bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mueller-Weiss Syndrome, a Rare Cause of Flatfoot: Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopedics, Nepal Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Gokarneshwar, Nepal., Sitaula Prasamsha
Published: December 2024

Introduction: There are numerous causes of flatfoot, among them osteonecrosis of the navicular bone, a rare disease known as Mueller-Weiss syndrome, also leads to deformity

Case Report: A 53-year-old male presented to our Outpatient Department with pain and swelling over bilateral foot for 3 years with increased severity in the left. Physical examination as well as footprint revealed a bilateral flat foot, and there was tenderness as well as swelling over the dorsomedial aspect of bilateral foot. After a detailed physical examination and radiological assessment, the case was diagnosed as Mueller-Weiss syndrome. He was treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, custom ankle-foot orthotic brace for 6 weeks, and activity modification and symptoms were relieved and he was able to do daily activities without any discomfort.

Conclusion: MW syndrome is a rare condition, where conservative treatment provides better results if it is diagnosed and treated early, whereas late cases require surgical intervention.

Keywords: Flat foot, Mueller-Weiss syndrome, Osteonecrosis of navicular bone.
Alternative Management Approach for Infected Gap Non-Union of Both Bone Forearms – A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India., Srikanth I Muni , Sreenivas Kalyan Deepak ,   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India., Abraham Vineet Thomas ,   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India., Talwar Pratik ,   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Infected gap non-union is a serious complication seen in cases of diaphyseal fracture of forearm bones. It carries high morbidity in the form of severe functional impairment and poses a challenge to treat due to the complex anatomical relationship and articulations involved. Though there are multiple treatment options available, there are no guidelines for its management. Each case is unique and requires a customized, patient-specific approach.

Case Report: A 43-year-old man sustained a road traffic accident with closed both bone forearm fracture 6 months ago and was treated elsewhere with open reduction plate fixation of the radius, and Kirchner wire fixation of the ulna. Subsequently, he developed a purulent discharging sinus from the surgical site. After 7 months, following a trivial injury, the patient developed a deformity in his forearm. X-ray findings revealed a bent radial plate, signs of osteolysis, implant loosening along with displaced shaft of ulna fracture. The patient underwent implant removal with radial shortening and plate osteosynthesis for radius and ulna.

Conclusion: In cases of infected gap non-union of radius and ulna, the key for management is thorough debridement with retention of vascularity by minimal soft tissue damage, followed by rigid fixation of the fracture. Simultaneously, adequate steps should be taken to manage the infection, such as culture-specific antibiotics and monitoring of inflammatory markers such as complete blood count, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein.

Keywords: Forearm, infected non-union, plate osteosynthesis, docking, radius, ulna.
Incidental Detection of Bilateral Tarsal 3rd Middle Phalangeal Bipartition in the Emergency Department: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, School of Medicine, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey,, Şişman Uluman , Eren Mehmet ,   Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, School of Medicine, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey,, Gönen Emel ,   Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, School of Medicine, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey,
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Bipartite bone formation is a congenital variation occurring due to the incomplete ossification of newly forming bones in the body. The patella and sesamoid bones are the most common bipartite bone sites. However, some unusual bones can also have this kind of variation and it is important to diagnose them correctly and avoid unnecessary overtreatment. Such unique conditions are being presented as individual case reports and published. Although distal phalangeal bipartition is reported before, to our knowledge, this is the first and only case to be reported to have bipartition in the tarsal middle phalanges in the literature.

Case Report: In this case report, we are presenting the case of a 10-year-old boy, who presented to the Emergency Department due to a glass cut to the plantar site of the right foot, and bipartition in the 3rd middle phalanges of both feet has been found in the radiographies.

Conclusion: Differentiating bipartite bone formations from fractures is important in the clinical setting. Unique presentations of these bony formations, such as tarsal middle phalanges as in our case, should be considered. By doing so, overtreatment and unnecessary interventions can be prevented.

Keywords: Bipartite, middle phalanx, variation, tarsal phalanges, case report.
A Case of Complex Deformity of Knee Corrected by Ilizarov Fixation in a Teenage Patient
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India., Nihal Syed , G Pugazhendhi ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India., Gandhi Subramanya ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India., Selvan Prithivi ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: After the spine, the knee is the second most common location for skeletal tuberculosis. An unusual complication of tuberculosis infection is triple knee deformity. The combination of knee flexion, posterolateral tibial subluxation, and external tibial rotation over femoral condyles manifests as a severe deformity. Currently, a variety of surgical intervention techniques are recommended for knee deformity correction, including the use of an Ilizarov ring fixator or limb reconstruction system, total knee arthroplasty, and arthrodesis with synovectomy.

Case Report: A 17-year-old adolescent with a 2-year limping history and left knee flexion deformity and swelling was examined. The patient was treated with anti-tuberculosis therapy for 9 months after being diagnosed as having pulmonary tuberculosis. The results of the left knee synovial fluid aspiration revealed confirmation of tuberculosis knee. The Ilizarov technique was used to treat the patient’s 95° fixed flexion deformity of the knee which was associated with painful jog of movements.

