bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive Analysis of the Role of Gene Variants in Matrix Metalloproteinases and Their Tissue Inhibitors in Retinopathy of Prematurity: A Study in the Polish Population
Authors: Choręziak-Michalak Aneta , Szpecht Dawid , Chmielarz-Czarnocińska Anna , Seremak-Mrozikiewicz Agnieszka , Drews Krzysztof , Kurzawińska Grażyna , Strauss Ewa , Gotz-Więckowska Anna
Published: October 2023

This study was designed to investigate the relationship between variants of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1 rs179975, MMP-9 rs17576 and rs17577), their tissue inhibitors (TIMP-1 rs4898, TIMP-2 rs2277698 and rs55743137) and the development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in infants from the Polish population. A cohort of 100 premature infants (47% female) was enrolled, including 50 ROP cases and 50 no-ROP controls. Patients with ROP were divided into those with spontaneous remission and those requiring treatment. A positive association between MMP-1 rs179975 1G deletion allele and ROP was observed in the log-additive model (OR = 5.01; p = 0.048). Furthermore, female neonates were observed to have a negative association between the TIMP-1 rs4898C allele and the occurrence of ROP and ROP requiring treatment (codominant models with respective p-values < 0.05 and 0.043). Two and three loci interactions between MMP-1 rs1799750 and TIMP1rs4989 (p = 0.015), as well as MMP-1 rs1799750, MMP-9 rs17576 and TIMP-1 rs4989 (p = 0.0003) variants influencing the ROP risk were also observed. In conclusion, these findings suggest a potential role of MMPs and TIMPs genetic variations in the development of ROP in the Polish population. Further studies using a larger group of premature infants will be required for validation.
Mining of Minor Disease Resistance Genes in V. vinifera Grapes Based on Transcriptome
Authors: Liu Junli , Wang Liang , Jiang Shan , Wang Zhilei , Li Hua , Wang Hua
Published: October 2023

Intraspecific recurrent selection in V. vinifera is an effective method for grape breeding with high quality and disease resistance. The core theory of this method is the substitution accumulation of multi-genes with low disease resistance. The discovery of multi-genes for disease resistance in V. vinifera may provide a molecular basis for breeding for disease resistance in V. vinifera. In this study, resistance to downy mildew was identified, and genetic analysis was carried out in the intraspecific crossing population of V. vinifera (Ecolly × Dunkelfelder) to screen immune, highly resistant and disease-resistant plant samples; transcriptome sequencing and differential expression analysis were performed using high-throughput sequencing. The results showed that there were 546 differential genes (194 up-regulated and 352 down-regulated) in the immune group compared to the highly resistant group, and 199 differential genes (50 up-regulated and 149 down-regulated) in the highly resistant group compared to the resistant group, there were 103 differential genes (54 up-regulated and 49 down-regulated) in the immune group compared to the resistant group. KEGG analysis of differentially expressed genes in the immune versus high-resistance group. The pathway is mainly concentrated in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, starch and sucrose metabolism, MAPK signaling pathway–plant, carotenoid biosyn-thesis and isoquinoline alkaloid biosynthesis. The differential gene functions of immune and resistant, high-resistant and resistant combinations were mainly enriched in plant–pathogen interaction pathway. Through the analysis of disease resistance-related genes in each pathway, the potential minor resistance genes in V. vinifera were mined, and the accumulation of minor resistance genes was analyzed from the molecular level.
Vitamin D Improves Cognitive Impairment and Alleviates Ferroptosis via the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Aging Mice
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Cao Yang , Xu Jie , Li Jing , Lv Chunmei , Gao Qiang , Zhang Chi , Jin Chongfei , Wang Ran , Jiao Runsheng , Zhu Hui
Published: October 2023

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent mode of cell death associated with the occurrence and development of age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Currently, there are no effective drugs available to prevent or treat these aging-related neurodegenerative diseases. Vitamin D (VD) is an antioxidant and immunomodulator, but its relationship with ferroptosis in aging-related neurodegenerative diseases has not been extensively studied. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of VD in learning and memory in aging mice. To examine whether VD protects aging hippocampal neurons, we used physiologically active 1,25(OH)2D3. We established aging models in vivo (C57BL/6 mice) and in vitro (HT22 cells) using D-galactose (D-gal). The results demonstrated that VD could improve learning and memory in mice aged via the use of D-gal, and it reduced damage to hippocampal neurons. VD could regulate ferroptosis-related proteins (increasing GPX4 expression and decreasing ACSL4 and ALOX15 protein expression levels), increasing GSH levels, reducing MDA and intracellular and mitochondrial ROS levels, as well as total iron and Fe2+ levels, and improving mitochondrial morphology, thereby alleviating ferroptosis in aging hippocampal neurons. Additionally, VD activated the VDR/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting ferroptosis. Notably, when the VDR was knocked down, VD lost its ability to activate Nrf2. Consequently, inhibiting Nrf2 decreased the protective effect of VD against ferroptosis in aged hippocampal neurons. In summary, VD activates the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway through the VDR, effectively preventing ferroptosis induced by aging in hippocampal neurons.
Investigating Antibody Reactivity to the Intestinal Microbiome in Severe Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS): A Feasibility Study
Authors: Seton Katharine A. , Defernez Marianne , Telatin Andrea , Tiwari Sumeet K. , Savva George M. , Hayhoe Antonietta , Noble Alistair , de Carvalho-KoK Ana L. S. , James Steve A. , Bansal Amolak , Wileman Thomas , Carding Simon R.
Published: October 2023

