bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acceleration of Neutral Atoms by Strong Short-wavelength Short-range Electromagnetic Pulses
Authors: Melezhik Vladimir S. , Shadmehri Sara
Published: October 2023

Nondipole terms in the atom-laser interaction arising due to the presence of a magnetic component in an electromagnetic wave and its inhomogeneity lead to nonseparability of the center-of-mass (CM) and electron variables in the neutral atom and, as a consequence, to its acceleration. We investigate this effect as well as the accompanying excitation and ionization processes for the hydrogen atom in strong (1012 - 2×1014 W/cm2) linearly polarized short-wavelength (5eV ≲ℏω≲ 27 eV) electromagnetic pulses of about 8 fs duration. The study has been carried out within the framework of a hybrid quantum-quasiclassical approach in which the coupled time-dependent Schrödinger equation for an electron and the classical Hamilton equations for the CM of an atom are simultaneously integrated. Optimal conditions with respect to the frequency and intensity of the electromagnetic wave for the acceleration of atoms without their noticeable ionization are found in the analyzed region.
Diagnostic Approach to Lower Limbs Entrapment Neuropathies. A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Drăghici Nicu Cătălin , Vacaras Vitalie , Bolchis Roxana , Bashimov Atamyrat , Domnița Diana Maria , Ilut Silvina , Popa Livia Livinț , Lupescu Tudor Dimitrie , Mureșanu Dafin Fior
Published: October 2023

Entrapment neuropathies of the lower limb are a misunderstood and underdiagnosed group of disorders, characterized by pain and dysesthesia, muscular weakness, and specific provoking movements on physical examination. The most frequent of these syndromes encountered in clinical practice are fibular nerve entrapment, proximal tibial neuropathy, sural nerve neuropathy, deep gluteal syndrome or sciatic nerve entrapment and lateral femoral cutaneous nerve entrapment, also known as meralgia paresthetica. They are commonly mistaken for lumbar plexopathies, radiculopathies, and musculotendinous diseases, which appear even more frequently and have overlapping clinical presentations. A comprehensive anamnesis, physical examination, and electrodiagnostic studies should help clarify the diagnosis. If the diagnosis is still unclear or a secondary cause of entrapment is suspected, magnetic resonance neurography, MRI or ultrasonography should be conducted to clarify the etiology, rule out other diseases and confirm the diagnosis. Moreover, clinicians should gain familiarity with this disease and their diagnostic confidence should increase, leading to early diagnosis of nerve damage and prevention of muscle atrophy. The reviewed and updated epidemiology, anatomy, pathophysiology, etiology, clinical presentation and EDX technique and interpretation of the entrapment neuropathies of the lower limb are further described in this article.
Molecular and Associative Evaluation of ERG11, ERG3, CDR1, and SNQ2 Genes Linked to Fluconazole Resistance in Candida glabrata in a Colombian Population
Authors: Cárdenas Parra Leidy Yurany , Rojas Rodríguez Ana Elisa , Pérez Cárdenas Jorge Enrique , Pérez-Agudelo Juan Manuel
Published: October 2023

The resistance of Candida spp to fluconazole is a serious problem; Therefore, it must be investigated to expand the understanding of the phenomenon with a view to its clinical applicability. The aim was to evaluate the expression of ERG3, ERG11, CDR1, and SNQ2 genes involving computational analysis. Relative expression was quantified by RT-qPCR. Metrics were obtained by molecular docking and through Fisher's discriminant functions, a predictive classification against susceptibility to fluconazole was performed. The expression of ERG3, CDR1, and SNQ2 genes was higher in resistant strains than in dose-dependent sensitive strains. The gene with the highest expression in strains exposed to fluconazole was CDR1 and, in both resistant and dose-dependent sensitive strains exposed to fluconazole, the ERG11 gene had lower expression. The molecular docking model generated lower median fluconazole-ERG11 contacts than the median fluconazole-ERG3, -CDR1, and -SNQ2 contacts. The predicted classification through the multivariate model for fluconazole sensitivity obtained an accuracy of 73.5%. Resistant strains had a significant expression of CDR1, SNQ2 and ERG3 genes, compared to a comparatively low expression of ERG11. Molecular analysis identified a low affinity between fluconazole and its drug target, which may explain a lower intrinsic susceptibility of the fungus.
Two Interference Mechanisms of Identical Particles in Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Wang Huai-Yu
Published: October 2023

The phenomenon of interference is a characteristic of all waves. This paper reviews the interference of classical waves and of matter waves in quantum mechanics. In quantum mechanics, there are two interference mechanisms between identical particles. One is that the de Broglie wavelengths of two interference waves are the same, which is called the equal wavelength interference mechanism. The other is that the wavelengths of interference waves can also be different, in which case there should be an exchange term in additional to the direction term in the wave function. There is a fixed phase difference between the two terms, which causes interference. This is called exchange effect interference mechanism. We propose an experiment, which is simpler to what has been done, to show the exchange effect interference. There is a special case where two interference waves can satisfy both the two mechanisms. We propose an experiment to discriminate that in this case which mechanism plays a role on earth.
An Impact-Centered Sustainable Positive Experience Design Model
Authors: Wu Chunmao , Wang Xuan
Published: October 2023

