bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing the Antibacterial Effect of Coated and Impregnated Flexible Dentures with Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles against Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Meran Zhala Dara , Hassan Pakhshan A. , Salaie Ranj Nadhim
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: This study compares the antibacterial effect of coated and impregnated flexible dentures with magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgONPs) against Streptococcus mutans. (2) Methods: the study used flexible denture material discs. The experimental groups were uncoated dics (control), 5% MgONPs coated discs (coated), and 5% MgONPs impregnated discs (impregnated). The homogenous distribution of MgONPs within the matrix was determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and surface roughness and modulus elasticity were also measured. The antibacterial efficacy was tested against Streptococcus mutans in suspension and biofilm. The adhesion of microorganisms was assessed using an adherence assay test, optical light microscopy, and turbidity test. (3) Results: The nanoparticles were successfully coated or impregnated on the substrate and caused a significant increase in roughness. The effect of 5% MgONPs was significant (p < 0.05). The flexible denture samples whether coated or impregnated with 5% MgONPs effectively inhibited the growth of microorganisms. The Streptococcus mutans growth was 2.5 folds higher in control compared to coated samples, while Streptococcus mutans growth was 1.5 folds higher in control compared to impregnated samples. Furthermore, this study confirmed there was a homogenous distribution of MgONPs for both coated and impregnated groups. (4) Conclusions: It was found that addition of 5% MgONPs can prevent the attachment of Streptococcusn mutans to flexible removable denture material. Additionally, the antibacterial effect was higher in the coated-samples compared to impregnated-samples.
Cavitation Erosion Resistance of TiSiN/NiTiAlCoCrN Nanomultilayer Films with Different Modulation Periods
Authors: Yan Hongjuan , Si Lina , Dou Zhaoliang , Yang Ye , Li Hong , Liu Fengbin
Published: August 2023

In order to explore the effect of modulation period on the structure and properties of TiSiN/NiTiAlCoCrN nanomultilayer films, the films were deposited on 304 stainless steel via a magnetron sputtering system. The structure and element distribution of the films were observed via X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The cavitation erosion of the films was investigated using an ultrasonic vibration cavitation machine. The results show that the TiSiN/NiTiAlCoCrN nanomultilayer film exhibits a face-centered cubic (FCC) structure and preferred orientation on the (200) crystal plane. TiSiN/NiTiAlCoCrN nanomultilayer films grow in the form of columnar crystals, which grow perpendicularly to the direction of the substrate. With increasing modulation periods, the hardness, elastic modulus, and adhesive force firstly increase and then decrease. When the modulation period is 11 nm, the TiSiN/NiTiAlCoCrN nanomultilayer film has the biggest hardness of (14.649 ± 0.591) GPa, elastic modulus of (249.065 ± 10.485) GPa, and adhesive force of 11.3 N. With increasing modulation periods, the mass loss firstly decreases and then increases. When the modulation period is 11 nm, the mass loss is the minimum of 0.6 mg. There are two reasons for improving the cavitation erosion resistance of the films. The TiSiN/NiTiAlCoCrN nanomultilayer film has the highest hardness, and the interfaces of the nanomultilayer film can hinder the generation and expansion of cavitation pits.
Hydrothermal Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Vesuvianite Compounds, Ca19Al13Si18O71(OH)7 and Sr19Fe12Ge19O72(OH)6
Authors: Smart Megan M. , Moore Cheryl A. , McMillen Colin D. , Kolis Joseph W.
Published: August 2023

