bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Releasing Chamomile Essential Oil from Inserts with Cellulose Agar and Microcrystalline Cellulose Agar Films Used in Biotextronics Systems for Lower Urinary Tract Inflammation Treatment
Authors: Frydrysiak Emilia , Śmigielski Krzysztof , Kunicka-Styczyńska Alina , Frydrysiak Michał
Published: August 2024

Lower urinary tract inflammation is a very common problem which occurs particularly in women. That is why the idea of a biotextronics system for preventive and supportive treatment came to be. The system is a kind of a therapeutic clothing in the form of underwear integrated with a four-layer pantiliner with biological active compounds (from chamomile essential oil) immobilized on the insert with a cellulose agar or microcrystalline cellulose agar film. In this research, the outer part of the insert was investigated for its ability to release compounds with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity under the temperature of the treatment (40 °C). The research was conducted on the day of the insert preparation (day 0) and also after 7, 14, 28, and 56 days to test the ability of the insert to be stored without changing its properties. The results showed that even after 56 days of storage, there are compounds released that are known to have antibacterial activity, such as α-bisabolol. The system requires further tests involving bacteria; however, chamomile essential oil seems to be good substrate for biotextronics systems for preventive and supportive treatment of lower urinary tract inflammations.
The Contribution of Nano-Alumina to Ultra-High-Performance Cement-Based Systems
Authors: Tsardaka Eirini-Chrysanthi , Tsampali Evangelia , Stefanidou Maria
Published: August 2024

In the last decades, nano-silica (NS), nano-alumina (NA), and nano-calcium oxide (NC) particles have been incorporated into cementitious materials, and it seems that each one of them contributes uniquely to the materials’ properties. This research explores the influence of each nanomaterial on the fresh properties of cement pastes and their compressive strength evolution over one year. Low proportions (1.5% by weight) of nanomaterials were added to cement pastes, and their fresh properties, such as heat of hydration and X-ray diffraction patterns in the first hours, were analyzed. The compressive strength and open porosity were also measured long-term. The acceleration of hydration heat in NA-cement pastes is linked to enhanced hydration product formation at early ages. Among the tested nanomaterials, NA increased compressive strength by 10% at later ages. Although the fresh properties of NC-cement pastes remained unaffected, their open porosity decreased by 54% at 28 days. In contrast, the increase in heat of hydration in NS-cement pastes did not result in significant strength improvement. Based on these findings, NA was selected for ultra-high-performance cement (UHPC)-based material use. Its incorporation not only preserved the ultra-high-performance (UHP) properties but also provided additional benefits such as an increase in compressive strength under a CO2 atmosphere. Through detailed analysis, this research establishes that nano-alumina incorporation optimizes the microstructural development and compressive strength of ultra-high-performance cement-based systems, presenting a novel advancement in enhancing the mechanical properties and durability of these materials under various environmental conditions.
An Evaluation of the Impact Effect on the Surface Microstructure and Its Induced Temperature Changes during Ultrasonic-Assisted Micro-Forging
Authors: Yin Zidong , Wan Weiqiang , Yang Ming
Published: August 2024

In the field of ultrasonic-assisted micro-forming, in addition to acoustic softening, impact effects also play a significant role, especially in terms of influencing the deformation behavior of surfaces, such as by generating more deformation on surface asperity. In this study, to understand the mechanisms involved in the effect of an impact, ultrasonic-assisted micro-forging tests were conducted on commercially pure copper, pure aluminum, and pure titanium. A method that can measure the increment in the temperature during ultrasonic vibration was developed. As a result, changes in the surface temperature of the material under the impact effect and acoustic softening were measured. It is indicated that, during ultrasonic vibration, the heat generated through acoustic softening is very limited and the main heat increase occurs after the impact effect. Once the impact effect occurs, the surface temperature increases with increasing amplitude. Nevertheless, for materials with different crystal structures, the influences of the impact effect are also different. The surfaces of copper and aluminum soften, creating more surface deformation, but the exact opposite effect is seen on a titanium surface. Observing the evolution of the microstructure on the material surface with EBSD demonstrates that the impact effect on FCC materials can reach deeper below the surface in terms of temperature diffusion compared to titanium. Meanwhile, the impact effect in the case of titanium causes the regeneration of twinning, which is reduced under the influence of the acoustic softening effect, consequently resulting in strain hardening.
Cavity-Tuned Exciton Dynamics in Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Monolayers
Authors: Shen Kaijun , Sun Kewei , Gelin Maxim F. , Zhao Yang
Published: August 2024

A fully quantum, numerically accurate methodology is presented for the simulation of the exciton dynamics and time-resolved fluorescence of cavity-tuned two-dimensional (2D) materials at finite temperatures. This approach was specifically applied to a monolayer WSe2 system. Our methodology enabled us to identify the dynamical and spectroscopic signatures of polaronic and polaritonic effects and to elucidate their characteristic timescales across a range of exciton–cavity couplings. The approach employed can be extended to simulation of various cavity-tuned 2D materials, specifically for exploring finite temperature nonlinear spectroscopic signals.
Optimal Synthesis of a Satellite Attitude Control System under Constraints on Control Torques and Velocities of Reaction Wheels
Authors: Moldabekov Meirbek , Aden Alisher , Orazaly Yerkin , Zhumabekova Nuriya
Published: August 2024

