bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Social Presence Influences Consumer Well-Being in Live Video Commerce: The Mediating Role of Shopping Enjoyment and the Moderating Role of Familiarity
Authors: Huang Zhen , Yan Xue , Deng Jia
Published: April 2024

In recent years, with the rapid development of live-streaming commerce, the social dynamics and psychological impact of such online activities merit further discussion. In this study, we investigate the sensory experiences of viewers watching live streaming and examine how these online experiences influence consumer well-being. We developed a conceptual model to understand this mechanism based on the relationship between social presence, shopping enjoyment, familiarity, and consumer well-being. The results of 410 samples indicate that (1) social presence in live-streaming commerce has a significant positive effect on consumer well-being; (2) shopping enjoyment plays a mediating role in the process of social presence predicting consumer well-being; and (3) familiarity plays a moderating role in the second half of the indirect effect of social presence on well-being. This study examines the relationship between social presence and consumer well-being in the context of live-streaming marketing, expanding the research scenario of consumer well-being and clarifying the psychological mechanisms and boundary conditions of the effect of social presence on consumers well-being, which has important implications for online interactive marketing enterprises to enhance social presence and promote consumers long-term well-being.
Early Results of the Sandwich Technique Using Cyanoacrylate Glue and Polidocanol Foam Sclerotherapy for the Treatment of Varicose Veins
Authors: Simka Marian , Skuła Marcin
Published: April 2024

Background: This is a retrospective analysis of the results of treatment for varicose veins using the sandwich technique with cyanoacrylate glue and foam sclerotherapy. This novel method allows for a substantial reduction in the amount of glue needed for vein closure, and minimizes the risk of granuloma formation and allergic reaction related to the epifascial administration of cyanoacrylate. Methods: This technique was used in 60 patients, 77 intrafascial veins were managed. Vein closures were performed with Venex cyanoacrylate glue and 1–3% polidocanol foam. All procedures were performed under ultrasonographic control, through direct percutaneous punctures of target veins. Follow-ups were scheduled 1–3 weeks after the procedure. If revealed, unclosed segments of the target veins were obliterated at these follow-up visits, with glue and/or sclerotherapy. Results: There were no serious adverse events intra- or postprocedurally. The technical success rate was 100%. The primary success rate at 1–3 weeks follow-up was 84.4%. The primary assisted success rate, after additional closures, was 100%. Conclusions: We demonstrated that the treatment for varicose veins, using a sandwich technique, which combines cyanoacrylate glue and foam sclerotherapy, can be safe and efficient.
From Bilingualism to Multilingualism: Mapping Language Dynamics in the Linguistic Landscape of Hispanic Philadelphia
Authors: Guarín Daniel
Published: April 2024

This study explores the linguistic landscape (LL) of three Hispanic neighborhoods in Philadelphia, PA, aiming to document and measure the presence of the Spanish language in public spaces and understand the influence of time, location, and establishment type on language use. Based on 3437 signs analyzed from 2021 to 2023, our findings reveal that English dominates the LL at 61.65%, while Spanish constitutes 24.16%. The study employs chi-squared tests to confirm the impact of time and location on language use, highlighting a rise in bilingual and monolingual Spanish signs over time. Additionally, variables were combined into clusters using a heatmap to explore language use across different establishments. Bilingualism emerges as a sustained trend, underscoring inclusivity and linguistic diversity within these contexts. Location analysis exposes unique linguistic characteristics in each neighborhood, reflecting the cultural and linguistic diversity of their communities. The Golden Block exhibits bilingual prevalence, indicative of evolving demographics. Olney showcases language mixtures due to diverse ethnic and sociolinguistic influences, while South Philadelphia’s Italian Market area features prevalent Spanish and multilingual signage. The study underscores the growing presence of Spanish and minority languages, emphasizing the need to recognize and revitalize linguistic diversity in urban spaces. As cities evolve, continued exploration of the LL is crucial to understanding language dynamics in relation to identity, culture, and power.
A Multimodal Approach to Catalan Pragmatic Markers: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Llopis Cardona Ana , Hübscher Iris , Cabedo Nebot Adrián
Published: April 2024

This exploratory study aims to investigate the co-occurrence of Catalan pragmatic markers that fulfill an interactive function and multimodal cues, such as manual gestures, adaptors, head gestures, and eye gaze. To do so, we utilized spontaneous face-to-face conversations between ten different dyads, all of whom were undergraduate students discussing movies that they had recently seen. We processed the data with descriptive quantitative statistics, specifically employing exploratory multifactorial statistical visualization techniques, including multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) and cluster analysis. The results showed that pragmatic markers generally co-occur with multimodal cues. Although the multimodal system works independently, when pragmatic markers are uttered, both systems tend to harmonize in accordance with general communicative tasks, particularly turn management, alignment, and social affiliation.
Influence of the Cultural Defence on Conduct and Culpability in South African Criminal Law
Authors: Matthee Jacques
Published: April 2024

