bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of Self-care, Self-efficacy, and Health Literacy on Health-related Quality of Life in Patients with Hypertension
Authors: Salmanpour Nastaran , Salehi Alireza , Nemati Sadaf , Rahmanian Mahdi , drissi Hamed Bazrafshan , Shadzi Mohammad Reza , Zakeri Alireza
Published: October 2024

Background: Hypertension is a chronic disease that can deteriorate patients' health-related quality of life (Hr-QoL). In this study, we aim to investigate the variables associated with Hr-QoL, including self-care, self-efficacy, and health literacy in patients with hypertension.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, data on 427 randomely selected patients from March 2023 to March 2024 in community and private sectors were collected through interviews in different clinics affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. A linear regression model was used for multivariate data analysis.
Results: The mean age of the participants in the study was 60.05± 11.06, and most (68.4%) were women. The mean total Hr-QoL, self-care, self-efficacy and health literacy scores were 62.47%±15.75, 87.14%±10.76, 68.69%±14.90, and 81.15% ± 17.19, respectively. Based on the linear regression model, every one score change in self-care total score, self-efficacy total score, and health literacy total score was associated with -0.471 (CI:-0.792 - -0.150), 0.306 (CI:0.140-0.473), and 0.283(CI:0.206-0.360) change in Hr-QoL total score, respectively. The model also demonstrated that having an occupation and good income was associated with 7.415 (CI:4.262-10.568) and 6.330 (CI:3.818-8.843) more Hr-QoL scores, respectively. Also, patients who did not have diabetes mellitus and renal disease had 3.407 (CI:0.802-6.012) and 4.071 (CI:1.109-7.032) more Hr-QoL scores, respectively—based on the model, health literacy (β=0.375) had the strongest effect on the Hr-QoL.
Conclusion: In conclusion, self-care, self-efficacy, and health literacy can positively predict Hr-QoL in patients with hypertension. Moreover, health literacy is the strongest predictive factor of Hr-QoL in patients with hypertension.
Distinctive Features of Bimanual Coordination in Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Umemori Takuma , Kobayashi Kazushige , Watanabe Ryo , Higuchi Takahiro
Published: October 2024

Background
Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is characterized by cerebrospinal fluid circulation disorders, and presents as gait and balance disturbances similar to those observed in other incurable neurological diseases. Although previous studies have reported deficits in bimanual coordination among patients with iNPH, these potential pathological characteristics have not received much attention to date. This study investigated the temporal characteristics of a bimanual finger-tapping task in patients with iNPH, focusing on within- and between-hand coordination.
Methods
Study participants comprised three groups: patients with iNPH (N = 19, mean age = 76.9 ± 5.6 years), older adults (N = 19, 76.4 ± 5.3 years), and younger adults (N = 13, 32.2 ± 8.5 years). Participants performed a bimanual finger-tapping task under five conditions that manipulated the temporal differences between the two taps.
Results
The iNPH group exhibited significantly greater errors in both within- and between-hand coordination tasks compared to the other two groups.
Conclusion
The observed increase in errors in between-hand coordination in the older group compared to the younger group, suggests that between-hand coordination is susceptible to aging. These findings show that evaluating temporal errors in a bimanual coordination task, particularly for within-hand coordination, is potentially useful for uncovering pathological characteristics specific to iNPH.
Behavior of external and internal load in the exercise training of elderly people with cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Delevatti Rodrigo Sudatti , Danielevicz Angelica , Juchem Gabriel , Duzzioni Maria Eduarda , Moraes Janara A. , Heberle Isabel , Gerage Aline Mendes
Published: October 2024

Background: Few studies evaluate the behavior of training loads in clinical populations. Purpose: Analyze the behavior of external and internal load in combined progressive training (aerobic and strength), for nine weeks, in elderly of both sexes with cardiometabolic risk factors, participants in a Cardiorespiratory Rehabilitation Program.
Methods: The program were composed of strong and moderate sessions, divided into three mesocycles composed of three microcycles. Parameters of external load (push-up and squat repetitions and distance covered) and internal load (RPE session) were collected. Data were analyzed using Student's t test for paired samples and one-way analysis of variance, with Tukey's post-hoc. The significance level adopted was 5%.
Results: 31 participants (67.5 ± 5.53 years) were evaluated. Strong sessions presented greater external load (p < 0.001) than moderate sessions. Microcycles 3 had a higher number of squat repetitions than microcycles 1 (p = 0.030). Mesocycle 3 showed higher values in the two external load repetition variables (push-up, p = 0.001; squat, p < 0.001). The last strong session showed an increase in external load (push-up repetitions, p < 0.001; squat repetitions, p < 0.001; distance covered, p = 0.001) in relation to the first strong session.
Conclusion: There was maintenance or decrease of the internal load and increase of the external training load, which demonstrates the effectiveness of training program in the adaptation and improvement of the physical capacity of trained elderly with cardiometabolic risk factors, being possible for the trainer to check the progression of his students' training.
Clinical outcome of heart transplantation in children and young adults with congenital and acquired heart disease in a middle-income country: a 20-year single-center experience
Authors: Cavalcante Candice Torres de Melo Bezerra , Júnior Valdester Cavalcante Pinto , Pompeu Ronald Guedes , Maia Isabel Cristina Leite , Pontes Isabelle Barbosa , Teles Andrea Consuelo de Oliveira , Onofre Raimunda Selma Antero Sousa , Chan Titus , Schaffer Charlotte , Branco Klébia Magalhães Pereira Castello
Published: October 2024