New compositions of synthetic vesuvianite were investigated using hydrothermal synthesis. High quality single crystals with the formula Ca19Al13Si18O71(OH)7 (I) having the vesuvianite-type structure were crystallized during a high temperature hydrothermal growth reaction. Starting materials of Al2O3 and CaSiO3 reacted at 670 °C and 2 kbar in 0.5 M aqueous alkali hydroxide mineralizer to form single crystals up to 0.25 mm per edge. Similar reactions employing SrO, Fe2O3, and GeO2 reacting at 580 °C and 2 kbar in 6 M aqueous alkali hydroxide mineralizers led to the formation of the analogous Sr19Fe12Ge19O72(OH)6 (II). These crystals were obtained in sizes up to 0.5 mm per edge. The structures of both compounds were refined in space group P4/nnc after careful evaluation of the diffraction data and subsequent test refinements. Elemental analysis indicated only the presence of Ca2+, Al3+, and Si4+ cations in I and only the presence of Sr2+, Fe3+, and Ge4+ cations in II, representing synthetic vesuvianite comprising the minimum number of unique cations. The use of larger cations than are typically found in natural vesuvianite, such as Sr2+, Fe3+, and Ge4+, resulted in an expanded crystalline lattice and extended the vesuvianite analogs to include an increasing variety of elements.
Psychometric Validity of the Areas of Work Life Scale (AWS) in Teachers and Healthcare Workers in México
Authors: Juárez-García Arturo , Merino-Soto César , García-Rivas Javier
Published: August 2023

The areas of work life scale (AWS) has shown to be a suitable marker of perceived fit between employees’ abilities and the psychosocial demands of the job, but validation studies are practically nonexistent in the Latino population. The purpose of this study was twofold: firstly, to examine the factor structure, reliability, and invariance between sex and occupation of the AWS scale, and secondly, to test the AWS–burnout relationship within the framework of the structural mediational model proposed by Leiter and Maslach (2005). N = 305 health workers and N = 324 teachers from different work settings answered the AWS and MBI-GS scales. In this study, 64.4% of the participants were females (N = 405), and the mean age was 34.7 (sd = 11.7, rank = 56). Robust methods for statistical analyses were used. The results showed that the original version had marginal fit indices due to a method effect (negative phrasing items), and when seven negative items were removed, a final best model was found (CFI = 0.997; RMSEA = 0.060; SRMRu = 0.047). Non-invariance between occupation and sex was found, and the internal consistency was from marginal to satisfactory (ω = 0.658 to 0.840). The mediational structural model tested confirmed the expected associations between AWS and burnout. In conclusion, the Mexican translation of the AWS in its 22-reduced version showed reliability and validity in Mexican work contexts, specifically in healthcare workers and teachers.
A Miniaturized Thin-Film UWB Monopole Antenna Implemented with High-Dk Adhesive
Authors: Dao Duc Nguyen , Chung Jae-Young
Published: August 2023

This paper presents the design of a miniaturized polyimide-based antenna for ultra-wideband (UWB) communication. Miniaturization is achieved through the utilization of adhesive material with a high dielectric constant (high-Dk). The goal of this work is to investigate the impact of such material on the antenna performance and to optimize its design for UWB operation. The manufacturing of the antenna using the proposed structure is developed, and the prototype of an antenna for the UWB high band (6–9 GHz) is measured and analyzed. By leveraging the high Dk of the adhesive material, the simulation and measurement results show that the proposed antenna with a high-Dk adhesive film can achieve compact dimensions with good performance in terms of the gain and time domain characteristics. The results of this study show the potential of exhibiting a reduction in the size of the antenna and will contribute to the advancement of miniaturized UWB antenna technology.
Exploring Zero-Shot Semantic Segmentation with No Supervision Leakage
Authors: Wang Yiqi , Tian Yingjie
Published: August 2023

