bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climatic Indicators and Their Variation Trends as Conditions for Forest Flammability Hazard in the South of Tyumen Oblast
Authors: Kuznetsova Elza , Marchukova Olesia , Kuznetsova Vera , Pigaryova Alyona , Zherebyateva Natalia , Moskvina Natalia
Published: December 2024

This study analyzes the forest flammability hazard in the south of Tyumen Oblast (Western Siberia, Russia) and identifies variation patterns in fire areas depending on weather and climate characteristics in 2008–2023. Using correlation analysis, we proved that the area of forest fires is primarily affected by maximum temperature, relative air humidity, and the amount of precipitation, as well as by global climate change associated with an increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and the maximum height of snow cover. As a rule, a year before the period of severe forest fires in the south of Tyumen Oblast, the height of snow cover is insignificant, which leads to insufficient soil moisture in the following spring, less or no time for the vegetation to enter the vegetative phase, and the forest leaf floor remaining dry and easily flammable, which contributes to an increase in the fire area. According to the estimates of the CMIP6 project climate models under the SSP2-4.5 scenario, by the end of the 21st century, a gradual increase in the number of summer temperatures above 35 °C is expected, whereas the extreme SSP5-8.5 scenario forecasts the tripling in the number of such hot days. The forecast shows an increase of fire hazardous conditions in the south of Tyumen Oblast by the late 21st century, which should be taken into account in the territory’s economic development.
Synthetic Jet Actuators for Active Flow Control: A Review
Authors: Ho Howard H. , Shirinzad Ali , Essel Ebenezer E. , Sullivan Pierre E.
Published: December 2024

A synthetic jet actuator (SJA) is a fluidic device often consisting of a vibrating diaphragm that alters the volume of a cavity to produce a synthesized jet through an orifice. The cyclic ingestion and expulsion of the working fluid leads to a zero-net mass-flux and the transfer of linear momentum to the working fluid over an actuation cycle, leaving a train of vortex structures propagating away from the orifice. SJAs are a promising technology for flow control applications due to their unique features, such as no external fluid supply or ducting requirements, short response time, low weight, and compactness. Hence, they have been the focus of many research studies over the past few decades. Despite these advantages, implementing an effective control scheme using SJAs is quite challenging due to the large parameter space involving several geometrical and operational variables. This article aims to explain the working mechanism of SJAs and provide a comprehensive review of the effects of SJA design parameters in quiescent conditions and cross-flow.
The Joint Contribution of Childhood Exposure to Parental Smoking and Genetic Susceptibility to Smoking to Epigenetic Age Acceleration in Late Adulthood: The Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Liu Tingting , Sun Yixi , Zhang Ruiyuan , Li Changwei
Published: December 2024

The impact of childhood exposure to parental smoking on epigenetic age acceleration (EAA) in later life has not been thoroughly investigated. This study investigates the relationship while considering genetic susceptibility to smoking. We analyzed data from 3102 participants in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) who also participated in the 2016 Venous Blood Study and the 2015–2017 Life History Mail Survey. Self-reported measures included childhood parental smoking exposure and smoking status in late adulthood. We utilized five epigenetic clocks—HorvathAA, HannumAA, GrimAA, PhenoAA, and DunedinAA—and assessed genetic susceptibility with a polygenic risk score (PRS) for smoking initiation, categorized into tertiles. We regressed the clocks against chronological age to derive EAA residuals. Associations between childhood exposure and EAA were examined in the overall sample and by PRS tertiles, stratified by race. The model controlled for age, sex, education, smoking, alcohol consumption, body mass index, and CESD scores. Significant associations were found between childhood exposure to parental smoking and the EAA measured by GrimAA (β = 0.98; p < 0.001) and DunedinAA (β = 0.01; p = 0.002) among White participants, with stronger effects in those with a high PRS. Similar patterns were observed in Black participants, highlighting the importance of preventing secondhand smoke exposure in children.
The Use of AgNP-Containing Nanocomposites Based on Galactomannan and κ-Carrageenan for the Creation of Hydrogels with Antiradical Activity
Authors: Zvereva Marina
Published: December 2024

