bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative coarse graining of laminar fluid flow penetration in rough boundaries
Authors: Majhi Akankshya , Kool Lars , van der Gucht Jasper , Dijksman Joshua A.
Published: March 2024

The interaction between a fluid and a wall is described with a certain boundary condition for the fluid velocity at the wall. To understand how fluids behave near a rough wall in a completely laminar flow regime, the fluid velocity at every point on the rough surface may be provided. This approach requires detailed knowledge of, and likely depends strongly on the roughness. Another approach of modelling the boundary conditions of a rough wall is to coarse grain and extract a penetration depth over which on average the fluid penetrates into the roughness. In this work, we examine the impact of well-defined patterned surfaces on the fluid flow behaviour. We considered two extreme cases: one with horizontal ridges and another with vertical ridges on the wall and an intermediate case with ridges at an angle on the wall. We show that for a broad range of periodic roughness patterns and relative flow velocities, a universal penetration depth function can be obtained. We obtain these results with experiments and complementary numerical simulations. We evaluate how this penetration depth depends on the various roughness parameters such as ridge depth, ridge spacing and ridge angle. Our results present a novel approach to investigating wall roughness boundary conditions by considering the penetration depth δ that captures the spatially averaged behaviour of the decaying velocity profile between the asperities. We find that this penetration depth δ can be rescaled into a simple exponential master curve δ = δ∞(1 − e−kD/S) for horizontal ridges with varying depth D and spacing S. A similar variation of δ with D and S is observed for vertical ridges, but with a smaller magnitude δ∞, while for ridges at an angle, the penetration depth lies between the two extreme cases.
The regulatory role of m6A methylation modification in metabolic syndrome pathogenesis and progression
Authors: Ye Diwen , Zhang Yongjiao , Zhang Bingyang , Liu Junjun , Wei Tianshu , Lu Sumei
Published: March 2024

Metabolic syndromes are characterized by various complications caused by disrupted glucose and lipid metabolism, which are major factors affecting the health of a population. However, existing diagnostic and treatment strategies have limitations, such as the lack of early diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, variability in patient responses to treatment, and cost-effectiveness. Therefore, developing alternative solutions for metabolic syndromes is crucial. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is one of the most abundant modifications that determine the fate of RNA. m6A modifications are closely associated with metabolic syndrome development and present novel prospects for clinical applications. Aberrant m6A modifications have been detected during inflammatory infiltration, apoptosis, autophagy, iron sagging, necrosis, and scorching during metabolic syndrome pathogenesis and progression. However, few reviews have systematically described the correlation between m6A modifications and these factors concerning metabolic syndrome pathogenesis and progression. This study summarizes the m6A methylation regulators and their roles in metabolic syndrome development, highlighting the potential of m6A modification as a biomarker in metabolic disorders.
Exploring neonicotinoid effects on Drosophila: insights into olfactory memory, neurotransmission, and synaptic connectivity
Authors: Schulz Julia , Franz Hanna R. , Deimel Stephan H. , Widmann Annekathrin
Published: March 2024

Neonicotinoid insecticides, the fastest-growing class in recent decades, interfere with cholinergic neurotransmission by binding to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. This disruption affects both targeted and non-targeted insects, impairing cognitive functions such as olfaction and related behaviors, with a particular emphasis on olfactory memory due to its ecological impact. Despite the persistent presence of these chemicals in the environment, significant research gaps remain in understanding the intricate interplay between cognitive function, development, neuronal activity, and neonicotinoid-induced toxicity. This study focuses on the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, chosen for its genetic tractability, well-characterized neural circuitry, and remarkable parallels with bees in neurotransmitter systems and brain structures. Our aim is to establish the fruit fly as a valuable model organism for studying the effects of neonicotinoids on behavior and neuronal circuitry, with particular attention to olfactory memory and associated brain circuitries. To achieve this aim, we conducted experiments to investigate the effects of short-term exposure to sublethal doses of the neonicotinoid imidacloprid, mimicking realistic environmental insecticide exposure, on the formation of odor memories. Additionally, we evaluated synaptic contacts and cholinergic neurotransmission within the mushroom body, the primary memory network of insects. Our results showed significant impairments in odor memory formation in flies exposed to imidacloprid, with exposure during the adult stage showing more pronounced effects than exposure during the larval stage. Additionally, functional studies revealed a decrease in synaptic contacts within the intrinsic olfactory projection neurons and the mushroom body. Furthermore, another experiment showed an odor-dependent reduction in cholinergic neurotransmission within this network. In summary, employing Drosophila as a model organism provides a robust framework for investigating neonicotinoid effects and understanding their diverse impacts on insect physiology and behavior. Our study initiates the establishment of the fruit fly as a pivotal model for exploring neonicotinoid influences, shedding light on their effects on olfactory memory, neuronal integrity, and synaptic transmission.
Optimizing tomato seedling growth with indigenous mangrove bacterial inoculants and reduced NPK fertilization
Authors: Tounsi-Hammami Soumaya , Khan Munawwar Ali , Zeb Aroosa , Anwar Aneesa Rasheed , Arora Naman , Naseem Muhammad , Mundra Sunil
Published: March 2024

