bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spotlight on the Mechanism of Action of Semaglutide
Authors: Papakonstantinou Ilias , Tsioufis Konstantinos , Katsi Vasiliki
Published: December 2024

Initially intended to control blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, semaglutide, a potent glucagon-like peptide 1 analogue, has been established as an effective weight loss treatment by controlling appetite. Integrating the latest clinical trials, semaglutide in patients with or without diabetes presents significant therapeutic efficacy in ameliorating cardiometabolic risk factors and physical functioning, independent of body weight reduction. Semaglutide may modulate adipose tissue browning, which enhances human metabolism and exhibits possible benefits in skeletal muscle degeneration, accelerated by obesity and ageing. This may be attributed to anti-inflammatory, mitochondrial biogenesis, antioxidant and autophagy-regulating effects. However, most of the supporting evidence on the mechanistic actions of semaglutide is preclinical, demonstrated in rodents and not actually confirmed in humans, therefore warranting caution in the interpretation. This article aims to explore potential innovative molecular mechanisms of semaglutide action in restoring the balance of several interlinking aspects of metabolism, pointing to distinct functions in inflammation and oxidative stress in insulin-sensitive musculoskeletal and adipose tissues. Moreover, possible applications in protection from infections and anti-aging properties are discussed. Semaglutide enhancement of the core molecular mechanisms involved in the progress of obesity and diabetes, although mostly preclinical, may provide a framework for future research applications in human diseases overall.
Impact of CPAP Therapy on Cognition and Fatigue in Patients with Moderate to Severe Sleep Apnea: A Longitudinal Observational Study
Authors: Benkirane Oumaïma , Mairesse Olivier , Peigneux Philippe
Published: December 2024

Continued solicitation of cognitive resources eventually leads to cognitive fatigue (CF), i.e., a decrease in cognitive efficiency that develops during sustained cognitive demands in conditions of constrained processing time, independently of sleepiness. The expression of CF and its impact on cognition are partly contingent upon prior sleep quality and its restorative effects. Sleep in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may be largely restored through the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment, contributing to a gradual improvement in sleep quality. In this longitudinal observational study, we investigated immediate and longer-term behavioral effects of CPAP treatment on cognitive functioning, evaluating outcomes after the initiation of treatment, and at three and six months, in compliant CPAP-treated OSA patients. Results indicate that CPAP therapy significantly enhances subjective sleep quality and cognitive functions, including episodic memory, inhibition, sustained attention, working memory, and executive control. Noticeable performance improvements were observed in CF-inducing tasks, particularly after six months of CPAP use. Participants also reported substantial gains in quality of life, reduced daytime sleepiness, and improved mood. These results confirm that CPAP therapy not only alleviates immediate physiological disturbances associated with OSA, but also supports cognitive recovery and enhanced overall daily functioning.
Effectiveness of Eco-Engineering Structures in Salt Marsh Restoration: Using Benthic Macroinvertebrates as Indicators of Success
Authors: Gonçalves Carlos , Verdelhos Tiago , Caçador Isabel , Veríssimo Helena
Published: December 2024

Salt marshes are vital coastal ecosystems, increasingly threatened by rising sea level and human pressures, that provide essential services, including coastal protection, habitat support, and carbon sequestration. This study examines the effectiveness of different eco-engineering structures in restoring salt marshes in the Mondego Estuary, Portugal, by assessing their impacts on benthic macroinvertebrate communities as bioindicators of ecosystem health. The experimental design included five experimental cells: wood palisade (Fence), geotextile fabric (Geotextile), geotextile bags filled with sand (Bags), a cell with autochthonous vegetation (Plants), and a Control cell with bare soil. Monitoring took place from 2019 to 2021, with both before and after intervention sampling to evaluate species composition, biomass, and density. Key ecological indices, such as the AZTI’s Marine Biotic Index (AMBI), Shannon-Wiener Diversity, and Pielou’s Evenness, were calculated alongside measurements of environmental variables. The results indicated minimal impacts on biodiversity, with observed variations primarily attributed to seasonal dynamics. While the wood palisade enhanced species richness and density, geotextile provided better community stability. The findings emphasize the importance of long-term monitoring, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable use of materials to optimize restoration efforts and better inform coastal management strategies in the face of climate change.
Thermoelastic Vibration of Nickel Film Irradiated by Femtosecond Laser: Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Zhao Wanrong , Gu Yucheng , Yang Zenan , Zhang Zhen
Published: December 2024

