bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma level of alpha-synuclein oligomers as a biomarker for isolated rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder diagnosis and progression: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Ying Chao , Zhang Hui , Wang Ting , Li Yuan , Mao Wei , Hu Songnian , Zhao Lifang , Cai Yanning
Published: August 2024

Background

Alpha-synuclein oligomers (o-α-syn) are pivotal in the pathogenesis of α-synucleinopathy. Isolated rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) serves as an early indicator of the disease, offering insights into disease mechanisms and early intervention. Nevertheless, the diagnostic and predictive potential of o-α-syn in iRBD remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the plasma levels of o-α-syn in patients and investigate their utility as biomarkers for diagnosis of and predicting phenoconversion in iRBD.

Methods

A total of 143 participants, including 77 polysomnography-confirmed iRBD patients and 66 normal controls (NC), were recruited for this longitudinal observational study. Baseline clinical assessments and plasma collection were conducted for all iRBD patients, with 72 of them undergoing regularly prospective follow-up assessments for parkinsonism or dementia. Plasma levels of o-α-syn were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and were compared between groups using a general linear model adjusted for age and sex. The diagnostic performance of plasma o-α-syn in iRBD was evaluated by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) with 95% CI. Cox regression analysis and Kaplan–Meier survival curves were employed to assess the predictive value of plasma o-α-syn for phenoconversion in iRBD.

Results

Plasma o-α-syn levels did not exhibit statistically significant differences among iRBD converter patients, iRBD nonconverter patients, and NC. The AUC for distinguishing NC from iRBD was 0.52 (95% CI: 0.42–0.62, p = 0.682). Spearman correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between plasma o-α-syn levels and MOCA scores in the iRBD group (p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses indicated that iRBD patients with cognitive decline (p = 0.058) and depressive symptoms (p = 0.017) had notably lower o-α-syn levels compared to those without such symptoms. Over a median follow-up period of 5.83 years, 26 iRBD patients developed neurodegenerative synucleinopathies. Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier survival curve analyses indicated that plasma level of o-α-syn lacked a predictive value for disease conversion in iRBD patients.

Conclusion

Despite a potential role in the pathophysiology of iRBD, o-α-syn are not appropriate biomarkers for diagnosing or predicting disease progression. While this study offers insights into the pathogenesis of iRBD and neurodegenerative synucleinopathies, further large-scale longitudinal studies are warranted to validate these findings.
Unraveling cancer progression pathways and phytochemical therapeutic strategies for its management
Authors: Sharma Vikas , Chaudhary Anis Ahmad , Bawari Sweta , Gupta Saurabh , Mishra Richa , Khan Salah-Ud-Din , Ali Mohamed A. M. , Shahid Mohammad , Srivastava Saurabh , Verma Devvrat , Gupta Arti , Kumar Sanjay , Kumar Sandeep
Published: August 2024

Cancer prevention is currently envisioned as a molecular-based approach to prevent carcinogenesis in pre-cancerous stages, i.e., dysplasia and carcinoma in situ. Cancer is the second-leading cause of mortality worldwide, and a more than 61% increase is expected by 2040. A detailed exploration of cancer progression pathways, including the NF-kβ signaling pathway, Wnt-B catenin signaling pathway, JAK-STAT pathway, TNF-α-mediated pathway, MAPK/mTOR pathway, and apoptotic and angiogenic pathways and effector molecules involved in cancer development, has been discussed in the manuscript. Critical evaluation of these effector molecules through molecular approaches using phytomolecules can intersect cancer formation and its metastasis. Manipulation of effector molecules like NF-kβ, SOCS, β-catenin, BAX, BAK, VEGF, STAT, Bcl2, p53, caspases, and CDKs has played an important role in inhibiting tumor growth and its spread. Plant-derived secondary metabolites obtained from natural sources have been extensively studied for their cancer-preventing potential in the last few decades. Eugenol, anethole, capsaicin, sanguinarine, EGCG, 6-gingerol, and resveratrol are some examples of such interesting lead molecules and are mentioned in the manuscript. This work is an attempt to put forward a comprehensive approach to understanding cancer progression pathways and their management using effector herbal molecules. The role of different plant metabolites and their chronic toxicity profiling in modulating cancer development pathways has also been highlighted.
Influence of an inspiratory muscle fatigue protocol on healthy youths on respiratory muscle strength and heart rate variability. A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ladriñán-Maestro Arturo , Sánchez-Infante Jorge , Martín-Vera Daniel , Sánchez-Sierra Alberto
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Inspiratory muscle fatigue has been shown to have effects on the autonomic nervous system and physical condition. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of an inspiratory muscle fatigue protocol on respiratory muscle strength and heart rate variability in healthy youths.

Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial, employing double-blinding, was conducted with twenty-seven participants aged 18–45 years, non-smokers and engaged in sports activity at least three times a week for a minimum of 1 year. Participants were randomly assigned to three groups: Inspiratory Muscle Fatigue group, Activation group, and Control group. Measurements of heart rate variability, diaphragmatic ultrasound, and maximum inspiratory pressure were taken at two stages: before the intervention and immediately after treatment.

