bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fat Profiles of Milk and Butter Obtained from Different Dairy Systems (High and Low Pasture) and Seasons (Spring and Fall): Focus on Healthy Fatty Acids and Technological Properties of Butter
Authors: Grille Lucía , Vieitez Ignacio , Garay Andrea , Romero Melissa , Jorcin Santiago , Krall Esteban , Méndez María Noel , Irigaray Bruno , Bejarano Edinson , López-Pedemonte Tomás
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the fatty acid (FAs) profile in milk from commercial farms with varying pasture levels in the diet during spring and fall, and to investigate the physical and chemical properties of butter to assess the impact of FAs on technological and nutritional properties. Milk sampling was conducted biweekly from six farms, categorized into high (HP) and low (LP) pasture treatments based on pasture intake: >60% and <35%, respectively. Butter was made from a pasture-based system (GRZ) and a confined system (C). No differences were observed in milk fat percentage between HP and LP in either season. High pasture had 85-66% more conjugated linoleic acid (CLA, p=0.01), 74-48% more trans-vaccenic acid (TVA, p=0.01), and 21-15% more branched- chain FAs (BCFA, p=0.006) than LP in spring and fall, respectively. In fall, butter from C had lower saturated FAs (SFA, p=0.005), higher unsaturated FAs (UFA, p=0.008), and a lower spreadability index (SI, p=0.005) than GRZ, resulting in softer butter. In conclusion, HP in both seasons had higher contents of FAs considered healthy for consumers compared to LP. Contrary to expectations, in fall, C showed higher UFATVA and lower SFA in butter, leading to better technological characteristics than GRZ.
Using an Ensemble of Machine Learning Algorithms to Predict Economic Recession
Authors: Omolo Leakey , Nguyen Nguyet
Published: August 2024

The Covid19 pandemic and the current wars in some countries have put incredible pressures on the global economy. Challenges for the U.S. include not only economic factors, major disruptions and reorganizations of the supply chains, but also those of national security and global geopolitics. This unprecedented situation makes predicting economic crisis for the coming years crucial yet challenging. In this paper, we propose a method based on various machine-learning models to predict the probability of a recession for the US economy in the next year. We collect the U.S’ monthly macroeconomics indicators and recession data from January of 1983 to December of 2023 to predict the probability of an economic recession in 2024. The performance of the individual economics indicator for the coming year was predicted separately, and then all of the the predicted indicators were used to forecast a possible economic recession. Our results showed that the U.S. will face a high probability of being in a recession period in the last quarter of 2024.
Ergonomic Evaluation of Nail Technicians with Quick Exposure Check
Authors: Ersoy Sedef , Kesiktas Fatma Nur , Ahisha Büşra şirin , Medin Ceylan Cansın , Buğdaycı Derya , Özkoçak Gökhan , Paker Nurdan
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: Nail technicians frequently have musculoskeletal pain, which impairs their job performance. A high-risk profession linked to back discomfort that causes morbidity is nail technician. QEC is a tool used for observing and assessing risks in a work environment. The goal of this research is to assess the ergonomic risks, pain, and their relationship with posture among manicurists. Methods: The 35 nail technicians filled the assessment form which consists of occupational information, pain, European Community Respiratory Health Survey, Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and QEC worker part. Physicians assessed nail technicians’ workspace and QEC outcomes. Results: It was stated that they worked an average of 61.92±11.09 hours per week, served an average of 11±5 customers per day, and their condition lasted 53.96±36.51 months. There is a strong significant correlation between discomforts, time spent in occupation (p=0,000) and working hours. Manicure, pedicure, unwanted hair removal, correction of eyebrow were considered for ergonomic risk evaluation. Each occupation accompanied repeated bad postures. Most of them were scored in very high risk categorization for back static positions (more than 29 point). Conclusions: This study may be useful for nail technicians seeking ergonomic improvements in the areas of engineering, administration, behavior, or personal.
Experimental Study of Sinkhole Propagation Induced by a Leaking Pipe Using Fibre Bragg Grating Sensors
Authors: Yumba Josué , Ferentinou Maria , Grobler Michael
Published: August 2024

Sinkhole formation caused by leaking pipes in karst soluble rocks is a significant concern, leading to infrastructure damage and safety risks. In this paper, an experiment was conducted to investigate sinkhole formation in dense sand induced by a leaking pipe. Fibre Bragg gratings (FBGs) sensors were used to record the strain. A balloon was gradually deflated within a bed of wet silica sand to create an underground cavity. Eighteen FBG sensors, with a wavelength range between 1550 nm and 1560 nm, were embedded horizontally and vertically in the physical model at different levels to monitor deformation at various locations. A leaking pipe was installed to induce the collapse of the formed arch above the cavity. The strain measurements suggest four phases in the sinkhole formation process: (1) cavity formation, (2) progressive weathering and erosion, (3) catastrophic collapse, and (4) subsequent equilibrium conditions. The results showed differences in strain signatures and distributions between horizontal and vertical measurements. During the critical phase of sinkhole collapse, horizontal measurements primarily showed tension, while vertical measurements indicated compression. This investigation demonstrates the effectiveness of FBGs as advanced monitoring tools for sinkhole precursor identification. The study also suggests using FBGs in geotechnical monitoring applications to improve understanding and mitigation of sinkholes and related geohazards.
The Current Principles Define the Isolation of Health-Promoting Substances from Secondary Herbal Materials
Authors: Jakštas Valdas
Published: August 2024