The pursuit of sustainable wellbeing is one of the research objectives of positive experience design. Driven by this goal, the purpose of this paper is to provide an impact-centered sustainable positive experience design model. Firstly, the literature review method was used to define the research status and concept of impact-centered sustainable design. Secondly, an impact-centered sustainable positive experience design model was constructed, and relevant formulas for concept generation and concept evaluation were proposed. Thirdly, design verification was conducted through a workshop. Finally, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) questionnaire was used to evaluate and discuss the design model. An impact-centered sustainable positive design model was proposed, which includes the important impact dimensions of sensory experience and meaningful experience on users’ quality of life at different levels: healthy living (pleasure index, health behavior), harmonious community (social connectivity, social contribution), and livable environment (living environment, environmental contribution). Based on positive experience related theory, this study takes long-term impacts as the starting point for sustainable positive experience design, which helps designers to generate design concepts from a systematic and long-term perspective.
Influence of Fermentation Time on the Chemical and Functional Composition of Different Cocoa Clones from Southern Colombia
Authors: Polanía-Hincapié Paola Andrea , Suárez Juan Carlos , Hernández Héctor Eduardo , Ramón-Triana Vivian Yorlady , Cuellar-Alvarez Natalia , Casanoves Fernando
Published: October 2023

Cocoa bean quality depends mainly on genetic material, edaphoclimatic factors and post-harvest processes such as fermentation. The impact of the fermentation process on the chemical and func-tional composition of different cocoa clones grown in southern Colombia was analyzed. A facto-rial design with repeated measures over time was used to analyze the effect of clone and fermen-tation time on chemical characteristics (bromatology, phenolic compounds and antioxidant ac-tivity). The bromatological characteristics showed significant differences between clones and fermentation time. Clones EET-8 and CCN-51 showed higher contents of acidity (0.51%), fat (63.61%), protein (12.85%) and carbohydrates (1.63 mg g-1). Moisture, acidity and sucrose in-creased their values between day 4 and day 6 of fermentation (P<0.05). Phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity had significant differences between clones, where clones CCN-51 and ICS-95 had high contents of phenols (64.56 mg g-1), flavonoids (3.30 mg g-1) and DPPH reducing capacity (325.55 µmol g-1). In this sense, we consider the FSV-41 clone as the major grain quality index based on the results of chemical composition at bromatological level, antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds.
Evaluation of Ground Pressure, Bearing Capacity, and Sinkage in Rigid-Flexible Tracked Vehicles on Characterized Terrain
Authors: Rauf Omer , Yang Ning , Ming Chen , Haoxiang Ma
Published: October 2023

Tracked vehicles play a significant role in engineering. Supportive trafficability is the salvation of any tracked vehicle. Terrain characteristics have a substantial impact on tracked vehicle mobility. We consider a tracked vehicle traversing known terrain in this paper. Vehicle-terrain interaction covers track-soil friction, soil compaction, traction, bearing capacity, and sinkage resistance. Identifying the soil parameters upon which a tracked vehicle moves will likely lead to more accurate traversability predictions, better traction control, and more accurate trajectory tracking. Conventional terramechanical models cannot adequately describe the connection between tracks and soil. Obtaining real-time measurements of the ground pressure of the soil as the unmanned tracked vehicle moves in the soil bin of dimensions 610 cm long, 245 cm wide, and 180 cm deep is challenging. The utilization of real-time data enables monitoring dynamic variations in ground pressure exerted by the operational components within a soil bin. A ground pressure monitoring device suitable for wet and dry soil was designed to reduce the accumulation of choked damp soil, clay, or mud in the sensor, sensor bracket, track, and other equipment. The device uses a pressure sensor, a data logger, and wireless measurement technology. It can simultaneously measure up to 8 pressure sensors and transmit measurement data remotely to a computer. This reduces the labor intensity of measuring personnel in muddy soil. Data analysis showed that the crewless tracked vehicle’s ground pressure and forward resistance increased with forward speed and vertical load. A law was also discovered explaining how ground pressure (sinkage) spreads between the trackpad and the soil. A general technique is presented in this paper that can be applied to any tracked vehicle. The conclusions show that the ground pressure measurement system works steadily in different humidity scenarios. In addition, the data that has been gathered can be transmitted to a computer using wireless communication methods.
Cyclin B Export to the Cytoplasm via the Nup62 Subcomplex and Its Subsequent Rapid Nuclear Import Are Required for the Initiation of Drosophila Male Meiosis
Authors: Yamazoe Kanta , Inoue Yoshihiro H.
Published: October 2023

The cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk) 1–cyclin B (CycB) complex plays critical roles in cell cycle regulation. Before Drosophila male meiosis, CycB is exported from the nucleus to the cytoplasm via the nuclear porin 62kD (Nup62) subcomplex in the nuclear pore complex. When this is inhibited, Cdk1 is not activated, and meiosis does not initiate. We investigated the mechanism that controls cellular localization and activation of Cdk1. Cdk1–CycB continuously shuttled into and out of the nucleus in the prolonged G2 phase before meiosis. Overexpression of CycB, but not that with nuclear localization signal sequences, rescued reduced cytoplasmic CycB and inhibition of meiosis in Nup62-silenced cells. Full-scale Cdk1 activation occurred in the nucleus shortly after its rapid nuclear entry. Cdk1-dependent centrosome separation did not occur in Nup62-silenced cells, while Cdk1 interacted with Cdk-activating kinase and Twine/Cdc25C in the nucleus of Nup62-silenced cells, suggesting the involvement of another suppression mechanism. Silencing of roughex rescued Cdk1 inhibition and initiated meiosis. Nuclear exports of Cdk1 ensured its escape from inhibition by cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor. The complex reentered the nucleus via importin β at the onset of meiosis. We propose a model regarding the dynamics and activation mechanism of Cdk1–CycB to initiate male meiosis.
A Comparative Study of Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Ideation, and Self-Esteem in Students with or without ADHD
Authors: Choi Bum-Sung , Kim Ji-hoon
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: Although there has been growing interest in the association of ADHD with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-esteem, there is a lack of consistent results and these associations remain unclear. This study investigated the differential patterns of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-esteem with regard to the presence of ADHD. Materials and Methods: The subjects were divided into a patient group and a control group. The patient group included 49 patients diagnosed with ADHD at the department of psychiatry of one university hospital. For the control group, 3,727 students were invited to complete a questionnaire. Of the 1,717 students who responded to the questionnaire, 245 were selected for patient-controlled studies. All the subjects were instructed to complete the Beck Suicide Ideation Scale, Children's Depression Inventory, Beck’s Depression Inventory, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Results: ADHD subjects experienced more anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation as well as lower self-esteem compared to the control group comprising participants without ADHD. Conclusions: These findings suggest that ADHD symptoms may contribute to greater suicidal ideation through experienced depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem in school-aged children. Therefore, appropriate ADHD symptom management is necessary to reduce suicidal ideation among school-aged children with ADHD symptoms.
Sustainable Leadership in the Digital Era: The Role of Technology in Promoting Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Moleka Pitshou
Published: October 2023

This article explores the concept of sustainable leadership in the digital era and the role of technology in promoting environmental sustainability. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected through digital advancements, leaders are facing new challenges and opportunities to address environmental concerns. This article examines the key characteristics of sustainable leadership and discusses how technology can be utilized to promote environmental sustainability. It highlights various technological innovations and strategies that leaders can employ to foster a sustainable organizational culture. Moreover, the article discusses potential barriers and limitations of technology in achieving sustainability goals. Overall, it emphasizes the significance of sustainable leadership and technology integration in addressing environmental challenges in the digital era.
Synergistic in vitro Antiviral Effect of Combinations of Ivermectin, Essential Oils and 18-(Phthalimid-2-yl)ferruginol Against Arboviruses and Herpesvirus
Authors: Betancur-Galvis Liliana , Jimenez-Jarava Orlando José , Rivas Fatima , Mendoza-Hernández William E , González-Cardenete Miguel A
Published: October 2023

Combining antiviral drugs with different mechanisms of action can help prevent the development of resistance by attacking the infectious agent through multiple pathways. Additionally, by using faster and more economical screening methods, effective synergistic drug candidates can be rapidly identified, facilitating faster paths to clinical testing. In this work, a rapid method was standardized to identify possible synergisms from drug combinations. We analyzed the possible reduction of antiviral effective concentration of drugs already approved by the FDA, such as ivermectin  (IVM), ribavirin (RIBA) and acyclovir (ACV) against Zika virus (ZIKV), Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and herpes virus type 2 (HHV-2). Essential oils (EOs) were also included in the study since they have been reported for more than a couple of decades to have broad-spectrum antiviral activity. We also continued studying the antiviral properties of one of our patented molecule with broad-spectrum antiviral activity, the ferruginol analogue 18-(phthalimid-2-yl)ferruginol (phthFGL). In general, the combination of IVM, phthFGL and Oregano EO showed the greatest synergism potential against CHIKV, ZIKV and HHV-2, obtaining a reduction in the EC99 value of up to ~8, and ~27, and ~12-fold for CHIKV, in example, respectively. The ternary combination RIBA, phthFGL, Oregano EO was slightly more efficient than the binary combination RIBA/phthFGL but much less efficient than IVM, phthFGL, Oregano EO which indicates that IVM could contribute more to the differentiations of cell targets (for example by inhibition of host heterodimeric importin IMP α/β1 complex) than ribavirin. PhthFGL showed a good pharmacokinetic profile.
Are There Solitonlike Coherent Structure in Boundary Layers ?
Authors: Sun Bohua
Published: October 2023

The identification of solitonlike coherent structure (SCS) in boundary layer flows is crucial for understanding turbulence origins and in particular for laminar-turbulence transition. However, the task of finding solutions for solitonlike coherent structure from the Navier-Stokes equations poses a significant challenge. In this paper, based on the author's previous work [Sun (2023) in Ref.31], we are able to study convergent flow boundary layers, whose solution encompasses both shock wave and solitary wave solutions, and their superposition gives rise to solitary-like waves, namely solitonlike coherent structure. It is found that the solitonlike coherent structure can only be obtained by combining the Navier-Stokes equations and mass conservation, since the combined equations will have the third order derivatives respect to coordinate $x$, in other words, without the mass conservation condition, the Navier-Stokes equations does not contain solitonlike coherent structure by itself. Finally proved solitonlike coherent structure do exit in all kind of flows.
Study on Corrosion Behavior of Porous Pure Copper Based Onelectrochemistry and Scanning Kelvin Probe
Authors: Chen Xuedan , Liao Qilong , Zuo Hanyang , Fu Qingshan
Published: October 2023

