bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salicylic Acid Improves Yield, Fruit Quality, and Post-Harvest Storage in Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium L.) cv. Lapins Subjected to Late-Deficit Irrigation
Authors: González-Villagra Jorge , Chicahual Camila , Jorquera-Fontena Emilio , Falquetto-Gomes Priscilla , Nunes-Nesi Adriano , Reyes-Díaz Marjorie
Published: July 2024

This study evaluated the effect of salicylic acid (SA) application on yield, fruit quality, and post-harvest storage in Prunus avium subjected to deficit irrigation (DI). A field experiment with six-year-old P. avium cv. Lapins was performed under two water treatments: irrigation at 100% of crop evapotranspiration (ETc) [full irrigation (FI)] and irrigation at 60% ETc from the second fruit phase to harvest time (DI). A single 0.5 mM SA was applied to both water treatments at fruit color change. At harvest time, fruits were collected to determine yield, fruit quality, and quality during post-harvest storage (0, 10, 20, and 30 days). The DI reduced fruit yield (11%), fruit weight (8%), and caliber (6%) and increased firmness (7%) and total soluble solids (TSS) (5%) in P. avium compared with FI plants at harvest time. Our study showed that SA application recovered fruit yield (9%), fruit weight (5%), and caliber (4%), improving TSS in DI plants at day 0. Interestingly, SA application significantly reduced P. avium fruit cracking (78% in FI and 82% in DI). Fruit weight was reduced in all treatments, mainly decreasing by 14% in FI and 13% in DI plants at day 30 of post-harvest storage. Fruit weight did not change during post-harvest storage with SA, except on day 30, where a slight reduction was observed. TSS showed no significant differences during post-harvest storage for all treatments. Therefore, SA could be an interesting tool to mitigate the impact of DI on the yield and fruit quality of P. avium and to reduce fruit cracking and prolong fruit quality during post-harvest storage.
The Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction for Bioactive Compounds from Flourensia cernua and Jatropha dioica and the Evaluation of Their Functional Properties
Authors: Aranda-Ledesma Nestor Everardo , Aguilar-Zárate Pedro , Bautista-Hernández Israel , Rojas Romeo , Robledo-Jiménez Claudia Lizeth , Martínez-Ávila Guillermo Cristian Guadalupe
Published: July 2024

Flourensia cernua and Jatropha dioica are non-timber forest species that grow in the desert regions of northern Mexico. Currently, they are recognized as a viable alternative to traditional remedies used to address certain ailments. However, the low yields of bioactive compounds obtained propitiate the use of more effective extraction techniques such as ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) in combination with statistical models such as Taguchi to maximize the yields of bioactive compounds. The objective of the research was to determine the optimal conditions for maximizing the yields of purified polyphenolic compounds from F. cernua and J. dioica using the Taguchi statistical model. In addition, we evaluated the total flavonoid content, antioxidant activity (ABTS•+, FRAP, and OH• hydroxyl radical inhibition), and the in vitro evaluation of α-amylase inhibition and ex vivo hemolysis inhibition. Furthermore, a functional group analysis was conducted using FTIR. The optimization process revealed that the maximum yields of bioactive compounds for F. cernua and J. dioica were achieved with a particle size of 0.25 mm and 0.30 mm, temperatures of 60 °C for both, a water–ethanol concentration of 50% for both, and extraction times of 30 min and 5 min, respectively. The matrix bioactive compounds obtained contain flavonoid-type phenolic compounds, which exhibit properties such as inhibiting free radicals and acting as reducing agents; inhibiting α-amylase activity, which is involved in carbohydrate metabolism; and protecting red blood cells from damage by reactive oxygen species. Finally, the FTIR analysis allowed for the identification of functional groups associated with the polyphenolic compounds (O–H, C–H, C–C, C=O). These results suggest that both non-timber forest species are a rich source of bioactive compounds with potential for application in the agri-food and pharmaceutical industries However, it is necessary to carry out compound identification as well as toxicity analyses to guarantee the safety of these bioactive compounds.
Jucazinho Dam Streamflow Prediction: A Comparative Analysis of Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Silva Erickson Johny Galindo da , Coutinho Artur Paiva , Cardoso Jean Firmino , Bezerra Saulo de Tarso Marques
Published: July 2024