Agricultural waste is rich in bioactive molecules. In evaluating the viability of circular models for the development of health-promotional substances and final products, it is important to highlight that the processing industry of fruits and other valuable herbal materials generates a considerable number of by-products and waste containing health-promoting components. These by-products can be utilized purposefully used in pharmaceuticals and related areas for the development of health promotional products. The linear utilization of agricultural waste results in the loss of a range of valuable bioactive compounds, including polyphenols (anthocyanins, flavonoids, phe-nolic acids, and related compounds), antioxidants from other groups, as well as phytosterols, tocopherols and fatty acids. As an illustrative example, the waste materials of species belonging to the Vaccinium genus represent a notable secondary resource that can be purposefully applied to the development of health-promoting substances. The fruits of these wasted herbal materials have been found to contain reliable polyphenols, which play a pivotal role in the prevention of various chronic conditions, including precancerous conditions, inflammatory diseases and other ailments. In addition, the fruits of blackberries, elderberries, and purple corn which are similarly rich in anthocyanins also provide a promising avenue for further developments. Phenolic compounds suitable for recycling are also found in sugarcane harvesting by-products. Tomato waste contains a significant amount of the valuable carotenoid lycopene. The additional value of the above-mentioned fruit processing by-products may attribute to specified physiological functions, which, if used properly, can contribute to the prevention of certain diseases, and improving of quality of life. This review assessed the scope and gaps in the existing principles on the isolation of health-promoting substances from herbal secondary materials.
Drone-Based Localization of Hazardous Chemicals by Passive Smart Dust
Authors: Nerger Tino , Neumann Patrick P. , Weller Michael G.
Published: August 2024

The distribution of tiny sensors over a specific area was first proposed in the late 1990s as a concept known as Smart Dust. Several efforts focused primarily on computing and networking capabilities but quickly ran into problems related to power supply, cost, data transmission, and environmental pollution. To overcome these limitations, we propose using paper-based (confetti-like) chemosensors that exploit the inherent selectivity of chemical reagents, such as colorimetric indicators. In this work, cheap and biodegradable passive sensors made from cellulose could successfully indicate the presence of hazardous chemicals, e.g., strong acids, by a significant color change. A conventional color digital camera attached to a drone could easily detect this from a safe distance. The collected data was processed to define the hazardous area. Our work presents a combination of the smart dust concept, chemosensing, paper-based sensor technology, and low-cost drones for flexible, sensitive, economical, and rapid detection of hazardous chemicals in high-risk scenarios.
Effects of Fermented Herbal Extract as Phytobiotic on Growth Indices, Moulting Performance, and Feed Utilization of Juvenile Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon Fabr.)
Authors: Ilham Ilham , Sucipto Sucipto , Fujaya Yushinta
Published: August 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of adding fermented herbal extracts (FHE) derived from mulberry leaf (Morus alba), Javanese turmeric (Curcuma xanthorrhiza), and fingerroot (Boesenbergia rotunda) to the diet of tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) on their growth, moulting performance, feed efficiency, and nutrient retention. The main feed used in this trial was a commercially manufactured pellet, then five different doses of FHE supplementation were used: 0 mg/kg feed (P0, control), 50 mg/kg feed (P1), 100 mg/kg feed (P2), 150 mg/kg feed (P3), and 200 mg/kg feed (P4). Weight gain, average daily gain, and length gain of shrimps fed P2 was significantly higher than that of those fed the control diet. Similar result was observed in moulting performance. The application of P2 showed superior results in enhancing the FE of cultured shrimp. Thus, the protein and energy retention of P. monodon was significantly better in P2 treatment groups. P0 had the lowest crude protein, while shrimp given P2 and P3 diets had the highest crude protein content of any treatment group. Based on the findings, it is recommended that the juvenile tiger shrimp diet contain 100 mg/kg of FHE for the best effects.
Series Solution and Its Extension for the Nonlinear Flow Response of Soft Hair Beds
Authors: Sun Bo Hua , Pang Bo , Li Meng
Published: August 2024

