bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Glenohumeral Joint Kinematics Following the Latarjet and Eden‐Hybinette Procedures a Dynamic Radiostereometric Cadaver Study
Authors: Olsen Kipp Josephine , Thillemann Theis Muncholm , Petersen Emil Toft , de Raedt Sepp , Borgen Lærke , Brüel Annemarie , Falstie‐Jensen Thomas , Stilling Maiken
Published: December 2024

Anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone lesion can be treated with the Eden‐Hybinette procedure utilizing a tricortical iliac crest bone graft or the Latarjet procedure. This study aimed to evaluate the glenohumeral joint (GHJ) kinematics throughout an external shoulder rotation following the Eden‐Hybinette and Latarjet procedures. Nine human specimens were examined with dynamic radiostereometry during a GHJ external rotation with anteriorly directed loads from 0 to 30 N. In 30‐ and 60‐degree GHJ abduction, the kinematics (measured as the humeral head center and contact point) was sequentially recorded for a 15% anterior glenoid bone lesion, the Eden‐Hybinette, and the Latarjet procedure. The Latarjet and Eden‐Hybinette procedures resulted in up to 9.7 mm (95%CI 0.5; 18.8) more posterior and a 7.4 mm (95%CI 0.3; 14.4) superior humeral head center location compared to the glenoid bone lesion. With 0–20 N anterior directed loads, the Latarjet procedure resulted in a more posterior humeral head center and contact point of up to 7.6 mm (95%CI 3.6; 11.5), especially in 60 degrees of GHJ abduction, compared to the Eden‐Hybinette procedure. Opposite, at 30 N anterior‐directed load, the Eden‐Hybinette procedure resulted in a more posterior humeral head center of up to 7.6 mm (95%CI 0.3; 14.9) in 30 degrees GHJ abduction compared to the Latarjet procedure. The results support considering the Latarjet procedures in patients who need the stabilizing effect with the arm in the abducted and externally rotated position (e.g., throwers) and the Eden‐Hybinette procedure in patients exposed to high anterior‐directed loads with the arm at lower abduction angles (e.g., epilepsia).
Long‐term outcome of pediatric acute severe colitis: A prospective 5‐year follow‐up of the PRASCO trial
Authors: Lachman Dan , Orlanski‐Meyer Esther , Lev‐Tzion Raffi , Ledder Oren , Assa Amit , Shavit‐Brunschwig Zivia , Yerushalmi Baruch , Aloi Marina , Griffiths Anne M. , Albenberg Lindsey , Bar‐Or Itzhak , Kolho Kaija‐Leena , Shouval Dror S. , Cohen Shlomi , Turner Dan , Atia Ohad
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The PRASCO trial reported the short‐term superiority of an antibiotic cocktail plus intravenous corticosteroids (IVCS) over IVCS alone in children with acute severe colitis (ASC). Here, we report the extension of the PRASCO trial and the long‐term outcomes of the antibiotic cocktail in ASC.

Methods

This prospective follow‐up of the PRASCO trial documented disease outcomes and treatments annually through 5 years. The primary outcome was colectomy, and the secondary outcome was escalation to biologics, analyzed descriptively.

Results

A total of 26 children were included (12 receiving IVCS and 14 receiving IVCS + antibiotics), 19% of whom underwent colectomy during the follow‐up period. The estimated probability of colectomy at 3, 6, and 12 months from admission were 7.1%, 7.1%, and 21% with IVCS + antibiotics and 0%, 8.3%, and 17% with IVCS. No children required colectomy after the first year of follow‐up. The estimated probability of escalating to biologics were 66%, 77%, and 77% after 1, 2, and 3 years with IVCS + antibiotics and 42%, 51%, and 76% with IVCS. Clinical remission was higher in the IVCS + antibiotics group at each timepoint (e.g., 30% vs. 11% at 5‐years). Delta of Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index (PUCAI) score from baseline to day three of admission predicted future escalation to biologics (area under curves (AUC) 0.84 [95%CI 0.59–1.0]).

Conclusion

While adding antibiotics to IVCS may provide better short‐term outcomes, the long‐term benefits were comparable to IVCS alone. At 5 years, about one‐fifth of children had undergone colectomy, and almost four‐fifths had escalated to biologics, particularly during the first year after admission.
Food utility potential of protease obtained from insect‐commensal Bacillus subtilis AU‐2
Authors: Raut Santosh D. , Bharuka Vipul A. , Patel Aniketa R. , Patil Ulhas K.
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Bacillus subtilis AU‐2, isolated from the gut of Tribolium castaneum, was used for protease production. The purified protease was evaluated for its potential in food‐related applications including meat tenderization, milk coagulation, and the preparation of enzymatic soybean hydrolysates. Enzymatic hydrolysis of soy protein is an effective method for producing protein hydrolysates with optimal techno‐functional properties.

