bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wastegate control strategy in electrically assisted turbochargers: A formula student car case study
Authors: Shoman Mohamed , Aboelsoud Walid , Eldein Hussin Ahmed Mohamed Taher Alaa , Abdelaziz Mohamed
Published: August 2024

The pursuit of reduced carbon emissions has spurred powertrain innovations, especially in the automotive sector. This study aims to numerically analyze the electrically assisted turbocharging (eTurbo) on internal combustion engines (ICEs) with a specific focus on optimizing wastegate control across diverse engine speeds. Results highlight the significant influence of wastegate settings on critical parameters such as brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC), power, and torque. Through meticulous simulations and validation, the study identifies optimal wastegate configurations for different engine speeds. Precision control is shown to have a profound impact on BSFC, power, torque, and overall efficiency. Additionally, findings underscore the dynamic nature of eTurbo performance, emphasizing the importance of customized control strategies. The naturally aspirated model is validated with real-world data from a Honda CBR600RR engine integrated into a Formula Student vehicle powertrain, meeting competition regulations. Torque measurements obtained from a chassis dynamometer reveal a maximum relative error of 8%. A dynamic control strategy is proposed to adapt wastegate adjustments in real-time based on engine conditions, aiming to enhance system efficiency and performance, contributing to improved engine efficiency and sustainable transportation solutions. The steady state simulation results demonstrate that wastegate adjustments significantly improve performance, enhancing engine brake power, volumetric efficiency, Engine Brake Specific Fuel Consumption (BSFC), and Equivalent Brake Specific Fuel Consumption (EBSFC). EBSFC exhibits nuanced changes based on wastegate configurations and engine speeds. At a turbocharger speed of 140,000 rpm, the EBSFC drops by 2.8% at 40% wastegate opening and 10,000 rpm engine speed, while it drops by 2.5% at 20% wastegate opening and 12,000 rpm.
Novel direct injection electro-hydraulic model-based controller for high efficiency internal combustion engines
Authors: Brancaleoni Pier Paolo , Viscione Davide , Silvagni Giacomo , Ravaglioli Vittorio , Corti Enrico , Bianchi Gian Marco , De Cesare Matteo , Stola Federico
Published: August 2024

During the past years, automotive industries developed several technologies suitable to increase efficiency and reduce emissions from Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs). Among them, the adoption of high-pressure injection systems is considered crucial to optimize air-fuel mixture formation. However, the use of these technologies also promotes the formation of particulate matter (PM Particulate Matter), which is a direct result of charge stratification and fluid film on the cylinder walls. Therefore, to obtain a proper mixture formation without the risk of wall impingement, the utilization of consecutive injections is mandatory. Since modern Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) systems are typically characterized by electrical-actuated injectors connected to a single high-pressure rail, a deep understanding of electrical and hydraulic effects among two close injection events becomes essential. This paper analyzes the combinations of electrical and hydraulic effects that occur in a high-pressure GDI system performing multiple injections. By using a specifically developed open vessel flushing bench, the injection system has been characterized in terms of pressure wave propagation as well as electrical distortions of the driving current profile of the injectors. The analysis of the experimental data has allowed for the calibration of the residual magnetization characteristic map in addition to the development of a pressure wave propagation control-oriented model. Finally, a Magnetization and Pressure Wave (MPW) correction strategy, easily implementable on an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) without the need for additional sensors, has been proposed. By running the MPW strategy, the error between the actual and expected injected mass has been reduced below 5% in all tested conditions.
Numerical investigation of rip currents near a barred beach induced by irregular waves
Authors: Ji Xinran , Xu Chuanle , Ren Zhiyuan , Wang Daoru
Published: August 2024

Rip currents pose a common natural hazard at coastal tourist beaches, presenting a significant threat to the safety of beachgoers and beach management. To better understand the characteristics of rip currents, particularly those induced by irregular waves on a barred beach, this study utilized a Boussinesq-type, phase-resolving hydrodynamic model for numerical simulations. We investigated various factors, including significant wave height, peak period, incident angle, and bottom friction, to assess their impact on rip currents formation. The results of our research reveal some key insights. Firstly, an increase in significant wave height and peak period fosters the development of rip currents. However, beyond a certain threshold, the intensity of the rip currents decreases. Conversely, a larger incident angle tends to reduce the intensity of rip currents. Additionally, higher bottom friction leads to increased energy dissipation during wave propagation, consequently resulting in decreased rip currents intensity. In an effort to create a more precise representation of real sea conditions, multi-directional waves were employed as incident waves in this study. An analysis of different standard deviations of directional distributions revealed that as the directional spread of incident waves widens, the waves become more susceptible to breaking, ultimately leading to a reduction in the intensity of rip currents.
Comparative study of two-phase flow approaches for modeling conjugate heat transfer in a three-dimensional wavy microchannel-heat sink with CuO-water nanofluid
Authors: Marzban Farshid , Marzban Mahshid , Mohammadzadeh Kazem , Davoodabadi Farahani Somayeh
Published: August 2024

