bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Approach for Predicting Strength Based on Temperature-Time History Using Two-Parameter Maturity ANN Models
Authors: Wawrzeńczyk Jerzy
Published: December 2024

One widely used method to predict concrete strength development based on temperature variations during curing is the equivalent maturity time (te) method. This method uses the activation energy (Ea) as its key parameter, which reflects the cement’s sensitivity to temperature. However, research shows that the Ea value varies depending on factors such as cement type, water/cement ratio, temperature, and additives. The permanent subject of discussion is the question of what value of the Ea parameter should be assumed. In this paper, a new approach is proposed by using a neural network analysis method to develop a strength–temperature history model. It was assumed that the ANN-fc% = f(Q, E, T, t) model would have 4 inputs: hydration heat (Q), activation energy (Ea), temperature (T), and time (t). The research was conducted on mortars using 6 cements, at curing temperatures ranging from 5 to 35 °C, assessing strength over a 90 day period. The results showed that the ANN analysis method allows for estimating the relative compressive strength with sufficient accuracy. Analysis of the input nodes indicated that Q influences early strength gain, while Ea affects later strength development. The application of the ANN model for calculating strength based on temperature changes during maturation was illustrated.
Nanostructures in Orthopedics: Advancing Diagnostics, Targeted Therapies, and Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Frączek Wiktoria , Kotela Andrzej , Kotela Ireneusz , Grodzik Marta
Published: December 2024

Nanotechnology, delving into the realm of nanometric structures, stands as a transformative force in orthopedics, reshaping diagnostics, and numerous regenerative interventions. Commencing with diagnostics, this scientific discipline empowers accurate analyses of various diseases and implant stability, heralding an era of unparalleled precision. Acting as carriers for medications, nanomaterials introduce novel therapeutic possibilities, propelling the field towards more targeted and effective treatments. In arthroplasty, nanostructural modifications to implant surfaces not only enhance mechanical properties but also promote superior osteointegration and durability. Simultaneously, nanotechnology propels tissue regeneration, with nanostructured dressings emerging as pivotal elements in accelerating wound healing. As we navigate the frontiers of nanotechnology, ongoing research illuminates promising avenues for further advancements, assuring a future where orthopedic practices are not only personalized but also highly efficient, promising a captivating journey through groundbreaking innovations and tailored patient care.
Investigation of Shear Behavior in High-Strength Bolt Connectors for Steel–Concrete Composite Beams
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Jie , Xing Xiaobo , Liu Huining , Di Jin , Sun Xianchao , Li Leibo , Li Hongwei , Qin Fengjiang
Published: December 2024

High-strength bolt connectors, known for their robust strength and ease of disassembly, are suitable not only for the construction of new steel–concrete composite beams but also for reinforcing existing composite or steel beams. Static push-out tests were performed on nine specimens to examine their shear behavior. The primary failure mode was observed at the steel–concrete interface, characterized by the tensile–shear failure of the bolt and localized crushing of the concrete beneath the bolt. The preload had no significant influence on the ultimate bearing capacity and ultimate slip displacement, while it had a substantial impact on the initial slip load. The failure process was divided into static friction at the interface, sliding at the interface, elastic deformation of the bolt, and plastic deformation of the bolt. The parametric analysis using the finite element method was performed to assess the impact of concrete strength, reserved hole diameter, interface friction coefficient, and bolt diameter and strength. It revealed that the ultimate bearing capacity is composed of interfacial friction and bolt shear capacity, which are not independent of each other. To decouple these components, a novel calculation method for determining the ultimate bearing capacity of high-strength bolt connectors was developed and validated using existing test data.
Influence of High-Speed Ram Transition Position on Porosity and Mechanical Properties of Large One-Piece Die-Casting Al-Si-Mn-Mg Aluminium Alloy
Authors: Zhang Sai , Ren Pengfei , Wang Kangle , Liu Bo , Meng Xianming
Published: December 2024

The high-pressure die-casting process can effectively manufacture aluminium alloy castings with complex shapes and thin wall thicknesses. However, due to the complex flow characteristics of the liquid metal during the mould-filling process, there are significant differences in the mechanical properties of different parts of the casting. This paper analyses the effect of the high-speed ram transition position on porosity and mechanical properties of Al-Si-Mn-Mg aluminium alloys in the high-pressure die-casting (HPDC) process, comparing the 1160 mm and 1200 mm positions. Using a comprehensive methodology that combines CT, tensile tests, and SEM, the research demonstrates that the 1160 mm position improves mechanical properties and reduces porosity, with a larger gap at the near-end of the casting, where the yield limit and elongation of the casting increased by 13% and 25% at 1160 mm compared to 1200 mm, respectively. This result shows that appropriate adjustment of the high-speed ram transition position can effectively optimise the organisational structure of thin-walled castings, and then improve their mechanical properties.
Artificial Intelligence in the Sustainable Design and Manufacturing of Products in Civil Engineering in the Context of Industry 4.0
Authors: Mandičák Tomáš , Behúnová Annamária , Mésároš Peter
Published: December 2024