RESULTS

This study confirmed that B. subtilis AU‐2 is a commensal with T. castaneum, within the insect gut flora. The purified protease obtained from B. subtilis AU‐2 exhibited meat tenderization activity and an ability to promote milk coagulation within a 20 min timeframe. Soybean hydrolysate prepared using the protease exhibited a relatively higher degree of hydrolysis (20.1%) than pepsin, trypsin, and papain. The sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) peptide fragmentation pattern of the enzymatically prepared soy protein hydrolysate revealed the disappearance of ~35 kDa protein bands after 4 h protease treatment. The prepared soy protein hydrolysate showed improved emulsifying capacity (EC) (705 mL g−1) and exhibited significant 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) antioxidant activity (77.89%) and hydroxyl (OH) radical scavenging activity (97.23%).

CONCLUSIONS

The protease obtained from the newly isolated B. subtilis AU‐2 strain exhibited potential for food‐related applications, including meat tenderization, milk clotting, and soybean hydrolysate preparation. Its accessibility opens avenues for utilization in the food processing industry. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
In Situ Column Modification of Silica Monoliths With Pentafluorophenyl Ligands for the HPLC Separation of Eight Tocochromanols
Authors: Baškirovs Georgijs , Soliven Arianne , Górnaś Paweł
Published: December 2024

Silica‐based monoliths offer higher separation efficiency per unit pressure drop compared to particle‐packed columns. Their application is limited by the commercial availability of different column chemistries. Pentafluorophenyl ligands enable hydrogen bonding, dipole–dipole, π–π, and hydrophobic interactions, facilitating the separation of various compounds. This study employs an in situ modification procedure, namely, the silylation reaction to bond these specific ligands to silica‐based monoliths. Three chromolith silica monoliths were modified with three different PFP‐moieties. The silica monolith was successfully modified in situ with 3‐(pentafluorophenyl)propylmethyldichlorosilane and the separation behavior was compared to a particle‐packed pentafluorophenyl column and a C18 monolith for the separation of tocochromanols (Vitamin E‐related compounds). The C18 monolith failed to resolve all the tocochromanols, while the PFP particle‐packed column and monolith were comparable under their optimized conditions. The PFP monoliths conditions are as follows: isocratic water‐methanol (22:78, v/v) mobile phase, with a flow rate of 1.45 mL/min, at 15°C. Further chromatographic comparisons between the PFP particle‐packed column to the PFP monolith included selectivity studies under isocratic conditions via the linear solvent strength model, which also showed comparable selectivity behavior. Differences in selectivity was demonstrated for a gradient separation of eight compounds to represent a relatively more complex separation. In addition, backpressure and Van Deemter comparisons were performed, and it was demonstrated that the main PFP monolith advantages were obtained near the pressure maximum of the PFP particle‐packed column at 3.5 mL/min, comparable efficiencies were obtained, and the PFP monolith decreased the backpressure by one‐third.
Quantification of Phthalate Esters in Carbonated Soft Drinks by Hollow Fiber‐Microporous Membrane Liquid‐Liquid Extraction and 96‐Well Plate System Using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents Based on Fatty Acids
Authors: Morelli Diogo C. , Morés Lucas , Carasek Eduardo
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a green approach to sample preparation by applying natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) to determine phthalates in carbonated soft drinks using high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC‐DAD). The method employs hollow fiber‐microporous membrane liquid‐liquid microextraction combined with a 96‐well plate system, utilizing fatty‐acid‐based DES in the pores of the membranes. This methodology substantially reduces the use of organic solvents, and its efficiency is comparable to or better than conventional methods. Fatty acids with chain lengths ranging from 6 to 12 carbons were investigated for the determination of dimethyl phthalate (DMP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP). The optimized approach used a NADES of decanoic and nonanoic acids (2:3 molar ratio), with 60 min of extraction and 30 min of desorption in acetonitrile:methanol (1:1 ratio). Limits of detection were reported as 8.2 µg/L for DMP, 7.6 µg/L for DEP and DBP, and 3.0 µg/L for BBP. Intraday precision ranged from 2.2% to 18.6% and inter‐day precision from 8.8% to 18.8%. Relative recovery across 3 levels ranged from 83.1% to 113.5%. The methodology was evaluated by two tools with green metrics to indicate sustainability. Analytes are extracted, quantified, and confirmed as phthalates in two brands of carbonated soft drinks.
All‐Dielectric Meta‐Microlens‐Array Confocal Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Suresh Surag Athippillil , Vyas Sunil , Chu Cheng Hung , Yamaguchi Takeshi , Tanaka Takuo , Yeh J. Andrew , Tsai Din Ping , Luo Yuan
Published: December 2024

Acquisition time and optical sectioning capability are critical factors in fluorescence imaging. Confocal microscopy is a vital optical imaging method to inherently observe volumetric tissues with fine optical sectioning capability; however, point‐by‐point scanning is time‐consuming. Metasurfaces, a type of flat optics utilizing nano‐scale structures, provide diverse functionalities and extensive flexibility in controlling light wavefronts. Here, meta‐microlens‐array (meta‐MLA) for multifocal confocal fluorescence microscopy to enhance acquisition speed is introduced, reduce photo‐bleaching, and improve energy efficiency while remaining compatible with existing commercial scanning configurations. Point spread function (PSF) in the meta‐MLA confocal lateral and axial directions has been evaluated. Fast optically sectioned images of various samples, including pollen grains and biological tissue phantoms, are performed. Image quality is further enhanced by the Richardson–Lucy (RL) deconvolution method with total variation (TV). The trade‐off between spatial resolution and acquisition speed is overcome using deep neural network models, comparing performance metrics with a conventional confocal microscope. The combination of meta‐MLA confocal and deep learning with superior image quality and fast acquisition will likely extend the clinical applications of miniaturized optical imaging.
Pancreatic Safety of Tirzepatide and Its Effects on Islet Cell Function: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Kamrul‐Hasan A. B. M. , Mondal Sunetra , Dutta Deep , Nagendra Lakshmi , Kabir Mohammed Ruhul , Pappachan Joseph M.
Published: December 2024