In nature and engineering applications, flexible fiber beds covering biological surfaces can play a role in reducing resistance. These fibers deform under the action of fluids, and this deformation affects the fluid flow state, forming a complex fluid-solid interaction phenomenon. To quantitatively analyze such issues, the physical model is simplified to the deformation problem of an soft hair bed caused by Stokes flow, and the deformation problem of a single fiber caused by Stokes flow is further studied. The deformation problem of an elastic single fiber in a channel caused by Stokes flow can be described by a nonlinear integral equation. We have obtained a new series solution, which has been compared with the previous perturbation method to verify the accuracy and effectiveness of the series solution. Meanwhile, we have further provided an extended form of flexible fiber deformation through experimental fitting. This fluid-solid interaction problem involves multiple fields and is very important in many natural and engineering systems. The research in this paper can not only help us better understand complex phenomena in nature but also delve into the interaction mechanism between fluids and solids, providing a theoretical basis for future scientific research and engineering applications.
Analyzing Traditional Building Materials: A Case Study on Repair Practices in Konuralp, Düzce-Türkiye
Authors: Sallı Bideci Özlem , Sabuncu Büşra
Published: August 2024

Some wrong decisions and faulty practices applied during the repair and restoration of traditional buildings cause more damage to the structures due to the materials used in the repair. In this study, brick, mortar, plaster, and wood samples were taken from one registered building in the Konuralp neighborhood of Düzce Province, which has survived to the present day by preserving its original structural features and reflecting the characteristics of traditional housing. Texture, chemical and petrographic analyses were carried out on the samples. In line with these analyses, a scientific basis was created for selecting material properties in the repair and reuse processes of traditional buildings, and suggestions are made for the analysis of materials specific to traditional buildings in Konuralp.
Efficient Forward Modeling of Gravitational Fields in Spherical Harmonic Domain with Application to Lunar Topography
Authors: Zhao Guangdong , Liang Shengxian
Published: August 2024

Gravity forward modeling as a basic tool has been wildly used to topography correction and 3D density inversion. The source region is usually discretized into tesseroid (i.e., spherical prism) to consider the influence of the curvature of planets in global or large-scale problems. Traditional gravity forward modeling methods in spherical coordinates, including the Taylor expansion and Gaussian-Legendre quadrature, are all based on spatial domain, which are mostly low computational efficiency. This study proposes a high-efficient forward modeling method of gravitational fields in spherical harmonic domain, in which the gravity anomalies and gradient tensors can be expressed as spherical harmonic synthesis form of spherical harmonic coefficients of 3D density distribution. A homogeneous spherical shell model has been used to test its effectiveness compared with traditional spatial domain methods. It demonstrates that the computational efficiency of the proposed spherical harmonic domain method has improved by four orders of magnitude and with a similar level of computational accuracy compared with the optimized 3D GLQ method. Finally, the proposed forward method is applied to topography correction of the Moon. The results show that the gravity response of the topography by our method is close to that of the optimized 3D GLQ method, and is also consistent with previous results.
Perfusion Computed Tomography for Assessing Pancreas Graft Volumetric Perfusion after Simultaneous Pancreas and Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Dmitriev Ilya V , Muslimov Rustam Sh , Anisimov Yuriy A , Shchelykalina Svetlana P , Grigorieva Elena V , Shchekoturov Igor O , Serova Natalya , Ternovoy Sergey K
Published: August 2024

There is paucity of data in the available medical literature regarding the parameters of volumetric perfusion of pancreas grafts.
Materials and methods
From February 5, 2016 to December 23, 2021, we performed perfusion computed tomography in 41 patients at different times after simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplantation. The study group consisted of 18 men (44%) and 23 women (56%) with a long history of type 1 diabetes complicated by terminal chronic renal failure. The results of perfusion computed tomography of the pancreas graft were studied, and the effects of post-transplantation timing and graft revascularization peculiarities on volumetric perfusion parameters were evaluated.
Results
The median arterial blood flow, arterial blood volume, and permeability of the pancreas graft were 115.1 [99.7;130.3] mL/100 mL/min, 46.7 [37.4;56.9] mL/min and 8.6 [4.1;11.4] mL/100 mL/min, respectively. No statistically significant differences in the averaged perfusion values were found in the head, body, and tail of the pancreas graft. The post-transplantation timing and the number of arteries involved in graft revascularization did not have a significant effect on the volumetric perfusion of the graft.
Conclusion
The volumetric perfusion results of the pancreas graft correspond to those obtained in the study of pancreatic perfusion in healthy participants.
Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed … about the Placenta
Authors: Nikolova Maria , Mandadzhieva Stoilka , Milova Nadezhda , Milov Antoan , Yordanov Angel
Published: August 2024

The connection between the mother and the child has been considered one of the strongest bonds in nature. Though there are numerous factors that can influence the establishment of pregnancy, in its essence three are considered major: a good quality embryo, a receptive endometrium and a successful cross-talk between them. The placenta, that derives from the trophoblast of the embryo, develops when a successful implantation occurs. It is an ephemeral organ through which the turnover of nutrient, gas and waste molecules is realized. It serves as barrier and can provide the embryo with immune factors. Placental disorders are observed in some rare but life-threatening obstetric conditions like: preeclampsia (PE), fetal growth restriction (FGR), gestational tropho-blastic diseases (GTD) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The etiology and pathogenesis of some are still partially enigmatic. Our attention in this review was driven by the participation of small RNA molecules: miRNAs and piRNAs, as potential epigenetic modulators of genes that play pivotal role in placental functioning. The molecular approach for understanding of placental disorders may help new diagnostic and therapeutic solutions to be found.
Impact of Internet Use on Health Status in China: Evidence Based on A national Longitudinal Survey Data
Authors: Xinxin Ma
Published: August 2024