A detailed understanding of the physical essence of the interaction between a femtosecond laser and its target material remains an important and challenging goal. In this paper, the thermoelastic vibration behavior of nickel films irradiated by a femtosecond laser is studied by a molecular dynamics method combined with a two-temperature model. The model fully defines the spatial distribution of laser energy, the photoelectron coupling, and the electron-lattice coupling, and elucidates the temperature and stress evolution within the nickel film under femtosecond laser irradiation. Furthermore, the whole process and the mechanism of thermoelastic vibration is revealed at the atomic level. The thermoelastic vibration is divided into two stages, including continuous expansion during the process of energy relaxation and periodic expansion and contraction after reaching thermal equilibrium. The elastic oscillation of thin films is driven by periodic changes in energy, including the energy of atomic thermal motion and collective atomic motion. The effect of pulse fluence on thermoelastic vibration is also discussed in detail to provide reasonable suggestions for limiting this effect. This study provides the theoretical foundation and a feasible method for a deeper understanding of the interaction mechanisms between femtosecond lasers and materials.
Population Viability of an Endangered Population of Greater Gliders (Petauroides volans) and Management Implications
Authors: Mulley Brooke , Gracanin Ana , Mikac Katarina M.
Published: December 2024

The population of the endangered southern greater glider (Petauroides volans) is rapidly declining across coastal lowlands in New South Wales, Australia. Here, we focus on a typical coastal lowland glider population in Seven Mile Beach National Park, New South Wales, that is declining primarily due to habitat fragmentation. This study aimed to assess the population’s status and viability in order to guide conservation efforts. Using the double-observer distance sampling method, we estimated the population size to be 347 gliders, with a density of 0.46 gliders/ha. Population viability analysis revealed a high extinction risk, with only a 1% chance of survival over the next 50 years. Fire was identified as the primary threat, followed by a low effective population size and inbreeding. The most effective conservation strategy involved genetic reinforcement through possible translocation and the installation of up to 50 nest boxes to improve habitat (hollow) availability.
Coping with Stress During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Resilience and Mental Health Among Latino Day Laborers
Authors: Ayieko Sylvia A. , Atkinson John , Llamas Anna , Fernandez-Esquer Maria E.
Published: December 2024

Resilience, the successful process of growth and adaptation in the face of adversity, stress, or trauma, is crucial for optimal well-being. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Latino day laborers (LDLs) faced multiple stressors, making them vulnerable to poor mental health outcomes. Using a cross-sectional study design, we examine the association between situational stressors, mental health, and resilience among LDLs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data included sociodemographic information and measures of situational stressors, mental health (depression, anxiety, and stress), and resilience. Positive and negative resilience subscales were analyzed separately due to a high correlation. A total of 300 male participants completed the surveys, with a mean age of 45.1 years. Almost half had never been married (48%) and had completed nearly eight years of school. The results indicated no significant associations between stressors, positive resilience, and mental health outcomes (B = 0.023, NS) but a significant association between negative resilience, mental health outcomes, and some stressors, such as lack of money (B = 0.103; p < 0.05). The implications of this study include the need to further investigate the use of negatively worded items and how resilience is demonstrated among other vulnerable populations or cultural groups.
Teachers’ Perspectives on Internet Use: Towards the Digital Inclusion of Students with Intellectual Disability or Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Chiner Esther , Gómez-Puerta Marcos , Manosalba Consuelo , Friz-Carrillo Miguel
Published: December 2024

People with disabilities have difficulties in digital inclusion, although it is considered essential for participation in the knowledge-based society. This form of inclusion seeks to ensure equal opportunities in the use of digital technologies and their active participation as citizens in the virtual world. The educational environment is key to this digital inclusion, but teacher attitudes and training influence its effectiveness. The aim of this study was to explore, through a descriptive cross-sectional study, Chilean teachers’ perspectives on the safety, benefits, and risks of the Internet for students with intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorder. A questionnaire was administered to 211 pre-service and in-service teachers. The results highlight the perception of the Internet as an unsafe environment for these students, where risks prevail over potential benefits. These findings underline the need to improve both initial and ongoing teacher training in digital skills and risk mediation for these students in order to ensure the digital participation of all students.
Self-Reported Oral Hygiene Performance of Patients in Albania: A Questionnaire-Based Survey
Authors: Zeza Blerina , Osmani Blerina , Cenameri Erdita , Emir Busra
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Oral hygiene is a key factor for dental and periodontal diseases and the prognosis of any treatment to restore their consequences. The present survey aimed to evaluate how well informed patients in Albania are on oral hygiene, given the scarce evidence on this topic. Methods: This survey was performed using a Google Forms questionnaire on oral hygiene habits, type and technique of instruments used, and frequency of dental recall visits. Results: A total of 1006 questionnaires were filled in a one-month time period (January 2020) from a population of 75.2% females and 24.8% males, 32.7 ± 11.3 years of age, from whom 94.6% reported a lack of systemic diseases and 80% were non-smokers. All of the population brushed their teeth at least once daily. The most used type of toothbrush was a manual one (91.1%) with medium-bristle hardness in 71% of cases. The most prevalent way of using the toothbrush was through circular movements (36.7%) with a duration of 2–3 min in 72% of the population. Only 77.1% of the population used interdental instruments, mainly interdental floss. Conclusions: Within the limits of this study, it could be concluded that the present population seemed to be mostly appropriately informed, but the information needs further revision and promotion by dentists.
Remote Wind Turbine Inspections: Exploring the Potential of Multimodal Drones
Authors: Omara Ahmed , Nasser Adel , Alsayed Ahmad , Nabawy Mostafa R. A.
Published: December 2024