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a multisystemic disease of unknown aetiology that is characterised by disabling chronic fatigue and involves both the immune and gastrointestinal (GI) systems. Patients display alterations in GI microbiome with a significant proportion experiencing GI discomfort and pain and elevated blood biomarkers for altered intestinal permeability compared with healthy individuals. To investigate a possible GI origin of ME/CFS we designed a feasibility study to test the hypothesis that ME/CFS pathogenesis is a consequence of increased intestinal permeability that results in microbial translocation and a breakdown in immune tolerance leading to generation of antibodies reactive to indigenous intestinal microbes. Secretory immunoglobulin (Ig) A and serum IgG levels and reactivity to intestinal microbes were assessed in five pairs of severe ME/CFS patients and matched same-household healthy controls. For profiling serum IgG, we developed IgG-Seq which combines flow-cytometry based bacterial cell sorting and metagenomics to detect mucosal IgG reactivity to the microbiome. We uncovered evidence for immune dysfunction in severe ME/CFS patients that was characterised by reduced capacity and reactivity of serum IgG to stool microbes, irrespective of their source. This study provides the rationale for additional studies in larger cohorts of ME/CFS patients to further explore immune–microbiome interactions.
The Cellular and Protein Arms of Coagulation in Diabetes: Established and Potential Targets for the Reduction of Thrombotic Risk
Authors: Safdar Nawaz Z. , Kietsiriroje Noppadol , Ajjan Ramzi A.
Published: October 2023

Diabetes is a metabolic condition with a rising global prevalence and is characterised by abnormally high blood glucose levels. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) accounts for the majority of deaths in diabetes and, despite improvements in therapy, mortality and hospitalisations in this cohort remain disproportionally higher compared to individuals with normal glucose metabolism. One mechanism for increased CVD risk is enhanced thrombosis potential, due to altered function of the cellular and acellular arms of coagulation. Different mechanisms have been identified that mediate disordered blood clot formation and breakdown in diabetes, including dysglycaemia, insulin resistance, and metabolic co-morbidities. Collectively, these induce platelet/endothelial dysfunction and impair the fibrinolytic process, thus creating a prothrombotic milieu. Despite these abnormalities, current antithrombotic therapies are largely similar in diabetes compared to those without this condition, which explains the high proportion of patients experiencing treatment failure while also displaying an increased risk of bleeding events. In this narrative review, we aimed to summarise the physiological functioning of haemostasis followed by the pathological effects of diabetes mellitus on platelets and the fibrin network. Moreover, we carefully reviewed the literature to describe the current and future therapeutic targets to lower the thrombosis risk and improve vascular outcomes in diabetes.
On the Use of Kullback–Leibler Divergence for Kernel Selection and Interpretation in Variational Autoencoders for Feature Creation
Authors: Mendonça Fábio , Mostafa Sheikh Shanawaz , Morgado-Dias Fernando , Ravelo-García Antonio G.
Published: October 2023

This study presents a novel approach for kernel selection based on Kullback–Leibler divergence in variational autoencoders using features generated by the convolutional encoder. The proposed methodology focuses on identifying the most relevant subset of latent variables to reduce the model’s parameters. Each latent variable is sampled from the distribution associated with a single kernel of the last encoder’s convolutional layer, resulting in an individual distribution for each kernel. Relevant features are selected from the sampled latent variables to perform kernel selection, which filters out uninformative features and, consequently, unnecessary kernels. Both the proposed filter method and the sequential feature selection (standard wrapper method) were examined for feature selection. Particularly, the filter method evaluates the Kullback–Leibler divergence between all kernels’ distributions and hypothesizes that similar kernels can be discarded as they do not convey relevant information. This hypothesis was confirmed through the experiments performed on four standard datasets, where it was observed that the number of kernels can be reduced without meaningfully affecting the performance. This analysis was based on the accuracy of the model when the selected kernels fed a probabilistic classifier and the feature-based similarity index to appraise the quality of the reconstructed images when the variational autoencoder only uses the selected kernels. Therefore, the proposed methodology guides the reduction of the number of parameters of the model, making it suitable for developing applications for resource-constrained devices.
Heavy-Fermion Properties of Yb2Pd2SnH≈2
Authors: Maskova-Cerna Silvie , Bauer Ernst , Giovannini Mauro , Havela Ladislav
Published: October 2023

A hydride of Yb2Pd2Sn could be synthesized with approximately 2 H atoms per f.u. The hydrogenation leads to a volume expansion while preserving the tetragonal symmetry (P4/mbm). The lattice reaction is strongly anisotropic, and the 5% expansion in c is partly compensated by the 0.5% compression in a. The hydride is paramagnetic at least down to 0.5 K. Yb remains at or very close to the 3+ (4f13) state, as in Yb2Pd2Sn. Specific heat C/T vs. T shows an upturn existing already in Yb2Pd2Sn, but it is much more pronounced in the hydride (1.8 J/mol f.u. K2 for T → 0, i.e., more than twice higher than in its precursor). This is interpreted as lowering the Kondo temperature due to H bonding.
Advances in Musculoskeletal Imaging and Their Applications
Authors: Piórkowski Adam , Obuchowicz Rafał , Urbanik Andrzej , Strzelecki Michał
Published: October 2023