Background
Orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT) has become the standard of care for children with end-stage heart failure refractory to medical or conventional surgical therapy. Despite the improvement in perioperative survival in the last decades, the long-term complications and mortality remain significant. This report examines the experience of a single center in Brazil with pediatric OHT, focusing on long-term results and mortality.
Methods
This is a retrospective study from January 2002 to December 2022. Data collection consisted of demographic data, indication, immunosuppression, main complications and mortality.
Results
There were 77 OHT in 74 patients. The median age at the time of OHT was 11.5 years (IQR 0.25–22 years). The indications for OHT were congenital heart disease in 36 (46.8%), cardiomyopathy in 35 (45.5%), and re-transplantation in 3 patients (primary diagnosis: 2 cardiomyopathy − 3.9%). There was an average of 2.2 rejection episodes/patient and 1.3 infection episodes/patient during the first year of follow-up. The most common complications were: acute kidney injury (51%), systemic hypertension (41.9%), anemia (24.3%) and type 2 diabetes (10.4%). Overall survival after 1 year of OHT was 89.6% while 5- and 10-year survival, were 80% and 59%, respectively. Despite late complications, such as infection and acute rejection, all survivors report a significant improvement in functional status.
Conclusion
Heart transplant is an acceptable therapeutic option for children and young adults in middle-upper resourced countries, with outcomes and long term follow up close to those higher resourced countries.
The relationship between gender identity and depressive symptoms in adolescents: A moderated mediation model of self-efficacy and family functioning
Authors: Hou Chenyu , Yan Hanchun , Xiang Zhibiao , Leng Chenyang , Tao Haojuan , Liu Zhening , Lei Hui
Published: October 2024

【Background】 Gender identity is associated with adolescent depression, but the relationship remains unclear. To further clarify the relationship between gender identity and mental health, this study targets adolescents with significant fluctuations in gender identity, constructs a moderated mediation effect model, examines the relationship between gender identity and depression, and explores the mediating role of self-efficacy and the moderating role of family functioning, to provide scientific references for proposing effective psychological interventions for different gender identity groups. 【Methods】Using whole group convenience sampling method, 2340 students from a school in Changsha, Hunan Province, were selected for the survey, and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 items (PHQ-9), the Family Care Index Scale(APGAR), the General Self-Efficacy Scale-Schwarzer (GSES), and gender identity-related questions were used for the assessment of mental health. 【Results】The prevalence of depression was 40.5% among transgender adolescents, which was significantly higher than that of cisgender adolescents (15.6%). At the same time, gender identity, self-efficacy, family functioning, and depression constituted a moderated mediation model, with family functioning moderating the posterior path of this mediation process. Specifically, self-efficacy was progressively less predictive of depression as family functioning increased. 【Conclusion】Transgender adolescents showed significantly poorer mental health than cisgender adolescents. There was a partial mediating effect of self-efficacy between gender identity and adolescent depression, with family functioning moderating the latter half of this mediation effect. This study advances our understanding of the relationship between depression and self-efficacy or family functioning in adolescents of different gender identities.
The morphological characteristics and risk of rupture of ruptured and unruptured internal carotid siphon aneurysms: a preliminary study
Authors: Huang Zhong , Liao Ruikun , Wang Zhi , Xie Guoqing
Published: October 2024

Objective
To compare the morphologic features of unruptured and ruptured aneurysms of the siphon of the internal carotid artery to find a more valuable reference to assess the rupture risk of aneurysms.
Methods
156 patients with internal carotid siphon aneurysms were retrospectively enrolled in the study, all of whom were examined by volume computed tomographic digital subtraction angiography (VCTDSA). 49 patients (51 aneurysms) in the ruptured group and 107 patients (120 aneurysms) in the unruptured group, respectively. A total of 21 indices, such as aneurysm inclination angle and width, were compared between the unruptured and ruptured groups., The univariate analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves judging the specificity and sensitivity of the indices to determine the maximum critical value, and multifactorial logistic regression were used to analyze the results.
Results
The univariate analysis method revealed statistically significant differences in size, morphology, width, height, site, neck, inflow angle, inclination angle, parent-daughter angle, SR (Size ratio), AR (Aspect ratio), S1/S2 (area ratio), aneurysm width/neck width, maximum diameter, multiplicity, and age between the ruptured and unruptured groups of siphonotic aneurysms. The multifactorial study approach suggested that the angle of inclination (OR = 4.062, 95% CI = 1.570 ~ 10.513, P = 0.004), aneurysm size (OR = 12.607, 95% CI = 4.4 ~ 36.124, P < 0.001), and the presence of a multifocal aneurysm (OR = 4.274, 95% CI = 1.620 ~ 11.272 P = 0.003) were independent risk factors for the rupture of internal carotid siphon aneurysms.
Conclusions
The angle of inclination of the internal carotid siphon aneurysm, whether it is multiple or not, and its size are more risk factors for the morphological prediction of aneurysm rupture and valuable in assessing the risk of aneurysm rupture.
Bioequivalence of Cefdinir Dispersible Tablets in healthy Chinese subjects under fasting and fed conditions: A Single-Centred, Randomized, Open, Single-Dose, Two-Preparation, Two-Cycle, Two-Sequence, Double-Crossover Trial
Authors: Mao Nan , Xu Zuoheng , Su Jianfen , Wang Bingna , Zheng Diqun , Liao Jianxing , Liu Xiaoyan
Published: October 2024

