bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Selective and Nonselective Beta Blockers on Bone Mineral Density in Mexican Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Mejía-Barradas César Miguel , Amador-Martínez Ana , Lara-Padilla Eleazar , Cárdenas-Rodríguez Noemí , Ignacio-Mejía Iván , Martínez-López Valentín , Ibañez-Cervantes Gabriela , Picado-Garcia Orlando de Jesús , Domínguez Brayan , Bandala Cindy
Published: August 2024

Breast cancer (BCa) is related to chronic stress and can reduce the bone mineral density (BMD) through neurochemicals related to beta-adrenergic receptor (ADRB) 1 and 2. Selective beta blockers (sBBs) and nonselective beta blockers (nsBBs) are used to treat systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) and may have osteoprotective effects, as they inhibit ADRBs. To evaluate the effects of sBBs and nsBBs on the BMD of Mexican patients with BCa. A retrospective study was conducted. We included 191 Mexican women with BCa without SAH and with SAH treated with nsBBs, sBBs, and diuretics. BMD was evaluated using a bone density scan (DEX scan). A greater average BMD (p < 0.05) was observed in patients with prior treatment with both nsBBs and sBBs (0.54 ± 0.94 and −0.44 ± 1.22, respectively) compared to patients treated with diuretics or without SAH (−1.73 ± 0.83 and −1.22 ± 0.98, respectively). Regarding the diagnosis of osteoporosis/osteopenia, no cases were observed in patients treated with nsBBs, whereas 5.6% of the patients treated with sBBs presented osteopenia. A total of 23.1% and 10.6% patients managed with diuretics or without treatment presented with osteoporosis and 61.5% and 48% patients managed with loop diuretics and without treatment presented with osteopenia, respectively (p < 0.05). Treatment with nsBBs is a promising option for the prevention and management of osteoporosis/osteopenia in Mexican patients with BCa; however, further prospective studies are needed.
In Vivo Tracking and 3D Mapping of Cell Death in Regeneration and Cancer Using Trypan Blue
Authors: Procel Nicole , Camacho Karen , Verboven Elisabeth , Baroja Isabel , Guerrero Priscila A. , Hillen Hanne , Estrella-García Carlos , Vizcaíno-Rodríguez Nicole , Sansores-Garcia Leticia , Santamaría-Naranjo Ana , Romero-Carvajal Andrés , Caicedo Andrés , Halder Georg , Moya Iván M.
Published: August 2024

Tracking cell death in vivo can enable a better understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying tissue homeostasis and disease. Unfortunately, existing cell death labeling methods lack compatibility with in vivo applications or suffer from low sensitivity, poor tissue penetration, and limited temporal resolution. Here, we fluorescently labeled dead cells in vivo with Trypan Blue (TBlue) to detect single scattered dead cells or to generate whole-mount three-dimensional maps of large areas of necrotic tissue during organ regeneration. TBlue effectively marked different types of cell death, including necrosis induced by CCl4 intoxication in the liver, necrosis caused by ischemia-reperfusion in the skin, and apoptosis triggered by BAX overexpression in hepatocytes. Moreover, due to its short circulating lifespan in blood, TBlue labeling allowed in vivo “pulse and chase” tracking of two temporally spaced populations of dying hepatocytes in regenerating mouse livers. Additionally, upon treatment with cisplatin, TBlue labeled dead cancer cells in livers with cholangiocarcinoma and dead thymocytes due to chemotherapy-induced toxicity, showcasing its utility in assessing anticancer therapies in preclinical models. Thus, TBlue is a sensitive and selective cell death marker for in vivo applications, facilitating the understanding of the fundamental role of cell death in normal biological processes and its implications in disease.
A Series of Zinc Mononuclear Complexes with Imidoyl Amidine Ligands: Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Photoluminescence Properties
Authors: Nijhuis Mart Ruben , Yamba Zaina , Novikov Egor , Fonari Marina S. , Timofeeva Tatiana V. , Castañeda Raúl
Published: August 2024

Three amidine-based ligands were used in the crystal design of a series of mononuclear Zn(II) complexes. Interaction of zinc chloride, ZnCl2, with N-2-pyridylimidoyl-2-pyridylamidine (Py2ImAm) resulted in complexes [Zn(Py2ImAm)2] (1) and [ZnCl2(Py2ImAm)] (2). In [Zn(Py2ImAm)2] (1, monoclinic, P21/c), the metal ion was coordinated with the bidentate pocket of the anionic form of Py2ImAm, while in [ZnCl2(Py2ImAm)] (2, monoclinic, P21/n), the tridentate coordination to a neutral Py2ImAm was completed by two chloride anions. This structural variation was achieved by a pH-controlling strategy using the weak base triethylamine (TEA). Otherwise, three ionic complexes were obtained with 2-amidinopyridine (PyAm) and Zinc(II), [ZnCl(PyAm)2]Cl (3, triclinic, P-1), [ZnCl(PyAm)2]2[ZnCl4]·C2H5OH (4, monoclinic, P21/n), and [ZnCl(PyAm)2]2Cl·CH3OH (5, triclinic, P-1). They comprised the same [ZnCl(PyAm)2]+ monocation with a butterfly-like shape provided by the bidentate chelate coordination of two PyAm neutral entities and a chloride ligand. In a similar butterfly shape, ionic complex [ZnCl(PmAm)2]2[ZnCl4] (6, monoclinic, C2/c) comprised the mononuclear [ZnCl(PmAm)2]+ cations with two bidentate chelate-coordinated 2-amidinopyrimidine (PmAm) as neutral ligands. The Zn(II) pentacoordinated arrangement in 3–6 was variable, from square pyramidal to trigonal bipyramidal. The reported compounds’ synthetic protocols, crystal structures and photoluminescence properties are discussed.
Iron and Vitamin A Status of Children Aged 0 to 36 Months in Thulamela Municipality, Vhembe District, South Africa
Authors: Mugware Anzani , Motadi Selekane Ananias , Bere Alphonce , Mushaphi Lindelani Fhumudzani
Published: August 2024