Modern medical imaging systems provide ever-more information about the patient’s health condition [...]
Changes in the End-of-Life Process in Patients with Life-Limiting Diseases through the Intervention of the Pediatric Palliative Care Team
Authors: Kwon Jung Eun , Kim Yeo Hyang
Published: October 2023

Kyungpook National University Children’s Hospital initiated pediatric palliative care (PPC) services in January 2019, focusing on children and adolescents with life-limiting conditions (LLC). A study examined changes in the end-of-life processes in patients with LLC before and after a PPC intervention. This study included 48 deceased patients under 18 years at the hospital, divided into two groups: January 2015 to December 2016 without PPC (25 patients, Period 1) and January 2019 to April 2022 with PPC (23 patients, Period 2). Analysis of medical records revealed the following: no age/sex differences; more active advanced care planning in Period 2 (15/23 vs. 7/25, p = 0.01); discussing withholding/withdrawing treatment increased in Period 2 (91.3% vs. 64.0%, p = 0.025); intubation and CPR were less frequent in Period 2 (intubation 2/23 vs. 19/25, p = 0.000; CPR 3/23 vs. 11/25, p = 0.018); Period 1 had more deaths in the ICU (18/25 vs. 10/23, p = 0.045); and 3 patients in Period 2 chose home deaths. A survey in Period 2 revealed high satisfaction with emotional support (91.7%), practical assistance (91.6%), and symptom management (83.3%). PPC facilitated discussions on advanced care planning and treatment choices, ensuring peaceful and prepared farewells for children with LLC and their families.
Outcome of Monochorionic Diamniotic Twins with Twin Reversed Arterial Perfusion Sequence: Interstitial Laser versus Endoscopic Cord Occlusion
Authors: Walasik Izabela , Litwinska Magdalena , Janiak Katarzyna , Szaflik Krzysztof , Kaczmarek Piotr , Ludwin Artur , Litwinska Ewelina
Published: October 2023

Twin reversed arterial perfusion sequence (TRAP) is a rare complication of monochorionic twins (MC). This study aimed to describe and compare the short- and long-term outcomes of MC pregnancies with the TRAP sequence treated with two different techniques: interstitial fetal laser (IFL) (n = 22) versus endoscopic cord occlusion (CO) (n = 24). The study population included 46 MC pregnancies with TRAP. Pregnancy loss within 2 weeks after the procedure occurred in 27% of cases (6/22) in the group treated with IFL and in 8% of cases (2/24) in the group treated with CO. The survival rate of the pump twin was 73% (16/22) in the IFL group and 83% (20/24) in the group treated with CO. The median gestational age at birth was 38 weeks in the group treated with IFL and 35 weeks in the group treated with CO. The rate of preterm birth before 34 weeks was 12.5% (2/16) in the group treated with IFL and 32% (7/22) in the group treated with CO. In the group treated with IFL, there were no cases of neurological disabilities reported by the parents compared to three cases in the CO group. IFL is associated with a higher risk of early pregnancy loss; however, if the pregnancy progresses, it is associated with lower risks of preterm birth and neurological disabilities in the survivors.
Diabetic Polyneuropathy and Physical Activity in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zaccaria Simona , Di Perna Pasquale , Giurato Laura , Pecchioli Chiara , Sperti Patrizia , Arciprete Flavio , Del Grande Alessandra , Nardone Isabella , Wolde Sellasie Sium , Iani Cesare , Uccioli Luigi
Published: October 2023

Background: The purpose of this study is to access whether a personal attitude to physical activity (PA) may influence the appearance of diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) patients with well-controlled type 1 diabetes mellitus. Methods: Ninety patients attending the diabetes technology outpatient clinic were enrolled. DPN was investigated according to the Toronto consensus diagnostic criteria. PA was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Results: PA was low in 21.1%, moderate in 42.2% and high in 36.7% of patients. According to Toronto criteria, we defined two categories: the first one with DPN absent or possible (57 (63.3%)) and a second one with DPN certain or probable (33 (36.7%)). The χ2-test of the PA groups and the DPN categories showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001), with less neuropathy in patients belonging to the group of moderate/high PA. Exposure to a minimum of 600 MET minutes/week was protective factor against the onset of DPN (odd ratio 0.221, c.i. 0.068–0.720, p = 0.012). Conclusions: This study suggests that DPN is less present in type 1 diabetic patients with good metabolic control and a good personal habit of PA. Moderate-to-vigorous PA of at least 600 MET minutes/week might be a protective factor against DPN.
Trabecular Meshwork Movement Controls Distal Valves and Chambers: New Glaucoma Medical and Surgical Targets
Authors: Johnstone Murray , Xin Chen , Martin Elizabeth , Wang Ruikang
Published: October 2023

