bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between maternal rheumatoid arthritis and small for gestational age neonates: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tian Lv , Zhang Zhiyuan , Mao Yuting , Zong Minru
Published: September 2023

Background

According to reports, maternal rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been suggested as a possible adverse factor for developing small for gestational age (SGA) in offspring. However, some studies have also indicated a need for a more statistically significant association between the two. Understanding the relationship between maternal RA and the risk of SGA is crucial for identifying potential adverse outcomes and implementing appropriate interventions. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate the association between maternal RA and the risk of offspring developing SGA.

Methods

This study was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (ID: CRD42022357590). A systematic literature search was conducted to identify eligible studies up to August 2022. Quality assessment was performed according to the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The Q test and I2 test tested and estimated heterogeneity among studies. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CI were calculated using random or fixed effects models depending on the heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses, sensitivity analyses, and publication bias assessments were also performed.

Results

Seven studies, including 12,323,918 participants, were included in the analysis. The results showed a statistically significant association between maternal RA and SGA (OR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.29–2.23, p < 0.001). Sensitivity analysis showed stable results. The funnel plot of the symmetric distribution and the results of Begg’s and Egger’s tests showed no publication bias.

Conclusion

Maternal RA is associated with an increased risk of SGA in offspring. However, more studies are still needed to explore the potential mechanisms underlying maternal RA and SGA association.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier [CRD42022357590].
Sex-related differences in the impact of nutritional status on length of hospital stay in atrial fibrillation: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kwaśny Adrian , Łokieć Katarzyna , Uchmanowicz Bartosz , Młynarska Agnieszka , Smereka Jacek , Czapla Michał
Published: September 2023

Background

Nutritional status is related to the length of hospitalization of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of this study is to assess the prognostic impact of nutritional status and body mass index on length of hospital stay (LOHS) among patients with AF relative to their sex.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of the medical records of 1,342 patients admitted urgently with a diagnosis of AF (ICD10: I48) to the Cardiology Department (University Hospital in Wroclaw, Poland) between January 2017 and June 2021.

Results

In the study group, women were significantly older than men (72.94 ± 9.56 vs. 65.11 ± 12.68, p < 0.001). In an unadjusted linear regression model, malnutrition risk was a significant independent predictor of prolonged hospitalization in men (B = 1.95, p = 0.003) but not in women. In the age-adjusted linear regression model, malnutrition risk was a significant independent predictor of prolonged hospitalization in men (B = 1.843, p = 0.005) but not in women. In the model adjusted for age and comorbidities, malnutrition risk was a significant independent predictor of prolonged hospitalization in men only (B = 1.285, p = 0.043). In none of the models was BMI score a predictor of LOHS in either sex.

Conclusion

The risk of malnutrition directly predicts the length of hospital stays in men but not women. The study did not find a relationship between body mass index and length of hospital stay in both women and men.
Equity in digital healthcare – the case of Denmark
Authors: Eriksen Jeppe , Ebbesen Mette , Eriksen Kristina Tornbjerg , Hjermitslev Camilla , Knudsen Casper , Bertelsen Pernille , Nøhr Christian , Weber Ditte
Published: September 2023

As digital healthcare services are expanding in use and purpose in a Danish context so are the functionalities embedded in these, constituting citizens’ access to healthcare services and personal health data. In Denmark, the impact of inequalities in digital healthcare remains largely unexplored, making it crucial to pay close attention to this aspect as the digital transformation of the sector progresses. According to the Danish Health Act (2019), the Danish healthcare system is required to ensure easy and equal access to healthcare, high-quality treatment, coherent patient pathways, freedom of choice, easy access to information, transparency, and short waiting times for every citizen. These are focal law-based requirements influenced by the digitalisation of healthcare. Hence, based on insights from a highly digitalised country, in this case, Denmark, this paper aims to initiate a discussion on inequities in digital healthcare, address current challenges, and consider future directions by elaborating on conceptual, ethical, evidence-informed, and methodological issues linked to inequities in digital healthcare. Specifically, this paper discusses why inequities in digital healthcare in a Danish context need increased attention, how health equity is embedded in Danish legislation and how it can be approached from an ethical perspective. The central focus revolves around the essential principles of empowerment, emancipation, and equity, which are being highlighted to emphasise that the digitalisation of healthcare should actively work towards preventing and avoiding the perpetuation of healthcare inequalities. The paper concludes by discussing future directions for ensuring a more sustainable, robust, and equitable digital healthcare system.
Construction of healthy aging index from two different datasets
Authors: Miķelsone Madara , Reine Ieva , Tomsone Signe , Guðmundsson Helgi , Ivanovs Andrejs , Guðmundsson Halldór S.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The aging population presents both unique challenges and opportunities for societies around the world. To develop an effective healthy aging strategy, a tool for assessing aging process is needed. Numerous attempts to quantify the aging process have been made. However, there is still a challenge in developing and choosing a good enough score that is easy to apply, has a construct of variables that are available in most nationwide surveys for comparable results, and at the same time reflects the aging process of older individuals. The purpose of this study is to present our approach to construct a comparable Healthy Aging Index (HAI).