The search for ecofriendly products to reduce crop dependence on synthetic chemical fertilizers presents a new challenge. The present study aims to isolate and select efficient native PGPB that can reduce reliance on synthetic NPK fertilizers. A total of 41 bacteria were isolated from the sediment and roots of mangrove trees (Avicennia marina) and assessed for their PGP traits under in vitro conditions. Of them, only two compatible strains of Bacillus species were selected to be used individually and in a mix to promote tomato seedling growth. The efficiency of three inoculants applied to the soil was assessed in a pot experiment at varying rates of synthetic NPK fertilization (0, 50, and 100% NPK). The experiment was set up in a completely randomized design with three replications. Results showed that the different inoculants significantly increased almost all the studied parameters. However, their effectiveness is strongly linked to the applied rate of synthetic fertilization. Applying bacterial inoculant with only 50% NPK significantly increased the plant height (44-51%), digital biomass (60-86%), leaf area (77-87%), greenness average (29-36%), normalized difference vegetation index (29%), shoot dry weight (82-92%) and root dry weight (160-205%) compared to control plants. Concerning the photosynthetic activity, this treatment showed a positive impact on the concentrations of chlorophyll a (25-31%), chlorophyll b (34-39%), and carotenoid (45-49%). Interestingly, these increases ensured the highest values significantly similar to or higher than those of control plants given 100% NPK. Furthermore, the highest accumulation of N, P, K, Cu, Fe, Zn, and Ca in tomato shoots was recorded in plants inoculated with the bacterial mix at 50% NPK. It was proven for the first time that the native PGP bacteria derived from mangrove plant species A. marina positively affects the quality of tomato seedlings while reducing 50% NPK.
Inversion of winter wheat leaf area index from UAV multispectral images: classical vs. deep learning approaches
Authors: Zu Jiaxing , Yang Hailong , Wang Jiali , Cai Wenhua , Yang Yuanzheng
Published: March 2024

Precise and timely leaf area index (LAI) estimation for winter wheat is crucial for precision agriculture. The emergence of high-resolution unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) data and machine learning techniques offers a revolutionary approach for fine-scale estimation of wheat LAI at the low cost. While machine learning has proven valuable for LAI estimation, there are still model limitations and variations that impede accurate and efficient LAI inversion. This study explores the potential of classical machine learning models and deep learning model for estimating winter wheat LAI using multispectral images acquired by drones. Initially, the texture features and vegetation indices served as inputs for the partial least squares regression (PLSR) model and random forest (RF) model. Then, the ground-measured LAI data were combined to invert winter wheat LAI. In contrast, this study also employed a convolutional neural network (CNN) model that solely utilizes the cropped original image for LAI estimation. The results show that vegetation indices outperform the texture features in terms of correlation analysis with LAI and estimation accuracy. However, the highest accuracy is achieved by combining both vegetation indices and texture features to invert LAI in both conventional machine learning methods. Among the three models, the CNN approach yielded the highest LAI estimation accuracy (R2 = 0.83), followed by the RF model (R2 = 0.82), with the PLSR model exhibited the lowest accuracy (R2 = 0.78). The spatial distribution and values of the estimated results for the RF and CNN models are similar, whereas the PLSR model differs significantly from the first two models. This study achieves rapid and accurate winter wheat LAI estimation using classical machine learning and deep learning methods. The findings can serve as a reference for real-time wheat growth monitoring and field management practices.
Being a heritage speaker matters: the role of markedness in subject-verb person agreement in Italian
Authors: Di Pisa Grazia , Pereira Soares Sergio Miguel , Rothman Jason , Marinis Theodoros
Published: March 2024

This study examines online processing and offline judgments of subject-verb person agreement with a focus on how this is impacted by markedness in heritage speakers (HSs) of Italian. To this end, 54 adult HSs living in Germany and 40 homeland Italian speakers completed a self-paced reading task (SPRT) and a grammaticality judgment task (GJT). Markedness was manipulated by probing agreement with both first-person (marked) and third-person (unmarked) subjects. Agreement was manipulated by crossing first-person marked subjects with third-person unmarked verbs and vice versa. Crucially, person violations with 1st person subjects (e.g., io *suona la chitarra “I plays-3rd-person the guitar”) yielded significantly shorter RTs in the SPRT and higher accuracy in the GJT than the opposite error type (e.g., il giornalista *esco spesso “the journalist go-1st-person out often”). This effect is consistent with the claim that when the first element in the dependency is marked (first person), the parser generates stronger predictions regarding upcoming agreeing elements. These results nicely align with work from the same populations investigating the impact of morphological markedness on grammatical gender agreement, suggesting that markedness impacts agreement similarly in two distinct grammatical domains and that sensitivity to markedness is more prevalent for HSs.
Metaphors of adolescence during COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed-method analysis in relation to well-being and alexithymia
Authors: Farina Eleonora , Pepe Alessandro
Published: March 2024

Introduction

During the pandemic, young people experienced a general increase in stress levels in their home and school environments and in their relationships with peers and family, largely due to restrictions on freedom of movement and social isolation. The ability to identify sources of stress and respond positively to them, using both personal and environmental resources, seems to be key to maintaining an acceptable level of well-being. This study investigates the association between alexithymic traits, self-perceived well-being, and self-representations in adolescents as expressed via narrative metaphors during the COVID-19 epidemic.