The centuries-old history of dam construction, from the Saad el-Kafara Dam to global expansion in the 1950s, highlights the importance of these structures in water resource management. The Jucazinho Dam, built in 1998, emerged as a response to the scarcity of water in the Agreste region of Pernambuco, Brazil. After having less than 1% of its water storage capacity in 2016, the dam recovered in 2020 after interventions by the local water utility. In this context, the reliability of influent flow prediction models for dams becomes crucial for managers. This study proposed hydrological models based on artificial intelligence that aim to generate flow series, and we evaluated the adaptability of these models for the operation of the Jucazinho Dam. Data normalization between 0 and 1 was applied to avoid the predominance of variables with high values. The model was based on machine learning and employed support vector regression (SVM), random forest (RF) and artificial neural networks (ANNs), as provided by the Python Sklearn library. The selection of the monitoring stations took place via the Brazilian National Water and Sanitation Agency’s (ANA) HIDROWEB portal, and we used Spearman’s correlation to identify the relationship between precipitation and flow. The evaluation of the performance of the model involved graphical analyses and statistical criteria such as the Nash–Sutcliffe model efficiency coefficient (NSE), the percentage of bias (PBIAS), the coefficient of determination (R2) and the root mean standard deviation ratio (RSR). The results of the statistical coefficients for the test data indicated unsatisfactory performance for long-term predictions (8, 16 and 32 days ahead), revealing a downward trend in the quality of the fit with an increase in the forecast horizon. The SVM model stood out by obtaining the best indices of NSE, PBIAS, R2 and RSR. The graphical results of the SVM models showed underestimation of the flow values with an increase in the forecast horizon due to the sensitivity of the SVM to complex patterns in the time series. On the other hand, the RF and ANN models showed hyperestimation of the flow values as the number of forecast days increased, which was mainly attributed to overfitting. In summary, this study highlights the relevance of artificial intelligence in flow prediction for the efficient management of dams, especially in water scarcity and data-scarce scenarios. A proper choice of models and the ensuring of reliable input data are crucial for obtaining accurate forecasts and can contribute to water security and the effective operation of dams such as Jucazinho.
Sense of School Belonging as a Mediator of the Relationship between Witnessing Bullying and Internalizing Symptoms
Authors: Doumas Diana M. , Midgett Aida
Published: July 2024

Bullying is a significant public health concern associated with mental health risks. Negative bullying outcomes extend beyond targets, with students who witness bullying reporting negative associated mental health consequences. Because bullying often occurs within the school setting, understanding the relationship between witnessing bullying and internalizing symptoms within the school environment can help shape school-based bullying prevention. The purpose of this study was to examine sense of school belonging as a mediator of the relationship between witnessing bullying and internalizing symptoms. We conducted two studies with middle school students (N = 130; N = 147) in which we used structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the mediational model. Results from Study 1 and Study 2 supported the mediational model, indicating that one explanation for the relationship between witnessing bullying and internalizing symptoms is that witnessing bullying negatively impacts students’ sense of school belonging, which in turn increases internalizing symptoms. Results from this study provide support for the importance of students’ perceptions of school climate in the development of internalizing symptoms related to witnessing bullying. Implications for school-based bullying prevention programs are discussed.
Skeletal Muscle UCHL1 Negatively Regulates Muscle Development and Recovery after Muscle Injury
Authors: Antony Ryan , Aby Katherine , Montgomery Morgan , Li Yifan
Published: July 2024

Ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) is a deubiquitinating enzyme originally found in the brain. Our previous work revealed that UCHL1 was also expressed in skeletal muscle and affected myoblast differentiation and metabolism. In this study, we further tested the role of UCHL1 in myogenesis and muscle regeneration following muscle ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. In the C2C12 myoblast, UCHL1 knockdown upregulated MyoD and myogenin and promoted myotube formation. The skeletal muscle-specific knockout (smKO) of UCHL1 increased muscle fiber sizes in young mice (1 to 2 months old) but not in adult mice (3 months old). In IR-injured hindlimb muscle, UCHL1 was upregulated. UCHL1 smKO ameliorated tissue damage and injury-induced inflammation. UCHL1 smKO also upregulated myogenic factors and promoted functional recovery in IR injury muscle. Moreover, UCHL1 smKO increased Akt and Pink1/Parkin activities. The overall results suggest that skeletal muscle UCHL1 is a negative factor in skeletal muscle development and recovery following IR injury and therefore is a potential therapeutic target to improve muscle regeneration and functional recovery following injuries.
Combined Pituitary Hormone Deficiency in lhx4-Knockout Zebrafish
Authors: Roisman-Geller Nicole , Pisanty Odelia , Weinberger Alon , Gajbhiye Deodatta S. , Golan Matan , Gothilf Yoav
Published: July 2024

LIM homeobox 4 (LHX4) is a transcription factor crucial for anterior pituitary (AP) development. Patients with LHX4 mutation suffer from combined pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD), short statures, reproductive and metabolic disorders and lethality in some cases. Lhx4-knockout (KO) mice fail to develop a normal AP and die shortly after birth. Here, we characterize a zebrafish lhx4-KO model to further investigate the importance of LHX4 in pituitary gland development and regulation. At the embryonic and larval stages, these fish express lower levels of tshb mRNA compared with their wildtype siblings. In adult lhx4-KO fish, the expressions of pituitary hormone-encoding transcripts, including growth hormone (gh), thyroid stimulating hormone (tshb), proopiomelanocortin (pomca) and follicle stimulating hormone (fshb), are reduced, the pomca promoter-driven expression in corticotrophs is dampened and luteinizing hormone (lhb)-producing gonadotrophs are severely depleted. In contrast to Lhx4-KO mice, Lhx4-deficient fish survive to adulthood, but with a reduced body size. Importantly, lhx4-KO males reach sexual maturity and are reproductively competent, whereas the females remain infertile with undeveloped ovaries. These phenotypes, which are reminiscent of those observed in CPHD patients, along with the advantages of the zebrafish for developmental genetics research, make this lhx4-KO fish an ideal vertebrate model to study the outcomes of LHX4 mutation.
Sex- and Gender-Related Differences in Obesity: From Pathophysiological Mechanisms to Clinical Implications
Authors: Koceva Andrijana , Herman Rok , Janez Andrej , Rakusa Matej , Jensterle Mojca
Published: July 2024