Porous metals possess low bulk density, large specific strength, high stiffness and special thermal, electromagnetic and acoustic conductivity, so that porous metals are widely used in filtration and separation, flame retardant explosion-proof, biomedical application, etc. Compared with its corresponding dense metal, the presence of porous structures also leads to different corrosive performances of porous metal. So, some researches have utilized weight loss method, electrochemical impedance to evaluate porous metals’ corrosion behavior; however, the influence of pore structure on metal corrosion is still controversial, and present methods used for analyses of porous metals’ corrosion are statistical averages of the corrosion behavior of the entire porous material, which cannot accurately reflect the corrosion behavior inside the pore structure. Herein, we prepare porous copper samples with 0, 24, 72, 96 pores using mechanical process, and employ scanning kelvin probe combined with electrochemical polarization curve and impedance spectroscopy to test the corrosion performance of the porous copper in static and dynamic NaCl solution. The relevant results indicate that in static solution, the corrosion resistance of samples gradually increases with the rise of the number of pores. By contrast, the sample with 24 pores exhibits more susceptible to corrosion than the sample without pore.
Examining Pre-service Teachers' Critical Thinking Competences within the Framework of Education for Sustainable Development: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Christodoulou Panagiota , Papanikolaou Anastasios
Published: October 2023

Empowering teachers with Critical Thinking and understanding of sustainability is vital for guiding students’ informed decisions and actions in today’s world. Higher education needs innovative, student-centered methods like case-based teaching in order to promote Critical Thinking and the principles of Education for Sustainable Development. The aim of the study was to explore and evaluate pre-service teachers' Critical Thinking when engaged with case studies in a practicum preparation course centered on Education for Sustainable Development. Nine undergraduate students in Teacher Education participated in the study and answered four case studies. The case studies’ responses were analyzed through a bottom-up content analysis revealing eight higher-order categories. While approaching the case studies, student-teachers followed thinking processes similar to the processes proposed by the iterative models of Critical Thinking as perceived by Garrison (1991) and/or Brookfield (1987). Nevertheless, in some cases, pre-service teachers’ disengagement was evident. The rubric assessment highlighted that the responses fell under three profiles, namely the “Deficient Critical Thinker”, the “Emerging Critical Thinker” and the “Competent Critical Thinker”. The findings emphasize the need for targeted and individualized teaching interventions in teacher higher education programs aiming at Education for Sustainable Development complying with the learning needs of student-teachers’ Critical Thinking profiles.
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum from Unexplored Tunisian Ecological Niches: Antimicrobial Potential, Probiotic and Food Applications
Authors: Selmi Hiba , Rocchetti Maria Teresa , Capozzi Vittorio , Semedo-Lemsaddek Teresa , Fiocco Daniela , Spano Giuseppe , Abidi Ferid
Published: October 2023

The continued exploration of the diversity of lactic acid bacteria in little-studied ecological niches represents a fundamental activity to understand the diffusion and biotechnological significance of this heterogeneous class of prokaryotes. In this study, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (Lpb. plantarum) strains have been isolated from Tunisian vegetable sources, including fermented olive, fermented pepper and from dead locust intestines, subsequently evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against foodborne pathogenic bacteria, including Escherichia coli O157:H7 CECT 4267 and Listeria monocytogenes CECT 4031, as well as against some fungi, including Penicillium expansum, Aspergilus niger and Botrytis cinerea. In addition, their resistance to the oro-gastro-intestinal transit, aggregation capabilities, biofilm production capacity, adhesion to human enterocyte-like cells and cytotoxicity to colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line were determined. Further, the adhesion to tomatoes and the biocontrol potential on this model food matrix were analyzed. It has been found that all the strains were able to inhibit the indicator growth, mostly through organic acids production. Besides, these strains showed promising probiotic traits, including in vitro tolerance to oro-gastrointestinal conditions, adhesion to abiotic surface and to Caco-2 cells. Moreover, all tested Lpb. plantarum strains were able to adhere to tomatoes with similar rate (4.0-6.0 LogCFU/g tomato). The co-culture of LAB strains with pathogens on tomatoes showed that Lpb. plantarum could be a good candidate to control pathogen growth. Nonetheless, further studies are needed to guarantee their use as probiotic strains for biocontrol on food matrices.
Performance of a Nanoribbon Biosensor Sensitized with Aptamers and Antibodies upon Detection of HCVcoreAg
Authors: Ivanov Yuri , Malsagova Kristina , Goldaeva Kristina , Pleshakova Tatyana , Kozlov Andrey , Galiullin Rafael , Shumov Ivan , Popov Vladimir , Abramova Irina , Nevedrova Ekaterina , Vinogradova Angelina , Ziborov Vadim , Petrov Oleg , Dolgoborodov Alexander , Archakov Alexander
Published: October 2023