Zero-shot semantic segmentation (ZS3), the process of classifying unseen classes without explicit training samples, poses a significant challenge. Despite notable progress made by pre-trained vision-language models, they have a problem of “supervision leakage” in the unseen classes due to their large-scale pre-trained data. For example, CLIP is trained on 400M image–text pairs that contain large label space categories. So, it is not convincing for real “zero-shot” learning in machine learning. This paper introduces SwinZS3, an innovative framework that explores the “no-supervision-leakage” zero-shot semantic segmentation with an image encoder that is not pre-trained on the seen classes. SwinZS3 integrates the strengths of both visual and semantic embeddings within a unified joint embedding space. This approach unifies a transformer-based image encoder with a language encoder. A distinguishing feature of SwinZS3 is the implementation of four specialized loss functions in the training progress: cross-entropy loss, semantic-consistency loss, regression loss, and pixel-text score loss. These functions guide the optimization process based on dense semantic prototypes derived from the language encoder, making the encoder adept at recognizing unseen classes during inference without retraining. We evaluated SwinZS3 with standard ZS3 benchmarks, including PASCAL VOC and PASCAL Context. The outcomes affirm the effectiveness of our method, marking a new milestone in “no-supervison-leakage” ZS3 task performance.
Image Encryption Algorithm Combining Chaotic Image Encryption and Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Feng Luoyin , Du Jize , Fu Chong , Song Wei
Published: August 2023

With the rapid development of information technology, the security of images has emerged as a significant area of research. This study presents an algorithm that integrates chaotic image encryption and a convolutional neural network (CNN) to enhance security and efficiency. The algorithm applies the properties of randomness and nonlinear mapping of chaotic sequences with the advanced feature extraction capabilities of a CNN model to achieve robust image encryption. First, we outline the fundamentals of chaotic image encryption and CNN. Chaotic image encryption employs chaotic sequence generation and nonlinear mapping to scramble pixel values for encryption purposes, while a CNN, as a deep-learning model with a local perceptual field and weight sharing, effectively extracts high-level image features. Subsequently, we provide a detailed description of the specific steps involved in combining chaotic image encryption and the CNN. These steps include chaotic sequence generation, pixel value mapping, feature extraction, and key management. The algorithm achieves high-strength encryption by performing dissimilarity operations between the chaotic sequence and image pixel values, as well as extracting high-level image features using the CNN. Finally, we conduct experimental evaluations of the algorithm and compare it with traditional chaotic image encryption methods. The experimental results demonstrate that the image encryption algorithm exhibits significant improvements in encryption quality and security while offering advantages in computational performance and encryption/decryption speed.
Cold Plasma Technology for Tomato Processing By-Product Valorization: The Case of Tomato Peeling and Peel Drying
Authors: Sosnin Maxim , Berestenko Egor , Mounassar Emad H. A. , Shorstkii Ivan
Published: August 2023