Obesity, primarily characterized by excessive fat accumulation, is a multifactorial chronic disease with an increasing global prevalence. Despite the well-documented epidemiology and significant advances in understanding its pathophysiology and clinical implications, the impact of sex is typically overlooked in obesity research. Worldwide, women have a higher likelihood to become obese compared to men. Although women are offered weight loss interventions more often and at earlier stages than men, they are more vulnerable to psychopathology. Men, on the other hand, are less likely to pursue weight loss intervention and are more susceptible to the metabolic implications of obesity. In this narrative review, we comprehensively explored sex- and gender-specific differences in the development of obesity, focusing on a variety of biological variables, such as body composition, fat distribution and energy partitioning, the impact of sex steroid hormones and gut microbiota diversity, chromosomal and genetic variables, and behavioural and sociocultural variables influencing obesity development in men and women. Sex differences in obesity-related comorbidities and varying effectiveness of different weight loss interventions are also extensively discussed.
Aortic Regurgitation in Bicuspid Aortic Valve: The Role of Multimodality Imaging
Authors: La Mura Lucia , Lembo Maria , Musella Francesca , D’Amato Marianna , D’Andrea Antonello , Izzo Raffaele , Esposito Giovanni
Published: July 2024

The evaluation of aortic regurgitation (AR) in bicuspid valve (BAV) is still a challenge because of the eccentricity of the jet, which may under/overestimate the regurgitation. The commonly used echocardiography parameters (such as vena contracta, pressure half-time, etc.) may not be useful in this kind of patient. A multimodality approach combining echocardiography, cardiac MRI, cardiac CT, and advanced technologies applied to non-invasive cardiac imaging (e.g., 4D flow and strain imaging) may be useful to better quantify regurgitation and to select patients suitable for valve replacement. This review provides an overview of the most recent insights about cardiovascular imaging tools and their utility in BAV evaluation, focusing on chronic regurgitation. We describe the role of multimodality imaging in both diagnosis and risk assessment of this disease, pointing out the advantages and disadvantages of the imaging techniques, aiming to provide a guide to clinicians and cardiovascular imaging specialists in choosing the best imaging tools to use.
Cytotoxicity, Biocompatibility, and Calcium Deposition Capacity of 45S5 Bioglass Experimental Paste and Bio-C Temp: In Vitro and In Vivo Study Using Wistar Rats
Authors: Benetti Francine , de Oliveira Pedro Henrique Chaves , de Andrade Maria Paula Bernal , Cantiga-Silva Cristiane , Sivieri-Araújo Gustavo , Dezan Júnior Eloi , Gomes-Filho João Eduardo , Diniz Ivana Márcia Alvez , dos Reis-Prado Alexandre Henrique , Souza Marina Trevelin , Zanotto Edgar Dutra , Cintra Luciano Tavares Angelo
Published: July 2024

The evolution of biomaterials engineering allowed for the development of products that improve outcomes in the medical–dental field. Bioglasses have demonstrated the ability to either compose or replace different materials in dentistry. This study evaluated the cytotoxicity, biocompatibility, calcium deposition, and collagen maturation of 45S5 bioglass experimental paste and Bio-C Temp, compared to calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) paste. The 45S5 bioglass and Ca(OH)2 powder were mixed with distilled water (ratio 2:1); Bio-C Temp is ready-for-use. Dental pulp cells were exposed to the materials’ extracts (1:2 and 1:4 dilutions; 24, 48, and 72 h) for MTT and live/dead analyses. Polyethylene tubes filled with the pastes, or left empty (control), were implanted on the dorsum of 16 rats. After 7 and 30 days (n = 8/period), the rats were euthanized and the specimens were processed for hematoxylin–eosin (H&E), von Kossa (vK), and picrosirius red (PSR) staining, or without staining for polarized light (PL) birefringence analysis. A statistical analysis was applied (p < 0.05). There was no difference in cell viability among Ca(OH)2, 45S5 bioglass, and the control, across all periods and dilutions (p > 0.05), while Bio-C Temp was cytotoxic in all periods and dilutions compared to the control (p < 0.05). Regarding biocompatibility, there was a reduction in inflammation from 7 to 30 days for all groups, without significant differences among the groups for any period (p > 0.05). The fibrous capsules were thick for all groups at 7 days and thin at 30 days. All materials showed positive structures for vK and PL analysis. At 7 days, the control and 45S5 bioglass showed more immature collagen than the other groups (p < 0.05); at 30 days, 45S5 bioglass had more immature than mature collagen, different from the other groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, Bio-C Temp presented cytotoxicity compared to the other materials, but the three pastes showed biocompatibility and induced calcium deposition. Additionally, the bioglass paste allowed for marked and continuous collagen proliferation. This study contributed to the development of new biomaterials and highlighted different methodologies for understanding the characteristics of medical–dental materials.
A Type of Ferrocene-Based Derivative FE-1 COF Material for Glycopeptide and Phosphopeptide Selective Enrichment
Authors: Wu Yu , Xu Sen , Ding Fengjuan , Zhang Weibing , Liu Haiyan
Published: July 2024