Background

Endogenous glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) regulate islet cell function. GLP‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) have been associated with an elevated risk of acute pancreatitis. Data on the pancreatic safety of tirzepatide (a dual GLP‐1 and GIP agonist) and its effects on islet cell function in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are scarce. Moreover, no meta‐analysis has comprehensively examined such effects of tirzepatide.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for RCTs with tirzepatide as the intervention and a placebo or active comparator as the control. The primary outcome was adjudication‐confirmed pancreatitis; secondary outcomes were the percent changes from baseline in serum pancreatic amylase, lipase, insulin, C‐peptide, glucagon, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA2‐IR).

Results

Seventeen RCTs with 18 published reports involving 14,645 subjects were analyzed. Over a follow‐up duration of 12–72 weeks, tirzepatide had identical risks of pancreatitis to placebo (tirzepatide 5 mg: RR 2.04, 95% CI [0.27–15.69], p = 0.49; 10 mg: RR 0.63, 95% CI [0.08–5.12], p = 0.67; and 15 mg: RR 1.26, 95% CI [0.36–4.98], p = 0.72). Tirzepatide was also associated with comparable risks of pancreatitis to insulin and GLP‐1RAs. However, tirzepatide (at all doses) caused greater increases in pancreatic amylase and lipase than placebo and insulin. Individuals on tirzepatide 15 mg and GLP‐1RAs had similar risks of having increased lipase levels. The percent reductions in fasting insulin were greater with tirzepatide 10 and 15 mg than with placebo. All doses of tirzepatide caused greater percent reductions in fasting insulin, C‐peptide, and glucagon than GLP‐1RAs. Compared to placebo and GLP‐1RAs, the percent reductions in HOMA2‐IR were greater with all doses of tirzepatide.

Conclusion

The meta‐analysis provides evidence of the safety of tirzepatide regarding pancreatitis and establishes its positive effect on islet cell functions and insulin resistance.
Energy‐based characterization of polymer/particle interphase region as piled‐up equilibrated molecular layers: The impact of different distribution patterns of adsorption energy
Authors: Sharifzadeh Esmail
Published: December 2024

In this study, a novel energy‐based strategy was developed, based on equilibrating the adsorption and resistive energies, to investigate the physical/mechanical features of the polymer/particle interphase region. To this end, the interphase region was assumed to consist of a specific number of layers, with constant initial thickness, subjected to contraction force by the adsorbent. The distribution of the distance‐dependent adsorption energy inside the interphase was modeled according to linear, oval, exponential, and scaling‐based patterns. On the other hand, the values of resistive energies acting on each layer, including bulk and tensile energies, were estimated considering the equilibrated thickness of the bottom layers. The incorporation of the molecular features of the adsorbed polymer chains into the characterizing pattern of the adsorbing energy proved to considerably increase the related prediction accuracy. The validation process was performed by combining the devised strategy with a particularly developed mechanical model based on the concepts of Kolarik's approach and involving the impact of aggregation/agglomeration phenomenon. Comparing the analytical data with those elicited from the literature revealed that the exponential and scaling‐based patterns could provide reliable results (error <6%); however, oval and linear patterns considerably alleviated the accuracy of the mechanical model (error <17%).

Highlights

Characterizing the interphase based on energy equilibrium in the region.

Representing different patterns of adsorption energy distribution in the interphase.

Involving molecular characteristics of the adsorbed polymer chains on nanoparticles.

High prediction accuracy while applying exponential and scaling‐based patterns.

Designing a novel mechanical model to predict the tensile modulus of nanocomposite.
Zeolite‐impregnated polypropylene melt‐electrospun membranes for filtration applications
Authors: Karahaliloğlu Zeynep
Published: December 2024

Combining zeolites (Zeo) through electrospinning is a developing area, with relatively few studies dedicated to the production of zeolite/polymer composites. Therefore, creating highly effective filters by using a polymer base and zeolite has become necessary. In this study, a combination of polypropylene (PP) melt and zeolite by electrospinning technique is employed to fabricate a PP‐Zeo filter membrane. The average fiber diameter of PP‐Zeo filter membrane was found as 1 ± 0.02 μm. To improve the filtration efficacy, the surface of PP/Zeo membranes was modified using zeolite by two methods, electrospraying and chemical activation. According to SEM and EDX, results showed that a significantly different Al/Si atomic percentage was obtained by chemical activation compared to the electrospraying method. Additionally, the surface roughness (Sa) values significantly improved following the surface modification procedure. The surface roughness of PP/Zeo membranes modified with 5% (w/v) zeolite using the chemical activation method was 0.189 μm, compared to 0.143 μm for pure PP. This work presents a facile and effective preparation method to be used as filter for membrane filtration applications.