Previous studies have examined the impact of Internet use on health in China, but they have not adequately addressed the issue of reverse causality or conducted a detailed analysis of health status. This study uses three waves of longitudinal data from the China Family Panel Studies conducted in 2014, 2016, and 2018 to investigate the association between Internet use and health status in China, aiming to address these gaps. The results indicate that Internet use may improve health status, including self-rated health, mental health, and outpatient visits. These effects vary by gender and age group: the positive effect of Internet use on health outcomes is more pronounced for women, and for middle-aged and older generations, compared to men and younger generations. These findings provide new evidence of the beneficial impact of Internet use on health outcomes in China, suggesting that policies promoting Internet utilization could enhance individuals’ health status, particularly among women and middle-aged and older populations.
Structural, Elastic, and Electronic Properties of Y(1-xSrxTiO3 (x=0.01, 0.10, 0.50, 0.99) by Means of Density Functional Theory
Authors: Güldal Serkan
Published: August 2024

The perovskite crystal structure has garnered significant attention due to its unique properties and potential applications. Particularly, YTiO3 is a ferromagnetic Mott insulator with strong electron correlation effects and orbital ordering, so it is a good candidate for electronic applications. In this research, we investigate the structural, elastic, and electronic properties of Y1-xSrxTiO3 (x=0.01, 0.10, 0.50, 0.99) perovskites within the Pm3m space group using density functional theory (DFT) to improve mechanical properties while preserving electronic properties. Initial geometry optimizations were performed using the GGA-PBE functional with a 6×6×6 Monkhorst-Pack k-point mesh. The study utilized the CASTEP code with ultrasoft pseudopotentials for DFT calculations. Complete structural relaxations were achieved, and the elastic constants which confirm the mechanical stability of the materials were determined using the finite strain theory. The electronic properties were analyzed through band structure and partial density of states (PDOS) calculations. Despite variations in band structures due to Sr doping, no bandgap was observed, indicating the metallic nature of the compounds. The study highlights that p and d orbitals are predominant in electronic states. The findings suggest that Sr doping significantly influences the elastic properties, making these materials potentially valuable for various applications requiring robust mechanical properties.
AFTEA Framework for Supporting Dynamic Autonomous Driving Situation
Authors: Kim Subi , Kang Jieun , Yoon Yongik
Published: August 2024

The accelerated development of AI technology has brought about revolutionary changes in various fields of society. Recently, it has been emphasized that Fairness, Accountability, Transparency, Ethics (Explainability) (FATE) should be considered to support the reliability and validity of AI-based decision-making. However, in the case of autonomous driving technology, which is directly related to human life and requires real-time adaptation and response to various changes and risks in the real world, environmental adaptability must be considered in a more comprehensive and converged manner. In order to derive definitive evidence for each object in a convergent autonomous driving environment, it is necessary to transparently collect and provide various types of road environment information for driving objects and driving assistance, and to construct driving technology that is adaptable to various situations by considering all uncertainties in the real-time changing driving environment.This allows unbiased and fair results based on flexible contextual understanding, even in situations that do not conform to rules and patterns, by considering the convergent interactions and dynamic situations of various objects that are possible in a real-time road environment. The transparent, environmentally adaptive, and fairness-based outcomes provide the basis for the decision-making process and support clear interpretation and explainability of decisions. All of these processes enable autonomous vehicles to draw reliable conclusions and take responsibility for their decisions in autonomous driving situations. Therefore, this paper proposes an Adaptability, Fairness, Transparency, Explainability and Accountability (AFTEA) Framework to build a stable and reliable autonomous driving environment in dynamic situations. This paper explains the definition, role, and necessity of AFTEA in artificial intelligence technology and highlights its value when applied and integrated into autonomous driving technology. The AFTEA framework with environmental adaptability will support the establishment of a sustainable autonomous driving environment in dynamic environments, and aims to provide a direction for establishing a stable and reliable AI system that adapts to various real-world scenarios.
Interaction Solutions for the Fractional KdVSKR Equations in (1+1)-Dimension and (2+1)-Dimension
Authors: Zhang Lihua , Zheng Zitong , Shen Bo , Wang Gangwei , Wang Zhenli
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we extend the KdVSKR equations in (1+1)-dimension and (2+1)-dimension to fractional KdVSKR equations with modified Riemann-Liouville derivative. The (2+1)-dimensional KdVSKR equation, which is a recent extension of (1+1)-dimensional KdVSKR equation, can model the resonances of solitons in shallow water. By means of the Hirota bilinear method, finite symmetry group method and consistent Riccati expansion method, many new interaction solutions have been derived. Soliton-cnoidal interaction solution of the (1+1)-dimensional fractional KdVSKR equation has been derived for the first time. For the (2+1)-dimensional frac-tional KdVSKR equation, two-wave interaction solutions and three-wave interaction solutions, including dark-soliton-sine interaction solution, bright-soliton-elliptic interaction solution, and lump-hyperbolic-sine interaction solution, have been derived. Impact of the fractional order on the shapes of these solutions has been illustrated by figures. Three-wave interaction solutions of fractional systems have not been reported in the existing references. The research idea in this paper can be applied to other fractional differential equations.
The Planck Computer is the Quantum Gravity Computer We Live Inside a Gigantic Computer, the Hubble Sphere God Computer?
Authors: Haug Espen
Published: August 2024