The problem of optimal synthesis of a nonlinear system’s control law parameters of satellite attitude control under constraints is considered. The maximum stability degree of a system is considered as an optimality criterion. The reaction wheels’ control moments and angular velocities achievable within the drives’ physical characteristics are considered as constraints. A linear model of the system converted from the original nonlinear model was used to solve the problem. The decomposition method, based on the transition from real time to relative time, is used to separate the tasks of optimality criterion maximization and constraints consideration. A method of synthesizing the optimal form of system transient process according to the maximum stability degree criterion is developed. An analytical method for determining the optimal values of control law parameters is proposed, based on the structural features of the linear differential equations system. A method that takes into account constraints on control moments and angular velocities of reaction wheels, based on transition scale from relative time to real time and its calculation algorithm, ensuring that conditions of all constraints are met, is developed. An example of solving the problem of optimal system synthesis is considered. The results demonstrate the effectiveness and simplicity of the proposed methods and algorithm for targeted selection of a system’s technical characteristics, taking into account constraints on reaction wheels’ maximum angular velocities and control moments values.
Atypical Plasma Cell Leukemia Mistaken for Acute Leukemia: A Case Report
Authors: Seili-Bekafigo Irena , Torlakovic Emina , Grenko Malnar Tajana , Damić Marija Stanić , Prka Željko , Matušan Ilijaš Koviljka , Hadžisejdić Ita
Published: August 2024

The patient we present here had many clinical, morphological, and laboratory findings characteristic of acute leukemia. During the course of the disease, the diagnosis changed from acute leukemia to chronic small B-cell lymphoproliferative disease, a blastoid variant of mantle cell lymphoma, and finally to atypical plasma cell leukemia. Atypical plasma cell leukemia is a rare condition with aggressive biological behavior. Our patient relapsed a short time after achieving complete remission, in spite of aggressive therapy and autologous stem cell transplantation. During relapse, it was possible to morphologically identify malignant cells as being of plasma cell origin, although immature and atypical. Atypical plasma cell leukemia presents a diagnostic challenge as it may mimic other neoplasms both morphologically and clinically. It is also recognized that plasma cell neoplasm immunophenotype may not be entirely specific for its lineage where common diagnostic biomarkers are applied by immunohistochemistry or flow cytometry. Where this is the case, only focused investigation for plasma cell lineage will be more informative. This patient has unusual clinical presentation, a nondescript morphology of the circulating plasma cells, as well as an immunophenotype, detected by the initial panels used for flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry, that was not entirely specific for plasma cells. Such cases present a good reminder of the diagnostic complexity of atypical plasma cell leukemia and emphasize that plasma cell differentiation needs to be interrogated in cases where the initial work-up shows unusual results.
Performance and Enhanced Efficiency Induced by Cold Plasma on SAPO-34 Membranes for CO2 and CH4 Mixtures
Authors: Gorky Fnu , Storr Vashanti , Jones Grace , Nambo Apolo , Jasinski Jacek B. , Carreon Maria L.
Published: August 2024

In this study, we investigate the influence of cold-plasma-induced enhanced performance and efficiency of SAPO-34 membranes in the separation of CO2 and CH4 mixtures. Placing the herein presented research in a broader context, we aim to address the question of whether cold plasma can significantly impact the membrane performance. We subjected SAPO-34 membranes to plasma mild disturbances and analyzed their performance in separating CO2 and CH4. Our findings reveal a notable enhancement in membrane efficiency and sustained performance when exposed to cold plasma. The pulsed plasma separation displayed improved structural integrity, and the experimental results indicated that the linear structure of CO₂ facilitates the distortion of electron clouds in response to the electric field, a property known as polarizability, which aids in effective separation. Plausible mechanistic insight indicated that the intermolecular forces facilitated an integral role in SAPO-34 membranes exhibiting strong electrostatic interactions. In conclusion, our research highlights the potential of cold plasma as a promising technique for improving the performance of SAPO-34 membranes in gas mixtures at atmospheric pressures, providing valuable insights for optimizing membrane technology in carbon capture and gas separation applications.
Stability of Crystal Plasticity Constitutive Models: Observations in Numerical Studies and Analytical Justification
Authors: Shveykin Alexey , Trusov Peter , Romanov Kirill
Published: August 2024

In designing accurate constitutive models, it is important to investigate the stability of the response obtained by means of these models to perturbations in operator and input data because the properties of materials at different structural-scale levels and thermomechanical influences are stochastic in nature. In this paper, we present the results of an application of the method developed by the authors to a numerical study of the stability of multilevel models to different perturbations: perturbations of the history of influences, initial condition perturbations, and parametric operator perturbations. We analyze a two-level constitutive model of the alpha-titanium polycrystal with a hexagonal closed packed lattice under different loading modes. The numerical results obtained here indicate that the model is stable to perturbations of any type. For the first time, an analytical justification of the stability of the considered constitutive model by means of the first Lyapunov method is proposed, and thus the impossibility of instability in models with modified viscoplastic Hutchinson relations is proved.
A Broadband MS-Based Circularly Polarized Antenna Array Using Sequential-Phase Feeding Network
Authors: Pham-Duy Hung , Nguyen-Tien Dat , Nguyen-Ngoc Thanh , Tran-Viet Duc-Nguyen , Nguyen-Dinh Thai , Pham Tuyen Danh , Tran-Huy Hung
Published: August 2024