Conclusion: The Ilizarov procedure has been regarded as the best way to treat complicated deformities of the knee caused by tuberculosis sequelae because it has great clinical results and few side effects.

Keywords: Complex knee deformity, tuberculosis, Ilizarov fixator.
Infrapatellar Fat Pad Calcification: A Case Series and a Narrative Review
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, 166 Military Hospital, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, India,, Thakur Kamparsh , Sharma Akshay ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Military Hospital Jaipur, Rajasthan, India,, Aithmia Rashmi ,   Department of Pathology, Government Medical College, Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, India,, Mahajan Saurabh ,   Department of Community Medicine, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India,, Sood Chetan ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India,, Prasad Manish ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Indian Field Hospital Level II Plus, UNMISS, Juba, South Sudan.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) calcification is a rarely reported entity in the literature. Only a few cases have been reported so far and that too as case reports. The authors in the present study present two cases of IFP calcification. We also did a thorough review of the literature on the clinical presentation, etiology, and management of the rarely reported entity and present it as a narrative review.

Materials and Methods: Cases: Three cases managed by the authors are presented as case reports. A narrative review of the PubMed and Cochrane database was carried out using MeSH headings and subheadings in various combinations (i.e., IFP calcification and IFP calcified mass and para-articular osteochondroma knee and Hoffa’s fat pad calcification). The data from the previous studies and case reports were extracted (Age, sex, symptoms, duration of symptoms, management, and pathological assessment).

Results: We in this study present 03 cases who had presented with large IFP mass with calcification on radiographs. They underwent excision of the mass and had an uneventful recovery. Narrative review of the literature was done which showed 36 such cases in 26 studies which were reported so far with a calcified mass in the IFP. The mean age of presentation was 49.64 years (16–78 years). The duration of symptoms varied from 02 to 360 months. The average volume of the mass excised was 99.91 cc. The management was excision of the mass in all except two cases, who underwent total knee arthroplasty and one which was managed conservatively. The lesions were benign in nature on clinical presentation and on histopathological assessment.

Conclusion: IFP has no clearly defined function and role; however, it is known to harbor various pathologies. These can present as a calcified mass on radiographs and are generally benign in nature. The management primarily is excision in majority of the cases.

Keywords: Infrapatellar fat pad, calcification, calcified mass.
Improvement of the mechanical and microstructural properties of the materials used for armour by surface deposition using the Cold Spray method
Authors: LUPU Fabian Cezar , MUNTEANU Corneliu , ISTRATE Bogdan
Published: December 2024

Superficial depositions gain interest in various industries due to the significant improvement of the properties of the base material that is subjected to superficial depositions. The deposits can be made both in the technological process of manufacturing the various components and in the reconditioning processes of the components with high levels of wear. Superficial coatings are applied with the aim of creating a protective surface layer, that is hard and resistant to both external factors and various demands. Depending on the nature of the application of the component, to be coated the mechanical, microstructural, thermal, corrosion resistance, etc. properties can be improved. The objective of this work is to demonstrate the ability of thermal deposition to improve the mechanical and microstructural properties of materials used in the construction of armour for military equipment using the Cold Spray (CS) thermal deposition method. Among all the deposition methods, this method is the only one that manages to deposit the particles below their melting point, having the lowest deposition temperatures, thus preserving the properties of the deposited material. This paper presents experimental results for armor elements that are subjected to severe exploitation regimes and contributes to the scientific progress in the field of deposits applicable to most industries such as petrochemical, military, aerospace, automotive, and medical.
Optical power-handling capabilities and temporal dynamics of reconfigurable phase-change metasurfaces
Authors: Braid George , Ruiz de Galarreta Carlota , Pady Joe , Comley Andrew , Bertolotti Jacopo , Wright C. David
Published: December 2024

Metasurfaces based on chalcogenide phase-change materials offer a highly promising route towards the realization of non-volatile reconfigurable metasurfaces. However, since their switching mechanism between amorphous and crystalline states is based on thermal stimuli, phase-change metasurfaces should be treated carefully when operating under high power laser sources, since optically induced heating could trigger unwanted state changes during their operation. In this work, therefore, we develop a thermodynamic model capable of tracking the crystallization, melting and reamorphization dynamics of phase-change optical metadevices, and so too their optical performance, when operating under (i.e., aiming to control) high power laser sources. Our model is used, by way of example, to ascertain the optical power-handling capabilties of two typical phase-change metasurface architectures, one for beam steering and one for active lensing.
Not just a garbage truck: No-go decay plays a role during embryo development in zebrafish
Authors: Plastrik Alana R. , Zaher Hani S.
Published: December 2024