Cefdinir is a broad-spectrum antibiotic with good antibacterial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, and can be used for the treatment of various sensitive bacterial infections, such as community-acquired pneumonia, urinary tract infection and gonorrhea. Herein, a single-centred, randomized, open, single-dose, two-preparation, two-cycle, two-sequence, double-crossover trial with a 7-day washout was conducted to investigate the pharmacokinetics, bioequivalence and safety of cefdinir dispersible tablets and the reference formulation of cefdinir capsules in healthy Chinese volunteers. Fifty-six healthy subjects were recruited and randomly assigned to the fasting and fed groups. After a single oral dose of the test or reference formulation (0.1 g), the cefdinir concentrations in the plasma were determined via HPLC-MS/MS, and pharmacokinetic parameters were obtained from the concentration‒time profiles. Overall, 24 and 31 individuals completed the evaluation under fasting and fed conditions, respectively. The mean concentration‒time profiles for both formulations were similar, and the Cmax, AUC0–t and AUC0–∞ values were entirely within the bioequivalence range of 80.00–125.00%. 3 subjects reported 5 AEs and 8 subjects experienced 13 AEs in the fasting and fed group, respectively, but no participants withdrew from the trial because of AEs. All adverse reactions were grade I in severity, and no serious AEs or deaths occurred. The results demonstrated that these formulations were bioequivalent in healthy Chinese subjects under fasting and fed conditions, supporting the further clinical development of cefdinir dispersible tablets. This trial was registered in the China Drug Trials Registry (registration number: CTR20210441; registration date: March 11, 2021).
Acquisition of high-sensitivity human aqueous humor Raman spectra
Authors: Shinojima Ari , Sawada Mio , Kuroda Mizuki , Lee Deokho , Kinoshita Taku , Negishi Kazuno , Kurihara Toshihide
Published: October 2024

Aqueous humor metabolites could serve as novel biomarkers for real-time diagnosis of pathological conditions if analyzed using minimally invasive in vivo methods. This study aimed to develop a low-energy, sensitive detection system by obtaining Raman spectra from aqueous humor with reduced laser irradiation. Aqueous humor was collected during cataract surgery from five consenting patients and analyzed using a specialized Raman spectrometer. Raman spectra were obtained through irradiation with a 420 mJ laser light, approximately one-fourth of the energy used in previous Raman spectroscopy studies. The spectra were interpolated using the Savitzky-Golay method, and second-order differentiation was performed to verify the Raman signals. Specific vibrations were observed in the in vivo Raman spectra of aqueous humor, including CH2 symmetric, C-N stretching, and CH2 antisymmetric stretching vibrations attributed to “glucose”, “urea”, and “glucose and lactate” at 2890, 1006, and 2950 cm⁻¹, respectively. These signals were consistent with those previously reported, despite the use of significantly lower excitation energy. Aqueous humor Raman spectra can be obtained at much lower energy levels than previously reported, indicating the potential for a highly sensitive, minimally invasive metabolite detection system.
Portfolio carbon footprints and decarbonization progress of China's asset managers: a decade analysis
Authors: Guan Dabo , Wang Jinglei , Yu Xiang , Wang Wenqiang , Gesang Gesangyangji , Li Jie , Li Shuping , Zhang Ning , Zhang Zengkai
Published: October 2024

Despite repeated calls to reduce CO2 emissions, asset managers continue to invest heavily in carbon-intensive assets, creating hidden carbon bombs within their equity portfolios. Timely tracking of portfolio carbon footprints is essential as a dynamic tool for monitoring companies' efforts to reduce carbon reduction. However, the availability and quality of firm-level CO2 emissions data present significant challenges in measuring financed emissions. As a result, potential climate-related risks for asset managers are likely to be severely underestimated. This study analyses CO2 emissions embodied in the equity portfolios of 105 Chinese asset managers from 2010 to 2020. Results show that over 50% of financed emissions comes from carbon-intensive assets, primarily emitted by individual high-emitting companies. Positively, some managers have reallocated capital towards High-tech Industries and Advanced Services during the period, and achieved over 50% reduction in carbon intensity. Comparison between asset managers' commitments versus actual mitigation actions shows that five out of six leading asset managers in China have failed to take their mitigation actions, despite their commitment to the UN Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI). Our qualitative analysis provide scientific evidence for China's asset managers in measuring companies’ portfolio carbon footprints and supporting their decarbonization pathways.
Electrodriven H2 Production in Escherichia coli: Rational Design and Mechanistic Studies of the Electron Uptake Process
Authors: Sekretareva Alina , Ganguli Sagar , Kurth Larissa , Gamache Mira , Pavliuk Olha , Zamader Afridi , Kostopoulos Nikolaos , Filmon Dawit , Plumeré Nicolas , Ugalde Sandra Ortega , Berggren Gustav
Published: October 2024