With the ever-increasing demand for harvesting wind energy, the inspection of its associated infrastructures, particularly turbines, has become essential to ensure continued and sustainable operations. With these inspections being hazardous to human operators, time-consuming and expensive, the door was opened for drone solutions to offer a more effective alternative. However, drones also come with their own issues, such as communication, maintenance and the personnel needed to operate them. A multimodal approach to this problem thus has the potential to provide a combined solution where a single platform can perform all inspection operations required for wind turbine structures. This paper reviews the current approaches and technologies used in wind turbine inspections together with a multitude of multimodal designs that are surveyed to assess their potential for this application. Rotor-based designs demonstrate simpler and more efficient means to conduct such missions, whereas bio-inspired designs allow greater flexibility and more accurate locomotion. Whilst each of these design categories comes with different trade-offs, both should be considered for an effective hybrid design to create a more optimal system. Finally, the use of sensor fusion within techniques such as GPS and LiDAR SLAM enables high navigation performances while simultaneously utilising these sensors to conduct the inspection tasks.
Log-Based Analysis of Creativity in the Context of Computational Thinking
Authors: Israel-Fishelson Rotem , Hershkovitz Arnon
Published: December 2024

Computational thinking (CT) and creativity have been recognized as crucial skills for adapting to the current digital era. However, despite being extensively studied over the last few decades, research on their associations has only emerged recently. We report on a study that examined how creativity is manifested in the context of CT, specifically while solving computational problems in an online game-based learning environment for early programming. We took a learning analytics log-based approach to evaluate measures of CT and creativity. We developed a Python algorithm to automatically analyze the logged solutions across four creativity measures. This allowed for an objective, quantitative, multidimensional analysis of 52,438 submissions of N = 111 primary and secondary school students over 85 tasks. We examined the relationships between measures of creativity, game level, and CT, utilized exploratory analysis to investigate how measures of creativity differ across age groups, and explored how these measures characterize students. Our findings suggest that creativity does not decrease throughout the game despite the increased difficulty and its mechanics that penalize creative solutions. We also point out how various dimensions of creativity play different roles in learning. These findings suggest that educators should foster intrinsic motivation and encourage students to explore multiple solution paths to enhance both CT and creativity skills. Researchers should keep investigating mechanisms to assess and enhance creativity in learning environments and explore the influence of personal and contextual factors.
Underwater Communication Systems and Their Impact on Aquatic Life—A Survey
Authors: Domingos Feliciano Pedro Francisco , Lotfi Ahmad , Ihianle Isibor Kennedy , Kaiwartya Omprakash , Machado Pedro
Published: December 2024

Approximately 75% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, and 78% of the global animal kingdom resides in marine environments. Furthermore, algae and microalgae in marine ecosystems contribute up to 75% of the planet’s oxygen supply, underscoring the critical need for conservation efforts. This review systematically evaluates the impact of underwater communication systems on aquatic ecosystems, focusing on both wired and wireless technologies. It highlights the applications of these systems in Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT), Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks (UWSNs), remote sensing, bathymetry, and tsunami warning systems, as well as their role in reducing the ecological footprint of human activities in aquatic environments. The main contributions of this work include: a benchmark of various underwater communication systems, comparing their advantages and limitations; an in-depth analysis of the adverse effects of anthropogenic emissions associated with communication systems on marine life; and a discussion of the potential for underwater communication technologies, such as remote sensing and passive monitoring, to aid in the preservation of biodiversity and the protection of fragile ecosystems.
Review of Reforming Processes for the Production of Green Hydrogen from Landfill Gas
Authors: Singh Dhruv , Sirini Piero , Lombardi Lidia
Published: December 2024