In this work, a new type of FE-1 COF material is prepared by a reversible imine condensation reaction with diaminoferrocene and diaminodiformaldehyde as materials. The material is connected by imine bonds to form a COF skeleton, and the presence of plenty of nitrogen-containing groups gives the material good hydrophilicity; the presence of metal Fe ions provides the material application potential in the enrichment of phosphopeptides. According to the different binding abilities of N-glycopeptide and phosphopeptide on FE-1 COF, it can simultaneously enrich N-glycopeptide and phosphopeptide through different elution conditions to realize its controllable and selective enrichment. Using the above characteristics, 18 phosphopeptides were detected from α-casein hydrolysate, 8 phosphopeptides were detected from β-casein hydrolysate and 21 glycopeptides were detected from IgG hydrolysate. Finally, the gradual elution strategy was used; 16 phosphopeptides and 19 glycopeptides were detected from the α-casein hydrolysate and IgG hydrolysate. The corresponding glycopeptides and phosphopeptides were identified from the human serum. It proves that the FE-1 COF material has a good enrichment effect on phosphopeptides and glycopeptides.
The Seasonal Diet of the Alien Parupeneus forsskali (Fourmanoir & Guézé, 1976) (Actinopterygii, Mullidae) from Cyprus
Authors: Michail Christina , Pyle Anna , Chartosia Niki
Published: July 2024

The alien Red Sea goatfish, Parupeneus forsskali (Fourmanoir & Guézé, 1976), is a Lessepsian migrant, entering the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal. This study explores its seasonal diet and biological traits in Cyprus, its non-native habitat. From August 2019 to July 2021, a total of 249 specimens were collected, ranging in total length (TL) from 5.8 to 27.7 cm, with a mean TL of 15.1 ± 4.54 cm (SD). These specimens were examined with respect to sex and season. Through various methods (F%, N%, W%, and IRI), the feeding habits of the species were analysed, revealing a diet dominated by Crustacea (mainly Decapoda) and Polychaeta, with the secondary consumption of Mollusca, Echinodermata, and others. Significant differences were found between males and juveniles and females and juveniles, with adults preferring Decapoda and juveniles Copepoda, while seasonal variations were mainly influenced by prey availability. The Red Sea goatfish exhibited ontogenetic niche shifts in its depth and habitat distribution, influenced by size and age. The trophic level (TROPH) of P. forsskali ranged from 3.22 to 3.46, corresponding to an omnivorous diet with a preference for animals. These findings suggest that P. forsskali is an opportunistic predator with a diverse diet, thriving in its new habitat and potentially impacting the local marine food webs by competing with economically important native species for resources.
Emerging Applications of Nanoparticles in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Oehler Josephine B. , Rajapaksha Weranga , Albrecht Hugo
Published: July 2024

Breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide, driving the urgent need for innovative approaches to diagnosis and treatment. This review highlights the pivotal role of nanoparticles in revolutionizing breast cancer management through advancements of interconnected approaches including targeted therapy, imaging, and personalized medicine. Nanoparticles, with their unique physicochemical properties, have shown significant promise in addressing current treatment limitations such as drug resistance and nonspecific systemic distribution. Applications range from enhancing drug delivery systems for targeted and sustained release to developing innovative diagnostic tools for early and precise detection of metastases. Moreover, the integration of nanoparticles into photothermal therapy and their synergistic use with existing treatments, such as immunotherapy, illustrate their transformative potential in cancer care. However, the journey towards clinical adoption is fraught with challenges, including the chemical feasibility, biodistribution, efficacy, safety concerns, scalability, and regulatory hurdles. This review delves into the current state of nanoparticle research, their applications in breast cancer therapy and diagnosis, and the obstacles that must be overcome for clinical integration.
Parameter Effects on the Static Characteristics of the Multi-Foil Aerodynamic Journal Bearing with Bump-Backing Foils
Authors: Jiang Yulong , Xu Bo , Zhu Qianjing , Huang Zhongwen , Gao Dongyan
Published: July 2024

Due to the complexity of lubricating characteristics in the variable-sectional and multiscale clearance, the absence of an effective prediction method and theoretical basis of multi-foil aerodynamic journal bearing with bump-backing foils needs to be further developed. Hence, a modified efficient static characteristics model has been established, of which the one-dimensional curved beam theory is integrated and the elasto-hydrodynamic influence is intelligently concerned. It can be used to well predict the influential mechanisms of operational, geometric, and physical parameter effects on the static characteristics, and the important variation laws are systemically clarified. It aims to furnish a more effective and computationally efficient method and theoretical foundation for this significant type of bearing and promote its engineering design and performance optimization.
Ni-B-PTFE Nanocomposite Co-Deposition on the Surface of 2A12 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Mei Shunqi , Hu Zekui , Yang Jinyu , Chen Jia , Zheng Quan , Lygdenov Burial , Alexey Guryev
Published: July 2024