Herein, we provide evidence that human regulation of aqueous outflow is by a pump-conduit system similar to that of the lymphatics. Direct observation documents pulsatile aqueous flow into Schlemm’s canal and from the canal into collector channels, intrascleral channels, aqueous veins, and episcleral veins. Pulsatile flow in vessels requires a driving force, a chamber with mobile walls and valves. We demonstrate that the trabecular meshwork acts as a deformable, mobile wall of a chamber: Schlemm’s canal. A tight linkage between the driving force of intraocular pressure and meshwork deformation causes tissue responses in milliseconds. The link provides a sensory-motor baroreceptor-like function, providing maintenance of a homeostatic setpoint. The ocular pulse causes meshwork motion oscillations around the setpoint. We document valves entering and exiting the canal using real-time direct observation with a microscope and multiple additional modalities. Our laboratory-based high-resolution SD-OCT platform quantifies valve lumen opening and closing within milliseconds synchronously with meshwork motion; meshwork tissue stiffens, and movement slows in glaucoma tissue. Our novel PhS-OCT system measures nanometer-level motion synchronous with the ocular pulse in human subjects. Movement decreases in glaucoma patients. Our model is robust because it anchors laboratory studies to direct observation of physical reality in humans with glaucoma.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis—Review of the Current Status
Authors: Kwasnik Malgorzata , Rola Jerzy , Rozek Wojciech
Published: October 2023

The tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is the arboviral etiological agent of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), considered to be one of the most important tick-borne viral diseases in Europe and Asia. In recent years, an increase in the incidence of TBE as well as an increasing geographical range of the disease have been noted. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and the imposition of restrictions that it necessitated, the incidence of TBE is rising in more than half of the European countries analyzed in recent studies. The virus is transmitted between ticks, animals, and humans. It seems that ticks and small mammals play a role in maintaining TBEV in nature. The disease can also affect dogs, horses, cattle, and small ruminants. Humans are incidental hosts, infected through the bite of an infected tick or by the alimentary route, through the consumption of unpasteurized milk or milk products from TBEV-infected animals. TBEV infections in humans may be asymptomatic, but the symptoms can range from mild flu-like to severe neurological. In Europe, cases of TBE are reported every year. While there is currently no effective treatment for TBE, immunization and protection against tick bites are critical in preventing this disease.
Dyeing Improvement and Stability of Antibacterial Properties in Chitosan-Modified Cotton and Polyamide 6,6 Fabrics
Authors: Piccioni Marta , Peila Roberta , Varesano Alessio , Vineis Claudia
Published: October 2023

Cotton and polyamide 6,6 fabrics coated with chitosan, a natural biopolymer, have been tested against two different bacteria strains: Staphylococcus aureus as Gram-positive bacterium and Escherichia coli as Gram-negative bacterium. Using the ASTM standard method (Standard Test Method for Determining the Antimicrobial Activity of Antimicrobial Agents Under Dynamic Contact Conditions) for antibacterial testing, the treated fabrics is contacted for 1 h with the bacterial inoculum, the present study aims to investigate the possibility to reach interesting results considering shorter contact times. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of chitosan-treated fibers dyed with a natural dye, Carmine Red, was evaluated since chitosan has an interesting property that favors the attachment of the dye to the fiber (cross-linking ability). Finally, fabric samples were tested after washing cycles to verify the resistance of the dye and if the antibacterial property was maintained.
Review on Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata) Aquaculture: Life Cycle, Growth, Aquaculture Practices and Challenges
Authors: Mhalhel Kamel , Levanti Maria , Abbate Francesco , Laurà Rosaria , Guerrera Maria Cristina , Aragona Marialuisa , Porcino Caterina , Briglia Marilena , Germanà Antonino , Montalbano Giuseppe
Published: October 2023

Over the years, the gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), a prominent species in Mediterranean aquaculture with an increasing production volume and aquafarming technologies, has become an important research focus. The accumulation of knowledge via several studies during the past decades on their functional and biological characteristics has significantly improved the aquacultural aspects, namely their reproductive success, survival, and growth. Despite the remarkable progress in the aquaculture industry, hatchery conditions are still far from ideal, resulting in frequent challenges at the beginning of intensive culture, entailing significant economic losses. Given its increasing importance and the persistent challenges faced in its aquacultural practices, a thorough review is essential to consolidate knowledge, and elucidate the intricate facets concerning its distribution, life cycle, growth dynamics, genetics, aquaculture methodologies, economic dimensions, and the challenges inherent to its cultivation.
Derivative of Reduced Cumulative Distribution Function and Applications
Authors: Maritato Kevin , Uryasev Stan
Published: October 2023