This study aims to numerically investigate the conjugate heat transfer (CHT) and the changes in the hydraulic and thermal terms of laminar flow (300 ≤ Re ≤ 800) in a 3-D wavy microchannel heat sink (MCHS). The obtained results from different nanofluid flow simulated models will be compared. The numerical simulation approaches used include single-phase, mixture, Eulerian, DPM, and DDPM. The effect of adding 1%, 3%, and 6% concentration of CuO nanoparticles (100 nm) in deionized water as the base fluid is examined on various parameters such as local and axial temperature, heat transfer convective coefficient, friction factor, Nusselt number (Nu), velocity distribution, and thermal and hydraulic boundary layer parameters. The substrate surface, due to its larger area surface and the amplitude of the sinusoidal wave, has a greater impact on the nanofluid flow as a channel bottom conjugate surface compared to others. The results obtained from the different models show close agreement with each other for various cases. For example, at Re = 304, the average Nu and friction factor for pure water are approximately 10.43 and 0.0260, respectively. For water with 0.01 concentration of CuO nanoparticles, Nu is found to be in the range of 10.43–10.78, and the friction factor ranges from 0.260 to 0.290, depending on the approach used for simulation. This shows a 2% increase in Nusselt number compared to a 0.05% increase in the friction factor. Moreover, these values increase by approximately 5.7% and 11.3% on average with an increase in CuO nanoparticle concentration to 0.06. Additionally, the DPM and DDPM models show a 15% difference in the scattering of CuO nanoparticles compared to the Eulerian-Eulerian models. The single-phase model presented in this study yields similar results to the multiphase approaches. Furthermore, the PEC parameter increases by about 1.9% with the addition of CuO nanoparticles at a concentration of 0.06.
Exploring Emotions Through Co-speech Gestures: The Caveats and New Directions
Authors: Aslan Zeynep , Özer Demet , Göksun Tilbe
Published: August 2024

Co-speech hand gestures offer a rich avenue for research into studying emotion communication because they serve as both prominent expressive bodily cues and an integral part of language. Despite such a strategic relevance, gesture-speech integration and interaction have received less research focus on its emotional function compared to its cognitive function. This review aims to shed light on the current state of the field regarding the interplay between co-speech hand gestures and emotions, focusing specifically on the role of gestures in expressing and understanding both others’ and one's own emotions. The article concludes by addressing current limitations in the field and proposing future directions for researchers investigating gesture-emotion interaction. Our goal is to provide a roadmap to researchers in their exploration of the role of gestures in emotions, ultimately contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of how gestures and emotions intersect.
A Compromise! Using Star Trek: Lower Decks to Help Negotiators Move Beyond Splitting the Difference
Authors: Lewis Amy C. , Mangum Matthew D.
Published: August 2024

In this article, we use three humorous clips from Star Trek: Lower Decks to introduce common misperceptions about the role of compromise in negotiation. These clips help illustrate the difference between compromise and collaborative strategies and allow students to analyze the clips to identify appropriate strategies to employ in different situations. They can also complement traditional negotiation simulations and exercises. The humor in these clips can lower the apprehension novice negotiators often express at the start of their first negotiation simulation in a class and help illustrate the value of considering underlying interests instead of focusing only on initial positions.
New climate dis-economies: The political economy of energy transitions in fragile fossil fuel producers
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Tarun , Miller Jared
Published: August 2024

A global energy transition from carbon-based fuels to renewable energy will have major political and economic ramifications around the world, especially for fragile fossil fuel-producing states, but these impacts are not yet well understood let alone prepared for. In many fragile fossil fuel-producing countries, an energy transition is not simply a transformation of the energy sector, but also a fundamental challenge to the political economy of the state and the way politics is practiced. This challenge is likely to be destabilizing, politically fraught, and perhaps even violent, yet the “new climate economy” literature does not fully consider the implications of what the loss of these revenues will mean, and the solutions offered do not speak to the realities of how these states operate. This article examines the different risks and opportunities of an energy transition for these states and outlines a research agenda to better understand and prepare for these outcomes.
Green synthesis of Zn-doped TIO2 nanoparticles from Zanthoxylum armatum
Authors: Batool Amina , Azizullah Azizullah , Ullah Kamran , Shad Salma , Khan Farman Ullah , Seleiman Mahmoud F. , Aziz Tariq , Zeb Umar
Published: August 2024

Green synthesis is an easy, safe, and environmentally beneficial nanoparticle creation method. It is a great challenge to simultaneously improve the capping and stabilizing agent carrier separation efficiency of photocatalysts. Herein, Zn-doped Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles with high exposure of 360 nm using a UV/visible spectrophotometer were prepared via a one-step hydrothermal decomposition method. A detailed analysis reveals that the electronic structures were modulated by Zn doping; thus, the responsive wavelength was extended to 600 nm, which effectively improved the visible light absorption of TiO2. We have optimized the different parameters like concentration, time, and temperature. The peak for TiO2 is located at 600 cm-1 in FTIR. A scanning electron microscope revealed that TiO2 has a definite shape and morphology. The synthesized Zn-doped TiO2NPs were applied against various pathogens to study their anti-bacterial potentials. The anti-bacterial activity of Zn-doped TiO2 has shown robust against two gram-ve bacteria (Salmonella and Escherichia coli) and two gram + ve bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus). Synthesized Zn-doped TiO2 has demonstrated strong antifungal efficacy against a variety of fungi. Moreover, doping TiO2 nanoparticles with metal oxide greatly improves their characteristics; as a result, doped metal oxide nanoparticles perform better than doped and un-doped metal oxide nanoparticles. Compared to pure TiO2, Zn-doped TiO2 nanoparticles exhibit considerable applications including antimicrobial treatment and water purification.
Incidence and predictors of mortality among neonates with congenital heart disease in Ethiopia: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ayfokru Abatwoy , Shewasinad Sisay , Ahmed Fuad , Tefera Mitku , Nigussie Genet , Getaneh Emawaysh , Mengstie Leweyehu Alemaw , Teklehaimanot Wegayehu Zeneb , Seyoum Worku Abemie , Gebeyehu Mohammed Tessema , Alemnew Metages , Girma Bekahegn
Published: August 2024