The spinning cup, a crucial component of textile equipment, relies heavily on 2A12 aluminum alloy as its primary raw material. Commonly, electroplating and chemical nickel–phosphorus (Ni-P) plating are employed to improve the surface characteristics of the object. Nevertheless, due to the growing expectations for the performance of aluminum alloys, the hardness and wear resistance of Ni-P coatings are no longer sufficient to fulfill industry standards. This study primarily focuses on the synthesis of Ni-B-PTFE nanocomposite chemical plating and its effectiveness when applied to the surface of 2A12 aluminum alloy. We examine the impact of the composition of the plating solution, process parameters, and various other factors on the pace at which the coating is deposited, the hardness of the surface, and other indicators of the coating. The research findings indicate that the composite co-deposited coating achieves its optimal surface morphology when the following conditions are met: a nickel chloride concentration of 30 g/L, an ethylenediamine concentration of 70 mL, a sodium borohydride concentration of 0.6 g/L, a sodium hydroxide concentration of 90 g/L, a lead nitrate concentration of 30 mL, a pH value of 12, a temperature of 90 °C, and a PTFE concentration of 10 mL/L. The coating exhibits consistency, density, a smooth surface, and an absence of noticeable pores or fissures. The composite co-deposited coating exhibits a surface hardness of 1109 HV0.1, which significantly surpasses the substrate’s hardness of 232.38 HV0.1. The Ni-B-PTFE composite coating exhibits an average friction coefficient of around 0.12. It has a scratch width of 855.18 μm and a wear mass of 0.05 mg. This coating demonstrates superior wear resistance when compared to Ni-B coatings. The Ni-B-PTFE composite coating specimen exhibits a self-corrosion potential of −6.195 V and a corrosion current density of 7.81 × 10−7 A/cm2, which is the lowest recorded. This enhances its corrosion resistance compared to Ni-B coatings.
The Evaluation and Prediction of Flame Retardancy of Asphalt Mixture Based on PCA-RBF Neural Network Model
Authors: Yin Peng , Wang Haowu , Tan Yangwei
Published: July 2024

Warm mix flame retardant asphalt mixture can reduce the energy dissipation and harmful gas emissions during asphalt pavement construction, as well as mitigate the adverse effects of road fires. For this, this paper studies the design and performance of a mixture modified with a combination of warm mix agent and flame retardant, and the pavement performance and flame retardancy of the modified mixture are evaluated. Additionally, a flame retardancy prediction model based on the radial basis function (RBF) neural network model is established. On this basis, the principal components analysis (PCA) model is used to analyze the most significant evaluation indicators affecting flame retardancy, and finally, a three-dimensional finite element model is developed to analyze the effects of loading on the pavement structure. The results show that compared to virgin asphalt mixture, the modified mixture shows a reduction in mixing and compaction temperatures by approximately 12 °C. The high-temperature performance of the mixture is improved, while the low-temperature performance and moisture stability slightly decrease, but its flame retardancy is significantly enhanced. The RBF neural network model revealed that the established flame retardancy prediction model has a high accuracy, allowing for precise evaluation of the flame retardancy. Finally, the PCA model identified that the combustion time has a significant effect on the flame retardancy of the asphalt mixture, and the finite element model revealed that the displacements of the warm mix fire retardant asphalt mixture were lower than virgin asphalt mixture in all directions under the loading.
Study on the Preparation and Compressive Strength of Boron Mud-Based Basic Magnesium Sulfate Cement
Authors: Li Jiankun , Gu Xiaowei , Wang Shenyu , Hu Zhihang , Hu Ziyang , Li Xiaqing
Published: July 2024

The direct discharge of boron mud poses significant environmental hazards to soil and groundwater. Despite extensive research efforts, the reprocessing of boron mud has not yielded significant advancements. Recently, the development of magnesium cement has spurred interest in the reutilization of boron mud. However, the direct treatment of boron mud remains challenging, necessitating pre-treatment in most studies to achieve substantial results. Consequently, research on the direct incorporation of untreated boron mud is scarce. This study explores the feasibility of using uncalcined boron mud as a base material in basic magnesium sulfate cement (BMSC), composed of lightly calcined magnesia and magnesium sulfate heptahydrate. The effects of varying boron mud content on the compressive strength of the BMSC system were investigated. The results indicate that the 5·1·7 phase is the primary strength phase of BMSC. When the boron mud content is 30%, the uncalcined boron mud has a minimal impact on the formation of the 5·1·7 phase. Additionally, the 28 days compressive strength of BMSC-B30 showed a slight difference compared to the control group BMSC-C, registering at 66.7 MPa. TG-DSC analysis revealed that the presence of a small amount of boron mud inhibits the micro-expansion trend of the BMSC structure. Furthermore, XRD and SEM analyses confirmed that the addition of uncalcined boron mud does not significantly alter the phase structure of the 5·1·7 phase in BMSC. This study provides a foundational basis for the long-term development of direct boron mud treatment.
Ricci–Bourguignon Almost Solitons with Special Potential on Sasaki-like Almost Contact Complex Riemannian Manifolds
Authors: Manev Mancho
Published: July 2024