Objective: The present study assessed the iron and Vitamin A status of children aged 0 to 36 months in Thulamela municipality, Vhembe District. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 children aged 0 to 36 months attending well-baby clinic services with their mothers. Convenience sampling was used to select study participants, and simple random sampling was used to choose clinics. Data were gathered via a questionnaire administered by the researcher and field workers from August to September 2019. Standard techniques were used to measure body weight and height. In addition, serum retinol, haemoglobin, iron, ferritin, transferrin saturation, and transferrin levels were also assessed. Information on dietary diversity was gathered through a 24 h dietary recall. Results: The prevalence of underweight, wasting, and stunting was 3.6%, 2%, and 9.2%, respectively. Using serum retinol <10 µg/dL, 22% of children had vitamin A deficiency. The prevalence of anaemia was 53.6%, while 13.1% of children had iron deficiency anaemia when using serum ferritin of less than 12 μg/dL. Most children (90.8%) had an inadequate dietary diversity score, while 9.2% had sufficient dietary diversity. The most consumed food groups were grains, roots and tubers, vitamin A rich fruits and vegetable, and flesh foods. A higher percentage (44%) of children with low iron ferritin were underweight compared to those with normal iron ferritin (df = 1, p-value = 0.007). Conclusion: Iron, anaemia, and vitamin A deficiencies, accompanied by a high prevalence of stunting, were common among children in Thulamela Municipality. Thus, improving nutritional status in this area is a critical need.
Transcriptomic Approach for Investigation of Solanum spp. Resistance upon Early-Stage Broomrape Parasitism
Authors: Gerakari Maria , Kotsira Vasiliki , Kapazoglou Aliki , Tastsoglou Spyros , Katsileros Anastasios , Chachalis Demosthenis , Hatzigeorgiou Artemis G. , Tani Eleni
Published: August 2024

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a major horticultural crop of high economic importance. Phelipanche and Orobanche genera (broomrapes) are parasitic weeds, constituting biotic stressors that impact tomato production. Developing varieties with tolerance to broomrapes has become imperative for sustainable agriculture. Solanum pennellii, a wild relative of cultivated tomato, has been utilized as breeding material for S. lycopersicum. In the present study, it is the first time that an in-depth analysis has been conducted for these two specific introgression lines (ILs), IL6-2 and IL6-3 (S. lycopersicum X S. pennellii), which were employed to identify genes and metabolic pathways associated with resistance against broomrape. Comparative transcriptomic analysis revealed a multitude of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in roots, especially in the resistant genotype IL6-3, several of which were validated by quantitative PCR. DEG and pathway enrichment analysis (PEA) revealed diverse molecular mechanisms that can potentially be implicated in the host’s defense response and the establishment of resistance. The identified DEGs were mostly up-regulated in response to broomrape parasitism and play crucial roles in various processes different from strigolactone regulation. Our findings indicate that, in addition to the essential role of strigolactone metabolism, multiple cellular processes may be involved in the tomato’s response to broomrapes. The insights gained from this study will enhance our understanding and facilitate molecular breeding methods regarding broomrape parasitism. Moreover, they will assist in developing sustainable strategies and providing alternative solutions for weed management in tomatoes and other agronomically important crops.
Unlocking the Genetic Secrets of Acromegaly: Exploring the Role of Genetics in a Rare Disorder
Authors: Balinisteanu Ioana , Caba Lavinia , Florea Andreea , Popescu Roxana , Florea Laura , Ungureanu Maria-Christina , Leustean Letitia , Gorduza Eusebiu Vlad , Preda Cristina
Published: August 2024

