bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endocytosis and Endocytic Motifs across the Connexin Gene Family
Authors: Fisher Charles G. , Falk Matthias M.
Published: August 2023

Proteins fated to be internalized by clathrin-mediated endocytosis require an endocytic motif, where AP-2 or another adaptor protein can bind and recruit clathrin. Tyrosine and di-leucine-based sorting signals are such canonical motifs. Connexin 43 (Cx43) has three canonical tyrosine-based endocytic motifs, two of which have been previously shown to recruit clathrin and mediate its endocytosis. In addition, di-leucine-based motifs have been characterized in the Cx32 C-terminal domain and shown to mediate its endocytosis. Here, we examined the amino acid sequences of all 21 human connexins to identify endocytic motifs across the connexin gene family. We find that although there is limited conservation of endocytic motifs between connexins, 14 of the 21 human connexins contain one or more canonical tyrosine or di-leucine-based endocytic motif in their C-terminal or intracellular loop domain. Three connexins contain non-canonical (modified) di-leucine motifs. However, four connexins (Cx25, Cx26, Cx31, and Cx40.1) do not harbor any recognizable endocytic motif. Interestingly, live cell time-lapse imaging of different GFP-tagged connexins that either contain or do not contain recognizable endocytic motifs readily undergo endocytosis, forming clearly identifiable annular gap junctions when expressed in HeLa cells. How connexins without defined endocytic motifs are endocytosed is currently not known. Our results demonstrate that an array of endocytic motifs exists in the connexin gene family. Further analysis will establish whether the sites we identified in this in silico analysis are legitimate endocytic motifs.
HLA-G Gene Variability Is Associated with Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Morbidity and the HLA-G Protein Profile
Authors: Bertol Bruna C. , Debortoli Guilherme , Dias Fabrício C. , de Araújo Jéssica N. G. , Maia Luana S. M. , de Almeida Bibiana S. , de Figueiredo-Feitosa Nathalie L. , de Freitas Luiz Carlos C. , Castelli Erick C. , Mendes-Junior Celso T. , Silbiger Vivian N. , Maciel Léa M. Z. , Donadi Eduardo A.
Published: August 2023

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G is an immune checkpoint molecule that is highly expressed in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). The HLA-G gene presents several functional polymorphisms distributed across the coding and regulatory regions (5′URR: 5′ upstream regulatory region and 3′UTR: 3′ untranslated region) and some of them may impact HLA-G expression and human malignancy. To understand the contribution of the HLA-G genetic background in PTC, we studied the HLA-G gene variability in PTC patients in association with tumor morbidity, HLA-G tissue expression, and plasma soluble (sHLA-G) levels. We evaluated 185 PTC patients and 154 healthy controls. Polymorphic sites defining coding, regulatory and extended haplotypes were characterized by sequencing analyses. HLA-G tissue expression and plasma soluble HLA-G levels were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and ELISA, respectively. Compared to the controls, the G0104a(5′URR)G*01:04:04(coding)UTR-03(3’UTR) extended haplotype was underrepresented in the PTC patients, while G0104a(5′URR)G*01:04:01(coding)UTR-03(3′UTR) was less frequent in patients with metastatic and multifocal tumors. Decreased HLA-G tissue expression and undetectable plasma sHLA-G were associated with the G010102a(5′URR)G*01:01:02:01(coding)UTR-02(3′UTR) extended haplotype. We concluded that the HLA-G variability was associated with PTC development and morbidity, as well as the magnitude of the encoded protein expression at local and systemic levels.
The Roles of Periodontal Bacteria in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Huang Xiaofei , Xie Mengru , Lu Xiaofeng , Mei Feng , Song Wencheng , Liu Yang , Chen Lili
Published: August 2023

Atherosclerosis (AS) is an inflammatory vascular disease that constitutes a major underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and stroke. Infection is a contributing risk factor for AS. Epidemiological evidence has implicated individuals afflicted by periodontitis displaying an increased susceptibility to AS and CVD. This review concisely outlines several prevalent periodontal pathogens identified within atherosclerotic plaques, including Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and Fusobacterium nucleatum. We review the existing epidemiological evidence elucidating the association between these pathogens and AS-related diseases, and the diverse mechanisms for which these pathogens may engage in AS, such as endothelial barrier disruption, immune system activation, facilitation of monocyte adhesion and aggregation, and promotion of foam cell formation, all of which contribute to the progression and destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques. Notably, the intricate interplay among bacteria underscores the complex impact of periodontitis on AS. In conclusion, advancing our understanding of the relationship between periodontal pathogens and AS will undoubtedly offer invaluable insights and potential therapeutic avenues for the prevention and management of AS.
Epigenetic Regulation in Lean Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Aggeletopoulou Ioanna , Kalafateli Maria , Tsounis Efthymios P. , Triantos Christos
Published: August 2023

