bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food Security, Serum Carotenoids, and Mortality in US Adults: Findings from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Yang Jae-jeong , Washington Caretia JeLayne , Ratcliffe Maisey , Yoon Hyung-Suk , Karanth Shama D. , Blair Marissa Carmella , Reade Thomas , Crane Tracy , Braithwaite Dejana
Published: December 2024

Background: Increasing evidence suggests that serum carotenoids, an objective indicator of fruit and vegetable consumption, promote the development of cancer and other cardiometabolic diseases. Several studies have demonstrated the role of food insecurity in adverse health outcomes. This raises the question of whether the interplay of food insecurity and low carotenoid levels results in a disproportionately higher mortality burden.
Methods: In the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2001-2006), we incorporated data on serum carotenoids (α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, total lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin) and food security from 12,355 US adults aged ≥20. All-cause, cancer, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality were ascertained by linkage to the National Death Index through December 31, 2019. Cox regression was utilized to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
Results: After adjusting for sociodemographics, lifestyle, diet quality, and underlying medical conditions, all-cause mortality was significantly lower in individuals with higher levels of serum carotenoids (HRs [95% CIs] for the highest vs. lowest quartiles=0.70 [0.61-0.81] for α-carotene, 0.74 [0.63-0.87] for β-carotene, 0.78 [0.66-0.91] for β-cryptoxanthin, 0.65 [0.52-0.81] for lycopene, and 0.70 [0.61-0.79] for lutein/zeaxanthin). When stratified by food security status, these inverse associations were observed exclusively among individuals with high food security, with no associations among those with marginal, low, or very low food security (P-interaction=0.02 for lycopene, 0.08 for lutein/zeaxanthin, and >0.05 for the others).
Conclusions: In this nationally representative sample of US adults, low serum carotenoids and food insecurity were jointly associated with increased risk of mortality, even after controlling for a broad spectrum of sociodemographic, lifestyle/diet, and clinical risk factors. Our findings underscore the urgent need for social risk-targeted nutritional programs to reduce health disparities in the US.
A Comparative Study on the Structural, Physicochemical, Release, and Antioxidant Properties of Sodium Casein and Gelatin Films Containing Sea Buckthorn Oil
Authors: Kowalczyk Dariusz , Karaś Monika , Kazimierczak Waldemar , Skrzypek Tomasz , Wiater Adrian , Bartkowiak Artur
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of increasing concentrations (0, 1, 2, 4%) of sea buckthorn oil (SBO) on the structural, physicochemical, release, and antioxidant properties of glycerol-plasticized sodi-um casein (NaCAS) and gelatin (GEL) films. Ultrasonic treatment ensured effective homogenization of SBO in both types of emulsions, resulting in yellow-tinted semi-opaque films with relatively low mi-cro-roughness. Generally, GEL films exhibited lower UV barrier properties and solubility, but better trans-parency, surface hydrophobicity, oxygen barrier performance, strength, and antiradical activity compared to NaCAS-based counterparts. Despite reducing the surface hydrophobicity of GEL films, the presence of SBO significantly limited their solubility and water absorption. SBO, in a concentration-independent man-ner, improved the water vapor barrier properties of both films and increased the oxygen permeability of the GEL film. At the highest SBO concentration, the tensile strength of NaCAS- and GEL-based films de-creased by 27% and 20%, respectively, while their antiradical activity increased by 9.3x and 4.3x (based on time required for the half-neutralization of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals). Migration studies showed that at the lowest concentration, SBO was released (into 95% ethanol) approximately 2x faster from the GEL-based film than from the NaCAS film, whereas at higher concentrations, the trend reversed.
Evaluation of Piperacillin/Tazobactam Inappropriate Antibiotic Use in a UAE Rehabilitation Centre
Authors: Sadeq Haya , Said Amira
Published: December 2024

Piperacillin/Tazobactam is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is frequently used in hos-pitals for its effectiveness against a variety of bacterial infections. However, its misuse or overuse can lead to significant clinical and public health issues. The aim of this study was to evaluate the appropriateness of piperacillin/tazobactam usage in a UAE hospital setting. Methods: A retrospective, observational and cross sectional study was conducted. The study recruited all patients admitted to the hospital who have been prescribed Piperacillin/Tazobactam as an empiric therapy from Jan 2021 to Apr 2023. Patients’ medical records were retrospectively studied and reviewed. The appropri-ateness of the Pip/Taz use was evaluated according to the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) as well as the local hospital guidelines. Results: A total of 100 pa-tients’ prescriptions were ordered and reviewed. The main indications for initiation of Pip/Taz were UTIs and Sepsis by 30% and 18%, respectively. The overall rate of the empirical therapy inappropriateness was 38%. The inappropriate use of Pip/Taz pre-scriptions were either due to lack of bacterial culture request after starting empiric therapy (18%), continuing Pip/Taz despite bacterial resistance (8%), incorrect dosing for renal patients (7%), continuing Pip/Taz despite negative culture result (4%) and wrong dose (1%).Conclusion: This research study has revealed that the overall rate of Pip/Taz inappropriate use was high. This highlights the need to develop targeted initi-atives to overcome overprescribing of such broad spectrum antibiotics and ensure its long term effectiveness.
Moisture Protection for Granules Containing Deep Seawater Concentrate
Authors: Hartesi Barmi , Retnoaji Bambang , Sriwidodo Sriwidodo , Wardhana Yoga Windhu , Muhaimin Muhaimin , Dewi Mayang Kusuma , Muttaqien Sjaikhurrizal El , Chaerunisaa Anis Yohana
Published: December 2024