Almost contact complex Riemannian manifolds, also known as almost contact B-metric manifolds, are equipped with a pair of pseudo-Riemannian metrics that are mutually associated with each other using the tensor structure. Here, we consider a special class of these manifolds, namely those of the Sasaki-like type. They have an interesting geometric interpretation: the complex cone of such a manifold is a holomorphic complex Riemannian manifold (also called a Kähler–Norden manifold). The basic metric on the considered manifold is specialized here as a soliton, i.e., has an additional curvature property such that the metric is a self-similar solution to an intrinsic geometric flow. Almost solitons are more general objects than solitons because they use functions rather than constants as coefficients in the defining condition. A β-Ricci–Bourguignon-like almost soliton (β is a real constant) is defined using the pair of metrics. The introduced soliton is a generalization of some well-known (almost) solitons (such as those of Ricci, Schouten, and Einstein) which, in principle, arise from a single metric rather than a pair of metrics. The soliton potential is chosen to be pointwise collinear to the Reeb vector field, or the Lie derivative of any B-metric along the potential to be the same metric multiplied by a function. The resulting manifolds equipped with the introduced almost solitons are characterized geometrically. Suitable examples for both types of almost solitons are constructed, and the properties obtained in the theoretical part are confirmed.
Which Is the Best Surgical Approach for Female-to-Male Sexual Reassignment? A Systematic Review of Hysterectomy and Salpingo-Oophorectomy Options from the Gynecological Perspective
Authors: Dominoni Mattia , Gritti Andrea , Pano Martina Rita , Sandullo Lucia , Papa Rossella , Torella Marco , Gardella Barbara
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Transgender people are defined as individuals whose gender identity does not entirely match their sex assigned at birth. Gender surgery typically represents the conclusive and irreversible step in the therapeutic process, especially for the impact on the reproductive sphere. The increased awareness of gender dysphoria and the expanding array of medical and surgical options, including minimally invasive techniques, contribute to the gradual increase in the social impact of transgender surgery. There are several surgical techniques for “gender assignment”, such as vaginal, laparotomic, laparoscopic, and robotic, and the novel approach of vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery to perform a hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO). The purpose of this review is to assess the various surgical approaches (hysterectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy) for gender reassignment in order to determine the best option in clinical practice for the female-to-male population in terms of surgical outcomes such as operative time, surgical complication, hospital discharge, postoperative pain, and bleeding. Materials and Methods: This systematic review includes studies from 2007 to 2024. Special consideration was given to articles documenting the characteristics and management of female-to-male reassignment surgery. Finally, eight papers were included in this review. Results: The literature analysis considered surgical techniques ranging from traditional surgery to innovative methods like vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery and robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy. Vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery and the robotic approach offer potential benefits such as reduced postoperative pain and shorter hospital stays. While vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery may encounter challenges due to narrow access and smaller vaginal dimensions, robotic single-site hysterectomy may face instrument conflict. Conclusions: The conventional laparoscopic approach remains widely used, demonstrating safety and efficacy. Overall, this review underscores the evolving landscape of surgical techniques for gender affirmation and emphasizes the necessity for personalized approaches to meet the specific needs of transgender patients.
DXA Android-to-Gynoid Ratio and Cardiovascular Risk Assessment in Age and BMI Propensity-Matched Early Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Nistor Irina Manuela , Fica Simona , Martin Sorina Carmen , Mustata Theodor , Oprea Theodor Eugen , Sirbu Anca Elena , Barbu Carmen Gabriela
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: The literature suggests that physiological menopause (MP) seems linked with increased adiposity with a preference for intra-abdominal fat accumulation, greater than what can be attributed only by aging, which could magnify this period’s increased cardiovascular risk. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed two age and body mass index (BMI) propensity-matched subgroups each formed of 90 clinically healthy, 40–60-year-old postmenopausal women, within the first 5 and 5–10 years of MP. The 10-year ASCVD risk was assessed using medical history, anthropometric data, and lipid profile blood tests. The android-to-gynoid (A/G) ratio was computed using Lunar osteodensitometry lumbar spine and hip scans. Results: The A/G ratio was significantly higher for the subgroup evaluated in years 5–10 of MP than in the first 5 years of MP, even after controlling for BMI (1.05 vs. 0.99, p = 0.005). While displaying a significant negative correlation with HDL cholesterol (r = 0.406), the A/G ratio also had positive correlations with systolic blood pressure (BP) values (r = 0.273), triglycerides (r = 0.367), and 10-year ASCVD risk (r = 0.277). After adjusting for smoking, hypertension treatment, and type 2 diabetes, the 10-year ASCVD risk became significantly different for women in the first 5 years (3.28%) compared to those in years 5–10 of MP (3.74%), p = 0.047. Conclusions: In women with similar age and BMI, the A/G ratio appears to vary based on the number of years since menopause onset and correlates with either independent cardiovascular risk parameters like BP, triglycerides, and HDL cholesterol or with composite scores, such as 10-year ASCVD risk.
Application of Digestate from a Methane Fermentation Process for Supplying Water and Nutrients in Sweet Potato Cultivation in Sandy Soil
Authors: Kitaya Yoshiaki , Siqinbatu  , Endo Ryosuke , Shibuya Toshio
Published: July 2024

To develop technology to efficiently utilize digestate from methane fermentation in agricultural production, the application of digestate from methane fermentation for supplying nutrients in sweet potato cultivation was investigated in sandy soil. Different strengths of diluted digestate with water were applied to sweet potato plants as water and nutrient supplies to determine the appropriate strength of digestate from methane fermentation for sweet potato production in sandy soil. The growth of sweet potato cultivated with diluted digestate was also compared with that of sweet potato cultivated with a commercial chemical nutrient solution. The growth rate of the tuberous roots with the strength of 1/20 of the digestate was greatest among the treatments with different digestate strengths (1/80–1/2) and commercial nutrient solutions (1/4–1). Consequently, we proposed a sweet potato production system using a bottom irrigation method with digestate from methane fermentation, which will be applicable in semiarid regions. In conclusion, the results of this study can be effectively used in a regional agricultural system combined with a methane fermentation system and can contribute to increasing food production as well as the establishment of a resource recycling society.
Nanosheet BiOBr Modified Rock Wool Composites for High Efficient Oil/Water Separation and Simultaneous Dye Degradation by Activating Peroxymonosulfate
Authors: Lin Li , Xiao Si , Wang Chuxuan , Huang Manhong , Xu Ling , Huang Yi
Published: July 2024

