bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Information Security Awareness in the Insurance Sector: Cognitive and Internal Factors and Combined Recommendations
Authors: Djotaroeno Morgan , Beulen Erik
Published: August 2024

Cybercrime is currently rapidly developing, requiring an increased demand for information security knowledge. Attackers are becoming more sophisticated and complex in their assault tactics. Employees are a focal point since humans remain the ‘weakest link’ and are vital to prevention. This research investigates what cognitive and internal factors influence information security awareness (ISA) among employees, through quantitative empirical research using a survey conducted at a Dutch financial insurance firm. The research question of “How and to what extent do cognitive and internal factors contribute to information security awareness (ISA)?” has been answered, using the theory of situation awareness as the theoretical lens. The constructs of Security Complexity, Information Security Goals (InfoSec Goals), and SETA Programs (security education, training, and awareness) significantly contribute to ISA. The most important research recommendations are to seek novel explaining variables for ISA, further investigate the roots of Security Complexity and what influences InfoSec Goals, and venture into qualitative and experimental research methodologies to seek more depth. The practical recommendations are to minimize the complexity of (1) information security topics (e.g., by contextualizing it more for specific employee groups) and (2) integrate these simplifications in various SETA methods (e.g., gamification and online training).
A Narrative Review of the Association between Dental Abnormalities and Chemotherapy
Authors: Akitomo Tatsuya , Tsuge Yasuko , Mitsuhata Chieko , Nomura Ryota
Published: August 2024

Dental abnormalities are often detected in childhood and are reported to occur with high prevalence in patients who have undergone cancer treatment or chemotherapy. We performed a literature search of PubMed from 2004 to 2024 using the terms “dental anomaly” and “panoramic examination”, and 298 potentially relevant articles were found. Thirty-one articles about dental abnormalities matched the eligibility criteria and were extracted for this review. Although the prevalence of tooth agenesis and microdontia in the general population was reported to be approximately 10% and 3%, respectively, the prevalence in patients who had undergone cancer treatment or chemotherapy was higher in all surveys, suggesting that the treatment is related to the occurrence of dental abnormalities. It is important to continue long-term follow-up with patients not only during treatment but also after the completion of treatment. Dental professionals should provide information about dental abnormalities to patients, their guardians, and medical professionals, which may lead to improvement in the quality of life of patients.
Adherence to Secondary Prevention Measures after Acute Myocardial Infarction and Its Impact on Patient Outcome—A Nationwide Perspective
Authors: Hammer Andreas , Sinkovec Hana , Todorovic Marko , Katsch Florian , Gall Walter , Duftschmid Georg , Heinze Georg , Niessner Alexander , Sulzgruber Patrick
Published: August 2024

Objectives: Secondary prevention is crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality in patients following acute myocardial infraction (MI). However, adherence to cardiac rehabilitation (CR) and pharmacotherapy remains suboptimal despite strong guideline recommendations. This study investigated the adherence to CR, dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), and statins following acute MI and evaluated their impact on patient outcomes from a nationwide perspective in Austria. Methods: In this national observational study, all patients diagnosed with acute MI, defined as STEMI or NSTEMI, between April 2011 and August 2015 in Austria were included. Patient characteristics and comorbidities were derived from the Austrian national health insurance system using ICD-10 codes. Adherence to CR, high-intensity statins, and DAPT was assessed based on health insurance records and pharmacy prescription submissions. Cox Regression hazard analysis was used to explore the impact of non-adherence to CR on mortality. Results: Among 16,518 acute MI patients, only 13.4% adhered to the recommended CR programs, which was associated with a significantly lower risk of mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 0.73; 95% CI: 0.54–0.98; p = 0.036). In contrast, 66.4% of 23,240 patients did not comply with high-intensity statin therapy, correlating with an increased mortality risk (adjusted HR 1.16; 95% CI: 1.06–1.25; p < 0.001). Furthermore, among 22,331 patients analyzed for DAPT adherence, only 29.3% followed the guidelines, yet this adherence was linked to a 21% reduction in mortality over the observation period (adjusted HR 0.79; 95% CI: 0.72–0.88; p < 0.001). Conclusions: This nationwide study reveals alarmingly low adherence to CR and secondary preventive medications among acute MI patients, which is significantly linked to higher mortality rates. Enhanced efforts to promote awareness and adherence are crucial, involving structured referrals and personalized follow-ups to improve patient outcomes. Addressing these gaps through comprehensive healthcare strategies could substantially enhance cardiovascular health.
Evaluating the Safety and Efficacy of a Novel Glaucoma Drainage Device in High-Risk Adult Glaucoma Patients: A One-Year Pilot Study
Authors: Ahmed Faisal , Normando Eduardo , Ahmed Syed , Virdee Simrun , Al-Nahrawy Ahmed
Published: August 2024