The implementation of smart technologies as well as artificial intelligence resulted in an increase in productivity and efficiency in production, optimization of costs, and automation of time-consuming processes. The situation is similar in the field of the production of construction products. Digitization and automation are challenges within Industry 4.0 (Construction 4.0), which are the subject and interest of several studies and discussions by experts in the field. The aim of the research is to analyze the relationships between digitization in the industry, artificial intelligence, and performance in the design, production, and use of construction products in the context of Industry 4.0 principles. The research uses primary and secondary data on the use of AI and its potential and impacts in the field of performance and efficiency in design, production, and use in civil engineering. Several statistical tools are used in the analysis, from descriptive statistics to the use of statistical tests and correlation and regression analysis. Spearman’s correlation coefficient was the primary tool for evaluating the dependence between variables. The research results point to the connection and dependence between the use of AI and digitization in individual design and production activities. Autonomous production machines, the production of ore products, and generative design represent areas of production in the construction industry, where the use of AI and digitization makes sense from the point of view of the performance of the results. Innovations and intelligent tools within the concept of Industry 4.0 (Construction 4.0) are, therefore, a prerequisite for an effective setting of design and production in this industry as well.
Proposal for Hemiplegic Thumb Rehabilitation Device Based on Repetitive Facilitation Exercise
Authors: Taniguchi Koutaro , Tanda Yuta , Yu Yong
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we propose a thumb rehabilitation device based on the concept of Repetitive Facilitation Exercise (RFE) therapy. Our device only uses rapid passive stretching to the extensor muscle to induce a stretch reflex as a facilitative stimulation. RFE, a proven rehabilitation method, promotes neural pathway recovery through repetitive voluntary movements facilitated by passive stimulation. We proposed a simple mechanism capable of performing flexion/extension and palmar adduction/abduction RFE training movements using only a single motor and a single link, without a tapping mechanism. Our results demonstrate that the proposed control method can induce a stretch reflex in the desired muscle through rapid adduction/flexion passive stretching and facilitate active abduction/extension motion.
Research on a Bearing Fault Diagnosis Method Based on a CNN-LSTM-GRU Model
Authors: Han Kaixu , Wang Wenhao , Guo Jun
Published: December 2024

In view of the problem of the insufficient performance of deep learning models in time series prediction and poor comprehensive space–time feature extraction, this paper proposes a diagnostic method (CNN-LSTM-GRU) that integrates convolutional neural network (CNN), long short-term memory (LSTM) network, and gated recurrent unit (GRU) models. In this study, a convolutional neural network (CNN) model is used to process two-dimensional image data in both time and frequency domains, and a convolutional core attention mechanism is introduced to extract spatial features, such as peaks, cliffs, and waveforms, from the samples. A long short-term memory (LSTM) network is embedded in the output processing of the convolutional neural network (CNN) to analyze the long-sequence variation characteristics of rolling bearing vibration signals and enable long-term time series prediction by capturing long-term dependencies in the sequence. In addition, a gated recurrent unit (GRU) is used to refine long-term time series predictions, providing local fine-tuning and improving the accuracy of fault diagnosis. Using a dataset obtained from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), the average accuracy of CNN-LSTM-GRU fault vibration is greater than 99%, and its superior performance in a noisy environment is demonstrated.
An End-to-End Adaptive Method for Remaining Useful Life Prediction of Rolling Bearings Using Time–Frequency Image Features
Authors: Chen Liang , Wang Hao , Meng Linshu , Xu Zhenzhen , Xue Lin , Ren Mingfa
Published: December 2024

The deep learning model has attracted widespread attention in the field of rolling bearing remaining useful life (RUL) prediction due to its advantages of less reliance on prior knowledge, high accuracy, and strong generalization. However, a large number of prediction models use very complicated artificial feature extraction and selection methods to build the original input features of the deep learning model and health indicator. These approaches do not fully exploit the capabilities of deep learning models as they continue to heavily rely on prior knowledge, The accuracy of their predictions largely hinges on the quality of the input features, and the generalization of manually crafted features remains uncertain. To address these challenges, in this paper, an end-to-end prediction model for the remaining useful life of rolling bearings is proposed, which is divided into three modules. First, a short-term Fourier transform module is incorporated into the model to automatically obtain the time–frequency information of the signal. Then, the convolutional next (ConvNext) module, which is a simple and efficient pure convolutional neural network, is utilized to extract features from the spectrogram. Finally, we capture the short-term dependence and long-term dependence by two parallel channels Transformer and self-attention convolutional long short-term memory (SA-ConvLSTM), and the self-attention mechanism is employed for the adaptive prediction of the bearing’s remaining useful life. Through integration with artificial intelligence, this method proposes a high-performance solution for predicting the remaining useful life of bearings. It has minimal reliance on manual labor, stronger fitting capabilities, and can be widely used for predicting the remaining useful life of bearings.
Representative Community Detection Algorithms for Attribute Networks
Authors: Chen Dongming , Xie Mingzhao , He Yuxing , Zou Xin , Wang Dongqi
Published: December 2024