In eukaryotes, defective mRNAs that impede the movement of the ribosome are subject to rapid decay via no-go decay (NGD). In this issue of PLOS Biology, Ishibashi and colleagues expand on the role of NGD and reveal new endogenous targets for the process in zebrafish.
Exploring the link between dietary thiamine and type 2 diabetes mellitus risk in US adults aged 45 years and older: Insights from a cross-sectional investigation
Authors: Lin Hong , Gao Zhengwei , Ni Hengfan , Li Jian , Liu Haoran , Qin Bo , He Zhiyao , Jin Zhaohui
Published: December 2024

The correlation between dietary thiamine intake and the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains a subject of controversy within the academic community. While numerous studies have attempted to elucidate this relationship, conclusive evidence remains elusive. A survey of U.S. adults aged 45 years and older examined the supposed association between dietary thiamine intake and the risk of developing T2DM with the aim of clarifying the potential link. In this cross-sectional investigation, we evaluated dietary thiamine intake data sourced from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2020. Using weighted multivariate logistic regression analysis, we assessed the potential risk of T2DM associated with varying levels of thiamine intake. The observation of nonlinear relationships was accomplished by fitting smoothed curves. This study ultimately included 15,231 participants aged 45 years and older. Dietary thiamine intake (after log transformation) was inversely related to T2DM after accounting for potential confounders (OR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.78, 0.95). An increase in dietary thiamine intake by one unit is associated with a 14% reduction in the risk of T2DM. Furthermore, our analysis revealed that the associations between dietary thiamine intake and T2DM risk, such as age, gender, race, smoking status, alcohol use, hypertension, body mass index (BMI), and cardiovascular disease (CVD), remained consistent across multiple stratified subgroups (p values >0.05). According to this study, dietary thiamine intake may be associated with the incidence of T2DM among US residents aged 45 years and older. Appropriate increases in dietary thiamine intake are expected to offer substantial preventive potential for T2DM and significant clinical implications.
Development of a novel methodology for ascertaining scientific opinion and extent of agreement
Authors: Vickers Peter , Adamo Ludovica , Alfano Mark , Clark Cory , Cresto Eleonora , Cui He , Dang Haixin , Dellsén Finnur , Dupin Nathalie , Gradowski Laura , Graf Simon , Guevara Aline , Hallap Mark , Hamilton Jesse , Hardey Mariann , Helm Paula , Landrum Asheley , Levy Neil , Machery Edouard , Mills Sarah , Muller Seán , Sheppard Joanne , N. K. Shinod , Slater Matthew , Stegenga Jacob , Strandin Henning , Stuart Michael T. , Sweet David , Tasdan Ufuk , Taylor Henry , Towler Owen , Tulodziecki Dana , Tworek Heidi , Wallbank Rebecca , Wiltsche Harald , Mitchell Finnigan Samantha
Published: December 2024

We take up the challenge of developing an international network with capacity to survey the world’s scientists on an ongoing basis, providing rich datasets regarding the opinions of scientists and scientific sub-communities, both at a time and also over time. The novel methodology employed sees local coordinators, at each institution in the network, sending survey invitation emails internally to scientists at their home institution. The emails link to a ‘10 second survey’, where the participant is presented with a single statement to consider, and a standard five-point Likert scale. In June 2023, a group of 30 philosophers and social scientists invited 20,085 scientists across 30 institutions in 12 countries to participate, gathering 6,807 responses to the statement Science has put it beyond reasonable doubt that COVID-19 is caused by a virus. The study demonstrates that it is possible to establish a global network to quickly ascertain scientific opinion on a large international scale, with high response rate, low opt-out rate, and in a way that allows for significant (perhaps indefinite) repeatability. Measuring scientific opinion in this new way would be a valuable complement to currently available approaches, potentially informing policy decisions and public understanding across diverse fields.
In vivo scanning laser fundus and high-resolution OCT imaging of retinal ganglion cell injury in a non-human primate model with an activatable fluorescent-labeled TAT peptide probe
Authors: Qiu Xudong , Gammon Seth T. , Rasmussen Carol , Pisaneschi Federica , Kim Charlene B. Y. , Ver Hoeve James , Millward Steven W. , Barnett Edward M. , Nork T. Michael , Kaufman Paul L. , Piwnica-Worms David
Published: December 2024