Series of composites containing 2.5–17.0% Ag and consisting of spherical silver nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 5.1 to 18.3 nm and from 6.4 to 21.8 nm for GM- and κ-CG-based composites, respectively, were prepared using the reducing and stabilizing ability of the natural polysaccharides galactomannan (GM) and κ-carrageenan (κ-CG). The antiradical activity of the obtained composites was evaluated using the decolorization of ABTS+· solution. It was found that the IC50 value of a composite’s aqueous solution depends on the type of stabilizing ligand, the amount of inorganic phases, and the average size of AgNPs, and varies in the range of 0.015–0.08 mg·mL−1 and 0.03–0.59 mg·mL−1 for GM-AgNPs − κ-CG-AgNPs composites, respectively. GM-AgNPs − κ-CG-AgNPs hydrogels were successfully prepared and characterized on the basis of composites containing 2.5% Ag (demonstrating the most pronounced antiradical activity in terms of IC50 values per mole amount of Ag). It was found that the optimal ratio of composites that provided the best water-holding capacity and prolonged complete release of AgNPs from the hydrogel composition was 1:1. The influence of Ca2+ cations on the co-gel formation of the GM-AgNPs − κ-CG-AgNPs system, as well as the expression of their water-holding capacity and the rate of AgNPs release from the hydrogel carrier, was evaluated.
Health Promotion in Glycemic Control and Emotional Well-Being of People with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Garrido-Bueno Miguel , Pabón-Carrasco Manuel , Jiménez-Picón Nerea , Romero-Castillo Rocío
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Structured therapeutic patient education is the key to improving biopsychosocial outcomes in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus. This study aimed to determine the effects of structured therapeutic education on glycemic control and emotional well-being in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Methods: This is a systematic review with a meta-analysis (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023390079). Searches were performed in Scopus, MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL, APA PsycInfo, APA PsycArticles, and the Psychology Database (June–August 2024). The eligibility criteria included randomized controlled trials published in English or Spanish within the past 10 years. Data extraction and risk of bias evaluations were independently conducted by two reviewers. The outcomes analyzed included glycated hemoglobin, time in range, emotional well-being, self-management behaviors, and adherence to treatment. Meta-analyses were performed using RevMan with random and fixed effects models. Results: Seventeen studies met the eligibility criteria. There was a significant improvement in glycemic control, stress, anxiety, and treatment satisfaction, although the results for the other emotional outcomes were mixed. Conclusions: Structured therapeutic patient education improves glycemic control and selected emotional outcomes in individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Further trials are needed to refine the characteristics of the intervention and broaden the applicability of the findings to diverse populations.
Investigating the Challenges and Opportunities of Domiciliary Oral Care for the Older Adults: A Scoping Review
Authors: Rani Haslina , Mohd-Dom Tuti Ningseh , Meei Tew In , Rosli Muhammad Syafiq Asyraf , Quan Lee Zi , Abdul Aziz Aznida Firzah , Hassan Siti Aisya Athirah , Mohamad Aun Nur Saadah
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Older adults need specialised dental care due to age-related changes and chronic conditions, but inadequate coordination and capacity hinder access to domiciliary oral care. This review explores the characteristics, barriers, facilitators, caregiver education, and outcomes of domiciliary oral care to improve services for frail older adults. Methods: A systematic scoping search was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. A literature search was performed to identify the key search terms and the databases that were relevant to the objectives. A total of 454 documents were retrieved, 31 of which were included in the final synthesis. Results: Overall, the barriers and facilitators in delivering domiciliary dental service for the elderly can be categorised into four groups: system, oral healthcare provider, caregiver, and patient. Having policies or guidelines supporting domiciliary oral care was one of the most frequently reported factors. Six studies reported outcomes of educational programme for caregivers and all were with positive results. Conclusions: The review highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach involving the healthcare system, oral healthcare providers, caregivers, and older adults themselves to improve access to and quality of oral healthcare services for this vulnerable population.
The Effects of Motivational Interviews About Activities of Daily Living on Physical Adjustment and Quality of Life in Elderly Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients: A Randomised-Controlled Trial
Authors: Kubat Bakir Gizem , Göktas Sonay
Published: December 2024

In old age, knee osteoarthritis is a common disease that reduces mobility. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is, in fact, a very important surgery to treat severe knee osteoarthritis. This study aimed to analyse the effect of motivational interviewing (MI) on physical adjustment and quality of life among old patients after TKA. Self-assessment forms were applied before and after the intervention using the functional assessment form and SF-36 Quality of Life Questionnaire in both groups: the intervention group who received MI targeted at daily living activities and the control group who received usual care within a randomised controlled trial that included 70 participants. The results we obtained showed significantly higher functional capacity scores and QOLs among those who underwent MI than those who did not have this additional support, while showing strong adjusted mean differences between two interventions that indicate this effect size difference. There was a notable increase in SF-36 scores from 51.14 to 85.77 which was much higher than the control’s rise from 45.97 to 59.46. Therefore, these findings suggest that many elderly people can greatly improve their health status after TKA with MI as it offers an opportunity for effective recovery during the post-operative period, especially among older adults. Therefore, it can be used as an efficient method included in standard routines after operations so that results are improved and patients’ satisfaction levels also increased simultaneously too.
Increasing the Brazilian Lychee Production: A Strategy Based on the Experience of the Largest Producer Countries
Authors: Patino Marco Tulio Ospina , Martins Raquel Sanches , Pinto Ricardo Soares de Arruda , Simonato Eder Benedito , Berti Lívia Nicioli , Mozambani Amália Estela , Marcomini Gilson Rogério , Alcântara Milla Reis de
Published: December 2024