The growing challenges of climate change, the depletion of fossil fuel reserves, and the urgent need for carbon-neutral energy solutions have intensified the focus on renewable energy. In this perspective, the generation of green hydrogen from renewable sources like biogas/landfill gas (LFG) offers an intriguing option, providing the dual benefits of a sustainable hydrogen supply and enhanced waste management through energy innovation and valorization. Thus, this review explores the production of green hydrogen from biogas/LFG through four conventional reforming processes, specifically dry methane reforming (DMR), steam methane reforming (SMR), partial oxidation reforming (POX), and autothermal reforming (ATR), focusing on their mechanisms, operating parameters, and the role of catalysts in hydrogen production. This review further delves into both the environmental aspects, specifically GWP (CO2 eq·kg−1 H2) emissions, and the economic aspects of these processes, examining their efficiency and impact. Additionally, this review also explores hydrogen purification in biogas/LFG reforming and its integration into the CO2 capture, utilization, and storage roadmap for net-negative emissions. Lastly, this review highlights future research directions, focusing on improving SMR and DMR biogas/LFG reforming technologies through simulation and modeling to enhance hydrogen production efficiency, thereby advancing understanding and informing future research and policy initiatives for sustainable energy solutions.
Effects of Nitrogen Addition and Precipitation Reduction on Microbial and Soil Nutrient Imbalances in a Temperate Forest Ecosystem
Authors: Xiao Yutong , Dong Xiongde , Chen Zhijie , Han Shijie
Published: December 2024

Global climate change, characterized by nitrogen (N) deposition and precipitation reduction, can disrupt soil microbial stoichiometry and soil nutrient availability, subsequently affecting soil nutrient cycles. However, the effects of N deposition and precipitation reduction on microbial stoichiometry and the soil nutrient status in temperate forests remain poorly understood. This study addresses this gap through a 10-year field trial conducted in a Korean pine mixed forest in northeastern China where three treatments were applied: precipitation reduction (PREC), nitrogen addition (N50), and a combination of nitrogen addition with precipitation reduction (PREC-N50). The results showed that N50 and PREC significantly increased carbon-to-phosphorus (C/P) and nitrogen-to-phosphorus (N/P) imbalances, thereby exacerbating microbial P limitation, while PREC-N50 did not alter the nutrient imbalances. PREC decreased soil water availability, impairing microbial nutrient acquisition. Both N50 and PREC influenced soil enzyme stoichiometry, leading to increasing the ACP production. The results of redundancy analysis indicated that microbial nutrient status, enzymatic activity, and composition contributed to the variations in nutrient imbalances, suggesting the adaption of microorganisms to P limitation. These results highlight that N addition and precipitation reduction enhanced microbial P limitation, boosting the shifts of microbial elemental composition, enzyme production, and community composition, and subsequently impacting on forest nutrient cycles.
Fire Protection of Utility Pine Wood Poles
Authors: Machado José Saporiti , Cordeiro Elisabete , Knapic Sofia , Morgado Telmo , Dias Alfredo M. P. G.
Published: December 2024

The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires are affecting the use of wood products in rural areas as well as at the wildland–urban interface. The enhancement in wood products’ reaction/resistance to fire is a concern often raised by national authorities. In the present study, different fire protection measures were applied to utility wood poles aiming to protect them from wildfires, ensuring their reuse in safe conditions while preventing them from contributing to the propagation of forest fires, particularly surface fires. Two of the solutions tested were based on intumescent paints, while the other one involved a system that completely covers the poles’ exteriors (a fabric-protection layer mechanically applied to the surface of the pole). These solutions were initially assessed in small-scale laboratory tests. Following these initial tests, a selected solution based on fabric protection was tested under simulated wildland fire conditions. The results obtained showed that fabric-based protection delivered satisfactory results, being easily applied on site, allowing the protection of poles already in service and the replacement of fire protection devices after a fire occurs.
Maximum Entropy Solutions with Hyperbolic Cosine and Secant Distributions: Theory and Applications
Authors: Secrest Jeffery A. , Jones Daniel
Published: December 2024

This work explores the hyperbolic cosine and hyperbolic secant functions within the framework of the maximum entropy principle, deriving these probability distribution functions from first principles. The resulting maximum entropy solutions are applied to various physical systems, including the repulsive oscillator and solitary wave solutions of the advection equation, using the method of moments. Additionally, a different moment analysis using experimental and theoretical inputs is employed to address non-linear systems described by the non-linear Schrödinger equation, non-linear diffusion equation, and Korteweg–de Vries equation, demonstrating the versatility of this approach. These findings demonstrate the broad applicability of maximum entropy methods in solving different differential equations, with potential implications for future research in non-linear dynamics and transport physics.
A Comparison of Water Flooding and CO2-EOR Strategies for the Optimization of Oil Recovery: A Case Study of a Highly Heterogeneous Sandstone Formation
Authors: Bui Dung , Nguyen Son , Ampomah William , Acheampong Samuel Appiah , Hama Anthony , Amosu Adewale , Koray Abdul-Muaizz , Appiah Kubi Emmanuel
Published: December 2024