The development of superlyophobic materials in liquid systems, enabling synchronous oil/water separation and dye removal from water, is highly desirable. In this study, we employed a novel superwetting array-like BiOBr nanosheets anchored on waste rock wool (RW) fibers through a simple neutralization alcoholysis method. The resulting BiOBr/RW fibers exhibited superoleophilic and superhydrophilic properties in air but demonstrated underwater superoleophobic and underoil superhydrophobic characteristics. Utilizing its dual superlyophobicity, the fiber layer demonstrated high separation efficiencies and flux velocity for oil/water mixtures by prewetting under a gravity-driven mechanism. Additionally, the novel BiOBr/RW fibers also exhibited excellent dual superlyophobicity and effective separation for immiscible oil/oil systems. Furthermore, the BiOBr/RW fibers could serve as a filter to continuously separate oil/water mixtures with high flux velocity and removal rates (>93.9%) for water-soluble dye rhodamine B (RhB) simultaneously by directly activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS) in cyclic experiments. More importantly, the mechanism of simultaneous oil/water separation and RhB degradation was proposed based on the reactive oxygen species (ROS) quenching experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis. Considering the simple modified process and the waste RW as raw material, this work may open up innovative, economical, and environmentally friendly avenues for the effective treatment of wastewater contaminated with oil and water-soluble pollutants.
A Novel Terahertz Metamaterial Microfluidic Sensing Chip for Ultra-Sensitive Detection
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Jia Keke , Ge Hongyi , Ji Xiaodi , Jiang Yuying , Bu Yuwei , Zhang Yujie , Sun Qingcheng
Published: July 2024

A terahertz metamaterial microfluidic sensing chip for ultrasensitive detection is proposed to investigate the response of substances to terahertz radiation in liquid environments and enhance the molecular fingerprinting of trace substances. The structure consists of a cover layer, a metal microstructure, a microfluidic channel, a metal reflective layer, and a buffer layer from top to bottom, respectively. The simulation results show that there are three obvious resonance absorption peaks in the range of 1.5–3.0 THz and the absorption intensities are all above 90%. Among them, the absorption intensity at M1 = 1.971 THz is 99.99%, which is close to the perfect absorption, and its refractive index sensitivity and Q-factor are 859 GHz/RIU and 23, respectively, showing excellent sensing characteristics. In addition, impedance matching and equivalent circuit theory are introduced in this paper to further analyze the physical mechanism of the sensor. Finally, we perform numerical simulations using refractive index data of normal and cancer cells, and the results show that the sensor can distinguish different types of cells well. The chip can reduce the sample pretreatment time as well as enhance the interaction between terahertz waves and matter, which can be used for early disease screening and food quality and safety detection in the future.
Association between Physical Activity and Phase Angle Obtained via Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis in South Korean Adults Stratified by Sex
Authors: Yang Jiwon , Yu Jiho , Kim Jinhyun , Park Euncheol
Published: July 2024

This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the association of various aspects of physical activity, including intensity, duration, type, and purpose, with the phase angle (PhA), an objective indicator of health, in Korean adults after stratification by sex. Data from the 2022 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a nationwide, representative, population-based survey, were used. In total, 3996 participants were included in the study. Participants self-reported their weekly intensity, frequency, duration of engagement in physical activity. PhA was categorized into two groups on the basis of sex-specific averages. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the relationship between physical activity and PhA, and proportional odds logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association between physical activity and different subclasses of PhA. A positive association was found between sufficiently active aerobic physical activity and PhA compared with inactive physical activity (sufficiently active, male: odds ratio = 1.952, 95% confidence interval = 1.373–2.776; female: odds ratio = 1.333, 95% confidence interval = 1.019–1.745). This association was further strengthened when aerobic physical activity was accompanied by muscle-strengthening activity (sufficiently active with muscle-strengthening activity, male: aOR = 2.318, 95% CI = 1.512–3.554; female: aOR = 1.762, 95% CI = 1.215–2.556) and vigorous-intensity activities (sufficiently active with sufficient vigorous-intensity activity, male: aOR = 2.785, 95% CI = 1.647–4.709; female: aOR = 2.505, 95% CI = 1.441–4.356) and when there was more leisure-time physical activity than occupational physical activity (sufficiently active with more leisure-time physical activity, male: aOR = 2.158, 95% CI = 1.483–3.140; female: aOR = 1.457, 95% CI = 1.078–1.969). Furthermore, the inclusion of muscle-strengthening activity made a significant difference in the values of PhA for males with insufficiently active physical activity (aOR = 2.679, 95% CI = 1.560–4.602). For females with highly active physical activity (aOR = 1.521, 95% CI = 1.068–2.166), the inclusion of muscle-strengthening and vigorous-intensity activities were significantly associated with higher values for PhA. This study can be utilized to provide specific suggestions for better health programs and can change perception that only occupational physical activity is enough. This study also indicated that PhA can be used for personalized health assessments.
Does Serum Uric Acid Mediate Relation between Healthy Lifestyle and Components of Metabolic Syndrome?
Authors: Huang Yan , Jing Hui , Wang Ziping , Li Zongkai , Chacha Samuel , Teng Yuxin , Mi Baibing , Zhang Binyan , Liu Yezhou , Li Qiang , Shen Yuan , Yang Jiaomei , Qu Yang , Wang Duolao , Yan Hong , Dang Shaonong
Published: July 2024