In network analysis, methods for identifying a community structure of ten involve optimizing a specific objective function to achieve a single optimal allocation from network nodes to communities. In practice, however, we often encounter multiple division schemes with high-quality scores close to the overall optimum. An accurate depiction of the community structure is more appropriately achieved by a series of high-quality division schemes rather than relying solely on a single optimal solution. However, such a collection of network divisions may be challenging to interpret, as its size may rapidly expand to hundreds or even thousands. To this end, we propose a representative community detection algorithm for attribute networks. By clustering similar network partitions and selecting representative partitions from each cluster, we can comprehensively reveal the diversity of network community structures and provide partition results with a more global perspective. Network partitioning experiments on natural and artificial datasets demonstrate that our proposed method performs better than advanced methods.
Correction: Zhang et al. Astaxanthin Alleviates Early Brain Injury Following Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Rats: Possible Involvement of Akt/Bad Signaling. Mar. Drugs 2014, 8, 4291
Authors: Zhang Xiang-Sheng , Zhang Xin , Wu Qi , Li Wei , Zhang Qing-Rong , Wang Chun-Xi , Zhou Xiao-Ming , Li Hua , Shi Ji-Xin , Zhou Meng-Liang
Published: December 2024

Errors in Figures [...]
Chemical Composition, Free Radicals and Pathogenic Microbes in the Extract Derived from Dictyota dichotoma: In Silico and In Vitro Approaches
Authors: Oumassi Fouad , Chebbac Khalid , Ben Ali Naouar , Kaabi Soundouss , El Ansari Zineb Nejjar , Metouekel Amira , El Barnossi Azeddin , El Moussaoui Abdelfattah , Chebaibi Mohamed , Bounab Loubna , Mssillou Ibrahim , Shahat Abdelaaty Abdelaziz , El Bouzdoudi Brahim , L’bachir El Kbiach Mohammed
Published: December 2024

Marine algae are renowned for their health benefits due to the presence of functional bioactive compounds. In this context, this study aims to valorize the extract of a seaweed, Dictyota dichotoma (D. dichotoma), through phytochemical characterization using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS), as well as in vitro and in silico evaluation of its biological activities (antioxidant and antimicrobial). Phytochemical characterization revealed that the ethanolic extract of Dictyota dichotoma (DdEx) is rich in phenolic compounds, with a total of 22 phycocompounds identified. Antioxidant activity, measured by various methods, showed an IC50 of 120 µg/mL for the DPPH assay, an EC50 of 120.53 µg/mL for the FRAP assay, and a total antioxidant power of 685.26 µg AAE/mg according to the phosphomolybdate (TAC) method. Evaluation of antibacterial activity showed a zone of inhibition diameter ranging from 11.93 to 22.58 mm, with the largest zone observed for the Escherichia coli (E. coli) strain. For antifungal activity, inhibition zone diameters ranged from 22.38 to 23.52 mm, with the largest recorded for the Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) strain. The in silico study identified tetragalloyl-glucose, apigenin-7-O-glucoside, and pentagalloyl-glucose as the most active compounds against NADPH oxidase, with docking scores of −7.723, −7.424, and −6.402 kcal/mol, respectively. Regarding antibacterial activity, apigenin-7-O-glucoside, pelargonidin-3-O-glucoside, and secoisolariciresinol demonstrated high affinity for E. coli beta-ketoacyl-[acyl carrier protein] synthase, with docking scores of −7.276, −6.811, and −6.594 kcal/mol, respectively. These in vitro and in silico evaluations showed that D. dichotoma extract possesses antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, due to its richness in bioactive compounds identified by HPLC.
The Corrosion Behavior of Carbon Steel Materials Used at Nuclear Power Plants During Deactivation and Decommissioning Processes
Authors: Lu Wen-Feng , Chen Tai-Cheng , Tsai Kun-Chao , Yung Tung-Yuan
Published: December 2024

This study is focused on the corrosion behavior of carbon steel A106 B in a static water environment, which simulated the decommissioning transition phase of BWR power plants. When the autoclave was filled with stagnant water, the corrosion rates of carbon steel pipe for the cold-drawn and hot-rolled samples were 23 μm/year and 19 μm/year, respectively. When the autoclave was not completely filled with water, leaving the samples fully submerged, the corrosion rate for the hot-rolled sample increased to 88 μm/year. In an autoclave with periodic water flow, the corrosion rate for the cold-drawn sample decreased to 11 μm/year. When the autoclave was not completely filled with water, the sample positioned at the air–water interface exhibited the highest corrosion rate of approximately 102 μm/year. These results indicate that the influence of ion concentration on the corrosion rate outweighed that of dissolved oxygen. Sufficient oxygen concentration facilitated the formation of FeOOH or Fe2O3, while an oxygen-deficient environment favored the formation of Fe3O4.
Fracture and Fatigue Crack Growth Behaviour of A516 Gr 60 Steel Welded Joints
Authors: Kostić Nikola , Čamagić Ivica , Sedmak Aleksandar , Jovanović Milivoje , Burzić Zijah , Golubović Tamara , Sedmak Simon , Martić Igor
Published: December 2024