Materials and methods

In Latvia, data from Wave 8 of the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), involving 420 respondents, were used. For comparative analysis, data from a HL20 study on the health and wellbeing of the older adults in Iceland, which included 1,033 respondents, were used.

Results

For Latvia, 13 items were selected, and for Iceland, nine items were selected. We constructed the HAI with four similar subscales for both countries—“Autonomy,” “Health,” “Wellbeing,” and “Activities,” and an additional subscale “Cognitive” for Latvia. We found matching items in all four subscales. For the Autonomy subscale, they were related to difficulties with everyday and daily tasks. In the Health subscale, the only matching item was self-rated physical health. One item related to loneliness was found for the Wellbeing subscale and one item related to social participation for the Activities subscale.

Discussion

In our study, we found evidence for the successful construction of a HAI in two different datasets. The strength of our construct lies in the use of data from one of the largest social science panel studies in Europe (SHARE). As we were able to apply the construct to the Icelandic study, we believe that items presented in our approach are available in other population-based studies as well, and, therefore, can be easily replicated by others. By examining the existing SHARE data, HAI could be used to analyze long-term changes and could provide a foundation for comparing and monitoring the evolution of aging over time as well as comparing the aging process across societies. This is required for the authorities to conduct further analyses, proposals, and action plans in support of healthy aging.
Smartphone addiction, sleep quality, depression, anxiety, and stress among medical students
Authors: Nikolic Aleksandra , Bukurov Bojana , Kocic Ilija , Vukovic Milica , Ladjevic Nikola , Vrhovac Miljana , Pavlović Zorana , Grujicic Jovan , Kisic Darija , Sipetic Sandra
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Studies consistently link excessive smartphone use to poor sleep quality, depression, anxiety, and stress. This study specifically aimed to investigate these associations among medical students in Belgrade and Nis (Central Serbia).

Materials and methods

The cross-sectional study included a sample of 761 students, who were selected from both the Faculties of Medicine at the University of Belgrade and the University of Nis. Questionnaires, including the International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Form (IPAQ-SF), Smartphone Addiction Scale – Short Version (SAS-SV), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale – 21 items (DASS-21), were completed by the participants. Statistical analysis techniques, such as the Chi-square test, student’s t-test, and logistic regression, were employed to examine the relationship between smartphone addiction, physical activity, sleep quality, depression, anxiety, and stress.

Results

The findings indicated a prevalence of smartphone addiction among medical students at 21.7%, with rates of 22.9% among males and 21.1% among females. Females exhibited significantly higher scores on the SAS-SV scale compared to males (p = 0.032). Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations between smartphone addiction and spending over 4 h daily on smartphones (OR = 2.39; p < 0.001), poor sleep quality (OR = 1.65; p = 0,005), as well as elevated levels of stress (OR = 1.75; p = 0.003), anxiety (OR = 2.04; p < 0.001), and depression (OR = 2.29; p < 0.001). Multivariate regression analysis identified spending more than 4 h daily on smartphones (OR = 2.39; p < 0.001) and increased levels of depression (OR = 2.51; p < 0.001) as independent significant factors associated with smartphone addiction.

Conclusion

This study sheds light on the prevalence of smartphone addiction among medical students, with spending excessive time on smartphones and higher levels of depression standing out as significant factors. Future research should delve into the underlying mechanisms and causal relationships between smartphone addiction and these psychosocial factors. Understanding these connections will aid in developing effective interventions and strategies to tackle this growing public health concern.
The dual face of microglia (M1/M2) as a potential target in the protective effect of nutraceuticals against neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Darwish Samar F. , Elbadry Abdullah M. M. , Elbokhomy Amir S. , Salama Ghidaa A. , Salama Rania M.
Published: September 2023