Recent developments in the quantization of general relativity theory provide a new perspective on matter and even the whole universe. Already in 1922, Eddington suggested that a future quantum gravity theory had to be linked to the Planck length. This is today the main view among many working with quantum gravity. Recently, it has been demonstrated how the Planck length, the Planck time can be extracted from gravity observations with no knowledge of G, ħ or even c. Rooted in this, both general relativity theory and multiple other gravity theories can be quantized and linked to the Planck scale. A revelation from this is that matter seems to be ticking at the reduced Compton frequency, where each tick can be seen as one bit, and one bit corresponds to a Planck mass event. This new way of looking at gravity also can tell us considerably about what quantum gravity computers are and what they potentially can do. We will claim that all quantum gravity and quantum gravity computers are directly linked to the Planck scale and the Compton frequency in matter, something we will discuss in this paper. Quantum gravity computers, we will see, in many ways are nature’s own designed computers with enormous capacity to 3D “print” real time. Basically, we live inside a gigantic quantum gravity computer known as the Hubble sphere, and we even are quantum gravity computers. The observable universe is basically a quantum gravity computer that calculates approximately 10^104 bits per second (bps).
Designing the Chemical Composition of Steel with Required Hardenability Using Computational Methods
Authors: Tomašić Neven , Sitek Wojciech , Gemechu Wendimu Fanta , Iljkić Dario
Published: August 2024

This paper introduces an innovative approach that enables automated and precise prediction of the steel's chemical composition based on the desired Jominy curve. The microstructure, and in fact the presence of martensite, is decisive for the hardness of the steel, so the study considered the occurrence of this phase at particular distances from the quenched-end of the Jominy sample. Steels for quenching and tempering and case hardening were investigated. With representative collected dataset of hardness values from quenched-end of Jominy specimen, microstructure and chemical composition of steels, the complex regression model was made using supervised artificial neural networks. The balance between cost and required hardenability can be achieved through optimizing the chemical composition of steel. This model of designing steel with required hardenability can be of great benefit in the mechanical engineering and manufacturing industry. The model is verified experimentally.
Beyond Transduction: Biological Effects of Cell Penetrating Peptides
Authors: Lopuszynski Jack , Wang Jingyu , Zahid Maliha
Published: August 2024

One of the bottlenecks to bringing new therapies to the clinic has been a lack of vectors for delivering novel therapeutics in a targeted manner. Cell penetrating peptides (CPPs) have received a lot of attention and have been the subject of numerous developments since their identification nearly 3 decades ago. Known for their transduction abilities, they have generally been considered inert vectors. In this review we present a schema for their classification, highlight what is known about their mechanism of transduction, and outline the existing literature, as well as our own experience, vis a vis the intrinsic anti-inflammatory properties that certain CPPs exhibit. Given the inflammatory responses associated with viral vectors, CPPs represent a viable alternative to these vectors; further, the anti-inflammatory properties of CPPs, mostly through inhibition of the NF-κB pathway, are encouraging. Much work in relevant animal models, toxicity studies in large animal models, and ultimately human trials are needed before their potential is fully realized.
Effectiveness of Smartphone App for the treatment of Pediatric Obesity: A Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Umano Giuseppina Rosaria , Masino Mariapia , Cirillo Grazia , Rondinelli Giulia , Massa Francesca , Mangoni di Santo Stefano Giuseppe Salvatore R.C. , Di Sessa Anna , Marzuillo Pierluigi , Giudice Emanuele Miraglia del , Buono Pietro
Published: August 2024

Background: Pediatric obesity treatment is based on high-intensity lifestyle counseling. However, high dropout rates and low effectiveness have been reported even in specialized centers. Mobile health technologies have been used in research settings to overcome these limits with contrasting results. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a six-month intervention with a mobile app for the treatment of pediatric obesity at 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Methods: Patients were randomly assigned to standard care or standard care plus mobile app (2:1). The mobile app delivered high-intensity lifestyle counseling for diet and physical activity. Results: Seventy-five subjects were prospectively enrolled. At six months of follow-up, the m-app group showed significantly lower dropout rates compared to standard care(p=0.01). The risk of dropout was significantly higher in controls compared to the intervention group (OR 3.86,95%C.I. 1.39-10.42,p=0.01). After one year of follow-up, we observed lower albeit non statistically significant dropout rates in the m-app compared to the standard care group(p=0.24). No differences were observed in terms of z-score BMI and percentage of BMI reduction between the two groups. Conclusion: our findings suggest that mobile app might help in the clinical management of children and adolescents with obesity in terms of dropout reduction.
Supervision of Biomedical Master’s Students in Norway
Authors: Oksenych Valentyn
Published: August 2024