Highlights

Polyprophylene (PP) and zeolite (Zeo) were combined for effective filtration.

PP or PP/Zeo fiber membranes were prepared by melt‐electrospinning.

The surface was modified comparatively using electrospraying and Garcia methods.

SEM analyses indicated that the surface was coated with zeolite particles.
Resveratrol: A Narrative Review Regarding Its Mechanisms in Mitigating Obesity‐Associated Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Cai Yichen , Chen Qiu
Published: December 2024

Resveratrol (RSV) is a naturally occurring astragalus‐like polyphenolic compound with remarkable weight loss properties. However, the mechanism of RSV in treating obesity is unclear. In this narrative review, we explored electronic databases (PubMed) for research articles from 2021 to the present using the keywords “resveratrol” and “obesity”. This article explores the mechanisms involved in the alleviation of obesity‐related metabolic disorders by RSV. RSV affects obesity by modulating mitochondrial function, insulin signaling, and gut microbiota, regulating lipid metabolism, inhibiting oxidative stress, and regulating epigenetic regulation. Administering RSV to pregnant animals exhibits maternal and first‐generation offspring benefits, and RSV administration to lactating animals has long‐term benefits, which involve the epigenetic modulations by RSV. A comprehensive understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms of RSV regulation could help in developing drugs suitable for pregnancy preparation groups, pregnant women, and nursing infants.
A Conversational Assistant for Democratization of Data Visualization: A Comparative Study of Two Approaches of Interaction
Authors: Bhattacharya Abari , Di Eugenio Barbara , Grosso Veronica , Johnson Andrew , Tabalba Roderick , Kirshenbaum Nurit , Leigh Jason , Zellner Moira
Published: December 2024

Data visualization is an important aspect of exploratory data analysis which requires expertise, posing a challenge to many users. In this work, we present a conversational system designed to make data visualization accessible, where users can generate visualizations of data by natural language conversational interaction with the system. We conducted a between‐subject study to compare two versions of our system, where users were asked to perform data exploration tasks. We did not find significant differences as concerns user assessments of their interactions with the system; however, we uncovered that users explore different properties of the data and reach different conclusions when using the two systems. We will discuss the general implications of our findings as regards the usage of conversational interfaces for visualization.
Response-Adaptive Randomization Designs Based on Optimal Allocation Proportions
Authors: Pin Lukas , Villar Sofia S. , Rosenberger William F.
Published: December 2024

This book chapter discusses response-adaptive randomization procedures which are based on optimal allocation proportions, e.g. derived from theoretical optimization problems. We elucidate the objectives of these proportions, emphasizing their role in maximizing statistical power and/or enhancing patient benefit. Moreover, practical insights on estimation and targeting of these allocation proportions are provided. A clinical trial example, the CALISTO trial, illustrates the application of these procedures. We aim to provide an overview that serves as a basis for discussions about optimal allocation proportions, assists in their implementation in practice and highlights future research areas.
Representation of Mooi Indie in Nature-Based Tourism: Development of Tourism in Bandung from 1925 to 1941
Authors: Lestari Esti Indah Puji , Mudaryanti Tri Wahyuning , Muas R. Tuty Nur Mutia Enoch
Published: December 2024

This chapter investigates the role of the social organization Bandoeng Vooruit in developing urban tourism, especially modern urban tourism from 1925 to 1941 in Bandung. In addition, it provides an overview of the history of tourism in Bandung and develops a historical study of Indonesian tourism in general. The primary sources of this study are the monthly magazine Mooi Bandoeng, published by Bandoeng Vooruit, and travel guidebooks (wandelgids). The results show that Bandoeng Vooruit played an important role in developing the pattern of modern urban tourism activities in Bandung. The chapter argues that Bandoeng Vooruit had a significant role in urban place-making in Bandung and shows that urban development in colonial Indonesia was not always a top-down state program.
Religion in Urban Politics: Social Media and Its Regulatory Debates in the Aftermath of the 2017 Jakarta Gubernatorial Election
Authors: Rumata Vience Mutiara , Karman  , Sastrosubroto Ashwin S.
Published: December 2024

In Indonesia, social media is a political tool for driving public opinion and social mobilization, and it can be used to facilitate public engagement. Recent political tension during the Jakarta gubernatorial election was driven by the polarization of ideologies on social media. This chapter discusses how and to what extent technology has sharpened this polarization by reviewing the literature and theoretical and conceptual framework pertaining to this topic. This chapter presents three discussions: (1) media and ideological polarization from historical and political perspectives; (2) social media as a value creator and amplifier in the polarization context; and (3) polarization in the Jakarta gubernatorial election and its potential impact on regulation. During the Jakarta gubernatorial election, social media enabled ideological polarization between Ahokers and pro-Rizieq Shihab on issues of tolerance/intolerance, radicalism, and Pancasila-Communism. This situation challenged current internet governance and regulation in Indonesia.
Prostitution and Its Social Impact in Gang Dolly, Surabaya (1967–1999)
Authors: Hayati Mala , Mudaryanti Tri Wahyuning
Published: December 2024