In Brazil, the fruit sector, including exotic fruits such as lychee, has great potential. In 2020, it ranked third in the world, with a 5.4% share. The objective of this research was to identify, analyze, and describe the lychee value chain in Brazil in order to compare it with that of the main producers in the world. Data of lychee production and the multiple linear regression technique were used to identify the competitiveness factor of the main lychee-producing countries, India, China, and Vietnam. The lychee value chain in Brazil was developed from secondary sources in order to compare it with these producing countries. The results show that the main competitiveness factor for China is the price; for India, the quantity produced; and for Brazil, the planted area. In India, most of the lychee produced is for domestic consumption; in China, it is for export; and Vietnam exports its production to China. Given these characteristics of the global lychee market, a production strategy to insert Brazil into this market should consider increases of 20% in the planted area and 35% in production every five years, over a period of 30 years, to make Brazil the sixth largest lychee producer in the world.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Molecular Mechanisms of Carrot Adaptation to Alternaria Leaf Blight
Authors: Liang Chen , Zhao Donghang , Ou Chenggang , Zhao Zhiwei , Zhuang Feiyun , Liu Xing
Published: December 2024

Carrot (Daucus carota L.) is an important vegetable crop that is rich in carotenoids and is widely cultivated throughout the world. Alternaria leaf blight (ALB), caused by infection with Alternaria dauci (A. dauci), is the most serious fungal disease in carrot production. Although several quantitative trait loci associated with ALB resistance have been identified, the genetic mechanisms underlying this resistance remain largely unelucidated. The aim of the present study was to clarify the infection mode of A. dauci and examine the molecular mechanisms underlying carrot cultivar adaptation to ALB by RNA sequencing. Microscopic observation revealed that A. dauci invades leaf tissues by entering through stomata, and resistant germplasms may significantly inhibit the infection and colonization of A. dauci. In addition, transcriptomic analyses were performed to detect the key pathways and genes associated with the differential responses between ALB-resistant (HB55) and ALB-susceptible (14088) carrot cultivars. These results suggest that the secondary metabolic process, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and tyrosine metabolism might play important roles in the resistance of carrots to A. dauci. Three candidate genes (LOC108208301, LOC108215577, and LOC108224339) that were specifically upregulated in the resistant carrot cultivar ‘HB55’ after A. dauci infection were identified as the key resistance response genes. These findings provide insights into the resistance mechanism of carrots to ALB, as well as key candidate genes and information on expression regulation for the molecular breeding of carrot disease resistance.
New-Generation Antibacterial Agent—Cellulose-Binding Thermostable TP84_Endolysin
Authors: Ponikowska Małgorzata , Żebrowska Joanna , Skowron Piotr M.
Published: December 2024

The increasing antibiotic resistance among bacteria challenges the biotech industry to search for new antibacterial molecules. Endolysin TP84_28 is a thermostable, lytic enzyme, encoded by the bacteriophage (phage) TP-84, and it effectively digests host bacteria cell wall. Biofilms, together with antibiotic resistance, are major problems in clinical medicine and industry. The challenge is to keep antibacterial molecules at the site of desired action, as their diffusion leads to a loss of efficacy. The TP84_28 endolysin gene was cloned into an expression-fusion vector, forming a fusion gene cbd_tp84_28_his with a cellulose-binding domain from the cellulase enzyme. The Cellulose-Binding Thermostable TP84_Endolysin (CBD_TP84_28_His) fusion protein was biosynthesized in Escherichia coli and purified. Thermostability and enzymatic activities against various bacterial species were measured by a turbidity reduction assay, a spot assay, and biofilm removal. Cellulose-binding properties were confirmed via interactions with microcellulose and cellulose paper-based immunoblotting. The high affinity of the CBD allows for a high concentration of the fusion enzyme at desired target sites such as cellulose-based wound dressings, artificial heart valves and food packaging. CBD_TP84_28_His exhibits a lytic effect against thermophilic bacteria Geobacillus stearothemophilus, Thermus aquaticus, Bacillus stearothermophilus, and Geobacillus ICI and minor effects against mesophilic Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis. CBD_TP84_28_His retains full activity after preincubation in the temperatures of 30–65 °C and exhibits significant activity up to its melting point at 73 °C. CBD_TP84_28_His effectively reduces biofilms. These findings suggest that integrating CBDs into thermostable endolysins could enable the development of targeted antibacterial recombinant proteins with diverse clinical and industrial applications.
Development of Dopant-Free N,N′-Bicarbazole-Based Hole Transport Materials for Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Adnan Muhammad , Naz Hira , Hussain Muzammil , Irshad Zobia , Hussain Riaz , Darwish Hany W.
Published: December 2024