This study presents a comparative analysis of CO2-EOR and water flooding scenarios to optimize oil recovery in a geologically heterogeneous reservoir with a dome structure and partial aquifer support. Using production data from twelve production and three monitoring wells, a dynamic reservoir model was built and successfully history-matched with a 1% deviation from actual field data. Three main recovery methods were evaluated: water flooding, continuous CO2 injection, and water-alternating-gas (WAG) injection. Water flooding resulted in a four-fold increase from primary recovery, while continuous CO2 injection provided up to 40% additional oil recovery compared to water flooding. WAG injection further increased recovery by 20% following water flooding. The minimum miscibility pressure (MMP) was determined using a 1D slim-tube simulation to ensure effective CO2 performance. A sensitivity analysis on CO2/WAG ratios (1:1, 2:1, 3:1) revealed that continuous CO2 injection, particularly in high permeability zones, offered the most efficient recovery. An economic evaluation indicated that the optimal development strategy is 15 years of water flooding followed by 15 years of continuous CO2 injection, resulting in a net present value (NPV) of USD 1 billion. This study highlights the benefits of CO2-EOR for maximizing oil recovery and suggests further work on hybrid EOR techniques and carbon sequestration in depleted reservoirs.
Symbolic Death and the Eccentric Sphere: “Remarks” on Hölderlin’s Oedipus
Authors: Mendicino Kristina
Published: December 2024

Insofar as the caesura of tragic temporality and the movement of “tragic transport’” are said to be shaped by a tendency toward the “eccentric sphere of the dead” in Friedrich Hölderlin’s “Remarks on Oedipus”, the privileged position of this sphere within Hölderlin’s “Remarks” solicits further analysis of what this topos signifies within both Hölderlin’s poetological writings and his translation of Oedipus the King. How does the “eccentric sphere of the dead” relate to Hölderlin’s formal descriptions of the caesura that lends tragic succession a certain equilibrium, and what is implied in the qualification of this region as an “eccentric sphere”? How does the “eccentric sphere of the dead” register in the language of Sophocles’ tragedy? And conversely, what does the language of Oedipus the King indicate concerning the constitution and parameters of the “spheres” of the living and the dead? These are the questions that will be pursued in this essay, beginning with the broader resonance of the terms to which Hölderlin takes recourse in his “Remarks”, and proceeding to the ways in which the limits of life and death are articulated in Sophocles’ drama and Hölderlin’s translation. Those elaborations of the “eccentric sphere of the dead” will, in turn, allow for a reinterpretation of the more formal determinations of “tragic transport” that Hölderlin offers.
The Use of Haloperidol as a Sedative During Childbirth: An Extreme Form of Obstetric Violence in Spain
Authors: Olza Ibone , Quintela Oscar , García-Martínez Araceli
Published: December 2024

Obstetric violence during pregnancy and childbirth is unfortunately a major problem throughout the world. Neuroleptanalgesia is a classic form of analgesia which consists in administering analgesics and neuroleptics, such as haloperidol, simultaneously. Haloperidol is still occasionally used during childbirth and, in most cases, without informed consent in Spain. It is used with the excuse of being an antiemetic, but the reality is that it is a form of obstetric violence called chemical submission. The combination of haloperidol with opioids leads to a potentiation of the sedative effects of both drugs, which may lead to multiplied risks for both mother and baby. At present, the use of haloperidol during childbirth is a practice exclusive to Spain. In fact, the association El Parto es Nuestro (Birth Is Ours) launched an awareness campaign in February 2021 aimed at eradicating the use of haloperidol during childbirth without informed consent. The present essay aims to bring awareness about the ongoing practice of using haloperidol. It is of great importance to eradicate this practice that is so harmful to mothers and their babies, as well as educate health personnel regarding this situation.
Under-Five Child Poverty and Income Inequality in South Africa: A Multidimensional Perspective at the Lowest Geographic Areas
Authors: Mathebula Jabulani , Alaba Olufunke
Published: December 2024

Under-five child poverty and income inequality are complex socio-economic phenomena that significantly impact the well-being of children worldwide. While there is a growing body of literature addressing child poverty in South Africa, our understanding of settlement discrepancies and factors influencing multidimensional under-five child poverty and income in the country remains limited. This study assesses under-five-specific multidimensional poverty and the determinates of child poverty and inequality in the lowest geographical areas in South Africa. Alkire-Foster’s methodology was applied to construct and estimate the multidimensional poverty index for under-five children across settlement areas. The selected indicators were designed to reflect the unique deprivations and challenges faced by children in this age group. The results showed that there is a significant number of children who are deprived in indicators such as access to ECD (43%), hunger (20%), and education and employment at 69% and 65%, respectively. These are some key variables that require policy interventions to improve the development outcomes of children. The logistic regression results showed that 14 out of the 34 predictors were significant. Inequality was significant and positive at 1%. The findings suggest that more work still needs to be undertaken to improve the living conditions of children, especially in the former homelands, to achieve the goals set in the National Development Plan and Sustainable Development Goals. In the past, non-whites were assigned a homeland according to their ethnicity or a place where national or ethnic identity has formed.
Fructose-Derived Carbon Dots as Selective Antitumor Agents in Breast Cancer Therapy: Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Magalhães Sofia , Luís Carla , Duarte Abel
Published: December 2024