Background: We report on the 12-month safety and efficacy outcomes of a new non-valved glaucoma drainage device, the eyePlate-300 (Rheon Medical, Lausanne, Switzerland), in managing refractory glaucoma. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on consecutive patients over 18 who underwent glaucoma drainage device (GDD) surgery with the eyePlate-300 after a single glaucoma consultation between February 2020 and April 2021, with at least 12 months of documented post-op follow-up. Results: A total of 16 eyes from 15 patients were included. Complete success was observed in 47% of patients and overall success in 83%. The mean IOP decreased from 31.5 mm Hg to 10.7 mm Hg (67% reduction from baseline), and the number of IOP-lowering drops was reduced from 3.1 to 0.7 at one year. The mean BCVA remained stable. No additional IOP-lowering surgeries were required, and no severe sight-threatening complications were noted. Conclusions: The initial one-year results suggest that the eyePlate could be a safe and effective device for reducing IOP in an ethnically diverse refractory glaucoma population. Further follow-up is necessary to determine the long-term safety and efficacy.
Insights into the Dual Anticancer and Antibacterial Activities of Composites Based on Silver Camphorimine Complexes
Authors: Costa Joana P. , Sousa Sílvia A. , Leitão Jorge H. , Marques Fernanda , Alves Marta M. , Carvalho M. Fernanda N. N.
Published: August 2024

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is a widely used biocompatible material in orthopedic composite preparations. However, HAp composites that exhibit both anticancer and antibacterial activities through bioactive coordination complexes are relatively rare. To explore orthopedic applications, we blended several silver camphorimine compounds with HAp to create [Ag(I)] composites. All compounds [Ag(NO3)(L)n] (n = 1,2) based on camphorimine (LA), camphor sulfonimine (LB) or imine bi-camphor (LC) ligands demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity (IC50 = 0.30–2.6 μgAg/mL) against osteosarcoma cancer cells (HOS). Based on their structural and electronic characteristics, four complexes (1–4) were selected for antibacterial evaluation against Escherichia coli, Burkholderia contaminans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. All complexes (1–4) revealed combined anticancer and antibacterial activities; therefore, they were used to prepare [Ag(I)]:HAp composites of 50:50% and 20:80% weight compositions and the activities of the composites were assessed. Results showed that they retain the dual anticancer and antibacterial characteristics of their precursor complexes. To replicate the clinical context of bone-filling applications, hand-pressed surfaces (pellets) were prepared. It is worth highlighting that no agglutination agent was necessary for the pellet’s consistency. The biological properties of the so-prepared pellets were assessed, and the HOS cells and bacteria spreading on the pellet’s surface were analyzed by SEM. Notably, composite 4B, derived from the bicamphor (LC) complex [Ag(NO3)(OC10H14N(C6H4)2NC10H14O)], exhibited significant anticancer activity against HOS cells and antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa, fostering potential clinical applications on post-surgical OS treatment.
Exploring the Bioactive Potential of Moroccan Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus L.): Investigations on Molecular Weight Distribution and Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potentials
Authors: Tazi Ahmed , El Moujahed Sara , Jaouad Noura , Saghrouchni Hamza , Al-Ashkar Ibrahim , Liu Liyun , Errachidi Faouzi
Published: August 2024

Research on lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus L.) revealed a variety of active molecules and examined their biological characteristics. However, most of these studies were conducted on wild varieties, while cultivated plants were addressed less. This study aimed to characterize the biomolecules and biological activities of lemon grass growing under North African conditions in Morocco. Phenolic compound profiles of aqueous (AE), ethanol (EE), and methanol (ME) extracts and their fractions were obtained with steric exclusion chromatography on Sephadex G50 gel and identified by LC-MS/MS. Then, total polyphenols (TPC), flavonoids (TFC), and antioxidant activities (FRAP: scavenging value and TAC: Total Antioxidant Capacity) of the fraction were evaluated, as well as the antimicrobial activity. The obtained results showed that the ME contained eight major compounds (i.e., apigenine-7-O-rutinoside and myricitine-3-O-rutinoside). The AE showed the presence of five molecules (i.e., kaempferol-3-O-glucuronide), while EE showed the presence of three molecules (i.e., quercetine-3-O-rutinoside). Regarding the chemical characterization, the highest value of total phenolic content (TPC) was obtained in AE (25) (4.60 ± 0.29 mg/g), and the highest value of total flavonoid content (TFC) was obtained in ME (29) (0.7 ± 0.08 mg/g). Concerning the antioxidant activity, the highest FRAP was obtained in ME (29) (97.89%), and the highest total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was obtained in ME (29) (89.89%). Correlation between FRAP, TPC, and TFC was noted only in fractions of AE and ME. All tested extracts of C. citratus and their fractions showed a significant antimicrobial effect. The lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was recorded for ME against E. coli. Extracts’ biological activities and their fractions were governed by their active molecules. These data are new and clarify a novel aspect of bioactive molecules in the extracts of cultivated C. citratus. Equally, throughout this research, we clarified the relationship between identified molecules and their biological properties, including antioxidant and anti-microbial activities, which is new for the study area. This study is suggested as a reference for comparative studies and other assays of other biological activities for the study plant.
Differences in the Renal Accumulation of Radiogallium-Labeled (Glu)14 Peptides Containing Different Optical Isomers of Glutamic Acid
Authors: Ogawa Kazuma , Nishizawa Kota , Mishiro Kenji , Munekane Masayuki , Fuchigami Takeshi , Echigo Hiroaki , Wakabayashi Hiroshi , Kinuya Seigo
Published: August 2024