Results: In our results with respect to baseline to post-treatment, the inspiratory muscle fatigue group showed lower values in the Sniff contraction velocity variable (10.96 cm/s ± 1.99–8.34 cm/s ± 1.23; p < 0.01) and higher values in the activation group (10.59 cm/s ± 0.89–12.66 cm/s ± 1.15; p < 0.01) with respect to the control group (10.27 cm/s ± 1.48–9.97 cm/s ± 1.42). On the other hand, the inspiratory muscle fatigue group showed higher values in the Low frequency variable (49.37 n.u. ± 13.91 to 69.48 n.u. ± 8.22; p < 0.01) and lower values in the activation group (57.92 n.u. ± 8.37 to 41.59 n.u. ± 11.21; p < 0.01) with respect to the control group (50.83 n.u. ± 17.30 to 52.10 n.u. ± 20.64). Additionally, significant correlations were found between respiratory variables and heart rate variability variables.

Conclusion: Acute fatigue of the inspiratory musculature appears to negatively impact heart rate variability and inspiratory muscle strength in healthy youths.

Clinical Trial Registration:https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06278714; Identifier: NCT06278714.
A pilot study of a new app based on self-compassion for the prevention and promotion of mental health among Brazilian college students
Authors: Schaab Bruno Luis , Cunha Lara Finkler , Silveira Desiree Cordoni , da Silva Pamela Carvalho , Ballejos Kellen Greff , Diaz Gabriela Bertoletti , Kaiser Vanessa , Calvetti Prisla Ücker , Cazella Sílvio César , Barros Helena Maria Tannhauser , Reppold Caroline Tozzi
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Epidemiological data suggest substantial issues on the mental health of university students worldwide. Self-compassion is associated with lower rates of psychological distress and better positive mental health. Thus, we have developed a app-based intervention based on self-compassion principles targeting the prevention and promotion of mental health in college students. The current pilot study assessed adherence to intervention, preliminary mental health benefits, and satisfaction and acceptability with the app among Brazilian college students.

Methods

The study employed a pre-experimental single-group design along with pre-test and post-test assessments (n = 23). A mixed methods approach was utilized to comprehensively assess the outcomes of the intervention.

Results

The overall adherence rate for the intervention was 37.87%, with 26.26% of participants successfully completing all modules. Among the 21 outcomes assessed, 15 exhibited statistically significant results. Notably, there was a substantial increase in self-compassion, demonstrating a large effect size (d = 1.15), and a moderate effect size reduction in stress (d = 0.62) and anxiety (d = 0.52). All satisfaction indicators for the intervention received scores above 7. The intervention was well-received by participants who completed it, although a potential barrier identified was the volume of text within the app and the need to adopt a more playful and concise format for the intervention.

Discussion

Despite a notable participant dropout, the adherence to intervention aligns with patterns observed in other online interventions conducted in real-world settings. The observed mental health benefits, high satisfaction levels, and positive acceptance underscore the rationale for pursuing a subsequent randomized clinical trial.
Enhanced mitochondrial function in B cells from elderly type-2 diabetes mellitus patients supports intrinsic inflammation
Authors: Frasca Daniela , Bueno Valquiria
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we measured B cell function in elderly healthy individuals (EH) and in elderly patients with Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM, ET2DM), which are treatment-naive, as compared to healthy young (YH) individuals. Results show a higher serum inflammatory status of elderly versus young individuals, and especially of ET2DM versus EH. This status is associated with a reduced response to the seasonal influenza vaccine and with increased frequencies of the circulating pro-inflammatory B cell subset called Double Negative (DN) B cells. B cells from ET2DM patients are not only more inflammatory but also hyper-metabolic as compared to those from EH controls. The results herein are to our knowledge the first to show that T2DM superimposed on aging further increases systemic and B cell intrinsic inflammation, as well as dysfunctional humoral immunity. Our findings confirm and extend our previously published findings showing that inflammatory B cells are metabolically supported.
Food risk assessment based on NSGA-II algorithm: a case study of alcoholic beverages
Authors: Song Cen , Shen Hanwen , Amireddy Srividya , Zhuang Jun
Published: August 2024

Alcoholic beverages have been a significant industry. However, they present food safety risks, necessitating heightened regulation and monitoring. The safety risk assessment of alcoholic beverages encompasses a variety of factors, including microorganisms, excessive methanol content, chemical adulteration, and food additives. The data used in this paper is sourced from the National Food Safety Sampling Inspection Results Query System in China. The primary conclusions are as follows: (1) A deviation reconstruction-based multi-weight decision model is proposed, which incorporates three distinct weight acquisition methods to perform optimization calculations. (2) The comparative investigations serve as evidence of the risk assessment model’s effectiveness. (3) The multi-weight decision model based on deviation reconstruction and the NSGA-II (non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II) exhibit excellent adaptability. The results of the risk assessment are analyzed, and recommendations are offered based on the categories of alcoholic beverages and the detection indicators. This paper investigates the regulation of food safety and the identification of risks in intoxicating beverages. It also transitions the response to food safety risks from a passive to an active protection strategy. This method has the potential to improve the public’s perception of safety and satisfaction with food-related concerns, as well as to provide the industry with practical solutions for sustainable growth. Simultaneously, this document establishes new risk assessment regulations for alcoholic beverages, offering recommendations for enhancing regulatory efficiency.
Automated Measurement of Cattle Dimensions Using Improved Keypoint Detection Combined with Unilateral Depth Imaging
Authors: Peng Cheng , Cao Shanshan , Li Shujing , Bai Tao , Zhao Zengyuan , Sun Wei
Published: August 2024