Methods

The sample comprised 229 Italian adolescents (51.1% females, mean age = 16.64). The research design was based on an exploratory, parallel, mixed-method approach. A semi-structured online interview was used as the major data gathering tool including both standardized quantitative questionnaire and open-ended questions. Data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics, quantitative textual analysis and multidimensional co-word correspondence analysis.

Results

Main findings reveal a general low level of perceived well-being associated with alexithymia, affecting adolescents’ lexical choices for their metaphors. Alexithymia-related low levels of well-being correspond to metaphors in which confusion and overpowering emotions predominate. Vivid pictures indicating vitality and a bright view on the future is often correlated with high levels of well-being.

Discussion

Overall, these novel findings appear to show an interactive effect of perceived well-being and alexithymia on adolescents’ ability to identify and describe their own condition. Furthermore, metaphors emerge as powerful tools for investigating well-being in adolescents since closely related to inner states.
Factors associated with prolonged COVID-related PTSD-like symptoms among adults diagnosed with mild COVID-19 in Poland
Authors: Elkayam Sapir , Łojek Emilia , Sękowski Marcin , Żarnecka Dominika , Egbert Anna , Wyszomirska Julia , Hansen Karolina , Malinowska Ewa , Cysique Lucette , Marcopulos Bernice , Gawron Natalia , Sobańska Marta , Gambin Małgorzata , Holas Paweł , Pluta Agnieszka , Hyniewska Sylwia
Published: March 2024

COVID-19 has been considered a possible cause of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or similar conditions. However, what specific disease symptoms may contribute most to prolonged PTSD-like symptoms in COVID-19 survivors is unclear. The study aimed to present the factor structure of COVID-19 symptoms and identify which symptoms of COVID-19 best explain the subsequent presence of PTSD-like symptoms in mild COVID-19 survivors. COVID-positive adults (n = 341) completed online self-report scales at the baseline assessment (T1) and after approximately 4 months (T2), including The Patient Health Questionnaire Anxiety-Depression Scale; The Scale of Psychosocial Experience Related to COVID-19, The Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5; and self-designed questionnaires evaluating the severity of COVID-related medical and neurocognitive symptoms and pre-pandemic variables. Exploratory factor analysis revealed five factors of COVID-19 symptoms: flu-like, respiratory, cold, neurological, and neurocognitive. Hierarchical logistic regression showed that besides selected control variables (anxiety and depression, presence of PTSD-like symptoms, COVID-related stigma in T1), neurocognitive symptoms of COVID-19 in T1 but not other symptoms of the disease were a significant predictor of the presence of PTSD-like symptom in T2. Findings suggest a need for a comprehensive neurocognitive assessment of people diagnosed with COVID-19 and prompt interventions targeting the prevention of potential risks for long-term PTSD-like states at the community level.
Prospective associations of family conflict with alcohol expectancies in the adolescent brain cognitive development study: effects of race and ethnicity
Authors: Bristol Skye C. , Johnson Micah E. , Thompson Wesley K. , Albaugh Matthew , Potter Alexandra , Garavan Hugh , Allgaier Nicholas , Ivanova Masha Y.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Alcohol expectancies predict subsequent alcohol use and related problems among adolescents, although predictors of alcohol expectancies remain unclear. This study examined the longitudinal association between family conflict, a sociocultural factor strongly implicated in adolescent alcohol use, and positive and negative alcohol expectancies of adolescents of diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds.

Methods

Data were from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study 4.0 release, a multisite longitudinal study (N = 6,231, baseline age 9–10). Linear mixed-effects regression, with interactions between race/ethnicity and family conflict, tested the association between family conflict and alcohol expectancies, for each racial/ethnicity (e.g., Black vs. non-Black; White vs. non-White).

Results

Interactions of family conflict with race/ethnicity in predicting negative and positive alcohol expectancies were statistically significant for models testing Black and White adolescents, but not for Asian, Hispanic, and Other. Family conflict at baseline predicted lower negative alcohol expectancy for Black adolescents (B = −.166, p = 0.033) and positive alcohol expectancy for White adolescents (B = 0.71, p = 0.023) at the year 3 follow-up. All models controlled for sex, age, family socioeconomic status, alcohol expectancies at year 1, and family conflict at year 3.

Conclusion

The results indicate that family conflict is a potential risk factor for problematic alcohol expectancies for Black and White adolescents. Although we did not directly compare Black and White adolescents, our findings indicate that family conflict may operate differently for Black and White adolescents. Prevention and intervention efforts targeting family conflict may be relevant for different aspects of alcohol expectancies in Black and White families.
Social perceptions and the stigmatization towards fifteen mental illnesses in France: a preliminary study on the role of vital force and burden
Authors: Dambrun Michael , Marinho Gaétan , Mondillon Laurie , Clinchamps Maélys , Dutheil Frédéric , Chakroun Nadia , Teissedre Frédérique , Motak Ladislav , Corman Maya , Cuchet Isabelle , Fargheot Juliette , Izaute Marie , Daugherty Julia , de la Sablonnière Roxane , Lindsay Brittany L. , Szeto Andrew C. H.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

This study examined social perceptions and rejection towards fifteen mental illnesses, as well as a preliminary test of the SUBAR model, that hypothesized perceptions of both vital forces and burden would be negatively and positively related to social rejection, respectively.