Background: Concentrated deep seawater is rich in minerals, including magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), potassium (K), and calcium (Ca), commonly used in multivitamin. When these minerals are served as solid forms, their nature are highly hygroscopic, making them prone in absorbing moisture. Consequently, development of a non-hygroscopic solid dosage form derived from mineral-rich concentrated deep seawater is highly in need. Methods: Prior formulation stage, the quality of the deep seawater was verified through physical, chemical, and biological assessments based on available Quality Standard. To provide solid form with moisture resistance, the deep seawater concentrate was formulated into granule by using fillers: Avicel® PH 102 and Lactose with 10% Florite® as dessicant. Comprehensive evaluations of the granules including organoleptic, physical properties such as Flow rate, Angle of repose, Compressibility and Loss on Drying had been conducted. These parameters were also evaluated during stability study for five months of storage. Advance verifications were also been performed by using instruments such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Results: The results indicated that the optimum moisture protection was provided by granule formulation using Avicel® PH 102 as filler (G-Av) either with or without addition of Florite® 10%. Stability study showed that the protection was effective either in ambient temperature or climatic chamber storage. Conclusions: Avicel PH 102 as filler provided moisture protection for deep seawater granules which highly hygroscopic in nature.
Clustering and Machine Learning Models of Skeletal Class I and II Parameters of Arab Orthodontic Patients
Authors: Midlej Kareem A. , Zohud Osayd A. , Lone Iqbal A. , Awadi Obaida , Masarwa Samir , Paddenberg-Schubert Eva , Krohn Sebastian , Kirschneck Christian , Proff Peter , Watted Nezar , Iraqi Fuad A.
Published: December 2024

Background: The main aim of this study is to introduce new classification methods for skeletal class I occlusion (SCIO) and skeletal class II malocclusion (SCIIMO) among Arab patients in Israel. We conducted hierarchical clustering to detect critical trends within malocclusion classes and applied machine-learning (ML) models to predict classification outcomes. Methods: This study is based on assessing the lateral cephalometric parameters from the XXXX center. The study consisted of the coded records of 394 Arab patients who were diagnosed as SCIO/SCIIMO, according to the individualized ANB of Panagiotidis and Witt. After clustering analysis, an ML model was established by evaluating the performance of different models. Results: The clustering analysis identified three distinct clusters for each skeletal class. The clusters variated in the degree of retrognathism and the vertical facial growth pattern, representing significant differences in the parameters ANB angle, Calculated_ANB, and gonial angle. Besides, SCIIMO clusters revealed substantial age differences between the different clusters. The general ML model that included all parameters to classify the patients showed an accuracy of 0.87 in the random forest and the Classification and Regression Tree. Using ANB angle and Wits appraisal only in the ML, an Accuracy of 0.78 (Sensitivity=0.80, Specificity=0.76) was achieved to classify patients as SCIO or SCIIMO. Conclusion: The clustering analysis revealed distinguished patterns that can be present within SCIO and SCIIMO patients, which can affect the diagnosis and treatment plan. In addition, the ML model can accurately diagnose SCIO/SCIIMO patients, which should improve precise diagnostics.
Covariant Hamilton-Jacobi Formulation of Electrodynamics via the Polysymplectic Reduction and Its Relation to the Canonical Hamilton-Jacobi Theory
Authors: Barbachoux Cecile , Pietrzyk Monika , Kanatchikov Igor , Kholodnyi Valery , Kouneiher Joseph
Published: December 2024

The covariant Hamilton-Jacobi formulation of Electrodynamics is systematically derived from the first-order (Palatini-like) Lagrangian. This derivation utilizes the De Donder–Weyl covariant Hamiltonian formalism with constraints incroporating generalized Direc brackets of forms and the associated polysymplectic reduction, which ensure the manifest covariance and consistency with the field dynamics. It is also demonstrated that the canonical Hamilton-Jacobi equation in variational derivatives and the Gauss law constraint are derived from the covariant De Donder-Weyl Hamilton-Jacobi formulation after the space+time decomposition.
Organocatalytic Packed-Bed Reactors for the Enantioselective Flow Synthesis of Quaternary Isotetronic Acids by the Direct Aldol Reactions of Pyruvates
Authors: Poletti Lorenzo , De Risi Carmela , Ragno Daniele , Di Carmine Graziano , Tassoni Riccardo , Massi Alessandro , Dambruoso Paolo
Published: December 2024