The optical imaging agent TcapQ488 has enabled imaging of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) injury in vivo in rodents and has potential as an effective diagnostic probe for early detection and intervention monitoring in glaucoma patients. In the present study, we investigated TcapQ488 in non-human primates (NHPs) to identify labeling efficacy and early signals of injured RGC, to determine species-dependent changes in RGC probe uptake and clearance, and to determine dose-limiting toxicities. Doses of 3, 6, and 12 nmol of TcapQ488 were delivered intravitreally to normal healthy NHP eyes and eyes that had undergone hemiretinal endodiathermy axotomy (HEA) in the inferior retina. Post-injection fundus fluorescence imaging using a Spectralis imaging platform (Heidelberg Engineering) documented TcapQ488 activation in RGC cell bodies. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), slit-lamp examinations, intraocular pressure measurements, and visual electrophysiology testing were performed to monitor probe tolerability. For comparison, a negative control, non-cleavable, non-quenched probe (dTcap488, 6 nmol), was delivered intravitreally to a normal healthy eye. In normal healthy eyes, intravitreal injection of 3 nmol of TcapQ488 was well-tolerated, while 12 nmol of TcapQ488 to the healthy eye caused extensive probe activation in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) and eventual retinal nerve fiber layer thinning. In HEA eyes, the HEA procedure followed by intravitreal TcapQ488 (3 nmol) injection resulted in probe activation within cell bodies in the GCL, confined to the HEA-treated inferior retina, indicating cell injury and slow axonal transport in the GCL. However, in contrast to rodents, a vitreal haze that lasted 2–12 weeks obscured rapid high-resolution imaging of the fundus. By contrast, intravitreal TcapQ488 injection prior to the HEA procedure led to minimal probe labeling in the GCL. The results of the dTcap488 control experiments indicated that fast axonal transport carried the probe out of the retina after cell body uptake. No evidence of pan-retinal toxicity or loss of retino-cortical function was detected in any of the three NHPs tested. Overall, these data provide evidence of TcapQ488 activation, without toxicity, in NHP HEA eyes that had been intravitreally injected with 3 nmol of the probe. Compared to rodents, unexpectedly rapid axonal transport in the NHPs reduced the capacity to visualize RGC cell bodies and axons through the backdrop of an intravitreal haze. Nonetheless, although intravitreal clearance rates did not scale to NHPs, HEA-induced reductions in axonal transport enhanced probe visualization in the cell body.
Essential and toxic metal concentrations in biological samples of multiple sclerosis patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kooshki Alireza , Farmani Reyhane , Amirabadizadeh Alireza , Mehrpour Omid , Sanjari Mohammad Javad , Nakhaee Samaneh
Published: December 2024

The role of trace elements and toxic metals on human health has been extensively discussed concerning disease pathogenesis and risk factors of diseases. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to investigate arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and magnesium (Mg) levels in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) and healthy controls. We searched different databases/search engines for this systematic review and meta-analysis, including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, until June 27, 2024. Out of 5466 studies identified, 65 met our eligibility criteria and were included in the systematic review. For the meta-analysis, 58 studies with 10420 participants (5316 multiple sclerosis patients and 5104 healthy controls) had adequate data for inclusion. Results from the pooled data, analyzed using a random-effects model, revealed higher levels of As (Hedge’s g = 4.00 μg/l, 95% CI = 2.03 to 5.98, P <0.001; I2 = 97.69%, P<0.001) and Cd (Hedge’s g = 1.20 μg/l, 95% CI = 0.13 to 2.27, P = 0.028; I2 = 97.99%, P<0.001) in multiple sclerosis patients compared to healthy ones. However, no significant differences were observed in the concentrations of Zn, Fe, Mg, and Pb between the two groups. This study identified elevated As and Cd levels in MS patients, indicating the need for targeted interventions and public health guidelines for toxic metal exposure. Limiting exposure to contaminated environments and maintaining essential element levels through natural resources or supplements is essential, as there may be a possible relationship between multiple sclerosis and the concentrations of these elements in humans.
Roles of host and environment in shift of primary anthrax host species in Kruger National Park
Authors: Ochai Sunday O. , Snyman Lourens , Dolfi Amelie C. , Ramoelo Abel , Reilly Brian K. , Botha Judith M. , Dekker Edgar H. , van Schalkwyk O. Louis , Kamath Pauline L. , Archer Emma , Turner Wendy C. , van Heerden Henriette
Published: December 2024

Environmental and climatic factors, as well as host demographics and behaviour, significantly influence the exposure of herbivorous mammalian hosts to pathogens such as Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax. Until the early 1990s in Kruger National Park (KNP), kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) was the host species most affected by anthrax, with outbreaks occurring predominantly in the dry season, particularly during drought cycles. However, the most affected host species has shifted to impala (Aepyceros melampus), with more frequent anthrax outbreaks during the wet season. This study investigates the roles of environmental variation and other host species in this shift. Temporal trends in environmental variables such as precipitation, soil moisture, temperature, and normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) were analyzed in relation to anthrax occurrence (presence/ absence and counts). Additionally, correlations between host species’ densities and anthrax mortalities over time were examined. Anthrax cases in 1990 were concentrated in the central and northern regions of KNP(excluding Pafuri), primarily affected kudus; while subsequent mortalities affected mostly impala and were restricted to the far north, in Pafuri. Significant correlations were found between kudu anthrax mortality and a decrease in NDVI, average temperature, SPI-6 and SPI-12 (Standardised Precipitation Index in various time intervals. Conversely, anthrax occurrence in impalas was associated with a decline in SPI-3, and temperature rise, with increased mortality during the rainy season. Elephant density correlated negatively with kudu mortality, but a positive correlation with both impala mortality and impala density. The study concludes that environmental variables and species’ densities may alter the diversity and frequency of hosts exposed to B. anthracis. Climate extremes and alterations therein may exacerbate anthrax severity by modifying species susceptibility and their probability of exposure over time.
Assessment of front and back of pack nutrition labels of selected convenience food products and snacks available in the Indian market
Authors: Shobana Shanmugam , Sangavi Gopalakrishnan , Wuni Ramatu , Priyanka Bakshi , Leelavady Arun , Kayalvizhi Dhanushkodi , Mohan Anjana Ranjit , Krishnaswamy Kamala , Vimaleswaran Karani Santhanakrishnan , Mohan Viswanathan
Published: December 2024