Electromicrobial production systems, which use electrons from renewable energy sources to drive microbial metabolism towards desired products, are considered a promising strategy for future energy conversion and sustainable synthesis technologies. However, electron transport to microbes remains a critical yet poorly understood process. This hinders the rational design of these systems for viable energy efficiencies. Here, we report the construction of an efficient redox power-transport unit that converts electrons into internally generated H₂, which can either be harvested directly or used as reducing power within the cell to drive Escherichia coli metabolism towards more complex products. Efficient conversion of electrons supplied by the electronic circuit to H₂ within the cell is achieved by engineering E. coli with functional [Fe-Fe] hydrogenase from the green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (CrHydA1) and selecting a suitable electron transfer mediator. The system's design is guided by a developed kinetic model, which provides insights into the mechanism and kinetics of the electron uptake process.
Predictive goal coding by somatostatin-expressing interneurons is rapidly updated by current experience
Authors: Bartos Marlene , Yuan Mei , Cazala Aurore , Sauer Jonas-Frederic
Published: October 2024

To select appropriate behaviour, individuals need to rely on the encoding of relevant features within their environment in the context of current and past experiences. This function has so far been related to goal-associated activity patterns of hippocampal principal cells. By applying single unit recordings of optogenetically identified somatostatin-expressing interneurons (SOMIs) in the hippocampal dentate gyrus of head-fixed mice trained on a spatial goal-oriented reward-learning task in a virtual reality, we show that in expert mice characterized by goal anticipatory behaviour, SOMIs activity temporally precedes reward-locations. Predictive goal-coding by SOMIs is lost after translocation of learned goals to novel previously unrewarded sides resulted in rapid reduction of anticipatory behaviour, and rapid reconfiguration of SOMI activity to times after reward onset in association with reward consumption at novel goal-sides. Chemogenetic silencing of SOMIs caused a loss in memorizing that trained goal-sides are no longer available. Thus, our data show a so far unrecognized ability of SOMIs to flexibly encode goal-locations depending on current and past experiences to bias behavioral outcomes.
Learning local and semi-local density functionals from exact exchange-correlation potentials and energies
Authors: Gavini Vikram , Kanungo Bikash , Hatch Jeffery , Zimmerman Paul
Published: October 2024

Finding accurate exchange-correlation (XC) functionals remains the defining challenge in density functional theory (DFT). Despite 40 years of active development, the desired chemical accuracy is still elusive with existing functionals. We present a data-driven pathway to learn the XC functionals by utilizing the exact density, XC energy, and XC potential. While the exact densities are obtained from accurate configuration interaction (CI), the exact XC energies and XC potentials are obtained via inverse DFT calculations on the CI densities. We demonstrate how simple neural network (NN) based local density approximation (LDA) and generalized gradient approximation (GGA), trained on just five atoms and two molecules, provide remarkable improvement in total energies, densities, atomization energies, and barrier heights for hundreds of molecules outside the training set. Particularly, the NN-based GGA functional attains similar accuracy as the higher rung SCAN meta-GGA, highlighting the promise of using the XC potential in modeling XC functionals. We expect this approach to pave the way for systematic learning of increasingly accurate and sophisticated XC functionals.
Spatio-temporal variation and simulation prediction of carbon storage in Lijiang River Basin based on PLUS- InVEST model
Authors: Xinran Zhou , Jinye Wang , Wen He , Liang Tang , Hui Li
Published: October 2024

Quantitative assessment and simulation of terrestrial ecosystem carbon storage are of significant importance for future climate regulation and ecosystem management. In this paper, focusing on the Lijiang River Basin, we utilized the PLUS model and the InVEST model to evaluate the dynamic changes in land use and carbon storage from 2001 to 2041 under different development scenarios. The results indicate: (1) From 2001 to 2021, the areas of forest, shrub, grassland, and water bodies decreased, while the areas of cropland and impervious land increased. (2) Under the three scenarios, the changes in land use areas exhibited distinct characteristics. (3) From 2001 to 2021, the carbon storage in the Basin exhibited an overall declining trend. Under the scenarios of inertial development, ecological priority, and urban development, the projected carbon storage in Basin for 2041 will be 144.27×106t, 145.72×106t, and 143.8×106t, respectively. (4) The carbon storage in the karst landform area decreased by 3.85%, and the carbon storage in the non-karst landform area decreased by 2.57%. Those results suggest that implementing reasonable planning and restrictions in construction areas, as well as controlling the conversion of high carbon density land to low carbon density land, can contribute to increasing regional carbon storage. Therefore, the results obtained can provide scientific references for optimizing regional land use structure, improving regional ecosystem carbon storage, and serving the construction of Guilin National sustainable development agenda innovation demonstration zone.
Phase-dependent thermoluminescence properties of zinc sulphide
Authors: Farouk Shrouk , Farouk Amany , El-Faramawy Nabil , Elewa Nancy N
Published: October 2024