South African criminal law has no separate, distinct, or novel cultural defence. Such a defence could negate or mitigate an accused’s criminal liability for a culturally motivated crime. Whether South Africa’s criminal law could adopt such a defence requires understanding its influence on the requirements for criminal liability. This article evaluates the influence of the cultural defence on the elements of conduct and culpability. The first part deals with the cultural defence and voluntary conduct. The discussion then turns to culpability, which consists of criminal capacity and fault (mens rea). The third part considers the cultural defence’s influence on criminal capacity, while the fourth considers its influence on fault. More specifically, the article evaluates how the existing types of defence that can negate conduct and culpability in South Africa’s criminal law can accommodate arguments of an accused’s cultural background, values, and beliefs to determine whether there is a gap that only a separate, distinct, or novel cultural defence can fill. The article concludes that South Africa’s principles of conduct and culpability are already flexible enough to accommodate such arguments, obviating the need for introducing a separate, distinct, or novel cultural defence.
Morphology and Function of Red Blood Cells in COVID-19 Patients: Current Overview 2023
Authors: Jung Friedrich , Connes Philippe
Published: April 2024

In severe cases, SARS-CoV-2 infection leads to severe respiratory failure. Although angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors are not expressed in red blood cells, SARS-CoV-2 can interact with red blood cells (RBCs) via several receptors or auxiliary membrane proteins. Recent data show that viral infection causes significant damage to the RBCs, altering their morphology, deformability, and aggregability. Loss of RBC deformability and/or increased aggregability favors the development of thrombotic processes in the microcirculation, as has been described to occur in COVID-19 patients. In addition, many patients also develop systemic endotheliitis associated with generalized coagulopathy. This manifests itself clinically as obstructive microthrombi in the area of the medium and smallest vessels, which can affect all internal organs. It is thought that such changes in the RBCs may contribute to the microangiopathy/microthrombosis associated with COVID-19 and may result in impaired capillary blood flow and tissue oxygenation.
Conventional and Green Rubber Plasticizers Classified through Nile Red [E(NR)] and Reichardt’s Polarity Scale [ET(30)]
Authors: Cataldo Franco
Published: April 2024

After a survey on polymer plasticization theories and conventional criteria to evaluate polymer–plasticizer compatibility through the solubility parameter, an attempt to create a polymer–plasticizer polarity scale through solvatochromic dyes has been made. Since Reichardt’s ET(30) dye is insoluble in rubber hydrocarbon polymers like polyisoprene, polybutadiene and styrene–butadiene copolymers and is not useful for the evaluation of the hydrocarbons and ester plasticizers, the Nile Red solvatochromic dye was instead used extensively and successfully for this class of compounds. A total of 53 different compounds were evaluated with the Nile Red dye and wherever possible also with Reichardt’s ET(33) dye. A very good correlation was then found between the Nile Red scale E(NR) and Reichardt’s ET(30) scale for this class of compounds focusing on diene rubbers and their typical hydrocarbons and new ester plasticizers. Furthermore, the E(NR) scale also shows a reasonable correlation with the total solubility parameter calculated according to the Van Krevelen method. Based on the above results, some conclusion was made about the compatibility between the diene rubbers and the conventional plasticizers, as well as a new and green plasticizer proposed for the rubber compounds.
The Epidemiology of Chronic Hepatitis C: Where We Are Now
Authors: Stasi Cristina , Milli Caterina , Voller Fabio , Silvestri Caterina
Published: April 2024

One of the main objectives of the World Health Organization is the eradication of viral hepatitis by 2030 by identifying subjects before disease progression. In 2019, only 21% of the 58 million people chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) had been diagnosed, while overall 13% had been treated. The key recommendation of international screening programs is to reach the people at major risk of viral hepatitis and the general population. National plans, including that in Italy, have dedicated budget lines to support efforts to achieve the objective of elimination. The Italian program involves free screening for HCV in the general population born between 1969 and 1989 and also for all persons in the care of addiction services (Ser.D) and prisoners. The screening programs differed slightly among regions in Italy. In particular, referring to the screening for people born in the period of 1969–1989, in Tuscany, these people received an invitation by SMS to undergo a HCV antibody test. If the test results were positive, the subject was registered on a regional platform and required to undergo HCV RNA testing, prescribed by their GP. In the case of testing positive for HCV RNA, the linkage to care (i.e., patient entry into specialist care after diagnosis) is guaranteed. A strong effort is currently required to eliminate HCV effectively. This review highlights the most recent changes to the epidemiological scenario at the global, European, Italian, and regional (Tuscany) levels.
(1RS,3SR)-1-(4-Methylbenzyl)-7-phenyl-5-oxa-6-azaspiro[2.4]hept-6-en-4-one
Authors: Titov Gleb D. , Rostovskii Nikolai V.
Published: April 2024

The previously unknown cyclopropane spiro-fused with isoxazol-5-one ((1RS,3SR)-1-(4-methylbenzyl)-7-phenyl-5-oxa-6-azaspiro[2.4]hept-6-en-4-one) was synthesized from benzylideneisoxazol-5-one in 34% yield via double methylene transfer from diazomethane. The structure of the compound was established based on 1H, 13C, and 2D NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry, and confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis.
Synthesis of Size-Adjustable CsPbBr3 Perovskite Quantum Dots for Potential Photoelectric Catalysis Applications
Authors: Li Hang , He Jiazhen , Wang Xiaoqian , Liu Qi , Luo Xuemin , Wang Mingwei , Liu Jinfeng , Liu Chengqi , Liu Yong
Published: April 2024