Acromegaly is a rare endocrine disorder characterized by the excessive production of growth hormone (GH) in adulthood. Currently, it is understood that certain pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) exhibit a hereditary predisposition. These tumors’ genetic patterns fall into two categories: isolated and syndromic tumors. The isolated forms are characterized by molecular defects that predispose exclusively to PitNETs, including familial isolated pituitary adenomas (FIPAs) and sporadic genetic defects not characterized by hereditary predisposition. All the categories involve either germline or somatic mutations, or both, each associated with varying levels of penetrance and different phenotypes. This highlights the importance of genetic testing and the need for a more comprehensive view of the whole disease. Despite the availability of multiple treatment options, diagnosis often occurs after several years, and management is still difficult. Early detection and intervention are crucial for preventing complications and enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals. This review aims to elucidate the molecular, clinical, and histological characteristics of GH-secreting PitNETs, providing insights into their prevalence, treatment nuances, and the benefits of genetic testing for each type of genetic disorder associated with acromegaly.
Efficacy of SGPP2 Modulation-Mediated Materials in Ameliorating Facial Wrinkles and Pore Sagging
Authors: Kim Juhyun , Ye Sanghyun , Jun Seung-Hyun , Kang Nae-Gyu
Published: August 2024

Skin aging is a complex process with internal and external factors. Recent studies have suggested that enlargement and elongation of skin pores may be early signs of aging in addition to wrinkles and loss of elasticity. This study explores the potential of targeting the SGPP2 gene in keratinocytes to address these emerging concerns. Using siRNA knockdown, we demonstrated that SGPP2 modulates the production of inflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-8). Furthermore, conditioned media experiments revealed that keratinocytes with high SGPP2 expression indirectly influence fibroblast extracellular matrix remodeling, potentially contributing to enlarged pores and wrinkle formation. Based on these findings, we explored a complex formulation containing four SGPP2-modulating compounds. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated the efficacy of the formulation in mitigating fine wrinkles and pore enlargement. This study highlights the significant implications of developing a more effective antiaging cosmetic formulation by targeting underlying inflammatory processes that drive skin aging.
An Increase in Aspartate Aminotransferase Can Predict Worsening Disease Severity in Japanese Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Matsumoto Kengo , Nishida Tsutomu , Nakamatsu Dai , Yamamoto Masashi , Fukui Koji , Morimura Osamu , Abe Kinya , Okauchi Yukiyoshi , Iwahashi Hiromi , Inada Masami
Published: August 2024

Background: The prognostic significance of liver dysfunction in COVID-19 patients remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the association between liver function test results and severe disease progression in COVID-19 patients. Methods: This retrospective study included consecutive Japanese COVID-19 patients admitted between February 2020 and July 2021. Predictive variables for severe disease progression were identified by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Severe disease-free survival was estimated with the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression analysis. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) was divided into three grades: grade 1, AST < 30 U/L; grade 2, 30 U/L ≤ AST < 60 U/L; and grade 3, AST > 60 U/L. Results: Among 604 symptomatic patients, 141 (23.3%) developed severe disease at a median of 2 days postadmission. The median hospital stay was 10 days, and 43 patients (7.1%) died during hospitalization. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that hypertension, decreased lymphocyte count, and elevated LDH, CRP, and AST levels (grade 2 and grade 3 relative to grade 1) were the significant predictive variables. Severe disease-free survival time was significantly different between the different AST grades (hazard ratio (HR): grade 2 vs. grade 1, 4.07 (95% confidential interval (CI): 2.06–8.03); grade 3 vs. grade 1, 7.66 (95% CI: 3.89–15.1)). Conclusions: The AST level at admission was an independent risk factor for severe disease in hospitalized Japanese patients with COVID-19.
One-Step Fabrication of Composite Hydrophobic Electrically Heated Graphene Surface
Authors: Zhong Mian , Li Shichen , Fan Hongyun , Zhang Huazhong , Jiang Yong , Luo Jinling , Yang Liang
Published: August 2024

Ice accumulation poses considerable challenges in transportation, notably in the domain of general aviation. The present study combines the strengths and limitations of conventional aircraft deicing techniques with the emerging trend toward all-electric aircraft. This study aims to utilize laser-induced graphene (LIG) technology to create a multifunctional surface, seamlessly integrating hydrophobic properties with efficient electrical heating to mitigate surface icing effectively. We investigated the utilization of a 10.6 μm CO2 laser for direct writing on polyimide (PI), a widely used insulating encapsulation material. From the thermomechanical perspective, our initial analysis using COMSOL Multiphysics software (V5.6) revealed that when the laser power P exceeds 5 W, the PI substrate experiences ablative damage. The experimental results show that when P ≤ 5 W, an increase in power has a positive impact on the quality, surface porosity, roughness reduction, line-spacing reduction, and water contact-angle enhancement of the graphene. Conversely, when P > 5 W, higher power negatively affects both the substrate and the graphene structure by inducing excessive ablation. However, it influences the graphene line height positively and is consistent with overall experimental–simulation congruence. Furthermore, the incorporation of high-quality graphene resulted in a surface that exhibited higher contact angles (CA > 120°), lower energy consumption, and higher heating efficiency compared to the use of traditional electrically heated materials for anti-icing applications. The potential applications of this one-step fabrication method extend across various industries, particularly aviation, marine engineering, and other ice-prone domains. Moreover, the method has extensive prospects for addressing pivotal challenges associated with ice formation and serves as an innovative and efficient anti-icing technology.
Modification of the Crumb Rubber Asphalt by Eucommia Ulmoides Gum under a High-Temperature Mixing Process
Authors: Shi Yueyang , Tong Zongliang , Ren Qingbo , Li Zhigang , Wang Jingling
Published: August 2024