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most prominent cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, is a rapidly growing epidemic. It consists of a wide range of liver diseases, from steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and predisposes patients to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD is strongly correlated with obesity; however, it has been extensively reported among lean/nonobese individuals in recent years. Although lean patients demonstrate a lower prevalence of diabetes mellitus, central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome, a percentage of these patients may develop steatohepatitis, advanced liver fibrosis, and cardiovascular disease, and have increased all-cause mortality. The pathophysiological mechanisms of lean NAFLD remain vague. Studies have reported that lean NAFLD demonstrates a close association with environmental factors, genetic predisposition, and epigenetic modifications. In this review, we aim to discuss and summarize the epigenetic mechanisms involved in lean NAFLD and to introduce the interaction between epigenetic patterns and genetic or non genetic factors. Several epigenetic mechanisms have been implicated in the regulation of lean NAFLD. These include DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding-RNA-mediated gene regulation. Epigenetics is an area of special interest in the setting of lean NAFLD as it could provide new insights into the therapeutic options and noninvasive biomarkers that target this under-recognized and challenging disorder.
Upper Airway Characteristics and Morphological Changes by Different MADs in OSA Adult Subjects Assessed by CBCT 3D Imaging
Authors: Venza Nicolò , Malara Arianna , Liguori Claudio , Cozza Paola , Laganà Giuseppina
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to analyse the effectiveness of four different designs of the Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) and the morphological changes on upper airway characteristics of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) patients inducted by each of them, detected by Cone Beam Computer Tomography (CBCT) 3D imaging. Twenty-two patients were recruited after an OSA diagnosis with PSG. Four different customised and titratable MADs were used and an initial CBCT scan was obtained for each patient. Six months after the end of the MAD titration phase, all the subjects performed a second PSG with the MAD in situ; the second PSG showed an Apnoea–Hypopnoea Index (AHI) of <5 or a decrease of 50% in AHI when compared with the initial AHI. Moreover, a second CBCT scan with the MAD in situ was performed. DICOM files were imported into the airway analysis software programme and the pharyngeal area around the oropharynx was highlighted. The area and volume of the oropharynx with and without the device was evaluated. A considerable improvement of the airway was observed (+33.76%), and a significant difference in the enlargement ratio between the posterior soft palate (+32.41%) and the posterior tongue (+36.96%) region was also found. The greatest increase in airway volume was achieved in patients treated with the MAD Forward and TAP (+42.77% and +41.63%, respectively). MAD therapy is effective to treat moderate to severe OSA with an increased upper airway volume. The design of the MAD can influence the effectiveness of the treatment.
Predictors of Length of Stay, Mortality and Rehospitalization in COPD Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lüthi-Corridori Giorgia , Boesing Maria , Ottensarendt Nicola , Leuppi-Taegtmeyer Anne Barbara , Schuetz Philipp , Leuppi Joerg Daniel
Published: August 2023

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a highly prevalent chronic lung disease that has a significant impact on individuals and healthcare systems worldwide. This study aimed to identify factors that predict the length of a hospital stay (LOHS), one-year mortality, and rehospitalization within 6 months in patients admitted for acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD). A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from 170 patients admitted to a district general hospital in Switzerland between January 2019 and February 2020. Sociodemographic and health-related variables measured at admission were analyzed as potential predictors. Multivariable zero-truncated negative binomial and logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the risk factors for LOHS (primary endpoint), mortality, and rehospitalization. The results show that an indication for oxygen supplementation was the only significant predictor of LOHS. In the logistic regression analysis, older age, COPD severity stages GOLD III and IV, active cancer and arrhythmias were associated with higher mortality, whereas rehabilitation after discharge was associated with lower mortality. There were no significant associations regarding rehospitalization. This study identified routinely available predictors for LOHS and mortality, which may further advance our understanding of AECOPD and thereby improve patient management, discharge planning, and hospital costs. The protective effect of rehabilitation after hospitalization regarding lower mortality warrants further confirmation and may improve the comprehensive management of patients with AECOPD.
Back Muscle Mass as a Predictor of Postoperative Complications in Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Surgery
Authors: Hong Seung-Wan , Rhee Ka-Young , Kim Tae-Hoon , Kim Seong-Hyop
Published: August 2023

Background: There is a lack of studies on utilising skeletal muscle mass via preoperative lumbar computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging as a predictor of postoperative complications of posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) surgery in elderly patients. Methods: Patients aged >65 years who underwent PLIF were enrolled. The sum of the cross-sectional areas of the erector spinae muscles (CSABoth) was presented as the skeletal muscle mass. Postoperative complications were assessed using CSABoth, pulmonary function testing, and prognostic nutritional index (PNI). Results: Patients with postoperative complications showed significantly lower values of CSABoth (median 2266.70 (2239.73–2875.10) mm2 vs. 3060.30 (2749.25–3473.30) mm2, p < 0.001), functional vital capacity, forced expiratory volume at 1 s, and PNI. However, multiple logistic regression analysis identified American Society of Anaesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA PS) I (odds ratio 0.307 (95% confidence interval 0.110–0.852), p = 0.023), ASA PS III (4.033 (1.586–10.254), p = 0.003), CSABoth (0.999 (0.999–1.000), p < 0.001), and postoperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion (1.603 (1.193–2.152), p = 0.002) as risk factors for postoperative complications after PLIF surgery. Conclusions: CSABoth, ASA PS III, and postoperative RBC transfusion might be used as predictors of postoperative complications after PLIF in patients aged >65 years.
Changes in Iron Status Biomarkers with Advancing Age According to Sex and Menopause: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Merlo Francesco , Groothof Dion , Khatami Farnaz , Ahanchi Noushin Sadat , Wehrli Faina , Bakker Stephan J. L. , Eisenga Michele F. , Muka Taulant
Published: August 2023