This chapter discusses the growth of prostitution in a local settlement in the Putat Jaya area, Surabaya, from 1967 to 1999. The main interconnections among morality, colonialism, prostitution, and contemporary urbanism are explored and established so that the Putat Jaya case might shed light on the problems of prostitution and morality in urban Indonesia today. After Indonesian independence, prostitution in Surabaya grew not only around the harbor area but also in places such as a cemetery. This red-light district, which came to be known as “Dolly,” attracted crowds and new businesses, thereby creating a strong relationship between the district’s operations and local people’s social and economic conditions. This study uses archives from the 1838 Staatsblad No. 30 Collection of the Library of the Indonesia National Archives. In addition, data are derived from the magazine Liberty (1991) and from first-hand interviews.
Enhancing physical and mechanical properties of single-layer particleboards bonded with canola protein adhesives: impact of production parameters
Authors: Tene Tayo Lawrence , Shivappa Nayaka Darshan , Cárdenas-Oscanoa Aldo Joao , Euring Markus
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the effects of various production parameters on the physical and mechanical properties of one-layer particleboards bonded with canola protein-based adhesives. Two protein-based adhesive formulations, CPI-B-0 with sodium bisulfate and CPI-N-60 with sodium nitrite crosslinkers, were examined under different conditions: binder content, press temperature, and press time factor. Results indicate that the CPI-N-60 outperformed the CPI-B-0 in terms of internal bonding strength (IB), modulus of rupture (MOR), and modulus of elasticity (MOE) due to the stronger covalent bonds formed with primary amines present in the protein adhesive. Increasing binder content led to significant improvements in mechanical properties, with the internal bonding and the MOR increasing by 21% and 9% when using 9% binder content over 7% respectively. The press temperature, as well as the press time were found to yield the highest influence on mechanical properties, with higher values resulting in better performance. Increasing the press temperature from 170 °C to 190 °C led to 33% increment in the internal bonding and 20% in the MOR, while 67% and 28% increment was obtained with 210 °C press temperature, respectively. Increasing the press time also led to an increase in the mechanical properties of the particleboards, by almost the same proportions as the effect of press temperature. The interaction effects between production parameters highlighted the importance of optimized conditions for achieving the desired properties. Indeed, under certain press conditions, the CPI-N-60 outperformed the conventional UF K345, achieving an IB value of 0.8 N/mm2 over 0.65 N/mm2. Overall, this study contributes to a better understanding of canola protein-based bio adhesive, with implications for the optimization of the production parameters for better boards’ properties.
Analytical solutions for particle dispersion in Taylor–Green vortex flows
Authors: Dagan Yuval
Published: December 2024

This study presents new analytical solutions for the dynamics and dispersion of particles laden in two-dimensional Taylor–Green vortex flows. Explicit solutions are found for the temporal evolution of free and forced particles under the viscous decaying vortical flow for low Stokes numbers. When placed in the vicinity of the vortex structure, forced particles may either trap within or escape the vortex cell, for which an explicit criterion is proposed. Using the same methodology, the trajectories of charged particles in a vortex flow in the presence of a magnetic field are solved. All cases are compared to numerical simulations demonstrating the validity of the proposed theoretical solutions. The explicit analytical solutions derived here provide fundamental insights into the complex phenomena of particle-vortex interactions and may be used to predict and control particle dispersion in various engineering and natural systems .
Evaluation of the cyto- and genotoxicity of two types of cellulose nanomaterials using human intestinal cells and in vitro digestion simulation
Authors: Vital Nádia , Cardoso Maria , Kranendonk Michel , Silva Maria João , Louro Henriqueta
Published: December 2024

Emerging cellulose nanomaterials (CNMs) may have commercial impacts in multiple sectors, being their application particularly explored in the food sector. Thus, their potential adverse effects in the gastrointestinal tract should be evaluated before marketing. This work aimed to assess the safety of two CNMs (CNF–TEMPO and CMF–ENZ) through the investigation of their cytotoxicity, genotoxicity (comet and micronucleus assays), and capacity to induce reactive oxygen species in human intestinal cells, and their mutagenic effect using the Hprt gene mutation assay. Each toxicity endpoint was analysed after cells exposure to a concentration-range of each CNM or to its digested product, obtained by the application of a standardized static in vitro digestion method. The results showed an absence of cytotoxic effects in intestinal cells, up to the highest concentration tested (200 µg/mL or 25 µg/mL, for non-digested and digested CNMs, respectively). Of note, the cytotoxicity of the digestion control limited the top concentration of digested samples (25 µg/mL) for subsequent assays. Application of a battery of in vitro assays showed that CNF–TEMPO and CMF–ENZ do not induce gene mutations or aneugenic/clastogenic effects. However, due to the observed DNA damage induction, a genotoxic potential cannot be excluded, even though in vitro digestion seems to attenuate the effect. The lowest digested CNF–TEMPO concentration induced chromosomal damage in Caco-2 cells, leading to an equivocal outcome. Ongoing research on epigenotoxic effects of these CNMs samples may strengthen the lines of evidence on their safety when ingested, paving the way for their innovative application in the food industry.
Harnessing magnetism: evaluation of safety, tolerance and feasibility of magnetic kidney stone retrieval in vivo in porcine models
Authors: Amiel Thomas , Srinivasan Shyam , Turrina Chiara , Ebel Florian , Straub Michael , Schwaminger Sebastian P.
Published: December 2024