The facture and fatigue behaviour of welded joints made of A516 Gr 60 was analysed, bearing in mind their susceptibility to cracking, especially in the case of components which had been in service for a long time period. With respect to fracture, the fracture toughness was determined for all three zones of a welded joint, the base metal (BM), heat-affected zone (HAZ) and weld metal (WM), by applying a standard procedure to evaluate KIc via based on JIc values (ASTM E1820). With respect to fatigue, the fatigue crack growth rates were determined according to the Paris law by the standard procedure (ASTM E647) to evaluate the behaviour of different welded joint zones under amplitude loading. The results obtained for A516 Gr. 60 structural steel showed why it is widely used in the case of static loads, since the minimum value of fracture toughness (185 MPa√m) provides relatively large critical crack lengths, whereas its behaviour under amplitude loading indicated a need for further improvement in WM and HAZ, since the crack growth rate reached values as high as 4.58 × 10−4 mm/cycle. In addition, risk-based analysis was applied to assess the structural integrity of a pressure vessel, including comparison with the high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel NIOVAL 50, proving once again its superior behaviour under static loading.
Rice-Fish Farming Improved Antioxidant Defences, Glucose Metabolism, and Muscle Nutrient of Carassius auratus in Sichuan Province
Authors: Yan Tao , Xie Yun-Yi , Zhou Bo , Kuang Xu , Li Qing-Zhi , Zhao Feng-Qi , Li Qian-Dong , He Bin
Published: December 2024

Rice-fish farming is an ancient and enduring aquaculture model in China. This study aimed to assess the variations in digestive enzymes, antioxidant properties, glucose metabolism, and nutritional content between Carassius auratus reared in paddy fields and ponds. Notably, the levels of amylase and trypsin in C. auratus from rice paddies were considerably higher compared to those from ponds. Additionally, the hepatic catalase (CAT) activity in fish from paddy (2.45 ± 0.16 U/mg) exceeded that of their pond counterparts (2.27 ± 0.25 U/mg). Regarding glucose metabolism, the activities of key enzymes such as Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) (paddy: 82.45 ± 6.11 U/g; pond: 78.53 ± 7.18 U/g), hexokinase (HK) (paddy: 9.55 ± 0.58 U/g; pond: 8.83 ± 0.72 U/g), glucokinase (GK) (paddy: 4.09 ± 0.21 IU/g; pond: 3.44 ± 0.33 IU/g), glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) (paddy: 85.71 ± 4.49 IU/g; pond: 79.12 ± 9.34 IU/g), and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) (paddy: 47.23 ± 3.22 U/g; pond: 42.31 ± 4.93 U/g) were significantly elevated in rice paddy-cultured fish compared to those in ponds. Conversely, phosphor-pyruvate kinase (PK) (paddy: 418.15 ± 31.89 U/g; pond: 570.16 ± 56.06 U/g) activity was markedly reduced in the paddy group. Hepatic glycogen content (paddy: 15.70 ± 0.98 ng/g; pond: 14.91 ± 1.24 ng/g) was also substantially higher in fish from paddy, although no significant differences in muscle glycogen content (paddy: 7.14 ± 0.59 ng/g; pond: 6.70 ± 0.52 ng/g) were observed between the two environments. In terms of nutritional composition, fish raised in paddy exhibited higher crude protein (paddy: 18.46 ± 0.47 g/100 g muscle; pond: 15.57 ± 0.25 g/100 g muscle) and crude ash (paddy: 1.19 ± 0.02 g/100 g muscle; pond: 0.97 ± 0.02 g/100 g muscle) than those in ponds, whereas the crude fat (paddy: 0.87 ± 0.04 g/100 g muscle; pond: 1.66 ± 0.04 g/100 g muscle) was notably lower in paddy fish. Furthermore, fish from rice paddies had a greater total content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) (paddy: 4.25 ± 0.24 g/100 g muscle; pond: 6.73 ± 0.27 g/100 g muscle), non-essential amino acids (NEAA) (paddy: 9.04 ± 0.3 g/100 g muscle; pond: 7.19 ± 0.21 g/100 g muscle), and delicious amino acids (DAA) (paddy: 7.11 ± 0.2 g/100 g muscle; pond: 5.45 ± 0.19 g/100 g muscle) compared to those from pond cultures. These findings suggest that rice-fish co-culture systems can yield healthier and more environmentally sustainable aquatic products by improving feed digestion and optimizing nutrient metabolism.
Ratio of l-(+)- and d-(−)-Lactic Acids Produced by Enterococcus faecalis Changes Depending on the Culture pH
Authors: Matsunaga Kanako , Komatsu Yasuhiko
Published: December 2024

Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) has been associated with the specific production of l-(+)-lactic acid. However, in this study, d-(−)-lactic acid production by E. faecalis was observed under specific pH conditions. E. faecalis PR31 exhibited a significant amount of d-(−)-lactic acid under a stirring culture in MRS broth at pH 4.5, 5.8, and 6.0, and the contents of d-(−)-lactic acid were 45.1, 35.9, and 36.2%, respectively. When the cell suspension prepared at a pH of 6.0 was reacted with l-(+)- or d-(−)-lactic acid, d-(−)- or l-(+)-lactic acid was produced, respectively, in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Therefore, this phenomenon of d-(−)-lactic acid production in PR31 was suggested to be due to the activation of the larA gene encoding lactate racemase that is present in PR31. However, even in the E. faecalis-type strain NBRC 100480, which contains neither larA nor vanH, encoding d-(−)-lactate dehydrogenase VanH, d-(−)-lactic acid was also produced at specific pH values. Therefore, the production of d-(−)-lactic acid in NBRC 100480 was thought to occur not via the activation of larA. The biological significance of d-(−)-lactic acid production in E. faecalis depending on the pH and the detailed underlying mechanism, including whether it is the same in PR31 and NBRC 100480, remain to be elucidated in future studies.
Comparative Analysis of Bread Quality Using Yeast Strains from Alcoholic Beverage Production
Authors: Chen Anqi , Pan Chenwei , Chen Jian
Published: December 2024