Methods

Using an online survey with participants from France (n = 952), social rejection was assessed using a feeling thermometer and a social distance scale, while social perceptions were measured using visual analog scales.

Results

A stigma map for these different disorders is drawn up, revealing the social perceptions and levels of stigmatization specific to certain mental illnesses. Controlling for relevant social perceptions (i.e., danger, warmth, competence), we found that perception of burden was positively and significantly associated to social distance and negative feeling for 73% and 67% of mental illnesses, respectively. The perception of vital force was negatively and significantly related to social distance and negative feeling for 87% and 20% of mental illnesses, respectively. The change in R2 between model 1 (i.e. perception of danger, warmth, competence) and model 2 (i.e. model 1 + perceptions of vital force and burden) significantly improved in 100% of cases for social distance and 67% of cases for negative feeling.

Conclusion

These preliminary data provide support for the SUBAR model and call for further investigations to better understand the social rejection of people with mental illnesses.
Former smoking, but not active smoking, is associated with delirium in postoperative ICU patients: a matched case-control study
Authors: Komninou Maria Angeliki , Egli Simon , Rossi Aurelio , Ernst Jutta , Krauthammer Michael , Schuepbach Reto A. , Delgado Marcos , Bartussek Jan
Published: March 2024

Objective

To examine the relationship between current and former smoking and the occurrence of delirium in surgical Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients.

Methods

We conducted a single center, case-control study involving 244 delirious and 251 non-delirious patients that were admitted to our ICU between 2018 and 2022. Using propensity score analysis, we obtained 115 pairs of delirious and non-delirious patients matched for age and Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (SAPS II). Both groups of patients were further stratified into non-smokers, active smokers and former smokers, and logistic regression was performed to further investigate potential confounders.

Results

Our study revealed a significant association between former smoking and the incidence of delirium in ICU patients, both in unmatched (adjusted odds ratio (OR): 1.82, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.17-2.83) and matched cohorts (OR: 3.0, CI: 1.53-5.89). Active smoking did not demonstrate a significant difference in delirium incidence compared to non-smokers (unmatched OR = 0.98, CI: 0.62-1.53, matched OR = 1.05, CI: 0.55-2.0). Logistic regression analysis of the matched group confirmed former smoking as an independent risk factor for delirium, irrespective of other variables like surgical history (p = 0.010). Notably, also respiratory and vascular surgeries were associated with increased odds of delirium (respiratory: OR: 4.13, CI: 1.73-9.83; vascular: OR: 2.18, CI: 1.03-4.59). Medication analysis showed that while Ketamine and Midazolam usage did not significantly correlate with delirium, Morphine use was linked to a decreased likelihood (OR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.13-0.55).

Discussion

Nicotine’s complex neuropharmacological impact on the brain is still not fully understood, especially its short-term and long-term implications for critically ill patients. Although our retrospective study cannot establish causality, our findings suggest that smoking may induce structural changes in the brain, potentially heightening the risk of postoperative delirium. Intriguingly, this effect seems to be obscured in active smokers, potentially due to the recognized neuroprotective properties of nicotine. Our results motivate future prospective studies, the results of which hold the potential to substantially impact risk assessment procedures for surgeries.
Factors associated with workplace violence against Chinese healthcare workers: an online cross-sectional survey
Authors: Xiao Yu , Chen Ting-ting , Zhu Shao-yi , Li Chun-ya , Zong Ling
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Workplace violence (WPV) against healthcare workers (HCWs) has reached significant levels globally, impeding the quality and accessibility of healthcare systems. However, there is limited available knowledge regarding the determinants linked with WPV among HCWs and the discrepancies observed across various levels of hospitals in China. The objective of the present research was to investigate the factors linked to WPV and job satisfaction among HCWs in China.

Methods

A self-developed questionnaire based on WeChat was employed to collect data. The questionnaire consisted of demographic information as well as occupational factors. To measure WPV, the Chinese version of the Workplace Violence Scale was utilized. Career satisfaction was assessed through two questions regarding career choices. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive analyses, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regressions.

Results

A total of 3,781 valid questionnaires (1,029 doctors and 2,752 nurses) were collected. Among all participants, 2,201 (58.2%) reported experiencing at least one form of WPV in the past year, with emotional abuse being the most frequent occurrence (49.7%), followed by threats (27.9%). The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed several risk factors associated with WPV, including male gender, shift work, senior professional title, bachelor’s degree education, employment in secondary-level hospitals, and working over 50 h per week (p < 0.05). Career satisfaction among HCWs who experienced high levels of WPV was low, with only 11.2% remaining confident in their profession, and a mere 2.0% supporting their children pursuing careers in healthcare.