The primary objective of urolithiasis therapy is complete stone removal and highest stone-clearance rates possible to minimize recurrence. A novel approach that employs a magnetic suspension and a magnetic probe for the passive collection and removal of small residual fragments was developed. This study assessed the feasibility of this system in porcine models. Five female domestic pigs underwent retrograde intrarenal surgery under general anaesthesia to assess the new magnetic system. Pre-analysed human calculi were endoscopically inserted and comminuted using lithotripsy. The magnetic suspension was applied, and the magnetic-stone fragment complex was extracted. After nephrectomy, independent blinded pathologists evaluated all the kidneys. Safety and tolerance assessments revealed no adverse events (i.e. no complications on the Clavien-Dindo scale > 1) or complications associated with treatment. This study revealed superficial urothelial damage in all animals, characterized by desquamation and inflammation, caused primarily by the insertion of access sheaths and laser lithotripsy. Residual magnetic particles were observed in the renal pelvis but did not show signs of toxicity even though this study is limited to the acute treatment. No pathological indicators were observed in the hemogram and urinalysis. Overall, the treatment did not cause any significant pathological changes. Preclinical in vivo evaluation of magnetic extraction of small rest fragments in porcine kidneys presents a promising, atraumatic approach for fragments removal. It demonstrated safety, tolerance, and feasibility that warrants clinical investigation. This method has the potential to increase stone-clearance rates with shorter extraction times, offering a possibility for addressing the challenge of urolithiasis in clinical practice.
Impact of absolute values and changes in meteorological and air quality conditions on community-acquired pneumonia in Germany
Authors: Khan Saeed A. , Brenner Thomas , Link Ann-Christine , Reudenbach Christoph , Bendix Jörg , Weckler Barbara C. , Kutzinski Max , Rupp Jan , Witzenrath Martin , Rohde Gernot , Pletz Mathias W. , Bertrams Wilhelm , Schmeck Bernd
Published: December 2024

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a major global health concern as it is a leading cause of morbidity, mortality and economic burden to the health care systems. In Germany, more than 15,000 people die every year from CAP. Climate change is altering weather patterns, and it may influence the probability and severity of CAP. The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events necessitate the study of their impact on CAP hospitalizations. In this regard, we examine the influence of absolute values and changes in various meteorological and air quality conditions on the frequency of CAP hospitalizations. We matched weather data to the German CAPNETZ-Cohort of 10,660 CAP patients from 22 healthcare facilities between 2003 and 2017. Our findings show that daily fluctuations in meteorological conditions (maximum temperature, 99th percentile precipitation), apart from relative humidity, are likely to result in triggering CAP hospitalizations than absolute conditions. In contrast, the absolute values of air quality (CO, NO2, O3, PM2.5, SO2, and total aerosols) are found to exert a greater influence on CAP hospitalizations than changes in air quality. The study outcomes have implications for public health measures, early warning systems, and public awareness, with the aim of mitigating the risk of CAP.
3D waveforms and patterning behavior in thin monodisperse and multidisperse vertically-vibrated layers
Authors: Watson Peter , Bonnieu Sebastien Vincent , Anwar Ali , Lappa Marcello
Published: December 2024

Vibrofluidization in monodisperse granular materials is a hierarchical phenomenon involving different spatial and temporal behaviors, known to produce macroscopic structures with well-defined properties and high reproducibility. However, as witnessed by the paucity of relevant results in the literature, investigating the collective organization of particles across such different length and time scales becomes particularly challenging when multi-component systems are considered, i.e. if the considered vibrated material is not monodisperse. In this work, this problem is addressed through numerical simulation of the governing equations accounting for (dissipative) inelastic and frictional effects in the framework of a DEM (Discrete Element Method) method. Binary and ternary particle distributions are considered and, in order to filter out possible density-driven particle segregation or mixing mechanisms, particles are assumed to be iso-dense. The problem is initially analyzed through the coarse-grained lens of patterning behavior (supported by a Voronoi analysis for many representative cases) and then from a micromechanical level in which statistical data based on particle collisions and related dissipative effects are used to gain additional insights into the observed macroscopic trends. It is found that, starting from the initial traditional monodisperse case, the addition of particles with smaller sizes (while keeping the overall mass and depth of the considered layer almost unchanged) generally leads to a corrugation in the otherwise perfect symmetry of the original patterns, which is similar to that already seen in companion situations related to viscoelastic fluids. Moreover, while in the case of an initially hexagonal pattern, this topology is generally retained, in other situations, the initial perfection is taken over by less regular waveforms. Specific circumstances also exist where the initial square symmetry is lost in favor of a triangular symmetry. In all cases, segregation effects simply manifest as a preferential concentration of particles with larger size in an intermediate layer, which apparently behaves as a cohesive entity during each vibration cycle.
Mori-zwanzig approach for belief abstraction with application to belief space planning
Authors: Hou Mengxue , Lin Tony X. , Zhou Enlu , Zhang Fumin
Published: December 2024