The tomato processing industry is focused on product yield maximization, keeping energy costs and waste effluents to a minimum while maintaining high product quality. In our study, cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) pretreatment enhanced tomato processing to facilitate peelability, a specific peeling process, and enhance peel drying. Peeling force analysis determined that CAP pretreatment of whole tomatoes improved peelability under the conditions used. The specific peeling force after CAP treatment decreased by more than three times. It was observed that cold atmospheric plasma pretreatment reduced the duration of infrared drying of tomato peels by 18.2%. Along with that, a positive effect on the reduction of the specific energy consumption of peel drying was shown for CAP-pretreated tomato peels. The obtained data show that the technology of cold atmospheric plasma pretreatment, in particular, when processing whole tomatoes and tomato peels, has a promising application in industry, as it can significantly reduce the specific energy consumption for peeling and drying procedures.
Effects of Transverse Friction Massage on the Electromechanical Delay Components and Fractal Dimension of Surface Electromyography in Quadriceps Muscles
Authors: Ozturk Necla , Begovic Haris , Demir Pinar , Can Filiz , Yagcioglu Suha
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of transverse friction massage (TFM) on the electromechanical delay components and complexity of the surface electromechanical activity in the rectus femoris (RF) and vastus medialis (VM) muscles and to identify possible mechanisms behind TFM-induced alterations in the dynamics of RF and VM activity. Seven female and five male healthy subjects participated in this study. The subjects generated five maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs) consecutively before and after TFM. Meanwhile, electromyography (EMG), mechanomyography (MMG), and force were recorded. The onset times of the recorded signals were detected offline by setting the threshold to three times the SD of the baseline. The delays between EMG and MMG (Δt(EMG–MMG)), MMG and force (Δt(MMG–Force)), and EMG and force (Δt(EMG–Force)) were computed from the detected onsets. The fractal dimension (FD) of the EMG time series was computed using the correlation dimension method. TFM increased Δt(MMG–Force) and Δt(EMG–Force) significantly in the RF but decreased Δt(EMG–MMG) and increased Δt(MMG–Force) in the VM. TFM decreased the FD in the RF and increased it in the VM. The results imply that TFM decreased the stiffness of both the RF and VM and decreased the duration of the electrochemical processes in the VM. It is proposed that the decrease in EMG complexity in the RF may be associated with the decreased stiffness of the RF, and the increase in EMG complexity in the VM may be associated with the decreased electrochemical processes in this muscle. It is also suggested that the opposite changes in EMG complexity in the RF and VM can be used as a discriminating parameter to search for the effects of an intervention in the quadriceps muscles. The present study also demonstrates how to discriminate the nonlinear dynamics of a complex muscle system from a noisy time series.
Program Report: Improving Patient Experience at an Outpatient Clinic Using Continuous Improvement Tools
Authors: Siddiqui Muhammad Usman Hassan , Khafagy Abdullah Ahmed , Majeed Faisal
Published: August 2023

Patient satisfaction with prompt and high-quality healthcare services plays a pivotal role in healthcare settings. The delivery of high-quality services within the healthcare sector is closely associated with continuous quality improvement (CQI), which is an incremental and progressive process that prioritizes the safety of all participants, favorable outcomes, systematic processes, and a regulated and improved working environment, particularly in later stages. Surprisingly, these aspects are less frequently explored in Middle Eastern countries. Thus, this research paper aims to assess the impact of quality services on patient satisfaction in tertiary care clinics located in the Middle East. To improve the quality of services in our clinic, we employed patient feedback as a valuable resource. We proactively reached out to all patients who had visited our hospital via mobile phone messages and requested their feedback on the services they received. Approximately 5% of all visitors responded and completed a comprehensive questionnaire. The majority of respondents expressed satisfaction with the services provided across various departments. However, they also offered valuable suggestions that helped us identify further areas for improvement and enhance the overall patient experience within our clinic. Drawing upon the feedback received, we meticulously considered the identified issues, redesigned our policies, and implemented strategic changes. Following the implementation of these new approaches, we once again sought patients’ feedback on the quality of our services. Patient feedback highlighted the significant impact of optimized service delivery methods, resulting in a substantial increase in patient satisfaction. Overall, this study sheds light on the vital factors that can enhance patients’ experience in outpatient clinics, emphasizing the importance of integrating patient feedback into continuous quality improvement initiatives. By utilizing this approach, healthcare providers, administrators, and researchers can effectively improve service quality and patient satisfaction. Consequently, this research paper serves as a valuable reference for public health stakeholders, administrators, and researchers in their pursuit of delivering exceptional healthcare experiences.
The Role of Allogeneic Transplantation in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia in 2023: A Case-Based Concise Review
Authors: Tiribelli Mario , Petruzzellis Giuseppe , Battaglia Giulia , Pucillo Martina , Battista Marta Lisa , Cerno Michela , Geromin Antonella , Facchin Gabriele , Pizzano Umberto , Damiani Daniela , Fanin Renato , Patriarca Francesca
Published: August 2023