In the current study, the effects of heat treatment on the thermoluminescence (TL) and structural properties of zinc blend samples were studied. The samples were annealed after being heated for different time periods from 2 up to 10 hours. The wurtzite hexagonal phase was observed upon heat treatment; however, its percentage decreased with the treatment period. The morphology of ZnS particles was studied by the HR-TEM analysis and it displayed an aggregated ZnS nanoparticles with almost uniform shape and size. The TL-glow curves for each sample were analysed using the CGCD method. Six trapping peaks exist between 0.98 and 1.45 eV through the deconvolution of the glow curves. The number of peaks were increased to 8 peaks for the fourth treatment, located between 0.95 and 1.56 eV. The activation energies and the frequency factors for getting traps were evaluated.
Optimization of Iron Ore Flotation Parameters Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: DE BRITO TARCISIO GONCALVES , Nunes Tiago Caixeta , de Paiva Emerson José , de Lacerda José Carlos , Brito Rogério Fernandes , de Brito Ricardo Luiz Perez
Published: October 2024

This study proposes a method to optimize the flotation parameters of quartz for concentrating iron ore into pellets. With the reduction in mineral deposits with high iron contents and the increasing demand for low ore contaminants for steel production, it is important to evaluate the effects of parameters that influence flotation performance. Seventeen bench flotation tests were conducted using a Central Composite Design (CCD) to identify the process response conditions. Optimization using the Generalized Reduced Gradient (GRG) algorithm resulted in dosage values of 500 g/t for feed, 75 g/t for SiO2, and a pH of 9.80 for starch, amine, and pH, respectively. The calculated iron recovery was 95.21%, with a SiO2 content in the concentrate of 0.46%. Tests under optimal conditions confirmed an iron recovery of 93.86% and a SiO2 of 0.51% in the flotation concentrate. These findings contribute to maximizing the utilization of mineral resources and obtaining high-quality ores.
Prediction of surface roughness of tempered steel AISI 1060 under effective cooling using super learner machine learning.
Authors: Ziyad Firi , Alemayehu Habtamu , Wogaso Desalegn , Dadi Firomsa
Published: October 2024

Surface roughness is essential to evaluate the quality of the surface of the product. To predict the surface roughness researchers have been using statistical and empirical methodologies both of which lack generalizability when applied to unseen data. To overcome the limitation of existing models’ scholars have developed machine learning and artificial intelligence. Machine learning can predict the surface roughness of machined parts accurately. It has high generalization ability when applied to unseen data. For instance, this research endeavor has formulated a super learner machine learning model aimed at predicting surface roughness by leveraging a diverse array of machine learning techniques, including decision trees, random forests, gradient boosting, and extreme gradient boosting. The optimization of these models was achieved through the application of grid search hyperparameter tuning and K-fold cross-validation methodologies. The predictive efficacy of the proposed super learner model is compared with that of all alternative models. Achieving a coefficient of determination (R²) of 99.8% between the experimental and predicted values for surface roughness in the test dataset, the suggested super learner model exhibited superior predictive capabilities relative to its counterparts. This model is identified as the most accurate, distinguished by the highest coefficient of determination (R²), the lowest mean absolute error (1.92%), the lowest mean absolute percentage error (1.76%), and the lowest root mean square error (2.29%). In addition, the interpretations of the model's predictions are clarified using the Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) technique, thereby shedding light on the significant variables that affect the surface roughness of tempered steel AISI 1060.
Influence of systematic standard and Nordic Walking training on exercise tolerance and body weight components in women over 55 years of age
Authors: Kopec Dorota , Witkowska Anna , Nowak Zbigniew , Nowak-Lis Agata
Published: October 2024