Conclusion

WPV poses a significant challenge within the Chinese healthcare system. Efforts should be made to address the identified risk factors and promote a safe and satisfying working environment for HCWs.
Food and nutrition security definitions, constructs, frameworks, measurements, and applications: global lessons
Authors: Pérez-Escamilla Rafael
Published: March 2024

Food security (FS) is a powerful social determinant of health (SDOH) and is crucial for human and planetary health. The objectives of this article are to (i) provide clarity on the definitions of FS and nutrition security; (ii) provide a framework that clearly explains the links between the two constructs; (iii) summarize measurement approaches, and (iv) illustrate applications to monitoring and surveillance, policy and program design and evaluation, and research, mainly based on the ongoing rich experience with food insecurity (FI) scales. A clear and concise definition of FI and corresponding frameworks are available. There are different methods for directly or indirectly assessing FI. The best method(s) of choice need to be selected based on the questions asked, resources, and time frames available. Experience-based FI measures disseminated from the United States to the rest of the world in the early 2000s became a game changer for advancing FI research, policy, program evaluation, and governance. The success with experience FI scales is informing the dissemination, adaptation, and validation of water insecurity scales globally. The many lessons learned across countries on how to advance policy and program design and evaluation through improved FS conceptualization and measurement should be systematically shared through networks of researchers and practitioners.
Comparative analysis of spatial ability in immersive and non-immersive virtual reality: the role of sense of presence, simulation sickness and cognitive load
Authors: Thorp Sebastian Oltedal , Rimol Lars Morten , Lervik Simon , Evensmoen Hallvard Røe , Grassini Simone
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the effects of immersion on spatial ability in virtual reality (VR) and the influence of sense of presence, simulation sickness, and cognitive load. Participants performed a spatial ability task using a head-mounted display in an immersive or non-immersive VR condition. Contrary to expectations, immersive VR did not enhance spatial performance compared to non-immersive VR. Interestingly, cognitive load was positively associated with spatial ability in immersive VR but negatively associated with it in non-immersive VR. A higher sense of presence was associated with increased spatial ability for both conditions. Predictably, simulation sickness negatively impacted spatial ability in the more immersive condition. Sense of presence and simulation sickness correlated in the immersive condition but not in the non-immersive condition, indicating the importance of immersion as a covariate. These findings highlight a complex interplay of factors in immersive environments, challenging existing assumptions and providing insights for designing spatial environments in immersive and non-immersive virtual environments.
Posterior helyreállítások: direkt módon ORMOCER-rel és indirekt CAD/CAM eljárással, nanohibrid kompozit tömbből
Authors: Daubner Roland Róbert , Vág János
Published: March 2024

A kompozitok olyan összetett anyagok, melyek jelentős fejlődésen mentek keresztül az elmúlt évtizedekben. A töltőanyagszemcseméretének változtatásán túl a gyártói fejlesztések a rezin mátrix módosítását is megcélozták. Ilyen ígéretes fejlesztésnektekinthetők az ORMOCER-ek is, melyek nevüket az Organikusan Módosított Kerámiák kifejezés rövidítésébőlkapták. Egyediségük abban rejlik, hogy a rezin mátrix vázát a szervetlen -Si-O-Si kötés adja, ehhez kapcsolódnak anagy molekulatömegű szerves telítetlen oldalcsoportok. Az Admira Fusion (VOCO, Németország) egy olyan ORMOCERtechnológián alapuló kompozit, melyben a fent említett kémiai újítás mellett a nanohibrid töltőanyag is teljes mértékbenszilanizált, ezért a -Si-O-Si-kötés fogja képezni a tömőanyag teljes vázát. Egyedi kémiai szerkezetének köszönhetőennem tartalmaz bis-GMA monomereket, kimagasló a biokompatibilitása, alacsony a zsugorodása (1,25%) és széles a felhasználásiterülete. Az esetprezentációban a posterior régió egy premolaris és molaris fogának direkt és indirekt ellátásakerül bemutatásra. A #45 gyökérkezelt fog végleges ellátását a szomszédos #46 töméscseréje előzte meg, ahol azAdmira Fusion kompozitcsaláddal, valamint a Final Touch (VOCO, Németország) karakterizáló rendszerrel anatómikus,élethű restauráció lett kialakítva. Ezt követően CAD-CAM technológia segítségével a #45 fog egy nanohibrid Grandio(VOCO, Németország) betéttel lett ellátva. Összességében az ORMOCER technológia egy megbízható, biokompatibilis,alacsony zsugorodással rendelkező alternatívát jelent a hagyományos kompozitokkal szemben. A nanohibrid Grandiotömbök pedig törésálló, esztétikus indirekt resturátumok előállítására alkalmasak.
Soil Ecoenzymatic Stoichiometry Reveals Microbial Metabolic Limitations in Apple Orchards with Cover Crop and Organic Fertilizer Incorporation
Authors: Cai Shibiao , Zheng Bangyu , Zhao Zhiyuan , Zheng Zhaoxia , Yang Na , Zhai Bingnian
Published: March 2024