Traditional measurement methods often rely on manual operations, which are not only inefficient but also cause stress to cattle, affecting animal welfare. Currently, non-contact cattle dimension measurement usually involves the use of multi-view images combined with point cloud or 3D reconstruction technologies, which are costly and less flexible in actual farming environments. To address this, this study proposes an automated cattle dimension measurement method based on an improved keypoint detection model combined with unilateral depth imaging. Firstly, YOLOv8-Pose is selected as the keypoint detection model and SimSPPF replaces the original SPPF to optimize spatial pyramid pooling, reducing computational complexity. The CARAFE architecture, which enhances upsampling content-aware capabilities, is introduced at the neck. The improved YOLOv8-pose achieves a mAP of 94.4%, a 2% increase over the baseline model. Then, cattle keypoints are captured on RGB images and mapped to depth images, where keypoints are optimized using conditional filtering on the depth image. Finally, cattle dimension parameters are calculated using the cattle keypoints combined with Euclidean distance, the Moving Least Squares (MLS) method, Radial Basis Functions (RBFs), and Cubic B-Spline Interpolation (CB-SI). The average relative errors for the body height, lumbar height, body length, and chest girth of the 23 measured beef cattle were 1.28%, 3.02%, 6.47%, and 4.43%, respectively. The results show that the method proposed in this study has high accuracy and can provide a new approach to non-contact beef cattle dimension measurement.
Hardware Implementation of Hybrid Data Driven-PI Control Scheme for Resilient Operation of Standalone DC Microgrid
Authors: Aghmadi Ahmed , Ali Ola , Sajjad Hossain Rafin S. M. , Taha Rawan A. , Ibrahim Ahmed M. , Mohammed Osama A.
Published: August 2024

The control of energy storage systems (ESSs) within autonomous microgrids (MGs) is critical for ensuring stable and efficient operation, especially when incorporating renewable energy resources (RESs) such as photovoltaic (PV) systems. This paper addresses managing a standalone DC microgrid that combines PV generation and a battery energy storage system (BESS). We propose a hybrid control strategy that combines a Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) with Proportional-Integral (PI) controllers to improve the performance of the bidirectional converter that connects the BESS to the microgrid. The RNN processes the voltage error and derivative into a reference current, which a PI controller refines to determine the best duty cycle for the converter’s switches. This hybrid control scheme provides superior adaptability and performance in various load conditions, including pulsed power load (PPL) demands. Simulation results show that the proposed control method exceeds traditional PI-PI control algorithms, particularly in improving the transient stability of the DC bus voltage and optimizing BESS performance. We conducted extensive hardware experiments to verify the robustness and effectiveness of the developed control algorithm. The experimental results confirmed the superior performance of the hybrid RNN-PI control scheme, demonstrating its ability to maintain system stability and efficiency across a wide range of real-world scenarios. This experimental validation reflects the reliability and effectiveness of the proposed control strategy in improving microgrid operations.
Sustainability through Biomimicry: A Comprehensive Review of Bionic Design Applications
Authors: Jiang Mu , Deng Wenxin , Lin Hong
Published: August 2024

The research objective of this paper is to examine the role of bionic design in advancing sustainable development within industrial design by outlining its theoretical framework; analyzing its applications in morphological, functional, and material aspects; identifying current challenges; and projecting future trends toward eco-integration, resource efficiency, and technological innovation. First, the definition, development history, and theoretical basis of the sustainable development of bionic design are outlined. Secondly, the application of bionic design in sustainable industrial design is analyzed in depth, including the application of morphological bionic design in exploring the combination of nature and innovation, the role of functional bionic design in integrating biological function and product innovation, and the harmonious unification of material bionic and environmental friendliness. Finally, it points out the current challenges faced by bionic design, such as barriers in design practice and market acceptance issues, and looks forward to the sustainable development trend of bionic design, including eco-integration, resource efficiency enhancement, technological innovation, integrated application, etc., to provide new ideas and impetus for the sustainable development of the industrial design field in the future.
Mathematical Modeling of Alzheimer’s Drug Donepezil Hydrochloride Transport to the Brain after Oral Administration
Authors: Drapaca Corina S.
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive degenerative disorder that causes behavioral changes, cognitive decline, and memory loss. Currently, AD is incurable, and the few available medicines may, at best, improve symptoms or slow down AD progression. One main challenge in drug delivery to the brain is the presence of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), a semi-permeable layer around cerebral capillaries controlling the influx of blood-borne particles into the brain. In this paper, a mathematical model of drug transport to the brain is proposed that incorporates two mechanisms of BBB crossing: transcytosis and diffusion. To account for the structural damage and accumulation of harmful waste in the brain caused by AD, the diffusion is assumed to be anomalous and is modeled using spatial Riemann–Liouville fractional-order derivatives. The model’s parameters are taken from published experimental observations of the delivery to mice brains of the orally administered AD drug donepezil hydrochloride. Numerical simulations suggest that drug delivery modalities should depend on the BBB fitness and anomalous diffusion and be tailored to AD severity. These results may inspire novel brain-targeted drug carriers for improved AD therapies.
Dynamics of the Traveling Wave Solutions of Fractional Date–Jimbo–Kashiwara–Miwa Equation via Riccati–Bernoulli Sub-ODE Method through Bäcklund Transformation
Authors: Al-Sawalha M. Mossa , Noor Saima , Alqudah Mohammad , Aldhabani Musaad S. , Ullah Roman
Published: August 2024