Working as a researcher, associate professor, or full professor in the field of biomedicine in Norway involves supervising students preparing for various degrees, such as Bachelor's, Master's, PhD, and MD. Additionally, there are visiting students from other departments and institutions in Norway, as well as from abroad, including various types of exchange students. Departments and Faculties provide guidelines and regulations on what is expected from students and their communication with supervisors throughout the study course. However, these guidelines are often too general, allowing for significant flexibility and varied interpretations from both the students' and supervisors' perspectives. This article focuses on personal experiences supervising biomedical Master's students in Norway. It covers several aspects, including student recruitment, initial instructions, routine work, graduation, and post-graduation interaction. The focus is on the supervisor's point of view, while the students' perspectives on this topic are reserved for further research.
Structural Conformations of Calixarene-Based Receptors and Their Implications for Molecular Recognition
Authors: Saitz Claudio , Ochoa Andres , Hernández-Arancibia Belen , Herrera- Muñoz Jose , Gómez- Machuca Horacio
Published: August 2024

We have synthesized and examined a series of calix[4]arene-based chemosensors containing thiosemicarbazone or thiourea as a binding site and a pyridine-chromophore unit in various conformations. These conformations include pinched cone (I), cone (III and IV), and 1,3-alternate (II and V). Our objective was to assess the binding abilities of these sensors towards anions and cations using different spectroscopic techniques. All receptors demonstrate the ability to recognize cations, with notable distinctions between them. Receptor I demonstrates a broad spectrum of ion recognition, encompassing Ag+, Cu2+, Co2+, Ni2+, and Zn2+. Receptors IV and V also exhibit complex formation with Co2+, Ni2+, and Cu2+ ions. Sensors II and III demonstrate exceptional selectivity for recognizing the copper (II) ion. When studying anions, only receptor I yielded satisfactory results. This is due to the thiosemicarbazone bridge and its spatial orientation in the pinched cone conformation, which allows for an interaction to occur. It is worth noting that sensors IV and V, which are fluorescent molecules due to the triazolo pyridine unit in their structure, exhibit particularly noteworthy behavior. The highest association constant is observed for cobalt (II) complexes, with values of 6.59 and 2.38 (x1012 mol/L)-2 for receptors IV and V, respectively. Our findings indicate that there are no significant differences in selectivity and sensitivity between ca-lix[4]arene receptors in 1,3-alternate and cone conformations.
Geospatial and Temporal Patterns of Natural and Man-made (Technological) Disasters (1900-2024): Insights from Different Perspectives
Authors: Cvetković Vladimir M. , Renner Renate , Lukić Tin , Aleksova Bojana
Published: August 2024

This pioneering study explores the geospatial and temporal patterns of natural and human-induced disasters from 1900 to 2024, providing essential insights into their global distribution and impacts. Utilizing the comprehensive international EM-DAT database, our analysis reveals significant trends and disparities in disaster occurrences and their widespread consequences. Results showed a dramatic escalation in both natural and man-made (technological) disasters over the decades, with notable surges in the 1991-2000 and 2001-2010 periods. A total of 25,836 disasters were recorded worldwide, of which 69.41% were natural disasters (16,567) and 30.59% were man-made (technological) disasters (9,269). The most significant increase in natural disasters occurred from 1961-1970, while man-made (technological) disasters surged substantially from 1981-1990. Seasonal trends reveal that floods peak in January and July, while storms are most frequent in June and October. Droughts and floods are the most devastating in terms of human lives, while storms and earthquakes cause the highest economic losses. The most substantial economic losses were reported during the 2001-2010 period, driven by catastrophic natural disasters in Asia and North America. Our research highlights Asia as the most disaster-prone continent, accounting for 41.75% of global events, with natural disasters making up 61.89% of these events. Oceania, despite experiencing fewer total disasters, shows a remarkable 91.51% of these as natural disasters. Africa is notable for its high incidence of man-made (technological) disasters, which constitute 43.79% of the continent's disaster events. Europe, representing 11.96% of total disasters, exhibits a balanced distribution but tends towards natural disasters at 64.54%. Examining specific countries, China, India, and the United States emerged as the most frequently affected by both natural and man-made (technological) disasters. The impact of these disasters has been immense, with economic losses reaching their highest during the decade of 2010-2020, largely due to natural disasters. The human toll has been equally significant, with Asia recording the most fatalities and Africa the most injuries. Particularly, the decade from 2001 to 2010 experienced the greatest economic losses, primarily driven by natural disasters in Asia and North America. These insights highlight the urgent need for tailored disaster risk management strategies that address the distinct challenges and impacts in various regions. By understanding historical disaster patterns, policymakers and stakeholders can better anticipate and manage future risks, ultimately safeguarding lives and economies.
Phenotypic Variability of LGMD 2C/R5 in a Genetically Homogenous Group of Bulgarian Muslim Roma
Authors: Taneva Ani , Gresham David , Guergueltcheva Velina , Chamova Teodora , Bojinova Veneta , Gospodinova Mariana , Katzarova Maria , Petkov Radoslav , Voit Thomas , Aneva Lidia , Asenov Ognyan , Georgieva Bilyana , Mihaylova Violeta , Bichev Stoyan , Todorov Tihomir , Todorova Albena , Kalaydjieva Luba , Tournev Ivailo
Published: August 2024