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have revolutionized the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), granting patients a life expectancy close to that of the normal population and, in a subset of patients, the possibility to discontinue therapy. Nonetheless, for a not negligible minority of patients, TKIs are not able to control CML. Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) has long been a pivotal therapy for CML. At present, allogeneic HCT is considered an option in CML patients diagnosed or progressing to blast phase (BP), for those in chronic phase (CP) resistant to multiple lines of TKI therapy or for those experiencing severe toxicity, mostly hematologic, under TKIs. Moving from real-world cases, we reviewed the results of allogeneic HCT in the setting of advanced-phase CML or failure of TKIs, with a focus on the progresses in transplant technology that has extended transplant options in elderly CML patients and in those lacking a sibling donor, and on the post-HCT strategies for prevention and treatment of disease relapse.
Digital Job Demands and Resources: Digitization in the Context of the Job Demands-Resources Model
Authors: Scholze Alexander , Hecker Achim
Published: August 2023

This study comprehensively investigates the effects of digitization in the workplace, with a specific focus on white-collar employees, using the job demands-resources (JD-R) model as a theoretical framework. By examining the intricate interplay between digital job demands and digital job resources, the research offers valuable insights to help organizations navigate the complexities caused by technological advancements. Utilizing a qualitative triangulation approach, the research combines a systematic literature review with a thematic analysis of 15 interdisciplinary expert interviews. Thereby, the study establishes a robust theoretical foundation for exploring stress, motivation, and the organizational consequences arising from integrating technology in the workplace. The JD-R model is extended to incorporate digital job demands and resources, enabling a thorough examination of both the positive and negative aspects of digitization within organizations. Moreover, the study highlights the necessity for the consistent adaptation of the JD-R model across diverse job contexts in the ever-evolving digital landscape. It advocates for organizations to effectively leverage digital resources and proactively manage job demands, aiming to transform digitization into a valuable job asset while preventing the onset of overwhelming burdens. In conclusion, the research encourages organizations to embrace the vast potential of digitization while prioritizing digital health in the workplace.
Functional Outcomes at 6 and 12 Months Post-Injury in a Trauma Centre Population with Moderate-to-Severe Traumatic Injuries
Authors: Moksnes Håkon Øgreid , Schäfer Christoph , Rasmussen Mari Storli , Soberg Helene Lundgaard , Røise Olav , Anke Audny , Røe Cecilie , Næss Pål Aksel , Gaarder Christine , Helseth Eirik , Dahl Hilde Margrete , Hestnes Morten , Brunborg Cathrine , Andelic Nada , Hellstrøm Torgeir
Published: August 2023

This study aims to evaluate the global functional outcomes after moderate-to-severe traumatic injury at 6 and 12 months and to examine the sociodemographic and injury-related factors that predict these outcomes. A prospective cohort study was conducted in which trauma patients of all ages with a New Injury Severity Score > 9 who were discharged alive from two regional trauma centres in Norway over a one-year period (2020) were included. The Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSE) score was used to analyse the functional outcomes. Regression analyses were performed to investigate the predictors of the GOSE score. Follow-up assessments were obtained from approximately 85% of the 601 included patients at both time points. The mean (SD) GOSE score was 6.1 (1.6) at 6 months and 6.4 (1.6) at 12 months, which corresponds to an upper-moderate disability. One-half of the patients had a persistent disability at 12 months post-injury. The statistically significant predictors of a low GOSE score at both time points were more pre-injury comorbidity, a higher number of injuries, and higher estimated rehabilitation needs, whereas a thorax injury with an Abbreviated Injury Scale ≥ 3 predicted higher GOSE scores. A high Glasgow Coma Scale score at admission predicted a higher GOSE score at 6 months. This study strengthens the evidence base for the functional outcomes and predictors in this population.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Factors Influencing Pre-Operative Anxiety in Orthognathic Patients
Authors: Kok Xiu Ling Florence , Gwilliam Jamie , Sayers Mark , Jones Elinor M. , Cunningham Susan J.
Published: August 2023