As a direct band gap semiconductor, perovskite has the advantages of high carrier mobility, long charge diffusion distance, high defect tolerance and low-cost solution preparation technology. Compared with traditional metal halide perovskites, which regulate energy band and luminescence by changing halogen, perovskite quantum dots (QDs) have a surface effect and quantum confinement effect. Based on the LaMer nucleation growth theory, we have synthesized CsPbBr3 QDs with high dimensional homogeneity by creating an environment rich in Br− ions based on the general thermal injection method. Moreover, the size of the quantum dots can be adjusted by simply changing the reaction temperature and the concentration of Br− ions in the system, and the blue emission of strongly confined pure CsPbBr3 perovskite is realized. Finally, optical and electrochemical tests suggested that the synthesized quantum dots have the potential to be used in the field of photocatalysis.
Study on the Quasi-Ductile Fracture Behavior of Glubam: The Role of Fiber Distribution
Authors: Jiang Haolei , Liu Wen
Published: April 2024

Cracking in fibrous composites is inevitable, and the fracture pattern is influenced by its fiber distribution. Bamboo fibrous composites have a distinct fiber distribution, which makes them an excellent material for studng the relationship between fiber distribution and fracture mode. Glued laminated bamboo is a bi-directional bamboo fibrous composite, which is called glubam for short. Its vertical thickness is about 28 mm, and the ratio of the number of longitudinal fiber layers to the number of transverse fiber layers is 4:1. This study conducted three-point bending fracture tests on single-edge notched specimens of glubam to investigate its mode-I fracture characteristics in the transverse vertical direction. The deformation curves show that the specimens still have the load-carrying capacity after reaching the maximum load, and the load shows a trend of step-like decrease, exhibiting a quasi-ductile fracture behavior. Overall, the fracture process can be divided into four stages, including linear, softening, quasi-ductile, and failure stages. In this study, based on certain assumptions, the prefabricated notch length a0 was adjusted according to the position of the transverse fibers. Subsequently, the non-linear elastic fracture mechanics method was employed to calculate the fracture parameters of glubam during the softening and quasi-ductile stages, including the fracture toughness KIC* and fiber tensile strength ft. The deviation of the fracture parameters between the two stages is within 10%, indicating that the correction of the a0 is correct. This indirectly proves that the staggered structure formed by longitudinal and transverse fibers is responsible for the quasi-toughness fracture of glubam. Finally, this study summarized and analyzed the quasi-ductile fracture behavior and found that materials or structures exhibiting quasi-ductile fracture behavior often possess a staggered structure. This staggered structure makes the crack in the form of semi-stable propagation, while the load decreases in a step-like manner.
Chiral Modulations in Non-Heisenberg Models of Non-Centrosymmetric Magnets Near the Ordering Temperatures
Authors: Leonov Andrey O.
Published: April 2024

The structure of skyrmion and spiral solutions, investigated within the phenomenological Dzyaloshinskii model of chiral magnets near the ordering temperatures, is characterized by the strong interplay between longitudinal and angular order parameters, which may be responsible for experimentally observed precursor effects. Within the precursor regions, additional effects, such as pressure, electric fields, chemical doping, uniaxial strains and/or magnetocrystalline anisotropies, modify the energetic landscape and may even lead to the stability of such exotic phases as a square staggered lattice of half-skyrmions, the internal structure of which employs the concept of the “soft” modulus and contains points with zero modulus value. Here, we additionally alter the stiffness of the magnetization modulus to favor one- and two-dimensional modulated states with large modulations of the order parameter magnitude. The computed phase diagram, which omits any additional effects, exhibits stability pockets with a square half-skyrmion lattice, a hexagonal skyrmion lattice with the magnetization in the center of the cells parallel to the applied magnetic field, and helicoids with propagation transverse to the field, i.e., those phases in which the notion of localized defects is replaced by the picture of a smooth but more complex tiling of space. We note that the results can be adapted to metallic glasses, in which the energy contributions are the same and originate from the inherent frustration in the models, and chiral liquid crystals with a different ratio of elastic constants.
WOA: Wombat Optimization Algorithm for Solving Supply Chain Optimization Problems
Authors: Benmamoun Zoubida , Khlie Khaoula , Dehghani Mohammad , Gherabi Youness
Published: April 2024