The utilization of the homogeneous (S)-2-pyrrolidine-tetrazole organocatalyst (Ley catalyst) in the self-condensation of ethyl pyruvate and cross-aldol reactions of ethyl pyruvate donor with non-enolizable pyruvate acceptors, namely the sterically hindered ethyl 3-methyl-2-oxobutyrate or the highly electrophilic methyl 3,3,3-trifluoropyruvate, is described as the key enantioselective step toward the synthesis of the corresponding biologically relevant isotetronic acids featuring a quaternary carbon functionalized with ester and alkyl groups. The transition from homogeneous to heterogeneous flow conditions is also investigated, detailing the fabrication and operation of packed-bed reactors filled with silica-supported version of the pyrrolidine-tetrazole catalyst (SBA-15 as the matrix).
Mechanisms of the Photomechanical Response in Thin-Film Dye-Doped Glassy Polymers
Authors: Ghorbanishiadeh Zoya , Bhuyan Ankita , Zhou Bojun , Sheibani Karkhaneh Morteza , Kuzyk Mark G
Published: December 2024

This work seeks to determine the mechanism of the photomechanical response of poly(Methyl methacrylate) polymer doped with the photo-isomerizable dye disperse red 1 with the non-isomerizable dye disperse orange 11 as a control to isolate photo-isomerization. Polarization-dependent measurements of the photomechanical stress response are used to deconvolute the contributions of angular hole burning, molecular re-orientation and photothermal heating. While photo-isomerization of dopant molecules is commonly observed in dye-doped polymers, the shape changes of a molecule might not couple strongly to the host polymer, thus not contributing substantially to a macroscopic shape change. To gain insights into the effectiveness of such coupling, we directly probe the dopant molecules using dichroism measurements while measuring the photomechanical response and find the coupling to be small enough to make photothermal heating the dominant mechanism. We also predict the fraction of light energy converted to mechanical energy using a model whose parameters are thermodynamic material properties that are measured with independent experiments. We find that in the thin film geometry, these dye-doped glassy polymers are as efficient as any other material but their large Young's modulus relative to other organic materials, such as liquid crystal elastomers, makes them suitable in applications that require mechanically strong materials. The mechanical properties and the photomechanical response of thin films are observed to be significantly different than in fibers, suggesting that the geometry of the material and surface effects might play an important role.
What Do Stress Calculations Reveal About Surfaced Gear Teeth?
Authors: Buzauova Toty , Smailova Baglan , Malashkevichute-Brillant Elena , Oktyabrov Omirzhan
Published: December 2024

Stresses in surfaced gear teeth, particularly at the interface between the base metal and the surfaced layer, have consistently drawn scientific interest. However, a review of the literature revealed that these questions remain unanswered. Until now, the stress-strain state of surfaced gear teeth has not been thoroughly investigated. In this regard, the issues addressed in this article are both relevant and of significant scientific interest.
The paper focuses on the calculation of cylindrical gear transmissions using analytical and numerical methods to determine contact and bending stresses. The results of analytical calculations are compared with numerical modeling data obtained using the Ansys Workbench software environment. A comparative analysis of the results is conducted, and discrepancies between the calculations are identified. Special attention is given to the analysis of stresses in surfaced gear teeth compared to solid ones. Unlike standard calculations for solid gears, this study focuses on the stress-strain state of surfaced teeth, taking into account their operational properties. For a more detailed analysis, the concept of the 'tooth contact angle position' is introduced, which allowed for an in-depth investigation of its stress-strain state. The obtained results help identify the specific behavior of restored teeth under load, which is particularly relevant for developing gear transmission restoration technologies and assessing their durability. Considering the operational properties of surfaced teeth enables a more accurate evaluation of their strength characteristics. This study is aimed at assessing the strength properties of gear transmissions with surfaced teeth and can be used to optimize their design.
Validity and Inter-Device Reliability of the OTBeat BurnTM Monitor to Estimate Heart Rate During Exercise
Authors: de Leon Matteo F. , Camic Clayton L. , Herring Matthew J. , Hill Christopher M.
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy and reliability of the OTBeat Burn heart rate monitor during an incremental test to exhaustion on a cycle ergometer. Twenty males (mean ± SD age = 21.1 ± 1.9 years) volunteered to complete a test to exhaustion on a cycle ergometer with OTBeat Burn devices placed on the forearm and upper arm with a 12-lead electrocardiogram used as the criterion. Heart rate was recorded every 30 seconds and averaged across each two-minute stage. Accuracy was assessed through calculation of mean absolute percent error (MAPE), Bland-Altman plot, and Lin’s Concordance Correlation Coefficient (CCC). An intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess inter-device reliability. Statistical significance was set at αt 0.05. The MAPE (± SD), Bland-Altman regression analyses, and Lin’s CCC values were 0.9 (± 0.6)% and 0.8 (± 0.5)%, r = 0.107 and 0.303, rc = 0.998 and 0.998 for the forearm and the upper arm monitors, respectively. The ICC for inter-device reliability was R = 0.999. Our findings indicated the OTBeat Burn monitors placed on the forearm and upper arm provided highly accurate and reliable values when compared to an electrocardiogram from low to maximal exercise intensities.
Validating Early Intracranial Pressure Detection and Identifying Intracranial Pressure Risk Factors in Adult Traumatic Brain Injury Patients
Authors: Muanjan Montira , Imurai Vimon , Chatchumni Manaporn , Yongsiriwit Karn , Hassajinda Kampanart
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is a life-threatening complication frequently observed in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Despite its critical impact, effective and non-invasive methods for early detection remain scarce. This study aimed to evaluate early detection strategies for ICP and identify key risk factors to improve patient outcomes. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted on 215 adult TBI patients from October 2023 to October 2024. Data were collected from electronic medical records, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores, and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) assessments. Statistical methods included Chi-square tests, Pearson correlations, ANOVA, and logistic regression. Results: A demonstrated significant negative correlation between ICP and GCS components—eye-opening, motor, and verbal responses—both at admission and during symptom progression (p < .01). Elevated ICP was positively associated with longer hospital stays and higher medical costs (p < .01). Changes in respiratory rate, a component of Cushing’s reflex, were significantly linked to ICP (p < .05), while other vital signs, such as pulse rate and blood pressure, were predictive of mortality and GOS outcomes. Logistic regression yielded moderate predictive accuracy for ICP detection, with an AUC of 0.74 (95% CI: 0.54–0.93). Conclusions: GCS and respiratory rate are critical indicators for early ICP detection, but the predictive model’s performance highlights the need for further refinement. Future research should explore additional variables, such as oxygen saturation, and incorporate advanced monitoring techniques to enhance predictive accuracy.
Mechanical Behavior of Auxetic Composite Panels for Civil Engineering Structures
Authors: Shaibakovich Sofia , Dontsova Anna , Nemova Darya , Olshevskiy Vyacheslav , Sergeev Vitaly
Published: December 2024