This study explored a novel method using fructose-derived carbon dots (FCDs) for antitumor therapy in breast cancer (BC), marking a pioneering use of fructose as a carbon source for nanoparticle synthesis. BC, known for its complexity and heterogeneity, was chosen as a model due to its increasing mortality and incidence rates. The FCD synthesis involved the decomposition of fructose through microwave irradiation, followed by purification and characterization using techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, fluorescence spectrophotometry, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The FCDs, ranging in size from 2 to 6 nm, presented a hydrodynamic diameter below 2 nm, a spherical morphology, and a crystalline structure. As expected, FCDs were composed by carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen, and exhibited fluorescence with absorption and emission spectra at 405 nm and around 520 nm, respectively. Cell-based assays on breast epithelial and tumor cell lines demonstrated a dose-dependent response, with a decreased viability rate more pronounced in breast tumor cells. In conclusion, FCDs showed significant potential as selective antitumor agents for breast cancer therapy. The comprehensive characterization and cell-based assay evaluations provided valuable insights into the applications of these nanoparticles in breast cancer treatment, highlighting their selective toxicity and impact on tumor cells.
How Dietary Habits and Nutritional Deficiencies Relate to Hyponatremia in Older Adults
Authors: Ayub Maaha , Angez Meher , Musavi Nabiha B. , Rehman Syed Tabish , Kataria Deepak , Farhan Rabeea , Jamshed Namirah
Published: December 2024

Hyponatremia, a common electrolyte imbalance in older adults, results from physiological aging, medication use, and comorbidities, with significant implications for morbidity and quality of life. This narrative review aims to explore the impact of dietary habits and nutritional deficiencies on the development and management of hyponatremia in this population. A literature search identified relevant studies addressing the risk factors related to sodium balance, dietary intake, and nutrition. The key findings reveal that low sodium and age-related changes increase vulnerability to hyponatremia and its associated risks, including cognitive decline and falls. Nutritional strategies, such as optimizing sodium and protein intake and reducing processed food consumption, may offer preventative benefits. Future research should focus on tailored dietary interventions and establishing sodium intake guidelines specific to older adults. Implementing such strategies could improve the health outcomes and reduce the healthcare costs associated with hyponatremia in older populations.
Point-Based Prediction Model for Bladder Cancer Risk in Diabetes: A Random Survival Forest-Guided Approach
Authors: Yau Sarah Tsz Yui , Hung Chi Tim , Leung Eman Yee Man , Chong Ka Chun , Lee Albert , Yeoh Eng Kiong
Published: December 2024