Background

Neonatal mortality poses a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, with congenital heart disease emerging as the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among neonates, especially in countries like Ethiopia. Despite efforts to reduce neonatal mortality rates, Ethiopia continues to experience an increased mortality rate, particularly among neonates with congenital heart disease. This study aims to investigate the incidence and predictors of mortality in this vulnerable population within Ethiopia.

Method

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at an institution, involving 583 randomly selected neonates diagnosed with congenital heart disease. In the current study, the dependent variable was survival status. Data entry utilized EpiData data version 4.6, and analysis was performed using STATA version 16. Probability of death was compared using the log-rank test and Kaplan-Meier failure curve. Significant predictors were identified using bivariable and multivariate Cox regression. Model fitness and proportional hazard assumptions were evaluated using the Cox-Snell graph and Global test, respectively. Associations were assessed by adjusted hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The study participants were followed for 4844 days. The mortality rate was 9.9%. The incidence density was 11.9 per 1000 person-days of observation. Neonatal sepsis (AHR: 2.24; 95% CI [1.18–4.23]), cyanotic congenital heart disease (AHR: 3.49; 95% CI [1.93–6.28]), home delivery (AHR: 1.9; 95% CI [1.06–3.6]), maternal history of gestational diabetes mellitus (AHR: 1.94; 95% CI [1.04–3.61]), and having additional congenital malformations (AHR: 2.49; 95% CI [1.33–4.67]) were significant predictors for neonatal mortality.

Conclusion and recommendation

The incidence density of mortality was high compared to studies conducted in developed countries. Neonatal sepsis, type of congenital heart disease, place of delivery, maternal history of gestational diabetes mellitus, and having an additional congenital malformation were significant predictors of mortality among neonates with congenital heart disease. Therefore, healthcare providers should pay special attention to patients with identified predictors. Furthermore, the Federal Ministry of Health, stakeholders, and policymakers should collaborate to address this issue.
School-based prevention of teacher and parental violence against children: Study protocol of a cluster-randomized controlled trial in Tanzania
Authors: Mattonet Katharina , Kabelege Eliud , Mkinga Getrude , Kolwey Lena , Nkuba Mabula , Masath Faustine Bwire , Hermenau Katharin , Schupp Claudia , Steinert Janina I , Hecker Tobias
Published: August 2024

Background

Violence against children at home and at school is particularly prevalent in Africa and is associated with adverse and persistent health effects on children. The violence prevention interventionInteraction Competencies with Children - for Teachers(ICC-T) is an effective tool to reduce violence against children by fostering teachers’ non-violent communication and interaction skills. To enhance these effects, in the present study, ICC-T will be extended to parents (ICC-P) aiming to increase children’s experience of consistent behavior and application of non-violent discipline strategies between teachers and parents.

Methods

To investigate the effectiveness of the school-based combined implementation of ICC-T and ICC-P, a cluster-randomized controlled trial with 16 primary schools in the urban district of Morogoro in Eastern Tanzania will be conducted. Both quantitative (structured interviews) and qualitative (focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, evaluation forms) methods will be used to investigate the effects on teachers’ and parents’ violence against children in home and school settings. The intervention implementation will be accompanied by a comprehensive process evaluation to assess the implementation quality of and participants’ engagement with ICC-T and ICC-P. Potential downstream effects of violence reduction will be investigated by assessing the children’s mental health and well-being.

Discussion

The present study aims to provide evidence for the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of the school-based combined implementation of ICC-T and ICC-P to reduce teacher and parental violence against children and contribute to children’s well-being in home and school settings.

Trail registration

The clinical trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ClinicalTrials.gov, 2024) under the identifier NCT06369025 (Hecker, Preventing Physical and Emotional Violence by Parents and Teachers in Public Schools in Tanzania (ICC-T/ICC-P_Tanz) (PreVio), 2024) on April 17, 2024.
Exploring aortic morphology and determining variable-distance insertion lengths for fluoroscopy-free resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA)
Authors: van de Voort Jan C. , Verbeek Barbara B. , van der Burg Boudewijn L.S. Borger , Hoencamp Rigo
Published: August 2024

Background (Rationale/Purpose/Objective)

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is used to temporary control non-compressible truncal hemorrhage (NCTH) as bridge to definitive surgical treatment. The dependence on radiography for safe balloon positioning is one factor that limits the extended use of REBOA in civilian and military pre-hospital settings. We aimed to determine standardized sex and age-based variable-distance catheter insertion lengths for accurate REBOA placement without initial fluoroscopic confirmation.