Efficient and stable hole-transport material (HTM) is essential for enhancing the efficiency and stability of high-efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The commonly used HTMs such as spiro-OMeTAD need dopants to produce high efficiency, but those dopants degrade the perovskite film and cause instability. Therefore, the development of dopant-free N,N′-bicarbazole-based HTM is receiving huge attention for preparing stable, cost-effective, and efficient PSCs. Herein, we designed and proposed seven distinct small-molecule-based HTMs (B1–B7), which are synthesized and do not require dopants to fabricate efficient PSCs. To design this new series, we performed synergistic side-chain engineering on the synthetic reference molecule (B) by replacing two methylthio (–SCH3) terminal groups with a thiophene bridge and electron-withdrawing acceptor. The enhanced phase inversion geometry of the proposed molecules resulted in reduced energy gaps and better electrical, optical, and optoelectronic properties. Density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent DFT simulations have been used to study the precise photo-physical and optoelectronic properties. We also looked into the effects of holes and electrons and the materials’ structural and photovoltaic properties, including light harvesting energy, frontier molecular orbital, transition density matrix, density of states, electron density matrix, and natural population analysis. Electron density difference maps identify the interfacial charge transfer from the donor to the acceptor through the bridge, and natural population analysis measures the amount of charge on each portion of the donor, bridge, and acceptor, which most effectively represents the role of the end-capped moieties in facilitating charge transfer. Among these designed molecules, the B6 molecule has the greatest absorbance (λmax of 444.93 nm in dichloromethane solvent) and a substantially shorter optical band gap of 3.93 eV. Furthermore, the charge transfer analysis reveals superior charge transfer with improved intrinsic characteristics. Furthermore, according to the photovoltaic analysis, the designed (B1–B7) HTMs have the potential to provide better fill factor and open-circuit voltages, which will ultimately increase the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of PSCs. Therefore, we recommend these molecules for the next-generation PSCs.
GLI3 Is Required for M2 Macrophage Polarization and M2-Mediated Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Growth and Survival
Authors: Boutilier Ava J. , Raad Mohammad , Paar Kailey E. , Matissek Stephan J. , Banks Cameron E. , Carl Allison L. , Murray Jenna M. , Metzler Anna D. , Koeppen Katja U. , Gupta Mamta , Elsawa Sherine F.
Published: December 2024

Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM) is a non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma, characterized by bone marrow infiltration with plasma cells and lymphocytes. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays an important role in mediating WM cell biology, but the effects of macrophages on WM biology remains unclear. Here, we investigated the effects of macrophages on WM growth and survival and identified a novel role for transcription factor GLI3 in macrophage polarization. We found that co-culture of M0 and M2 macrophages promoted WM cell growth and survival, and co-culture WM cells with M0 macrophages induced M2-like phenotypes. Interestingly, GLI3 expression was induced in M2 macrophages (not M1), leading us to perform analysis of macrophages from mice lacking Gli3 in myeloid cells (M-Gli3−/− mice). A subset of differentially expressed genes implicated a role for GLI3 in macrophage polarization. Macrophages from M-Gli3−/− mice did not induce WM cell proliferation and reduced survival compared to M2 macrophages from WT mice. In addition, in vitro polarization of M0 macrophages from M-Gli3−/− was not able to induce M2 markers such as CD163, despite inducing iNos expression (M1 marker). Taken together, these results suggest a role for M2 macrophages in promoting WM cell growth and identify GLI3 as a modulator of macrophage polarization.
One Change, Many Benefits: A Glycine-Modified Bacteriochlorin with NIR Absorption and a Type I Photochemical Mechanism for Versatile Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Werłos Mateusz , Barzowska-Gogola Agata , Pucelik Barbara , Repetowski Paweł , Warszyńska Marta , Dąbrowski Janusz M.
Published: December 2024

Difluorinated sulfonamide porphyrin (F2PGly) and bacteriochlorin (F2BGly), modified by glycine residues, were synthesized and evaluated for photodynamic therapy (PDT). F₂PGly exhibits superior stability and singlet oxygen generation efficiency but features a low-intensity band in the red range (λmax = 639 nm). In contrast, F2BGly shows a favorable, red-shifted absorption spectrum (λmax = 746 nm) that aligns well with phototherapeutic window, facilitating deeper tissue penetration. Moreover, it demonstrates reasonable photostability, necessary for the efficient generation of both singlet oxygen (type II) and oxygen-centered radicals (type I mechanism) which contributes to enhanced therapeutic efficacy. Importantly, the glycine modifications in F2BGly enhance its uptake in MCF-7 cells, known for their resistance to PDT due to efflux transport proteins like LAT1, showing great potential in the cancer cell-targeted PDT. The glycine groups potentially enable F2BGly to bypass these barriers, resulting in increased intracellular accumulation and more effective Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation under illumination. In vivo studies indicated promising vascular-targeted PDT results, with real-time fluorescence imaging used to monitor photosensitizer distribution prior to irradiation. These findings suggest that F2BGly is a promising photosensitizer candidate with enhanced cancer cell selectivity and photodynamic efficiency, meriting further exploration in targeted PDT applications for multiple types of cancers.
Exploring the Biological Activity of Phytocannabinoid Formulations for Skin Health Care: A Special Focus on Molecular Pathways
Authors: Trigo Guilherme , Coelho Mariana , Ferreira Carolina Borges , Melosini Matteo , Lehmann Inês Sousa , Reis Catarina P. , Gaspar Maria Manuela , Santos Susana
Published: December 2024