This paper introduces the design of a circularly polarized metasurface-based antenna array for C-band satellite applications that owns broadband operation and high gain characteristics. The single radiating element comprises a Y-shape patch and an above-placed 2 × 2 unit-cell metasurface. Further improvement in operating bandwidth and broadside gain is achieved by arranging four single elements in a 2 × 2 configuration and a sequential-phase feed network. A prototype has been fabricated and measured to validate the feasibility of the proposed antenna array. The measured operating bandwidth is 20% (4.50–5.50 GHz), which is an overlap between a −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 29.8% (4.50–5.99 GHz) and a 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth of 20% (4.50–5.50 GHz). Across this operating band, the peak broadside gain is 10.5 dBi. Compared with the recently published studies, the proposed array is a prominent design for producing a wide operating bandwidth and relatively high gains while maintaining the overall compact dimensions.
COPD Pathogenesis and Alterations in the Oral, Lung, and Gut Microbiomes
Authors: Asai Nobuhiro , Ohkuni Yoshihiro , Kato Hideo , Hagihara Mao , Mikamo Hiroshige , Kaneko Norihiro
Published: August 2024

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a respiratory and systemic disease affecting more than 300 million people globally every year, and it also becomes a substantial economic burden. COPD is commonly comorbid with various underlying diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, etc. It has been shown that statins can improve a significant decline in pulmonary function among COPD patients due to their pleiomorphic effect. Some systematic reviews also reported that statins reduced the risk of COPD-related events such as cancer and cardiovascular events, eventually resulting in more favorable outcomes than for non-statin user COPD patients. However, the physiological mechanism is still elucidated. Recently, it has been reported that statins influence the gut microbial composition with increased relative abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and act with pleiomorphic effects such as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects through modulating gut dysbiosis. We described this review to focus on whether statins can be a useful preventive option for COPD.
Two-Year Study on the Intra-Individual Dynamics of Gut Microbiota and Short-Chain Fatty Acids Profiles in Healthy Adults
Authors: Senina Anastasia , Markelova Maria , Khusnutdinova Dilyara , Siniagina Maria , Kupriyanova Olga , Synbulatova Gulnaz , Kayumov Airat , Boulygina Eugenia , Grigoryeva Tatiana
Published: August 2024

While the gut microbiome has been intensively investigated for more than twenty years already, its role in various disorders remains to be unraveled. At the same time, questions about what changes in the gut microbiota can be considered as normal or pathological and whether communities are able to recover after exposure to negative factors (diseases, medications, environmental factors) are still unclear. Here, we describe changes in the gut microbiota composition and the content of short-chain fatty acids in adult healthy volunteers (n = 15) over a 24 month-period. Intraindividual variability in gut microbial composition was 40%, whereas the short chain fatty acids profile remained relatively stable (2-year variability 20%, inter-individual 26%). The changes tend to accumulate over time. Nevertheless, both short-term and long-term changes in the gut microbiome composition were significantly smaller within individuals than interindividual differences (two-year interindividual variability was 75%). Seasonal changes in gut microbiota were found more often in autumn and spring involving the content of minor representatives (less than 1.5% of the community in average) in the phyla Actinobacteriota, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria.
Enrichment of Aquatic Xylan-Degrading Microbial Communities
Authors: Gaenssle Aline Lucie Odette , Bertran-Llorens Salvador , Deuss Peter Joseph , Jurak Edita
Published: August 2024

The transition towards a sustainable society involves the utilization of lignocellulosic biomass as a renewable feedstock for materials, fuel, and base chemicals. Lignocellulose consists of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, forming a complex, recalcitrant matrix where efficient enzymatic saccharification is pivotal for accessing its valuable components. This study investigated microbial communities from brackish Lauwersmeer Lake, in The Netherlands, as a potential source of xylan-degrading enzymes. Environmental sediment samples were enriched with wheat arabinoxylan (WAX) and beechwood glucuronoxylan (BEX), with enrichment on WAX showing higher bacterial growth and complete xylan degradation compared to BEX. Metagenomic sequencing revealed communities consisting almost entirely of bacteria (>99%) and substantial shifts in composition during the enrichment. The first generation of seven-day enrichments on both xylans led to a high accumulation of Gammaproteobacteria (49% WAX, 84% BEX), which were largely replaced by Alphaproteobacteria (42% WAX, 69% BEX) in the fourth generation. Analysis of the protein function within the sequenced genomes showed elevated levels of genes associated with the carbohydrate catabolic process, specifically targeting arabinose, xylose, and xylan, indicating an adaptation to the primary monosaccharides present in the carbon source. The data open up the possibility of discovering novel xylan-degrading proteins from other sources aside from the thoroughly studied Bacteroidota.
Effect of Pre-Sulfidization on the Octadecyl Amine Adsorption on the Smithsonite Surface and Its Flotation
Authors: Wang Mengtao , Wei Haobin , Jin Saizhen , Zhang Guofan
Published: August 2024