Nutrition labels on packaged food items provide at-a-glance information about the nutritional composition of the food, serving as a quick guide for consumers to assess the quality of food products. The aim of the current study is to evaluate the nutritional information on the front and back of pack labels of selected packaged foods in the Indian market. A total of 432 food products in six categories (idli mix, breakfast cereals, porridge mix, soup mix, beverage mix and extruded snacks) were investigated by a survey. Nutritional profiling of the foods was done based on the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) claims regulations. The healthiness of the packaged foods was assessed utilising nutritional traffic light system. The products were classified into ‘healthy’, ‘moderately healthy’ and ‘less healthy’ based on the fat, saturated fat, and sugar content. Most of the food products evaluated belong to healthy’ and ‘moderately healthy’ categories except for products in extruded snacks. Reformulation of ‘extruded snacks’ are necessary to decrease the total and saturated fat content. The nutrient content claims were classified using the International Network for Food and Obesity / NCDs Research, Monitoring and Action Support (INFORMAS) taxonomy. Protein, dietary fibre, fat, sugar, vitamins and minerals were the most referred nutrients in the nutrient content claims. Breakfast cereal carried highest number of nutritional claims while porridge mix had the lowest number of claims. The overall compliance of the nutrient content claims for the studied food products is 80.5%. This study gives an overall view about the nutritional quality of the studied convenience food products and snacks in Indian market.
Research on complex dynamic behavior of automakers based on complex system theory
Authors: Tang Jinhuan , Si Xinying , Wu Qiong , Li Xiangchen
Published: December 2024

"Prevent minor issues before they become major problems, and prepare for the future." This study utilizes complex system theory to introduce a nonlinear dynamic system for examining the production and emission reduction strategies of new energy vehicle (NEV) and gasoline vehicle (GV) manufacturers under the dual credit (DC) policy over a long-term game process. By considering production delays, we analyze dynamic behaviors within a duopoly automotive system, including stable regions, bifurcation, chaotic attractors, and the Largest Lyapunov exponent (LLE). The results show that: (1) As production and carbon emission adjustment parameters increase, the decision-making system for both automakers can slip into disorder, posing a risk of disruption within the automotive industry. (2) In stable regions, GVs’ carbon emission adjustments do not affect the production of either NEVs or GVs, while NEVs demonstrate greater flexibility in production adjustments compared to GVs. (3) The industry system will likely benefit from delay production decisions that could help stabilize the automobile market. The study provides theoretical support for the smooth transformation of old and new driving forces in the automobile industry.
Effects of probiotic supplementation on the anthropometric nutritional status of patients with type 2 Diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Ribeiro Dálete Assíria de Souza , de Araújo Anny Cristine , do Nascimento Priscila Kelly da Silva Bezerra , da Rocha Ilanna Marques Gomes , Rezende Adriana Augusto de
Published: December 2024

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is characterized by hyperglycemia due to insufficient insulin production or utilization. Previous studies have shown a relationship between the gut microbiota and DM, driving interest in probiotic supplementation to modulate the microbiota and glucose metabolism in patients with DM, although the exact mechanisms remain unclear. Probiotics can influence metabolic factors and improve the composition of the microbiota, possibly helping to reduce weight in patients with DM.

Objective

The objective of this review is to compile and analyze the most relevant evidence on the effects of probiotic supplementation on the nutritional anthropometric status of patients with type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

Methodological guidelines will be followed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement and the study has been registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews under reference number CRD42023480243. Studies will be selected through an active search of the PubMed, Science Direct, and SCOPUS databases using the following search descriptors: gut microbiota, body weight, and metabolic diseases, according to medical subject headings. The assessment of the methodological quality of the studies will be carried out using the Cochrane Collaboration instrument. The risk of bias will be analyzed using the Revised Cochrane tool for risk of bias in randomized controlled trials (RoB 2). A meta-analysis will be performed if heterogeneity is acceptable and justifiable; otherwise, the results will be presented in a qualitative narrative synthesis.