Background: The risk of chronic diseases increases markedly with age and after menopause. An increase in bodily iron following menopause could contribute to this phenomenon of increased risk of chronic diseases. We aimed to investigate how various iron biomarkers change with advancing age, according to sex and menopausal status. Methods: We enrolled community-dwelling individuals with available information on ferritin, transferrin, iron, hepcidin, and soluble transferrin receptor levels from the Prevention of Renal and Vascular Endstage Disease study. The association of the iron biomarkers with age, sex, and menopausal status was investigated with linear regression models. Results: Mean (SD) age of the 5222 individuals (2680 women [51.3%], among whom 907 [33.8%] were premenopausal, 529 [19.7%] perimenopausal, and 785 [29.3%] postmenopausal), was 53.4 (12.0) years. Iron biomarkers showed a constant increase in women throughout their life course, in some cases at older ages surpassing values in men who, in turn, showed consistently higher levels of iron status compared to women in most age categories. Ferritin, hepcidin, and transferrin saturation levels were 3.03, 2.92, and 1.08-fold (all p < 0.001) higher in postmenopausal women compared to premenopausal. Conclusions: We found that iron accumulates differently depending on sex, age, and menopausal status. An increased iron status was identified in women, especially during and after menopause.
Effect of Data Reduction Techniques on Daily Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity Collected with ActiGraph® in People with COPD
Authors: Rebelo Patrícia , Antão Joana , Brooks Dina , Marques Alda
Published: August 2023

ActiGraph® is a valid, frequently used, accelerometer to quantify moderate to vigorous physical activities (MVPA) in people with COPD. The impact of ActiGraph processing techniques on this population is unknown. This study aimed to explore the effect of data reduction techniques on MVPA in people with COPD. MVPA/day, through ActiGraph GT3X+, was estimated using: Troiano, Freedson 98 and FreedsonVM3 cutoffs, 15-s and 60-s epochs, and normal and low-frequency extension (LFE) filters. Cutoff, epoch, and filter effects were explored with Aligned Rank Transform-ANOVA. Lin’s concordance correlation coefficients and Bland–Altman plots were used to evaluate agreement and bias between different techniques. The analysis included 136 people with COPD (79% male; 68 ± 8 years; FEV1 51 ± 17% predicted). MVPA/day differed according to cutoff, filter, and epoch selection (p-value < 0.001). FreedsonVM3 cutoff, 15-s epochs, and LFE yielded the highest MVPA (45 min/day, 68% of physically active participants). Troiano cutoff, 60-s epochs, and normal filter yielded the lowest MVPA (8 min/day, 20% of physically active participants). Only comparisons between Troiano and Freedson98 cutoffs presented an almost perfect agreement. ActiGraph data reduction techniques affected MVPA/day estimates and their interpretation at the individual and group level. Studies using different processing criteria should not be compared in people with COPD. Future studies with a gold standard are required to ascertain which processing technique produces the most accurate MVPA estimates in COPD. Meanwhile, future trials employing the ActiGraph GT3X+ may consider estimating MVPA based on Freedson VM3 cutofffs, 60-s epochs, and normal filter.
Heterogeneous Hierarchical Self-Assembly Forming Crystalline Nanocellulose–CaCO3 Hybrid Nanoparticle Biocomposites
Authors: Liukko Sirje , Dimic-Misic Katarina , Ge Yanling , Gane Patrick
Published: August 2023

Nanocellulose is increasingly proposed as a sustainable raw material having strong interparticle bonding. However, cellulose alone has limited bending and impact resistance. We newly observe self-assembly between crystalline nanocellulose (CNC) and ultrafine ground chemical-free calcium carbonate nanoparticles (UGCC). The suspension displays an intrinsic gel-like state, and heterogeneous adsorption occurs under the specific conditions where Brownian motion of both species is arrested by application of ultralow shear (0.01 s−1). In contrast, simple static aging of the mixture leads to autoflocculation of each species independently. The heterogeneous adsorption results in compound particle self-assembly leading to multi-level hierarchical structures depending on relative species size and concentration ratio. Fine particles from species 1 adsorb onto the coarser complementary particles of species 2 and vice versa. Depending also on whether CNC or UGCC particles are in excess, the structural assembly occurs primarily through either CNC–CNC hydrogen bonding or CaCO3–CaCO3 autogenous flocculation, respectively. Controlling the hierarchical composite structure bonding in this way, the resulting morphology can express dual or predominantly single either mineralic or cellulosic surface properties. Novel complex hybrid biocomposite materials can therefore be produced having designable compatibility across a broad range of both natural and oil-based polymeric materials. Both CNC and UGCC are exemplified here via commercial products.
Effect of Polynorbornene on Physico-Mechanical, Dynamic, and Dielectric Properties of Vulcanizates Based on Isoprene, α-Methylstyrene-Butadiene, and Nitrile-Butadiene Rubbers for Rail Fasteners Pads
Authors: Egorov Evgeniy N. , Salomatina Evgeniia V. , Vassilyev Vladislav R. , Bannov Alexander G. , Sandalov Sergey I.
Published: August 2023