The subject of the study is the auxetic behavior of the cellular structure under compressive and tensile loads. This study experimentally assessed the auxetic properties of hourglass-shaped cellular structures. The experiments were conducted using 3D-printed polymer samples. The Poisson ratios of the structures in the compression tests were -0.06 for PLA samples and -0.05 for ABS. Two types of PLA samples with different shoulder structures were used in the tension tests. Type 1 samples had monolithic shoulders, whereas type 2 samples had cellular shoulders. The average tensile strength of the type 1 samples was 0.482 kN, whereas that of the type 2 samples was 0.416 kN, which was 13.7% lower. The elongation at failure was 35% higher in the type 2 samples (1.85 mm and 1.37 mm, respectively) than in the type 1 samples. The presence of an auxetic mesh over the entire sample contributed to the high deformation capacity of the sample. In further research, it is planned to create samples of fine-grained concrete with cellular structure.
Identification of Benzothiophene Derived Inhibitors of Flaviviruses by Targeting RNA Dependent RNA Polymerase
Authors: Wang Leah Liu , Karim Shazeed-Ul , Hand Aidan , Brunkhorst Ryan , Patersen Makenna , Altman Sarah , Liu Yi , Zhang Luwen , Bai Fengwei , Xiang Shi-Hua
Published: December 2024

Flaviviruses such as Dengue, West Nile, and Zika viruses are mosquito-borne RNA viruses that can cause serious diseases in humans. To develop effective drugs for treating these viruses’ infections, we create a new approach for developing common or shared drugs that may work for several different viral species of flaviviruses. It is based on the conserved RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), which is the key enzyme for viral replication. We built up a common structure of RdRps (POLcon) from their consensus sequence. A conserved Triple-D structural motif was identified at the active site of POLcon that has been used for virtual compound screening. We have identified three inhibitors that have potent activities against Dengue, West Nile, and Zika viruses. All these three inhibitors are Benzothiophene derivatives. This is the first report of Benzothiophene-derived compounds as broad-spectrum inhibitors for flaviviruses. Furthermore, our approach has provided a proof-of-concept that it is feasible to identify shared drugs for several different viral species of flaviviruses.
Efficient Stabilization Of Tocopherol By Complex Coacervation: Application Of Tannic Acid As Cross-Linking Agent
Authors: Delaporte Adeline , Grisel Michel , Gore Ecaterina
Published: December 2024

This study presents an innovative method for encapsulating α-tocopherol (TOCO) by complex coacervation, employing diisopropyl adipate as the carrier oil, and combining fungal chitosan (FC) with gum Arabic (GA) as biopolymers. This research specifically integrates tannic acid (TA), a naturally occurring and multifunctional polyphenol, as a cross-linking agent at different concentrations (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2% wt) to investigate its effect on the morphology and thermal stability of the FCGA-TOCO coacervates, representing an innovative addition to the literature. This study represents the first study combining both FC and TA, which exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, in order to develop biocompatible and multifunctional coacervates. Morphological and rheological characterizations demonstrated that the incorporation of TA promoted the development of a denser layer surrounding the oil droplets, thus enhancing intermolecular interactions. This improvement was evidenced by an increase in viscosity, as well as in both storage (G’) and loss (G”) moduli of the reticulated microcapsules. Stability evaluations and monitoring at 40 °C indicated that TA not only reduced thermal degradation but also significantly enhanced the retention of TOCO, achieving 81.7% retention after two months. These findings highlight the potential for creating resilient and multifunctional microcapsules, relevant for usage in different sectors.
Object Detection in Laparoscopic Surgery: A Comparative Study of Deep Learning Models on a Custom Endometriosis Dataset
Authors: Bondarenko Andrey , Jumutc Vilen , Netter Antoine , Duchateau Fanny , Abrão Henrique Mendonca , Noorzadeh Saman , Giacomello Giuseppe , Ferrari Filippo , Bourdel Nicolas , Kirk Ulrik Bak , Bļizņuks Dmitrijs
Published: December 2024

Laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis presents unique challenges due to the complexity and variability of lesion appearances within the abdominal cavity. This study investigates the application of deep learning models for object detection in laparoscopic videos, aiming to assist surgeons in accurately identifying and localising endometriosis lesions and related anatomical structures. A custom dataset was curated, comprising 332 video sequences and 354,906 frames. Of these, 17,560 frames were meticulously annotated by medical professionals. The dataset includes object-detection annotations for 10 object classes relevant to endometriosis, alongside segmentation masks for some classes. To address the object detection task, we evaluated the performance of three deep learning models - FasterRCNN, MaskRCNN, and YOLOv9 - under both stratified and non-stratified training scenarios. Experimental results demonstrated that stratified training significantly reduced the risk of data leakage and improved model generalization. The best-performing object detection model achieved high precision and recall across most classes. Despite these successes, the study also highlights the challenges posed by the weak annotations and class imbalances in the dataset, which impacted overall models performances. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the application of deep learning for enhancing laparoscopic surgical precision in endometriosis treatment. The findings underscore the importance of robust dataset curation and advanced training strategies in developing reliable AI-assisted tools for surgical interventions. Future work will focus on refining the dataset and exploring more sophisticated model architectures to further improve detection accuracy.
Sugar Asymmetry: The Evolution of De Novo Asymmetric Syntheses of Carbohydrates from Hexoses to Oligosaccharides
Authors: Hicks Ian , Kim Sugyeom , Sridhar Aneesh , O’Doherty George A.
Published: December 2024

The ability to recognize hidden symmetry in a highly asymmetric world is a key factor in how we view and understand the world around us. Despite the fact it is an intrinsic property of the natural world, we have an innate ability to find hidden symmetry in asymmetric objects. The inherent asymmetry of the natural world is a fundamental property built into its chemical building blocks (e.g., proteins, carbohydrates, etc.). This review highlights the role of asymmetry in the structure of the carbohydrates and how these stereochemical complexities present synthetic challenges. This survey starts with an overview of the role synthetic chemistry plays in the discovery of carbohydrates and their 3D structure. The review then introduces various de novo asymmetric synthetic approaches that have been developed for the synthesis of carbohydrates and in particular oligosaccharides. The two most successful strategies for oligosaccharide synthesis rely on diastereoselective palladium-catalyzed glycosylation. The first uses an Achmatowicz reaction to asymmetrically prepare the pyranose building blocks along with a substrate-controlled Pd-glycosylation. The other strategy couples a ligand-controlled Pd-glycosylation with a ring-closing metathesis for oligosaccharide assembly.
Microbial Diversity in Drug Naïve Parkinson’s Disease Patients
Authors: Papić Eliša , Rački Valentino , Hero Mario , Zimani Ana Nyasha , Rožmarić Gloria , Starčević-Čizmarević Nada , Ostojić Saša , Kapović Miljenko , Hauser Goran , Maver Aleš , Peterlin Borut , Kovanda Anja , Vuletić Vladimira
Published: December 2024

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder characterized by rigidity, bradykinesia and tremor. Several genetic and environmental causes of Parkinson’s disease are known, and there is emerging evidence of the possible contribution of the gut microbiome to the disease onset, severity, and response to therapy. While previous research has shown several differences in the microbiome of Parkinson’s disease patients under therapy, few prospective studies have included drug naïve patients. In order to evaluate the gut microbiome composition prior to therapy initiation, we collected and performed 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the stool samples from 49 drug naïve Parkinson’s disease patients and compared them to 34 diet and lifestyle-matched controls from the Croatian population (GiOPARK Project). While no significant alpha diversity difference was observed between the patients and controls, the differential relative abundance analysis showed an increase in Bacteroides fluxus, B. interstinalis, B. eggerthii, and Dielma fastidiosa in the drug naïve Parkinson’s disease patients compared to controls, while Alistipes, Barnesiella nd Dialister spp. were decreased in patients compared to controls. Insight into the gut microbiome of Parkinson’s disease patients prior to therapy implementation represents a valuable baseline dataset for further studies.
Comparative Feeding and Defecation Behaviors of Trypanosoma cruzi-Infected and Uninfected Triatomines (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) from the Americas
Authors: Killets Keswick C , Wormington Jillian , Zecca Italo , Chaves Luis Fernando , Hamer Gabriel L , Hamer Sarah A
Published: December 2024