Background. The simplest and the most common form of physical activity used by people in different ages is walking. One of the modification of this form of activity is Nordic walking. The aim of the study was to analyze the changes occurring before and after training in body mass components and exercise tolerance on the influence of physical activity in women (>55 years of age) using systematic and varied forms of march training .
Material and methods. 66 women aged 55-64 were examined and divided into two groups: I - 32 persons, participating in the marching training (without poles). II - 34 persons taking part in the marching training with poles. Walking pace during training: from 5 to 6 km/h. The whole training program lasted 12 weeks. Electrocardiographic exercise test, and body composition analysis were performed in each of the examined women before and after the training program.
Results. There were significant changes in VO2peak both in standard walking group and Nordic walking, distance and test duration. In the standard walking group there were significant changes in HRpeak. The evaluation of body composition in both groups concerned significant changes in the same indicators at the same level of significance: percentage fat content, percentage water content inside and outside the cell . There were no correlation between body composition and the results of the exercise test in the standard walking group. In Nordic walking group the correlations were found between the changes in percentage of body fat, body weight, visceral obesity and fitness scores, changes in metabolic cost associated with the exercise test, changes in percentage of body fat content and increase in the duration of the exercise test, as well as percentage changes in body fat content and increase in the distance of the test. After trainings, in both studied groups, a similar level of significant changes in the same body mass indices was obtained in relation to the other components, the results were not significant. The relation between change in exercise tolerance level and changes in body mass composition was shown only in the Nordic walking group
Gut Microbiota Mediates Prenatal METH Exposure-Induced Anxiety- and Depression-Like Behaviors by Modulating the Wnt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Jia-Hao , Liu Jia-Li , Li Xiu-Wen , Yang Jian-Zheng , Liu Yi , Hsu Clare , Chen Long , Zeng Jia-Hao , Chen Li-Jian , Zhang Kai-Kai , Xie Xiao-Li , Wang Qi
Published: October 2024

Background: Prenatal methamphetamine (METH) exposure poses a significant threat to offspring health, including anxiety and depression-like behaviors. This study investigated the neurotoxicity of prenatal METH exposure in offspring and explored the underlying mechanisms.
Results: Our results showed that prenatal METH exposure induced anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in offspring, accompanied by increased hippocampal inflammation and decreased hippocampal neurogenesis. Importantly, offspring exposed to prenatal METH exhibited gut microbiota dysbiosis, characterized by a reduced abundance of beneficial bacteria and an increased abundance of pro-inflammatory bacteria. To assess the involvement of the gut microbiota, we conducted cross-fostering and inulin supplementation experiments. Cross-fostering with control dams partially reversed METH-induced behavioral deficits, suggesting a role for maternal microbiota transmission. Inulin supplementation, both during pregnancy and in offspring, effectively remodeled the gut microbiota composition and alleviated anxiety and depression-like behaviors. This effect was associated with reduced hippocampal inflammation and increased hippocampal neurogenesis, potentially mediated by activation of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway.
Conclusions: Gut microbiota mediates prenatal METH exposure-induced anxiety- and depression-like behaviors by modulating the WNT signaling pathway. This study provides evidence for the critical role of the gut microbiota in mediating the neurodevelopmental consequences of prenatal METH exposure, and highlights the potential of inulin supplementation as a promising therapeutic strategy.
TrafficGamer: Reliable and Flexible Traffic Simulation for Safety-Critical Scenarios with Game-Theoretic Oracles
Authors: Liu Guiliang , Qiao Guanren , Quan Guorui , Yu Jiawei , jia shujun
Published: October 2024

While modern Autonomous Vehicle (AV) systems can develop reliable driving policies under regular traffic conditions, they frequently struggle with safety-critical traffic scenarios. This difficulty primarily arises from the rarity of such scenarios in driving datasets and the complexities associated with predictive modeling of multiple vehicles. The simulation of safety-critical traffic events that can support the testing and refinement of AV policies is an essential challenge to be addressed. In this paper, we introduce TrafficGamer, which facilitates game-theoretic traffic simulation by viewing common road driving as a multi-agent game. When we evaluate the empirical performance across various real-world datasets, TrafficGamer ensures both the \textit{fidelity} and \textit{exploitability} of the simulated scenarios, guaranteeing that they not only statically aligned with real-world traffic distribution but also efficiently capture equilibriums for representing safety-critical scenarios involving multiple agents. Additionally, the results demonstrate that TrafficGamer provides highly flexible simulations across various contexts. Specifically, we demonstrate that the generated scenarios can dynamically adapt to equilibriums of varying tightness by configuring risk-sensitive constraints during optimization. To the best of our knowledge, TrafficGamer is the first simulator capable of generating more realistic and adaptable traffic simulations based on the game-theoretic oracles, enhancing decision-making for autonomous agents and improving the overall quality of safety-critical scenarios. We have provided a demo webpage for the project at: https://qiaoguanren.github.io/trafficgamer-demo/.
Enhancing Lubrication Performance of Water-Lubricated Bearings Using Combined Effects of Herringbone Groove and Porous Bush
Authors: Huang Xun , Zhang Shanwen
Published: October 2024