Recent advancements have highlighted the potential of cannabis and its phytocannabinoids (pCBs) in skin health applications. These compounds, through their interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), show promise for skin health products. Their ability to regulate inflammation, oxidative stress and cell proliferation makes them useful in addressing skin problems such as inflammation, scarring, healing, acne and aging, positioning them as valuable tools for innovative skincare solutions. In the present work, the cellular and molecular effects of proprietary pCB-based formulations on ECS modulation, inflammation and skin regeneration were investigated. Using human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) and keratinocytes (HaCaT), the effect of formulations in both pre-treatment and treatment scenarios following exposure to stress-inducing agents was assessed. Key molecular markers were analyzed to tackle their efficacy in mitigating inflammation and promoting structural integrity and regeneration. In vitro results showed that these formulations significantly reduced inflammation, promoted skin regeneration and improved structural functions. In vivo studies confirmed that the formulations were well-tolerated and led to noticeable improvements in skin health, including enhanced barrier function. This study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of pCB-based formulations for cosmeceutical applications. By combining molecular analysis with in vivo testing, this research provides new insights into the therapeutic potential of pCBs for managing various skin conditions.
Unveiling the Future of Cardiac Care: A Review of Gene Therapy in Cardiomyopathies
Authors: Venturiello Damiano , Tiberi Pier Giorgio , Perulli Francesco , Nardoianni Giulia , Guida Leonardo , Barsali Carlo , Terrone Carlo , Cianca Alessandro , Lustri Camilla , Sclafani Matteo , Tini Giacomo , Barbato Emanuele , Musumeci Beatrice
Published: December 2024

For years, the treatment of many cardiomyopathies has been solely focused on symptom management. However, cardiomyopathies have a genetic substrate, and directing therapy towards the pathophysiology rather than the epiphenomenon of the disease may be a winning strategy. Gene therapy involves the insertion of genes or the modification of existing ones and their regulatory elements through strategies like gene replacement and gene editing. Recently, gene therapy for cardiac amyloidosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy has received approval, and important clinical trials are currently evaluating gene therapy methods for rare heart diseases like Friedreich’s Ataxia, Danon disease, Fabry disease, and Pompe Disease. Furthermore, favorable results have been noted in animal studies receiving gene therapy for hypertrophic, dilated, and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy. This review discusses gene therapy methods, ongoing clinical trials, and future goals in this area.
The Effects of Medical Students’ Learning Approach and Career Values on Their Specialty Preference
Authors: Vishnumolakala Venkat Rao , Larson Adam H. , Qureshi Sheila S. , Al-Abdulmalek Abdulrahman , Al-Thani Abdulaziz
Published: December 2024

Recent studies have identified various factors influencing how medical students choose medical specialties. An important factor that has been overlooked is learning approach. For Qatar-based medical students aspiring to train overseas, specialty preference often hinges on the relationships between learning approach and career values. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was employed to explore the relationships between learning approach, career values, and specialty preference. Data were collected from two surveys of 108 medical students at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q): the Revised Two-Factor Study Process Questionnaire (R-SPQ-2F) to assess learning approach and the adapted version of the How Medical Students Choose Questionnaire (HMSCQ) to assess career values and specialty preferences. The results showed significant correlations between learning approach, career values, and specialty preference. Surface learning approach correlated with seeking prestige, imitating role models, and valuing a varied scope of practice while deep learning approach correlated with interest in research and hospital-based careers. Our model accounted for variances in specialty preference to the following degrees: internal medicine (38%), family medicine (25%), neurology (27%), and psychiatry (18%). Medical students in Qatar adopt the learning approach that helps them achieve their career goals and matches their perceptions of medical specialties. Medical educators can foster a deeper learning approach by helping students to clarify their aims for pursuing a medical career, providing early exposure to medical specialties, and fostering a research mindset to enhance intrinsic curiosity. Students interested in physician research careers should be provided opportunities to pursue independent research.
Implementation of Crumb Rubber (CR) in Road Pavements: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Guerrero-Bustamante Oswaldo , Camargo Rafael , Dawd Ibrahim , Duque Jose , Polo-Mendoza Rodrigo , Gálvis Javier , Díaz Jesús , Daza Omar , Cucunuba Juan , Acosta Carlos
Published: December 2024

The global rise in vehicle ownership has led to a significant accumulation of waste tires, with many ending up in landfills or incinerated, resulting in considerable environmental impacts. Several end-of-life solutions have been developed to repurpose these tires, and one promising approach is converting them into crumb rubber for use in road infrastructure. Crumb rubber has been incorporated as a stabilizing agent in asphalt mixtures, Portland cement concrete, base and sub-base granular layers, and subgrades. This application not only mitigates environmental harm but also often enhances the mechanical performance of these materials. Additionally, crumb rubber (CR) serves as a low-carbon material, offering environmental benefits such as reduced carbon footprint. This study provides a comprehensive literature review on the use of crumb rubber in road infrastructure materials, examining aspects such as treatment methods, mix design, mechanical properties, durability, and environmental impacts. It also highlights knowledge gaps and potential research directions to advance the application of crumb rubber in the road infrastructure industry. The findings suggest that, at appropriate dosages (in asphalt mixtures, for example, it is between 15–20% by weight of asphalt binder), crumb rubber can shift from being an environmental burden to a valuable resource across numerous road infrastructure applications. This review aims to guide agencies, designers, engineers, and other stakeholders in informed decision-making.
Patents of Systems and Methods Using Non-Ionizing Radiation for Measuring Rearfoot Deformations: A Review
Authors: Trujillo-Hernández Gabriel , Flores-Fuentes Wendy , Ramírez-Hernández Luis Roberto , Sergiyenko Oleg , Castro-Toscano Moises J. , Mercado-Herrera Abelardo , Murrieta-Rico Fabian N.
Published: December 2024