The article studies the effect of polynorbornene (PNB) in the composition of PNB with Norman 747 LV plasticizer (RC) on the curing characteristics of the rubber compound and the physico-mechanical, dynamic, dielectric properties and the thermal behavior of vulcanizates based on a combination of isoprene, α-methylstyrene-butadiene, and nitrile-butadiene rubbers. It is shown that vulcanizates containing PNB in the composition of the RC had lower conditional tensile strength, hardness, and tear resistance compared to the vulcanizate of the base version of the rubber compound. Studies of dynamic mechanical analysis indicate that an increase in the content of RC, and hence PNB, in the rubber compound contributes to an increase in the mechanical loss factor (tanδ) and a decrease in the storage modulus of vulcanizates. It was found that vulcanized rubber, containing 24.0 parts per hundred of rubber (phr) (8.98 wt. %) PNB as part of the RC, is characterized by stable physico-mechanical, improved vibration-absorbing properties, as well as increased dielectric parameters. This rubber compound can be used as a base for rail fasteners for railroad tracks.
Measuring Spatial Abilities in Children: A Comparison of Mental-Rotation and Perspective-Taking Tasks
Authors: Frick Andrea , Pichelmann Stefan
Published: August 2023

Mental rotation (MR) and perspective taking (PT) are important spatial abilities and predictive of performance in other cognitive domains. Yet, age-appropriate measures to assess these spatial abilities in children are still rare. This study examined psychometric properties of four MR tasks in 6- to 9-year-olds (N = 96). Two were developed specifically for children and two were based on established assessments for adults; one of each was a computerized and one was a paper–pencil task. Furthermore, spatial perspective taking (PT)—a different but closely related ability—was assessed to determine discriminant validity. Factor analyses showed that all MR tasks loaded on one single factor, with PT only loading weakly on the same factor, suggesting high construct validity. The computerized task for adults showed moderate factor loadings, constituted its own (but correlated) factor when a two-factor solution was forced, and showed the lowest reliabilities, suggesting that it was very difficult for children. On average, the new MR tasks had good to excellent reliabilities, differentiated well between age groups, and proved to be well-suited to assess MR in this age range. The PT task also showed good reliability and a steep developmental progression. Relations to verbal skills, gaming experience, and TV consumption are discussed.
A Simplified Experimental Method to Estimate the Transport of Non-Buoyant Plastic Particles Due to Waves by 2D Image Processing
Authors: Passalacqua Giovanni , Iuppa Claudio , Faraci Carla
Published: August 2023

Plastic is one of the most widely used materials. It is expected that there will be about 12 billion tons of debris dispersed into the environment by 2050. This, combined with marine littering, pollution and climate change will threaten our ability to sustainably use oceans, seas and coasts. In this regard, it is important to understand transport mechanisms and predict hotspots of plastic pollution. Physical models are a valid support to achieve such a goal. In this regard, it is necessary to adopt specific techniques which allow the movement of plastic to be monitored. Considering the relatively high size of plastic particles that could be used during experimental campaigns, new approaches based on image processing could be implemented. This study presents a simplified method to estimate the transport of particle debris under sea waves by 2D image processing, avoiding any disturbance of the dynamic field. The proposed method, based on the blob analysis, was implemented and calibrated within the wave flume of the Hydraulics Laboratory at the University of Messina. After a calibration process, the method was used to study the behaviour of the plastic debris under several hydrodynamic conditions. The results obtained in terms of displacement and velocity of the analysed sample showed a great reliability of the used methodology.
Influence of Van Gent Parameters on the Overtopping Discharge of a Rubble Mound Breakwater
Authors: Castiglione Federico , Stagnitti Martina , Musumeci Rosaria Ester , Foti Enrico
Published: August 2023

The choice of the values of the friction parameters may strongly influence the numerical modeling of the interaction between waves and porous media. Here, an assessment of such an influence is carried out using the OpenFOAM solver IhFoamV1 to simulate the response of the Catania harbor breakwater under extreme wave attack. The numerical model was validated by comparison with an experimental dataset, and a sensitivity analysis of the overtopping discharge estimate to van Gent parameter β was carried out testing values suggested by previous studies. A discussion on the importance of a careful estimate of such a parameter when dealing with the numerical modeling of porous coastal structures is presented. Indeed, variations in the non-dimensional overtopping discharge higher than 150% were observed as a consequence of a small variation (10–20%) in the absolute value of β.
Spatiotemporal Nutrient Patterns, Stoichiometry, and Eutrophication Assessment in the Tieshan Bay Coastal Water, China
Authors: Zhang Peng , Wu Siying , Xu Menghan , Luo Xiaojun , Peng Xi , Ren Chaoxing , Zhang Jibiao
Published: August 2023