Supply Chain (SC) Optimization is a key activity in today’s industry with the goal of increasing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and improving customer satisfaction. Traditional optimization methods often struggle to effectively use resources while handling complex and dynamic Supply chain networks. This paper introduces a novel biomimetic metaheuristic algorithm called the Wombat Optimization Algorithm (WOA) for supply chain optimization. This algorithm replicates the natural behaviors observed in wombats living in the wild, particularly focusing on their foraging tactics and evasive maneuvers towards predators. The theory of WOA is described and then mathematically modeled in two phases: (i) exploration based on the simulation of wombat movements during foraging and trying to find food and (ii) exploitation based on simulating wombat movements when diving towards nearby tunnels to defend against its predators. The effectiveness of WOA in addressing optimization challenges is assessed by handling the CEC 2017 test suite across various problem dimensions, including 10, 30, 50, and 100. The findings of the optimization indicate that WOA demonstrates a strong ability to effectively manage exploration and exploitation, and maintains a balance between them throughout the search phase to deliver optimal solutions for optimization problems. A total of twelve well-known metaheuristic algorithms are called upon to test their performance against WOA in the optimization process. The outcomes of the simulations reveal that WOA outperforms the other algorithms, achieving superior results across most benchmark functions and securing the top ranking as the most efficient optimizer. Using a Wilcoxon rank sum test statistical analysis, it has been proven that WOA outperforms other algorithms significantly. WOA is put to the test with twenty-two constrained optimization problems from the CEC 2011 test suite and four engineering design problems to showcase its ability to solve real-world optimization problems. The results of the simulations demonstrate that WOA excels in real-world applications by delivering superior solutions and outperforming its competitors.
Brodmann Areas, V1 Atlas and Cognitive Impairment: Assessing Cortical Thickness for Cognitive Impairment Diagnostics
Authors: Trišins Maksims , Zdanovskis Nauris , Platkājis Ardis , Šneidere Kristīne , Kostiks Andrejs , Karelis Guntis , Stepens Ainārs
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives: Magnetic resonance imaging is vital for diagnosing cognitive decline. Brodmann areas (BA), distinct regions of the cerebral cortex categorized by cytoarchitectural variances, provide insights into cognitive function. This study aims to compare cortical thickness measurements across brain areas identified by BA mapping. We assessed these measurements among patients with and without cognitive impairment, and across groups categorized by cognitive performance levels using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we included 64 patients who were divided in two ways: in two groups with (CI) or without (NCI) impaired cognitive function and in three groups with normal (NC), moderate (MPG) and low (LPG) cognitive performance according to MoCA scores. Scans with a 3T MRI scanner were carried out, and cortical thickness data was acquired using Freesurfer 7.2.0 software. Results: By analyzing differences between the NCI and CI groups cortical thickness of BA3a in left hemisphere (U = 241.000, p = 0.016), BA4a in right hemisphere (U = 269.000, p = 0.048) and BA28 in left hemisphere (U = 584.000, p = 0.005) showed significant differences. In the LPG, MPG and NC cortical thickness in BA3a in left hemisphere (H (2) = 6.268, p = 0.044), in V2 in right hemisphere (H (2) = 6.339, p = 0.042), in BA28 in left hemisphere (H (2) = 23.195, p < 0.001) and in BA28 in right hemisphere (H (2) = 10.015, p = 0.007) showed significant differences. Conclusions: Our study found that cortical thickness in specific Brodmann Areas—BA3a and BA28 in the left hemisphere, and BA4a in the right—differ significantly between NCI and CI groups. Significant differences were also observed in BA3a (left), V2 (right), and BA28 (both hemispheres) across LPG, MPG, NC groups. Despite a small sample size, these findings suggest cortical thickness measurements can serve as effective biomarkers for cognitive impairment diagnosis, warranting further validation with a larger cohort.
Inhibition of Proliferation and Induction of Apoptosis in Prostatic Carcinoma DU145 Cells by Polysaccharides from Yunnan Rosa roxburghii Tratt
Authors: Yang Ziyan , Chen Guiyuan
Published: April 2024

Objective: This study aimed to investigate methodologies for the extraction and purification of polysaccharides from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruits and their impact on various cellular processes in prostate cancer DU145 cells, including survival rate, migration, invasion, cell cycle, and apoptosis. Results: Compared to the control group, the polysaccharide exhibited a significant reduction in the viability, migration, and invasion rates of DU145 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner within the polysaccharide-treated groups. Additionally, it effectively arrested the cell cycle of DU145 cells at the G0/G1 phase by downregulating the expressions of CDK-4, CDK-6, and Cyclin D1. Furthermore, it induced apoptosis by upregulating the expressions of Caspase 3, Caspase 8, Caspase 9, and BAX. Methods: Polysaccharides were extracted from Rosa roxburghii Tratt sourced from Yunnan, China. Extraction and decolorization methods were optimized using response surface methodology, based on a single-factor experiment. Polysaccharide purification was carried out using DEAE-52 cellulose and Sephadex G-100 column chromatography. The optimal dosage of R. roxburghii Tratt polysaccharide affecting DU145 cells was determined using the CCK-8 assay. Cell migration and invasion were assessed using transwell and scratch assays. Flow cytometry was employed to analyze the effects on the cell cycle and apoptosis. Western blotting and Quantitative real-time PCR were utilized to examine protein and mRNA expressions in DU145 cells, respectively. Conclusions: Rosa roxburghii Tratt polysaccharides, consisting of D-mannose, L-rhamnose, N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, D-galacturonic acid, D-glucose, D-galactcose, D-xylose, L-arabinose, and L-fucose, possess the ability to hinder DU145 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion while inducing apoptosis through the modulation of relevant protein and gene expressions.
Diverting the Use of Hand-Operated Tablet Press Machines to Bioassays: A Novel Protocol to Test ‘Waste’ Insoluble Shell Matrices
Authors: Lutet-Toti Camille , Da Silva Feliciano Marie , Debrosse Nelly , Thomas Jérôme , Plasseraud Laurent , Marin Frédéric
Published: April 2024