Acidic amino acid peptides have a high affinity for bone. Previously, we demonstrated that radiogallium complex-conjugated oligo-acidic amino acids possess promising properties as bone-seeking radiopharmaceuticals. Here, to elucidate the effect of stereoisomers of Glu in Glu-containing peptides [(Glu)14] on their accumulation in the kidney, the biodistributions of [67Ga]Ga-N,N′-bis-[2-hydroxy-5-(carboxyethyl)benzyl]ethylenediamine-N,N′-diacetic acid-conjugated (l-Glu)14 ([67Ga]Ga-HBED-CC-(l-Glu)14), [67Ga]Ga-HBED-CC-(d-Glu)14, [67Ga]Ga-HBED-CC-(dl-Glu)14, and [67Ga]Ga-HBED-CC-(d-Glu-l-Glu)7 were compared. Although the accumulation of these compounds in the bone was comparable, their kidney accumulation and retention were strikingly different, with [67Ga]Ga-HBED-CC-(d-Glu-l-Glu)7 exhibiting the lowest level of kidney accumulation among these compounds. Repeated d- and l-peptides may be a useful method for reducing renal accumulation in some cases.
Overcoming Cancer Drug Resistance with Nanoparticle Strategies for Key Protein Inhibition
Authors: Yoo Hyeonji , Kim Yeonjin , Kim Jinseong , Cho Hanhee , Kim Kwangmeyung
Published: August 2024

Drug resistance remains a critical barrier in cancer therapy, diminishing the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic, targeted, and immunotherapeutic agents. Overexpression of proteins such as B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), protein kinase B (Akt), and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in various cancers leads to resistance by inhibiting apoptosis, enhancing cell survival, and expelling drugs. Although several inhibitors targeting these proteins have been developed, their clinical use is often hampered by systemic toxicity, poor bioavailability, and resistance development. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems present a promising solution by improving drug solubility, stability, and targeted delivery. These systems leverage the Enhanced Permeation and Retention (EPR) effect to accumulate in tumor tissues, reducing off-target toxicity and increasing therapeutic efficacy. Co-encapsulation strategies involving anticancer drugs and resistance inhibitors within nanoparticles have shown potential in achieving coordinated pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles. This review discusses the mechanisms of drug resistance, the limitations of current inhibitors, and the advantages of nanoparticle delivery systems in overcoming these challenges. By advancing these technologies, we can enhance treatment outcomes and move towards more effective cancer therapies.
Exploring the Dynamics of Charge Transfer in Photocatalysis: Applications of Femtosecond Transient Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Na , Ma Yanlong , Sun Wanjun
Published: August 2024

Artificial photocatalytic energy conversion is a very interesting strategy to solve energy crises and environmental problems by directly collecting solar energy, but low photocatalytic conversion efficiency is a bottleneck that restricts the practical application of photocatalytic reactions. The key issue is that the photo-generated charge separation process spans a huge spatio-temporal scale from femtoseconds to seconds, and involves complex physical processes from microscopic atoms to macroscopic materials. Femtosecond transient absorption (fs-TA) spectroscopy is a powerful tool for studying electron transfer paths in photogenerated carrier dynamics of photocatalysts. By extracting the attenuation characteristics of the spectra, the quenching path and lifetimes of carriers can be simulated on femtosecond and picosecond time scales. This paper introduces the principle of transient absorption, typical dynamic processes and the application of femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy in photocatalysis, and summarizes the bottlenecks faced by ultrafast spectroscopy in photocatalytic applications, as well as future research directions and solutions. This will provide inspiration for understanding the charge transfer mechanism of photocatalytic processes.
Theoretical Study on Vibrationally Resolved Electronic Spectra of Chiral Nanographenes
Authors: Ma Yijian , Feng Xian , Yu Wenxiong , Shen Chengshuo
Published: August 2024