Land-source inputs into coastal water have increased remarkably in recent years, resulting in the deterioration of water quality, eutrophication, and algae blooms. However, we have limited understanding of spatiotemporal nutrient patterns, stoichiometry, and eutrophication assessment in Tieshan Bay coastal water at present. To investigate the rapid development of the coastal areas in Tieshan Bay in the South China Sea, nutrients and other physicochemical parameters were observed in Tieshan Bay during the normal season (April), wet season (July), and dry season (October) in 2021. The results showed that the average concentrations of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP), and chemical oxygen demand (COD) in Tieshan Bay are 0.071 ± 0.115 mg/L, 0.008 ± 0.013 mg/L, and 0.71 ± 0.219 mg/L, respectively. DIN/DIP ratio ranges from 9.1–69.3, with an average value of 19.9 ± 19.2, which exceeds the Redfield value, behaving P limitations. In addition, the mean eutrophication index (EI) was low in Tieshan Bay, with an average value of 0.5 ± 1.5. Moreover, the hotspot coastal water with high DIN, DIP, and COD concentrations was located in the upper half of Tieshan Bay in all seasons. In addition to the DIN, DIP, and COD contributions to EI, the average contribution rates of DIN, DIP, and COD are 26.6%, 8.8%, and 64.6%, respectively, which leads to the largest contribution of COD to EI. Furthermore, the average comprehensive index (CI) of organic pollution in Tieshan Bay surface seawater ranged from −1 to 5.6. The seawater near Hepu in S8 station has organic pollution in wet and dry seasons, and Tieshan Bay’s middle region also has slight organic pollution. Additionally, the DIN, DIP, and COD had significant relationships with salinity (p < 0.05), suggesting that coastal water quality is affected by land-based sources input. To achieve the seawater quality target and mitigate regional eutrophication, it is critical to implement land-based source management across the river-bay-coastal water continuum.
The Influence of Cardiac Arrest Floor-Level Location within a Building on Survival Outcomes
Authors: Ahn Chiwon , Oh Young Taeck , Park Yeonkyung , Kim Jae Hwan , Hwang Sojune , Won Moonho
Published: August 2023

This nationwide, population-based observational study investigated the association between the floor level of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) incidence and survival outcomes in South Korea, notable for its significant high-rise apartment living. Data were collected retrospectively from OHCA patients through the South Korean Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Surveillance database. The study incorporated cases that included the OHCA’s building floor information. The primary outcome assessed was survival to discharge, analyzed using multivariate logistic regression, and the secondary outcome was favorable neurological outcome. Among 36,977 patients, a total of 29,729 patients were included, and 1680 patients were survivors. A weak yet significant correlation between floor level and hospital arrival time was observed. Interestingly, elevated survival rates were noted among patients from higher floors despite extended emergency medical service response times. Multivariate analysis identified age, witnessed OHCA, shockable rhythm, and prehospital return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) as primary determinants of survival to discharge. The floor level’s impact on survival was less substantial than anticipated, suggesting residential emergency response enhancements should prioritize witness interventions, shockable rhythm management, and prehospital ROSC rates. The study underscores the importance of bespoke emergency response strategies in high-rise buildings, particularly in urban areas, and the potential of digital technologies to optimize response times and survival outcomes.
Building Trust and Enhancing Tax Compliance: The Role of Authoritarian Procedures and Respectful Treatment in Indonesia
Authors: Prastiwi Dewi , Diamastuti Erlina
Published: August 2023

This study delves into the impact of tax collection behavior on tax compliance among individual taxpayers in Indonesia, with a specific focus on two distinct behaviors: respectful treatment and authoritarian procedures. The research employs a cross-sectional survey method, targeting the population of individual taxpayers registered at the Regional Tax Office of East Java I. The sample size of 400 was selected through random sampling. Attitudes, opinions, and perceptions regarding tax collection behavior were measured using a Likert scale. Tax officials’ conduct was categorized as either respectful treatment or authoritarian procedures. The research employed Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with the Partial Least Squares (PLS) software to assess the outer model. Hypothesis testing was conducted to scrutinize the relationship between tax collection behavior and taxpayer compliance. The study’s results indicate that respectful treatment positively influences compliance, whereas the utilization of authoritarian procedures leads to an increase in tax non-compliance. Notably, trust emerged as a mediating factor within this relationship. The findings underscore the crucial role of tax officials in cultivating trust with taxpayers by demonstrating respect, upholding integrity, and executing their responsibilities transparently and equitably. By fostering an environment of trust, tax compliance can be bolstered, fostering a collaborative approach that aids taxpayers in fulfilling their tax obligations.
Stress of Prematurity in the Experience of the COVID-19 Pandemic—Current State of Knowledge
Authors: Wagner Emilia , Bień Katarzyna , Łomża Aleksandra , Grunwald Arkadiusz , Kimber-Trojnar Żaneta , Libera Aneta , Leszczyńska-Gorzelak Bożena
Published: August 2023