The crumb rubber (CR) asphalt has some defects of high viscosity and poor storage stability, which brings great challenge to the high-quality construction of the CR asphalt pavement. To improve the interaction between the CR and base binder, the Eucommia ulmoides gum (EUG) with double-bond structure similar to trans-polyoctenamer rubber (TOR) was used to modify the CR asphalt. However, the original EUG double bond is basically inactive at room temperature and cannot form the effect of TOR. Open double bonds of EUG with asphalt and rubber powder form a network structure similar to TOR-modified rubber asphalt by high-temperature mixing with EUG in a torque rheometer. The effects of modified CR on rubber asphalt were analyzed by macro- and micro-experiments such as rotational viscosity tests, segregation tests, FTIR tests, and PG tests. It was found that the high-temperature mixing process works in both physical and chemical ways to mix the CR and EUG into an inseparable substance. The modified CR has higher chemical activity after desulfurization and degradation, which allows it to form a more effective chemical connection with asphalt. EUG can build a stable spatial crosslinking structure in CR asphalt due to the sulfurization reaction, which significantly improves the construction workability and system stability of the CR asphalt.
Bibliometric Study of Electrochemical Advanced Oxidation Processes (EAOPs) for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Brdarić Tanja P. , Aćimović Danka D. , Švorc Ľubomír , Vasić Anićijević Dragana D.
Published: August 2024

Electrochemical advanced oxidation processes (EAOPs) are at the forefront of scientific research as green technologies aimed at effectively purifying polluted aquatic environments. These methods utilize electrochemical processes to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as the hydroxyl radical (•OH), either on the anode surface or within the bulk solution, which can partially degrade or completely mineralize organic pollutants. The aim of the article is to provide a bibliometric analysis of research articles specifically focused on the application and development of EAOPs in wastewater treatment over the past five years. Utilizing the most extensive database for literature searches, Web of Science Core Collection (WoS), which encompasses 95% of global publications, a total of 649 research articles were retrieved by limiting the search results to words associated with EAOPs in titles, keywords, and abstracts. The bibliometric dataset was then processed using CiteSpace and VOSviewer software. The People’s Republic of China is emerging as the country with the highest production in the field, demonstrating a strong commitment to research and a leading role in international cooperation. This leadership is evident through China’s substantial contributions to the body of literature and its extensive network of collaborations with researchers worldwide. Meanwhile, Australia, despite producing fewer publications, has achieved a high citation rate, underscoring the significant impact and influence of its research within the scientific community. One of the most promising and extensively studied topics in this field is the electro-Fenton process, which has garnered considerable attention due to its potential applications and remarkable efficiency in various contexts. The bibliometric analysis conducted in this study allowed for a detailed visualization of the currently available literature data and corresponding developing trends. By mapping out the key areas of focus, prominent researchers, influential journals, and collaborative networks, this analysis provides valuable insights. These insights can facilitate future joint research endeavors, enhance collaboration, and promote the sharing of knowledge and best practices among researchers globally.
Comparative Study of the Chemical Composition of Root, Stem and Leaf Essential Oils from Synedrella nodiflora (L.) Gaertn
Authors: Kambiré Didjour Albert , Touré Kayatou , Yapi Thierry Acafou , Paoli Mathieu , Bighelli Ange , Boti Jean Brice , Tomi Félix
Published: August 2024

This study aims at investigating the chemical composition of root, stem and leaf essential oils from Ivorian Synedrella nodiflora, with the root oil being described for the first time. Sixty, fifty-one and forty-nine constituents were, respectively identified in the root, stem and leaf oils using a combination of GC(RI), GC-MS and 13C-NMR analyses. They accounted for 95.6–97.3%, 92.6–97.6% and 93.3–98.8% of the total composition, respectively. The main components of the root oil samples were γ-curcumene, (E)-β-caryophyllene, α-curcumene and curcuphenyl acetate. Three stem oil samples (S1, S2a, S3) were dominated by myrcene and limonene, while the most abundant components of sample S2b were thymol, germacrene D and β-elemene. (E)-β-caryophyllene and germacrene D were the major compounds of the leaf oil. Hierarchical cluster and principal component statistical analyses were performed and confirmed that the location does not influence the chemical composition. Group I consisted of the seven leaf oil samples, group II consisted of four stem oil samples and group III consisted of three root oil samples. The root oil composition differed considerably from the stem and leaf oil composition due to the presence of curcumene derivatives as major constituents. The leaf oil showed significant amounts of (E)-β-caryophyllene and germacrene D, while the stem oil stood out for its high myrcene, limonene and thymol contents.
Improved Hybrid Bagging Resampling Framework for Deep Learning-Based Side-Channel Analysis
Authors: Hameed Faisal , Ramesh Sumesh Manjunath , Alkhzaimi Hoda
Published: August 2024