Nanographenes are of increasing importance owing to their potential applications in the photoelectronic field. Meanwhile, recent studies have primarily focused on the pure electronic spectra of nanographenes, which have been found to be inadequate for describing the experimental spectra that contain vibronic progressions. In this study, we focused on the vibronic effect on the electronic transition of a range of chiral nanographenes, especially in the low-energy regions with distinct vibronic progressions, using theoretical calculations. All the calculations were performed at the PBE0-D3(BJ)/def2-TZVP level of theory, adopting both time-dependent and time-independent approaches with Franck–Condon approximation. The resulting calculated curves exhibited good alignment with the experimental data. Notably, for the nanographenes incorporating helicene units, owing to the increasing π-extension, the major vibronic modes in the vibrationally resolved spectra differed significantly from those of the primitive helicenes. This investigation suggests that calculations that account for the vibronic effect could have better reproducibility compared with calculations based solely on pure electronic transitions. We anticipate that this study could pave the way for further investigations into optical and chiroptical properties, with a deeper understanding of the vibronic effect, thereby providing theoretical explanations with higher precision on more sophisticated nanographenes.
The Portfolio Diet and HbA1c in Adults Living with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Patient-Level Pooled Analysis of Two Randomized Dietary Trials
Authors: Kavanagh Meaghan E. , Back Songhee , Chen Victoria , Glenn Andrea J. , Viscardi Gabrielle , Houshialsadat Zeinab , Sievenpiper John L. , Kendall Cyril W. C. , Jenkins David J. A. , Chiavaroli Laura
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: The Portfolio Diet, a dietary pattern of cholesterol-lowering foods, is also rich in low glycemic index (GI) foods. While strong evidence supports clinically meaningful reductions in cholesterol, evidence on the relationship between the Portfolio Diet and diabetes management is lacking. (2) Objective: To evaluate the relationship between the Portfolio Diet and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) as a determinant of glycemic control among adults living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). (3) Methods: Patient-level data was pooled from two randomized dietary trials of low glycemic index interventions compared to high cereal fibre control diets in adults living with T2DM where HbA1c was collected (clinicaltrials.gov identifiers: NCT00438698, NCT00438698). Dietary exposure was assessed using weighed 7-day diet records. Adherence to the Portfolio Diet and its pillars (nuts and seeds, plant protein, viscous fibre, plant sterols, monounsaturated fatty acid [MUFA] oils) was determined using the validated clinical Portfolio Diet Score (c-PDS). Multiple linear regression was used to assess the association between change in the c-PDS and change in HbA1c over 6-months with covariate adjustments. (4) Results: A total of 267 participants, predominantly White (67%) and male (63%), were included, with a mean ± standard error age of 62 ± 0.5 years, baseline BMI of 30.2 ± 0.3 kg/m2, HbA1c of 7.08 ± 0.03%, and a c-PDS of 4.1 ± 0.3 points out of 25. Change in the c-PDS was significantly associated with a change in HbA1c (β: −0.04% per point, 95% CI: −0.07, −0.02, p = 0.001). A 7.5-point (30%) increase in the c-PDS was associated with a 0.3% reduction in HbA1c. Of the individual pillars, a 1-point change in nut and seeds intake (β: −0.07%, 95% CI: −0.12, −0.02, p = 0.009) or in plant protein intake (β: −0.11%, 95% CI: −0.18, −0.03, p = 0.009) was associated with a change in HbA1c. Further analysis of plant protein intake revealed that an increase in dietary pulse intake, a particularly low-GI food, was significantly associated with a reduction in HbA1c (β: −0.24% per 1-cup points cooked pulses (226 g) or 2 c-PDS points, 95% CI: −0.45, −0.03, p = 0.028). (5) Conclusions: Among adults living with T2DM, the Portfolio Diet was associated with lower HbA1c over a 6-month period, predominantly driven by two pillars: nuts and seeds and plant protein, particularly dietary pulses. These data have implications for including the Portfolio Diet in dietary recommendations for glycemic control in T2DM. A trial demonstrating the direct causal effect of the Portfolio Diet in a diverse group is warranted.
Alleviating Effect of Lipid Phytochemicals in Seed Oil (Brassica napus L.) on Oxidative Stress Injury Induced by H2O2 in HepG2 Cells via Keap1/Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathway
Authors: Peng Simin , Liao Luyan , Deng Huiqing , Liu Xudong , Lin Qian , Wu Weiguo
Published: August 2024

α-tocopherol (α-T), β-sitosterol (β-S), canolol (CA), and sinapic acid (SA) are the four main endogenous lipid phytochemicals (LP) found in Brassica napus L. seed oil, which possess the bioactivity to prevent the risk of several chronic diseases via antioxidant-associated mechanisms. Discovering the enhancer effects or synergies between LP is valuable for resisting oxidative stress and improving health benefits. The objectives of this study were to identify a potentially efficacious LP combination by central composite design (CCD) and cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) and to investigate its protective effect and potential mechanisms against H2O2-induced oxidative damage in HepG2 cells. Our results indicated that the optimal concentration of LP combination was α-T 10 μM, β-S 20 μM, SA 125 μM, and CA 125 μM, respectively, and its CAA value at the optimal condition was 10.782 μmol QE/100 g. At this concentration, LP combination exerted a greater amelioration effect on H2O2-induced HepG2 cell injury than either antioxidant (tea polyphenols or magnolol) alone. LP combination could reduce the cell apoptosis rate induced by H2O2, lowered to 10.06%, and could alleviate the degree of oxidative damage to cells (ROS↓), lipids (MDA↓), proteins (PC↓), and DNA (8-OHdG↓). Additionally, LP combination enhanced the antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, GPX, and HO-1), as well as the T-AOC, and increased the GSH level in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, LP combination markedly upregulated the expression of Nrf2 and its associated antioxidant proteins. It also increased the expression levels of Nrf2 downstream antioxidant target gene (HO-1, SOD-1, MnSOD, CAT, GPX-1, and GPX-4) and downregulated the mRNA expression levels of Keap1. The oxidative-stress-induced formation of the Keap1/Nrf2 complex in the cytoplasm was significantly blocked by LP treatment. These results indicate that LP combination protected HepG2 cells from oxidative stress through a mechanism involving the activation of the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathways.
The Influence of Maceration and Flavoring on the Composition and Health-Promoting Properties of Roasted Coffee
Authors: Grzelczyk Joanna , Budryn Grażyna , Kołodziejczyk Krzysztof , Ziętala Joanna
Published: August 2024