Triatomines are vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae), agent of Chagas disease. Stercorarian transmission occurs when infectious parasites are passed in insect feces to vertebrates through the biting wound or a mucosa. Defaecating on hosts during or shortly after blood-feeding is therefore critical for transmission, and delayed triatomine defecation behavior has been posited to contribute to a low incidence of human Chagas disease in the U.S. We allowed nymphal T. cruzi-infected and uninfected Triatoma gerstaeckeri (Stål, 1859) and Triatoma sanguisuga (LeConte, 1855) to interact with restrained guinea pigs and measured insect feeding and defecation events; South American Rhodnius prolixus (Stål, 1859; Latin America) served as a comparison group. In 148 trials, 40.0% of insects fed, of which 71.2% defecated. Compared to R. prolixus, T. gerstaeckeri had >9 times higher odds of feeding, and T. sanguisuga fed longer. Observations of defecation while feeding occurred across all three species. The post-feeding defecation interval (PFDI) of R. prolixus was significantly shorter (4.54±2.46 minutes) than that of T. gerstaeckeri (9.75±2.52 minutes) and T. sanguisuga (20.69±8.98 minutes) and the PFDI between was shorter for TcI-infected insects. Triatoma gerstaeckeri and T. sanguisuga are capable of stercorarian transmission, although the calculated metrics suggest they are less efficient vectors than R. prolixus.
Advances in CDK4/6 Inhibitors: Transforming Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Santander Ballestín Sonia , Abadía Labena María , Avedillo-Salas Ana , Marco Continente Cristina , Arribas Blázquez Marina , Luesma Bartolomçe María José
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Breast cancer is the most common malignant neoplasm worldwide and the most prevalent among women. It represents the leading cause of cancer-related death among females. Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 inhibitors disrupt the cell cycle, inducing cellular senescence and, ultimately, apoptosis. Consequently, they have become a novel adjuvant therapy for the treatment of advanced or metastatic breast cancer characterised by positive hormone receptors and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) negative. Methods: A systematic review was conducted, analysing the available literature on cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 inhibitors published over the last five years. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding these drugs to the standard endocrine therapy for this pathology. Results: The combination of cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 inhibitors with endocrine therapy has been shown to improve progression-free survival, overall survival, and chemotherapy-free intervals in patients who received this combination therapy. Conclusions: The addition of CDK4/6 inhibitors to endocrine therapy in the treatment of advanced or metastatic breast cancer with positive hormone receptors and HER-2 negative has significantly improved PFS, median survival, and chemotherapy-free intervals compared to the use of hormonal treatments alone or in combination with placebo. Currently, CDK4/6 inhibitors are becoming established as a new standard treatment for this pathology, offering lower toxicity than chemotherapy. However, it is necessary to deeply investigate the mechanisms of treatment resistance and develop effective therapies to overcome them.
Relationship Between Bone Mineral Density and Body Composition According to Obesity Status in School-Age Children
Authors: Zhang Jin , Zhang Tian , Sun Huihui , Wan Naijun
Published: December 2024

Objective To investigate the bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition of school-age children with different obesity levels and explore the influencing factors of bone mineral density in obesity children. Method A total of 217 school-aged children (ages 6-12) visiting the clinic at Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, were enrolled. They underwent a series of examinations, including assessments of body composition, BMD at the distal ulna and radius, abdominal ultrasound, and blood levels of fasting insulin, calcium, 25-OH-D, etc. Statistical analysis was performed using R 4.0.3 software. Result The extreme obesity group (ExOb) exhibited statistically significantly higher body weight, BMI z-score, body fat index, muscle mass index, fat-free body mass index, body fat percentage, waist-hip ratio, fasting insulin, insulin resistance index, uric acid, and fatty liver incidence compared to the simple obesity group (SmOb) (P < 0.05). No statistical differences were found in height, BMD, BMD z-score, 25-OH-D, blood sugar, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and puberty development between ExOb and SmOb (P > 0.05). BMI z-score, body fat index, muscle mass index, and fat-free body mass index were positively correlated with BMD z-score in all samples and girls (P < 0.05). Body fat percentage and body fat index were identified as independent influencing factors of BMD z-score in SmOb and boys (P < 0.05). Conclusion In obese school-aged children, the BMD increases with the body mass index, and the percentage of body fat may be a negative factor affecting the BMD of school-age children with obesity.
The Prevalence of Falls Among Older Adults Living in Long Term Care Facilities in the City of Cape Town
Authors: Ebrahim Nabilah , Leach Lloyd
Published: December 2024

Falls are a prevalent health concern with a multi-factorial origin causing numerous complications for the older adults, especially those in low- and middle-income countries, such as South Africa. This study seeks to address the prevalence of falls among older adults living in different types of long-term care (LTC) facilities in the City of Cape Town. A total of 258 males and females aged between 60 – 95 years were recruited. Data collection occurred from September 2021 to January 2022. Participants were categorized into low, moderate, or high fall risk using the Fall Risk Assessment Tool (FRAT). Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics and fall prevalence. Chi-square test determined significant associations between facility type, marital status, educational level, and their relationship to falling. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient assessed associations between fall occurrences and various risk factors. Findings indicated the prevalence of falls was 32.6%. Falls were significantly associated with behaviours such as agitation or confusion, and other unmentioned risk factors. Participants living in Non-Profit Organisations (NPO), who had a lower education level and were single or widowed, indicated a higher fall prevalence. The use of antidepressant and antidiabetic medications were significantly linked to increased fall risk. These findings can inform future research and the development of strategies to prevent falls among older adults, particularly in LTC facilities.
Robust Stability Analysis of Grid-Forming Converters Dominated Grids Using Grey-Box Modeling Approach
Authors: Almawu Endalkachew Degarege , Cecati Federico , Liserre Marco
Published: December 2024