Individuals’ lifestyles are affected by valgus and varus deformities in the rearfoot, causing pain in the joints and plantar surface due to the misalignment between the tibial and calcaneus. In orthopedics, medical professionals measure this misalignment by using X-ray systems and goniometers. The X-ray emits ionizing radiation that can cause damage through cumulative exposure over a lifetime, whereas the goniometer will produce measurement errors. This patent review conducted a technological search of systems and methods across various databases using inclusion and exclusion criteria. These thirty-five obtained patents provide valuable information about mechanical, electronic, and mechatronic technologies and non-ionizing radiation to evaluate valgus and varus deformities. The patents are classified into stationary mechanisms, stationary electronic devices, dynamic mechanisms, dynamic electronic devices, stationary mechatronic devices, and dynamic mechatronic devices. They are further categorized based on their measurement methods as either visual or automatic. Additionally, the patents are grouped by usage mode into sitting, standing, and walking. This patent review aims to provide medical professionals with little-known techniques for measuring and evaluating the rearfoot alignment.
Heavy Metals and Associated Risks of Wild Edible Mushrooms Consumption: Transfer Factor, Carcinogenic Risk, and Health Risk Index
Authors: Bucurica Ioan Alin , Dulama Ioana Daniela , Radulescu Cristiana , Banica Andreea Laura , Stanescu Sorina Geanina
Published: December 2024

This research aims to investigate the heavy metals (i.e., Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, and Pb) in the fruiting bodies of six indigenous wild edible mushrooms including Agaricus bisporus, Agaricus campestris, Armillaria mellea, Boletus edulis, Macrolepiota excoriate, and Macrolepiota procera, correlated with various factors, such as the growth substrate, the sampling site, the species and the morphological part (i.e., cap and stipe), and their possible toxicological implications. Heavy metal concentrations in mushroom (228 samples) and soil (114 samples) were determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma—Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). In the first part of the study, the soil contamination (index of geo-accumulation, contamination factor, and pollution loading index) and associated risks (chronic daily dose for three exposure pathways—ingestion, dermal, and inhalation; hazard quotient of non-cancer risks and the carcinogenic risks) were calculated, while the phytoremediation capacity of the mushrooms was determined. At the end of these investigations, it was concluded that M. procera accumulates more Cd and Cr (32.528% and 57.906%, respectively), M. excoriata accumulates Cu (24.802%), B. edulis accumulates Ni (22.694%), and A. mellea accumulates Pb (18.574%), in relation to the underlying soils. There were statistically significant differences between the stipe and cap (i.e., in the cap subsamples of M. procera, the accumulation factor for Cd was five times higher than in the stipe subsamples). The daily intake of toxic metals related to the consumption of these mushrooms with negative consequences on human health, especially for children (1.5 times higher than for adults), was determined as well.
Phylogeny and Taxonomy of the Naematelia aurantialba Complex in Southwestern China
Authors: Tang Jin-Yan , Yang Zhu-Liang
Published: December 2024

Naematelia aurantialba and its allies are important edible and medicinal mushrooms in China. They are usually called Jiner (金耳) and have been cultivated on a commercial scale. However, due to the lack of DNA sequences from the holotype of Naematelia aurantialba, the taxonomic issues of the species complex are unresolved. In this study, the authors successfully generated DNA sequences from the holotype of N. aurantialba by a genome skimming approach and additional allied species by Sanger sequencing. Based on morphological characteristics, molecular phylogenetic data, and geographic distribution patterns, four species, including three new ones, in the complex in southwestern China were uncovered. Naematelia aurantialba occurs at high altitudes (over 3000 m above sea level), with subalpine dead plants as its substrates, and has larger basidiospores, while the commonly cultivated species, described as N. sinensis in this work, is distributed in subtropical areas at altitudes between 1800 m and 2600 m on the dead wood of subtropical plants and has smaller basidiospores. The third species, namely N. nodulosa, has habitats similar to those of N. sinensis but differs from the latter in its basidiomata with an uneven nodulose surface, a loose context with small internal cavities, and numerous conidia. The fourth species, N. pedicellata, is easily distinguished from the others by its basidia, with long basal stalks and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 10.5–12.5 × 8.0–10.0 μm. All these species are parasitic on Stereum species. This study provides a solid basis for future guidance for the selection of new strains and cultivation practices of these valuable fungi.
Impacts of Landscape Types and Flower Colors on the Emotional Perceptions of Military Service Members
Authors: Thomas Alicia , Monsur Muntazar , Lindquist Carol S. , Montague Thayne , Simpson Catherine R.
Published: December 2024