The low-grade zinc oxide ore was sulfidized to increase the efficiency of flotation, but the effect of pre-sulfidization on the adsorption mechanism of octadecyl amine (ODA) on the smithsonite surface is currently unclear. In this study, the effect of pre-sulfidization on the adsorption mechanism of ODA and the flotation behavior was studied using smithsonite and pre-sulfidized smithsonite as the samples by zeta potential, contact angle measurement, total organic carbon analyzer (TOC), quartz microcrystalline balance (QCM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and micro-flotation tests. Micro-flotation tests showed that the pretreatment of sulfidization could improve the floatability of smithsonite. Zeta potential and contact angle measurements demonstrated that pre-sulfidization could favor the adsorption of ODA, which is further confirmed by the adsorption tests of ODA using TOC and QCM. Furthermore, FTIR and XPS analysis showed that pre-sulfidization changes the adsorption mode of ODA, changing it from physical adsorption to chemical adsorption. These results suggested that the favorable effect of pre-sulfidization on the adsorption of ODA and the flotation of smithsonite might provide important guidance for industrial application.
Sandwich d/f Heterometallic Complexes [(Ln(hfac)3)2M(acac)3] (Ln = La, Pr, Sm, Dy and M = Co; Ln = La and M = Ru)
Authors: Grechi Cristian , Carlotto Silvia , Guelfi Massimo , Samaritani Simona , Armelao Lidia , Labella Luca
Published: August 2024

Sandwich d/f heterometallic complexes [(Ln(hfac)3)2M(acac)3] (Ln = La, Pr, Sm, Dy and M = Co; Ln = La and M = Ru) were prepared in strictly anhydrous conditions reacting the formally unsaturated fragment [Ln(hfac)3] and [M(acac)3] in a 2-to-1 molar ratio. These heterometallic complexes are highly sensitive to moisture. Spectroscopic observation revealed that on hydrolysis, these compounds yield dinuclear heterometallic compounds [Ln(hfac)3M(acac)3], prepared here for comparison purposes only. Quantum mechanical calculations supported, on the one hand, the hypothesis on the geometrical arrangement obtained from ATR-IR and NMR spectra and, on the other hand, helped to rationalize the spontaneous hydrolysis reaction.
Development of a Gold Nanoparticle-Based Sensor for Authentication of Organic Milk Based on Differential Levels of miRNA
Authors: Lopez-Benitez Karelmar , Alcazar-Gonzalez Patricia , el qassim Loubna Abou , Fernandez-Argüelles Mª Teresa , Vicente Fernando , Royo Luis J. , Menendez-Miranda Mario
Published: August 2024

Dairy production systems significantly impact environmental sustainability, animal welfare, and human health. Intensive farming maximizes output through high-input practices, raising concerns about environmental degradation, animal welfare, and health risks from antibiotic residues. Conversely, organic farming emphasizes sustainable practices, animal welfare, and minimal synthetic inputs, potentially enhancing biodiversity, soil health, and milk quality. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), non-coding RNAs regulating gene expression, are promising biomarkers due to their response to various conditions. In this study, miRNAs bta-miR-103 and bta-miR-155, which are abundant in milk from pasture-fed cows, were selected. Additionally, bta-miR-215, which is abundant in milk fat from intensive systems, was also studied, in order to differentiate dairy production systems. A novel, cost-effective gold nanoparticle (AuNP)-based sensor was developed for miRNA detection, leveraging the unique plasmonic properties of AuNPs for visual detection. The method involves functionalizing AuNPs with complementary RNA probes and detecting miRNA-induced aggregation through colorimetric changes. This rapid, results in 30 min, and sensitive, visual limit of detection of 200 nM, assay requires minimal instrumentation and can be easily interpreted, offering significant advantages for field implementation in characterizing dairy production systems. This study demonstrates the successful application of this sensor in detecting miRNAs in 350 nM miRNA spiked raw milk, highlighting its potential for in situ dairy industry applications.
The Association between Individual Food Groups, Limbic System White Matter Tracts, and Episodic Memory: Initial Data from the Aiginition Longitudinal Biomarker Investigation of Neurodegeneration (ALBION) Study
Authors: Christidi Foteini , Drouka Archontoula , Brikou Dora , Mamalaki Eirini , Ntanasi Eva , Karavasilis Efstratios , Velonakis Georgios , Angelopoulou Georgia , Tsapanou Angeliki , Gu Yian , Yannakoulia Mary , Scarmeas Nikolaos
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: Many studies link food intake with clinical cognitive outcomes, but evidence for brain biomarkers, such as memory-related limbic white matter (WM) tracts, is limited. We examined the association between food groups, limbic WM tracts integrity, and memory performance in community-dwelling individuals. (2) Methods: We included 117 non-demented individuals (ALBION study). Verbal and visual episodic memory tests were administered, and a composite z-score was calculated. Diffusion tensor imaging tractography was applied for limbic WM tracts (fornix-FX, cingulum bundle-CB, uncinate fasciculus-UF, hippocampal perforant pathway zone-hPPZ). Food intake was evaluated through four 24-h recalls. We applied linear regression models adjusted for demographics and energy intake. (3) Results: We found significant associations between (a) higher low-to-moderate alcohol intake and higher FX fractional anisotropy (FA), (b) higher full-fat dairy intake and lower hPPZ FA, and (c) higher red meat and cold cuts intake and lower hPPZ FA. None of the food groups was associated with memory performance. (4) Conclusions: Despite non-significant associations between food groups and memory, possibly due to participants’ cognitive profile and/or compensatory mechanisms, the study documented a possible beneficial role of low-to-moderate alcohol and a harmful role of full-fat dairy and red meat and cold cuts on limbic WM tracts.
Impact of CYP1A2 Genotypes on the Ergogenic Effects and Subjective Mood States of Caffeine Ingestion in Resistance-Trained Women
Authors: Prather Jessica M. , Florez Christine M. , Vargas Amie , Soto Bella , Ross Audrey , Harrison Abby , Secrest Ariane H. , Willoughby Darryn S. , Kutter Sydney , Taylor Lem W.
Published: August 2024