The reduced cumulative distribution function (rCDF) is the maximal lower bound for the cumulative distribution function (CDF). It is equivalent to the inverse of the conditional value at risk (CVaR), or one minus the buffered probability of exceedance (bPOE). This paper introduces the reduced probability density function (rPDF), the derivative of rCDF. We first explore the relation between rCDF and other risk measures. Then we describe three means of calculating rPDF for a distribution, depending on what is known about the distribution. For functions with a closed-form formula for bPOE, we derive closed-form formulae for rPDF. Further, we describe formulae for rPDF based on a numerical bPOE when there is a closed-form formula for CVaR but no closed-form formula for bPOE. Finally, we give a method for numerically calculating rPDF for an empirical distribution, and compare the results with other methods for known distributions. We conducted a case study and used rPDF for sensitivity analysis and parameter estimation with a method similar to the maximum likelihood method.
A Preliminary Study on the Utilization of Hyperspectral Imaging for the On-Soil Recognition of Plastic Waste Resulting from Agricultural Activities
Authors: Bonifazi Giuseppe , Francesconi Eleuterio , Gasbarrone Riccardo , Palmieri Roberta , Serranti Silvia
Published: October 2023

Plastic in agriculture is frequently used to protect crops and its use boosts output, enhances food quality, contributes to minimize water consumption, and reduces the environmental impacts of agricultural activities. On the other hand, end-of-life plastic management and disposal are the main issues related to their presence in this kind of environment, especially in respect of plastic degradation, if not properly handled (i.e., storage places directly in contact with the ground, exposure of stocks to meteoric agents for long periods, incorrect or incomplete removal). In this study, the possibility of using an in situ near infrared (NIR: 1000–1700 nm) hyperspectral imaging detection architecture for the recognition of various plastic wastes in agricultural soils in order to identify their presence and also assess their degradation from a recovery/recycling perspective was explored. In more detail, a Partial Least Squares—Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) classifier capable of identifying plastic waste from soil was developed, implemented, and set up. Results showed that hyperspectral imaging, in combination with chemometric approaches, allows the utilization of a rapid, non-destructive, and non-invasive analytical approach for characterizing the plastic waste produced in agriculture, as well as the potential assessment of their lifespan.
Landscape-Scale Long-Term Drought Prevalence Mapping for Small Municipalities Adaptation, the Czech Republic Case Study
Authors: Floková Ludmila , Mikita Tomáš
Published: October 2023

Drought is a phenomenon that is strengthening with the progress of climate change. Many fields of human activities such as agriculture, forestry, ecology, economy, water supply, or energy production are affected. Municipalities are one of the most important actors, because final adaptation often takes place at this level. However, planning measures is challenging for small municipalities, with adaptation capacity being lower than in big cities. A model working with data from the Global Change research Institute CzechGlobe and the Czech national drought monitor Intersucho allows for information to be obtained at the landscape scale about drought, and their utilization for small municipalities is introduced. In addition to detailed maps for the years 1991–2014, the model enables long-term prediction of drought prevalence for the years 2021–2040 and 2041–2060. GIS-integrated Random Forest regression and twelve climate, topography, and land use/land cover variables were involved in the model construction. The tuned model could explain 70% of reference data variability, and was used for drought prevalence mapping in 20 m spatial detail. Utilisation of overlay and visualisation tools and consultation of actual spatial planning maps helped create maps for spatial decision-making support in precautionary measure and landscape management within the municipalities.
Reviewing Historic Urban Water Transitions to Advance Water-Sensitive Urban Design for Bhuj, India
Authors: van der Meulen Geert J. M. , Mishra Gargi , van Dorst Machiel J. , Iyer Mona , Bacchin Taneha Kuzniecow
Published: October 2023

In rapidly growing urban contexts, water plays a pivotal role in the transitions the urban environment goes through to sustain the quality of life of its population. Spatial planning and design are essential for the facilitation and manifestation of such transitions. Focusing on Bhuj, a rapidly growing Indian city in a hot arid desert climate, its crucial yet changing sensitivity to urban water flows over time is assessed. The concept of water sensitivity is coined as a goal to pursue by the Water-Sensitive Urban Design approach. In India, however, much of the urban design and development processes are of an unplanned and informal nature, seemingly inhibiting the water sensitivity of urban transitions. Reviewing spatial planning paradigms and their manifestation in space in Bhuj over time, however, brings to light a pre-existing water sensitivity. Yet it also shows a shift from the supply security-oriented ingenious watershed expansion to catastrophe-steered and urban expansion-driven water system negligence. Review and discussion of past and present urban water transitions and management points out drivers, barriers, and their interrelationships, to enable and advance water-sensitive urban development tied to local history, traditional knowledge, and context specificities.
Evaluation of the Effect of an Intraperitoneal Cytostatic-Loaded Supramolecular Hydrogel on Intestinal Anastomotic Healing in an Animal Model
Authors: Heuvelings Danique J. I. , Wintjens Anne G. W. E. , Jongen Audrey C. H. M. , Gielen Maurits J. C. A. M. , Lenaerts Kaatje , Fransen Peter-Paul K. H. , Gijbels Marion J. , van Almen Geert C. , Dankers Patricia Y. W. , de Hingh Ignace H. J. T. , Bouvy Nicole D.
Published: October 2023