Due to the unique mental and physical health challenges military service members (MSVMs) often face as a result of their service, MSVMs are a key demographic of interest. Interaction with natural environments may play a positive role in MSVMs’ overall health. Although previous research has been conducted on various population preferences and emotional responses to different types of gardens, there is a lack of data focused specifically on the garden preferences and emotional responses of MSVMs. To address this deficiency, an online survey was conducted featuring a series of questions with images related to landscape types and flower colors. The survey was disseminated via social media and military organizations to both civilians and military personnel (N = 366, with a 90.6% completion rate). Emotional responses were measured using a semantic differential scale. Most respondents were male, White, and between 25 and 35 years of age. MSVM respondents were primarily in the army and were either on active duty or honorably discharged. MSVMs and civilians showed similar garden and flower color preferences, each favoring wild landscape types and warm flower colors. However, the semantic differential analysis revealed MSVMs had significantly more negative emotional responses towards landscape types and flower colors compared to civilians. This indicates that the findings offer valuable insights into the unique emotional challenges faced by MSVMs, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Among military respondents, tropical landscapes were perceived more negatively. While it is crucial to incorporate preferred landscape elements into a design, understanding the emotional perceptions of these preferences is likely to aid garden designers in the creation of an environment that enhances overall well-being in an urban environment.
Systemic Oxidative Stress Correlates with Sarcopenia and Pruritus Severity in Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC): Two Independent Relationships Simultaneously Impacting the Quality of Life—Is the Low Absorption of Cholestasis-Promoted Vitamin D a Puzzle Piece?
Authors: Dallio Marcello , Romeo Mario , Di Nardo Fiammetta , Napolitano Carmine , Vaia Paolo , Ventriglia Lorenzo , Coppola Annachiara , Olivieri Simone , Niosi Marco , Federico Alessandro
Published: December 2024

Background: Unlike other chronic liver disorders, in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), systemic oxidative stress (SOS) worsens along with liver disease progression status (DPS), influencing muscle metabolism, muscle quantity (MQ), and itch pathways. Synergistically, cholestasis contributes to reduced vitamin D absorption, with a negative impact on MM and SOS. Despite this evidence, the prevalence of sarcopenia in PBC, and the SOS-MQ relationship comparing PBC with other CLDs, has never been investigated. Moreover, the relationship between vitamin D and MQ-SOS, and the correlation between SOS and pruritus severity, remains unexplored in PBC. Methods: A total of 40 MASLD, 52 chronic HBV infections, 50 chronic HCV infections, and 41 ursodeoxycholic acid/antioxidant-naïve PBC patients were enrolled. Biochemical, nutritional, and liver stiffness (LSM) data were collected, and sarcopenia was assessed after a normalizing 3-month dietetic–physical exercise regimen. The d-ROMs/BAP tests evaluated SOS. The validated “PBC-40 questionnaire” estimated pruritus and quality of life (QoL). Results: Unlike other CLDs, in PBC patients, sarcopenia was more prevalent in initial mild fibrosis (PBC: 57.10% vs. MASLD: 30.76%, HBV: 22.60%, HCV: 20.70%, all p < 0.0001), and SOS significantly correlated with MQ (dROMs-ASM/h2, p: 0.0002; BAP-ASM/h2: p: 0.0092). PBC patients presented lower vitamin D levels and a significant correlation of these with SOS and MQ (all p < 0.0001). SOS also correlated with pruritus severity (dROMs, R: 0.835; BAP, R: −0.775, p < 0.0001). QoL impairment was significantly more represented in PBC individuals with sarcopenia, SOS imbalance, and relevant pruritus (p: 0.0228). Conclusions: In PBC, SOS correlates with MQ impairment and pruritus severity, configuring two independent relationships simultaneously impacting QoL.
Experimental Study of Mechanical Wave Propagation in Solidifying Cement-Based Composites
Authors: Jakubka Luboš , Topolář Libor , Nekorancová Anna , Dvořák Richard , Hrabová Kristýna , Černý Felix , Skibicki Szymon , Pazdera Luboš
Published: December 2024

In this paper, a new measurement procedure is presented as an experimental study. In this experimental study, a measurement system using the pass-through pulsed ultrasonic method was used. The pilot application of the measurement setup was to monitor mechanical wave changes during the solidification and hardening of fine-grained cement-based composites. The fine-grained composites had different water–cement ratios. The measured results show apparent differences in the recorded mechanical wave parameters. Significant differences were observed in the waveforms of the amplitude increase in the passing mechanical waves. At the same time, the frequency spectra of the five most dominant frequencies are presented, where the frequency lines are clear, indicating the quality of the hydration process. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the new method is usable for fine-grained cement-based materials but is not limited to that. The advantages of this method are its high variability and non-destructive character. The experimental study also outlines the possible future applications of the pulsed passage ultrasonic method.
An Expanded Wing Crack Model for Fracture and Mechanical Behavior of Sandstone Under Triaxial Compression
Authors: Alomari Esraa , Ng Kam , Khatri Lokendra
Published: December 2024