Stress is a process that triggers various physiological, hormonal and psychological mechanisms in response to a threat, which significantly affects the health of an individual. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced a lot of social changes that required constant adaptation to unfavorable conditions. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of stress related to this pandemic on pregnant women, mothers of premature infants and their families, and on obstetric complications, particularly preterm birth. A comprehensive literature review was performed using electronic databases such as Pubmed, Science Direct and Google Scholar. Keywords such as: “prematurity”; “pregnancy”; “stress”; “COVID-19” and various combinations of the above were used. Maternal stress and anxiety increase the levels of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in the placenta, which in turn affects the incidence of preterm birth and many other related maternal and neonatal complications. In addition, it was found that SARS-CoV-2 infection may increase the risk of this phenomenon. The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected preterm birth rates and the mental health of mothers of preterm infants, exacerbating their negative experience of having a premature baby. More research is needed to demonstrate the long-term effects of COVID-19 stress on prematurity.
Diagnosis and Characterization of Ditylenchus destructor Isolated from Mazus japonicus in China
Authors: Song Wenwen , Dai Mingming , Shi Qianqian , Liang Chen , Duan Fangmeng , Zhao Honghai
Published: August 2023

The potato rot nematode (Ditylenchus destructor) is one of the most destructive pests in the production of tuber crops, resulting in severely decreased yields and inferior product quality. In 2021, a great number of nematodes were detected in the roots of Mazus japonicus, a weed that is harmful to crop growth, in Qingdao, Shandong Province, China. The present study was undertaken to characterize and identify the nematodes isolated from M. japonicus through morphological identification and molecular approaches. Their morphological characteristics were highly consistent with the descriptions of D. destructor Thorne, 1945. The nematodes collected from M. japonicus were identified as D. destructor haplotype B using D1/D2 and sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) primers. PCR-ITS-RFLP analysis was conducted to monitor intraspecific variations. In addition, the phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) demonstrated that this D. destructor population was clustered in haplotype B, supported by a 100% bootstrap value. Another assay, in which M. japonicus was inoculated with a mixture of the life stages of D. destructor, was performed. This assay showed that M. japonicus exhibited a high susceptibility to D. destructor in pots. This is the first record of D. destructor parasitizing M. japonicus in China, and it is of great importance because M. japonicus could be a potential reservoir for D. destructor in the field.
Synthesis of a New α-Azidomethyl Styrene from Safrole via a Dearomative Rearrangement
Authors: Isbel Stephen R. , Bugarin Alejandro
Published: August 2023

There is a growing interest in developing more efficient synthetic alternatives for the synthesis of nitrogen-containing allylic compounds. This article presents a straightforward two-step protocol to produce 5-(3-azidoprop-1-en-2-yl)benzo[d][1,3]dioxole 4 from the natural product safrole. The method yielded the expected α-azidomethyl styrene 4, in good yield, via a dearomative rearrangement.
A Review on the Analysis of Thermal and Thermodynamic Aspects of Grain Refinement of Aluminum-Silicon-Based Alloys
Authors: Samuel Ehab , Samuel Agnes M. , Songmene Victor , Samuel Fawzy H.
Published: August 2023

The present analysis addresses the solidification and thermodynamic parameters involved during the solidification of aluminum (Al)-based alloys as presented in the literature using different systems viz., binary aluminum-boron (Al-B) and aluminum-titanium (Al-Ti) systems, ternary aluminum-titanium-boron (Al-Ti-B) and aluminum-titanium-carbon (Al-Ti-C) systems, as well as taking into consideration the silicon-titanium-aluminide (Si-TiAl3) interaction in Al-based alloys containing Si. The analysis is supported by recent metallographic evidence obtained by the authors on A356.2 alloys. The sections on thermodynamic aspects cover the different models proposed concerning nucleation and growth on a newly formed Al grain. The value of the recalescence parameter reduces gradually with the increase in the Ti added. At a level of 0.20 wt%, this parameter becomes zero. If the concentration of grain refiner exceeds a certain amount, the grain size becomes minimal. Another parameter to be considered is the interaction between the grain refiner and traces of other metals in the base alloy. For example, Al-4%B can react with traces of Ti that may exist in the base alloy, leading to the reaction between boron and titanium to form titanium diboride (TiB2). Grain refinement is achieved primarily with TiB2 rather than aluminum diboride (AlB2), or both, depending on the Ti content in the given alloy.
Quantifying Decay Due to Wet Atmospheric Deposition on Basalt
Authors: Urbina Leonor Luis Miguel , Sosa Echeverría Rodolfo , Alarcón Jiménez Ana Luisa , Solano Murillo Mónica , Velasco Herrera Graciela , Perez Nora A.
Published: August 2023