Orthognathic treatment is an important treatment modality to manage severe dentofacial discrepancies. Patients awaiting orthognathic surgery often experience increased anxiety, which may adversely affect post-operative recovery and treatment satisfaction. This study investigated the effects of a number of factors on pre-operative anxiety in orthognathic patients. Seventy patients prospectively recruited from three orthognathic centres in the UK completed a pre-operative questionnaire that included validated scales for measuring anxiety, social support, resilience, and coping styles. Sociodemographic data and satisfaction with the information provided by the clinical team were also elicited from the questionnaire. Univariable analysis showed that social support from a significant other (p = 0.026), resilience (p < 0.001), and satisfaction with the information provided by the clinical team (p = 0.002) were significantly associated with reduced anxiety, whilst avoidance coping (p < 0.001) and coping through seeking social support (p = 0.006) were significantly related to increased anxiety. With the exception of coping by seeking social support, these relationships retained significance in a multivariable regression analysis. Neither gender nor ethnicity moderated the effects of social support on pre-operative anxiety. These findings suggest potential avenues for clinicians to address with future interventions to reduce pre-operative anxiety. Further qualitative research may provide greater clarity on the relationship between these variables and anxiety.
Implementing Sensitivity and Contingency in Medical Contexts: The Case of Prematurity
Authors: Cimino Silvia
Published: August 2023

In the context of relational situations, sensitivity and contingency are identified as pivotal variables that contribute to the enhancement of patients’ overall wellbeing [...]
The Limited Coverage of Facial Feminization Surgery in the United States: A Literature Review of Policy Constraints and Implications
Authors: Aristizábal Alejandra , Escandón Joseph M. , Ciudad Pedro , Manrique Oscar J.
Published: August 2023

There is a literature gap regarding facial feminization surgery (FFS) access and coverage. Our goal is to compile information from previous studies and assess the current policy landscape for these surgeries in the US. We also explored why some policies do not cover them, identify states with better coverage, and determine the most covered procedures. PubMed, Medline, Embase, and Scopus were searched for studies that reviewed policies on FFS coverage. Studies on surgical techniques or other gender-affirming surgeries (GASs) that did not involve FFS were excluded. Seven studies were included for analysis. In 2014, the Department of Human Health Services (HHS) lifted the transgender exclusion policy, leading to an increase in policies regarding GASs for both private and state insurance. However, there are differences in medical necessity requirements among policies, which may not align with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) criteria. States that prohibit exclusion tend to offer better coverage for FFS. These states are mainly located in the western and northeast regions, whereas states in the southern and middle east regions have less coverage. Among the procedures, chondrolaryngoplasty is the most covered, while facial and cervical rhytidectomy are the least covered. To enhance transgender care, it is crucial to reach a consensus on how to offer coverage for facial feminization surgery. However, there is a lack of adequate research on this topic, and there is a need for resources and tools to assess the results of FFS procedures. One significant constraint of this study is that it does not provide a systematic review of the literature.
Effects of 10-Hydroxy-2-decenoic Acid and 10-Hydroxydecanoic Acid in Royal Jelly on Bone Metabolism in Ovariectomized Rats: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hanai Rina , Matsushita Hiroshi , Minami Akira , Abe Yuki , Tachibana Rika , Watanabe Kazushi , Takeuchi Hideyuki , Wakatsuki Akihiko
Published: August 2023