To expand effective working speed range of machine tool spindle with the fluid film bearings, this study proposes a novel hybrid porous herringbone groove journal bearing (PHGJB) by integrating herringbone grooves and a porous bush into a water-lubricated bearing. However, existing literature lacks a model that accurately describes the lubrication behavior of the PHGJB. To address this gap, this paper presents a lubrication model for the PHGJB that incorporates velocity-slip, angular misalignment and turbulence effects. This model employs the boundary-fitted coordinate system and finite control volume methods to address the challenges posed by the herringbone grooves and three-dimensional flow within the porous bush. The performances of the PHGJB, a typical hydrodynamic herringbone groove journal bearing (HGJB), and a hydrostatic porous plain journal bearing (PPJB) are compared. Differences between the calculated results from the one- and three-dimensional flow models for the flow within the porous bush are also analyzed. Results show that the PHGJB significantly improves stiffness at low speeds, while enhancing stability and controlling temperature rise at high speeds compared to the HGJB and PPJB. Consequently, it offers a broader operating speed range. The proposed model offers an effective tool for structural design and performance analysis of PHGJBs.
Development and Longitudinal Neurocognitive Functioning in Mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIC: A Case Study
Authors: Anikiej-Wiczenbach Paulina , Limanówka Monika , Mazurkiewicz-Bełdzińska Maria , Pierzynowska Karolina , Węgrzyn Grzegorz , Wierzba Jolanta , Milska-Muza Katarzyna , Mański Arkadiusz
Published: October 2024

This case study presents a comprehensive analysis of the neurocognitive, medical, and developmental functioning of a 9-year-old girl diagnosed with mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIC (MPS IIIC). Genetic testing revealed a homozygous pathogenic variant of the HGSNAT gene (c.1872C>A), typically associated with severe neurodegeneration. However, her clinical presentation has been milder compared to the expected progression, based on her genetic profile and residual enzyme levels. This study incorporates data from various assessments, including yearly intelligence quotient (IQ) scores over the past four years, adaptive skills evaluated by parents and two teachers, neuropsychological functioning, MRI brain imaging, and extensive medical tests. The results revealed that the child maintains the majority of her cognitive skills at a stable level, except for a marked decline in working memory. The study highlights the complexity and variability in the progression of MPS IIIC, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and a multidisciplinary approach. This case highlights the need to consider individual variability in MPS IIIC progression, even when genetic and biochemical markers suggest a more severe course.
M01 tool: An automated, comprehensive computational tool for generating small molecule-peptide hybrids and docking them into curated protein structures
Authors: Sheikholeslami Mahsa , Nazari Mohammad Hassan , Fassihi Afshin
Published: October 2024

The field of computational drug design is rapidly advancing, necessitating innovative methods to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of ligand-receptor interactions. We introduce M01 tool, a comprehensive computational package designed to facilitate the generation and docking of small molecule-peptide hybrids. M01 tool integrates several established tools, including RDKit and EasyDock, into a user-friendly platform that automates the workflow from hybrid generation to docking simulations. Key features include an intuitive interface for visualizing molecules and selecting connection points, automated receptor preparation from UniProt or PDB IDs, generation of default docking configuration files, ligand preparation and docking using EasyDock, and calculation of molecular descriptors related to ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) properties. M01 tool aims to simplify the use of advanced computational tools for researchers with limited chemistry expertise, providing a robust and streamlined solution for hybrid design and docking studies. Validation using peptide-alkoxyamine hybrids demonstrated M01 tool's capability to generate and dock over 8,000 unique hybrid molecules, confirming its potential as a powerful tool in drug design.
A probability prediction model for flood disasters based on Multi-layer Perceptron
Authors: Wang Yiquan , Zhang Jialin , Chang Yuhan
Published: October 2024

Flood disasters are characterized by high frequency, severe destructive power, and extensive impact. The prediction of flood disasters holds great significance. This paper proposes a flood disaster prediction model based on a multi-layer perceptron (MLP). Firstly, the model employs the Spearman correlation coefficient and random forest feature importance algorithm to identify the most influential feature indicators. Subsequently, an MLP neural network is established, trained, and optimized. Experimental findings demonstrate that the model accurately forecasts the likelihood of flood disasters through sample processing, achieving a coefficient of determination of approximately 85.27%.
“One-Stop Shop for Clients with Serious Mental Illness Who Often Use Substances”: A Qualitative Study on Assertive Community Treatment Clinicians’ Perspectives on Managing Substance Use Disorder
Authors: Adebowale Akinade , Ganjavi Hooman , Walke Jennifer
Published: October 2024

Assertive community treatment (ACT) can be an integrated treatment model for peoples with serious mental illness (SMI), many of whom have co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD). With its capacity to provide integrated care, ACT presents opportunities for the effective management of both mental illness and addiction. This study aimed to explore the role of ACT in managing concurrent disorders (CD), specifically focusing on the barriers and facilitators in treating SUD among peoples with SMI, as perceived by ACT clinicians. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five ACT clinicians, from which five overarching themes and the 28 sub-themes were identified through thematic analysis. These established the role of ACT in managing CD, and identified systemic, clinician, and client-related barriers and facilitators in the management of SUD. The findings highlight the potential for integrating mental health and addiction services more effectively within ACT by addressing these barriers and enhancing the management of CD.
Application of Aalen’s additive regression model and the Cox proportional hazards to model HIV/AIDS progression
Authors: Shoko Claris , DelsChikobvuon  , Bessong Pascal , Manyeagae Gorata
Published: October 2024