Methods

Contrast enhanced CT-scans from a representative sample of a Dutch non-trauma population were retrospectively analyzed. Intravascular distances were measured from the bilateral common femoral artery access points (FAAP) to the middle of the aortic occlusion zones and accompanying boundaries. Means and 95% confidence intervals for the distances from the FAAPs to the boundaries and mid-zone III were calculated for all (combined) sex and age-based subgroups. Optimal insertion lengths and potentially safe regions were determined for these groups. Bootstrap analysis was performed in combination with a 40-mm long balloon introduction simulation to determine error-rates and REBOA placement accuracy for the general population.

Results

In total, 1354 non-trauma patients (694 females) were included. Vascular distances increased with age and were longer in males. The iliofemoral trajectory was 7 mm longer on the right side. The optimal zone I catheter insertion length would be 430 mm. Optimal zone III catheter insertion lengths showed up to 30 mm difference, ranging between 234 and 264 mm. Statistically significant and potentially clinically relevant differences were observed between the anatomical distances and necessary introduction depths for each subgroup.

Conclusion

This is the first study to compare aortic morphology and intravascular distances between combined sex and age-based subgroups. As zone III length was consistent, length variability and elongation seem to mainly originate in the iliofemoral trajectory and zone II. The optimal zone I catheter insertion length would be 430 mm. Optimal zone III catheter insertion ranged between 234 and 264 mm. These standardized variable-distance insertion lengths could facilitate safer fluoroscopy-free REBOA in austere, pre-hospital settings.
Metagenome reveals the midgut microbial community of Haemaphysalis qinghaiensis ticks collected from yaks and Tibetan sheep
Authors: Zhang Ying , Cheng Tian-Yin , Liu Guo-Hua , Liu Lei , Duan De-Yong
Published: August 2024

Background

Haemaphysalis qinghaiensisis a tick species distributed only in China. Due to its ability to transmit a variety of pathogens, including species of the generaAnaplasma,Rickettsia,Babesia, andTheileria, it seriously endangers livestock husbandry. However, the microbial community of the midgut ofH. qinghaiensisfemales collected from yaks and Tibetan sheep has not yet been characterized using metagenomic sequencing technology.

Methods

Haemaphysalis qinghaiensiswere collected from the skins of yaks and Tibetan sheep in Gansu Province, China. Genomic DNA was extracted from the midguts and midgut contents of fully engorgedH. qinghaiensisfemales collected from the two hosts. Metagenomic sequencing technology was used to analyze the microbial community of the two groups.

Results

Fifty-seven phyla, 483 genera, and 755 species were identified in the two groups of samples. The ticks from the two hosts harbored common and unique microorganisms. At the phylum level, the dominant common phyla were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Mucoromycota. At the genus level, the dominant common genera wereAnaplasma,Ehrlichia, andPseudomonas. At the species level, bacteria includingAnaplasma phagocytophilum,Ehrlichia minasensis, andPseudomonas aeruginosaalong with eukaryotes such asSynchytrium endobioticumandRhizophagus irregularis, and viruses such as the orf virus,Alphadintovirus mayetiola, andParasteatodahouse spider adintovirus were detected in both groups. In addition, the midgut ofH. qinghaiensiscollected from yaks had unique microbial taxa including two phyla, eight genera, and 23 species. Unique microorganisms in the midgut ofH. qinghaiensiscollected from Tibetan sheep included two phyla, 14 genera, and 32 species. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis revealed that the functional genes of the microbiome ofH. qinghaiensiswere annotated to six pathways, and the metabolic pathways included 11 metabolic processes, in which the genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism were the most abundant, followed by the genes involved in lipid metabolism.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that most of the microbial species in the collectedH. qinghaiensisticks were the same in both hosts, but there were also slight differences. The analytical data from this study have enhanced our understanding of the midgut microbial composition ofH. qinghaiensiscollected from different hosts. The database ofH. qinghaiensismicrobe constructed from this study will lay the foundation for predicting tick-borne diseases. Furthermore, a comprehensive understanding of tick microbiomes will be useful for understanding vector competency and interactions with ticks and midgut microorganisms.

Graphical abstract
V1bR enhances glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by paracrine production of glucagon which activates GLP-1 receptor
Authors: Yun Ying , Guo Shimeng , Xie Xin
Published: August 2024

Background

Arginine vasopressin (AVP) has been reported to regulate insulin secretion and glucose homeostasis in the body. Previous study has shown that AVP and its receptor V1bR modulate insulin secretion via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. AVP has also been shown to enhance insulin secretion in islets, but the exact mechanism remains unclear.

Results

In our study, we unexpectedly discovered that AVP could only stimulates insulin secretion from islets, but not β cells, and AVP-induced insulin secretion could be blocked by V1bR selective antagonist. Single-cell transcriptome analysis identified that V1bR is only expressed by the α cells. Further studies indicated that activation of the V1bR stimulates the α cells to secrete glucagon, which then promotes glucose-dependent insulin secretion from β cells in a paracrine way by activating GLP-1R but not GCGR on these cells.