The dynamical wave solutions of the time–space fractional Date–Jimbo–Kashiwara–Miwa (DJKM) equation have been obtained in this article using an innovative and efficient technique including the Riccati–Bernoulli sub-ODE method through Bäcklund transformation. Fractional-order derivatives enter into play for their novel contribution to the enhancement of the characterization of dynamic waves while providing better modeling ability compared to integer types of derivatives. The solutions of the above-mentioned time–space fractional Date–Jimbo–Kashiwara–Miwa equation have tremendous importance in numerous scientific scenarios. The regular dynamical wave solutions of the aforementioned equation encompass three fundamental functions: trigonometric, hyperbolic, and rational functions will be among the topics covered. These solutions are graphically classified into three categories: compacton kink solitary wave solutions, kink soliton wave solutions and anti-kink soliton wave solutions. In addition, to explore the impact of the fractional parameter (α) on those solutions, 2D plots are utilized, while 3D plots are applied to present the solutions involving the integer-order derivatives.
Preliminary Experimental and Numerical Study of the Tensile Behavior of a Composite Based on Sycamore Bark Fibers
Authors: Khoury Moussa Helena , Lestriez Philippe , Bui He Thong , Nguyen Pham The Nhan , Michaud Philippe , Lucas-Roper Romain , Antou Guy , Luong Viet Dung , Duong Pham Tuong Minh , Abbès Fazilay , Abbès Boussad
Published: August 2024

In the context of global sustainable development, using natural fibers as reinforcement for composites have become increasingly attractive due to their lightweight, abundant availability, renewability, and comparable specific properties to conventional fibers. This paper investigates the tensile properties of a sycamore bark fiber-reinforced composite. The tensile tests using digital image correlation showed that, by adding 18% by volume of sycamore bark for the polyester matrix, the tensile modulus achieves 4788.4 ± 940.1 MPa. Moreover, the tensile strength of the polyester resin increased by approximately 90% when reinforced with sycamore bark fiber, achieving a tensile strength of 64.5 ± 13.4 MPa. These mechanical properties are determined by the way loads are transferred between the polyester matrix and fibers and by the strength of the bond between the fiber-matrix interfaces. Since it is difficult and time consuming to characterize the mechanical properties of natural fibers, an alternative approach was proposed in this study. The method consists of the identification of the fiber elastic modulus using a finite element analysis approach, based on tensile tests conducted on the sycamore bark fiber-reinforced composites. The model correctly describes the overall composite behavior, a good agreement is found between the experimental, and the finite element predicted stress–strain curves. The identified sycamore bark fiber elastic modulus is 17,763 ± 6051 MPa. These results show that sycamore bark fibers can be used as reinforcements to produce composite materials.
Stress Analysis of Tibial Bone Using Three Different Materials for Bone Fixation Plates
Authors: Ceddia Mario , Solarino Giuseppe , Tucci Maria , Lamberti Luciano , Trentadue Bartolomeo
Published: August 2024

Stress shielding is a problem for traditional metal bone fixation plates made of magnesium and titanium alloys. This problem can be solved by using composite materials with a low elastic modulus. This study analyzed the effect of carbon fiber reinforced PEEK (CFRP) composites on stress shielding under static loading using finite element simulations. Callus formation times relative to the healing period were gradually imposed according to the elapsed time, considering 1% and 75% as healing stages. The Inventor© 3D CAD 2024 software was used for modeling, and the ANSYS© FEA R2023 software was used for analysis. The results showed that metal fixation plates made of titanium and magnesium alloys transferred less stress to the bone than the CFRP fixation plate. In particular, the use of the CFRP fixation plate resulted in a higher peak stress and a more uniform stress field in the bone, especially in the bone-plate contact area, where the risk of stress shielding is higher in the 1% and 75% healing phases.
The Mechanical Properties of a Transient Liquid Phase Diffusion Bonded SSM-ADC12 Aluminum Alloy with a ZnAl4Cu3 Zinc Alloy Interlayer
Authors: Meengam Chaiyoot , Dunyakul Yongyuth , Maunkhaw Dech
Published: August 2024

