wt%). All of the 10 samples (A1–A10) were characterized by using different techniques including FT-IR, FE-SEM, EDX, and TGA analyses. According to the TGA analysis, all samples were thermally stable up to 200 °C, and the thermal stability increased with the filler percent. Next, the mechanical properties of the samples including the flexural strength (FS), flexural modulus (FM), diameter tensile strength (DTS), and compressive strength (CS) were investigated. The obtained results revealed that the samples filled with 8 wt% of SiO2–ZnO and 10 wt% of Zn2SiO4 had higher FS values of 123.4 and 136.6 MPa, respectively. Moreover, 8 wt% of both fillers displayed higher values of the FM, DTS, and CS parameters. These values were 8.6 GPa, 34.2 MPa, and 183.8 MPa for SiO2–ZnO and 11.3 GPa, 41.2 MPa, and 190.5 MPa for the Zn2SiO4 filler. Inexpensive silica-based materials enhance polymeric mechanics. Silica–metal oxide nanocomposites improve dental composite properties effectively.
Experimental and Numerical Study on Hysteretic Behavior of Frictional Energy Dissipation Steel Truss
Authors: Zhou Zhibin , Zhou Xuhong , Zhou Qishi , Fu Huawei , Liu Shuaishuai
Published: September 2023

In this study, the hysteretic behavior of a novel frictional energy dissipation steel truss (FED-ST) is examined. The proposed FED-ST incorporates a friction damper with brass as the friction material into the top chord of traditional truss to improve the seismic performance of the staggered truss framing systems. A FED-ST specimen with a scale of 1:2.5 was subjected to a hysteresis test. The hysteretic behavior, ductility, and energy dissipation capability were analyzed considering the test findings. It is demonstrated that the FED-ST specimen has favorable ductility and an energy dissipation capacity that is 7.3 times more than that of a conventional truss specimen. The test findings were then used to compare and validate a finite element (FE) model. The FE analysis results are in strong agreement with the test results, demonstrating the validity of the modeling approach. To further investigate the impact of the cover plate width on the behavior of the FED-ST, preliminary parametric research was also carried out.
Early Thyroid Risk Prediction by Data Mining and Ensemble Classifiers
Authors: Alshayeji Mohammad H.
Published: September 2023

Thyroid disease is among the most prevalent endocrinopathies worldwide. As the thyroid gland controls human metabolism, thyroid illness is a matter of concern for human health. To save time and reduce error rates, an automatic, reliable, and accurate thyroid identification machine-learning (ML) system is essential. The proposed model aims to address existing work limitations such as the lack of detailed feature analysis, visualization, improvement in prediction accuracy, and reliability. Here, a public thyroid illness dataset containing 29 clinical features from the University of California, Irvine ML repository was used. The clinical features helped us to build an ML model that can predict thyroid illness by analyzing early symptoms and replacing the manual analysis of these attributes. Feature analysis and visualization facilitate an understanding of the role of features in thyroid prediction tasks. In addition, the overfitting problem was eliminated by 5-fold cross-validation and data balancing using the synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE). Ensemble learning ensures prediction model reliability owing to the involvement of multiple classifiers in the prediction decisions. The proposed model achieved 99.5% accuracy, 99.39% sensitivity, and 99.59% specificity with the boosting method which is applicable to real-time computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) systems to ease diagnosis and promote early treatment.
Selective Extraction of Lithium from Spent Lithium-Ion Manganese Oxide Battery System through Sulfating Roasting and Water-Leaching
Authors: Becker Jeraldiny , Will Sebastian , Friedrich Bernd
Published: September 2023

Sulfating roasting tests were conducted with different agents to investigate lithium recovery from spent lithium-ion manganese oxide (LMO) batteries. In this study, CaSO4 and CaCO3 were used as reactants, and the optimal temperature, residence time, and molar fraction of CaSO4 in a static reactor were determined. In the experiments, the temperature ranged between 620 and 720 °C, and the holding time was between 10 and 40 min. In addition, the molar fraction of CaSO4 varied between 0 and 100%, with the rest being CaCO3. The water leaching was fixed at an S/L ratio of 1/20 and heated to 60 °C for 1 h. The maximum Li yield achieved was 93.4% at 720 °C, 25 min, and a 0.5 molar fraction of CaSO4, and virtually no Mn was present in the solution. Therefore, high selectivity for Mn—which is the major compound in the LMO black mass—was observed. Regarding statistical evaluation, temperature was the most influential parameter and, to a lesser extent, the molar fraction of CaSO4. The product displayed a sintering effect, suggesting that the pyrolyzed black mass and reactive underwent a solid-solid reaction in the selected temperature range.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Verification of Nickel-Based Superalloy Disc-Shaped Parts Formed by Semi-Solid Thixoforming
Authors: Xiao Guanfei , Jiang Jufu , Wang Ying
Published: September 2023