Over the years, many methods of refining green beans have been developed, including maceration aimed at enriching the coffee aroma and improving the overall quality. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of different methods of maceration (fruit and wine) and the addition of food flavors to coffee beans on antioxidant activity, caffeine, phenolic and organic acid content, as well as health-promoting properties. This research showed that the use of the maceration in melon and apple fruit pulp (100 g of fruit pulp per 100 g of green coffee, incubated for 24 h, coffee roasting at 230 °C, control trial roasted coffee) ensured the highest polyphenol (hydroxycinnamic acids and their esters—chlorogenic acids) content (in melon pulp—13.56 g/100 g d.b. (dry bean); in apple pulp—13.22 g/100 g d.b., p < 0.05 (one-way ANOVA)) and antioxidant activity. Melon (92.11%, IC50 = 3.80 mg/mL extract) and apple (84.55%, IC50 = 4.14 mg/mL) showed the highest α-amylase (enzyme concentration 10 μmol/mL) inhibition activity (0.5 mg/mL for both fruits). The addition of food flavors reduced the total content of chlorogenic acids to the range of 4.64 to 6.48 g/100 g d.b. and increased the content of acrylamide and 5-HMF, which positively correlated with a low antioxidant potential compared to the macerated samples and the control. Studies have shown that coffee macerated in the pulp of melon and apple fruit, due to its great potential to inhibit α-amylase in vivo, may have a preventive effect on type II diabetes. This study complements the current knowledge on the potential health-promoting properties of coffee flavored using different methods; further research should include more advanced models for testing these health-promoting properties. Statistical analysis was based on the determination of the average values of six measurements and their standard deviation, as well as on the one-way ANOVA (analysis of variation) and the Pearson correlation coefficient, using Statistic 10.0 software. The significance was defined at p ≤ 0.05.
Assessment of Sex-Specific Associations between Athletic Identity and Nutrition Habits in Competitive Youth Athletes
Authors: McGinley James J. , Hawkins Nolan D. , Morrison Taylor , Stapleton Emily , Gale Emily , Janosky Joseph , Ellis Henry B. , Ulman Sophia
Published: August 2024

Given the psychological aspects of sports nutrition, understanding one’s athletic identity (AI) may improve targeted nutrition education. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine nutrition habits and AI among uninjured youth athletes. Athletic Identity Measurement Scale (AIMS) and custom Sports Nutrition Assessment for Consultation (SNAC) scores collected prospectively at local sporting events were retrospectively assessed via Mann–Whitney, Kruskal–Wallis, logistic regression, and ANCOVA tests (95% CI). Among 583 athletes (14.5 ± 2.1 years; 59.9% female), the total AIMS scores did not differ by sex (males 39.9 ± 7.2; females 39.3 ± 7.5; maximum 70). The Social Identity (p = 0.009) and Exclusivity (p = 0.001) subscores were higher in males, while the Negative Affectivity subscores were lower (p = 0.019). Females reported frequent associations between SNAC and AIMS, particularly Negative Affectivity, which was positively associated with stress fracture history (p = 0.001), meal-skipping (p = 0.026), and desiring nutrition knowledge (p = 0.017). Males receiving weight recommendations reported higher Negative Affectivity subscores (p = 0.003), and higher total AIMS scores were observed in males with fatigue history (p = 0.004) and a desire for nutrition knowledge (p = 0.012). Fatigue and stress fracture history predominated in high-AI males and females, respectively, suggesting that poor sports nutrition may present differently by sex. As suboptimal nutrition was frequently related to high Negative Affectivity subscores, these habits may increase following poor sports performance.
Persistently Elevated C-Reactive Protein Levels and Low Body Mass Index Are Associated with a Lack of Improvement in Bone Mineral Density in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Koifman Eduard , Krasnopolsky Meytal , Ghersin Itai , Waterman Matti
Published: August 2024

Background: Osteoporosis prevalence is increased in Crohn’s disease (CD). Its pathogenesis in these patients is incompletely understood. Objectives: To identify factors associated with decreased bone mineral density (BMD) status in CD patients on a time-line course. Methods: A retrospective study was performed that followed CD patients who underwent at least two bone mineral density scans (DEXAs). Follow-up began one year prior to the first DEXA test and lasted at least one year after a second test. Possible correlations between baseline and follow-up variables and changes in BMD status were examined. Change in BMD was defined as a transition from one bone density category to another (normal vs. osteopenia vs. osteoporosis). Binary variables were assessed using the Cochrane–Armitage test. Categorical variables were assessed using the chi-squared test. A multivariate analysis was performed. Results: The study included 141 patients. At baseline, 33 patients (23.4%) had normal BMD, 75 (53.2%) had osteopenia, and 33 (23.4%) had osteoporosis. Patients with low BMD had a lower baseline BMI compared to those with normal BMD (p < 0.0001). After a median follow-up of 48 months (IQR 29–71), BMD status worsened in 19 (13.5%) patients, whereas in 95 (67.3%) and 27 (19.1%) patients, BMD remained unchanged or improved, respectively. On the multivariate analysis, elevated median CRP throughout follow-up (OR = 0.8, 95% CI: 0.68–0.93) and low baseline BMI (OR = 0.9, 95% CI: 0.83–0.98) were associated with a lack of BMD status improvement. Conclusions: Persistently elevated CRP and low BMI are associated with a lack of improvement in BMD. These findings underscore the importance of effective inflammation control and nutritional support to maintain and improve bone health.
Student Priorities for Topics, Pedagogies, and Outcomes in Senior Secondary Religious Education: An Australian Perspective
Authors: Sultmann William , Lamb Janeen , Ivers Peter , Craig Mark
Published: August 2024