In this study, the mechanical properties of SSM-ADC12 aluminum alloy specimens with a ZnAl4Cu3 zinc alloy interlayer were observed after Transient Liquid Phase Diffusion Bonding (TLPDB), a welding process conducted in a semi-solid state. The purpose of the experiment was to study how the following parameters—bonding temperature (400, 430, 460, 490, and 520 °C), bonding time (60, 90, and 120 min), and thickness of the ZnAl4Cu3 zinc alloy (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mm)—affect the mechanical properties and the types of defects that formed. The results show that the bonding strength varied significantly with different parameters following the TLPDB process. A maximum bonding strength of 32.21 MPa was achieved at a bonding temperature of 490 °C, with 20 min of bonding and a ZnAl4Cu3 zinc alloy layer that was 2.0 mm thick. Conversely, changing the welding parameters influenced the bonding strength. A minimum bonding strength of 2.73 MPa was achieved at a bonding temperature of 400 °C, with a bonding time of 90 min and a ZnAl4Cu3 zinc alloy interlayer that was 2.0 mm thick. The Vickers microhardness results showed that the bonded zone had a lower hardness value compared to the base materials (BMs) of the SSM-ADC12 aluminum alloy (86.60 HV) and the ZnAl4Cu3 zinc alloy (129.37 HV). The maximum hardness was 83.27 HV, which resulted from a bonding temperature of 520 °C, a bonding time of 90 min, and a ZnAl4Cu3 zinc alloy that was 2.0 mm thick. However, in the near interface, the hardness value increased because of the formation of MgZn2 intermetallic compounds (IMCs). The fatigue results showed that the stress amplitude was 31.21 MPa in the BMs of the SSM-ADC12 aluminum alloy and 20.92 MPa in the material that results from this TLPDB process (TLPDB Material) when the limit of cyclic loading exceeded 106 cycles. Microstructural examination revealed that transformation from a β-eutectic Si IMC recrystallization structure to η(Zn–Al–Cu) and β(Al2Mg3Zn3) IMCs occurred. A size reduction to a width of 6–11 µm and a length of 16–44 µm was observed via SEM. Finally, voids or porosity and bucking defects were found in this experiment.
New Words with -ment in Present-Day English: Their Properties and the Distinction between Functional and Lexical Categories
Authors: Naya Ryohei
Published: August 2024

Derivational affixes are not always automatically classified into functional or lexical categories. Although they are treated differently in various approaches, a shared view contends that the status of a suffix is controversial when it forms categorially incoherent words. However, it is debatable even when it forms words of a single category. This study argues that the Bifurcated Lexical Model proposed by Joseph E. Emonds is promising in this respect. With two subcomponents of the lexicon that, respectively, store functional and lexical morphemes, the model allows an affix to behave both as a functional and a lexical morpheme. This study demonstrates that the model can successfully account for the properties of the deverbal noun-forming suffix -ment in Present-Day English. The -ment nouns newly retrieved from the Oxford English Dictionary Online include instances in which -ment attaches to non-verbal elements and converted words. While such nouns may pose potential challenges to the perspective of an affix as a functional morpheme, their existence is not surprising but rather predictable within the model that allows for the flexibility of an affix in the dichotomy between functional and lexical categories.
Are All Conversational Turns Equal? Parental Language Input and Child Language in Children with Hearing Loss during Daily Interactions
Authors: Muller Hiltje P. , Benard Michel R. , Meijer Annerenée , Başkent Deniz , Dirks Evelien
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: Conversational turns between parents and children contribute to the language development of children. This study aimed to examine parental language input during interactions with high numbers of conversational turns (focused interactions) and those with fewer turns (regular interactions) in children with hearing loss at home. (2) Methods: Twelve children (aged 18–47 months) with hearing loss and their parents participated. Each child wore a Language ENvironment Analysis system digital language processor for 2 days to record all conversations between the parent and child. Focused interactions were characterized by high conversational turns, while regular interactions were defined by median conversational turns. The quantity of language input was reflected by the number of words parents used during the interaction, and the quality was reflected by the mean length of parental utterances, the use of low- and high-level facilitative language techniques, lexical diversity, and the use of (de)contextualized talk. (3) Results: During focused interactions, parents exposed their children to more words than during regular interactions, while the opposite was found for lexical diversity. The quality of parental language input did not differ between the two types of interactions. Parental language input was associated with children’s spontaneous language. (4) Conclusion: Not all conversational turns are equal but are nonetheless associated with children’s language development.
Natural Law, Common Law, and the Problem of Historicism in American Public Life and Education
Authors: Haines Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Recent developments within American politics have witnessed an increase in the use of history to highlight the need for social justice and civic engagement. Yet, on its own, history is an altogether impotent means of doing so, for it fails to provide the public with the moral framework necessary for evaluating past injustices on an objective basis. To remedy this problem, this essay suggests that historians and other scholars and activists who are interested in civic engagement and social justice should look to the classical and common law traditions; the answer to the theoretical need for a solution to problems within presentist activism has, in other words, been the law. Doing so would provide a more universal and shared conception of past injustices and help increase a polity’s moral consciousness. Practically, this strategy can be implemented through a classical or liberal education, with the additional help of state legislatures. In all, this essay argues that history on its own is insufficient for moral education, that the best moral education is offered through the classical model, and that, as a practical matter, it is necessary for a legislative solution to mandate that education, if it will ever be possible to find an objective basis for civic engagement and social justice.
Kinetics and Mechanism of SiO2 Extraction from Acid-Leached Coal Gangue Residue by Alkaline Hydrothermal Treatment
Authors: Kong Deshun , Gao Yuan , Song Shuojiang , Jiang Rongli
Published: August 2024