We propose a learning-based method to extract symbolic representations of the belief state and its dynamics in order to solve planning problems in a continuous-state partially observable Markov decision processes (POMDP) problem. While existing approaches typically parameterize the continuous-state POMDP into a finite-dimensional Markovian model, they are unable to preserve fidelity of the abstracted model. To improve accuracy of the abstracted representation, we introduce a memory-dependent abstraction approach to mitigate the modeling error. The first major contribution of this paper is we propose a Neural Network based method to learn the non-Markovian transition model based on the Mori-Zwanzig (M-Z) formalism. Different from existing work in applying M-Z formalism to autonomous time-invariant systems, our approach is the first work generalizing the M-Z formalism to robotics, by addressing the non-Markovian modeling of the belief dynamics that is dependent on historical observations and actions. The second major contribution is we theoretically show that modeling the non-Markovian memory effect in the abstracted belief dynamics improves the modeling accuracy, which is the key benefit of the proposed algorithm. Simulation experiment of a belief space planning problem is provided to validate the performance of the proposed belief abstraction algorithms.
Molecular Signaling Pathways of Quercetin in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Promising Arena
Authors: Alsaleem Mansour A. , Al-kuraishy Hayder M. , Al-Gareeb Ali I. , Albuhadily Ali K. , Alrouji Mohammed , Yassen Asmaa S. A. , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: December 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by cognitive impairment and memory deficit. Even with extensive research and studies, presently, there is no effective treatment for the management of AD. Besides, most of drugs used in the treatment of AD did not avert the AD neuropathology, and the disease still in a progressive status. For example, acetyl cholinesterase inhibitors are associated with many adverse effects, such as insomnia and nightmares. As well, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors augment cholinergic neurotransmission leading to the development of adverse effects related to high acetylcholine level, such as salivation, rhinorrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and seizure. Furthermore, tacrine has poor bioavailability and causes hepatotoxicity. These commonly used drugs do not manage the original causes of AD. For those reasons, natural products were repurposed for the treatment of AD and neurodegenerative diseases. It has been shown that phytochemicals produce neuroprotective effects against the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases by different mechanisms, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Quercetin (QCN) has been reported to exert an effective neuroprotective effect against AD and other neurodegenerative diseases by lessening oxidative stress. In this review, electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for possible relevant studies and article linking the effect of QCN on AD. Findings from this review highlighted that many studies highlighted different mechanistic signaling pathways regarding the neuroprotective effect of QCN in AD. Nevertheless, the precise molecular mechanism of QCN in AD was not completely clarified. Consequently, this review aims to discuss the molecular mechanism of QCN in AD.
Transaction Costs, Participation, and the Cost-Effectiveness of Reverse Auctions: Evidence from a Laboratory Experiment
Authors: Li Tongzhe , Palm-Forster Leah H. , Bhuiyanmishu Siddika
Published: December 2024

Reverse auctions are often recognized as a tool that can cost-effectively allocate agri-environmental program funds to support environmentally-beneficial land management practices. However, transaction costs can limit participation in auctions which limits their cost-effectiveness. We use a laboratory experiment to examine how various levels of transaction costs influence participation and bidding behavior in discriminatory-price reverse auctions in low and high budget scenarios. Our experimental results show that transaction costs limit auction participation, increase bid amounts, and reduce cost-effectiveness. The negative effect of transaction costs on participation is particularly large when the budget level is low. Using the results of our experiment, we design a simulation to investigate whether reducing transaction costs via subsidies could increase program cost-effectiveness under various conditions. We find that transaction cost subsidies increase auction cost-effectiveness; however, our study raises new questions about how these subsidies are designed and the implications for the overall costs and benefits of efforts to reduce transaction costs in reverse auctions.
Diversity of HBCUs’ Institutional Human Capital: A Cross-Discipline, Longitudinal Analysis of Faculty Hiring and Placement at HBCUs
Authors: Yan Erjia , Palmer Robert T. , He Jiangen , Ni Chaoqun , Kelly Mat
Published: December 2024

This study examines the diversity of institutional human capital at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) by analyzing faculty educational backgrounds using a large data set on faculty hiring and placement. The analysis includes approximately four thousand faculty members employed at 10 research-intensive R2 HBCUs between 2011 and 2020. The results reveal that the 10 R2 HBCUs primarily hired tenure-track faculty from predominantly White R1 institutions. In contrast, HBCUs hired approximately 20% of their own graduates, while less than 10% of hires came from other HBCUs. Regarding placement, about 60% of HBCU graduates sought employment at HBCUs, while only a small number found employment at R1 institutions. Notably, Howard University placed 30 graduates at R1 institutions. This downward placement pattern underscores a significant trend: most HBCU hires are from R1 institutions, while HBCU graduates primarily find employment at institutions with lower research intensity. Understanding these patterns is crucial for addressing disparities in faculty representation and supporting the growth of Black professionals in academia.
Citizen preferences for climate policy implementation: the role of multistakeholder partnerships
Authors: Koliev Faradj , Bäckstrand Karin
Published: December 2024