The pathophysiology of different neurodegenerative illnesses is significantly influenced by the polarization regulation of microglia and macrophages. Traditional classifications of macrophage phenotypes include the pro-inflammatory M1 and the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes. Numerous studies demonstrated dynamic non-coding RNA modifications, which are catalyzed by microglia-induced neuroinflammation. Different nutraceuticals focus on the polarization of M1/M2 phenotypes of microglia and macrophages, offering a potent defense against neurodegeneration. Caeminaxin A, curcumin, aromatic-turmerone, myricetin, aurantiamide, 3,6′-disinapoylsucrose, and resveratrol reduced M1 microglial inflammatory markers while increased M2 indicators in Alzheimer’s disease. Amyloid beta-induced microglial M1 activation was suppressed by andrographolide, sulforaphane, triptolide, xanthoceraside, piperlongumine, and novel plant extracts which also prevented microglia-mediated necroptosis and apoptosis. Asarone, galangin, baicalein, and a-mangostin reduced oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in M1-activated microglia in Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, myrcene, icariin, and tenuigenin prevented the nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 inflammasome and microglial neurotoxicity, while a-cyperone, citronellol, nobiletin, and taurine prevented NADPH oxidase 2 and nuclear factor kappa B activation. Furthermore, other nutraceuticals like plantamajoside, swertiamarin, urolithin A, kurarinone, Daphne genkwa flower, and Boswellia serrata extracts showed promising neuroprotection in treating Parkinson’s disease. In Huntington’s disease, elderberry, curcumin, iresine celosia, Schisandra chinensis, gintonin, and pomiferin showed promising results against microglial activation and improved patient symptoms. Meanwhile, linolenic acid, resveratrol, Huperzia serrata, icariin, and baicalein protected against activated macrophages and microglia in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and multiple sclerosis. Additionally, emodin, esters of gallic and rosmarinic acids, Agathisflavone, and sinomenine offered promising multiple sclerosis treatments. This review highlights the therapeutic potential of using nutraceuticals to treat neurodegenerative diseases involving microglial-related pathways.
Toxicology of carbon nanomaterials in the Caenorhabditis elegans model: current status, characterization, and perspectives for testing harmonization
Authors: Côa Francine , Bortolozzo Leandro de Sá , Ávila Daiana Silva , Souza Filho Antonio G. , Martinez Diego Stéfani Teodoro
Published: September 2023

Carbon nanomaterials are promising advanced materials for novel technologies. Therefore, biosafety studies are mandatory to support their safe development, uses, and disposal in sustainable innovation. Traditional toxicological assays are typically expensive, time-consuming, and have low throughput; they have been replaced by new approach methodologies (NAMs) focused on in vitro, in chemico and in silico approaches, along with alternative models. Caenorhabditis elegans has emerged as a complete model organism for predictive toxicology due to its transparent body, short reproductive and life cycles, and fully sequenced genome with high homology with the human genome. In this review, we discuss the current status, state-of-the-art characterization techniques, and scientific gaps in nanotoxicity studies involving the carbon nanomaterials and the C. elegans model considering the last two decades of research. Moreover, we show the existing supportive tools to evaluate the internalization and biodistribution of carbon nanomaterials in C. elegans and discuss their advantages and limitations. Methodological and experimental gaps must still be discussed with the scientific community; hence, we bring this discussion to light and point out future orientations and perspectives. This review will contribute for guiding the research with C. elegans and harmonization of assays/protocols linked to computational tools and nanoinformatics approaches during the development of carbon nanomaterials.
Case report: Evaluation of hindlimb ischemia using 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography in a cat with cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism
Authors: Lee Hyeongyeong , Lee Dohee , Kim Sanggu , Koo Yoonhoi , Chae Yeon , Yun Taesik , Yang Mhan-Pyo , Kim Soochong , Kang Byeong-Teck , Kim Hakhyun
Published: September 2023

A 12-year-old castrated male domestic shorthair cat weighing 6.7 kg presented with acute hindlimb paralysis and tachypnea. The femoral pulse was absent bilaterally. Thoracic radiography showed finding compatible with cardiogenic pulmonary edema. Echocardiography revealed hypertrophic cardiomyopathy phenotype and a spontaneous echocardiographic contrast in the left atrium, suggesting cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism. Oxygen supplementation, diuretics, and antithrombotic and thrombolytic agents were also administered. However, hindlimb motor function was not restored. Severely increased aspartate aminotransferase and creatinine phosphokinase, as well as neutropenia with a degenerative left shift were identified, and amputation was considered to prevent sepsis caused by necrosis of the ischemic tissues. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography was performed to evaluate the metabolic activity of the muscle tissues and determine the level of amputation. There was no 18F-FDG uptake in the extremities of either the hind limbs or the caudal parts of the bilateral femoral muscle mass, suggesting a loss of metabolic activity in the area. Considering the wide affected area, a decreased quality of life was predicted postoperatively, and the cat was euthanized at the owner’s request. Postmortem muscle biopsy confirmed weak atrophy of the left femoral muscle and prominent atrophy of the right calf. This case report describes the use of 18F-FDG PET in a cat with ischemia caused by cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism.
Beyond the Concepts of Elder and Marginal in DCD Liver Transplantation: A Prospective Observational Matched-Cohort Study in the Italian Clinical Setting
Authors: Fallani Guido , Stocco Alberto , Siniscalchi Antonio , Antonini Marta Velia , Stella Adriano Pasquale , Amato Alessio , Prosperi Enrico , Turco Laura , Morelli Maria Cristina , Cescon Matteo , Ravaioli Matteo
Published: September 2023