The performance of the nanoribbon biosensor upon the use of two different types of molecular probes — the antibodies and the aptamers against HCVcoreAg — has been tested. The sensor chips employed are based on “silicon-on-insulator structures”. Two different HCVcoreAg preparations have been tested: recombinant b-galactosidase-conjugated HCVcoreAg (“Virogen”, USA) and recombinant HCVcoreAg (“Vector-Best”, Russia). Upon the detection of either type of the antigen preparation, the lowest concentration of the antigen detectable in buffer with pH 5.1 has been found to be approximately equal, amounting to ~10–14 M. This value has been found to be similar upon the use of either type of molecular probes.
The RNA Binding Function of Ribosomal Proteins and Ribosome Biogenesis Factors in Human Health and Disease
Authors: Catalanotto Caterina , Barbato Christian , Cogoni Carlo , Benelli Dario
Published: October 2023

The ribosome is a macromolecular complex composed of RNA and proteins that interact through an integrated and interconnected network to preserve its ancient core activities. In this review, we emphasize the pivotal role played by RNA-binding proteins as a driving force in the evolution of the current form of the ribosome, underscoring their importance in ensuring accurate protein synthesis. This category of proteins includes both ribosomal proteins and ribosome biogenesis factors. Impairment of their RNA-binding activity can also lead to ribosomopathies, a group of disorders characterized by defects in ribosome biogenesis that are detrimental to protein synthesis and cellular homeostasis. A comprehensive understanding of these intricate processes is essential for elucidating the mechanisms underlying the resulting diseases and advancing potential therapeutic interventions.
Robust Epileptic Seizure Detection using LSTM and Feature Fusion from Compressed Time-Frequency EEG Images
Authors: Khan Shafi Ullah , Jan Sana Ullah , Koo In Soo
Published: October 2023

Epilepsy is a prevalent neurological disorder with considerable risks, including physical impairment and irreversible brain damage from seizures. Given these challenges, the urgency for prompt and accurate seizure detection cannot be overstated. Traditionally, experts have relied on manual EEG signal analyses for seizure detection, which is labor-intensive and prone to hu-man error. Recognizing this limitation, the rise of deep learning methods has been heralded as a promising avenue, offering more refined diagnostic precision. On the other hand, the prevailing challenge in many models is their constrained emphasis on specific domains, potentially diminishing their robustness and precision in complex real-world environments. This paper presents a novel model that seamlessly integrates the salient features from the time-frequency domain alongside pivotal statistical attributes derived from EEG signals. This fusion process involves the integration of essential statistics, including the mean, median, and variance, combined with the rich data from compressed time-frequency (CWT) images processed using auto-encoders. This multidimensional feature set provides a robust foundation for subsequent analytic steps. A long short-term memory (LSTM) network, meticulously optimized for the renowned Bonn Epilepsy dataset, was used to enhance the capability of the proposed model. Preliminary evaluations underscore the prowess of the proposed model: remarkable 100% accuracy in most of the binary classifications, impressive performance exceeding 95% for three-class and four-class challenges, and a commendable rate exceeding 93.5% for the five-class classification.
Predominance of Canine Parainfluenza Virus and Mycoplasma in Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex in Dogs
Authors: Yondo Aurelle , Kalantari Allen A , Fernández Ingrid , McKinney Amy , Naikare Hemant , Velayudhan Binu T
Published: October 2023

Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) is caused by different viruses and bacteria. Viruses associated with CIRDC include canine adenovirus-2 (CAV-2), canine distemper virus (CDV), canine influenza virus (CIV), canine herpesvirus (CHV), canine coronavirus (CCoV) and canine parainfluenza virus (CPIV). Bacteria associated with CIRDC include Bordetella bronchiseptica, Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus, and Mycoplasma spp. The present study examined the prevalence of pathogens associated with CIRDC in specimens received by a Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in Georgia from 2018 to 2022. Out of 459 cases, viral agents were detected in 34% cases and bacterial agents were detected in 58% cases. A single pathogen was detected in 31% cases, while two or more pathogens were identified in 24% cases. The percentages of viral agents identified were CAV-2 (4%), CDV (3%), CPIV (16%), CCoV (7%), and CIV (2%). The percentages of bacterial agents were Bordetella bronchiseptica (10%), Mycoplasma canis (24%), Mycoplasma cynos (21%), and S
treptococcus zooepidemicus (2%). Positive viral cases ranged from 2-4% for CAV-2, 1-7% for CDV, 1-4% for CHV, 9-22% for CPIV, 4-13% for CCoV, and 1-4% for CIV. Overall, the study showed that the most prevalent pathogens associated with CIRDC during the study period were CPIV, M. canis, and M. cynos.
Sugarcane Light-Colored Lignin: A Renewable Resource for Sustainable Beauty
Authors: Mota Inês F. , Antunes Filipa , Fangueiro Joana F. , Costa Carina A.E. , Rodrigues Alírio E. , Pintado Manuela , Costa Patrícia S.
Published: October 2023