Numerical simulation of the thixoforming process of GH4037 nickel-based superalloy disc-shaped components is performed using DEFORM-3D software (Deform V11). The complete numerical simulation process includes three stages in this work: heat transfer to air, heat transfer on the ejector rod, and the semi-solid thixoforming process. The effects of billet placement, billet temperature, and extrusion velocity on the numerical simulation of thixoforming were investigated. Furthermore, some disc-shaped components were produced through thixoforming to verify the results of numerical simulation. The simulation results indicate that horizontal billet placement is beneficial to the thixoforming of the GH4037 part. A higher billet temperature is good for the filling of disc-shaped components, and the formed part is completely filled when the billet temperature is higher than 1360 °C. Higher extrusion velocity leads to lower effective stress of the disc-shaped component. However, high extrusion velocity easily leads to the separation of solid and liquid phases and aggravates the wear and impact of the dies. The experimental results of thixoforming are in good agreement with the results of numerical simulation, and GH4037 nickel-based superalloy disc-shaped components with complete filling and good surface quality are obtained under the optimized process parameters.
Impact of Deposition Power and Gas Flow Ratio on the Tribological Properties of Titanium Vanadium Nitride Thin Films
Authors: Chauhan Kamlesh V. , Rawal Sushant , Patel Nicky P. , Subhedar Dattatraya G.
Published: September 2023

Magnetron sputtering was used for producing titanium vanadium nitride (TiVN) coatings on brass substrates. In this research, we investigate how changing the sputtering power and nitrogen:argon (N2:Ar) gas ratio affects the structural and tribological properties of TiVN coatings. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to examine TiVN coating surface morphology. Both variants showed a gradual increase in the intensity of the TiVN coatings’ (111) and (222) peaks. The TiVN coatings’ tribological properties were examined using a pin-on-disc tribometer with varying loads, speeds, and sliding distances. The wear rates of TiVN-coated brass pins were in the range of 2.5 × 10−4 to 9.14 × 10−4 mm3/Nm depending on load, sliding distance, and gas ratio variation, when compared to the wear rates of TiVN-coated brass pins deposited at various powers, which ranged from 1.76 × 10−3 to 5.87 × 10−3 mm3/Nm.
Integrated Analysis of Long Non-Coding RNA Expression Profiles in Glaesserella parasuis-Induced Meningitis: New Insight into Pathogenesis
Authors: Sun Peiyan , Yang Yaqiong , Cheng Hongxing , Fu Shulin , Liu Yulan , Qiu Yinsheng , Chen Hongbo , Zhang Jing , Zhou Huanhuan , Shi Liangyu , Ren Hongyan , Chao Zhe , Guo Ling
Published: September 2023

Glaesserella parasuis (G. parasuis) can elicit meningitis in pigs; however, the pathogenic mechanisms of meningitis induced by G. parasuis remain unclear. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been proven to play key roles in a variety of physiological and pathological processes. However, whether lncRNAs are involved in meningitis triggered by G. parasuis has not been investigated. In this study, we performed an integrative analysis of lncRNAs expression profiles in the porcine brain infected with G. parasuis using RNA-seq. The results showed that lncRNA expressions in G. parasuis-induced meningitis were modified, and a total of 306 lncRNAs exhibited significant differential expression, in which 176 lncRNAs were up-regulated and 130 lncRNAs were down-regulated. KEGG enrichment analysis demonstrated that the differentially expressed target mRNAs of affected lncRNAs in G. parasuis-infected porcine brain were mainly involved in the cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), Jak-STAT signaling pathway, PI3k-Akt signaling pathway, and TNF signaling pathway. The expression relationship between the most affected differential lncRNAs and their differential target mRNAs was visualized by a co-expression network. A protein-protein interaction network consisting of 12 differential targets was constructed using STRING analysis. In addition, differential expressions of important lncRNAs were validated by qRT-PCR. lncRNA ALDBSSCT0000007362, ALDBSSCT0000001959, ALDBSSCT0000005529, MSTRG.2939.1, and MSTRG.32374.1 showed the same expression pattern with the lncRNA sequencing data. Our results demonstrated that G. parasuis could modify the lncRNA expression profiles in the porcine brain. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report revealing the integrative analysis of lncRNA expression profiles in G. parasuis-induced meningitis, which could enhance important information to understand the inflammatory functions of lncRNAs involved in swine meningitis, and also provide a foundation for finding out novel strategies to prevent and treat meningitis in piglets triggered by G. parasuis.
Preventing Adipogenesis and Preserving Mitochondria and GLUT-4 Functions by Extracts and Isolated Compounds of Australian Acacia saligna
Authors: Asmara Anjar P. , Chen Hui , Ung Alison T.
Published: September 2023