Donation after circulatory determination of death (DCD) is a valuable strategy to increase the availability of grafts for liver transplantation (LT). As the average age of populations rises, the donor pool is likely to be affected by a potential increase in DCD donor age in the near future. We conducted a prospective cohort study to evaluate post-transplantation outcomes in recipients of grafts from elderly DCD donors compared with younger DCD donors, and elderly donors after brainstem determination of death (DBD). From August 2020 to May 2022, consecutive recipients of deceased donor liver-only transplants were enrolled in the study. DCD recipients were propensity score matched 1:3 to DBD recipients. One-hundred fifty-seven patients were included, 26 of whom (16.6%) were transplanted with a DCD liver graft. After propensity score matching and stratification, three groups were obtained: 15 recipients of DCD donors ≥75 years, 11 recipients of DCD donors <75 years, and 28 recipients of DBD donors ≥75 years. Short-term outcomes, as well as 12 months graft survival rates (93.3%, 100%, and 89.3% respectively), were comparable among the groups. LT involving grafts retrieved from very elderly DCD donors was feasible and safe in an experienced high-volume center, with outcomes comparable to LTs from younger DCD donors and age-matched DBD donors.
Augmentation of Performance, Carcass Trait, Biochemical Profile and Lipid Metabolism Concerning the Use of Organic Acidifier in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Qiu Kai , Chen Zhimin , Zheng Aijuan , Chang Wenhuan , Cai Huiyi , Zhang Xin , Liu Guohua
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to disclose the effects of a new compound organic acidifier mixing with L-malic acid and L-lactic acid on broiler production. A total of 1000 1-day-old Arbor acres broiler chicks were randomly divided into two treatments of 10 replicates each, with 50 birds per replicate. The feeding trial lasted for 42 days. The treatment group was offered 0.8% of the acidifier based on the control. The growth performance of the broiler chickens was improved by treatment. The broiler chickens in treatment had lower triglyceride but higher high-density lipoprotein content in serum. Superoxide dismutase activity, total antioxidant capacity and the concentrations of immunoglobulin A, complement 3 and lysozyme were increased in the serum of the broiler chickens, while the concentrations of interleukin-2 and tumor necrosis factor-α in the mucosa of jejunum were decreased by treatment. The expressions of AMPK, CD36, FABP1, MTTP and PPARα were increased but expressions of APOB100 and PCSK9 were decreased by treatment. In conclusion, the acidifier was effective at promoting broiler production, which was probably through the improved immunity, antioxidant and hepatic lipid metabolism capacities. The acidifier may be accelerating lipid metabolism in broiler chicken liver through regulating the expression of the genes related to fat metabolism.
Using the RPM Model to Explore the Impact of Organic Agritourism Destination Fascination on Loyalty—The Mediating Roles of Place Attachment and Pro-Environmental Behavior
Authors: Shen Ching-Cheng , Wang Dan
Published: September 2023

Maintaining the sustainable development of fascinating resources in Taiwan’s Hualien and Taitung (Huatung) regions is the basis of organic agritourism. Loyalty not only represents tourists’ commitment to return and recommend but also serves as a goal for destination development. The purpose of this study is to propose and examine the effect of destination fascination on loyalty through a conceptualized Reasonable Person Model (RPM), mediated by place attachment and pro-environmental behaviors. SPSS21 and the linear structure relationship model (LISREL) were used as data analysis tools in this study. A total of 500 valid online questionnaires were collected through snowballing and convenience sampling. The data analysis results revealed that destination fascination has a positive and significant impact on loyalty through place attachment and pro-environmental behavior. Another finding is that place dependence, place identity, and pro-environmental behavior all have mediating effects, with place identity being the main mediating variable. The contributions of this study are mainly reflected in examining the application of RPM in fascination and loyalty, as well as providing practical suggestions for destination fascination and place identity.
Metacognition through an Iterative Anatomy AI Chatbot: An Innovative Playing Field for Educating the Future Generation of Medical Students
Authors: Taranikanti Varna , Davidson Cameron J.
Published: September 2023

Medical educators face many challenges instructing future medical students, specifically in the integration of learning technologies. To overcome these challenges, educators must implement learner-centered and interactive teaching strategies. Anatomical sciences are the cornerstone of medical education and provide the bedrock to layer conceptual understanding of the human body. With the “medical knowledge boom”, most medical schools have reduced the curricular time for anatomy instruction, resulting in a paucity of knowledge and issues incorporating anatomical knowledge in clinical scenarios. Modern pedagogical techniques combining AI chatbots with concurrent metacognitive frameworks can foster a deeper understanding of anatomical knowledge and analysis of clinical cases. Student reflection on the learning process allows for monitoring their progress and tailoring of learning strategies to their specific capabilities and needs. A.I. technology can aid in scaffolding knowledge with practical applications via iterative and immediate feedback in case- or problem-based learning formats. The use of textual conversations actively engages students and simulates conversations with instructors. In this communication, we advocate for the incorporation of AI technologies fused with a metacognitive framework as a medium to foster increased critical thinking and skill development that enhances comprehension. These skills are important for medical students’ lifelong learning process.
Effects of Different Diluents on Semen Quality of Hu Ram Stored at 4 °C
Authors: Zhang Liuming , Wang Yanhu , Sun Xiaomei , Kang Yan , Sohail Tariq , Wang Jian , Li Yongjun
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effects of various diluents on the quality of Hu ram sperm stored at 4 °C. Semen samples were collected from three Hu rams and diluted with diluents A (Sodium citrate–Glucose–Egg yolk), B (Sodium citrate–Glucose), C (Fructose–Skimmed milk powder–Soy lecithin), and D (Tris–Fructose–Citric acid–Egg yolk). Total motility (TM), straight-line velocity (VSL), average path velocity (VAP), curvilinear velocity (VCL), average motion degree (MAD), acrosome integrity, membrane integrity, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were evaluated. The results showed that diluent D had better preservation in terms of the sperm TM, VSL, VCL, VAP, MAD, and membrane and acrosome integrity. On the third day of the storage, the sperm PM of diluent D was higher than that of other diluents (p < 0.05). The ROS level of diluent D was lower than that of other diluents on the fifth day (p < 0.05). On the seventh day of the storage, the sperm TM in diluent D reached 50%, which was the highest in all diluent groups. On the seventh day of the storage, the integrity of the sperm membrane and the integrity of the acrosome of the sperm in diluent D were the highest in all diluent groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, these results indicated that diluent D improved the semen quality during storage at 4 °C. In this study, diluent D was the best diluent formula for Hu ram semen stored at 4 °C.
Plant Extracts to Alleviating Heat Stress in Dairy Cows
Authors: Guo Yongmei , Li Li , Yan Sumei , Shi Binlin
Published: September 2023