Background: Previous epidemiological studies have shown that diabetes is associated with an increased risk of several cancers, including bladder cancer. However, prediction models for bladder cancer among diabetes patients remain scarce. This study aims to develop a scoring system for bladder cancer risk prediction among diabetes patients who receive routine care in general outpatient clinics using a machine learning-guided approach. Methods: A territory-wide retrospective cohort study was conducted using electronic health records of Hong Kong. Patients who received diabetes care in public general outpatient clinics between 2010 and 2019 without a history of malignancy were identified and followed up until December 2019. To develop a scoring system for bladder cancer risk prediction, random survival forest was employed to guide variable selection, and Cox regression was subsequently applied for weight assignment. Results: Of the 382,770 patients identified, 644 patients developed bladder cancer during follow-up (median: 6.2 years). The incidence rate was 0.29 per 1000 person-years. In the final time-to-event scoring system, age, serum creatinine, sex, and smoking were included as predictors. Serum creatinine ≥94 µmol/L appeared to be associated with an increased risk of developing bladder cancer. The 2-year and 5-year AUCs on test set were 0.88 (95%CI: 0.84–0.92) and 0.86 (95%CI: 0.80–0.92) respectively. Conclusions: Renal dysfunction could be a potential predictor of bladder cancer among diabetes patients. The proposed scoring system could be potentially useful for providing individualized risk prediction among diabetes patients.
Relationship Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Periodontal Disease—Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dolcezza Sabino , Flores-Fraile Javier , Lobo-Galindo Ana Belén , Montiel-Company José María , Zubizarreta-Macho Álvaro
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the association between rheumatoid arthritis and periodontal disease. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis of the scientific literature was carried out based on the recommendations of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). We analyzed all studies that evaluated the relationship between the chronic inflammatory diseases through the response to non-surgical periodontal treatment, comparing the values of CAL (Clinical Attachment Level) for PD (periodontal disease) and DAS28 for RA. A total of three databases were searched in the literature search: Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science. After eliminating duplicate articles and applying certain inclusion criteria, of the 29 articles found, a total of 6 were included in the present study. Results: A statistically significant difference in mean reduction of −0.56 mm was obtained for CAL, with a 95% confidence interval of the difference between −0.82 and −0.31 (z-test = −4.33; p-value = 0.001) in favor of the periodontal treatment group. The heterogeneity of the meta-analysis was slight (I2 = 39% and Q = 8.19; p-value = 0.146). For DAS28, treatment showed a mean reduction of −0.39 DAS points, with a 95% CI between −0.46 and −0.31 (z-test = −10.3; p-value < 0.001) among patients with PD and RA. Conclusions: The present study shows how the control of periodontal disease through non-surgical periodontal treatment can reduce the severity of RA. This finding consistently supports the idea that there is a pathogenic association between these two chronic inflammatory diseases.
Assessing the Diagnostic Performance of Automated Pituitary Gland Volume Measurement for Idiopathic Central Precocious Puberty
Authors: Kim Hayoun , Yu Inkyu
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: It is known that the pituitary gland volume (PV) in idiopathic central precocious puberty (IPP) is significantly higher than in healthy children. However, most PV measurements rely on manual quantitative methods, which are time-consuming and labor-intensive. This study aimed to automatically measure the PV of patients with IPP using artificial intelligence to accurately quantify the correlation between IPP and PV, and to improve the efficiency of diagnosing IPP. Methods: From July 2016 to February 2024, 226 patients who had been diagnosed with IPP and undergone brain MR imaging were included (117 males and 109 females; median age, 8 years; interquartile range, 7–9 years). A control group of 52 patients who had undergone brain MR imaging without symptoms of precocious puberty was also included (37 males and 15 females; median age, 8 years; interquartile range, 8–9 years). Measurement variability was examined between manual and automatic measurements (n = 57). The pituitary gland volume was measured using 1–3 mm thickness T1 sagittal images from non-enhanced brain MR imaging, analyzed with the MA-net artificial intelligence learning method. Physical characteristics (height, weight, and age) were correlated with PV, and the difference in PV between the IPP group and the control group was evaluated. Results: The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.993 for agreement between manual and automatic measurement. Confounding bias was reduced by PSM. PV was positively correlated with age and body weight in the IPP group (17.4%, p = 0.009, and 14.0%, p = 0.037). The median values of PV were 432 mm³ in the IPP group and 380 mm³ in the control group, showing a significant difference of 52 mm³ (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The PV in the IPP group was significantly higher than in the control group. Automatically measuring PV along with assessing hormone levels could enable a faster and more straightforward diagnosis of IPP.
Comparative Analysis of Different Graphite Concentrations in Micro-PMEDM Drilling
Authors: Ravasio Chiara , Pellegrini Giuseppe , Rosace Giuseppe , Trovato Valentina
Published: December 2024

Micro-electrical discharge machining is valuable in industry thanks to its ability to realise precise micro-holes with high aspect ratios. However, a limitation of the technology is represented by its low material removal rate compared to other material removal technologies. Therefore, different strategies are under investigation to make the process faster. One of these strategies consists of adding powders into the dielectric. This process is called powder-mixed electrical discharge machining (PMEDM). This paper focusses on the optimisation of different aspects of this process, particularly the effects of the powder concentration, the presence of the surfactant, the stirring of the dielectric during the machining and the stability in time of the dielectric in micro-drilling. Graphite was used as powder in pure water, and in some tests a dispersant was also added. The concentration of the powder was varied, maintaining the same ratio between the graphite and the surfactant. The optimal graphite concentration was also used without the dispersant but with a changed parameter for the stirring system. The powder-mixed dielectrics showed better removal performance than pure water, and the best graphite concentration was the highest. The material removal rate increased by 40–150% compared to pure water. The tests made without dispersant showed that its presence did not improve the machining rate, while the stirring system deeply affected the process. The electrode wear benefitted from the reduction in machining time, and when the dispersant was used, electrode wear was lowered up to 50% compared to pure water. The trend of the electrode law of motion was affected by the concentration of the contaminant (debris from the erosion and powder). The geometrical characteristics were also affected by the presence of the powder, which changed the spark length. With the highest graphite concentration, radial overcut increased up to 50% compared to pure water. The stability in time of the dielectric when the powder was added was also evaluated and it was found that an efficient stirring system without the use of dispersant is a good solution, able to limit the possible sedimentation and aggregation of the powder.
Development of Virtual Water Flow Sensor Using Valve Performance Curve
Authors: Kim Taeyang , Kim Hyojun , Lee Jinhyun , Cho Younghum
Published: December 2024