To mineralize their shells, molluscs secrete a complex cocktail of proteins—collectively defined as the calcifying shell matrix—that remains occluded in the exoskeleton. Nowadays, protein extracts from shells are recognized as a potential source of bioactive substances, among which signalling molecules, bactericides or protease inhibitors offer the most tangible perspectives in applied sciences, health, and aquaculture. However, one technical obstacle in testing the activity of shell extracts lies in their high insolubility. In this paper, we present a protocol that circumvents this impediment. After an adapted shell protein extraction and the production of two organic fractions—one soluble, one insoluble—we employ a hand-operated tablet press machine to generate well-calibrated tablets composed of 100% insoluble shell matrix. FT-IR monitoring of the quality of the tablets shows that the pressure used in the press machine does not impair the molecular properties of the insoluble extracts. The produced tablets can be directly tested in different biological assays, such as the bactericidal inhibition zone assay in Petri dish, as illustrated here. Diverting the use of the hand-operated tablet press opens new perspectives in the analysis of insoluble shell matrices, for discovering novel bioactive components.
Utilization of Ocrelizumab within Different Treatment Strategies for Multiple Sclerosis: A 5-Year Population-Based Study
Authors: Moccia Marcello , Affinito Giuseppina , Marrazzo Giuseppina , Ciarambino Tiziana , Di Procolo Paolo , Confalonieri Licia , Carotenuto Antonio , Petracca Maria , Lanzillo Roberta , Triassi Maria , Brescia Morra Vincenzo , Palladino Raffaele
Published: April 2024

Background: We aim to provide up-to-date real-world evidence on the persistence, adherence, healthcare resource utilization, and costs of multiple sclerosis (MS) by comparing ocrelizumab to other disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) and within different DMT sequences. Methods: We included 3371 people with MS who first received or switched DMT prescriptions from January 2018 to December 2022; they were identified through hospital discharge records, drug prescriptions, and exemption codes from the Campania Region (South Italy). We calculated persistence (time from the first prescription to discontinuation or switching to another DMT), adherence (proportion of days covered (PDC)), DMT costs, and MS hospital admissions and related costs. Results: The most frequently prescribed DMT was dimethyl fumarate (n = 815; age 38.90 ± 11.91 years; 69.5% females), followed by ocrelizumab (n = 682; age 46.46 ± 11.29 years; 56.3%); 28.8% of the patients treated with ocrelizumab were naïve to DMTs. Using ocrelizumab as a statistical reference, the risk of discontinuation was higher for other highly active (HR = 6.32; 95%CI = 3.16, 12.63; p < 0.01) and low-/medium-efficacy DMTs (HR = 10.10; 95%CI = 5.10, 19.77; p < 0.01); adherence was lower for other highly active DMTs (Coeff = −0.07; 95%CI = −0.10, −0.04; p < 0.01) and low-/medium-efficacy DMTs (Coeff = −0.16; 95%CI = −0.19, −0.14; p < 0.01). monthly DMT costs were higher for other highly active DMTs (Coeff = 77.45; 95%CI = 29.36, 125.53; p < 0.01) but lower for low-/medium-efficacy DMTs (Coeff = −772.31; 95%CI = −816.95, −727.66; p < 0.01). The hospital admissions and related costs of MS were similar between ocrelizumab, other highly active DMTs, and other low-/medium-efficacy DMTs, and with ocrelizumab as the first-line DMT after other highly active DMTs and after low-/medium-efficacy DMTs, which was possibly due to the low number of observations. Conclusions: From 2018 to 2022, ocrelizumab was among the most frequently prescribed DMTs, with 28.8% prescriptions to incident MS patients, confirming its relevance in clinical practice. Ocrelizumab was associated with the highest persistence and adherence, pointing towards its favorable benefit–risk profile. The costs of ocrelizumab were lower than those of other highly active DMTs.
Is Obesity a Cause for Shame? Weight Bias and Stigma among Physicians, Dietitians, and Other Healthcare Professionals in Poland—A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Baska Alicja , Świder Karolina , Zgliczyński Wojciech Stefan , Kłoda Karolina , Mastalerz-Migas Agnieszka , Babicki Mateusz
Published: April 2024