Acid-leached gangue residue is produced after the gangue extraction of metal ions; the main component is silicon, which can be used to extract silica. To ascertain the kinetics and mechanism of silica extraction from acid-leached coal gangue residue, this study explored the effects of the NaOH concentration, solid-to-liquid ratio, reaction temperature, and reaction time on the extraction process. The optimized conditions, determined through this investigation, involved a NaOH concentration of 4 mol/L, a reaction time of 4 h, a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:4, and a reaction temperature of 180 °C, yielding a SiO2 extraction ratio of 90.16%. Additionally, the leaching kinetics of silica in a NaOH solution were examined using three kinetic equations from the “unreacted shrinking core model”. The results revealed that the control type of the leaching process was the “mixing control”, and the apparent activation energy was determined to be 52.36 kJ/mol.
Influence of Noble Metals on Morphology and Topology of Structural Elements in Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Greshta Viktor L. , Shalomeev Vadim A. , Lukianenko Oleksandr S. , Bogucki Rafał , Korniejenko Kinga , Tabunshchyk Serhii S.
Published: August 2024

The main motivation for this study was to improve implant materials. The influence of silver and gold on the structure and mechanical properties of Mg–Nd–Zr alloy was studied. In the work, quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the structural components of magnesium alloy with noble metal additives was performed. The research methods used were investigation of the mechanical properties and observation of micro– and macrostructures. The results showed that modification of magnesium alloy with Ag and Au contributes to the formation of spherical intermetallics of smaller size groups, which become additional centers of crystallization and grind the cast structure. The best composition from additional alloying with silver and gold was determined. Their positive effect on the strength and ductility properties of the metal was established. Preclinical and clinical testing was performed and the prospects for noble metal modification of bioabsorbable magnesium alloy for implant production usage were shown.
Structure and Corrosion Behavior of Multiphase Intermetallic ZrCu-Based Alloys
Authors: Babilas Rafał , Młynarek-Żak Katarzyna , Kania Aneta , Deshmukh Akash A. , Warski Tymon , Hawełek Łukasz
Published: August 2024

Zirconium-based alloys are highly regarded by the research community for their exceptional corrosion resistance, thermal stability, and mechanical properties. In our work, we investigated two newly developed alloys, Zr42.42Cu41.18Al9.35Ag7.05 and Zr46.81Cu35.44Al10.09Ag7.66, in the form of ingots and ribbons. In the course of our investigation, we conducted a comprehensive structural and thermal analysis. In addition, an examination of the corrosion activity encompassing electrochemical studies and an analysis of the corrosion mechanisms was carried out. To further evaluate the performance of the materials, tests of their mechanical properties were performed, including microhardness and resistance to abrasive wear. Structural analysis showed that both alloys studied had a multiphase, crystalline structure with intermetallic phases. The samples in the form of ribbons showed improved corrosion resistance compared to that of the ingots. The ingot containing a higher content of copper Zr42.42Cu41.18Al9.35Ag7.05 was characterized by better corrosion resistance, while showing lower average hardness and a higher degree of abrasive wear based on SEM observations after pin-on-disc tests.
Tryptase: The Silent Witness of Past and Ongoing Systemic Events
Authors: Oštrić Pavlović Irena , Radović Sara , Krtinić Danka , Spirić Jelena , Kusić Nataša , Veličković Antonije , Tomić-Spirić Vesna
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Tryptase is an important biomarker widely used in the laboratory confirmation of severe hypersensitivity reactions, especially anaphylaxis. It also plays a crucial role in the diagnosis, risk stratification, management and prognostic evaluation of many other mast cell-related conditions. Aim: This paper aims to highlight the role of serum tryptase, both in allergic disorders and other mast cell-related conditions. Two clinical cases regarding timely serum tryptase acquisition (in drug hypersensitivity reactions during the imaging procedure and perioperative anaphylaxis) are meant to emphasize the clinical potential of this protease. Method: We performed a comprehensive literature search of the PubMed/Medline and Scopus databases. From a total of 640 subject related publications, dating from 1940 to 2024, 45 articles written in English were selected. Literature search results: Total serum tryptase is a simple, cost-effective analysis with a normal baseline tryptase (sBT) level below 8.4 µg/L. Elevated sBT can indicate hereditary alpha-tryptasemia (HαT), mastocytosis and other non-allergic disorders. Patients with higher sBT levels, especially with insect venom allergy, have an increased risk of severe reactions and thereby require a prolonged treatment. All immediate systemic hypersensitivity reactions require a correlation between serum acute tryptase (sAT) and sBT. According to the guidelines, measuring sAT 30 min to 2 h after the symptom onset and sBT 24 h after the resolution, using the 20 + 2 rule and an sAT/sBT ratio of 1.685, improves the diagnostic accuracy in anaphylaxis. Conclusions: Tryptase levels should be acquired in all cases with clinical suspicion of MC degranulation. Given the increasing clinical relevance, elevated baseline serum tryptase levels require a multidisciplinary approach and further investigation.
Surgical Outcomes of Thyroidectomy in Geriatric Patients Aged 80 Years and Older: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Huang Wei , Chen Yi-Ju , Chen Wei-Hsin
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: As the global aging population grows, the incidence of thyroidectomy in elderly patients is increasing. This study aimed to evaluate the surgical outcomes of thyroidectomy in patients aged 80 years and older. Materials and Methods: All patients aged 80 years and older who underwent thyroidectomies at our hospital between January 2015 and December 2022 were reviewed in this retrospective cohort study. Collected data consisted of patients’ clinical characteristics, functional status, compression symptoms, preoperative assessments, perioperative outcomes, postoperative complications (such as bleeding events, recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, hypocalcemia), pathological findings, readmission, and follow-up outcomes. Results: Seventeen patients were included in this study, with female predominance (82.4%). The mean age was 85.6 ± 4.8 years. Fourteen patients (82.4%) exhibited compression-related symptoms as surgical indications. Based on pathological reports, patients were categorized into benign (12/17, 70.6%) and malignancy (5/17, 29.4%) groups. The benign group had a shorter operation time compared with the malignancy group (164.3 ± 32.0 min vs. 231.0 ± 79.1 min, p = 0.048). No major postoperative complications developed. The median postoperative follow-up duration was 28 months (range: 2–91 months). Thirteen patients (76.5%) were alive at the end of the study period. Conclusions: Despite potential age-related risks, thyroidectomy is feasible for carefully selected patients aged 80 years and older. It provides benefits not only in terms of oncological curative treatment but also in improving the quality of life, such as compressive symptoms and wound condition.
Application of Electrodialysis to Production of High-Purity Perrhenic Acid
Authors: Kowalik Patrycja , Kopyto Dorota , Benke Grzegorz , Ciszewski Mateusz , Grzybek Alicja , Malarz Joanna , Pianowska Karolina , Goc Karolina , Orda Szymon , Babilas Dorota , Dydo Piotr , Leszczyńska-Sejda Katarzyna
Published: August 2024