Expected results

The results of probiotic supplementation are expected to demonstrate improvements in anthropometric parameters such as body weight, BMI and abdominal and waist circumference in patients with T2DM, thus providing valuable evidence for clinical application.
Cell modeling using frequency modulation
Authors: Jacob Jerry , Patel Nitish , Sehgal Sucheta
Published: December 2024

Computational models of the cell can be used to study the impact of drugs and assess pathological risks. Typically, these models are computationally demanding or challenging to implement in dedicated hardware for real-time emulation. A new Frequency Modulation (FM) model is proposed to address these limitations. This model utilizes a single sine generator with constant amplitude, while phase and frequency are modulated to emulate an action potential (AP). The crucial element of this model is the identification of the modulating signal. Focusing on FPGA implementation, we have employed a piecewise linear polynomial with a fixed number of breakpoints to serve as the modulating signal. The adaptability of this signal permits the emulation of dynamic properties and the coupling of cells. Additionally, we have introduced a state controller that handles both of these requirements. The building blocks of the FM model have direct integer equivalents, making them suitable for implementation on digital platforms like Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA). We have demonstrated wavefront propagation in 1-D and 2-D models of tissue. We have used various parameters to quantify the wavefront propagation in 2-D tissues and emulated specific cellular dysfunctions. The FM model can replicate any detailed cell model and emulate its corresponding tissue model. This model is at its preliminary stage. The FPGA implementation of this model is a work in progress. Overall, the results demonstrate that the FM model has the potential for real-time cell and tissue emulation on an FPGA.
A educação geográfica no ensino e aprendizagem das áreas de riscos ambientais por eventos hidrológicos em Cajuri/Minas Gerais/Brasil: o lugar, os escolares e suas percepções de risco
Authors: Celestino Sáhira Michele da Silva , Zacharias Andréa Aparecida , Faria André Luiz Lopes de , Souza Rita de Cássia de , Castro Fátima Velez de
Published: December 2024

A incidência dos desastres naturais no Brasil, sobretudo nas áreas urbanas, intensificado pelo processo de urbanização e industrialização, tem deixado em alerta toda a população devido aos riscos ambientais. Nos últimos dez anos, a população brasileira, em especial do estado de Minas Gerais, vem se destacando como um dos mais atingidos pelos desastres naturais associados a chuva. Compreendendo a escola como espaço de discussão e disseminação de conhecimentos, a Geografia é capaz de trazer a compreensão e respostas para os riscos ambientais enfrentados no lugar. Desse modo, com o intuito de promover discussões e reflexões na interface de três campos - Geografia, Riscos e Educação – o objetivo da pesquisa foi apontar caminhos para trabalhar o enfrentamento dos riscos ambientais em Cajuri/Minas Gerais/Brasil por meio do ensino de Geografia nas escolas locais e percepção dos riscos, a partir da perspectiva construcionista e pesquisa participante-colaborativa. A intervenção da educação geográfica nos processos do ensino e aprendizagem foi essencial para apontar caminhos estratégicos de mitigação do risco através da sistematização coletiva de um Atlas Municipal Escolar de Cajuri/MG, cujas informações sobre a geograficidade, a historicidade e os diferentes ambientes da paisagem urbana e rural, possibilitarão novos conhecimentos e percepção sobre o lugar, entendendo suas dinâmicas, interações e conflitos que potencializam os riscos ambientais.
Comparison of hair steroid levels among Wistar rats exposed to different environmental enrichment settings
Authors: Elmi Alberto , Vannetti Niccolò I. , Galligioni Viola , Govoni Nadia , Aniballi Camilla , Sánchez-Morgado José M. , Bacci Maria L. , Ventrella Domenico
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim: Environmental enrichment (EE) is a pivotal tool for creating ideal housing conditions that allow animals to fully display their ethograms. At the micro-environmental level, they should elicit cognitive and social responses and increase physical activities. Hair steroids may be among the best biomarkers to evaluate the effects of prolonged exposure to different enrichments because they are non-invasive and provide information regarding a longer period. This study aimed to compare the hair steroid profiles, specifically corticosterone, cortisol, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), of Wistar rats exposed to two different EE settings.

Materials and Methods: Twenty (n = 20) outbred Wistar rats were enrolled in this study. First hair collection (T0) was performed 3 days before weaning (at 28 days of life), and then Wistar rats were randomly divided into two equal groups with a sex ratio of 1:1: standard EE group, provided with one rat tunnel, and extra EE group, provided with an additional tunnel hanging from the top of the cage. Environmental conditions were 20°C–24°C, 45%–65% relative humidity, and a 12:12 dark/light cycle, with water and pelleted diet ad libitum. The rats were housed in ventilated cages with poplar bedding and nesting material. Hair was sampled again after 3 months (T1). Steroids were quantified using radioimmunoassay or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay after methanol extraction.

Results: Cortisol was not quantifiable, while corticosterone and DHEA were. After 3 months of exposure (T1), no differences were noted between the experimental groups. On data categorization per sex, females showed higher levels of all steroids than males. In males, the extra EE group had higher corticosterone levels.

Conclusion: This study showed that corticosterone and DHEA are quantifiable in rats’ hair, yet bigger datasets are needed to better understand the physiological levels of these hormones in such a matrix. Different enrichment settings induced differences between and within sex.