Lignin has emerged as a promising eco-friendly multifunctional ingredient for cosmetic applications, due to its ability to protect against ultraviolet radiation, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. However, its typical dark color and low water solubility limit its application in cosmetics. This study presents a simple process for obtaining light-colored lignin (LCLig) from alkaline black liquor of sugarcane bagasse (SCB), involving an oxidation treatment with hydrogen peroxide, followed by precipitation with sulfuric acid. The physico-chemical characterization, antioxidant and emulsifying potential, safety and stability in an oil-in-water emulsion were performed.
A high-purity lignin (81.6%) with improved water solubility was obtained, as result of the balance between the total aromatic phenolic units and the carboxylic acids. In addition, the antioxidant and emulsifying capacities of the LCLig were demonstrated. The color reduction treatment did not compromise the safety of lignin for topical cosmetic applications. The emulsion was stable in terms of organoleptic properties (color, pH, and viscosity) and antioxidant activity, over 3 months at 4, 25 and 40°C.
Enhancing Soil Quality and Sustainability: A Comparative Study of Chemical, Organic and Waste-Based Fertilizers in Toma-to-Grown Soils, with Emphasis on Carbon and Water Footprint
Authors: Maffia Angela , Marra Federica , Canino Francesco , Oliva Mariateresa , Mallamaci Carmelo , Celano Giuseppe , Adele Muscolo
Published: October 2023

This manuscript explores sustainable agriculture's role in mitigating environmental challenges and meeting the nutritional needs of a growing global population. The objective is to assess the impact of different fertilizers on two distinct tomato-growing soils, each characterized by unique chemical and biological properties. The study compares four fertilizer treatments: Additionally, it evaluates the environmental implications of these fertilizers, focusing on their Carbon and Water Footprints. The findings indicate significant improvements in soil quality with SBO fertilizer. Both soils experienced a shift towards a near-neutral pH, increased organic matter content, and heightened microbial biomass. Enzyme activities were notably superior in SBO-treated soils. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) results demonstrate that the SBO-based system is the most sustainable, with the lowest Carbon footprint. NPK exerts the highest environmental impact. The Water Footprint analysis aligns with these results, showing that SBO requires the least water for tomato production. In summary, this study underscores the significance of sustainable fertilization practices in improving soil quality and reducing environmental footprints in agriculture, offering potential benefits for food production and environmental conservation.
Modeling and Prediction of Thermal Deformation Errors in Fiber Optic Gyroscopes Based on the TD-Model
Authors: Xu Jintao , Tian Ailing , Liu Hui , Liu Ying
Published: October 2023

For a fiber optic gyroscope, thermal deformation of the fiber coil can introduce additional ther-mal-induced phase errors, commonly referred to as thermal errors. Thermal error compensation techniques are effective means of addressing this issue. The principle behind these techniques involves real-time sensing of thermal errors and correcting them within the output signal. Since it is challenging to directly separate thermal errors from the output signal of the fiber optic gyro-scope, it is necessary to predict thermal errors based on temperature. To establish a mathematical model between temperature and thermal errors, this paper measured synchronized data of phase errors and angular velocity for the fiber coil under different temperature conditions and aimed to model it using data-driven methods. Due to the difficulty of conducting tests and the limited number of data samples, an algorithm called TD-model modeling is proposed to address the issue of overfitting, which can reduce the model's generalization ability. First, a theoretical analysis of the phase errors caused by thermal deformation of the fiber coil is performed. Subsequently, the critical parameters, such as the thermal expansion coefficient, are determined, and a theoretical model is established. Finally, the theoretical analysis model is incorporated as a regularization term and combined with the test data to jointly participate in the regression of model coefficients. Through experimental comparative analysis, it is shown that, relative to ordinary regression models, the TD-model effectively mitigates overfitting caused by the limited number of samples, leading to a 58% improvement in predictive accuracy.
Out-plane Buckling of Arches with Variable Cross-section
Authors: Jiang Angfeng , Deng Deyuan , Dai Wei , You Xiuwen , Lu Hanwen
Published: October 2023

Variable cross-section arch is widely used in practical engineering because of its beautiful arc and excellent mechanical properties. However, there is still no systematic and comprehensive study on the out-plane buckling of variable cross-section arch. In view of this, this paper is concentrated on an elastic analytical research of out-plane buckling of arches with variable cross-section under a uniformly distributed radial local load. The pre-buckling and out-plane buckling behaviour of a variable cross-sectional arch under an external load is quite different from that of an arch with uniform cross-section. The Castigliano's second theorem is used to establish pre-buckling force method equilibrium equations for variable cross-sectional arches under a uniformly distributed radial local load, and corresponding analytical solutions of normal stress, axial compression and the bending moment are obtained. Based on the energy method and the Ritz method, analytical solutions of the critical load for the elastic out-plane buckling of arches with variable cross-section are derived. Comparisons with ANSYS results indicated that the analytical solutions are able to accurately predict the pre-buckling internal forces and critical out-plane buckling load of variable cross-section arches subjected to a uniformly distributed radial local load. It is found that the internal forces and the out-plane buckling load of an arch are significantly affected by the variation of cross-sectional height. With the ratio of cross-sectional height of the top to the end increase, the bending moment decreases and the axial force and critical out-plane buckling load increase. Analytical solutions of pre-buckling internal force and critical out-plane buckling load problems for arches with variable cross-section have a wider significance, since they can provide an effective explicit analytic method for the optimal design of arch structure.
Triterpene Glycosides from Cucumaria frondosa, a North Atlantic Mass Harvesting Sea Cucumber: A Comprehensive Structures and Biological Activities Review
Authors: Kalinin Vladimir I. , Silchenko Alexandra S. , Avilov Sergey A.
Published: October 2023