Caffeine’s metabolism is determined by CYP1A2 genotypes: AC/CC (SLOW) and AA (FAST). This trial evaluated CYP1A2 genotypes’ impact on exercise and cognitive effects in 36 resistance-trained females assessed under placebo (PL) and caffeine (6 mg/kg bw anhydrous caffeine-CAF) conditions, before ingestion and throughout the session. 23andMe® (San Francisco, CA, USA) determined genotypes using saliva. Data were analyzed using two-way RMANOVA and paired-samples t-tests (p < 0.05). A significant main effect for genotype existed for leg press repetitions to failure (RTF) for CAF (p = 0.038), with the FAST group performing more repetitions than the SLOW (p = 0.027). There was a significant condition x genotype interaction for the subjective outcome index score (p = 0.045), with significant differences for time (p < 0.01) and between genotype (p < 0.001). Follow-up analysis revealed a higher total score (p = 0.028) following CAF for the FAST group and a lower total score (p < 0.01) in the SLOW group. Dizziness was reported following CAF in the SLOW group (p = 0.014; Cohen’s d = 0.725). Aside from leg press RTF, subjective outcome index score, and dizziness, the genotype groups experienced similar responses to resistance exercise performance and subjective mood states following caffeine ingestion.
Promising Effects of Novel Supplement Formulas in Preventing Skin Aging in 3D Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Punzo Angela , Perillo Matteo , Silla Alessia , Malaguti Marco , Hrelia Silvana , Barardo Diogo , Caliceti Cristiana , Lorenzini Antonello
Published: August 2024

Dietary intervention is considered a safe preventive strategy to slow down aging. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of a commercially available supplement and six simpler formulations against DNA damage in 3D human keratinocytes. The ingredients used are well known and were combined into various formulations to test their potential anti-aging properties. Firstly, we determined the formulations’ safe concentration by evaluating cytotoxicity and cell viability through spectrophotometric assays. We then examined the presence of tumor p53 binding protein 1 and phosphorylated histone H2AX foci, which are markers of genotoxicity. The foci count revealed that a 24-h treatment with the supplement did not induce DNA damage, and significantly reduced DNA damage in cells exposed to neocarzinostatin for 2 h. Three of the simpler formulations showed similar results. Moreover, the antioxidant activity was tested using a recently developed whole cell-based chemiluminescent bioassay; results showed that a 24-h treatment with the supplement and three simpler formulations significantly reduced intracellular H2O2 after pro-oxidant injury, thus suggesting their possible antiaging effect. This study’s originality lies in the use of a 3D human keratinocyte cell model and a combination of natural ingredients targeting DNA damage and oxidative stress, providing a robust evaluation of their anti-aging potential.
Creatine Improves Total Sleep Duration Following Resistance Training Days versus Non-Resistance Training Days among Naturally Menstruating Females
Authors: Aguiar Bonfim Cruz Ariel J. , Brooks Samantha J. , Kleinkopf Katelyn , Brush C. J. , Irwin Gena L. , Schwartz Malayna G. , Candow Darren G. , Brown Ann F.
Published: August 2024

Females historically experience sleep disturbances and overall poor sleep compared to males. Creatine has been proposed to impact sleep; however, the effects are not well known. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of creatine supplementation on sleep among naturally menstruating females. Twenty-one participants completed a double-blind, randomized controlled trial in which they consumed 5 g creatine + 5 g maltodextrin or placebo, 10 g maltodextrin, daily for 6 weeks. Participants completed resistance training 2x/week using the TONAL® (Tonal Systems Inc., San Francisco, CA, USA) at-home gym. Pre- and post-testing assessed body composition, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), dietary intake, and muscular strength. Sleep was assessed nightly using an ŌURA® (Oulu, Finland) ring. Compared to the placebo group, those consuming creatine experienced significant increases in total sleep on training days (p = 0.013). No significant changes in chronic sleep and PSQI (pre–post) were observed. There was a significant increase in TONAL® strength score over time (p < 0.001), with no between-group differences. Participants reduced their total calorie (kcal) (p = 0.039), protein (g/kg) (p = 0.009), carbohydrate (g/kg) (p = 0.023), and fat (g) (p = 0.036) intake over time. Creatine supplementation increases sleep duration on resistance training days in naturally menstruating females.
Dietary Intake, Body Composition, and Nutritional Knowledge of Elite Handball Players
Authors: Arnaoutis Giannis , Alepoudea Maria , Tambalis Konstantinos D. , Sidossis Labros S.
Published: August 2024