Laboratory tests were conducted for the production of high-purity perrhenic acid using a membrane technique—electrodialysis. Four solutions were used in the tests: diluate, concentrate, anolyte, and catholyte. The experiments were carried out in a two-stream system. The influence of basic process parameters, including the flow rate of process streams or current density, on the purity of the obtained perrhenic acid were examined. Electrodialysis was also carried out as part of this research, aiming to concentrate the perrhenic acid >100 g/dm3. The concentrate solution obtained in the concentration tests, with a concentration of 148.7 g/dm3 HReO4 and 530 mg/dm3 NH4+, was then sent to the purification process using the electrodialysis method. The purification process was carried out until the concentration of NH4+ ions was <100 mg/dm3 in the concentrate. Finally, perrhenic acid was obtained with the following composition: 169.7 g/dm3 HReO4 and 70 mg/dm3 NH4+. Based on this research, a technological scheme for producing high-purity HReO4 by electrodialysis was developed.
IDENTITY STUDIES IN POSTHUMANIST ANTHROPOLOGY: A TERMINOLOGICAL ASPECT
Authors:   National Academy of Managerial Staff of Culture and Arts, Hots L.
Published: August 2024

The actualization of the problem of fluid and multiple identities inherent in the world of "liquid modernity" (Z. Bauman) was reflected in Western science of the last third of the twentieth century. At the same time, with the spread of trans- and posthumanist ideas in the twenty-first century, it is acquiring new, "non-human" horizons. The analytical article is devoted to the problem of the methodology of research and designation of alternative human identities in posthumanist anthropology. The terminological apparatus for the study of non-human identities is proposed for the first time in the post-Soviet area of humanities. The methodology of the study within the disciplinary field of Posthumanist anthropology (Transhumanist Studies, Posthuman Studies) is primarily based on the conceptual foundations of poststructuralism. In order to explicate the actual meaning of the terms "Other", "non-human", "non-anthropomorphic", "otherkin" in the scientific works, structuralism (the method of binary oppositions) was also used to find out the axiological connotations inherent in the concept of posthuman; as well as methods of semantic, terminological, and discourse analysis. The main generalized terms that mark the non-human identity of biological humans in scientific discourse are identified – "Other", "non-human" and "otherkin". The semantics of these terms is explicated, their short definitions are offered, the specifics and range of their use in foreign posthumanist anthropology are revealed. It is proposed to introduce the terms "non-human" and "otherkin" in the Ukrainian scientific discourse as the ones that most accurately reflect the wide range of individual experiences of people with other-than-human identities. It is proved that these terms can become the main generalizing tool for the study of non-human subjects and alternative identities in the Ukrainian science. It is argued that in posthumanist anthropology, poststructuralist research methodology should be preferred as more objective than structuralism and the method of binary oppositions. Key words: cultural studies, transhumanism, posthumanism, other-than-human identities, Other, otherkin, non-human, terminology, binary oppositions, structuralism, poststructuralism.
THE IMAGE OF THE HOME IN THE CONTEXT OF SOCIAL AND HUMANITARIAN SCIENCES
Authors:   Mariupol State University, Shiryaeva O. , Zubchenko O. ,   Mariupol State University
Published: August 2024