Conclusions

Our study revealed a crosstalk between α and β cells initiated by AVP/V1bR and mediated by glucagon/GLP-1R, providing a mechanism to develop new glucose-controlling therapies targeting V1bR.
Factors associated with cancer treatment resumption after ICU stay in patients with solid tumors
Authors: Benguerfi Soraya , Messéant Ondine , Painvin Benoit , Camus Christophe , Maamar Adel , Gacouin Arnaud , Ricordel Charles , Reignier Jean , Canet Emmanuel , Edeline Julien , Tadié Jean-Marc
Published: August 2024

Background

Post-intensive care syndrome could be responsible for inability to receive proper cancer treatment after ICU stay in patients with solid tumors (ST). Our purpose was to determine the factors associated with cancer treatment resumption and the impact of cancer treatment on the outcome of patients with ST after ICU stay.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study including all patients with ST admitted to the ICU between 2014 and 2019 in a French University-affiliated Hospital.

Results

A total of 219 patients were included. Median SAPS II at ICU admission was 44.0 [IQR 32.8, 66.3]. Among the 136 patients who survived the ICU stay, 81 (59.6%) received cancer treatment after ICU discharge. There was an important increase in patients with poor performance status (PS) of 3 or 4 after ICU stay (16.2% at admission vs. 44.5% of patients who survived), with significant PS decline following the ICU stay (median difference − 1.5, 95% confidence interval [-1.5-1.0], p < 0.001). The difference between the PS after and before ICU stay (delta PS) was independently associated with inability to receive cancer treatment (Odds ratio OR 0.34, 95%CI 0.18–0.56, p value < 0.001) and with 1-year mortality in patients who survived at ICU discharge (Hazard ratio HR 1.76, 95%CI 1.34–2.31, p value < 0.001). PS before ICU stay (OR 3.73, 95%IC 2.01–7.82, p value < 0.001) and length of stay (OR 1.23, 95%CI 1.06–1.49, p value 0.018) were independently associated with poor PS after ICU stay. Survival rates at ICU discharge, at 1 and 3 years were 62.3% (n = 136), 27.3% (n = 59) and 17.1% (n = 37), respectively. The median survival for patients who resumed cancer treatment after ICU stay was 771 days (95%CI 376–1058), compared to 29 days (95%CI 15–49) for those who did not resume treatment (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Delta PS, before and after ICU stay, stands out as a critical determinant of cancer treatment resumption and survival after ICU stay. Multidisciplinary intervention to improve the general condition of these patients, in ICU and after ICU stay, may improve access to cancer treatment and long-term survival.
Diversity of Calliphoridae and Sarcophagidae (Diptera: Oestroidea) in a forested area in the municipality of Macaé, RJ, Brazil
Authors: Santos Anna Beatriz Costa dos , Couri Márcia Souto , Mello-Patiu Cátia Antunes
Published: August 2024

Sarcophagidae and Calliphoridae are families of Diptera that cover, respectively, about 3,100 and 1,000 species described worldwide. The species of these families have medical and veterinary importance, due to their role as vectors of pathogenic agents. The Diptera fauna is little known in many Brazilian ecosystems, including some phytophysiognomies of the Atlantic Forest. In the present study, two expeditions were carried out, one in the rainy season and the other in the dry season, using four traps baited with fish and exposed for 48 hours in the field in the Parque Natural Municipal Atalaia in the municipality of Macaé. The collected material was sorted and assembled at Instituto de Biodiversidade e Sustentabilidade - NUPEM/UFRJ and transported to Laboratório de Biodiversidade e Sistemática de Diptera - Museu Nacional, UFRJ (MNRJ), for later identification. A total number of 712 specimens of Calliphoridae and 27 of Sarcophagidae were collected. The sampling effort for Sarcophagidae collection was average, since the species accumulation curve continues to rise, unlike the Calliphoridae curve, which remains stable. The study included species considered asynanthropic, as Hemilucilia semidiaphana (Rondani, 1850) (Calliphoridae), but also invasive species, like those of the genus Chrysomya Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 (Calliphoridae). Therefore, the present study contributed to expand knowledge about both families in the Atlantic Forest, in Rio de Janeiro, and emphasized the importance of continuing studies in the region, as many species are asynanthropic, while others are invasive, which can result in the inhibition of the native ones.
Diabetic Gastroparesis: Diagnosis, Management, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Dołęga Marcin , Dróżdż Olgierd , Gacka Piotr , Musialska Dominika , Gołda Joanna , Mężyk Julia , Snopkowska Aleksandra
Published: August 2024

Gastroparesis, a complication of diabetes, is characterized by delayed gastric emptying without obstruction. It arises from chronic hyperglycemia-induced damage to the autonomic and enteric nervous systems, manifesting primarily as nausea, vomiting, early satiety, and bloating. This condition severely impacts quality of life and glycemic control, increasing the risk of further diabetes-related complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential, involving stringent glycemic control, lifestyle changes, pharmacological therapy, and sometimes surgical interventions. Diagnostic approaches include ruling out other causes, followed by tests like scintigraphy, radiological examination, and breath tests. Treatment begins with dietary modifications and, if necessary, progresses to enteral or parenteral nutrition. Glycemic management is crucial, with specific medications either recommended or contraindicated. Pharmacological treatments include metoclopramide and domperidone, though both have significant side effects. Emerging therapies involve ghrelin and motilin agonists, and antidepressants like mirtazapine. Gastric electrical stimulation, endoscopic, and surgical procedures offer additional treatment avenues for severe cases. Effective management of gastroparesis can substantially improve patient outcomes and long-term diabetes management.
Rimegepant - a breakthrough drug for migraine treatment - literature review
Authors: Kuleta Katarzyna , Głoskowska Julia , Frańczuk Agata , Grzelka Michalina , Makłowicz Aleksandra , Kopczyńska Ewelina , Szpulak Angelika , Karkos Patrycja , Kuśmierczyk Katarzyna , Dolata Natalia
Published: August 2024