Nutrition affects both body composition and, consequently, athletic performance. Only a few studies have assessed the nutritional behavior and knowledge of elite players. The present study aimed to assess the dietary intake, body composition, and nutritional knowledge of elite handball players. Thirty-nine handball players (age: 23.2 ± 2.7 years, weight: 88.2 ± 10.1 kg, height: 1.87 ± 0.07 m, and years of training: 13 ± 2) participated in the study. The athletes completed a set of anthropometric measurements, a 24 h food recall, and a translated edition of Abridged Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire (A-NSKQ). The average body fat percentage was 16.7 ± 3.8%, while the average fat free mass was 73.9 ± 8.5 kg. The athletes’ average daily energy intake was 2606.6 ± 756 kcal, while the average daily intake for carbohydrates, proteins, and fats was 243.85 ± 107.79 g [2.8 ± 1.3 g/kg BW/d—37.2 ± 10.5% of Total Energy Intake (TEI)], 131.59 ± 53.28 g (1.51 ± 0.7 g/kg BW/d—20.3 ± 6.9% of TEI), and 117.65 ± 40.52 g (40.9 ± 9.9% of TEI), respectively. For iron, calcium, and vitamin D, the average daily intakes were 19.33 ± 10.22 mg, 1287.7 ± 676.42 mg, and 3.22 ± 3.57 mcg respectively. The average success rate on the A-NSKQ was only 38.5 ± 10.7% out of 100. Elite handball players exhibit inadequate dietary intake and sports nutrition knowledge. Nutritional education should be a primary concern towards the amelioration of their athletic performance.
Non-Linear Association of Dietary Polyamines with the Risk of Incident Dementia: Results from Population-Based Cohort of the UK Biobank
Authors: Qian Mingxia , Zhang Na , Zhang Rui , Liu Min , Wu Yani , Lu Ying , Li Furong , Zheng Liqiang
Published: August 2024

Natural polyamines, including spermidine (SPD), spermine (SPM) and putrescine (PUT), are evolutionarily conserved endogenous molecules crucially involved in central cellular processes. Their physiological importance may extend to the maintenance of cognitive function during aging. However, limited population-based epidemiological studies have explored the link between dietary polyamines and dementia risk. This study was a prospective analysis of 77,092 UK Biobank participants aged ≥ 60 years without dementia at baseline. We used Cox proportional hazard regression models to explore the associations between dietary polyamines and the risk of dementia, and restricted cubic splines to test the non-linear relationships. During a median follow-up of 12 years, 1087 incidents of all-cause dementia cases occurred, including 450 Alzheimer’s disease (AD) cases and 206 vascular dementia (VD) cases. The fully adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for the upper fourth quintile of dietary SPD, in comparison with the lowest quintile of intake, were 0.68 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.66–0.83) for the risk of all-cause dementia, 0.62 (95% CI: 0.45–0.85) for AD and 0.56 (95% CI: 0.36–0.88) for VD, respectively. A 26% reduction in dementia risk [HR: 0.74, (95% CI: 0.61–0.89)] and a 47% reduction in AD [HR: 0.53, (95%CI: 0.39–0.72)] were observed comparing the third with the lowest quintiles of dietary SPM. Dietary PUT was only associated with a reduced risk of all-cause dementia in the fourth quintile [HR (95% CI): 0.82 (0.68–0.99)]. Reduced risk was not found to be significant across all quintiles. There were ‘U’-shaped relationships found between dietary polyamines and all-cause dementia, AD and VD. Stratification by genetic predisposition showed no significant effect modification. Optimal intake of polyamines was linked to a decreased risk of dementia, with no modification by genetic risk. This potentially suggests cognitive benefits of dietary natural polyamines in humans.
An Interdisciplinary Intervention Based on Prescription of Physical Activity, Diet, and Positive Mental Health to Promote Healthy Lifestyle in Patients with Obesity: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Prats-Arimon Marta , Puig-Llobet Montserrat , Barceló-Peiró Oriol , Ribot-Domènech Ivet , Vilalta-Sererols Cristina , Fontecha-Valero Bárbara , Heras-Ojeda Mati , Agüera Zaida , Lluch-Canut Teresa , Moreno-Poyato Antonio , Moreno-Arroyo Mª Carmen
Published: August 2024

This study used a multimodal approach to address the issue of obesity among individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 30 and 40 residing in a rural region of north-east Spain. A pretest–posttest model was employed in a clinical trial design, comparing an intervention group with a control group. The intervention, which lasted for a period of nine months, was based on three main strategies: the prescription of physical activity, the promotion of healthy nutritional habits, and the management of emotional wellbeing through Positive Mental Health (PMH). A variety of assessment tools were employed, including the CLASS-AF scale and a stress test for physical activity levels; advanced anthropometry and blood analysis for metabolic and body composition variables; a Mediterranean diet adherence questionnaire for nutritional habits; and a PMH multifactorial questionnaire for the assessment of emotional management. The results revealed significant improvements in the level of physical activity and adherence to the Mediterranean diet in favor of the intervention group, where 89.4% (n = 17) of the participants went from being not very active/sedentary to being active. Also, adherence to the Mediterranean diet improved with a mean increase of 2.2 points on the scale [mean: 10.5 (CI 95%: 9.90, 11.09)]. In addition, significant reductions in body fat [mean: −2.50 kg (CI 95%: −3.56, −1.44)] and free fat mass [mean: −3.38% (IC 95%: −4.34, −2.41), along with decreased cholesterol levels (196 vs. 182 mg/dL), were observed, suggesting a decrease in cardiovascular and metabolic risk. In conclusion, this multimodal intervention was effective at improving the lifestyle of people with obesity and reducing their cardiovascular and metabolic risk. The combination of interventions focused on physical activity, diet, Positive Mental Health, and metabolic changes and were perceived as a comprehensive and complementary strategy in obesity care. These findings highlight the importance of approaching this condition from multiple perspectives to ensure optimal health outcomes.
Effect of Fermented Soybean (FSB) Supplementation on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Authors: Tan Eugenie Sin Sing , Zaman Rahela , Memon Muhammad Akbar , Tan Chung Keat
Published: August 2024