Understanding the stoichiometry of extracellular enzymes in soil, particularly in relation to nutrient acquisition (e.g., carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus), provides valuable insights into microorganisms’ resource requirements. This study investigates the metabolic constraints of soil microorganisms in response to different growth stages of apple trees under various soil management practices. A 14-year long-term experiment with a split-plot design was conducted, where the main plots received different cover crop treatments (bare vs. cover crop), and subplots were subjected to four fertilizer treatments (CK, M, NPK, MNPK). The significant main and interactive effects of cover crops, fertilizer treatment, and growth period on soil nutrients were observed (p < 0.001). Both cover crop and fertilizer treatments significantly increased the soil organic matter content, with implications for orchard resilience to drought. However, the cover factor alone did not notably influence soil carbon–nitrogen ratios or microbial communities. Microbial carbon limitations were driven by soil water dynamics and microbial biomass, while microbial phosphorus limitations were closely linked to total nitrogen levels. The results underscore the combination of cover crops and MNPK fertilizer-enhanced soil nutrient levels and enzyme activities, mitigating microbial carbon and phosphorus limitations. These findings suggest practical strategies for optimizing fertilization practices to improve soil fertility and address nutrient constraints in orchard ecosystems.
Progesterone-Related Diabetes Mellitus in the Bitch: Current Knowledge, the Role of Pyometra, and Relevance in Practice
Authors: Pöppl Álan Gomes , Lopes José Lucas Xavier , Nogueira Taís Bock , da Silva Denise Iparraguirre , Machado Bruna dos Santos
Published: March 2024

Progesterone-related diabetes mellitus (PRDM) in dogs is known for its particular potential for diabetes remission. This narrative review aims to provide relevant detailed information on (1) the canine estrus cycle and its impact on canine diabetes mellitus (CDM) etiology and management, (2) the role of pyometra as a further cause of insulin resistance, and (3) useful individual therapeutic and preventive strategies. PRDM is recognized due to diestrus, exogenous progestogen exposure, pregnancy, and P4-production ovarian dysfunction. Pyometra represents additional inflammatory and septic negative influence on insulin sensitivity, and its diagnosis associated with CDM is therapeutically challenging. The estrus cycle’s hormone fluctuations seem to modulate peripheric insulin sensibility by influencing insulin receptor (IR) affinity and its binding capacity, as well as modulating tyrosine kinase activity. Pyometra was shown to negatively influence IR compensatory mechanisms to insulin resistance causing glucose intolerance. Spaying and pregnancy termination may cause diabetes remission in PRDM cases in a median time of 10 days (1–51). Pharmacological annulment of progesterone effects may benefit patients unable to undergo surgery; however, remission chances are virtually null. The ALIVE (Agreeing Language in Veterinary Endocrinology) project proposed new criteria for CDM diagnoses and subclinical diabetes recognition. These new concepts may increase the frequency of a PRDM diagnosis and, even more, its relevance. Spaying represents a preventive measure against pyometra and PRDM that should be individually assessed in light of its recognized benefits and harms.
Bioaerosol Emission from Vortex Liquids Contaminated with Escherichia coli Bacteria
Authors: Shafiq Maheen , Agranovski Igor E.
Published: March 2024

Vortex fluids are often present in natural and artificial aquatic environments and are also widely used in industrial water treatment and product manufacturing processes. Vortex processes have been studied quite extensively; however, little attention has been paid to the potential release of biological aerosols to the ambient air in common situations involving microbial-contaminated vortex liquids. The model organism was Escherichia coli, a common Gram-negative coliform bacterium widely present in the aquatic and air environments. This study examines the influence of various parameters, including liquid rotation speed, column height, temperature, surface tension and vessel size, on the rate of bioaerosol formation. A commonly used single-stage bioaerosol impactor was employed to collect microbial aerosols at different process parameters under controlled laboratory conditions. The main results show that bioaerosol production increases markedly with increasing rotation speed, reaching a maximum rate at the highest value used in this project (1300 rpm). The tallness of the liquid column is strongly responsible for the bioaerosol production efficiency reaching a difference of almost one order of magnitude along the range between 45 mm (highest bioaerosol release) and 110 mm used in this research. Fluid temperature and surface tension are also very influential parameters responsible for bioaerosol generation during fluid vortex motion; corresponding results are discussed in this manuscript.
Treatment Outcomes of Adolescents Compared to Younger Pediatric Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Do They Need a Special Approach?
Authors: Pawińska-Wąsikowska Katarzyna , Czogała Małgorzata , Bukowska-Strakova Karolina , Surman Marta , Rygielska Monika , Książek Teofila , Sadowska Beata , Pac Agnieszka , Skalska-Sadowska Jolanta , Samborska Magdalena , Wachowiak Jacek , Ciebiera Małgorzata , Chaber Radosław , Tomaszewska Renata , Szczepański Tomasz , Zielezińska Karolina , Urasiński Tomasz , Moj-Hackemer Małgorzata , Kałwak Krzysztof , Kozłowska Marta , Irga-Jaworska Ninela , Sikorska-Fic Barbara , Łaguna Paweł , Muszyńska-Rosłan Katarzyna , Krawczuk-Rybak Maryna , Fałkowska Anna , Drabko Katarzyna , Bobeff Katarzyna , Młynarski Wojciech , Chodała-Grzywacz Agnieszka , Karolczyk Grażyna , Mycko Katarzyna , Badowska Wanda , Bartoszewicz Natalia , Styczyński Jan , Machnik Katarzyna , Mizia-Malarz Agnieszka , Balwierz Walentyna , Skoczeń Szymon
Published: March 2024