As cryptographic implementations leak secret information through side-channel emissions, the Hamming weight (HW) leakage model is widely used in deep learning profiling side-channel analysis (SCA) attacks to expose the leaked model. However, imbalanced datasets often arise from the HW leakage model, increasing the attack complexity and limiting the performance of deep learning-based SCA attacks. Effective management of class imbalance is vital for training deep neural network models to achieve optimized and improved performance results. Recent works focus on either improved deep-learning methodologies or data augmentation techniques. In this work, we propose the hybrid bagging resampling framework, a two-pronged strategy for tackling class imbalance in side-channel datasets, consisting of data augmentation and ensemble learning. We show that adopting this framework can boost attack performance results in a practical setup. From our experimental results, the SMOTEENN ensemble achieved the best performance in the ASCAD dataset, and the basic ensemble performed the best in the CHES dataset, with both contributing over 70% practical improvements in performance compared to the original imbalanced dataset, and accelerating practical attack space in comparison to the classical setup of the attack.
Simulation Analysis of Three-Point Bending Fracture Process of Yellow River Ice
Authors: Deng Yu , Wang Juan , Meng Yuhan , Zhu Yong
Published: August 2024

During the ice flood period of the Yellow River, the fracture and destruction of river ice can easily lead to the formation of ice jams and ice dams in the curved and narrow reaches. However, the occurrence and development mechanism of river ice fracture remain incompletely understood in the Yellow River. Therefore, based on the three-point bending physical test of the Yellow River ice, a three-point bending fracture numerical model of the Yellow River ice was constructed. The fracture failure process of the Yellow River ice under three-point bending was simulated, and the effects of the crack-to-height ratio and ice grain size on the fracture properties of the river ice were analyzed. By comparing the results with those of physical tests on river ice, it is evident that the fracture model can effectively simulate the cracking process of river ice. Within the confines of the simulated sample size spectrum, as the crack-to-height ratio varies from 0.2 to 0.8, the fracture toughness value of the Yellow River ice spans a range from 115.01 to 143.37 KPa·m1/2. Correspondingly, within the simulated calculation values ranging from 5.38 mm to 24.07 mm for ice crystal size, the fracture toughness value of the Yellow River ice exhibits a range from 116.89 to 143.37 KPa·m1/2. The findings reveal that an increase in the crack-to-depth ratio leads to a decrement in the fracture toughness of river ice. Within the scale range encompassed by the model calculations, as the average size of the ice crystal grains augments, the fracture toughness of the river ice exhibits a gradual ascending trend. The research results provide a parameter basis for studying the fracture performance of the Yellow River ice using a numerical simulation method and lays a foundation for investigating the cracking process of river ice from macro and micro multi-scales.
Recurrent Supramolecular Patterns in a Series of Salts of Heterocyclic Polyamines and Heterocyclic Dicarboxylic Acids: Synthesis, Single-Crystal X-ray Structure, Hirshfeld Surface Analysis, Energy Framework, and Quantum Chemical Calculations
Authors: Bojarska Joanna , Łyczko Krzysztof , Breza Martin , Mieczkowski Adam
Published: August 2024

A series of novel salts based on aromatic polyamines and 2,3-pyrazinedicarboxylic acid, such as C10H12N6O5 (1), C10H9ClN6O4 (2), C11H10N8O4 (3), and C14H17N16O5.5 (4) or 3,4-thiophenedicarboxylic acid, such as C10H10N4O4S (5), C10H9ClN4O4S (6), and C10H10N4O4S2 (7), were synthesized and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. All compounds crystallize in a monoclinic space group. The structure was subjected to complex Hirshfeld surface analysis, molecular electrostatic potential, enrichment ratio, and energy framework calculations. The influence of different cations on the packing of 3-carboxypyrazine-2-carboxylate and 4-carboxythiophene-3-carboxylate anions in the crystal lattice was studied. O…H/H…O interactions are the main contributor in all crystals. In addition, in a series of pyrazine-containing structures, N(C)…H/H…N(C) interactions have relevance, while in a series of thiophene-based compounds, C…H/H…C and S…H(O)/H(O)…S. In addition, Cl-based interactions are observed in compound 2. According to the enrichment ratio calculations, O…H/H…O and C…C are the most preferable interactions in all structures. The energy frameworks are dominated by the dispersive contribution, only in compound 3 is the electrostatic term dominant. The analyzed structures reveal intra- and intermolecular recurrent supramolecular synthons. In both series of crystals, the robust H-bonded centrosymmetric dimer R22(8) as homo- or as heterosynthon (in compounds 2, 3, 6, and 7) and the intramolecular synthon S(7) generated by O-H…O interactions (in compounds 2, 6, and 7) are present. The supramolecular patterns formed by π…π (C…C) and C-O(Cl,S)…C are also noticeable. Notably, a dual synthon linking the supramolecular chain via π…π interactions and the homosynthon R22(8) via N-H…N interactions is visible in both series of new salts. A library of H-bonding motifs at diverse levels of supramolecular architecture is provided. We extended the analysis of intramolecular H-bonding motifs to similar structures deposited in the Cambridge Structural Database. Another important feature is the existence of an intramolecular O…H…O bridge between two neighboring carboxylic groups as substituents in anions in compounds 3 and 5. In this context, we performed quantum theory of atoms-in-molecule calculations to reveal more details.
Boosted Electrochemical Activity with SnO2 Nanostructures Anchored on α-Fe2O3 for Improved Charge Transfer and Current Density
Authors: Reddy Itheereddi Neelakanta , Akkinepally Bhargav , Shim Jaesool , Bai Cheolho
Published: August 2024