The article is devoted to the problems of perception of the image of home during the time of large-scale Russian aggression, mass forced emigration from Ukraine and resettlement within the country, which have both theoretical and practical relevance. The researcher aims to conduct a comparative analysis of ideas about the image of the home in philosophical, sociological and psychological literature, to project these theoretical approaches to Ukrainian realities. The author defines the "image of home" as a multidimensional concept containing meanings, symbols and evaluations related to our biography, time of residence in a certain place, features of primary and secondary socialization, individual and group traumatic experience. It is noted that with the beginning of the war, the idea of home changed not only among those who permanently or temporarily left their home, but also among almost all residents of Ukraine. The article states that the phenomenological concept of the "life world" by E. Husserl and A. Shchyuts has significant heuristic potential for studying the social adaptation of our servicemen who will return home after victory. At the same time, O. Spengler's concept of civilization allows us to explain the barbaric behavior of the Russian invaders on the territory of Ukraine and the essence of the occupation regime established by them. At the same time, the theories of M. Heidegger and M. Buber help to understand the motives of people who, risking the lives of themselves and their loved ones, do not want to evacuate from territories where active hostilities are ongoing. The author comes to the conclusion that each of the considered concepts of home describes different aspects of human spatial existence - from existential to ecological, in its own way characterizes the difficulties and limitations of life situations that Ukrainians find themselves in search of a better destiny. At the same time, the house gradually loses its geographical localization and is associated not so much with a specific address, but with the possibilities of freedom, self-expression and privacy of a person in its space. Key words: home, home image, life world, privacy.
SCIENCES OF CULTURAL ORIENTATION IN THE CONTEXT OF COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
Authors:   Kharkiv State Academy of Culture, Holotenko P.
Published: August 2024

In the conducted research, a certain number of concepts were established to indicate the varieties of scientific and cultural studies. Identified the semantics of each of the available designations in the context of their relationship in the Ukrainian and Western scientific tradition. The history of the emergence of terminological names in various countries of the Western world, including in Ukraine, has been studied, in connection with which the substantive specificity of cultural studies and certain highly specialized sciences about culture has been analyzed. The scientific novelty of the study consists in the systematization, comparison, and definition of the content of the most famous names for scientific and cultural creativity, which are used both in the Ukrainian and in the Western scientific and humanitarian sphere. Clarifying the meanings of various terminological names of scientific cultural studies and other disciplines is one of the primary tasks. Without solving the content uncertainty, it is impossible to navigate well in the internal organization and structure of the science of culture, which in turn hinders the awareness of the subject area of various directions of cultural studies. The conducted research contributes to terminological specificity and consistency, which brings closer mutual understanding in the process of inter-scientific communication, and also increases the effectiveness of theoretical research on similar issues. In addition, the materials of this article can be useful in the educational process, in particular for courses of lectures on "History and Philosophy of Science", "Theory of Culture", etc. This is the practical significance of this article. Key words: culturology, ethnology, anthropology, philosophy of culture, cultural studies.
OSTROZ COLLEGE IN THE DISCOURSE OF MODERN UKRAINIAN CULTURE
Authors:   Mariupol State University, Nikolchenko Y. , Deliman V. ,   Mariupol State University
Published: August 2024

The authors of the article investigate the problem of the educational and cultural activities of the Ostroh Collegium – an important center of the national and spiritual progress of Ukraine in the borderlands of the XVI-XVII centuries. The special attention of the authors is focused on those components of higher education activities that occupy a prominent place in Ukrainian national education and culture. Ostroh Collegium was the first among European institutions of that time to combine two types of culture: Eastern Slavic and Western European. The name of the collegium «Slavic-Greek-Latin» reflected not so much the language of instruction as the general cultural orientation of the university, aimed at combining the achievements of Slavic-Ukrainian spirituality with the cultural achievements of Western Europe. The high level of teaching and the classical composition of teachers contributed to the development of Renaissance worldview, tolerance, unorthodox thinking in the students of the collegium, which ensured the organic perception of European values in combination with the observance of the national spiritual tradition. The material presented in the article contributes to the formation of a realistic view of the national spiritual heritage of national and cultural revival in modern Ukraine. This question acquires exceptional importance in the dramatic present day of Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine, because, as an example of the activities of the Ostroh Collegium, the domestic national cultural heritage is an important factor in patriotic education. Key words: the history of Ukrainian culture, the city of Ostrog, Prince Konstantin-Vasyl Ostroh, Ostroh Collegium, educational and educational process, Cyrillic printing, national and spiritual education, patriotism.