Heat stress (HS) in cows is a critical issue in the dairy industry. Dairy cows accumulate heat from body metabolism, along with that imposed by air temperature, humidity, air flow and solar radiation. HS in animals can occur during hot and humid summers when the ambient temperature is extremely high. Dairy cows have relatively high feed intakes and metabolic heat production and are thus susceptible to HS, leading to reductions in feed intake, lower milk yield, affected milk quality, reduced animal health and even shortening the productive lifespan of cows. Therefore, alleviating HS is a top priority for the dairy industry. Suitable plant extracts have advantages in safety, efficiency and few toxic side effects or residues for applications to alleviate HS in dairy cows. This paper reviews the effects of some plant extract products on alleviating HS in dairy cows and briefly discusses their possible mechanisms of action.
Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacterales of Shrimp and Salmon Available for Purchase by Consumers in Canada—A Risk Profile Using the Codex Framework
Authors: Uhland F. Carl , Li Xian-Zhi , Mulvey Michael R. , Reid-Smith Richard , Sherk Lauren M. , Ziraldo Hilary , Jin Grace , Young Kaitlin M. , Reist Mark , Carson Carolee A.
Published: September 2023

The extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-EB) encompass several important human pathogens and are found on the World Health Organization (WHO) priority pathogens list of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. They are a group of organisms which demonstrate resistance to third-generation cephalosporins (3GC) and their presence has been documented worldwide, including in aquaculture and the aquatic environment. This risk profile was developed following the Codex Guidelines for Risk Analysis of Foodborne Antimicrobial Resistance with the objectives of describing the current state of knowledge of ESBL-EB in relation to retail shrimp and salmon available to consumers in Canada, the primary aquacultured species consumed in Canada. The risk profile found that Enterobacterales and ESBL-EB have been found in multiple aquatic environments, as well as multiple host species and production levels. Although the information available did not permit the conclusion as to whether there is a human health risk related to ESBLs in Enterobacterales in salmon and shrimp available for consumption by Canadians, ESBL-EB in imported seafood available at the retail level in Canada have been found. Surveillance activities to detect ESBL-EB in seafood are needed; salmon and shrimp could be used in initial surveillance activities, representing domestic and imported products.
Dual Action of Curcumin as an Anti- and Pro-Oxidant from a Biophysical Perspective
Authors: Wolnicka-Glubisz Agnieszka , Wisniewska-Becker Anna
Published: September 2023

Curcumin, a natural polyphenol widely used as a spice, colorant and food additive, has been shown to have therapeutic effects against different disorders, mostly due to its anti-oxidant properties. Curcumin also reduces the efficiency of melanin synthesis and affects cell membranes. However, curcumin can act as a pro-oxidant when blue light is applied, since upon illumination it can generate singlet oxygen. Our review aims to describe this dual role of curcumin from a biophysical perspective, bearing in mind its concentration, bioavailability-enhancing modifications and membrane interactions, as well as environmental conditions such as light. In low concentrations and without irradiation, curcumin shows positive effects and can be recommended as a beneficial food supplement. On the other hand, when used in excess or irradiated, curcumin can be toxic. Therefore, numerous attempts have been undertaken to test curcumin as a potential photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy (PDT). At that point, we underline that curcumin-based PDT is limited to the treatment of superficial tumors or skin and oral infections due to the weak penetration of blue light. Additionally, we conclude that an increase in curcumin bioavailability through the using nanocarriers, and therefore its concentration, as well as its topical use if skin is exposed to light, may be dangerous.
The Real-Time Optimal Attitude Control of Tunnel Boring Machine Based on Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Jia Guopeng , Huo Junzhou , Yang Bowen , Wu Zhen
Published: September 2023