The impact of yeast strain selection on bread quality was evaluated using a range of commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains, typically employed in various alcoholic beverage productions, to determine their effectiveness in bread making. The final products made from these strains were compared to bread produced using the commercial baker’s strain S. cerevisiae ACY298. Key parameters, including specific volume, hardness, pH, residual sugars, and organic acids, were thoroughly assessed. Among the strains tested, S. cerevisiae ACY158 produced bread with a specific volume of 5.0 cm3/g and a Euclidean distance of 0.895, closely resembling ACY298. In contrast, S. cerevisiae ACY9, with a specific volume of 1.1 cm3/g and the highest Euclidean distance of 6.878, exhibited the greatest deviation from ACY298, suggesting it may be less suitable for traditional bread production. Furthermore, ACY158 displayed a balanced organic acid profile and minimal residual sugars, aligning well with consumer expectations for bread flavor and texture. These results underscore that certain alternative S. cerevisiae strains have the potential to match or exceed the performance of commercial baker’s yeast, offering opportunities to optimize bread quality and diversify industrial baking practices.
Does Microplastic Contamination in Agricultural Soils Decrease the Efficiency of Herbicides for Weed Control?
Authors: Brochado Maura Gabriela da Silva , Magalhães Iara Barbosa , Soares Júlia Martins , Lima Alessandro da Costa , Bordignon Laura , Guedes Allana Grecco , Castillo Mariana Ramírez , Mendes Kassio Ferreira
Published: December 2024

The contamination of agricultural soils by microplastics (MPs) has significant implications for herbicide efficacy and soil health. This study investigates the effects of MPs on critical processes such as the sorption, desorption, and degradation of herbicides, highlighting their influence on these compounds’ mobility, persistence, and bioavailability. MPs interact with herbicides through sorption mechanisms, often reducing the availability of these compounds for weed control by retaining them on their surfaces. This sorption not only limits the immediate efficacy of herbicides but also alters their desorption process, resulting in a prolonged release into the soil environment. Additionally, MPs can inhibit microbial activity involved in herbicide degradation, increasing the time degradation of the half-life of these substances and extending their persistence in the environment. These processes collectively enhance the risks of bioaccumulation and environmental contamination. Understanding these interactions is essential for developing strategies to mitigate the impacts of MPs on herbicide performance and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
An Open-Pit Mines Land Use Classification Method Based on Random Forest Using UAV: A Case Study of a Ceramic Clay Mine
Authors: He Yuanrong , Lai Yangfeng , Chen Bingning , Chen Yuhang , Xie Zhiying , Yu Xiaolin , Luo Min
Published: December 2024

Timely and accurate land use information in open-pit mines is essential for environmental monitoring, ecological restoration planning, and promoting sustainable progress in mining regions. This study used high-resolution unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery, combined with object-oriented methods, optimal segmentation algorithms, and machine learning algorithms, to develop an efficient and practical method for classifying land use in open-pit mines. First, six land use categories were identified: stope, restoration area, building, vegetation area, arterial road, and waters. To achieve optimal scale segmentation, an image segmentation quality evaluation index is developed, emphasizing both high intra-object homogeneity and high inter-object heterogeneity. Second, spectral, index, texture, and spatial features are identified through out-of-bag (OOB) error of random forest and recursive feature elimination (RFE) to create an optimal multi-feature fusion combination. Finally, the classification of open-pit mines was executed by leveraging the optimal feature combination, employing the random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and k-nearest neighbor (KNN) classifiers in a comparative analysis. The experimental results indicated that classification of appropriate scale image segmentation can extract more accurate land use information. Feature selection effectively reduces model redundancy and improves classification accuracy, with spectral features having the most significant effect. The RF algorithm outperformed SVM and KNN, demonstrating superior handling of high-dimensional feature combinations. It achieves the highest overall accuracy (OA) of 90.77%, with the lowest misclassification and omission errors and the highest classification accuracy. The disaggregated data facilitate effective monitoring of ecological changes in open-pit mining areas, support the development of mining plans, and help predict the quality and heterogeneity of raw clay in some areas.
Wnt Signaling Inhibitors as Therapeutic Approach in Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Svetláková Barbora Boťanská , Líšková Viktória Pecníková , Barančík Miroslav
Published: December 2024