Sarcoglycanopathies are among the most frequent and severe autosomal recessive forms of limb-girdle muscular dystrophies /LGMD/ with childhood onset. Mutations in , , and sarcoglycan genes lead to various kinds of LGMD. We present the clinical variability of LGMD 2C/R5 among a genetically homogeneous group of 56 patients, belonging to 35 pedigrees. Molecular genetic analysis showed thаt all 57 patients were homozygous for C283Y variant. The muscles of the pelvic girdle and the trunk were early and more severely affected, followed by the the shoulder girdle. Macroglossia, hypertrophy of the calves, scapular winging and lumbar hyperlordosis were common in the ambulatory phase. A great variability in the clinical presentation of LGMD 2C/R5 was observed both intra and interfamilial, despite the same underlying molecular defect. Females demonstrated a relatively milder clinical course, compared to males. Mean CK levels were 20 times above normal values. Muscle CT of MRI showed earlier and more severe involvement of the flexor proximal limb muscles in comparison to the extensor ones.
Dual-band Passive Beam-Steering Antenna Technologies for Low Power Satellite Communication and Modern Wireless Systems: A Review
Authors: Nabeel Maira I. , Singh Khushboo , Afzal Muhammad U. , Thalakotuna Dushmantha N. , Esselle Karu P.
Published: August 2024

Efficient beam steerable high-gain antennas enable high-speed data rates over long-distance networks, including wireless backhaul, satellite communications (SATCOM), and SATCOM On-the-Move. These characteristics are essential for advancing contemporary wireless communication networks, particularly within 5G and beyond. Various beam-steering solutions have been proposed in the literature, with passive beam-steering mechanisms employing planar metasurfaces emerging as cost-effective, power-efficient, and compact options. These attributes make them well-suited for use in confined spaces, large-scale production and widespread distribution to meet the demands of the mass market. Utilizing a dual-band antenna terminal setup is often advantageous for full duplex communication in wireless systems. Therefore, this article presents a comprehensive review of the dual-band beam steering techniques for enabling full-duplex communication in modern wireless systems, highlighting their design methodologies, scanning mechanisms, physical characteristics, and constraints. Despite the advantages of planar metasurface-based beam steering solutions, literature on dual-band beam steering antennas supporting full duplex communication is limited. This review article identifies research gaps and outlines future directions for developing economically feasible passive dual-band beam-steering solutions for mass deployment.
Juvenile Osteochondritis Dissecans: A Case Report
Authors: Nudelman Hermann , Lőrincz Aba , Kassai Tamás , Józsa Gergő
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: This report aims to illustrate the development, progression, diagnosis and treatment of chronically present articular surface lesions; (2) Methods: In this report, two patients are described from the point of initial presentation of symptoms to surgical consultation based on radiologic findings. These patients underwent corrective surgery in the form of mosaicplasty to repair the lesion present at the articular surface and the underlying subchondral bone. (3) Discussion: Diagnosing juvenile OCD remains challenging due to variable clinical presentation and minute radiologic discoveries. X-rays are useful, however, the gold standard remains to be arthroscopy which can be both diagnostic and therapeutic. Future prospects include the use of novel sonographic methods and the use of artificial intelligence within the given modalities. (4) Conclusions: The detailed imaging provided by MRI, combined with the insights from X-rays and potentially other modalities, allows for a nuanced understanding of the disease. This comprehensive approach ensures that treatment decisions are well-informed, optimizing outcomes for young patients with this condition.
Offsetting Dense Particle Sedimentation in Microfluidic Systems
Authors: Anyaduba Tochukwu Dubem
Published: August 2024