This paper reports on one part of a larger longitudinal empirical study (2021–2023) that responds to the call for Religious Education (RE) to address religious plurality in the context of senior Catholic schooling within an Australian Archdiocese where students represent multiple faith traditions or no traditions. The research focuses on the level of satisfaction by students across Topics, Pedagogies, and Outcomes within a new and innovative senior school curriculum, Religion Meaning and Life (RML) based on national RE guidelines. Participants included 276 students across 17 schools who completed an online survey with 32 of these students participating in focus group interviews. Data analysis of quantitative data was both descriptive and inferential, and qualitative data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Topics of most interest were Ethics and Other World Religions; pedagogies entailing dialogue and use of media and technologies were rated highly; and learning outcomes entailed awareness of school mission, the religious dimension of the school, and pastoral care. Inferential statistical analyses confirm four core topics, pedagogies, and outcomes as significant to levels of satisfaction and in combination accounted for 42% of the variance of satisfaction with RML. Theoretical propositions for what matters most in senior secondary RE were advanced through four integrating principles (educational, formative, social, communitarian) and practice implications that preference Catholic tradition, and reference religious plurality.
Train Trajectory-Following Control Method Using Virtual Sensors
Authors: Huang Youpei , Ma Xiaoguang , Ren Lihui
Published: August 2024

Trajectory-following control is the basis for the practical application of an articulated virtual rail train transportation system. In this paper, a planar nonlinear dynamics model of an articulated vehicle is derived using the Euler–Lagrange method. A trajectory-following control strategy based on the first following point is proposed, and a feedback linearization control algorithm is designed based on the vehicle dynamics model to achieve the trajectory following of the rear vehicle. Based on the target trajectory formed by the first following point and measured by virtual sensors, a vector analysis method grounded in geometric relationships is proposed to solve in real time for the desired position, velocity, and acceleration of the vehicle. Finally, a MATLAB/SIMPACK dynamics virtual prototype is established to test the vehicle’s trajectory-following effectiveness and dynamics performance under lane change and circular curve routes. The results indicate that the control algorithm can achieve trajectory following while maintaining good vehicle dynamics performance. It is robust to variations in vehicle mass, vehicle speed, tire cornering stiffness, and road friction coefficient.
Maternal Insights into Bullying Types and Effective Interventions for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Jordanian Schools
Authors: Khamis Esra’ M. , AL Jabery Mohammad A.
Published: August 2024

Among children with special needs, those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are more susceptible to school bullying, due to communication challenges. In this study, the severity and types of school bullying, mainly physical, verbal, and social, experienced by children with ASD were identified and assessed from their mothers’ perspectives in Jordan. Additionally, the mothers’ levels of agreement with a set of anti-bullying interventions targeted at preventing bullying or attenuating its adverse consequences on children with ASD were evaluated. The results revealed that verbal and physical bullying were the most common types of school bullying experienced by children with ASD. Furthermore, the frequency of bullying has not been correlated to gender or school type; however, children in primary school experienced a higher frequency of school bullying. The results also revealed a set of proposed anti-bullying interventions that received a high level of agreement from the mothers. These interventions include arranging for various training sessions and programs targeted to children with ASD and their mothers to guide them on handling bullying and assigning specialists at schools to evaluate, monitor, and prevent bullying behaviors and support bullied students. Such interventions are considered promising opportunities for addressing school bullying among children with ASD.
Prediction of Dissolved Oxygen Factor at Oncheon Stream Watershed Using Long Short-Term Memory Algorithm
Authors: Lim Heesung , Shin Hyungjin , Lee Jaenam , Do Jongwon , Song Inhyeok , Jin Youngkyu
Published: August 2024

Rapid urbanization and industrialization have caused water quality issues in urban rivers. Appropriate measures based on water quality monitoring systems and prediction methods are needed for water quality management. While South Korea has operated a water quality monitoring system that measures various environmental factors and has accumulated water quality data, a water quality prediction system is not in place. This study suggests a water quality prediction method based on a long short-term model using water quality and meteorological monitoring data. Additionally, we present a derived input set of the prediction model that can improve the prediction model performance. The prediction model’s performance was evaluated by the coefficient of determination under various conditions, such as the hyperparameters, temporal resolution of input data, and application of upstream and downstream data. As a result, using the temporal resolution of the input data as hourly data improved predictions by an average of 25.6% over three days of the prediction period compared to daily data. Meanwhile, it was analyzed that the hyperparameters and using upstream and downstream data have a minor effect on the model performance. The results of this study underscore the crucial role of the number, duration, and temporal resolution of available monitoring data in water quality management.
Effect of Two Types of Wastewater Treatment Plants on Antibiotic Resistance of Fecal Coliform
Authors: Pérez-López María Elena , Miranda-Falcón Montserrat , Correa-Ramírez Miguel , Loredo-Treviño Araceli
Published: August 2024