A new model is developed to predict the mechanical behavior of brittle sandstone under triaxial compression. The proposed model aims to determine the normalized critical crack length (Lcr), through which the failure strength (σf) of sandstone can be estimated based on fracture mechanics applied to secondary cracks emanating from pre-existing flaws, while considering the interaction of neighboring cracks. In this study, the wing crack model developed by Ashby and Hallam (1986) was adopted to account for the total stress intensity at the crack tip (KI) as the summation of the stress intensity due to crack initiation and crack interaction. The proposed model is developed by first deriving the Lcr and then setting the crack length equal to the Lcr. Next, the total stress intensity is set equal to the rock fracture toughness in the original equation of KI, resulting in an estimate of the σf. Finally, to evaluate the performance of the proposed model on predicting σf, theoretical results are compared with laboratory data obtained on sandstone formations collected from Wyoming and the published literature. Moreover, the σf predicted by our proposed model is compared with those predicted from other failure criteria from the literature. The comparison shows that the proposed model better predicts the rock failure strength under triaxial compression, based on the lowest RMSE and MAD values of 36.95 and 30.93, respectively.
Third-Generation CALPHAD Modeling of Elemental Nb and Zr and Partial Re-Assessment of Their Binary Phase Diagram
Authors: Traversari Gabriele , Casu Mariano , Orrù Roberto , Cincotti Alberto , Concas Alessandro , Cao Giacomo , Locci Antonio Mario
Published: December 2024

Liquid metals and metallic alloys often exist as metastable phases or can be undercooled below their equilibrium melting point. The Traditional CALPHAD (CALculation of PHAse Diagrams) approach struggles to accurately model these metastable conditions, which are important in rapid quenching techniques like additive manufacturing, and to understand glass formation or oxidation phenomena occurring in the liquid phase during nuclear and high-temperature aerospace applications. On the contrary, the third-generation CALPHAD models have the potential to accurately describe metastable phase diagrams to provide better predictions of molten phase behavior under non-equilibrium conditions. The latter approach is utilized in this study to achieve a more accurate description of the thermodynamic properties of elemental Nb and Zr, with a particular focus on their liquid phases. By incorporating available first-principles data, the representation of the liquid state is improved for both elements, capturing the peculiar behavior of the heat capacity in a wide temperature range. These improvements enable a more reliable prediction of phase stability and liquidus boundaries in the Nb-Zr system. A partial re-assessment of the Nb-Zr binary phase diagram is also conducted with refined predictions of liquidus boundaries that align well with experimental data.
Corrosion Tendency of S235 Steel in 3.5% NaCl Solution and Drinking Water During Six Months of Exposure
Authors: Buruiană Daniela Laura , Mureşan Alina Crina , Bogatu Nicoleta , Ghisman Viorica , Herbei Elena Emanuela , Başliu Vasile
Published: December 2024

The pipeline transport industry is constantly developing due to the high efficiency, long life, varied diameters of the pipelines, but a significant problem is the corrosion that occurs because of the corrosive attack of the various environments in which the pipelines are used. This study deals with the ex situ characterizations (optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray analyses, X-ray diffraction analysis, roughness, and Vickers hardness analyses) and the in situ characterizations (gravimetric and electrochemical methods). Samples of steel were tested at immersion time, after 336 h, 672 h, 1344 h, 2016 h, and 4032 h of exposure to a 3.5% NaCl solution and drinking water. The corrosion rate evaluated with the gravimetric method varied between 0.036518 and 0.008993 mm/year in the 3.5% NaCl solution and 0.02834 and 0.034162 mm/year in drinking water. The electrochemical method resulted in an estimated corrosion rate range of 0.097–0.681 mm/year for the 3.5% NaCl solution, and 0.028–0.0472 mm/year for drinking water. The passivation effect, lifetime, and operating limit of the S235JR steel in the tested corrosive environments were studied. The study can provide technical support to increase the service life of S235JR steel and to predict the suitable environment reduce corrosion costs.
Influence of the Cooling Method on Cutting Force and Recurrence Analysis in Polymer Composite Milling
Authors: Ciecieląg Krzysztof
Published: December 2024

This work investigates the milling of the surface of glass and carbon fiber-reinforced plastics using tools with a polycrystalline diamond insert. The milling process was conducted under three different conditions, namely without the use of a cooling liquid, with oil mist cooling, and with emulsion cooling. The milling process of composites was conducted with variable technological parameters. The variable milling parameters were feed per tooth and cutting speed. The novelty of this work is the use of recurrence methods based on the cutting force signal to analyze the milling of composites with three types of cooling. The primary aim of the study was to determine the effect of variable technological milling parameters on cutting force and to select recurrence quantifications that would be sensitive to the cooling method. It has been shown that recurrence quantifications such as determinism (DET), laminarity (LAM), averaged diagonal length (L), trapping time (TT), recurrence time of the second type (T2), and entropy (ENTR) are sensitive to the cooling methods applied for the tested composite materials. The results have shown that it is possible to determine common ranges of changes in sensitive recurrence quantifications for the two tested variables parameters of milling: 0.63–0.94 (DET), 0.69–0.97 (LAM), 7.30–13.48 (L), 2.92–4.98 (TT), 17.01–38.25 (T2), 2.02–3.16 (ENTR). The ANOVA analysis results have confirmed that the studied variables have a significant impact on the recurrence quantifications.