Keywords: 3Rs, biomarker, environmental enrichment, Rattus norvegicus, refinement, steroid, welfare.
Experimental of verification of alternative hydraulic binders flexural and compressive strength
Authors: Palička Aleš , Prošek Zdeněk , Tesárek Pavel
Published: December 2024

The paper deals with the investigation of alternative binders, namely the two available samples N6 and N7 with comparison from the reference sample CEM I 42.5R. Both testing binders are provided by company Destro. It is a product that contains different ratios of fly ash and slag. By examining the properties, the mix was compared in different proportions and subsequently tested for flexural strength and compressive strength. The results showed the effect of curing time and cement to binder ratio after 28 and 84 days.
QCT/FEA analyses of palateless splinted and unsplinted maxillary all-on-4 systems
Authors: Řehounek Luboš , Frolo Mária , Jíra Aleš
Published: December 2024

The goal of the presented study was to determine the viability of using splinted and unsplinted maxillary implant-supported overdentures. The main physical quantity used to evaluate their differences was compressive stress in bone and equivalent (von Mises) stress in the implant and overdenture components. We took a 3D X-ray scan of the maxilla and imported the data into a QCT/FEA (Quantitative Computed Tomography-based Finite Element Analysis) software. The loading was done in three load cases. We designed both models of the overdentures in CAD, included the polyetheretherketone (PEEK) overdenture and analyzed the whole model of the reconstructed maxilla with implants. The results show worse (more concentrated) compressive stress distributions for the unsplinted locator variant. The splinted, bar-retained variant shows lower values of stress in all load cases. These findings and their potential for real-time selection of the optimal variant are then further discussed.
Book review of: Kabisch, Sigrun; Rink, Dieter; Banzhaf, Ellen (Hrsg.) (2024): Die Resiliente Stadt: Konzepte, Konflikte, Lösungen
Authors: Kegler Harald
Published: December 2024

Buchrezension
Influence of corrosion inhibitors on aging mechanism of epoxy resin coatings for copper 62 alloy in simulated marine environment
Authors: Chen Jingkang , Li Xu , Xiao Xujie , Zhu Chengfei
Published: December 2024

Aiming at the shortcoming that when applied to nonferrous copper 62 surfaces, epoxy coatings are prone to aging in marine environments. In order to extend the service life of copper 62 coatings in marine environments, methods of screening the corrosion inhibitor commonly used in copper 62 alloys and adding it to epoxy organic coatings have been investigated. Tafel polarization test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were used to study the corrosion inhibition effect of different corrosion inhibitors on copper 62 alloy in simulated marine environment, and the influence of MBI on the damage process and water transport of epoxy coatings was studied by EIS. The results show that 2 mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT) has good corrosion inhibition on copper 62 alloy in marine environment. When the total mass fraction is 0.5 wt%, the corrosion suppression can reach 96.4 %. When MBT is added to the epoxy organic coating at 0.5 wt%, the diffusion coefficient of the coating is as low as 8.35 × 10−11 cm2 s−1, and the failure time of the coating is extended to 1824 h. It has been shown that the addition of MBT can effectively improve the service life of copper 62 alloy/epoxy coatings in marine environments.
Copper corrosion mechanisms, influencing factors, and mitigation strategies for water circuits of heat exchangers: critical review and current advances
Authors: Benzarti Zohra , Arrousse Nadia , Serra Ricardo , Cruz Sandra , Bastos Alexandre , Tedim Joao , Salgueiro Rodrigo , Cavaleiro Albano , Carvalho Sandra
Published: December 2024

This review examines copper corrosion mechanisms and their key influencing factors, including microstructure effects, surface treatments, manufacturing conditions, temperature, water chemistry parameters, fluid velocity, and microbial effects in water-based systems, with a particular focus on heat exchangers. This addresses a critical gap in the existing literature, which often examines copper corrosion in a broader context. By critically analyzing the literature, the review provides an in-depth understanding of the factors that govern copper corrosion in heat exchanger applications. Copper corrosion in heat exchangers can have significant technical and social detrimental consequences, leading to substantial economic losses. By focusing on heat exchangers, the review offers valuable insights and best practices for engineers, researchers, and practitioners working with copper in this domain. Furthermore, the review evaluates the latest mitigation strategies, including advancements in material selection, surface treatments, water treatment techniques, and robust monitoring/maintenance methods. Finally, the review explores promising new concepts for corrosion prevention for long-term performance, paving the way for future research in developing innovative technologies and refining highly effective strategies under diverse operating conditions relevant to combat deleterious copper corrosion effects in heat exchanger applications.
Anthroponyms: the lexico-semantic approach to word formation and its social and cultural implications
Authors: Mnaidarova Miramgul , Sarseke Gulnar , Sahin Ibrahim
Published: December 2024