The existence of fecal coliform microorganisms (FCs) resistant to antibiotics in the domestic wastewater of an urban and semi-urban locality was determined, along with the effect of two types of treatment plants for wastewater on the resistance of coliform, an aerated lagoon (AL) and a stabilization lagoon (SL). Samples were taken from the affluent and effluent of each treatment plant. FC content, pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, total solids, total volatile solids, and several types of ions were determined. Resistant FCs were quantified by plate count in bright green bile agar with ampicillin, amoxicillin, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, amikacin, gentamicin, cefixime and their mixtures. The isolated strains were evaluated against other antibiotics using antibiograms. The relationship between the variables was validated with an analysis of variance factorial design, and Fisher’s means test (α = 0.05) and Pearson’s correlation were used to establish it. The community that presented more resistant FCs was the urban one, but when the wastewater passed through the systems of AL and SL, this fact changed. The resistance of the FCs to ampicillin, amoxicillin, trimethoprim, sulfamethoxazole and cefixime was higher in the SL, with values of 67, 48, 2 and 25.8%, while those for the AL were 20, 13, 22 and 5.3%, respectively.
Assessing the Coordination Degree of Coupled Human–Water–Ecosystem in the Tarim River Basin of China
Authors: Li Mengqiao , Xu Jianhua , Chen Ruishan , Al-Ghamdi Abdullah Ahmed
Published: August 2024

To understand the current status of water resource utilization and explore the coordination degree of the coupled human–water–ecosystem in the Tarim River Basin, we used the water shortage rates and index of WUE to analyze the dynamic changes in water shortage and water use efficiency. We also applied the Gini coefficient to study the evolutionary trend of the degree of matching between water consumption and GDP in each sector. Based on the above analysis, we developed a human–water–ecosystem coupling coordination degree model incorporating various indicators relevant to the three subsystems to quantitatively assess the coupled and coordinated development status of the three subsystems of the human–water–ecosystem in the basin from 2004 to 2020. The main findings are as follows: (1) The Tarim River Basin suffers from water shortage in dry years, with a prominent supply–demand contradiction. In the severe drought years of 2009 and 2014, the water shortage rates reached 10.20% and 10.93%, respectively. (2) From 2004 to 2020, the Tarim River Basin’s water use efficiency (WUE), and its five prefectures showed a clear upward trend. On a multi-year average, Bayingol Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture had the highest WUE, while the Hotan region had the lowest. (3) The multi-year average value of the match between water consumption and GDP for the entire basin is 0.28. By industry, the primary industry’s match between water consumption and GDP is higher, while the secondary and tertiary industries have lower matches. (4) From 2004 to 2020, the coordination degree of coupled human–water–ecosystem in the five prefectures showed different degrees of upward trend, generally developing towards better coordination. In terms of multi-year averages, Bayingol Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, located in the east, has the highest degree of coupled coordination. Meanwhile, Hotan, in the south, lags significantly behind the remaining four regions. Therefore, the Tarim River Basin should further improve and optimize the development model of sustainable water resource use.
Nitrogen Removal from Polluted Water by an Integrated Constructed Wetland-Microbial Electrolysis Cell System
Authors: Zhang Ruina , Li Kexin , Yi Longqiang , Su Xin , Liu Changyuan , Rong Xinyu , Ran Haoxin , Wei Yingjie , Wan Li , Han Rui , Wu Yinghai
Published: August 2024

An integrated constructed wetland-microbial electrolysis cell (ICW-MEC) system was investigated for nitrogen removal under different pollution loads, hydraulic loads (HLRs), and aeration conditions. The treatment performance of each unit and the microbial community characteristics for nitrogen removal were elucidated. The results showed that, on average, 80% of NH4+-N, around 70% of nitrate nitrogen (NO3−-N), and 70% of total nitrogen (TN) were removed by the system under three pollution loads, with less influence by pollution loads. The high removal efficiencies of NH4+-N (81.8%), NO3−-N (71.4%), and TN (72.8%) indicated tolerable to high HLRs. The intermittent aeration negatively affected NH4+-N removal, while increasing NO3−-N and TN removals by 3.2–13.0% and 3.7–16.7%. The contribution efficiencies of the secondary unit to the removal of NH4+-N, NO3−-N, TN, and total organic carbon (TOC) reached 47.4%, 55.0%, 45.9%, and 38.8%, respectively. The distinct microbial communities existed in various units of the ICW-MEC system, which were strongly affected by environmental factors and shaped by diverse fillers and structures of the system. The dominant bacteria contributed to the efficient nitrogen removal performance of the ICW-MEC system. The three units exerted their advantages to ensure efficient and stable system operation.
Distribution and Composition of Beach Litter along the Ionian Coastline of Albania
Authors: Fernández-Enríquez Alfredo , Anfuso Giorgio , Asensio-Montesinos Francisco , Bakaj Aurora , Ismailaj Mariola , Cobaj Geolind
Published: August 2024