This study presents a straightforward and cost-effective method to enhance the photoelectrochemical (PEC) water-splitting performance of α-Fe2O3 (F), SnO2 (S), and α-Fe2O3 decorated with SnO2 quantum dots (FS) photoanodes in a NaOH electrolyte. The FS electrode demonstrated a notable improvement in PEC efficiency within the electrolyte. In particular, the generated charges of the FS anode in the NaOH electrolyte reached approximately 12.01 mA cm−2 under illumination, indicating that the developed heterostructures effectively enhanced kinetics, leading to improved separation of induced carrier pairs. This active carrier-pair separation mechanism contributed considerably to the increased PEC activity in the 0.1 M NaOH electrolyte. The reduction in the bandgap of FS increased its absorption capability in visible light, which further enhanced the current density. Furthermore, the reduction in electrolyte resistance (9.71 Ω), internal resistance (20.19 Ω), charge transfer resistance (3.21 kΩ), Tafel slope (45.5 mV dec-1), limiting current density (−2.09 mA cm−2), and exchange current density (−3.68 mA cm−2) under illumination at the interface enhanced the charge density of FS. Further, a strong interaction among photoanode nanostructures significantly enhances PEC activity by improving efficient charge separation and transport, reducing recombination rates, and enabling quicker movement of charge carriers to the electrode/electrolyte interface. Thus, this study provides an effective approach to increasing the PEC activity of heterostructures.
Expanding Indications for Liver Transplantation in the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Hogen Rachel , Barry Tara , Subramanian Vijay
Published: August 2024

Improvements in downstaging therapies have expanded the indications for liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients with more advanced disease are now considered candidates due to advancements in radiation therapy, combination therapies, and immunotherapy. Combination stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE) has been shown to be superior to the historic treatment, sorafenib, in patients with macrovascular invasion. These patients are now candidates for LT with stable disease after LRT. Patients with ruptured HCC and prolonged stability have also been shown to have acceptable outcomes. The role of neoadjuvant immunotherapy needs to be further defined and has the potential to further improve tumor control prior to transplant.
Ecology and Biogeography of Marine Benthos
Authors: Mamede Renato
Published: August 2024

The ocean floor, which spans approximately 71% of the Earth’s surface, stretches from sunlit shallow waters to the profound depths of ocean trenches around 11,000 m deep, encompassing regions from the polar ice to tropical seas [...]
Microhabitat Structure Affects Ground-Dwelling Beetle Communities More than Temperature along an Urbanization Gradient
Authors: Cabon Valentin , Laurent Yann , Georges Romain , Quénol Hervé , Dubreuil Vincent , Bergerot Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Urbanization profoundly alters environmental conditions for organisms, particularly through the urban heat island (UHI) effect, which elevates temperatures in city centers. This study examines the influence of urban environmental variables on rove and ground beetle communities. We sampled 36 grasslands in Rennes (northwestern France), yielding 3317 and 505 staphylinid and carabid adult individuals, respectively, belonging to 121 and 60 species, respectively. Staphylinid and carabid communities are not primarily affected by temperature-related variables. Staphylinids, often overlooked in urban ecology, showed species composition variation to be influenced by habitat and temperature, whereas their functional diversity was positively correlated with herbaceous vegetation height only. In contrast, carabid communities exhibited no significant relationship with the tested environmental variables. This study underscores the taxon-dependent nature of ectotherm’s responses to thermal environments. Although a further investigation into species-specific traits, and particularly dispersal capacities in staphylinids, is needed to advance our understanding of urbanization’s impact, our results indicate that functional diversity in staphylinid assemblages can be favored by locally reducing the mowing frequency or increasing the cutting height within urban green spaces.
A Sentiment Analysis Approach for Exploring Customer Reviews of Online Food Delivery Services: A Greek Case
Authors: Fragkos Nikolaos , Liapakis Anastasios , Ntaliani Maria , Ntalianis Filotheos , Costopoulou Constantina
Published: August 2024

The unprecedented production and sharing of data, opinions, and comments among people on social media and the Internet in general has highlighted sentiment analysis (SA) as a key machine learning approach in scientific and market research. Sentiment analysis can extract sentiments and opinions from user-generated text, providing useful evidence for new product decision-making and effective customer relationship management. However, there are concerns about existing standard sentiment analysis tools regarding the generation of inaccurate sentiment classification results. The objective of this paper is to determine the efficiency of off-the-shelf sentiment analysis APIs in recognizing low-resource languages, such as Greek. Specifically, we examined whether sentiment analysis performed on 300 online ordering customer reviews using the Meaning Cloud web-based tool produced meaningful results with high accuracy. According to the results of this study, we found low agreement between the web-based and the actual raters in the food delivery services related data. However, the low accuracy of the results highlights the need for specialized sentiment analysis tools capable of recognizing only one low-resource language. Finally, the results highlight the necessity of developing specialized lexicons tailored not only to a specific language but also to a particular field, such as a specific type of restaurant or shop.
COVID-19 Safety: Perspectives from Dental Students
Authors: Hung Man , Yevseyevich Daniel , Mohajeri Amir , Hablitzel Nicole , Su Sharon , Lipsky Martin S.
Published: August 2024