Over thirty-nine million individuals globally are living with HIV, and has claimed millions of lives globally over the past decades. The study's aims to determine variables associated HIV/AIDS progression in individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy. The research employed a cohort analysis of surveillance data from the HIV Wellness Clinic in the province of Limpopo, South Africa, for 318 HIV-positive patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART). This study uses Aalen's additive regression (AAR) and Cox regression (CR) models in comparison. HIV/AIDS progression for patients receiving treatment therapy has a significant association with CD4 baseline, gender, age, and development of tuberculosis during treatment, according to results from AAR and CR models. With a very modest p value < 0.01, both models demonstrate that the CD4 baseline is highly significant when compared to the other factors in the models. Compared to female patients, male patients experience higher rates of immune system degradation. Compared to individuals with baseline CD4 counts over 350 cells/mm3, patients with baseline CD4 counts below 350 cells/mm3 have higher rates of immunological recovery. This study has reinforced the need for early detection of TB in people living with HIV so that these two diseases are concurrently managed for the benefit of the infected individual.
Evaluation of the nutritional value of freeze-dried hydrolysates obtained from fish skin
Authors: Kazakova V. S. , Zemlyakova E. S.
Published: October 2024

Protein hydrolysates have a wide range of applications in the food industry. The additives obtained by enzymolysis of collagen-containing secondary fish waste (fish skin) have been freeze-dried. The following protein content is established in freeze-dried protein additives: 95.4/100 g (in pollock skin hydrolysates); 94.8 (cod skin); 92.5 g/100 g (pike-perch skin). The amino acid composition of the additives includes glycine, proline, valine, lysine, and arginine. Comparison of the amino acid composition with the reference protein demonstrates a high degree of satisfaction of the daily requirement for amino acids. The utility coefficient of the amino acid composition indicates a balance of amino acids, which determines the biological value of additives from pollock skin (88.67 %), cod (86.65 %), and pike-perch (79.68 %). Protein additives contain low-molecular peptides with biologically active properties. The assessment of the harmlessness index has been carried out using the simplest organisms: growth, reproduction and absence of death of the cells of the Tetrachymena pyriformis ciliate indicate the harmlessness and high biological value of the protein of protein supplements. The obtained food supplements are proposed to be used in the production of sports nutrition products.
Use of non-thermal treatment methods to ensure the quality and safety of fish and other hydrobionts. Overview of the subject field
Authors: Burak L. Ch.
Published: October 2024

Products of aquatic origin are among the most perishable products. Heat processing, including sterilization, drying and evaporation, can lead to undesirable changes in food products, such as a decrease in their nutritional value or deterioration in organoleptic characteristics. The purpose of the paper is to review the results of scientific research on non-thermal methods of processing fish and other aquatic organisms to inhibit bacteria, ensure microbiological safety and maintain quality. The groups of primary spoilage bacteria vary among fish, crustaceans and molluscs depending on storage conditions and duration. Non-thermal processing methods such as ultra-high pressure, irradiation, pulsed electric field and low-temperature plasma have shown significant results in inhibiting microbial growth and increasing the shelf life of aquatic products. However, uncertain processing parameters and characteristics of the technology itself can lead to adverse effects such as lipid oxidation and protein degradation during sterilization. Non-thermal processing can be used in combination with antioxidant composite coatings (membranes) to delay the oxidation of lipids and proteins and improve the physical, chemical and sensory properties of fish products. It is possible to combine several methods of non-thermal treatment, which will make it possible to compensate for the shortcomings of one technology by the action of another method of non-thermal exposure. Further scientific research should be aimed at establishing optimal processing modes, the possibility of combining non-thermal methods with other technologies, such as modified atmosphere packaging in order to determine the mechanisms of spoilage and improve the quality of storage of products of aquatic origin, as well as further industrial implementation of modern processing methods. BELROSAKAVA
Increasing the nutritional value of cupcakes and evaluating their quality
Authors: Ponomareva E. I. , Fedorchenko N. N. , Lukina S. I. , Alyokhina N. N. , Nikitina L. A.
Published: October 2024

The use of non-traditional types of raw materials in the production of flour confectionery products makes it possible to increase the nutritional value of products and enrich them with useful nutrients (proteins, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals). During the study, organoleptic, chemical, microbiological, and biochemical methods of analysis of raw materials, semi-finished products and products were used to determine the chemical composition and calculate the nutritional value of the proposed cupcakes. Partial replacement of premium-grade wheat flour in the recipe for the Stolichny cake with stone fruit flour (pomegranate and apricot kernels) and whole-grain wallpaper wheat flour, as well as the introduction of highly sugared molasses, sunflower oil with the addition of olive oil, contribute to the improvement organoleptic and physicochemical characteristics of products, increase their functionality and do not lead to a deterioration in microbiological characteristics. Consumption of 100 g of developed fortified products ensures the degree of satisfaction of the daily requirement for protein by 19 %, fat – 8, carbohydrates – 14, dietary fiber – 28, minerals – 6–30, vitamins – 6–39 %. The results of the study will contribute to expanding the range of enriched muffins with increased nutritional value using traditional and non-traditional raw materials that ensure food safety and resource conservation.