Wnt (wingless-type MMTV integration site family) signaling is an evolutionary conserved system highly active during embryogenesis, but in adult hearts has low activities under normal conditions. It is essential for a variety of physiological processes including stem cell regeneration, proliferation, migration, cell polarity, and morphogenesis, thereby ensuring homeostasis and regeneration of cardiac tissue. Its dysregulation and excessive activation during pathological conditions leads to morphological and functional changes in the heart resulting in impaired myocardial regeneration under pathological conditions such as myocardial infarction, heart failure, and coronary artery disease. Several groups of Wnt inhibitors have demonstrated the ability to modulate the Wnt pathway and thereby significantly reduce fibrosis and improve cardiac function after myocardial ischemia. Their inhibitory effect can be realized at multiple levels, which include the inhibition of Wnt ligands, the inhibition of Frizzled receptors, the stabilization of the β-catenin destruction complex, and the disruption of nuclear β-catenin interactions. In this review, we overview the function of Wnt signaling in responses of cardiac cells to pathological conditions, especially ischemic heart disease, with an emphasis on the use of inhibitors of this signaling as a therapeutic approach. Finally, we summarize the current knowledge about the potential of the targeting of Wnt signaling in therapeutic applications.
Anti-Collapsin Response Mediator Protein 5(CV2/CRMP5) and Anti-Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase (GAD) Antibodies-Mediated Encephalopathy Mimicking Atypical Parkinsonism
Authors: Schirò Giuseppe , Gastaldi Matteo , Iacono Salvatore , Scaranzin Silvia , Picciolo Valentina , Arnao Valentina , Ferrari Anita , Gagliardo Cesare , D’Amelio Marco
Published: December 2024

Background: Paraneoplastic neurological syndromes (PNSs) are rare conditions characterized by immune-mediated pathogenesis, frequently associated with the presence of a neoplasm. Although a single antineuronal antibody mediates a specific syndrome, atypical manifestations mediated by the same antibody have been described. Methods: The aim of this study was to report on an atypical case of PNS with dual positivity for anti-GAD65 and anti-CRMP5/CV2 antibodies, simultaneously characterized by cognitive decline associated with progressive ataxia and parkinsonism. We also reviewed the current literature for published cases of PNSs with parkinsonism associated with anti-GAD65 and anti- CRMP5/CV2 antibodies. Results: A 68-year-old man with an insidious onset of bradykinesia, cognitive decline, and gait instability that began the year before our evaluation had been diagnosed with parkinsonian syndrome. Analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid showed lymphocytic pleocytosis, and a panel for PNS tested positive for anti-GAD65 and anti- CRMP5/CV2 antibodies. After investigation, a microcitoma was found in the lung. Conclusions: In light of our findings, we suggest considering PNS as an alternative diagnosis to parkinsonism-plus syndromes, in particular if bradykinetic syndrome is accompanied by other clinical manifestations including cognitive decline or ataxia in rapidly deteriorating patients. Earlier detection of PNS would lead to timelier identification of any occult tumors, therein promising improvement in the patient’s prognosis.
The Nutrient–Skin Connection: Diagnosing Eating Disorders Through Dermatologic Signs
Authors: Rallis Efstathios , Lotsaris Kleomenis , Grech Vasiliki-Sofia , Tertipi Niki , Sfyri Eleni , Kefala Vassiliki
Published: December 2024

The interplay between nutrition and skin health provides a crucial lens for understanding, diagnosing, and managing eating disorders (EDs) such as anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge-eating disorder (BED). This review explores the dermatological manifestations resulting from the nutritional deficiencies commonly associated with EDs, including conditions like hair loss, xerosis, and brittle nails. These changes in the skin and its appendages often reflect deeper systemic dysfunctions, such as deficiencies in essential micronutrients (zinc, iron, and vitamins A and C), hormonal imbalances, and electrolyte disturbances. Recognizing these dermatological signs as diagnostic tools is vital for the early identification and intervention of EDs. By integrating dermatological observations with psychiatric and nutritional care, a holistic, multidisciplinary approach can be developed to address both the physical and psychological complexities of EDs. This review highlights the critical role of these skin-related markers in promoting timely diagnosis and effective treatment. To examine the relationship between specific nutrients and dermatological manifestations in EDs, a systematic review of three electronic databases—PubMed, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate—was conducted. The findings underline the importance of early recognition of these skin symptoms for effective management. Collaborative care involving dermatologists, psychiatrists, and nutritionists is essential for diagnosing and treating EDs. Such integrated efforts ensure a comprehensive approach to these multifaceted conditions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and enhancing overall care.
Ageism and Associated Factors in Healthcare Workers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fernández-Puerta Laura , Caballero-Bonafé Alexis , de-Moya-Romero Juan Ramón , Martínez-Sabater Antonio , Valera-Lloris Raquel
Published: December 2024

Background: Ageism refers to the presence of stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination against older adults based on their age. In healthcare settings it negatively impacts opportunities for treatment, rehabilitation, and cure opportunities. This study aims to assess the presence of ageism among healthcare workers toward older patients and to identify the associated sociodemographic, personal, and work-related factors. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was performed using PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Scopus. Studies that assessed the presence of ageism among healthcare professionals through a quantitative or mixed methodology and published between 2014 and 2024 were included. Results: Fifteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Healthcare workers generally exhibited low rates of ageism; however, results varied across studies. Although the available literature is limited, workers with less knowledge about aging and less experience, especially in geriatric units, showed higher ageism scores. Intergenerational contact and a wish to work with older people appeared to be important factors for promoting a positive relationship with older adults. Other sociodemographic and sociocultural factors, such as age and sex, were not related to ageism. Workload and work-related factors, such as stress or lack of personnel, might be associated with ageism, but few studies were found to be available to confirm these results. Conclusions: Ageism scores among professionals were low. Gerontological education and clinical and family experience could help reduce ageist attitudes toward older patients among health professionals.
Splash Basins in the Operating Room: Clean or Contaminated? A Study on Bacterial Contamination in Splash Basins Used to Rinse Surgical Instruments During Surgery
Authors: Michalsen Karoline Stavang , Helgeland Linda Helen , Dåvøy Grethe Myklestul , Reime Marit Hegg , Kvam Fred-Ivan
Published: December 2024