The prognosis of colorectal cancer patients with peritoneal metastases is very poor. Intraperitoneal drug delivery systems, like supramolecular hydrogels, are being developed to improve local delivery and intraperitoneal residence time of a cytostatic such as mitomycin C (MMC). In this study, we evaluate the effect of intraperitoneal hydrogel administration on anastomotic healing. Forty-two healthy Wistar rats received a colonic end-to-end anastomosis, after which 6 animals received an intraperitoneal injection with saline, 18 with unloaded hydrogel and 18 with MMC-loaded hydrogel. After 7 days, animals were euthanized, and the anastomotic adhesion and leakage score were measured as primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were bursting pressure, histological anastomosis evaluation and body weight changes. Twenty-two rats completed the follow-up period (saline: n = 6, unloaded hydrogel: n = 10, MMC-loaded hydrogel: n = 6) and were included in the analysis. A trend towards significance was found for anastomotic leakage score between the rats receiving saline and unloaded hydrogel after multiple-comparison correction (p = 0.020, α = 0.0167). No significant differences were found for all other outcomes. The main reason for drop-out in this study was intestinal blood loss. Although the preliminary results suggest that MMC-loaded or unloaded hydrogel does not influence anastomotic healing, the intestinal blood loss observed in a considerable number of animals receiving unloaded and MMC-loaded hydrogel implies that the injection of the hydrogel under the studied conditions is not safe in the current rodent model and warrants further optimalisation of the hydrogel.
A Behavioral Characteristics Observational Measure of Youth with Somatic Symptom Disorder during Physical Rehabilitation
Authors: Barak Sharon , Landa Jana , Gerner Maya , Eisenstein Etzyona , Arzoni Bardach Chen , Silberg Tamar
Published: October 2023

Background: Youth with somatic symptom disorder (SSD) present unique behavioral characteristics. Aims: To develop and examine the psychometric properties of an observational measure of behavioral characteristics for youth with SSD (the Somatization Behavioral Characteristics Questionnaire, SBCQ). Methods: N = 80 youth with SSD and 31 with non-SSD impairments participated in this study (age = 13.91 ± 2.72, 14 ± 3.21, respectively; females: n = 61, 14, respectively). Symptom intensity (Children’s Somatization Inventory-24; CSI-24), functional disability (Six-Minute Walk Test, walking rate of perceived exertion), and the SBCQ were assessed. SBCQ reliability and validity were examined. Results: SBCQ had acceptable reliability in both groups (Cronbach’s α > 0.7). Exploratory factor analysis in the SSD group revealed a three-cluster solution. Significant associations were found between the SBCQ, CSI-24, and functional disability. Both groups differed in the prevalence of all SBCQ behaviors. The greatest differences were in the mismatch between etiology and clinical presentation, and in the exhibited lack of trust in the therapist and “la belle indifference”. Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that the SBCQ has moderate accuracy in discriminating between the two groups (area under the curve = 0.80). Sensitivity and specificity were 82.5% and 73.3%, respectively. Conclusions: The SBCQ is psychometrically sound. Findings may aid in developing sensitive assessment tools for SSD and continuing education for therapists.
Evolutions of Cube ({001}<100>) and {115}<161> Orientations in Cold-Rolled Ultra-Thin Non-Oriented Silicon Steel
Authors: Tu Yang , Meng Li , Zhang Ning , Xu Jiangjie
Published: October 2023

In this study, the evolutions of Cube and {115}<161> orientations of a cold-rolled ultra-thin non-oriented silicon steel were investigated using a combination of experimental investigation and the crystal plasticity finite element method (CPFEM). The results show that Cube orientations remain relatively stable when their initial deviation angles from the ideal Cube orientation are less than 12°, even after a 60% cold rolling reduction. However, larger deviations occur due to higher strain near grain boundaries. Furthermore, the {115}<161> orientations, with an initial deviation of ~18° from the ideal Cube orientation, become separated into different orientation regions during cold rolling. Some regions gradually approach the ideal Cube orientation as cold rolling progresses and reach ~12.5° deviation from the ideal Cube at a 40% reduction. This study demonstrates good agreement between simulation and experimental results, highlights the micro-deformation mechanisms during rolling, and offers insights for optimizing the ultra-thin strip rolling process.
The Characteristic of {101¯2}<101¯1¯> Twin of Ti-10V-2Fe-3Al under Planar Wave Detonation
Authors: Wang Tong , Yang Ping , Zhang Jin , Gu Xin-Fu
Published: October 2023

The microstructure evolution of the twin of TB6 (Ti-10V-2Fe-3Al) under planar wave detonation was studied. The initial microstructure of the alloy consists of an α and β phase. It is found that twin deformation is operated in only the α phase due to the limited slip system in this phase. α grains are mainly rotated from {101¯0} to {0002} during the deformation due to the {101¯2}<101¯1¯> twin. Twin variant selection is found in this study, and the orientation of all {101¯2} twins is oriented at {0002} in different α grains with different deformation degrees. The twin variant selection is well explained based on the strain relaxation along the loading axis and the Schmid factor for twinning shear.
Study of Wire-Cut Electro-Discharge Machining of Heat-Resistant Nickel Alloys
Authors: Ablyaz Timur Rizovich , Shlykov Evgeny Sergeevich , Muratov Karim Ravilevich , Sidhu Sarabjeet Singh , Mikhailovich Dmitry , Takhirovich Khairulin Vadim
Published: October 2023