Efficient control of tunnel boring machine (TBM) tunneling along the designed tunnel axis in an unknown variable geological environment is a difficult and significant task. At present, the TBM attitude during tunneling is mostly manually controlled based on the deviation between the tunneling axis and the designed tunnel axis and their experiences. The tunneling axis from manual control is often the snakelike motion around the designed tunnel axis, even exceeding the deviation limit, for which this paper analyzed three reasons, the unknown geological environment, the hysteresis of TBM position response, and the unsolved overall optimization of tunneling axis. For these reasons, this paper proposed a real-time optimal control framework of TBM attitude based on reinforcement learning, which contains the geological information predictive model, TBM attitude and position (TBMAP) predictive model, and optimal attitude control policy (OACP). This framework can predict the current geological information in real-time and provide the corresponding real-time optimal attitude control that simultaneously considers the hysteresis of TBM position response and the overall optimization of the tunneling axis. This attitude control framework can be directly deployed to TBM without increasing costs and excessive modifications to the equipment. To verify the effectiveness of this attitude control framework, the Xinjiang Yiner Water Supply Phase II Project, using the TBM method, was adopted as a case study. The results revealed that the accuracy of geological environment recognition reached 94%, and OACP can significantly reduce the accumulated deviation of the tunneling axis from the designed tunnel axis by over 80% compared with the manual control and easily provide real-time decision support for attitude control in actual engineering.
Experiments and Design of an Anti-Disaster Support System for Apple Orchards
Authors: Lee Hee-Du , Lee Swoo-Heon , Shin Kyung-Jae , Lee Jun-Seop
Published: September 2023

A number of apple trees have collapsed in South Korea due to strong winds caused by typhoons. In fact, apple trees are protected by various types of support systems. However, despite this, they have still been damaged. The reason why the trees collapsed is that the installation of a support system is based not on scientific facts but on empirical facts. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the structural safety of the anti-disaster support system of apple trees. Equivalent static tests of the support systems, i.e., fences and matrix supports, were carried out. The result of the equivalent static tests indicated that the bearing capacity of the foundation is considered an important factor for the performance of the fence support, and the elements played a major role in the case of the matrix support due to the connection of the strut wire and the mat wire. Based on this test result, design criteria and standard specifications of the apple tree support system in response to local wind speed are proposed.
Fabrication of Spiny-like Spherical Copper Metal–Organic Frameworks for the Microextraction of Arsenic(III) from Water and Food Samples before ICP-MS Detection
Authors: Habila Mohamed A. , ALOthman Zeid A. , Sheikh Mohamed , Alaswad Saleh O.
Published: September 2023

Spiny-like spherical copper metal–organic frameworks (SSC-MOFs) were prepared and characterized via SEM, TEM, EDS, XRD, FTIR and the BET surface area. The fabricated SSC-MOFs were applied to develop a procedure for the microextraction of trace arsenic(III) for preconcentration. The results show that a copper- and imidazole-derived metal–organic framework was formed in a sphere with a spiny surface and a surface area of 120.7 m2/g. The TEM confirmed the perforated network structures of the SSC-MOFs, which were prepared at room temperature. The surface functional groups were found to contain NH and C=N groups. The XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline structure of the prepared SSC-MOFs. The application for the process of microextracting the arsenic(III) for preconcentration was achieved with superior efficiency. The optimum conditions for the recovery of the arsenic(III) were a pH of 7 and the use of a sample volume up to 40 mL. The developed SSC-MOF-derived microextraction process has an LOD of 0.554 µg·L−1 and an LOQ of 1.66 µg·L−10. The developed SSC-MOF-derived microextraction process was applied for the accurate preconcentration of arsenic(III) from real samples, including food and water, with the promised performance efficiency.
Dynamic Modeling of Motorized Spindle System with Unbalanced Mass and Spindle Inclination
Authors: Gu Dan , Xie Yufeng , Liu Shulin , Wei Yuan , Shen Jiayi
Published: September 2023

The high-speed motorized spindle has been wildly used in the field of aerospace processing, due to its advantages such as high speed, high precision, and high efficiency. CNC machine tools used for processing aerospace products require high machining accuracy, and once the spindle fails, it will seriously affect the quality of product processing. Thus, it is important to study the faults of the spindle, especially the faults caused by subtle errors. In this work, a dynamic model of a spindle with unbalanced mass fault and spindle inclination fault is established, and the natural frequencies and mode shapes of the motorized spindle are calculated by using the whole transfer matrix method (WTMM). The deflections of the spindle initial end in the different situations are discussed when the two faults happen independently. The results show that the spindle end deflection of the same fault has different sensitivity at different speeds. At the third order of natural frequencies, the deflection of a motorized spindle is greatest regardless of the fault that occurs. Although the motorized spindle rotates at the same speed, different faults could cause different mode shapes. At the lower speed, when the unbalanced mass fault happens, the mode shape is in an arched shape, and while the spindle inclination fault happens, the mode shape is in a concave shape.
A Study on Tomato Disease and Pest Detection Method
Authors: Hu Wenyi , Hong Wei , Wang Hongkun , Liu Mingzhe , Liu Shan
Published: September 2023