Weight bias and weight stigma pose significant challenges in healthcare, particularly affecting obesity management practices and patient care quality. Our study evaluates their prevalence and impact among healthcare professionals in Poland. Using the Fat Phobia Scale and custom questions, we surveyed 686 professionals via Computer-Assisted Web Interview (CAWI). Results reveal a moderate level of explicit weight bias (mean score: 3.60 ± 0.57), with significant variations across professional groups: physicians (3.70 ± 0.48), dietitians (3.51 ± 0.48), and others (3.44 ± 0.77). Common feelings towards individuals with obesity include willingness to help (57.0%) and compassion (37.8%), yet 29.9% perceive obesity as shameful. The results also vary depending on the respondent’s sex or BMI. These findings underscore the need for evidence-based interventions to mitigate weight stigma and enhance understanding of obesity among healthcare professionals.
Effect of a Low-Calorie Dietary Intervention on Liver Health and Body Weight in Adults with Metabolic-Dysfunction Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) and Overweight/Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dobbie Laurence J. , Burgess Jamie , Hamid Azlinda , Nevitt Sarah J. , Hydes Theresa J. , Alam Uazman , Cuthbertson Daniel J.
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Metabolic-dysfunction Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) is a common cause of chronic liver disease. This review assessed the efficacy of a Low-Calorie Diet (LCD) on liver health and body weight in people living with MASLD and obesity. Methods: The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021296501), and a literature search was conducted using multiple databases. The key inclusion criteria were randomised controlled trials or cohort studies, obesity/overweight and MASLD. Two authors screened abstracts, reviewed full texts and performed data extraction and quality assessment. The primary outcome was the change in the serum ALT, and secondary outcomes included the changes in the serum AST, intrahepatic lipid content (IHL), quantified non-invasively via MRI/MRS, and body weight. Results: Fifteen studies were included. The LCD reduced body weight by 9.1 kg versus the control (95%CI: −12.4, −5.8) but not serum ALT (−5.9 IU/L, −13.9, 2.0). Total Dietary Replacement (TDR) reduced IHL by −9.1% vs. the control (−15.6%, −2.6%). The Mediterranean-LCD for ≥12 months reduced ALT (−4.1 IU/L, −7.6, −0.5) and for 24 months reduced liver stiffness versus other LCDs. The Green-Mediterranean-LCD reduced IHL, independent of body weight. Limited studies assessed those of Black or Asian ethnicity, and there was heterogeneity in the methods assessing the liver fat content and fibrosis. Conclusions: In people with MASLD and obesity, an LCD intervention reduces IHL and body weight. Trials should focus on the recruitment of Black and Asian ethnicity participants.
Hybrid Orthodontics for Aesthetic Deep Bite Correction—Case Series and General Clinical Considerations
Authors: Aiyar Akila , Scuzzo Giuseppe , Scuzzo Giacomo , Verna Carlalberta
Published: April 2024

Background: A range of psychosocial and aesthetic factors motivate patients to undergo orthodontic treatment. The appliance choice depends not only on the type of malocclusion, but also on the aesthetic and functional demands of the patients themselves. Nowadays, digital planning enables the manufacture of individualised and customised orthodontic appliances. However, the predictability of movements with aligner treatment has long been under discussion. This article illustrates, through a series of case reports, how a hybrid approach combining individualised aesthetic orthodontic appliances can improve the predictability of tooth movements, thereby providing additional tools for clinicians charged with choosing the best indicated and biomechanically advantageous technique. To this end, three patients with different malocclusions were treated via a hybrid approach involving clear aligners in the upper arch followed by lingual fixed appliances in the upper and lower arches. All patients were treated using ALIAS lingual PSL 0.018 × 0.018-inch slot brackets and in-house 3D-printed aligners. Findings: The hybrid approach combining aligners and fixed lingual appliances led to the successful resolution of all three complex cases in the series without prolonging treatment time. The superimpositions demonstrate the predictability of even traditionally difficult movements. In particular, the Alias PSL lingual system, used from the beginning, enabled good control of both the torque and inclination of the lower incisors. Conclusions: Combining clear aligners and fixed lingual appliances provides a highly efficient means of treating malocclusions aesthetically. In our cases, the aligners offset the lack of bite-plate effect from the lingual brackets and appliances, providing advantageous biomechanics for rotation correction and control of tip, torque and root movements. Understanding how to exploit the strengths of each appliance enables the clinician to treat adult patients efficaciously, efficiently and aesthetically.
Use of Biosensors within the Oral Environment for Systemic Health Monitoring—A Systematic Review
Authors: Archer Natalie , Ladan Sa’ada , Lancashire Henry T. , Petridis Haralampos
Published: April 2024

Scientific advances in biosensor technology are leading to the potential of wearable biosensors for salivary biomarker detection. This review aims to identify the current status of intraoral biosensor technology that can be used to monitor systemic diseases. A total of 11 studies were identified for inclusion, which included nine different devices, including modified mouthguards, retainers, toothbrushes, and dental floss. Out of the 11 studies, 8 studied continuous biomarker monitoring, and the remaining 3 were point-of-care applications. A total of seven biomarkers were studied, six of which investigated the intraoral detection of salivary glucose levels using glucose oxidase enzyme. All the sensors demonstrated excellent sensitivity (minimum R = 0.9928) and selectivity. The study designs were proof of concept, with five studies including in vivo components. We concluded that while there are established links between salivary biomarkers and systemic health, there is a lack of mature intraoral biosensor research. Refinement of biosensor design and data analysis is required to improve patient acceptability by promoting more discrete, real-time, low-cost, and wireless devices. Further research that utilises the biosensor technology in large controlled clinical trials will be required to confirm clinical applicability before intraoral biosensor technology can be integrated into routine health monitoring.
Cosmological Mass of the Photon Related to Stueckelberg and Higgs Mechanisms
Authors: Resca Lorenzo Gallerani
Published: April 2024