This paper presents an analysis and theoretical model for assessing the quality and accuracy of wire-cut electro-discharge machining (WEDM) of products made from novel heat-resistant nickel alloys such as CrNi56KVMTYB. It is observed that WEDM processing of Ni alloy led to high surface roughness for the thick specimens, and electrical parameters such as pulse duration for the selected range depict an insignificant role in the value of surface roughness. On the other hand, the cut width of the machined surface decreases as the pulse duration increases, while the cut width is elevated for thick workpieces. Secondary discharges developed in WEDM have negative effects that cause sludge adhering and deterioration in the quality and productivity of processing. The regression model is developed to predict the surface roughness and cut width of machined surfaces, which holds significant importance in modern engineering. The workpiece is examined for surface integrity and material deposition. It is observed that an increase in the height of the specimen leads to the occurrence of secondary discharges, which in turn results in the formation of cracks on the surfaces of high-temperature nickel alloys. These cracks have a detrimental effect on the performance of critical products made from next-generation heat-resistant nickel alloys.
Improving Mechanical Properties of Mg-Al-RE Alloys with the Formed Dimples of Al10Mn2RE Particles and Activated Pyramidal  Slip with Mn Additions
Authors: Yang Jiandong , Wang Wuxiao , Zhang Min , Liu Jian , Qin Shaoyong
Published: October 2023

The effects of Mn addition on the room temperature tensile strength and deformation mechanisms of as-cast Mg-8Al-1Nd-1.5Gd-xMn alloys (x = 0, 0.3, 0.5, 1.0 wt.%) are investigated in this paper. The results indicate that the addition of Mn contributes to the precipitation of Al-Mn-RE intermetallics and the refinement of α-Mg matrices, thereby improving the tensile strength of the 1.0 Mn alloy at 190 MPa. The fracture mechanism of Mn-containing alloys transforms from a cleavage fracture to a ductile fracture as the Mn content increases from 0.3 to 1.0 wt.%. The presence of intermetallic particles in the dimples confirms the hindrance effect of Al10Mn2 (Nd,Gd) on dislocation slips. The novel technology of in-grain misorientation axes (IGMAs) is used to identify activated slip modes and deformation twins. It can be concluded that the activated pyramidal  slip during tensile deformation significantly promotes the ductility of the 1.0 Mn alloy with an elongation rate of 9.8%. It is worth noting that reducing the coarse 101¯2 tensile twins and enhancing the proportion of 101¯1 compressive twins and 101¯1-101¯2 double twins contributes to maintaining the continuous plastic deformation of Mg alloy.
Approximation of Brownian Motion on Simple Graphs
Authors: Anastassiou George A. , Kouloumpou Dimitra
Published: October 2023

This article is based on chapters 9 and 19 of the new neural network approximation monograph written by the first author. We use the approximation properties coming from the parametrized and deformed neural networks based on the parametrized error and q-deformed and β-parametrized half-hyperbolic tangent activation functions. So, we implement a univariate theory on a compact interval that is ordinary and fractional. The result is the quantitative approximation of Brownian motion on simple graphs: in particular over a system S of semiaxes emanating from a common origin radially arranged and a particle moving randomly on S. We produce a large variety of Jackson-type inequalities, calculating the degree of approximation of the engaged neural network operators to a general expectation function of this kind of Brownian motion. We finish with a detailed list of approximation applications related to the expectation of important functions of this Brownian motion. The differentiability of our functions is taken into account, producing higher speeds of approximation.
Modulations of Collapsing Stochastic Modified NLSE Structures
Authors: Abdelrahman Mahmoud A. E. , El-Shewy Emad K. , Omar Y. , Abdo N. F.
Published: October 2023

The exact solutions of the nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE) predict consistent novel applicable existences such as solitonic localized structures, rouge forms, and shocks that rely on physical phenomena to propagate. Theoretical explanations of randomly nonlinear new extension NLSE structure solutions have undergone stochastic mode examination. This equation enables accurate and efficient solutions capable of simulating developed solitonic structures with dynamic features. The generated random waves are a dynamically regulated system that are influenced by random water currents behaviour. It has been noticed that the stochastic parameter modulates the wave force and supplies the wave collapsing energy with related medium turbulence. It has been observed that noise effects can alter wave characteristics, which may lead to innovative astrophysics, physical density, and ocean waves.
Numerical Investigation of Radiative Hybrid Nanofluid Flows over a Plumb Cone/Plate
Authors: Peter Francis , Sambath Paulsamy , Dhanasekaran Seshathiri
Published: October 2023

Non-Newtonian fluids play a crucial role in applications involving heat transfer and mass transfer. The inclusion of nanoparticles in these fluids improves the efficiency of heat and mass transfer processes. This study employs a numerical solution approach to examine the flow of non-Newtonian hybrid nanofluids over a plumb cone/plate surface, considering the effects of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) and thermal radiation. Additionally, we investigate how heat and mass transfer are affected by a fluid containing microorganisms. The governing nonlinear partial differential equations are transformed into nonlinear ordinary differential equations using a similarity transformation to simplify this complex system. We then use the Keller-box finite-difference method to solve these equations. Along with a table presenting the results for skin friction, Nusselt number, Sherwood number, and microbe density number, we present graphical representations of velocity, temperature, concentration, and microorganism diffusion behavior. Our results indicate that the addition of MHD and thermal radiation improves the diffusion of microorganisms, thereby enhancing the rates of heat and mass transfer. Through a comparative analysis with prior research, we demonstrate the reliability of our conclusions.
Reduction in Degrees of Freedom for Large-Scale Nonlinear Systems in Computer-Assisted Proofs
Authors: Evstigneev Nikolay M. , Ryabkov Oleg I.
Published: October 2023