In recent years, with the rapid development of artificial intelligence technology, computer vision-based pest detection technology has been widely used in agricultural production. Tomato diseases and pests are serious problems affecting tomato yield and quality, so it is important to detect them quickly and accurately. In this paper, we propose a tomato disease and pest detection model based on an improved YOLOv5n to overcome the problems of low accuracy and large model size in traditional pest detection methods. Firstly, we use the Efficient Vision Transformer as the feature extraction backbone network to reduce model parameters and computational complexity while improving detection accuracy, thus solving the problems of poor real-time performance and model deployment. Second, we replace the original nearest neighbor interpolation upsampling module with the lightweight general-purpose upsampling operator Content-Aware ReAssembly of FEatures to reduce feature information loss during upsampling. Finally, we use Wise-IoU instead of the original CIoU as the regression loss function of the target bounding box to improve the regression prediction accuracy of the predicted bounding box while accelerating the convergence speed of the regression loss function. We perform statistical analysis on the experimental results of tomato diseases and pests under data augmentation conditions. The results show that the improved algorithm improves mAP50 and mAP50:95 by 2.3% and 1.7%, respectively, while reducing the number of model parameters by 0.4 M and the computational complexity by 0.9 GFLOPs. The improved model has a parameter count of only 1.6 M and a computational complexity of only 3.3 GFLOPs, demonstrating a certain advantage over other mainstream object detection algorithms in terms of detection accuracy, model parameter count, and computational complexity. The experimental results show that this method is suitable for the early detection of tomato diseases and pests.
“Pro-Raphaelites”: The Classical Ideal in Religious Art and the Agency of Artworks in Estonia from 1810 to 1840
Authors: Lumberg-Paramonova Liisa-Helena
Published: September 2023

This article analyzes Baltic German religious art based on examples from Estonia in the first half of the nineteenth century, focusing on artistic networks and the reclamation of a Renaissance classical ideal. Baltic German artists such as Friedrich Ludwig von Maydell, Gustav Adolf Hippius, and Otto Friedrich Ignatius were in contact with the Nazarenes, whose ideals were inspired by Raphael’s attempt to merge art and religion. The Nazarenes influence can be seen in Baltic German religious art, which favored idealized forms and followed on from the works of the Renaissance masters. In addition to presenting religious scenes, in the Baltic context, these artworks acted as mediators of European artistic heritage. The classical ideal was thus perpetuated by a tightly connected network in which Baltic German artists joined others in re-establishing the power of the European canon of art history.
Investigating the Relationship of Outdoor Heat Stress upon Indoor Thermal Comfort and Qualitative Sleep Evaluation: The Case of Ankara
Authors: Ahan Merve Münevver , Nouri Andre Santos , Matzarakis Andreas
Published: September 2023

The necessity of exploring the relationship between sleep quality and the thermal environment has amplified regarding increasing heat stress risk on the human body due to climate change, particularly in vulnerable uninsulated buildings in Ankara. Within this scope, this study investigated occupants’ sleep quality and human thermal comfort in insulated and uninsulated buildings under three local extreme heat event thresholds: (1) typical summer days (TSD25), (2) very hot days (VHD33), and lastly, (3) heat wave events (HWE31). Within a two-tiered approach to thermal comfort evaluations, the human thermal comfort of occupants was identified through the calculation of physiologically equivalent temperature (PET) from the climatic data of local meteorological stations. The psychological thermal comfort and sleep quality of participants were evaluated by questionnaires during each heat event. The results of this study demonstrated that the physiological thermal load of the participants was highest during VHD33s, given that both outdoor and indoor PET values presented their highest values within VHD33 events. Furthermore, the outdoor PET values reached extreme heat stress based on physiological stress grades with 43.5 °C, which indicated the exacerbated vulnerability of Ankara during extreme heat events. The PET values were consistently higher in uninsulated buildings than in insulated buildings. Also, most of the mean psychological thermal comfort votes and sleep quality votes were better in uninsulated buildings than in insulated ones during TSD25s and HWE31s, while it was the opposite within extreme conditions of VHD33s. The outputs of this study contribute to interdisciplinary efforts to attenuate the existing and impending risks of climate change on human life by defining the influence of increasing outdoor heat stress on indoor spaces, thermal comfort, and the sleep quality of occupants.
Tunable Double-Network GelMA/Alginate Hydrogels for Platelet Lysate-Derived Protein Delivery
Authors: Marfoglia Andrea , Tibourtine Fahd , Pilloux Ludovic , Cazalbou Sophie
Published: September 2023