I consider the electro-weak (EW) masses and interactions generated by photons using vacuum expectation values of Stueckelberg and Higgs fields. I provide a prescription to relate their parametric values to a cosmological range derived from the fundamental Heisenberg uncertainty principle and the Einstein–de Sitter cosmological constant and horizon. This yields qualitative connections between microscopic ranges acquired by W± or Z0 gauge Bosons and the cosmological scale and minimal mass acquired by g-photons. I apply this procedure to an established Stueckelberg–Higgs mechanism, while I consider a similar procedure for a pair of Higgs fields that may spontaneously break all U(1) × SU(2) gauge invariances. My estimates of photon masses and their additional parity-breaking interactions with leptons and neutrinos may be detectable in suitable accelerator experiments. Their effects may also be observable astronomically through massive g-photon condensates that may contribute to dark matter and dark energy.
Unveiling the Role of PAR 1: A Crucial Link with Inflammation in Diabetic Subjects with COVID-19
Authors: Singh Ravinder , Singh Varinder , Ahmad Md. Altamash , Pasricha Chirag , Kumari Pratima , Singh Thakur Gurjeet , Kaur Rupinder , Mujwar Somdutt , Wani Tanveer A. , Zargar Seema
Published: April 2024

Inflammation is a distinguished clinical manifestation of COVID-19 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), often associated with inflammatory dysfunctions, insulin resistance, metabolic dysregulation, and other complications. The present study aims to test the hypothesis that serum concentrations of PAR-1 levels differ between COVID-19 diabetic patients (T2DM) and non-diabetic COVID-19 patients and determine their association with different biochemical parameters and inflammatory biomarkers. T2DM patients with COVID-19 (n = 50) with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels of (9.23 ± 1.66) and non-diabetic COVID-19 patients (n = 50) with HbA1c levels (4.39 ± 0.57) were recruited in this study. The serum PAR-1 levels (ELISA method) were determined in both groups and correlated with parameters such as age, BMI, inflammatory markers including CRP, interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), D-dimer, homocysteine, and N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). Demographic variables such as BMI (29.21 ± 3.52 vs. controls 21.30 ± 2.11) and HbA1c (9.23 ± 1.66 vs. controls 4.39 ± 0.57) were found to be statistically elevated in COVID-19 T2DM patients compared to non-diabetic COVID-19 patients. The concentrations of several inflammatory biomarkers and PAR-1 were remarkably increased in the COVID-19 T2DM group when compared with the non-diabetic COVID-19 group. The univariate analysis revealed that increased serum PAR-1 estimations were positively correlated with enhanced HbA1c, BMI, inflammatory cytokines, D-dimer, homocysteine, and NT-proBNP. The findings in the current study suggest that increased levels of serum PAR-1 in the bloodstream could potentially serve as an independent biomarker of inflammation in COVID-19 patients with T2DM.
Evaluation of Oral Amoxicillin/Clavulanate for Urinary Tract Infections Caused by Ceftriaxone Non-Susceptible Enterobacterales
Authors: Salam Madison E. , Jeffres Meghan , Molina Kyle C. , Miller Matthew A. , Huang Misha , Fish Douglas N.
Published: April 2024

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common infections and are frequently caused by Gram-negative organisms. The rise of resistant isolates has prompted evaluation of alternative therapies, including amoxicillin-clavulanate which has potent activity against Ambler class A enzymes. This study sought to evaluate clinical outcomes of patients with ceftriaxone non-susceptible UTIs receiving amoxicillin-clavulanate or standard of care (SOC). This was a single-center, retrospective, cohort study of adult patients with urinary tract infections caused by a ceftriaxone non-susceptible pathogen who received amoxicillin-clavulanate or SOC. The primary outcome was clinical failure at 90 days. Secondary outcomes included time to failure, isolation of a resistant organism, and hospital length of stay. Fifty-nine patients met study inclusion: 26 received amoxicillin/clavulanate and 33 received SOC. Amoxicillin-clavulanate recipients did not have higher failure rates compared to SOC recipients. For patients requiring hospital admission, hospital length of stay was numerically shorter with amoxicillin-clavulanate. The frequency of amoxicillin-clavulanate and carbapenem-resistant organisms did not differ significantly between groups. Amoxicillin-clavulanate may be a useful alternative therapy for the treatment of ceftriaxone non-susceptible Enterobacterales UTIs.
Cultivating Dignity in Intelligent Systems
Authors: Fasoro Adeniyi
Published: April 2024

As artificial intelligence (AI) integrates across social domains, prevailing technical paradigms often overlook human relational needs vital for cooperative resilience. Alternative pathways consciously supporting dignity and wisdom warrant consideration. Integrating seminal insights from virtue and care ethics, this article delineates the following four cardinal design principles prioritizing communal health: (1) affirming the sanctity of life; (2) nurturing healthy attachment; (3) facilitating communal wholeness; and (4) safeguarding societal resilience. Grounding my analysis in the rich traditions of moral philosophy, I argue that these principles scaffold sustainable innovation trajectories that consciously center shared welfare advancement over detached technical capabilities or efficiency benchmarks alone. Elucidating connections with pioneering initiatives demonstrates fragments of this vision taking embryonic shape, yet pervasive adoption remains largely aspirational to date. Fulfilling dignity-based artificial intelligence demands ongoing collective commitment beyond firms’ profit motives or governance proceduralism. My conclusions urge technology policies and priorities directed toward empowering the vulnerability of people rather than controlling the optimization of systems.
OLED-Pumped Organic Laser Diode
Authors: Lenstra Daan , Fischer Alexis
Published: April 2024