The review concerns the chemical structures of all the triterpene glycosides from the most valuable commercially harvesting North Atlantic sea cucumber Cucumaria frondosa and their biological activities. The isolation and structural elucidation of 17 specific triterpene glycosides are described along with isolation and identification of two known glycosides. Antitumor, immunomodulatory, antithrombotic and anti-Alzheimer disease activities are also described. Frondoside A, the major component of the glycosidic fraction seems to be very perspective leader-compound for creation of useful medicinal preparations.
Risk Factors for the Impairment of Ambulation in Older People Hospitalized with Covid-19: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Silva Erika Christina Gouveia e , Schmitt Ana Carolina Basso , Godoy Caroline Gil , De Oliveira Danielle Brancolini , Tanaka Clarice , Toufen Jr. Carlos , Carvalho Carlos Roberto Ribeiro de , Carvalho Celso RF , Fu Carolina , Hill Keith D. , Pompeu José Eduardo
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: Older people hospitalized with Covid-19 can reduced the capacity to walk. However, the prevalence of impairment of ambulation capacity still need to be established. Objective: To estimate the prevalence and identify the risk factors associated with the impairment of ambulation capacity at hospital discharge of older people with Covid-19. (2) Methods: A retrospective cohort study. Included age > 60 years, both sexes, hospitalized due to Covid-19. Clinical data was collected from the medical records. Ambulation capacity prior to Covid-19 infection was assessed through the patient report from his relatives. Multiple logistic regressions were performed to identify the risk factors associated with the impairment of ambulation at hospital discharge. (3) Results: Data from 429 older people were randomly. Among the 56.4% who were discharged, 57.9% had reduced ambulation capacity. Factors associated with reduced ambulation capacity at discharge were hospital stay higher than 20 days (OR: 3.5) and dependent ambulation capacity prior to Covid-19 (OR: 11.3). (4) Conclusion: More than half of the older people who survived hospitalized due to Covid-19 had reduced ambulation capacity at hospital discharge. Impaired ambulation prior to the infection, and a longer hospital stay were risks factors for reduced ambulation capacity.
Logic, mathematics, physics: from a loose thread to the close link. Or what gravity is for both logic and mathematics rather than only for physics
Authors: Penchev Vasil
Published: October 2023

Gravitation is interpreted to be an “ontomathematical” force or interaction rather than an only physical one. That approach restores Newton’s original design of universal gravitation in the framework of “The Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy”, which allows for Einstein’s special and general relativity to be also reinterpreted ontomathematically. The entanglement theory of quantum gravitation is inherently involved also ontomathematically by virtue of the consideration of the qubit Hilbert space after entanglement as the Fourier counterpart of pseudo-Riemannian space. Gravitation can be also interpreted as purely mathematical or logical “force” or “interaction” as a corollary from its ontomathematical (rather than physical) realization. The ontomathematical approach to gravitation is implicit in general relativity equating it to operators in pseudo-Riemannian space obeying the Einstein field equation and also well-known by the “geometrization of physics”. Quantum mechanics shares the same by the separable complex Hilbert space and defining “physical quantity” by the Hermitian operators.
Role of rs873601 Polymorphisms in Prognosis of Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Zou Ting , Liu Jun Yan , Qin Qun , Guo Jie , Zhou Wen Zhi , Li Xiang Ping , Zhou Honghao , Chen Juan , Liu Zhao Qian
Published: October 2023

Background: Lung cancer is still the most lethal malignancy in the world from the report of Cancer Statistics in 2021. Platinum-based chemotherapy combined immunotherapy is the first-line treatment in lung cancer patients. However, the 5-year survival rate always affected by the adverse reaction and drug resistance caused by platinum-based chemotherapy. DNA damage and repair system is one of the important mechanisms which can affect the response to chemotherapy and clinical outcome in lung cancer patients.

Objective: The objective of this study is to find the relationship between the polymorphisms of DNA repair genes with the prognosis in platinum-based chemotherapy in lung cancer patients.

Patients and Methods: We performed genotyping in 17 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of Excision Repair Cross-Complementation group (ERCC) genes and X-ray Repair Cross-Complementing (XRCC) genes of 345 lung cancer patients by Sequenom MassARRAY. We used Cox proportional hazard models, state and plink to analyze the associations between SNPs and the prognosis of lung cancer patients.