The study of building materials is important for a better conservation of built heritage. Worldwide, volcanic stones (including basalt, andesite and dacite) are among the least studied building materials. In this research, the decay of a red basalt due to wet atmospheric deposition was studied. Red basalt was exposed to artificial rain solutions, prepared from rain samples collected weekly from 2014–2019. In this research, the decay of stone-built heritage was indirectly studied emulating wet atmospheric accelerated weathering under three different volume weighted mean (VWM) compositions: global, acid and no-acid categories. Lixiviates were analyzed to better understand the deterioration mechanisms taking place inside the material. Decay was quantified as mass difference, water absorption capacity (WAC) and open porosity (OP) changes. Results show that the methodology used is suitable to research the decay of built heritage. The studied basalt is indeed prone to decay by wet atmospheric deposition. The main decay mechanisms are the washing of insoluble compounds, dissolution of minerals, salt crystallization and cation exchange. WAC and OP showed promising results of their appropriateness as monitoring variables of decay in situ. Acid conditions produce the most severe decay, but Ph effect is not as important as precipitation volume. Non-linear equations relating volume of precipitation with mass difference in red basalt are presented.
Effect of Mo2C Addition on the Tribological Behavior of Ti(C,N)-Based Cermets
Authors: Qiu Hao , Li Xiaoqiang , Pan Cunliang , Fan Jiafeng
Published: August 2023

Due to the excellent properties of Ti (C,N)-based ceramics, such as high hardness, excellent wear resistance, exceptional thermal deformation resistance, and sound chemical stability, they have been widely used in cutting tools or molds. Thus, revealing their tribological behavior against hard materials is of great significance. Some studies have reported the tribological behavior of Ti(C,N)-based cermets and hard cermets, but so far, the effects of Mo2C additions on the frictional properties of Ti(C,N)-based cermets are still unclear. In this study, Ti(C,N)-10WC-1Cr3C2-5Co-10Ni-x Mo2C cermets (x = 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 wt.%) were sintered using a vacuum hot-pressing furnace. Furthermore, the core–rim morphologies of the sintered samples were observed in SEM images. Then, the wear resistance of the cermets was studied against a Si3N4 ball at a 50 N load using the fretting wear test. Finally, the wear mechanism was characterized using a combination of SEM, EDS and XPS. The experimental results indicated that the wear mechanisms of the cermets were mainly abrasive wear, adhesive wear, and the formation of an oxide film. As the content of Mo2C increased from 4 wt.% to 12 wt.%, the friction coefficient and wear volume had a variation law of first decreasing and then decreasing, and reached minimum values at 6 wt.% and 12 wt.%, and the lowest friction coefficient and wear rate were 0.49 and 0.9 × 10−6 mm3/Nm, respectively. The 6 wt.% Mo2C greatly improved the hardness and fracture toughness of the cermet, while the 12 wt.% Mo2C promoted the formation of an oxide film and protected the friction surface. The cermet with 6 wt.% Mo2C is recommended because it has comprehensive advantages in terms of its mechanical properties, tribological properties, and cost.
The Effect of Mechanical Pretreatment on the Electrochemical Characteristics of PEO Coatings Prepared on Magnesium Alloy AZ80
Authors: Sovík Ján , Kajánek Daniel , Pastorek Filip , Štrbák Milan , Florková Zuzana , Jambor Michal , Hadzima Branislav
Published: August 2023

The main objective of this article is to provide new information on the effects of mechanical pretreatment of AZ80 magnesium alloy ground with SiC emery papers of different grain sizes on the plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) process and corrosion properties of AZ80 in 0.1 M NaCl solution. Then, the roughness of the coated samples was measured by confocal microscopy. The corrosion properties of the ground and coated surfaces were determined by potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) within 1 h of exposure, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was performed during 168 h of exposure at laboratory temperature. Consequently, the obtained results of the PDP measurements were evaluated by the Tafel analysis and the EIS evaluation was performed by the equivalent circuit analysis through Nyquist diagrams. The morphology and structure of PEO coatings were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) through the secondary imaging technology, and the presence of certain elements in PEO coatings was analyzed by EDS analysis.
Framed Curve Families Induced by Real and Complex Coupled Dispersionless-Type Equations
Authors: Popović Nikola , Eren Kemal , Savić Ana , Ersoy Soley
Published: August 2023

In this study, we investigate coupled real and complex dispersionless equations for curve families, even if they have singular points. Even though the connections with the differential equations and regular curves were considered in various ways in the past, since each curve does not need to be regular, we establish the connections for framed base curves, which generalize regular curves with linear independent conditions. Also, we give the Lax pairs of the real and complex coupled dispersionless equations from the motions of any framed curve. These give us significant conditions based on the framed curvatures and associated curvatures of the framed curves for integrability since it is well known that the Lax pair provides the integrability of differential equations.
ProMatch: Semi-Supervised Learning with Prototype Consistency
Authors: Cheng Ziyu , Wang Xianmin , Li Jing
Published: August 2023