Background: The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic created challenges for healthcare providers, especially dental professionals in practices and universities. This study investigated dental students’ concerns about COVID-19 and whether institutional communication influenced pandemic-related stressors. Methods: An online survey designed to elicit dental students’ concerns about COVID-19 was distributed to all dental students enrolled at a private non-profit academic institution in the Western United States from 26 April 2021 to 25 August 2021. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the respondents, and Chi-square test and z-test analyses were used to compare students’ experiences. Results: A total of 92 dental students answered the survey. The respondents’ ages ranged from 22 to 47 years. Slightly more than half (50.5%) were male and 93.3% were non-Hispanic or non-Latino. Over one-fourth of the students (27.5%) reported that they either often or always felt anxious that they might become infected with the COVID-19 virus, with 16.3% of the students expressing concern about contracting COVID-19 while on campus. There were no statistically significant differences in anxiety levels about contracting COVID-19 from clinic patients or while on campus between the group of students who perceived the institution communicated effectively and those who did not. However, students who felt that the dental school clearly communicated COVID-19 protocols were more likely to believe that students took protocols seriously and expressed less concern about contracting COVID-19 by touching dental school items. Conclusions: About one-quarter of dental students expressed high levels of anxiety about being infected with COVID-19. Clear communication about COVID-19 protocols reduced students’ fear of contracting COVID-19 from dental school items and strengthened their belief that other students followed protocols.
Image Quality, Radiation Dose, and Patient Comfort Associated with Wireless Sensors in Digital Radiography: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ardila Carlos M. , Vivares-Builes Annie M. , Pineda-Vélez Eliana
Published: August 2024

Radiography facilities face challenges with the positioning of digital radiography detectors. This study evaluates the image quality, radiation dose, and patient comfort associated with wireless sensors in digital radiography. A systematic exploration was performed across PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and SCIELO. Nine papers met the eligibility criteria, including three observational studies with 111 patients, four in vitro experiments with 258 extracted human teeth, and two ex vivo investigations with 16 cadaver mandibles. All studies consistently reported high-quality images produced by wireless sensors. Two studies demonstrated the superiority of wireless sensors, one found comparable accuracy with conventional radiography, and another indicated similar image quality among the sensors. Both wireless and wired sensors significantly reduced radiation doses compared to conventional X-rays. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) did not reveal a clear superiority of wireless over wired sensors, though both were generally less comfortable than traditional film. The wireless sensors consistently produce high-quality images, comparable to or superior to other digital devices. Both wireless and wired sensors significantly reduce radiation doses compared to conventional X-rays, emphasizing their safety and efficacy. Patient comfort levels vary, with neither sensor type showing clear superiority over the other, and both being less comfortable than traditional film.
A Robust Hybrid Iterative Learning Formation Strategy for Multi-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems with Multi-Operating Modes
Authors: Yang Song , Yu Wenshuai , Liu Zhou , Ma Fei
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates the formation control problem of multi-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems with multi-operating modes. While mode switching enhances the flexibility of multi-UAV systems, it also introduces dynamic model switching behaviors in UAVs. Moreover, obtaining an accurate dynamic model for a multi-UAV system is challenging in practice. In addition, communication link failures and time-varying unknown disturbances are inevitable in multi-UAV systems. Hence, to overcome the adverse effects of the above challenges, a hybrid iterative learning formation control strategy is proposed in this paper. The proposed controller does not rely on precise modeling and exhibits its learning ability by utilizing historical input–output data to update the current control input. Furthermore, two convergence theorems are proven to guarantee the convergence of state, disturbance estimation, and formation tracking errors. Finally, three simulation examples are conducted for a multi-UAV system consisting of four quadrotor UAVs under multi-operating modes, switching topologies, and external disturbances. The results of the simulations show the strategy’s effectiveness and superiority in achieving the desired formation control objectives.
Fault Diagnosis Method for Wind Turbine Gearbox Based on Ensemble-Refined Composite Multiscale Fluctuation-Based Reverse Dispersion Entropy
Authors: Wang Xiang , Du Yang
Published: August 2024

The diagnosis of faults in wind turbine gearboxes based on signal processing represents a significant area of research within the field of wind power generation. This paper presents an intelligent fault diagnosis method based on ensemble-refined composite multiscale fluctuation-based reverse dispersion entropy (ERCMFRDE) for a wind turbine gearbox vibration signal that is nonstationary and nonlinear and for noise problems. Firstly, improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (ICEEMDAN) and stationary wavelet transform (SWT) are adopted for signal decomposition, noise reduction, and restructuring of gearbox signals. Secondly, we extend the single coarse-graining processing method of refined composite multiscale fluctuation-based reverse dispersion entropy (RCMFRDE) to the multiorder moment coarse-grained processing method, extracting mixed fault feature sets for denoised signals. Finally, the diagnostic results are obtained based on the least squares support vector machine (LSSVM). The dataset collected during the gearbox fault simulation on the experimental platform is employed as the research object, and the experiments are conducted using the method proposed in this paper. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method is an effective and reliable approach for accurately diagnosing gearbox faults, exhibiting high diagnostic accuracy and a robust performance.
Assessing the Economic Impact of IFRS Adoption on Financial Transparency and Growth in the Arab Gulf Countries
Authors: Morshed Amer
Published: August 2024