Sedimentation is an undesirable phenomenon that complicates the design of microsystems that exploit dense microparticles as delivery tools, especially in biotechnological applications. It often informs the integration of continuous mixing modules, consequently impacting system footprint, cost, and complexity. The impact of sedimentation is significantly worse in systems designed with the intent of particle metering or binary encapsulation in droplets. Circumventing this problem involves the unsatisfactory adoption of gel microparticles as an alternative. This paper presents two solutions – a hydrodynamic solution that changes the particle sedimentation trajectory relative to a flow-rate dependent resultant force; and induced hindered settling (i-HS), which exploits Richardson-Zaki (RZ) corrections of Stokes’ law. The hydrodynamic solution was validated using a multi-well fluidic multiplexing and particle metering manifold. Computational image analysis of multiplex metering efficiency using this method showed an average reduction in well-to-well variation in particle concentration from 45% (Q = 1 mL/min, n = 32 total wells) to 17% (Q = 10 mL/ min, n = 48 total wells). By exploiting a physical property (cloud point) of surfactants in the bead suspension in vials, the i-HS achieved 58% reduction in the sedimentation rate. This effect results from surfactant phase change, which increases the turbidity (transient increase in particle concentration), thereby exploitingthe RZ theories. Both methods can be used independently or synergistically to eliminate bead settling in microsystems or minimize particle sedimentation.
Fintech adoption in Emerging Economy Using structural Equation Model (SEM) Analysis: Extended UTUAT Approach
Authors: Teshome Getenet , Sharma Dhiraj
Published: August 2024

Fintech's emergence is one of the most significant developments in finance, and its application has been of much interest and popularity in recent decades. This study aims to explore the adoption of fintech in emerging economies by employing a structural equation model. The study's sample population consists of bank clients of Ethiopian commercial banks who have used financial technology platforms for at least one year. The total number of sample sizes is 440. The data collection instrument used for this study is a questionnaire (seven-point likert scales ranging from strongly disagree to strongly agree). Structural equation model (SEM) analysis was implemented using Amos software to examine the relationship between variables. The findings of the study support the hypotheses that various factors, including performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating condition, traliaility, and user innovativeness, significantly influence the adoption and usage of fintech services. The study recommends that FinTech companies implement pilot programs to allow potential users to trial FinTech services on a limited basis before full commitment. Fintech industries should engage with local communities through events, seminars, and workshops to introduce fintech services. Having community leaders and respected individuals advocate for the technology can enhance acceptance.
Anti-Inflammatory Role of the Klotho Protein and Relevance to Aging
Authors: Prud'homme Gérald J. , Wang Qinghua
Published: August 2024

The α-Klotho protein (hereafter Klotho) is an obligate coreceptor for fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23). It is produced in the kidneys, brain and other sites. Klotho insufficiency causes hyperphosphatemia and other anomalies. Importantly, it is associated with chronic pathologies (often age-related) that have an inflammatory component. This includes atherosclerosis, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. Its mode of action in these diseases is not well understood, but it inhibits or regulates multiple major pathways. Klotho has a membrane form, and a soluble form (s-Klotho). Cytosolic Klotho is postulated but not well characterized. s-Klotho has endocrine properties that are incompletely elucidated. It binds to the FGF receptor 1c (FGFR1c) that is widely expressed (including endothelial cells). It also attaches to soluble FGF23, and FGF23/Klotho binds to FGFRs. Thus, s-Klotho might be a roaming FGF23 coreceptor, but it has other functions. Notably, Klotho (cell-bound or soluble) counteracts inflammation, and appears to mitigate related aging (inflammaging). It inhibits NF-κB and the NLRP3 inflammasome. This inflammasome requires priming by NF-κB, and produces active IL-1β, membrane pores and cell death (pyroptosis). In accord, Klotho countered inflammation and cell injury induced by toxins, damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), cytokines, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). s-Klotho also blocks the TGF-β receptor and Wnt ligands, which lessens fibrotic disease. Low Klotho is associated with loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia), as occurs in aging and chronic diseases. s-Klotho counters the inhibitory effects of myostatin and TGF-β on muscle, reduces inflammation, and improves muscle repair following injury. Inhibition of TGF-β and other factors may also be protective in diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This review examines Klotho functions especially as related to inflammation, and potential applications.
Successful Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Treatment in a Newly Diagnosed HIV Positive and Acquired Immune Defi-Ciency Syndrome (Aids) Patient with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (Ards) Complicated by Pneumocystis and Cytomeg-Alovirus Pneumo
Authors: Kang Jin Kook , Acton Matthew , Kim Bo Soo
Published: August 2024

We report a case of an adult patient with newly diagnosed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) secondary to pneumocystis and cytomegalovirus pneumonia present on presentation that was successfully managed with veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO). A 40-year-old female with a past medical history of asthma was admitted to a local hospital due to dyspnea, cough, and wheezing where she was diagnosed with HIV infection, ARDS, and combined pneumocystis and cytomegalovirus pneumonia. Her pulmonary function quickly declined neces-sitating mechanical ventilation (MV). After she failed all conventional therapies, she was trans-ferred to a tertiary medical center for VV-ECMO therapy. Patient was successfully treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART), antibiotics, antivirals, steroids, and 48 days of VV-ECMO support, with complete resolution of her respiratory symptoms. She was discharged on hospital day 82. HIV positive patients with ARDS complicated by opportunistic pulmonary infections can be successfully managed with ART, appropriate anti-infective therapies, and VV-ECMO.