Recent state-of-the-art semi-supervised learning (SSL) methods have made significant advancements by combining consistency-regularization and pseudo-labeling in a joint learning paradigm. The core concept of these methods is to identify consistency targets (pseudo-labels) by selecting predicted distributions with high confidence from weakly augmented unlabeled samples. However, they often face the problem of erroneous high confident pseudo-labels, which can lead to noisy training. This issue arises due to two main reasons: (1) when the model is poorly calibrated, the prediction of a single sample may be overconfident and incorrect, and (2) propagating pseudo-labels from unlabeled samples can result in error accumulation due to the margin between the pseudo-label and the ground-truth label. To address this problem, we propose a novel consistency criterion called Prototype Consistency (PC) to improve the reliability of pseudo-labeling by leveraging the prototype similarities between labeled and unlabeled samples. First, we instantiate semantic-prototypes (centers of embeddings) and prediction-prototypes (centers of predictions) for each category using memory buffers that store the features of labeled examples. Second, for a given unlabeled sample, we determine the most similar semantic-prototype and prediction-prototype by assessing the similarities between the features of the unlabeled sample and the prototypes of the labeled samples. Finally, instead of using the prediction of the unlabeled sample as the pseudo-label, we select the most similar prediction-prototype as the consistency target, as long as the predicted category of the most similar prediction-prototype, the ground-truth category of the most similar semantic-prototype, and the ground-truth category of the most similar prediction-prototype are equivalent. By combining the PC approach with the techniques developed by the MixMatch family, our proposed ProMatch framework demonstrates significant performance improvements compared to previous algorithms on datasets such as CIFAR-10, CIFAR-100, SVHN, and Mini-ImageNet.
Numerical Investigation of Key Structural Parameters for Middle-Buried Rubber Waterstops
Authors: Wu Yimin , Wu Haiping , Gong Chenjie , Huang Le
Published: August 2023

Leakage at the lining joints of mountain tunnels is frequent. According to the waterproofing mechanism of waterstops, it is known that the deformation of middle-buried rubber waterstops under stress in typical operating conditions determines their waterproof performance. In addition to the deformation of the adjacent lining concrete, the structural parameters of waterstops are the main factors influencing their deformation under stress. This study combines the common structural components of middle-buried waterstops and considers the bond strength between waterstops and the concrete. A localized numerical model of the lining joint is constructed to explore the impact of geometric parameters, such as hole size, number and position of waterstop ribs, and length and thickness of wing plates on the stress-induced deformation and waterproof performance of the waterstops. The effective mechanisms of different components are revealed, and recommended structural parameters are proposed to further optimize the design of middle-buried rubber waterstops.
Finite Element Simulation and Experimental Study of U-Bending Forming of High-Strength Mg-Gd-Y-Zn-Zr Alloy
Authors: Wang Hao , Huang Anqi , Xing Shiping , Zhang Chunxiang , Luo Junting
Published: August 2023

In this study, the constitutive equation of the high-strength Mg-Gd-Y-Zn-Zr alloy sheet was established by tensile tests at different temperatures and different tensile rates. The U-shape bending forming process of the sheet was simulated under different process conditions by the DEFORM software. The variation rules of the stress field, strain field and free bending force of the formed parts were analyzed, and the accuracy of the finite element simulation was verified by the U-shaped bending test. Studies have shown that the equivalent stress, equivalent strain and free bending force decreased with the increase in forming temperature. With an increase in the stamping speed, the equivalent stress and free bending force increased, while the equivalent strain did not change significantly. Notably, the maximum difference in the free bending force between the test and simulation was less than 10%. The results of this study can provide guidance for the stamping forming of high-strength Mg-Gd-Y-Zn-Zr alloy sheets.
The Effects of Hospitalisation on the Serum Metabolome in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Hensen Tim , Fässler Daniel , O’Mahony Liam , Albrich Werner C. , Barda Beatrice , Garzoni Christian , Kleger Gian-Reto , Pietsch Urs , Suh Noémie , Hertel Johannes , Thiele Ines
Published: August 2023

COVID-19, a systemic multi-organ disease resulting from infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is known to result in a wide array of disease outcomes, ranging from asymptomatic to fatal. Despite persistent progress, there is a continued need for more accurate determinants of disease outcomes, including post-acute symptoms after COVID-19. In this study, we characterised the serum metabolomic changes due to hospitalisation and COVID-19 disease progression by mapping the serum metabolomic trajectories of 71 newly hospitalised moderate and severe patients in their first week after hospitalisation. These 71 patients were spread out over three hospitals in Switzerland, enabling us to meta-analyse the metabolomic trajectories and filter consistently changing metabolites. Additionally, we investigated differential metabolite–metabolite trajectories between fatal, severe, and moderate disease outcomes to find prognostic markers of disease severity. We found drastic changes in serum metabolite concentrations for 448 out of the 901 metabolites. These results included markers of hospitalisation, such as environmental exposures, dietary changes, and altered drug administration, but also possible markers of physiological functioning, including carboxyethyl-GABA and fibrinopeptides, which might be prognostic for worsening lung injury. Possible markers of disease progression included altered urea cycle metabolites and metabolites of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, indicating a SARS-CoV-2-induced reprogramming of the host metabolism. Glycerophosphorylcholine was identified as a potential marker of disease severity. Taken together, this study describes the metabolome-wide changes due to hospitalisation and COVID-19 disease progression. Moreover, we propose a wide range of novel potential biomarkers for monitoring COVID-19 disease course, both dependent and independent of the severity.