A theoretical analysis is presented for a recently proposed high-speed µ-OLED optically pumped organic laser. We confirm that for this configuration, the laser threshold is reached at a lower current density than in the case of a direct-electrically pumped organic laser diode while generating pulses of order 15 ns duration. With a validated model for the electrically pumped organic light-emitting diode (OLED), we simulate the generation of light pulses. This light is fed into the organic laser section, where it optically pumps the emitting organic medium. The full model includes field-enhanced Langevin recombination in the OLED, Stoke-shifted reabsorption in both the OLED and organic laser, and an optical cavity in the latter. We numerically demonstrate 2 GHz modulation and conjecture the feasibility of ~0.025 Mb/s data transmission with this device.
Optimization of Transverse OAM Transmission through Few-Mode Fiber
Authors: Zhang Chong , Cao Qian , Zhan Qiwen
Published: April 2024

Spatiotemporal optical vortex (STOV) wavepacket is a new type of vortex optical field carrying transverse orbital angular momentum (OAM). Due to the presence of imbalanced dispersion and diffraction phase, the STOV pulse undergoes fragmentation during free space propagation, leading to the disappearance of the spatiotemporal vortex phase structure. For practical applications, having a stable long-distance propagation of STOV pulse is critical. Recent work demonstrates the transmission of transverse OAM in few-mode fiber. However, the maximum transmission distance is limited to 100 cm due to excessive group velocity dispersion between modes. In this work, we optimize the transmission of transverse OAM by engineering fiber parameters. By tuning the radius of the fiber core and the relative refractive index difference, the group time delay difference values between the LP01 and LP11 modes and their corresponding group velocity dispersion coefficients are minimized. The simulation results show that the optimized fiber allows the first-order STOV pulse to propagate up to 500 cm, and the second-order STOV pulse up to 300 cm without distorting the spatiotemporal vortex phase structure. Long-distance propagation of STOV pulse can create new opportunities and facilitate applications such as developing novel transverse OAM lasers and telecommunication approaches.
Long-Lasting Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized with Tagetes erecta and Their Antibacterial Activity against Erwinia amylovora, a Serious Rosaceous Pathogen
Authors: Zarate-Escobedo Johana , Zavaleta-Mancera Hilda Araceli , Soto-Hernández Ramón Marcos , Pérez-Rodríguez Paulino , Vilchis-Nestor Alfredo Rafael , Silva-Rojas Hilda Victoria , Trejo-Téllez Libia Iris
Published: April 2024

A rapid, eco-friendly, and simple method for the synthesis of long-lasting (2 years) silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is reported using aqueous leaf and petal extracts of Tagetes erecta L. The particles were characterized using UV-Visible spectrophotometry and the analytical and crystallographic techniques of transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The longevity of the AgNPs was studied using UV-Vis and high-resolution TEM. The antibacterial activity of the particles against Erwinia amylovora was evaluated using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. The results were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey’s test (p ≤ 0.05). Both the leaf and petal extracts produced AgNPs, but the leaf extract (1 mL) was long-lasting and quasi-spherical (17.64 ± 8.87 nm), with an absorbance of UV-Vis λmax 433 and a crystalline structure (fcc, 111). Phenols, flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids which are associated with -OH, C=O, and C=C were identified in the extracts and could act as reducing and stabilizing agents. The best antibacterial activity was obtained with a nanoparticle concentration of 50 mg AgNPs L−1. The main contribution of the present research is to present a sustainable method for producing nanoparticles which are stable for 2 years and with antibacterial activity against E. amylovora, one of most threatening pathogens to pear and apple productions.
Estimating Transcriptome Diversity and Specialization in Capsicum annuum L.
Authors: Ochoa-Alejo Neftalí , Reyes-Valdés M. Humberto , Martínez Octavio
Published: April 2024

Chili pepper fruits of the genus Capsicum represent excellent experimental models to study the growth, development, and ripening processes in a non-climacteric species at the physiological, biochemical, and molecular levels. Fruit growth, development, and ripening involve a complex, harmonious, and finely controlled regulation of gene expression. The purpose of this study was to estimate the changes in transcriptome diversity and specialization, as well as gene specificities during fruit development in this crop, and to illustrate the advantages of estimating these parameters. To achieve these aims, we programmed and made publicly available an R package. In this study, we applied these methods to a set of 179 RNA-Seq libraries from a factorial experiment that includes 12 different genotypes at various stages of fruit development. We found that the diversity of the transcriptome decreases linearly from the flower to the mature fruit, while its specialization follows a complex and non-linear behavior during this process. Additionally, by defining sets of genes with different degrees of specialization and applying Gene Ontology enrichment analysis, we identified processes, functions, and components that play a central role in particular fruit development stages. In conclusion, the estimation of diversity, specialization, and specificity summarizes the global properties of the transcriptomes, providing insights that are difficult to achieve by other means.