In many physical systems, it is important to know the exact trajectory of a solution. Relevant applications include celestial mechanics, fluid mechanics, robotics, etc. For cases where analytical methods cannot be applied, one can use computer-assisted proofs or rigorous computations. One can obtain a guaranteed bound for the solution trajectory in the phase space. The application of rigorous computations poses few problems for low-dimensional systems of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) but is a challenging problem for large-scale systems, for example, systems of ODEs obtained from the discretization of the PDEs. A large-scale system size for rigorous computations can be as small as about a hundred ODE equations because computational complexity for rigorous algorithms is much larger than that for simple computations. We are interested in the application of rigorous computations to the problem of proving the existence of a periodic orbit in the Kolmogorov problem for the Navier–Stokes equations. One of the key issues, among others, is the computation complexity, which increases rapidly with the growth of the problem dimension. In previous papers, we showed that 79 degrees of freedom are needed in order to achieve convergence of the rigorous algorithm only for the system of ordinary differential equations. Here, we wish to demonstrate the application of the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) in order to approximate the attracting set of the system and reduce the dimension of the active degrees of freedom.
Is the Surface Anatomy of the Popliteal Crease Related to Lower Extremity Alignment or Knee Osseous Morphology? A Radiographic Study
Authors: Lee Dong Hwan , Lee Hwa Sung , Kim Bo-Hyoung , Lee Se-Won
Published: October 2023

Background and objectives: The popliteal crease varies among individuals, and there has been no prior study on this aspect. We assumed that it may be associated with lower extremity alignment and osseous morphology. To demonstrate this, we conducted a radiographic analysis. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 121 knees of 63 patients, whose popliteal creases were well distinguished on clinical photographs. PCOA was defined as the angle between the longitudinal axis of the lower leg and the popliteal crease. Through the radiologic examinations performed, the HKA, MPTA, mLDFA, JLCA, MFCA/TEA, and PCA/TEA were measured. Pearson correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were performed on the PCOA and the six radiologic measurements to analyze the relationship. Results: Pearson correlation analysis found HKA had the highest coefficient at 0.568. In multiple linear regression, only HKA was associated, excluding all other measurements. Conclusions: Popliteal crease obliquity is significantly associated with coronal plane lower extremity alignment and exhibits a stronger correlation than with underlying knee osseous morphology. If future research is conducted based on this, popliteal crease could serve as a valuable clue for predicting lower extremity alignment and the risk of osteoarthritis development.
Investigation of Nurses’ Wellbeing towards Errors in Clinical Practice—The Role of Resilience
Authors: Pappa Despoina , Koutelekos Ioannis , Evangelou Eleni , Dousis Evangelos , Mangoulia Polyxeni , Gerogianni Georgia , Zartaloudi Afroditi , Toulia Georgia , Kelesi Martha , Margari Nikoletta , Ferentinou Eftychia , Stavropoulou Areti , Dafogianni Chrysoula
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: The fatigue, stress, and burnout of nurses lead to them frequently making mistakes, which have a negative impact not only on the safety of the patients but also on their psychology. The ability to bounce back from mistakes is crucial for nurses. Nursing staff members’ physical and mental health, particularly their depression, is far from ideal, and this ill health is directly correlated with the frequency of self-reported medical errors. The nurses’ mental and physical health are also positively correlated with their perception of wellness support at work. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the status of nurses’ mental and physical health regarding clinical errors and the impact of resilience on coping with these situations. Materials and Methods: A total of 364 healthcare professionals participated in this research; 87.5% of them were females and 12.5% of them were males. Most of the participants were 22–35 years old. The median number of years of employment was nine. Clinical nurses anonymously and voluntarily completed a special structured questionnaire that included questions from different validated tools in order to assess their state of physical and mental wellbeing after events of stress and errors made during their practice. Results: In total, 49.4% of the nurses had made an error on their own, and 73.2% had witnessed an error that someone else had made. At the time of the error, 29.9% of the participants were in charge of more than 20 patients, while 28.9% were responsible for a maximum of three patients. Participants who were 36–45 years old had more resilience (p = 0.049) and experienced fewer negative emotions than participants who were 22–35 years old. The participants who mentioned more positive feelings according to their mental state had greater resilience (p > 0.001). Conclusions: Errors were likely to happen during clinical practice due to nurses’ negative experiences. The level of resilience among the nursing population was found to play a very important role not only in making mistakes but also in coping with errors during their daily routine. Wellness and prevention must be given top priority in all healthcare systems across the country in order to promote nurses’ optimal health and wellbeing, raise the standard of care, and reduce the likelihood of expensive, avoidable medical errors. Healthcare administrations should promote prevention programs for stress occurrence in order to support nurses’ wellbeing maintenance.