This research focuses on addressing the limitations of conventional physical sensors and developing a virtual water flow rate prediction technology. With HVAC systems being increasingly adopted, research on optimizing control settings based on load variations is critical. Existing systems often operate based on peak load conditions, leading to energy overconsumption in partial load scenarios. Physical sensors used for water flow measurement face challenges such as installation difficulties in constrained spaces and increased costs in large buildings. Virtual water flow rate prediction technology offers a cost-effective solution by leveraging in situ measurement data instead of extensive physical sensors. To achieve this, a test bed with a pump, valve, and heat pump was used, controlled via a BAS. Water flow rate was measured using an ultrasonic flow meter, and differential pressure was recorded using pressure gauges. Equations were developed to replace differential pressure values with valve opening rates and pump speeds by deriving performance curves and differential pressure ratio equations. Measurement uncertainty was calculated to assess the reliability of the experimental setup. Various test numbers were created to evaluate the virtual water flow rate model under controlled conditions. The results showed that relative errors ranged from 0.32% to 10.54%, with RMSE, MBE, and CvRMSE meeting all threshold criteria. The virtual water flow rate model demonstrated strong predictive accuracy and reliability, supported by an R2 value close to 1. This research confirms the effectiveness of the proposed model for reducing the dependence on physical sensors while enabling accurate water flow rate predictions in HVAC systems.
Sulfur Analogs of the Core Formose Cycle: A Free Energy Map
Authors: Kua Jeremy , Peña Maria T. , Cotter Samantha N. , Leca John
Published: December 2024

Using computational methods, we examine if the presence of H2S can tame the unruly formose reaction by generating a free energy map of the reaction thermodynamics and kinetics of sulfur analogs within the core cycle. With mercaptoaldehyde as the linchpin C2 species, and feeding the cycle with CH2O, selected aldol additions and enolizations are kinetically more favorable. Thione formation is thermodynamically less favored compared to aldehydes and ketones, but all these species can be connected by enolization reactions. In some sulfur analogs, the retroaldol transformation of a C4 species back into linchpin species is thermodynamically favorable, and we have found one route incorporating where incorporating sulfur selects for a specific pathway over others. However, as CH2O diminishes, the aldol addition of larger species is less favorable for the sulfur analogs. Our results also suggest that competing Cannizzaro side reactions are kinetically less favored and thermodynamically disfavored when H2S is abundant.
The Microbiota–Gut–Brain Axis: Key Mechanisms Driving Glymphopathy and Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Authors: Che Mohd Nassir Che Mohd Nasril , Che Ramli Muhammad Danial , Mohamad Ghazali Mazira , Jaffer Usman , Abdul Hamid Hafizah , Mehat Muhammad Zulfadli , Hein Zaw Myo
Published: December 2024

The human microbiota constitute a very complex ecosystem of microorganisms inhabiting both the inside and outside of our bodies, in which health maintenance and disease modification are the main regulatory features. The recent explosion of microbiome research has begun to detail its important role in neurological health, particularly concerning cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD), a disorder associated with cognitive decline and vascular dementia. This narrative review represents state-of-the-art knowledge of the intimate, complex interplay between microbiota and brain health through the gut–brain axis (GBA) and the emerging role of glymphatic system dysfunction (glymphopathy) and circulating cell-derived microparticles (MPs) as mediators of these interactions. We discuss how microbial dysbiosis promotes neuroinflammation, vascular dysfunction, and impaired waste clearance in the brain, which are critical factors in the pathogenesis of CSVD. Further, we discuss lifestyle factors that shape the composition and functionality of the microbiota, focusing on sleep as a modifiable risk factor in neurological disorders. This narrative review presents recent microbiome research from a neuroscientific and vascular perspective to establish future therapeutic avenues in targeting the microbiota to improve brain health and reduce the burden of CSVD.
Effect of Nanodiamonds on Friction Reduction Performance in Presence of Organic and Inorganic Friction Modifiers
Authors: Piya A. K. , Yang L. , Emami N. , Morina A.
Published: December 2024

The strive to reduce harmful emissions from transport has resulted in an increased emphasis on minimising friction in lubricated contacting components to improve the energy efficiency of automotive engines. In this sense, it is of particular interest to investigate whether a synergistic tribological performance could be achieved by combining two or more friction modifier additives with nanoparticles. This study conducts a comprehensive investigation into the tribological characteristics of lubricant formulations enriched with nanodiamonds (NDs), combined with organic (Glycerol Monooleate, GMO) and inorganic (molybdenum dithiocarbamate, MoDTC) friction modifiers and a low-concentration anti-wear additive (Zinc dialkyl dithio-phosphate, ZDDP). The interaction between NDs and MoDTC has been evaluated using reciprocal sliding tests at two different temperatures. The outcomes of the tribological experiments revealed that the interaction of NDs and MoDTC can enhance the friction and wear performance of steel pairs. However, this enhanced performance is shown to highly depend on other additives present in the lubricant mixture. Analysis of wear scars using High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Raman spectroscopy reveals that when NDs are fully entrapped into the formed tribofilm that contains the MoDTC-derived MoS2 layer, the lowest friction coefficient can be achieved.