Background: The reports of studies that compare the survival of adolescents and young adults with younger children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are contradictory. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 220 AML patients aged 0–18 years treated in pediatric oncologic centers in Poland from 2015 to 2022. The evaluated group included 31 infants (below 1 year), 91 younger children (1–9.9 years), 59 older children (10–14.9 years), and 39 adolescents (15–18 years). Results: A 5-year overall survival for adolescents was not significantly inferior compared to younger and older children (74.3 ± 7.6% vs. 80.5 ± 4.4% vs. 77.9 ± 5.1, p = 0.243). However, relapse-free survival was lower in adolescents compared to younger children (76.5 ± 7.8% vs. 65.7 ± 9.0%, p = 0.049), and treatment-related mortality tended to be higher (10.3% vs. 4.4%, p = 0.569). In the univariate analysis, high-risk genetics [HR, 2.0 (95% CI 1.1–3.6; p = 0.014)] and a leukocyte count at diagnosis above 100,000/μL [HR, 2.4 (95% CI 1.3–4.6; p = 0.004)] were found to be unfavorable prognostic factors for survival. Conclusions: Although we have not found that age over 15 years is an unfavorable factor for overall survival, the optimal approach to therapy in adolescents, as in other age groups, is to adjust the intensity of therapy to individual genetic risk and introduce targeted therapies when indicated.
Bronchopleural Fistula after Lobectomy for Lung Cancer: How to Manage This Life-Threatening Complication Using Both Old and Innovative Solutions
Authors: Mazzella Antonio , Casiraghi Monica , Uslenghi Clarissa , Orlandi Riccardo , Lo Iacono Giorgio , Bertolaccini Luca , Varano Gianluca Maria , Orsi Franco , Spaggiari Lorenzo
Published: March 2024

Backgrounds: Our goal is to evaluate the correct management of broncho-pleural fistula (BPF) after lobectomy for lung cancer. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our 25-years’ experience and reported our strategies and our diagnostic algorithm for the management of post-lobectomy broncho-pleural fistula. Results: Five thousand one hundred and fifty (5150) patients underwent lobectomy for lung cancer in the period between 1998 and 2023. A total of 44 (0.85%) out of 5150 developed post-operative BPF. In 11 cases, BPF was solved by non-invasive treatment. In nine cases, direct surgical repair of the bronchial stump allowed BPF resolution. In 14 cases, a completion intervention was performed. In six cases, we performed open window thoracostomy (OWT) after lobectomy; in two cases, the BPF was closed by percutaneous injection of an n-butyl cyanoacrylate glue mixture. In two cases, no surgical procedure was performed because of the clinical status of the patient at the time of fistula developing. Thirty-day and ninety-day mortality from fistula onset was, respectively, 18.2% (eight patients) and 22.7% (ten patients). Thirty-day and ninety-day mortality after completion pneumonectomy (12 patients) was, respectively, 8.3% (one patient) and 16.6% (two patients). Conclusions: The correct management of BPF depends on various factors: timing of onset, size of the fistula, anatomic localization, and the general condition of the patient. In the case of failure of various initial therapeutic approaches, completion intervention or OWT could be considered.
The Combination of Oolonghomobisflavan B and Diallyl Disulfide Induces Apoptotic Cell Death via 67-kDa Laminin Receptor/Cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells
Authors: Bae Jaehoon , Park Su-Jin
Published: March 2024

Diallyl disulfide (DADS) is a well-known principal functional component derived from garlic (Allium sativum) that has various health benefits. Previously, we identified a 67-kDa laminin receptor, a receptor for oolong tea polyphenol oolonghomobisflavan B (OHBFB). However, its molecular mechanisms still remain to be elucidated. Here, we show that DADS synergistically enhanced the effect of the oolong tea polyphenol oolonghomobisflavan B (OHBFB), which induces apoptosis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cancer cells without affecting normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The underlying mechanism of OHBFB-induced anti-AML effects involves the upregulation of the 67-kDa laminin receptor/endothelial nitric oxide synthase/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)/protein kinase c delta (PKCδ)/acid sphingomyelinase (ASM)/cleaved caspase-3 signaling pathway. In conclusion, we show that the combination of OHBFB and DADS synergistically induced apoptotic cell death in AML cells through activation of 67LR/cGMP/PKCδ/ASM signaling pathway. Moreover, in this mechanism, we demonstrate DADS may reduce the enzyme activity of phosphodiesterase, which is a negative regulator of cGMP that potentiates OHBFB-induced AML apoptotic cell death without affecting normal PBMCs.
Health Patterns across Adulthood: An Age-Based Investigation of the Nutritional Status, Homocysteine, and CoQ10 of Bank Staff
Authors: Schauer Markus , Mair Susanne , Motevalli Mohamad , Tanous Derrick , Burtscher Martin , Wirnitzer Katharina
Published: March 2024

Background: This study aimed to evaluate age-specific variations in the blood levels of micronutrients, homocysteine, and CoQ10, along with physical activity (PA) patterns, among 123 Austrian adult bankers in operational and frontline roles (mean age: 43 years; 50% female). Methods: Blood analysis was conducted to assess micronutrients and the serum concentrations of homocysteine and CoQ10. The micronutrient values in whole blood were compared to sex-specific reference ranges and categorized as below, within, or above them. The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire was utilized to assess PA patterns. Participants were classified as young adults (18–34 years), middle-aged adults (35–49 years), and older adults (50–64 years). Results: Significant age-based differences were found in participants’ mean homocysteine levels (p = 0.039) and homocysteine categories (p = 0.034), indicating an increasing prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia with age. No significant difference between age categories was observed for sex, BMI, diet types, PA levels, sedentary behavior, and CoQ10 (p > 0.05). There was no significant age-based difference in the blood concentrations of most minerals and vitamins (p > 0.05), except for magnesium among females (p = 0.008) and copper among males (p = 0.042). Conclusion: The findings offer initial evidence of the age-related differences in the health status of adult bankers, providing insights for customized approaches to occupational health that support the importance of metabolic health and overall well-being across adulthood.
Strategy for Enhancing Hosting Capacity of Distribution Lines Using a Vertical Photovoltaic System
Authors: Lee Seungmin , Lee Euichan , Lee Junghun , Park Seongjun , Moon Wonsik
Published: March 2024