Migraine is a chronic condition that manifests itself periodically. It is characterized by recurrent, severe, often hemiplegic, throbbing headaches accompanied by autonomic symptoms in the form of nausea, vomiting, hypersensitivity to noise and light. For many years, triptans have been the gold standard in the treatment of migraine, acting by constricting blood vessels and inhibiting the release of neuropeptides. However, their efficacy is not satisfactory for all patients, especially those with cardiovascular disease. In response to the need for effective and safe therapies, gepants, a new class of drugs that block the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor, have emerged. Rimegepant, one of the newest representatives of gepant, has been approved for the treatment of migraine both in the acute attack phase and prophylactically. Clinical trials have shown its effectiveness in reducing the number of days with migraine and alleviating associated symptoms. Rimegepant also has a favorable safety profile, making it a promising therapeutic option for migraine patients. This article aims to discuss in detail rimegepant as a new treatment option for migraine, including its mechanism of action, efficacy, safety profile, clinical trial and outlines the benefits of introducing this drug into standard clinical practice.
Examining the impact of weight loss and exercise on pelvic organ prolapse (POP) management
Authors: Moskal Bartosz , Bednarczyk Małgorzata Maria
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Pelvic organ prolapse is a descent of pelvic organs such as the bladder, cervix, apex of the vagina, and rectum which create herniation and slide into the direction of the vagina entrance. Pelvic prolapse is caused by ligament and muscle weakness, and its risk increases with age, parity, and obesity. Proper exercise and weight loss can be a key component of pelvic prolapse management, especially in the I-III stages. Those interventions may decrease the need for pelvic surgery and the risk of complications that can arise from it.
Purpose of the study: This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of weight loss and exercise on pelvic organ prolapse (POP) symptoms and staging.
Materials and methods: A comprehensive analysis of research papers available on PubMed, and Google Scholar was undertaken using the keywords: ‘weight loss pelvic prolapse’, ‘exercise in pelvic prolapse’, ‘pelvic floor dysfunction’, ‘pelvic floor muscle training’, ‘hypopressive exercises’, ‘biofeedback prolapse’
Results: Conventional weight loss does not reduce the intensity of the pelvic prolapse symptoms. However, weight loss that is achieved via bariatric surgery is effective in reducing symptoms arising from pelvic organ prolapse. Furthermore, the bigger the amount of weight loss the greater improvement in symptoms. Pelvic floor muscle training showed improvement in symptoms and in the staging of pelvic organ prolapse. Hypopressive exercises are not as effective as pelvic floor muscle training. Biofeedback and supervised exercises are helpful in proper exercise execution, and thus may improve the strength of the pelvic floor muscles.
Recent discoveries of oral substances’ effects on osteoporosis treatment - novel markers and pathways
Authors: Judek Roksana , Latour Emilia , Latour Marianna , Melnyk Bohdan , Rygielski Artur
Published: August 2024

The search for optimal osteoporosis treatments continues, as the medications currently used in clinical therapy carry a risk of rare but acute side effects. New knowledge about etiopathogenetic pathways and osteoporosis biomarkers enabled the exact examination of various oral substances, often previously recognised for their positive impact on bone mass growth. A cross-section of novel reports from this year on the applications of many orally administered substances is presented. Diet, gut microbiota aspect, functional food, diabetes drug – empagliflozin and a variety of substances known from Chinese traditional medicine are now characterized in the context of the possible mechanism of treating or preventing osteoporosis. The progress of bone mass density and quality-regulating pathways recognition led to the finding of multiple orally administered substances with favorable mediation properties. The precise diagnosis of the substances' working mechanisms approves their potential use in new formulations of clinical treatments. Presently only used in diet supplementation, the orally administrated antiosteoporotic substances are potential core ingredients of modernized medications, provided their presumptive adverse effects are ruled out.
The Impact of Sleep on Athletes Performance and Injury Risk
Authors: Rygielski Artur , Melnyk Bohdan , Latour Emilia , Latour Marianna , Judek Roksana , Kowalczyk Zuzanna , Stanek Aleksandra , Płudowska Katarzyna
Published: August 2024