Although previous studies have demonstrated that royal jelly (RJ) may have estrogenic properties and prevent postmenopausal bone loss, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. This animal study aimed to investigate the effects of specific fatty acids of RJ, 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10H2DA) and 10-hydroxydecanoic acid (10HDAA), in ovariectomized rats. Ten-week-old female Wistar rats were divided into the Baseline, Sham, Ovx, Ovx + 10H2DA, and Ovx + 10HDAA groups. Rats in the Baseline group were sacrificed immediately, whereas those in the other groups were subjected to either a sham operation or bilateral ovariectomy. The animals in the Ovx + 10H2DA and Ovx + 10HDAA groups were fed diets containing 10H2DA and 10HDAA, respectively. Twelve weeks after surgery, the rats were sacrificed, and indices of bone mass and bone mechanics were analyzed. Femoral bone mineral density was significantly lower in the Ovx group than in the Sham group (p < 0.01). Administration of 10H2DA or 10HDAA did not ameliorate bone loss after ovariectomy. In addition, administration of these fatty acids diminished femur bone stiffness in ovariectomized rats (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). These findings suggest that the favorable effects of RJ may not be exerted solely by 10H2DA or 10HDAA. However, these effects may be exhibited in combination with other RJ constituents.
Positive Association between Macular Pigment Optical Density and Glomerular Filtration Rate: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tsujinaka Hiroki , Saeki Keigo , Obayashi Kenji , Nishi Tomo , Ueda Tetsuo , Ogata Nahoko
Published: August 2023

Although decreased macular pigment density is associated with the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), exactly how this decrease may contribute to the development of AMD is still not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the relationship between macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). MPOD was measured using MPS II (Electron Technology, Cambridge, UK) in 137 participants who showed no clinical signs of AMD at 3 months after cataract surgery, and simple and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to determine the associations with age, sex, abdominal circumference, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, intraocular lens color, visual acuity before and after surgery, and eGFR. The participants were divided into two groups based on the median MPOD (0.58): the high-pigment and low-pigment groups. The mean value of eGFR in the high-pigment group was significantly higher than that in the low-pigment group (64.2 vs. 58.1, p = 0.02). The simple linear regression analysis revealed a significant positive association between MPOD and eGFR (β = 0.0034, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.0011–0.0056, p = 0.0038), and this association was independent of age, sex, abdominal circumference, diabetes, smoking, hypertension, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) before surgery, BCVA after surgery, and intraocular lens color (β = 0.0033, 95% CI: 0.00090–0.0058, p = 0.0076). These results show a strong association of renal dysfunction with the decrease in MPOD.
Hemoglobin–Albumin–Lymphocyte–Platelet (HALP) Score as a Predictive Model for the Success of Reconstruction of Head and Neck Defects with Free Microvascular Flaps
Authors: Tarle Marko , Čvrljević Igor , Raguž Marina , Lukšić Ivica
Published: August 2023

Significant advances in reconstructive head and neck surgery with free microvascular flaps have had a positive impact on esthetic outcomes and quality of life. However, complications still occur in some patients. This study investigated the influence of the Hemoglobin, Albumin, Lymphocyte, and Platelet Score (HALP score), an immunonutritive marker, on complications and flap success. The retrospective analysis included 194 patients who underwent reconstruction of head and neck defects with free microvascular flaps. The HALP score correlated strongly with overall complications, including flap necrosis, infection, fistula, and hematoma. Hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocytes, and platelets individually showed associations with specific complications. HALP score was an extremely strong predictor of complications (AUC = 0.85). HALP score may be valuable for assessing patient status and predicting complications in microvascular free-flap reconstruction to allow timely interventions and improve outcomes. Further research is needed to investigate additional predictors and improve postoperative care.
Evaluation of Intraoperative Volumetric Assessment of Breast Volume Using 3D Handheld Stereo Photogrammetric Device
Authors: Loucas Rafael , Loucas Marios , Leitsch Sebastian , Danuser Katarina , Reichard Gabriela , Haroon Omar , Mayer Julius Michael , Koban Konstantin , Holzbach Thomas
Published: August 2023