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a prevalent chronic condition affecting the well-being of both adults and children in general medical practice. Research on the effects of fermented soybean (SB) supplementation in managing GERD is relatively new, with limited studies available. The existing research often lacks sufficient dosing regimens and study durations to differentiate between transient placebo effects and sustained benefits. In this study, the beneficial effects of FSB supplementation were investigated in 110 voluntary participants (NCT06524271). The participants were required to take 1 g of FSB supplement once daily for 12 weeks. GERD symptoms were evaluated using the Reflux Disease Questionnaire (RDQ), while inflammatory markers, including interleukin-4 (IL-4), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-8 (IL-8), were measured to assess inflammation. The Quality of Life in Reflux and Dyspepsia (QOLRAD) questionnaire was used to evaluate participants’ quality of life. The results indicated that FSB supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) alleviated heartburn and regurgitation symptoms and reduced levels of IL-4, IL-6, and IL-8, indicating a notable anti-inflammatory effect. Additionally, significant (p < 0.05) improvements were observed in QOLRAD scores, particularly in vitality, emotional distress, and physical/social functioning. Collectively, our findings support the use of FSB as an adjuvant approach in managing GERD, with notable improvements in patients’ quality of life.
Weight Stigma among Undergraduate Healthcare Students: A Vignette Study
Authors: André Wedsley dos Santos Silva , Resende Thainá Richelli Oliveira , de Carvalho Pedro Henrique Berbert
Published: August 2024

Weight stigma is described as prejudice and discrimination concerning body weight. People stigmatized by their body weight report worse physical and mental health and, consequently, poor psychosocial functioning. Research has shown a high prevalence of weight stigma among health professionals. However, less is known about weight stigma among healthcare undergraduate students. In this vignette study, we assessed weight stigma in 217 healthcare students, who filled sociodemographic and weight stigma measures, and read one of three vignettes at random, each one with a hypothetical patient which differs only in terms of body weight (underweight, healthy weight, and overweight). Then, participants answered ten questions/statements about patient characteristics described in the vignette to assess the influence of body weight on stigmatizing beliefs. Weight stigma was found in 39.44% of healthcare students. Moreover, weight stigma was higher among men, healthy weight people, and Physical Therapy students. This experimental study showed more negative attitudes in participants exposed to the patient with overweight and underweight vignettes compared to those exposed to the healthy weight patient vignette. Due to the known impacts of weight stigma, efforts are needed to address this issue during the training of healthcare undergraduate students.
Mapping Topic Evolution across the 40-Year-Old Long-Term Ecological Research MareChiara Site in the Gulf of Naples, Italy
Authors: Russo Luca , Murano Carola , D’Alelio Domenico
Published: August 2024

The forty-year-old Long-Term Ecological Research MareChiara (LTER-MC) program started on 26 January 1984, with fortnightly oceanographic sampling until 1991 and then, from 1995, with weekly sampling up to the present time. LTER-MC produced >150 publications that have been cited by thousands of other studies. In this scoping review, we analyzed this corpus using a semantic approach based on topic modeling, a machine-driven procedure to identify and map topics and their interactions. Understanding the causes behind the evolution of scientific topics, their emergence, splitting, hybridization, or merging within a scientific community is an important step in science policy in managing collaborative research and bringing it into the future. Across different topics, mainly represented by studies on Natural History, Biodiversity, Phenology, Life Cycles, and Community Ecology, the LTER-MC work expanded the knowledge on planktonic organisms, describing in detail their lifestyles and delineating their relationships with environmental conditions. In presenting these results, the potential strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats connected to the overall scientific dimension of LTER-MC are discussed. Finally, the upcoming effort is envisioned in reinforcing internal collaboration to integrate basic and applied research around scientific investigations suitable for establishing a stronger interaction between science and policy, as indicated by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.
Predicting Resistance to Immunotherapy in Melanoma, Glioblastoma, Renal, Stomach and Bladder Cancers by Machine Learning on Immune Profiles
Authors: Mestrallet Guillaume
Published: August 2024