Multistakeholder partnerships (MSPs) have been advocated as new global governance mechanisms that could address implementation and emission gaps. Yet, there is limited knowledge of how citizens evaluate MSPs as means to policy implementation, especially in comparison with governance arrangements led by traditional actors like governments and corporations. This study examines how citizens evaluate climate policy proposals involving MSPs. Does it matter for citizens who are implementing policies? If so, do citizens prefer policies implemented by MSPs or other actors, such as governments or private companies? We argue that citizens are more likely to show support for climate policies that are implemented by MSPs than for policies implemented by single actors such as governments and business. To test our expectations, we conduct a population-based conjoint survey experiment fielded to over 6000 respondents in Brazil, the UK, and the US. Our main findings are three-fold. First, in line with our expectation, we find that citizens have greater support for global climate policies if they are implemented by MSPs rather than by governments or the private sector. Second, we find that support for MSPs in the implementation of climate policies is stronger among citizens who support collaboration between different societal actors. Third, we find that citizens – regardless of their political ideology, attitudes to the environment, and confidence in their government – prefer climate policies implemented by MSPs. In addition to these results, we also find that citizens generally prefer highly ambitious and cost-effective climate policy proposals. We conclude by providing some substantial implications for our understanding of MSPs.
Damage tolerant fatigue behavior of laminated metallic composites with dissimilar yield strength
Authors: Pohl P. M. , Brodwolf R. , Ma D. , Göken M. , Höppel H. W.
Published: December 2024

Aside from other demands, damage tolerance is an important design criterion for cyclically stressed components of commercial aircraft, such as the fuselage or wings. Heterostructured materials, such as laminated metal composites (LMCs) produced by the accumulative roll bonding process (ARB), can be tailored to provide high resistance against fatigue crack growth by utilizing material heterogeneities at interfaces. In this study, the influence of the layer thickness and dissimilar yield strength at interfaces on the fatigue crack growth behavior in LMCs is investigated systematically to derive design criteria for highly damage tolerant laminated composites. A linear rule of mixture behavior is introduced as a benchmark for the damage tolerant behavior of the laminated composites. The crack growth rates of the laminated composites at elevated stress intensity ranges are significantly reduced compared to both the rule of mixture concept and the behavior of the monolithic constituents. This is explained by the onset of toughening mechanisms at the vicinity of interfaces and the formation of complex crack networks. The extent of crack growth rate reduction due to toughening mechanisms depends on both the yield strength ratio as well as layer thickness of the laminated composites. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the damage tolerant behavior was provided by determining the size of the plastic zone ahead of the crack tip using finite element analysis. An addition to the Paris crack-growth law was suggested, accounting for the additional influencing factors to accurately describe the significantly improved fatigue crack growth behavior of laminated composites.
Singular Initial Value Problems for Some Quasi-Linear Second-Order Ordinary Differential Equations
Authors: Seiler Werner M. , Seiß Matthias
Published: December 2024

We study existence, (non-)uniqueness and regularity of one- and two-sided solutions of singular initial value problems for second-order quasi-linear differential equations of the form $$g(u)u''=f(x,u,u')$$

g

(
u
)

u

′
′

=
f

(
x
,
u
,

u
′

)

with initial conditions $$u(y)=c_{0}$$

u

(
y
)

=

c
0

and $$u'(y)=c_{1}$$

u
′

(
y
)

=

c
1

where $$c_{0}$$

c
0

is a simple zero of g and $$f(y,c_{0},c_{1})=0$$

f
(
y
,

c
0

,

c
1

)
=
0

. Our approach is based on the geometric theory of differential equations and in particular on singularity theory.
Estimation of the tensile modulus of polyethylene based on single calorimetric curves
Authors: Zarbali Ali , Yosser Younsi , Menyhárd Alfréd
Published: December 2024

This study focuses on the prediction of the tensile modulus of polyethylene based on a previously developed empirical model. Just as in earlier works, the stiffness is estimated from the data evaluated from single calorimetric curves. During the work, three types of polyethylene (LDPE, MDPE and HDPE) were used. Calorimetry was employed to measure the degree of crystallinity and melting characteristics of the polymers investigated in this study, while the mechanical properties were evaluated through tensile tests conducted on standard-shaped specimens. The specimens intended for the tests were produced by injection molding and later annealed at various temperatures. The stiffness of the perfectly crystalline polymer was determined based on the propagation velocity of longitudinal sound waves in the material. The predicted and experimentally determined modulus values demonstrated a reasonably good agreement. These results verify the effectiveness of our prediction method in accurately estimating the tensile modulus of PE.
Explaining the Endurance of Price Level Differences in the Euro Area
Authors: Dixon Huw , Kosma Theodora , Petroulas Pavlos
Published: December 2024

In this paper we anaIyse price level differences in the euro area focusing on the impact of market structure and exploring how consumer behaviour can influence firms’ pricing. We consider two elements of market structure: producer market competition structure and the less explored structure of retail market competition. Regarding consumer behaviour we focus primarily on consumer habits. To this effect we utilise an extensive data set on retail prices and quantities for 41 product categories of fast-moving consumer goods across 58 regions in 10 euro area countries. Our results indicate that observed price differences reflect effects from diverse sources. The competition structure of the goods’ producers is found to be an important determinant of price differences. However, we also find that retail market structure and consumer habits also matter, explaining a significant and economically meaningful share of observed price differences. This points to possible new and important determinants of price differences across countries that go beyond the traditional goods market structure.