Renewable energy sources are being increasingly deployed to achieve carbon neutrality, thereby boosting photovoltaic (PV) system adoptions. Accordingly, vertical PV systems designed for specific installations have been developed. We propose a strategy to enhance the PV hosting capacity of a connected distribution line (DL) by combining vertical installations with modules facing east-west and conventional PV systems with modules facing south at an installation angle of approximately 30°. The data were obtained from a real testbed located in South Korea, which is situated in a mid-latitude region. We analyzed the generation patterns of vertical and combined PV systems (vertical and conventional) to enhance the hosting capacity. The results showed that vertical PV combination ratios of 40–60% effectively flattened the peak generation curve. Additionally, the DL hosting capacity improved by 40% under real-world conditions. In an actual industrial scenario, the system feasibility was validated to be within the voltage maintenance range and thermal capacity of lines in South Korea, indicating that this approach can mitigate the need for additional line installations and renewable energy curtailments. Furthermore, the issue of Duck Curves in the power grid can be addressed by smoothing the power production of the PV systems, particularly during low-demand periods.
Starting DNA Synthesis: Initiation Processes during the Replication of Chromosomal DNA in Humans
Authors: Nasheuer Heinz Peter , Meaney Anna Marie
Published: March 2024

The initiation reactions of DNA synthesis are central processes during human chromosomal DNA replication. They are separated into two main processes: the initiation events at replication origins, the start of the leading strand synthesis for each replicon, and the numerous initiation events taking place during lagging strand DNA synthesis. In addition, a third mechanism is the re-initiation of DNA synthesis after replication fork stalling, which takes place when DNA lesions hinder the progression of DNA synthesis. The initiation of leading strand synthesis at replication origins is regulated at multiple levels, from the origin recognition to the assembly and activation of replicative helicase, the Cdc45–MCM2-7–GINS (CMG) complex. In addition, the multiple interactions of the CMG complex with the eukaryotic replicative DNA polymerases, DNA polymerase α-primase, DNA polymerase δ and ε, at replication forks play pivotal roles in the mechanism of the initiation reactions of leading and lagging strand DNA synthesis. These interactions are also important for the initiation of signalling at unperturbed and stalled replication forks, “replication stress” events, via ATR (ATM–Rad 3-related protein kinase). These processes are essential for the accurate transfer of the cells’ genetic information to their daughters. Thus, failures and dysfunctions in these processes give rise to genome instability causing genetic diseases, including cancer. In their influential review “Hallmarks of Cancer: New Dimensions”, Hanahan and Weinberg (2022) therefore call genome instability a fundamental function in the development process of cancer cells. In recent years, the understanding of the initiation processes and mechanisms of human DNA replication has made substantial progress at all levels, which will be discussed in the review.
Genomic Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 Variants from Clinical Isolates during the COVID-19 Epidemic in Mauritania
Authors: Deida Jemila , Papa Mze Nasserdine , Beye Mamadou , Ahmed Sidi Mohamed , El Bara Ahmed , Bollahi Mohamed Abdallahi , Basco Leonardo , Ould Mohamed Salem Boukhary Ali , Fournier Pierre-Edouard
Published: March 2024

The rapid genetic evolution of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has greatly challenged public health authorities worldwide, including in Mauritania. Despite the presence of the virus in Mauritania, only one study described its genomic variation during the course of the epidemic. The purpose of the present study was to document the genomic pattern of SARS-CoV-2 variants from clinical isolates during the COVID-19 outbreak in Mauritania, from September to November 2021. The whole genomes from 54 SARS-CoV-2 strains detected in nasopharyngeal swabs with a cycle threshold value ≤ 30 were successfully sequenced using next-generation sequencing (NGS) and the Illumina protocol. The mean genome coverage (±standard deviation) was 96.8% (±3.7). The most commonly identified clade was 21J (57.4%), followed by 21D (16.7%), 20A (11.1%), and 20B (9.2%). At the level of lineages, the majority of the samples were Delta variants with the sub-lineage AY.34 (or B.1.617.2.34). Among the 54 SARS-CoV-2 isolates that were successfully sequenced, 33 (61.1%) came from vaccinated individuals, and 21 (38.9%) were from unvaccinated individuals. Several SARS-CoV-2 variants were present in Mauritania between September and November 2021. As Mauritania, like many West African countries, is resource-limited regarding viral genome sequencing facilities, establishment of mutualized sub-regional sequencing platforms will be necessary to ensure continuous monitoring of mutations in viral genomes and track potential reduction in COVID-19 vaccine efficacy, increased transmissibility, and disease severity.