Introduction and purposeSleep is a critical component of an athlete's health, significantly influencing injury risk, performance, and recovery. It plays a vital role in the healing process, contributing to growth, repair, regeneration, and immunity. Current literature suggests that sleep quality impacts various aspects of athletic performance, including physical and cognitive abilities, recovery, injury risk, and mental well-being. This narrative review aims to explore the impact of sleep on the musculoskeletal system of athletes, particularly focusing on injury risk, performance, and recovery. It seeks to synthesize existing research to highlight the importance of sleep quality and duration in maintaining and enhancing athletic performance.Description of the state of knowledgeThe findings indicate that less than 7 hours of sleep is consistently associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal injury, with athletes experiencing a 1.7 times higher risk if this sleep pattern persists for at least 14 days. Some studies also highlight that athletes obtaining fewer than 6 hours of sleep per day show significant performance declines and higher injury rates.SummaryWhile evidence clearly links certain sleep behaviors to increased musculoskeletal injury and pain, it is crucial to consider sleep as one aspect of an athlete's overall health and well-being. Adequate sleep is essential for optimal athletic performance, injury prevention, and recovery. Tailored sleep strategies should be integrated into training and recovery protocols to enhance the overall health and performance of athletes.
Sudden Cardiac Death in Athletes: Magnitude, Causes, and Prevention Strategies - A Literature Review
Authors: Melnyk Bohdan , Rygielski Artur , Latour Emilia , Latour Marianna , Judek Roksana , Melnyk Mariia
Published: August 2024

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in athletes, though rare, is the leading cause of exercise-related mortality and poses significant concern due to the symbolic health and vitality of athletes. This review examines the epidemiology, causes, and prevention strategies of SCD in athletes. SCD, defined as sudden death presumed to be of cardiac origin within one hour of symptom onset, affects athletes variably depending on age, race, and type of sports. Key causes include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) in younger athletes, and coronary artery disease (CAD) in older athletes. Ion channelopathies and structural heart diseases also contribute significantly. Preparticipation screening (PPE) involving ECGs, lifestyle adjustments, and medical interventions are critical in prevention. Continuous research and adaptive guidelines are essential for safeguarding athletes against these fatal events.
Keywords: sudden cardiac death, athletes, sports, exercise, cardiovascular diseases, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease, ion channelopathies, long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome, preparticipation screening, electrocardiogram (ECG), risk factors, prevention strategies.
Assessment of Indoor Air Chemical Pollutants at Faculty of Health Sciences Administrative Offices Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur Campus
Authors: Ghani Atiah Ayunni Abdul , Awang Normah , Bakar Nur Faizah Abu , Aman Mazlin , Abdullah Mohd. Riduan , Rahman Shamrul Aizam Abdul , Nor Noraizah Muhd.
Published: August 2024

The 2010 guidelines for indoor air quality (ICOP IAQ 2010) provide a framework for evaluating and sustaining healthy indoor environments in enclosed spaces, promoting a safer and more comfortable atmosphere for occupants. Chemical pollutants in indoor air measured in this study are particulate matter (PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), formaldehyde (CH2O) and ozone (O3). A total of six sampling locations were selected, namely P1 (ReaCH), P2 (CORE), P3 (H-Care), P4 (iCaRehab & CODTIS), P5 (PD) and P6 (PTD). The results of the study found that all chemical parameters measured were found to comply with the limits allowed by ICOP IAQ 2010 except for ozone (O3) readings. The average range of carbon monoxide (CO) readings was recorded to be (0.0+0.0 ppm - 0.6+0.01 ppm) and still below the ICOP IAQ 2010 limit (10 ppm). CO2 readings ranged between (582+104 ppm - 847+67 ppm) with all readings at sampling locations complying with ICOP IAQ 2010 limits (1000 ppm). The average value for PM10 readings ranges between (0.01+0.01 ppm - 0.03+0.01 ppm) and all readings are below the ICOP IAQ 2010 limit (0.15 ppm). TVOC readings range between (0.0 + 0.0 ppm - 1.8 + 0.01 ppm) and all readings are below the ICOP IAQ 2010 limit (3 ppm). The average value for formaldehyde concentration between the reading range (0.00 + 0.00 ppm – 0.96 + 0.01 ppm) and it complies with the ICOP IAQ 2010 limit (0.10 ppm). The average O3 concentration exceeds the ICOP IAQ 2010 standard (i.e., 0.05 ppm) in the range of 0.00 + 0.00 – 0.06 + 0.01 ppm. Overall, the indoor air quality in all UKM Faculty of Health Sciences administrative offices is in good condition. However, monitoring indoor air quality periodically needs to be done to ensure that the occupants are always healthy and in a comfortable condition as well as being able to increase work productivity.
Formulation Development and Characterization of Lovastatin Nanogel for the Treatment of Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Mujtaba Md. Ali , Alam Md. Sarfaraz , Alotaibi Nawaf M.
Published: August 2024

Lovastatin (LS) is the cholesterol-lowering drug in the statin class, but it has poor oral bioavailability due to its high metabolism and low solubility, which affect its clinical efficacy. To overcome limitations associated with LS, the current study sought to develop a transdermal nanoemulsion using linseed oil and finally convert it into a nanogel formulation. Nanoemulsion (NE) was prepared using the spontaneous titration method. Different components of NE were selected based on solubility study and pseudo ternary phase diagrams were constructed using the titration method to determine the concentration range of components. Carbopol 934 was used to convert NE to nanogel (NG). The NE was selected based on the stability study and the composition of optimized NE consists of oil phase as 10%w/w linseed oil, 35%w/w Tween 80, and Polyethylene glycol 400 in 1:1 as Smix, and 55%w/w aqueous phase as water. The optimized NE (NE3) was characterized for various parameters and the formulation NE3 was found with desired globular size (108.9 ± 3.12 nm), polydispersity index 0.257 ± 0.015, zeta potential (−16.93 ± 1.12 mV), and spherical morphology. NE3 was combined with carbopol 934 to convert into NG and further characterized for pH, rheological behavior, and in vitro permeation study. The in vitro drug permeation study showed that the NG (33.69± 0.75 µg/cm2/hr) and NE (36.63± 0.55 µg/cm2/hr) have maximum permeation flux rate as compared to LS suspension (6.41±1.13 µg/cm2/hr). These results conclude that the NG formulation of LS can be a safe and effective alternative to an oral formulation of LS with enhanced permeation characteristics for transdermal delivery.
Unique Magnetically Separable MnFe2O4/HAP Nanocomposite Photocatalyst for the Removal of Dye Pollutants
Authors: Somasundaram Annette Jayam , Lydia I. Sharmila
Published: August 2024