In the recent years, a continuous effort have been made for modeling and stability analysis of converter dominated grids. Ensuring stability in converter dominated grid presents a unique challenge, primarily due to manufacturers’ intellectual property (IP) protections. Determining the robust stability boundary of a grid incorporating converters from various manufacturers remains an area requiring extensive research. Recently, a grey-box modeling approach for studying interoperability has been proposed in literature. However, the existing methodology is solely suitable for grid following converters. This study bridges the gap by proposing GFM converters model which aligns with the methodology for analyzing interoperability of GFL converters. The model is designed to represent a range of control system implementations across different manufacturers. Using robust control theory, this approach assesses the grid’s stability margin and sensitivity analysis of the uncertain control loops under various conditions considering a single GFM converter. The results are validated both analytically and through real time hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test to demonstrate the model’s accuracy in predicting robust stability margin and the sensitive of the control loops in GFM converters dominated grids.
Small Disulfide Proteins with Antifungal Impact: NMR Experimental Structures as Compared to Models of Alphafold Versions
Authors: Gai Jiawei , File Márk , Erdei Réka , Czajlik András , Marx Florentine , Galgóczy Lászó , Váradi Györgyi , Batta Gyula
Published: December 2024

In response to the growing challenge of emerging resistance to conventional antifungal drugs, antifungal proteins (AFPs) of filamentous Ascomycetes origin such as PAF, PAFB, and AFPg, have been discovered in recent years. Understanding the structure of AFPs is crucial for elucidating their antifungal mechanisms and provides a theoretical foundation for the design of new therapeutic agents. While nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) has proven effective in determining the structures of small proteins, some AFPs structures remain unresolved, necessitating the use of alternative structural prediction methods. Through bioinformatics analysis and heatmaps of amino acid sequence identity and similarity matrix, we categorized AFPs into three major classes and six subcategories, revealing structural and bioactivity differences. We employed AlphaFold (AF) to predict the 3D structures of six different AFPs and compared these predictions with NMR-derived structures to assess the accuracy of AF predictions. The results demonstrated a high degree of consistency between AF and NMR structures, with AF excelling in structural quality assessment and accurately capturing complex disulfide bond patterns. Further analysis revealed that both AF2 and AF3 models outperform the NMR model in overall structural quality and coherence, with AF3 showing the best performance. This study verifies the reliability of AF in the structural prediction of cysteine-rich AFPs, offering important support for the rational design of new protein-based antifungal drugs.
Enterobacter asburiae: A Novel Cellulose-Degrading Soil Microorganism Capable of Utilizing Cellulose as the Sole Carbon Source
Authors: Luo Zhan , Lyu Shang , Lyu Zhengbing , Gai Qijing , Chen Jianqing , Chen Guodong
Published: December 2024

Cellulose, a major component of plant biomass, plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle. This study focuses on the isolation and characterization of Enterobacter asburiae from forest soil, demonstrating its ability to utilize cellulose as its sole carbon source. The strain was identified and confirmed through 16S rDNA sequencing and BLAST analysis. Addi-tionally, we explored the organism’s genetic potential by identifying two glycoside hydrolase genes, EA.GH1 and EA.GH2, within its genome. These genes exhibit substrate specificity, effectively degrading dextran and p-nitrophenyl-β-D-glucopyranoside, but not cellobiose or lactose. Optimal enzyme activity was observed at pH 5.0 and 50 °C. The findings suggest that Enterobacter asburiae has potential applications in enhancing cel-lulose degradation in livestock feed, thereby improving nutrient absorption and overall feed efficiency.
Hybridization in Metal-Wire Additive Manufacturing: A Case Study of an Impeller
Authors: Karade Shahu R. , Siddhartha Siddhartha , Gupta Neel Kamal , G Ganesan , Karunakaran K. P. , Zeidler Henning
Published: December 2024

Rapid prototyping has advanced into additive manufacturing (AM), enabling direct production of functional components through a hybrid approach combining additive and subtractive processes. In metal-wire AM, arc and laser energy sources are common, with geometry complexity influencing kinematic choices (3/4/5 axis) and necessitating tailored slicing techniques. Whereas this paper explores various levels of hybridization, essential for creating functional components using the metal-wire AM process. These levels encompass process hybridization (addition/subtraction), energy source hybridization (arc/laser), kinematics hybridization (3/4/5 axis), and slicing technique hybridization (planar/conformal). A unified system was designed to accommodate all levels of hybridization on a single machine with a single setup that minimizes the time and improves accuracy. The study presents a detailed exploration of these hybridization levels through the fabrication of a complex 5-axis geometry—an impeller. The impeller was manufactured with hybridization using various levels and subsequently compared with manufacturing processes like additive manufacturing with interlayer machining and traditional machining methods. The hybrid approach significantly reduced the manufacturing time for the selected impeller geometry from 3536 minutes to 792 minutes (saving 77.6% manufacturing time) and minimized material waste to 9.3%, compared to 74.07% in traditional machining. This demonstrates a more efficient, precise, and cost-effective method for producing complex metal components. Furthermore, it offers critical insights into the effectiveness of this hybrid method by optimizing metal-wire AM processes for intricate geometries, thereby advancing the capabilities and applications of metal-wire AM technology.
Digital Forensics for Vulnerability Personal Data on E-Commerce Platform (Case Study: Tokopedia Customer Data)
Authors: Uriawan Wisnu , Musthofa Alfian , Eka Putra Sutrisno Andhika , Inayat Ali Fadilah
Published: December 2024