Acacia saligna’s secondary metabolites show promise in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus and its related conditions. We previously discovered that methanolic extracts, isolated flavonoids, and cyclitols effectively preserve mitochondria in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In this current work, quantification of lipid droplet levels with Oil Red O assay showed a noticeable decrease in lipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells. Methanolic leaf and bark extracts and isolated compounds, (−)-epicatechin 6 and myricitrin 8, reduced cellular lipid levels by 21.15% to 25.28%, respectively. mRNA levels of key regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis, such as adiponectin, PGC-1α, and mtTFA, were increased. Methanolic flower extract (FL-MeOH) and its chemical components, naringenin 1 and D-(+)-pinitol 5a, increased these gene levels from 10% to 29% at the higher dose. Our study found that FL-MeOH slightly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, attributed to two phytochemicals, naringenin-7-O-α-L-arabinofuranoside 2 and D-(+)-pinitol 5a. Western blot analysis also showed that adipocytes treated with MeOH extracts had higher GLUT-4 expression levels than untreated adipocytes. Overall, A. saligna extracts and their isolated compounds demonstrated anti-lipogenesis activity during 3T3-L1 cell differentiation, modulation of transcriptional levels of adiponectin, PGC-1α, and mtTFA, reducing TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA levels, promoting mitochondrial biogenesis, and enhancing GLUT-4 expression.
Determination and Analysis of Thermodynamic Properties of Methyl Methylanthranilate Isomers
Authors: Silva Carlos A. O. , Freitas Vera L. S. , da Silva Maria D. M. C. Ribeiro
Published: September 2023

The enthalpies of formation in the gaseous phase of methyl 3-methylanthranilate and methyl 5-methylanthranilate were determined from experimental measurements of the corresponding standard energies of combustion, obtained from combustion calorimetry, and the standard enthalpies of vaporization and sublimation, obtained from Calvet microcalorimetry and Knudsen mass-loss effusion. A computational study, using the G3(MP2)//B3LYP composite method, has also been performed for the calculation of the gas-phase standard enthalpies of formation of those two molecules at T = 298.15 K, as well as for the remaining isomers, methyl 4-methylanthranilate and methyl 6-methylanthranilate. The results have been used to evaluate and analyze the energetic effect of the methyl substituent in different positions of the ring.
Optimization of the Green Extraction of Red Araçá (Psidium catteyanum Sabine) and Application in Alginate Membranes for Use as Dressings
Authors: Lacorte Douglas Hardt , Valério Filho Alaor , Carvalho Márcio Dantas , Avila Luisa Bataglin , Moraes Caroline Costa , Rosa Gabriela Silveira da
Published: September 2023

In this research, the aim was to introduce innovation to the pharmaceutical field through the exploration of an underutilized plant matrix, the red araçá, along with the utilization of sodium alginate for the development of membranes designed for active topical dressings. Within this context, optimal extraction conditions were investigated using the central composite rotational statistical design (CCRD) to obtain a red araçá epicarp extract (RAEE) rich in bioactive compounds utilizing the maceration technique. The extract acquired under the optimized conditions (temperature of 66 °C and a hydroalcoholic solvent concentration of 32%) was incorporated into a sodium alginate matrix for the production of active membranes using a casting method. Characterization of the membranes revealed that the addition of the extract did not significantly alter its morphology. Furthermore, satisfactory results were observed regarding mechanical and barrier properties, as well as the controlled release of phenolic compounds in an environment simulating wound exudate. Based on these findings, the material produced from renewable matrices demonstrates the promising potential for application as a topical dressing within the pharmaceutical industry.
The Effect of Sample Pretreatment on the Anthocyanin Content in Czech Wild Elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.)
Authors: Česlová Lenka , Kalendová Petra , Dubnová Lucie , Pernica Marek , Fischer Jan
Published: September 2023

This work focusses on the analysis of anthocyanins present in wild Czech elderberries, using spectrophotometric methods and liquid chromatography. Spectrophotometric methods were used to determine antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content, and total anthocyanin content. Further, four major elderberry anthocyanins were determined using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with isocratic elution of 30% aqueous methanol with 5% of formic acid. All optimised methods were applied to the analysis of extracts prepared from frozen and dried elderberry fruit samples, and the results were evaluated using principal component analysis which clearly divided the samples into individual groups according to the sample pretreatment (frozen and dried samples). The frozen samples reached higher values of antioxidant capacity and total phenolic and anthocyanin contents compared to the dried samples, probably due to the degradation of anthocyanins during the drying process.