Strategies for tackling cancer involve surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICB). However, the effectiveness of ICB remains constrained, prompting the need for a proactive strategy to foresee treatment responses and resistances. This study undertook an analysis across diverse cancer patient cohorts (including melanoma, clear cell renal carcinoma, glioblastoma, bladder, and stomach cancers) subjected to various immune checkpoint blockade treatments. Surprisingly, our findings unveiled that over 38% of patients demonstrated resistance and persistent disease progression despite undergoing ICB intervention. To unravel the intricacies of resistance, we scrutinized the immune profiles of cancer patients experiencing ongoing disease progression and resistance post-ICB therapy. These profiles delineated multifaceted defects, including compromised macrophage, monocyte, and T cell responses, impaired antigen presentation, aberrant regulatory T cell (Tregs) responses, and an elevated expression of immunosuppressive and G protein-coupled receptor molecules (TGFB1, IL2RA, IL1B, EDNRB, ADORA2A, SELP, and CD276). Building upon these insights into resistance profiles, we harnessed machine learning algorithms to construct models predicting the response and resistance to ICB and developed the accompanying software. While previous work on glioblastoma with only one type of algorithm had an accuracy of 0.82, we managed to develop 20 models that provided estimates of future events of resistance or response in five cancer types, with accuracies ranging between 0.79 and 1, based on their distinct immune characteristics. In conclusion, our approach advocates for the personalized application of immunotherapy in cancer patients based on patient-specific attributes and computational models.
Generalized Finslerian Wormhole Models in f(R,T) Gravity
Authors: Yashwanth B. R. , Narasimhamurthy S. K. , Nekouee Z.
Published: August 2024

This article explores wormhole solutions within the framework of Finsler geometry and the modified gravity theory. Modifications in gravitational theories, such as f(R,T) gravity, propose alternatives that potentially avoid the exotic requirements. We derive the field equations from examining the conditions for Finslerian wormhole existence and investigate geometrical and material characteristics of static wormholes using a polynomial shape function in Finslerian space–time. Furthermore, we address energy condition violations for different Finsler parameters graphically. We conclude that the proposed models, which assume a constant redshift function, satisfy the necessary geometric constraints and energy condition violations indicating the presence of exotic matter at the wormhole throat. We also discuss the anisotropy factors of the wormhole models. The results are validated through analytical solutions and 3-D visualizations, contributing to the broader understanding of wormholes in Finsler-modified gravity contexts.
Geohelminths: Use in the Treatment of Selected Human Diseases
Authors: Szuba Magdalena , Stachera Weronika , Piwko Adrianna , Misiak Marianna , Rutkevich Renata , Sota Marcin , Atrushi Lana , Bennacer Leyla , Nzekea Deborah , Wu Yen Ching , Kim Arya Taesung , Yu Subin , Ribeiro Nash , Dybicz Monika
Published: August 2024

Research on the therapeutic use of parasites has been ongoing since the development of the “hygiene hypothesis”. Parasites can stimulate the Th2-dependent response and suppress the Th1-dependent response, which is intensified in many diseases, especially allergic and autoinflammatory ones. In this review, we present the types of parasites used in helminth therapy and the range of diseases in which they may be useful. We also present the results of clinical trials conducted so far, which confirm the safety of such therapy and provide promising outcomes.
An Investigation on the Relationship between Dust Emission and Air Flow as Well as Particle Size with a Novel Containment Two-Chamber Setup
Authors: Wirth Steffen , Schöler Martin , Brügmann Jonas , Leopold Claudia S.
Published: August 2024

In the present study with a novel two-chamber setup (TCS) for dustiness investigations, the relationship between pressure differences as well as air velocities and the resulting dust emissions is investigated. The dust emissions of six particle size fractions of acetaminophen at pressure differences between 0 and 12 Pa are examined. The results show that both simulated and measured air velocities increase with increasing pressure difference. Dust emissions decrease significantly with increasing pressure difference and air velocity. Fine particles cause higher dust emissions than coarse particles. A high goodness of fit is obtained with exponential and quadratic functions to describe the relationship between pressure difference and dust emission, indicating that even moderate increases in pressure may lead to a reduction in the emission. Average air velocities within the TCS simulated with Computational Fluid Dynamics are between 0.09 and 0.37 m/s, whereas those measured experimentally are between 0.09 and 0.41 m/s, both ranges corresponding to the recommended values for effective particle separation in containment systems. These results underline the ability of the novel TCS to control pressure and airflow, which is essential for reliable dust emission measurements and thus provide support for further scientific and industrial applications.
Rethinking of Underwater Image Restoration Based on Circularly Polarized Light
Authors: Wang Chao , Wu Zhiyang , Han Zexiong , Wang Junguang , Hu Haofeng , Li Xiaobo
Published: August 2024

Polarimetric imaging technology plays a crucial role in de-scattering, particularly in the field of underwater image restoration. Circularly polarized light (or the underlying circular polarization memory effect) has been proven to better preserve the polarization characteristics of detected light. Utilizing circularly polarized light as illumination can further enhance the effectiveness of polarization de-scattering techniques. After rethinking the advantages of circularly polarized light, this paper proposes a new method for underwater polarimetric imaging restoration that leverages the pre-processing of polarized sub-images and the correlation of polarization characteristics (i.e., the angle of polarization and degree of polarization). Additionally, to address the challenge of selecting scattering light parameters due to uneven light fields in target scenes, an intensity adjustment factor search algorithm is designed. This algorithm eliminates the need for the manual selection of scattering light parameters, effectively solving the problem of uneven illumination in restoration results. A series of experiments demonstrate that, compared to traditional algorithms, the proposed method offers superior detail restoration and higher robustness.