The relevance of the study is that specific individual linguistic customs and traditions are characteristic of each nation. The objective of the study is to examine the key aspects of anthroponyms and the methodology of their development in Turkish and Kazakh languages. In conducting the research, general scientific and special methods were used to achieve its goals and objectives. Its main results can be defined as follows. It was argued that the lexical-semantic approach to word formation is one of the most widespread approaches to the creation of meaningful anthroponyms, reflecting the features and characteristics of the named person. According to the results of the conducted research, the necessity of studying anthroponyms and word formations was revealed and substantiated. The reason for this is that they have an important social and cultural significance in the process of interaction between the peoples of the world, as well as the study of their cultural heritage. The latter is directly related to the fact that personal names express moral and philosophical values of a certain ethos, fix in themselves the history, traditions, and beliefs of a particular society or community. As a result of the research, it was concluded that anthroponyms in the onomastic field of any language of the world are nuclear constituents. At the same time, the whole set of anthroponyms contained in it will be unique, as the factors influencing the speakers of the language will differ.
Algebraic structures formalizing the logic of effect algebras incorporating time dimension
Authors: Chajda Ivan , Länger Helmut
Published: December 2024

Effect algebras were introduced in order to describe the structure of effects, i.e. events in quantum mechanics. They are partial algebras describing the logic behind the corresponding events. It is natural to ask how to introduce the logical connective implication in effect algebras. For lattice-ordered effect algebras this task was already solved by several authors, including the present ones. We concentrate on effect algebras that need not be lattice-ordered since these can better describe the events occurring in the quantum physical system. Although an effect algebra is only partial, we try to find a logical connective implication which is everywhere defined. But such a connective can be “unsharp” or “inexact” because its outputs for given pairs of entries need not be elements of the underlying effect algebra, but may be subsets of (mutually incomparable) maximal elements. We introduce such an implication together with its adjoint functor representing conjunction. Then we consider so-called tense operators on effect algebras. Of course, also these operators turn out to be “unsharp” in the aforementioned sense, but they are in a certain relation with the operators implication and conjunction. Finally, for given tense operators and given time set T, we describe two methods how to construct a time preference relation R on T such that the given tense operators are either comparable with or equivalent to those induced by the time frame (T, R).
Several sharp inequalities involving (hyperbolic) tangent, tanc, cosine, and their reciprocals
Authors: Li Wen-Hui , Guo Bai-Ni
Published: December 2024

In the paper, in view of two monotonicity rules for the ratios of two functions and of two Maclaurin power series expansions, the authors establish several sharp inequalities involving (hyperbolic) tangent, tanc, cosine, and their reciprocals.
A new Approach of Generalized Fractional Integrals in Multiplicative Calculus and Related Hermite–Hadamard-Type Inequalities with Applications
Authors: Ali Muhammad Aamir , Fečkan Michal , Promsakon Chanon , Sitthiwirattham Thanin
Published: December 2024

The primary goal of this paper is to define Katugampola fractional integrals in multiplicative calculus. A novel method for generalizing the multiplicative fractional integrals is the Katugampola fractional integrals in multiplicative calculus. The multiplicative Hadamard fractional integrals are also novel findings of this research and may be derived from the special situations of Katugampola fractional integrals. These integrals generalize to multiplicative Riemann–Liouville fractional integrals and multiplicative Hadamard fractional integrals. Moreover, we use the Katugampola fractional integrals to prove certain new Hermite–Hadamard and trapezoidal-type inequalities for multiplicative convex functions. Additionally, it is demonstrated that several of the previously established inequalities are generalized from the newly derived inequalities. Finally, we give some computational analysis of the inequalities proved in this paper.
Self referred equations with an integral boundary condition
Authors: Chiriatti Giacomo , Fasiello Matteo , Grande Raffaele , Pascali Eduardo
Published: December 2024

In this note, we study three differential problems with a dynamic, which are be represented by a self referred equation and a boundary condition, which are expressed as an integral constraint. We prove that under certain assumptions, there exists at least one solution of for all of these problems by using Schauder’s fixed point theorem. In the end, we propose briefly some open problems.
Effect of heat treatment on interface characteristics and mechanical properties of explosive welded Cu/Ti composites
Authors: Yıldırım Mehmet Serkan , Kaya Yakup
Published: December 2024

Copper and titanium plates were used in the studies. Explosive welding (EW) processes were carried out using different explosive rates. The resulting composite plates were heat treated at different temperatures. Various tests were then carried out on samples with and nonheat treatment. In the SEM studies, it was observed that a flat interface shape was formed in the joints where the lowest explosive rate (R = 2.5) was used, but as the explosive rate increased, the interface shape became wavy. It was also found that a thickening diffusion layer formed as the heat treatment temperature increased. As a result of XRD and EDS analyses, it was found that Cu4Ti, CuTi2, CuTi, CuTi3, Cu3Ti2, and Cu4Ti3 intermetallic phases could be formed because of the high explosive rate and heat treatment applications. Increasing the amount of explosives increased the tensile-shear strength. However, the heat treatment applied reduced the strength values. No defects were detected in the bending tests performed on all heat-treated and nonheat-treated samples.