Hydrogels (gels) are attractive tools for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine due to their potential for drug delivery and ECM-like composition. In this study, we use rheology to characterize GelMA/alginate gels loaded with human platelet lysate (PL). We then characterize these gels from a physicochemical perspective and evaluate their ability to transport PL proteins, their pore size, and their rate of degradation. Finally, their biocompatibility is evaluated. We describe how alginate changes the mechanical behavior of the gels from elastic to viscoelastic after ionic (calcium-mediated) crosslinking. In addition, we report the release of ~90% of PL proteins from the gels and relate it to the degradation profile of the gels. Finally, we evaluated the biocompatibility of the gels. Thus, the developed gels represent attractive substrates for both cell studies and as bioactive materials.
Evaluating Ecological Impact and Sustainability in the Manufacturing of Advanced Therapies: Comparative Analysis of Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the Production of ATMPs in Open and Closed Systems
Authors: Pinnetta Giuseppe , Adamini Aloe , Severina Franco , Fagioli Franca , Zanini Cristina , Ferrero Ivana
Published: September 2023

The primary aim of this systematic analysis is to highlight opportunities to improve the environmental impact of advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMP) manufacturing. We have compared the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions expressed in CO2eq of a classic clean room open system (AinB) Cell Factory versus a comparable closed system equipped with isolators (AinD). We have therefore outlined a theoretical situation to simulate the use of a closed system with an equivalent production output to that obtained in the Cell Factory (CF) of the Regina Margherita Children’s Hospital. Open and closed systems for ATMPs have been compared as regards energy requirements, ecological footprints, and costs by analyzing a hypothetic cell production cycle of 21 days. The results demonstrate energy saving and a reduction of 52% in GHG emissions using closed systems per process cycle. Moreover, a reduction in production costs in an isolator setting is also evident. This study shows that the closed system solution has evident advantages compared with the open one.
Molecular and Pharmacokinetic Aspects of the Acetylcholinesterase-Inhibitory Potential of the Oleanane-Type Triterpenes and Their Glycosides
Authors: Stępnik Katarzyna , Kukula-Koch Wirginia , Płaziński Wojciech
Published: September 2023

The acetylcholinesterase-inhibitory potential of the oleanane-type triterpenes and their glycosides from thebark of Terminalia arjuna (Combreatceae), i.e.,arjunic acid, arjunolic acid, arjungenin, arjunglucoside I, sericic acid and arjunetin, is presented. The studies are based on in silico pharmacokinetic and biomimetic studies, acetylcholinesterase (AChE)-inhibitory activity tests and molecular-docking research. Based on the calculated pharmacokinetic parameters, arjunetin and arjunglucoside I are indicated as able to cross the blood–brain barrier. The compounds of interest exhibit a marked acetylcholinesterase inhibitory potential, which was tested in the TLC bioautography test. The longest time to reach brain equilibrium is observed for both the arjunic and arjunolic acids and the shortest one for arjunetin. All of the compounds exhibit a high and relatively similar magnitude of binding energies, varying from ca. −15 to −13 kcal/mol. The superposition of the most favorable positions of all ligands interacting with AChE is analyzed. The correlation between the experimentally determined IC50 values and the steric parameters of the molecules is investigated. The inhibition of the enzyme by the analyzed compounds shows their potential to be used as cognition-enhancing agents. For the most potent compound (arjunglucoside I; ARG), the kinetics of AChE inhibition were tested. The Michaelis–Menten constant (Km) for the hydrolysis of the acetylthiocholine iodide substrate was calculated to be 0.011 mM.
Leprosy Neuropathy in a Non-Endemic Area: A Clinical and Pathological Study
Authors: Cotti Piccinelli Stefano , Tagliapietra Matteo , Cavallaro Tiziana , Labella Beatrice , Risi Barbara , Caria Filomena , Damioli Simona , Poli Loris , Padovani Alessandro , Ferrari Sergio , Filosto Massimiliano
Published: September 2023

The extent of nerve involvement in leprosy is highly variable in distribution and clinical presentation. Mononeuropathies, multiple mononeuropathies, and polyneuropathies can present both in the context of a cutaneous and/or systemic picture and in the form of pure neuritic leprosy (PNL). The differential diagnosis of leprosy neuropathy remains challenging because it is a very rare condition and, especially in Western countries, is often overlooked. We report one case of the polyneuropathic form of PNL (P-PNL) and one case of multiple mononeuropathy in paucibacillary leprosy. In both cases, the diagnosis was achieved by performing a sural nerve biopsy, which showed subverted structure, severe infiltration of inflammatory cells in nerve fascicles, granulomatous abnormalities, and the presence of alcohol-acid-resistant, Ziehl–Neelsen-positive bacilli inside the nerve bundles. Leprosy remains an endemic disease in many areas of the world, and globalization has led to the spread of cases in previously disease-free countries. In this perspective, our report emphasizes that the diagnostic possibility of leprosy neuropathy should always be taken into account, even in Western countries, in the differential diagnostic process of an acquired sensory polyneuropathy or multineuropathy and confirms that nerve biopsy remains a useful procedure in working up neuropathies with unknown etiology.