A healthy lifestyle is related to metabolic syndrome (MetS), but the mechanism is not fully understood. This study aimed to examine the association of components of MetS with lifestyle in a Chinese population and potential mediation role of serum uric acid (SUA) in the association between lifestyle behaviors and risk of components of MetS. Data were derived from a baseline survey of the Shaanxi urban cohort in the Regional Ethnic Cohort Study in northwest China. The relationship between components of MetS, healthy lifestyle score (HLS), and SUA was investigated by logistic or linear regression. A counterfactual-based mediation analysis was performed to ascertain whether and to what extent SUA mediated the total effect of HLS on components of MetS. Compared to those with 1 or less low-risk lifestyle factors, participants with 4–5 factors had 43.6% lower risk of impaired glucose tolerance (OR = 0.564; 95%CI: 0.408~0.778), 60.8% reduction in risk of high blood pressure (OR = 0.392; 95%CI: 0.321~0.478), 69.4% reduction in risk of hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 0.306; 95%CI: 0.252~0.372), and 47.3% lower risk of low levels of HDL cholesterol (OR = 0.527; 95%CI: 0.434~0.641). SUA mediated 2.95% (95%CI: 1.81~6.16%) of the total effect of HLS on impaired glucose tolerance, 14.68% (95%CI: 12.04~18.85%) on high blood pressure, 17.29% (95%CI: 15.01~20.5%) on hypertriglyceridemia, and 12.83% (95%CI: 10.22~17.48%) on low levels of HDL cholesterol. Increased HLS tends to reduce risk of components of MetS partly by decreasing the SUA level, which could be an important mechanism by which lifestyle influences MetS.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus NKU FL1-8 Isolated from Infant Feces Ameliorates the Alcoholic Liver Damage by Regulating the Gut Microbiota and Intestinal Barrier in C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Liu Haiwei , Fan Dancai , Wang Jin , Wang Yuanyifei , Li Ang , Wu Sihao , Zhang Bowei , Liu Jingmin , Wang Shuo
Published: July 2024

Alcoholic liver damage is caused by long-term or heavy drinking, and it may further progress into alcoholic liver diseases (ALD). Probiotic supplements have been suggested for the prevention or improvement of liver damage. This study was designed to consider the ameliorative effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus NKU FL1-8 isolated from infant feces against alcoholic liver damage. The mice were gavaged with a 50% ethanol solution and treated with 109 CFU of L. rhamnosus NKU FL1-8 suspension. The factors for liver function, oxidative stress, inflammation, gut microbiota composition, and intestinal barrier integrity were measured. The results showed that L. rhamnosus NKU FL1-8 could decrease the levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to 61% and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) to 50% compared with ethanol given by gavage. It could inhibit the expression level of malondialdehyde (MDA), increase superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) to relieve oxidative stress, and down-regulate the cytokines to decrease hepatic inflammation. After treatment, the level of triglycerides was reduced, and the expression levels of adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and the peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α) pathway were up-regulated. Additionally, the 16S rRNA sequencing analysis showed that L. rhamnosus NKU FL1-8 increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Ruminococcaceae, etc. At the same time, L. rhamnosus NKU FL1-8 could significantly reduce lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and enhance intestinal tight junction proteins. These results demonstrated that L. rhamnosus NKU FL1-8 could reduce the level of oxidative stress, fat accumulation, and liver inflammation caused by alcohol in the host. The underlying mechanism could be that L. rhamnosus NKU FL1-8 inhibits LPS by regulating the gut microbiota and repairing the intestinal barrier. Thereby, these findings support L. rhamnosus NKU FL1-8 as a potential functional food for the relief of ALD.
The Establishment of a Novel In Vitro System for Culturing Cytauxzoon felis
Authors: Weerarathne Pabasara , Reichard Mason , Miller Craig , Scimeca Ruth C.
Published: July 2024

Cytauxzoonosis, a highly fatal tick-borne disease in domestic cats caused by Cytauxzoon felis, poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to the inability to culture the parasite in vitro. This study aimed to artificially replicate C. felis infection and characterize in vitro replication kinetics. Concanavalin A-activated feline embryonal macrophages (Fcwf-4) were plated at 3–5 × 105 cells/mL and incubated with C. felis-positive blood samples from either a (1) chronically infected bobcat (Lynx rufus), (2) chronically infected domestic cat, or (3) acutely infected domestic cat with clinical signs of cytauxzoonosis. Temporal changes in parasite load were quantified by droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), and the inhibition of infection/replication was assessed using atovaquone, imidocarb dipropionate (ID), artemisinin, ponazuril, and neutralizing antibodies. Tick cell lines AAE2 and ISE6 were also tested for infection. In vitro inoculation with chronic infection led to transient replication, while acute infection resulted in sustained replication beyond 10 days post-inoculation. Atovaquone, ID, and artemisinin inhibited replication, and neutralizing antibodies prevented infection. The inoculation of tick cells in vitro indicated infection; however, parasite replication was not observed. The results of this study established an in vitro model for studying infection dynamics, assessing therapy efficacy, and testing vaccination strategies in cytauxzoonosis-infected cats.