Results: We found that the ERCC5 rs873601 was associated with the overall survival time in lung cancer patients treat by platinum-based chemotherapy (p=0.031*). We also discovered that the polymorphisms in rs873601 was significantly associated with the prognosis in age more than 55 years, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) and smoking patients, Long Intergenic Non-protein Coding RNA (PNKY) rs2444933 in age less than 55 years, SCLC, metastasis and stage III/IV/ED patients, Short Tau Inversion Recovery (STIR1) rs3740051 in SCLC and metastasis patients, PNKY rs1869641 in SCLC patients, XRCC5 rs1051685 in non-metastasis patients, respectively.

Conclusion: The ERCC5 rs873601(G>A) maybe a valuable biomarker for predicting the prognosis in lung cancer patients treated with platinum-based chemotherapy.

Statements and Declarations: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.
On the difference approximation of gas-dynamic flows on the free boundaries of the computational domain
Authors: Savenko Nikita Olegovych
Published: October 2023

The paper presents a technique for constructing non-reflective boundary conditions based on local one-dimensional approximation of gas-dynamic flows using data obtained by extrapolation along a streamline. The technique is focused on obtaining the correct values of variables on the free boundary of the region, mainly in two-dimensional and three-dimensional formulations. The work also considers a method for implementing non-reflective boundary conditions based on a homogeneous linear differential transport equation with adjustment of variables in accordance with the characteristic form of the gas dynamics equations.
Bedside ultrasound assessment of venous congestion by VExUS protocol in heart failure: clinical associations and prognostic value
Authors: Kobalava Zh. D. , Aslanova R. Sh. , Safarova A. F. , Vatsik-Gorodetskaya M. V.
Published: October 2023

Aim. To evaluate the frequency, dynamics, clinical associations and prognostic value of venous congestion at bedside ultrasound using VExUS protocol in patients with decompensated heart failure (HF).

Material and methods. This prospective study included 273 patients over 18 years old with NYHA class II-IV decompensated HF. All patients underwent standard clinical and paraclinical analysis, including NT-proBNP determination, transient elastometry and lung ultrasound. To assess venous congestion by bedside ultrasound using the VExUS protocol, the inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter was estimated and the congestion severity was determined on the deviation of Doppler curves of hepatic, portal and renal veins. If the IVC diameter was ≥2 sm, venous congestion was determined. To assess pulmonary congestion, lung ultrasound (LUS) was performed according to the 8-zone protocol, and the sum of B-lines ≥5 was taken as pulmonary congestion. All patients received standard therapy for heart failure. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS Statistics program, version 26.0.

Results. A high detection rate of venous congestion (75,8%) was revealed in patients with decompensated HF on admission at bedside ultrasound examination according to the VExUS protocol: mild – in 35,5%, moderate – in 12,8%, severe – in 27,5% of patients. The detection rate of venous congestion at discharge was 48,7%: mild – in 28,2%, moderate – in 9,5%, and severe – in 11,0% of cases. Pulmonary congestion on admission was detected in 98,9% of cases. Venous congestion was associated with the severity of HF, NT-proBNP level, renal and cardiac dysfunction, liver stiffness and sum of B-lines. The prognostic role of venous congestion according to the VExUS protocol on re-hospitalization for decompensated HF and the combined endpoint (hospitalization for decompensated HF + allcause death) at 12 months was established.

Conclusion. The established incidence, associations, and prognostic value of venous congestion in patients with decompensated HF suggest the utility of bedside ultrasound using the VExUS protocol as an available noninvasive method to optimize therapy and risk stratification.
Biomarkers in predicting mortality from cardiovascular events in patients with heart failure and an implanted cardioverter-defibrillator
Authors: Ilov N. N. , Petrova O. V. , Tverdokhlebova D. K. , Karimov I. R. , Nechepurenko A. A. , Boytsov S. A.
Published: October 2023

Aim. To study the role of blood biomarkers in predicting death from cardiovascular events in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) within one year after cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation.

Material and methods. This one-center observation study included 384 HFrEF patients (men, 84%, NYHA class III – 74%, NYHA class IV – 7%), who underwent prospective observation for 1 year after ICD implantation. The study of the original panel of modern biomarkers (blood electrolytes, C-reactive protein, creatinine, soluble growth stimulation expressed gene 2 (sST2), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), galectin-3), allowing to evaluate HF pathogenesis was conducted. Based on the blood creatinine concentration, the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) formula was used to estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR).

Results. In a one-year observation, the primary endpoint was recorded in 35 patients (11%). Single-factor logistic regression showed 3 biomarkers with the greatest predictive potential (p<0,01), related to the occurrence of the investigated endpoint. The concentration of potassium and NT-proBNP, the GFR (CKD-EPI) was included in the multi-factor predictive model with diagnostic efficiency of 68% (sensitivity of 60%, specificity 71%). It was shown that the cardiovascular death risk increased by 2,64 (OR=2,64; 95% CI: 1,28-5,46; p=0,007) at GFR <60 ml/min/1,73 m2 and increased by 3,32 (OR=3,32; 95% CI: 1,26-8,73; p=0,012) at NT-proBNP >2000 pg/ml.

Conclusion. The study of blood biomarkers is promising and in demand for the prediction of adverse outcomes of HF. According to the data obtained, the factors «GFR <60 ml/min/1,73 m2» and «NT-proBNP >2000 pg/ml» may be relevant for one-year mortality prediction.