In this present work, co-precipitation approach was employed to produce manganese ferrite (MnFe2O4) nanoparticles and hydroxyapatite (HAP) obtained from microwave assisted co-precipitation method was loaded on the synthesized MnFe2O4 to produce MnFe2O4/HAP nanocomposite which is used for the application as photocatalyst. The appearance of sharp peaks in the XRD diffractogram for MnFe2O4 shows high degree of crystallinity. The presence of flaky spherical agglomerate morphology was confirmed through SEM analysis. The distinct and sharp peaks at 563 cm-1 and 411cm-1 in the FT-IR spectra confirm the presence of ferrite phase. Diffuse reflectance analysis confirms that the as prepared photocatalysts absorb light in the visible region. The energy gap values of as-synthesized MnFe2O4 nanoparticles and MnFe2O4/HAP nanocomposite calculated using Tauc plot were found to be 1.7 eV and 1.5eV respectively. Photocatalytic activity of MnFe2O4 and MnFe2O4/HAP nanocomposites was ascertained for BV3 dye degradation under the illumination of visible light in aqueous solution. The results revealed that the degradation efficiency of 85.35 % and 93.24 % was achieved with MnFe2O4 nanoparticles and MnFe2O4/HAP nanocomposite respectively owing to the higher crystallinity and simultaneous adsorption capacity of MnFe2O4/HAP nanocomposite photocatalyst compared to MnFe2O4 nanoparticles.
A Mini Review on Monodentate Coordination Behavior of Dicyanoargentate Anion towards 3d Transition-Metal Ion, Blocked by Different Blocking Ligands
Authors: Biswas Arpita
Published: August 2024

Synthesis of coordination compounds using dicyanoargentate, [Ag(CN)2] as inorganic ligand is an interesting topic in the research area of supramolecular chemistry. Again cyano bridged compound is especially significant due to their remarkable structural diversity. As cyanometalate anions has strong affinity towards transition metal ions and it has been widely used as building blocks for the creation of coordination polymer. Dicyanoargentate anion, [Ag(CN)2] can behaves as bridging ligandas well as monodentate ligand and discrete anion. This review article mostly highlights the monodentate coordination behavior of dicyanoargentate anion towards 3d-transition metal ion in which the transition metal ion is blocked by different blocking ligands. This review also reveals the formation of different dimensionality complexes through Ag···Ag interactions when dicyanoargentate anion act as monodentate ligand.
Investigation of New Procedure for Selective Reaction and Synthesis of Some New 2-Substituted Benzimidazole Derivatives
Authors: Bodkhe Arjun , Pansare Dattatraya , Karpe Dnyaneshwar , Sudrik Vilas , Suryawanshi Manohar , Lawande Shamrao
Published: August 2024

The objective of this study is to investigate a new procedure for specifically reducing the NO2 group present on the aromatic ring along with ester group. We revealed that NaBH4-FeCl2 serves as a crucial reagent in this process. The reduction mediated by NaBH4-FeCl2 exhibited remarkable chemoselectivity, yielding the wanted products in outstanding yields of up to 90-95%. Furthermore, this process was successfully utilized in the synthesis of diamino compound, and in the synthesis of 2-substituted benzimidazole derivatives The diamine compounds was condensed with various aromatic or heterocyclic carboxylic acids in the existence of EDC.HCl and catalyst DMAP. The resulting moiety or product underwent cyclization by using CH3COOH at 100-110°C. Both the reactions (coupling & cyclization) reaction completed effectively, within the minimal reaction times. The structure of created compounds was confirmed using modern spectral techniques like FT-IR, mass spectrometry, NMR.
New Synthesis, Solvatochromism, Halochromism and Dying Applications of Azo Compound 4-hydroxy-3-((3-nitrophenyl)diazenyl)benzaldehyde
Authors: Ibrahim Myasar Kh. , Mohammed Shireen R.
Published: August 2024

This work includes synthesis of the novel azo compound, which consists of diazotization of 3-nitroaniline followed by reaction with 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde in presence of sodium carbonate. The synthesized azo compound was confirmed by characterization, using FT-IR,1HNMR, 13CNMR and GC-MS spectra. The azo compound was screened for solvatochromism, Halochromism using UV-Vis spectrophotometer, and found that the azo compound exhibited low solvatochromic and good Halochromic properties. While the dying study (Dye-doped Polymer Films), Poly ethylene was found the best polymer dyed by azo compound and showed good absorbance in the UV region. All fabrics were dyed with a yellow color except the cotton exhibiting a light brown color.