This paper deals with beach litter presence on the Ionian coast of Albania, i.e., at Vlora Bay and the Albanian Riviera, which is the most famous coastal tourist destination in the country. Along 16 beaches surveyed in November–December 2022 was found a total amount of 6621 litter items (or 416 kg) belonging to 114 categories of the EU J−code list. Most of these were plastic fragments and items (82%), mainly linked to local tourist activities. Wastewaters were responsible for bringing different litter items to the urban beaches of Vlora Bay. The most commonly observed litter items were cigarette butts, plastic caps/lids, and medium-sized plastic fragments of non-foamed plastic. The cleanest beaches, quite often, were the ones where beach clubs implemented clean-up programs during and at the end of the summer season. The results of this paper constitute a baseline of the beach litter amount and content along the study coast, which has never been investigated before. Municipalities and beach clubs have to implement more frequent and efficient clean-up activities and educational initiatives to reduce beach pollution, with special attention paid to the presence of cigarette butts and other small plastic items.
The Formation Mechanism of Soil Interflow in Loess Hill Gully
Authors: Lei Na , Han Jichang , Zhang Yang , Sun Zenghui , Li Yanan , Xia Liheng
Published: August 2024

To address the problems of salinization of the soil in gully control and land-making projects, the formation mechanism of soil interflow from a gully valley on the Loess Plateau was investigated, regarding its interface, water source, and spatial-temporal distribution characteristics, through field location monitoring and isotope tracer technique. The results showed the following: (1) there are two types of soil interflow in the Loess Plateau, namely soil interflow in slope and in gully, with interflow in gully being the main form; (2) adequate water supply, layered soil structure, and geographic disparity are conditions for the formation of soil interflow in the gully; (3) soil water is recharged by precipitation, surface water, and groundwater. Surface water is an important source of soil water recharge at the 0–100 cm depth, whereas groundwater is an important source of soil water recharge at the 100–200 cm depth. The results provide a basis for the regulation of the soil interflow, resource utilization, and land quality improvement in the Loess Plateau.
Effects of Dry Periods on Nitrogen and Phosphorus Removal in Runoff Infiltration Devices and Their Biological Succession Patterns
Authors: He Tian , Xue Chonghua , Li Junqi , Wang Wenhai , Du Xiaoli , Gong Yongwei , Zhao Yimeng , Liang Manman , Ren Yaxin
Published: August 2024

When using runoff infiltration devices to remove nitrogen and phosphorus pollutants from urban runoff, the quality of the effluent is affected by the length of dry spells between rain events. This study presents a novel analysis of how these dry periods impact the device’s effectiveness in removing pollutants and the resulting biological succession within the filter. Our analysis examines nitrogen and phosphorus removal in a rainwater filtration context, providing new insights into how dry period duration influences infiltration system performance. The results indicate that biological processes have a significant impact on reducing total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) contents under different drying periods. A 3-day drying period is most effective for reducing TN through biological processes, while a 7-day period is best for TP reduction. This suggests that moderately extending the drying period improves TP removal efficiency but does not enhance TN removal. The dominant bacterial phylum responsible for denitrification and phosphorus removal is Proteobacteria, with Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter as the leading genera. As the drying period lengthens, the dominant genera shift from Pseudomonas to Massilia. At a 3-day drying period, denitrification primarily occurs through Pseudomonas on the surfaces of maifanite and zeolite. At a 7-day dry-out period, Acinetobacter is mainly responsible for phosphate removal on maifanite surfaces. However, after a 14-day dry-out period, both biomass and bioactivity of Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter decrease, leading to reduced efficiency in removing nitrogen and phosphorus pollutants from runoff infiltration devices. These results aid in developing runoff infiltration devices for specific scenarios and offer crucial guidance for regulating runoff pollution control technologies.
Las actitudes hacia el aprendizaje en estudiantes de educación inconclusa: Una estrategia para su fortalecimiento
Authors: Rodríguez Laz Jorge Bryan , Rodríguez Álava Leonor Alexandra
Published: August 2024

En la práctica cotidiana del proceso de enseñanza- aprendizaje, se encuentran múltiples necesidades que son temas de debates en los diversos escenarios; uno de ellos está relacionado con los comportamientos de los actores de este proceso: estudiantes y docentes, en este caso los estudiantes de educación inconclusa que ponen de manifiesto actitudes que pueden entorpecer el logro de las metas educativas. En este estudio de diseño no experimental, de alcance descriptivo y de enfoque mixto, se planteó como objetivo diseñar una estrategia de aprendizaje colaborativo motivacional mediado por las TIC para mejorar las actitudes el aprendizaje de los estudiantes de Educación Inconclusa de la Unidad Educativa Fiscal Bahía de Manta. Se contó con la participación de estudiantes de Bachillerato a quienes se les aplicó una Escala para medir actitudes hacia la escuela y el aprendizaje; también se aplicó una entrevista semiestructurada a los docentes participantes. Entre los resultados se aprecia que los estudiantes se sienten motivados hacia el aprendizaje y a terminar su escolaridad; sin embargo, manifiestan actitudes de poca motivación hacia la institución y requieren mayor apoyo de docentes y compañeros de clases, por su parte, los docentes están conscientes de las necesidades educativas de los estudiantes; sin embargo, resaltan que existen ciertos factores como el combinar estudios con el trabajo y las responsabilidades familiares que intensifican su desfase escolar. Se concluye que el trabajo colaborativo y la utilización de la tecnología considerados en la estrategia que se presenta como propuesta, servirán de apoyo para el logro de aprendizaje significativos en los estudiantes.