Background: Preventing postoperative infection and promoting patient safety are essential responsibilities of the operating room nurse. In some hospitals, splash basins are used to rinse instruments during surgery, although previous studies emphasise the risk of bacterial contamination. A recent systematic review calls for further investigation into surgical teams’ use of splash basins. Objectives: Our objective was to investigate bacterial contamination in splash basins and to identify the variables that may have an influence on this contamination. Methods: This prospective observational pilot study involved collecting, cultivating, and analysing water samples obtained from splash basins during operations performed in the thoracic and neurosurgical departments. The ventilation systems, length of surgery, number of instruments in the splash basin, number of persons present in the operating room, frequency of door openings during surgery, and type of bacteria were observed. Results: Bacterial growth was found in 44% of the final water samples: 41% from the thoracic surgical department, which had laminar airflow ventilation systems/unidirectional airflow ventilation, and 47% from the neurosurgical department, which had conventional ventilation systems/turbulent mixing ventilation. However, the binary logistic regression analysis revealed no significant correlation between bacterial growth and the ventilation systems, length of surgery, number of instruments in the splash basin, number of people in the operating room, or frequency of door openings. The most common types of bacteria found were coagulase-negative staphylococci and Micrococcus luteus. Conclusions: Splash basins become contaminated with bacteria during surgery. Therefore, using splash basins with sterile water is not recommended. Further research is needed to determine the best evidence-based practice for rinsing instruments perioperatively.
Clinical and Radiological Features of an Adenovirus Type 7 Outbreak in Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia, 2022–2023
Authors: Trogrlic Antea , Mrcela Dina , Budimir Mrsic Danijela , Jukic Ivana , Sardelic Sanda , Tabain Irena , Hruskar Željka , Nonkovic Diana , Markic Josko , Pavicic Ivelja Mirela
Published: December 2024

Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) are known to be highly contagious pathogens. They are commonly associated with mild respiratory infections in young children but can also cause severe life-threatening infections. Human adenovirus types 4 and 7 have frequently been reported to cause pneumonia in immunocompetent youths and adults. In this retrospective study, we analyzed the clinical, laboratory, radiological, and microbiological features, as well as the treatment and outcomes of an adenovirus outbreak in 185 patients who were admitted to the Emergency Unit of the Departments of Infectious Diseases and Pediatrics, University Hospital of Split, Croatia, between October 2022 and April 2023. An unusual increase in the frequency of adenovirus pneumonia was observed, especially in adults, followed by respiratory failure and complications such as pulmonary embolism. The most common chest X-ray findings were unilateral patchy opacity and unilateral reticulations (11.6%), followed by unilateral lobar pneumonia (7.1%). The predominant CT presentation was unilateral lobar pneumonia with multiple patchy ground glass opacities (23.5%) or lobar pneumonia with mixed opacities (17.6%). We found a low correlation between Brixia score and C-reactive protein in adults and no correlation in children. Adenovirus type 7 was almost exclusively isolated from patients with pneumonia. Most of our patients with severe or critical adenovirus pneumonia were immunocompetent adults without any medical history. So far, only a few studies have presented the radiological features of HAdV pneumonia, which generally did not reveal lobar pneumonia in a substantial percentage. Our research also demonstrated an unusual presentation of adenovirus infection complicated with pulmonary embolism, which has rarely been reported in previous studies. The aforementioned HAdV outbreak indicates the necessity for further research, especially in the context of effective antiviral therapy and infection prevention.
First Report of the Gene Mutations Associated with Permethrin Resistance in Head Lice (Pediculus humanus capitis De Geer, 1767) from Primary School Children in Istanbul (Türkiye) and Nagarkot (Nepal)
Authors: Batır M. Burak , Yasin Yeşim , Jaiswal Anuradha , Tabak Tuana , Kurt Özgür
Published: December 2024