This paper examines the impact of adopting IFRS on economic growth and further development in the Arab Gulf countries, with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain. It, therefore, answers the research question of how IFRS adoption affects financial transparency, regulatory frameworks, and economic stability in general in oil-dependent economies. Using data from 2010 to 2020, the research uses regression models to test the influence of IFRS adoption on several key economic indicators. The results, thus, indicate that the adoption of IFRS considerably increases the level of transparency and, hence, enables the inflow of FDI as well, therefore ensuring economic growth. This result also sheds light on the critical roles that regulatory solid frameworks and political stability play in amplifying the benefits of IFRS adoption. However, family-based and state-owned enterprises’ resistance to increased demands for transparency is an issue that would provide a challenge. Implications for policy will be such that comprehensive reforms will be required with the countries’ regulatory frameworks, including more transparency and fitting the IFRS guidelines into local business practice and the cultural context. Future studies should also underscore sector-wise impact and go deeper into how cultural and institutional factors impact the effectiveness of implementing IFRS in the Arab Gulf region.
To Ban or Not to Ban? A Rapid Review on the Impact of Smartphone Bans in Schools on Social Well-Being and Academic Performance
Authors: Böttger Tobias , Zierer Klaus
Published: August 2024

The effects of smartphone use by children and young people, especially at school, are being discussed around the world. To support this discourse with scientific evidence, this systematic review is guided by the PRISMA framework and examines the effects of smartphone bans in schools on academic performance and social well-being. As a rapid review, it follows a streamlined methodology in order to provide a scientifically sound basis for educational policy decisions as quickly as possible. After a comprehensive database search, five research studies with quantitative results were selected and analyzed, and the effect sizes were calculated in the areas of academic performance and social behavior. The meta-analysis yielded an overall effect size of d = 0.162 (p < 0.05). Smartphone bans have a significant, but modest, effect. This is more pronounced in the domain of social well-being than in the performance domain. Smartphone bans can reduce social problems, such as bullying. The small effect on academic performance might be due to the limited number of studies and effects. We recommend that smartphone bans be introduced in schools, accompanied by educational measures, and evaluated regularly. This can improve the social climate and reduce potential distractions in the classroom. Further research is needed to better understand the long-term effects on academic performance. The aim of a smartphone ban should be to prevent the misuse of these devices, for example, as a tool for bullying classmates, and to prevent their negative impact on learning processes. Alongside the bans, responsible use of the technology and an understanding of its potential should be taught. Ideally, a level of media literacy is achieved that makes a smartphone ban superfluous.
Model for Designing Gamified Experiences Mediated by a Virtual Teaching and Learning Environment
Authors: Vera-Mora Glenda , Sanz Cecilia V. , Coma-Roselló Teresa , Baldassarri Sandra
Published: August 2024

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) face new challenges in regard to technological development in light of necessary pedagogical and didactic innovations in educational action. This article proposes a Technological–Pedagogical Gamification Model (MGTP) that guides the design of gamified educational practices in Virtual Teaching and Learning Environments (EVEAs). The MGTP proposal is based on theoretical cores of Pedagogy and Computer Science theories, as well as works related to gamified experiences in EVEA where the social, cognitive, and teaching presences were analyzed. This work also presents an initial validation of the MGTP through expert judgment, and its results are analyzed from both a qualitative (content analysis and comments) and quantitative (using the Content Validity Coefficient method) perspective. These results reveal a high level of acceptance of the model by experts that is corroborated by reliability tests (Cronbach’s alpha and split-half reliability test). The results facilitated the development of a final version of the model for its subsequent application and evaluation in university practice.
Plagiarism among Higher Education Students
Authors: Yavich Roman , Davidovitch Nitza
Published: August 2024

The problem of academic fraud has recently grown and includes plagiarism, the use of cellphones, copying from others, and writing by use of artificial intelligence (AI). The objective of this study was to examine the connection between academic dishonesty, class attendance, self-efficacy, and the use of digital tools. The study focused on higher-education students in Israel and included 121 participants. It was a mixed qualitative and quantitative study based on a structured questionnaire and on the previous literature. Studies showed that academic dishonesty increases when students fail to attend classes, have low self-efficacy, and attend classes remotely via communication platforms such as Zoom. In the current study, 50% of the participants reported that academic dishonesty was perceived as legitimate among their peer students. Preventive measures such as strengthening the students’ self-efficacy during tests and other stressful situations and emphasizing the importance of acquiring professional knowledge and skills may more effectively eliminate fraud than the common method of disciplining wrongdoers.