In the context of rapid e-commerce growth in Indonesia, the Tokopedia data leak incident of May 2020 underscores the pressing need for robust personal data protection mechanisms. This research explores the legal and technical dimensions of the breach, assessing its impact on consumer trust and the overall integrity of e-commerce platforms. It highlights the vulnerabilities associated with increased internet usage and the corresponding rise in data security risks. Furthermore, the study examines the challenges and opportunities in securing sensitive data, particularly in sectors like healthcare, where patient information is critical. By employing a qualitative approach to analyze consumer behavior in online purchases, particularly of electronic products, this research aims to propose effective security measures and best practices for e-commerce platforms to enhance user confidence and foster a safer digital commerce environment.
Sustainable Management of Energy Storage in Electric Vehicles Involved in a Smart Urban Environment
Authors: Razek Adel
Published: December 2024

Electric vehicles are increasingly used for green transportation in smart urban mobility, thus protecting environmental biodiversity and the ecosystem. Energy storage by electric vehicle batteries is a critical point of this ecologically responsible transportation. This storage is strongly linked to the different external managements related to its capacity state. The latter concerns the interconnection of storage to energy resources, charging strategies and their complexity. In an elegant urban context, charging strategies would use wireless devices. These may involve complex frames and unwanted electromagnetic field interferences. Sustainable management of wireless devices and battery state conditions allows for optimized operation and minimized adverse effects. Such management includes sustainable design of devices and monitoring of complex connected procedures. The present contribution aims to analyze this management and to highlight the mathematical routines enabling the design and control tasks involved. The investigations involved are closely related to responsible attitude, “One Health” and twin supervision approaches. The sections of the article are related to: electric vehicle in smart mobility, sustainable design and control, electromagnetic exposures, governance of physical and mathematical representation, charging routines, protection against adverse effects and supervision of complex connected vehicles. The research presented in this article is supported by examples from the literature.
Phytochemical Research and Screening of Pharmacological Activity in Eryngium planum L. Herb Extracts
Authors: Matiusha Ksenia , Grytsyk Andriy , Hrytsyk Roman , Raal Ain , Koshovyi Oleh
Published: December 2024

Species of the genus Eryngium L. of the Apiaceae family are successfully used in folk medicine in various countries worldwide, but they are hardly implemented in official medicinal and pharmaceutical practices. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct phytochemical and pharmacological research in E. planum L. herb extracts to develop and implement new phytomedicines based on this raw material. Purified water, 40% and 70% ethanol were used for obtaining soft extracts. Totally 7 hydroxycinnamic acids, 6 flavonoids, and 3 tannin metabolites were identified and quantified in the E. planum extracts by HPLC. These extracts were characterized as practically non-toxic medicines (V toxicity class, LD50> 5000 mg/kg). The E. planum extracts have shown a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect in experimental formalin oedema. The hepatoprotective activity of the E. planum extracts has been established. They were affected to reduce serum thiobarbituric acid (TBA) levels by 29.3%, 31.5% and 32.4%, respectively, compared to untreated animals and in liver homogenate by 59.5%, 65.4% and 66.8%, respectively. Alanine transaminase (ALT) activity decreased by 26.9%, 30.8% and 33.8%, respectively. Aspartate transaminase (AST) activity decreased by 23.9 %, 25.7 % and 30.5 %, respectively. The 70% ethanol extract has the most pronounced sedative effect due to a significant decrease in motor activity and a moderate antibacterial effect against gram-positive microorganisms. The most promising is the 70% ethanol extract of E. planum herb, which requires further preclinical and clinical studies.
Visual Target-Driven Robot Crowd Navigation with Limited FOV Using Self-Attention Enhanced Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Li Yinbei , Lyu Qingyang , Yang Jiaqiang , Salam Yasir , Wang Baixiang
Published: December 2024

Navigating crowded environments poses significant challenges for mobile robots, particularly as traditional Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM)-based methods often struggle with dynamic and unpredictable settings. This paper proposes a visual target-driven navigation method using self-attention enhanced deep reinforcement learning (DRL) to overcome these limitations. The navigation policy is developed based on the Twin-Delayed Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (TD3) algorithm, enabling efficient obstacle avoidance and target pursuit. We utilize a single RGB-D camera with a limited field of view (FOV) for target detection and surrounding sensing, where environmental features are extracted from depth data via a convolutional neural network (CNN). A self-attention network (SAN) is employed to compensate for the limited FOV, enhancing the robot’s capability of searching for the target when it is temporarily lost. Experimental results show that our method achieves a higher success rate and shorter average target-reaching time in dynamic environments, while offering hardware simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and ease of deployment in real-world applications.