Head lice infestation (HLI), caused by Pediculus humanus capitis De Geer, 1767, has long been a common global problem of school children. Permethrin is an old pyrethroid derivative that has been used commonly for its treatment, and it exerts its activity over the voltage-sensitive calcium channels (VSCC) of the lice. There has been a growing list of persistent HLI cases lately in the world among patients using permethrin, and knockdown resistance (kdr)-related point mutations on VSCC have been identified and reported from those resistant lice samples. The aim of this study was to investigate the gene mutations associated with permethrin resistance in head lice collected from primary school children in Istanbul (Türkiye) and Nagarkot (Nepal) for the first time. A total of 192 P. h. capitis adults were collected from school children aged 6–12 years in two cities (96 lice each). Following DNA isolation, the fragment of the VSCC a-subunit gene, which contained the possible mutation sites ((kdr-like M815I (ATG > ATT), kdr T917I (ACA > ATA), and kdr-like L920F (CTT > TTT)), was amplified in each louse by PCR, and the PCR products were sequenced and aligned, followed by frequency calculations for alleles, genotypes, and haplotypes. Using nucleic acid sequence analysis, it was revealed that M815I, T917I, or L920F mutations were present on the VSCC genes in the lice samples from both Türkiye and Nepal. In addition, genotypic analyses indicated the presence of all three mutations in the lice samples from Türkiye, while the T917I mutation was detected in none of the lice collected in Nepal. This is the first report of gene mutations associated with permethrin resistance in head lice collected from a group of primary school children in the largest city of Türkiye (Istanbul) and Nagarkot. High mutation rates were identified in the lice, especially those from Istanbul, which is concordant with our previous unpublished study, in which almost 60% of the examined lice of the school children (in the same school selected in this study) remained alive despite long-term exposure to permethrin in the laboratory. These initial results show that gene mutations associated with permethrin resistance are common in lice samples in Istanbul and Nagarkot, which may suggest the current need for the selection of new pediculicidal agents in HLI treatment.
Enhanced Metabolic Control in a Pediatric Population with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Using Hybrid Closed-Loop and Predictive Low-Glucose Suspend Insulin Pump Treatments
Authors: Bojoga Irina , Ioacara Sorin , Malinici Elisabeta , Chiper Victor , Georgescu Olivia , Sirbu Anca Elena , Fica Simona
Published: December 2024

Background: Insulin pumps coupled with continuous glucose monitoring sensors use algorithms to analyze real-time blood glucose levels. This allows for the suspension of insulin administration before hypoglycemic thresholds are reached or for adaptive tuning in hybrid closed-loop systems. This longitudinal retrospective study aims to analyze real-world glycemic outcomes in a pediatric population transitioning to such devices. Methods: We evaluated children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) admitted to the Pediatric Diabetes Department from a major University Hospital in Bucharest, Romania, who transitioned to hybrid closed-loop or predictive low-glucose suspend system from either non-automated insulin pumps or multiple daily injections. The primary outcome was assessing the change in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) after initiating these devices. Secondary outcomes analyzed changes in glucose metrics from the 90 days prior to the baseline and follow-up visit. Results: 51 children were included (58.8% girls), the mean age was 10.3 ± 3.7 years, and the mean follow-up duration was 13.2 ± 4.5 months. The analyzed parameters, such as HbA1c (6.9 ± 0.7% vs. 6.7 ± 0.6%, p = 0.023), time in range (69.3 ± 11.2% vs. 76 ± 9.9%, p < 0.001), time in tight range (47.4 ± 10.9% vs. 53.7 ± 10.7%, p < 0.001), time below range (5.6 ± 2.9% vs. 3.5 ± 1.9%, p < 0.001), time above range (25 ± 11.2% vs. 20.4 ± 9.4%, p = 0.001), and coefficient of variation (37.9 ± 4.8% vs. 35.6 ± 4.6%, p = 0.001), showed significant improvements. Conclusions: The application of these sensor-integrated insulin pumps can significantly enhance metabolic control in pediatric populations, minimizing glycemic variations to mitigate complications and enrich the quality of life.
Therapeutic Potential of Cinnamon Oil: Chemical Composition, Pharmacological Actions, and Applications
Authors: Guo Jiageng , Jiang Xinya , Tian Yu , Yan Shidu , Liu Jiaojiao , Xie Jinling , Zhang Fan , Yao Chun , Hao Erwei
Published: December 2024

Cinnamon oil, an essential oil extracted from plants of the genus Cinnamomum, has been highly valued in ancient Chinese texts for its medicinal properties. This review summarizes the chemical composition, pharmacological actions, and various applications of cinnamon oil, highlighting its potential in medical and industrial fields. By systematically searching and evaluating studies from major scientific databases including Web of Science, PubMed, and ScienceDirect, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the therapeutic potential of cinnamon oil. Research indicates that cinnamon oil possesses a wide range of pharmacological activities, covering antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and hypoglycemic effects. It is currently an active ingredient in over 500 patented medicines. Cinnamon oil has demonstrated significant inhibitory effects against various pathogens comprising Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and Escherichia coli. Its mechanisms of action include disrupting cell membranes, inhibiting ATPase activity, and preventing biofilm formation, suggesting its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent. Its anti-inflammatory properties are evidenced by its ability to suppress inflammatory markers like vascular cell adhesion molecules and macrophage colony-stimulating factors. Moreover, cinnamon oil has shown positive effects in lowering blood pressure and improving metabolism in diabetic patients by enhancing glucose uptake and increasing insulin sensitivity. The main active components of cinnamon oil include cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and eugenol, which play key roles in its pharmacological effects. Recently, the applications of cinnamon oil in industrial fields, including food preservation, cosmetics, and fragrances, have also become increasingly widespread. Despite the extensive research supporting its medicinal value, more clinical trials are needed to determine the optimal dosage, administration routes, and possible side effects of cinnamon oil. Additionally, exploring the interactions between cinnamon oil and other drugs, as well as its safety in different populations, is crucial. Considering the current increase in antibiotic resistance and the demand for sustainable and effective medical treatments, this review emphasizes the necessity for further research into the mechanisms and safety of cinnamon oil to confirm its feasibility as a basis for new drug development. In summary, as a versatile natural product, cinnamon oil holds broad application prospects and is expected to play a greater role in future medical research and clinical practice.