Methods for assessing three-dimensional (3D) breast volume are becoming increasingly popular in breast surgery. However, the precision of intraoperative volumetric assessment is still unclear. Until now, only non-validated scanning systems have been used for intraoperative volumetric analyses. This study aimed to assess the feasibility, handling, and accuracy of a commercially available, validated, and portable device for intraoperative 3D volumetric evaluation. All patients who underwent breast surgery from 2020 to 2022 were identified from our institutional database. Intraoperative 3D volumetric assessments of 103 patients were included in this study. Standardized 3D volumetric measurements were obtained 3 months postoperatively to compare the intraoperatively generated volumetric assessment. All of the study participants were women with a mean age of 48.3 ± 14.7 years (range: 20–89). The mean time for intraoperative volumetric assessment was 8.7 ± 2.6 min. The postoperative 3D volumetric assessment, with a mean volume of 507.11 ± 206.29 cc, showed no significant difference from the intraoperative volumetric measurements of 504.24 ± 276.61 cc (p = 0.68). The mean absolute volume difference between the intraoperative simulations and postoperative results was 27.1 cc. Intraoperative 3D volumetric assessment using the VECTRA H2 imaging system seems to be a feasible, reliable, and accurate method for measuring breast volume. Based on this finding, we plan to investigate whether volumetric objective evaluations will help to improve breast symmetry in the future.
Re-Evaluating the Value of Ecosystem Based on Carbon Benefit: A Case Study in Chengdu, China
Authors: Dong Mengting , Liu Zeyuan , Ni Xiufeng , Qi Zhulin , Wang Jinnan , Zhang Qingyu
Published: August 2023

Despite the acknowledged importance of terrestrial ecosystems in achieving carbon neutrality, current carbon accounting predominantly focuses on CO2 uptake, neglecting indirect contributions from ecosystem services, such as temperature regulation and air purification. We established a carbon benefit (C benefit) accounting framework that integrated these services and analyzed the drivers influencing the spatial and temporal changes in the C benefit. It was found that the average annual growth rate of C benefits in Chengdu over the past 20 years was 0.91 Tg/a, and the CO2 emissions reduction due to ecosystem services was 22.47 times that of carbon sinks. Therefore, the contribution of ecosystem regulating services to carbon neutrality cannot be ignored. In addition, the elevation, gross domestic product (GDP), and normalized differential vegetation index (NDVI) are key factors affecting C benefits. It is worth noting that the intensive management of constructed ecosystems can result in significant reductions in ecosystem C benefits. Finally, our findings underline the need for low-carbon policies to not only promote carbon sink projects but also enhance the overall capacity of ecosystem services, which could substantially mitigate global climate change.
Template-Directed Replication and Chiral Resolution during Wet–Dry Cycling in Hydrothermal Pools
Authors: Ross David , Deamer David
Published: August 2023

The commonly supposed template-based format for RNA self-replication requires both duplex assembly and disassembly. This requisite binary provision presents a challenge to the development of a serviceable self-replication model since chemical reactions are thermochemically unidirectional. We submit that a solution to this problem lies in volcanic landmasses that engage in continuous cycles of wetting and drying and thus uniquely provide the twofold state required for self-replication. Moreover, they offer conditions that initiate chain branching, and thus furnish a path to autocatalytic self-replication. The foundations of this dual thermochemical landscape arise from the broad differences in the properties of the bulk water phase on the one hand, and the air/water interfacial regions that emerge in the evaporative stages on the other. With this reaction system as a basis and employing recognized thermochemical and kinetic parameters, we present simulations displaying the spontaneous and autocatalyzed conversion of racemic and unactivated RNA monomers to necessarily homochiral duplex structures over characteristic periods of years.
Structure and Properties of Amorphous Quasi-High-Entropy Fe-Co-Ni-Cr-(Mo,V)-B Alloys with Various Boron Content
Authors: Bazlov Andrey , Strochko Ilia , Ubyivovk Evgeny , Parkhomenko Mark , Magomedova Daria , Zanaeva Erzhena
Published: August 2023

This study focuses on the effect of replacing molybdenum with vanadium in rapidly quenched quasi-high-entropy alloys of the Fe-Co-Ni-Cr-(Mo,V)-B system. The paper analyzes the effect of the chemical composition of alloys with different boron content levels on structure formation, characteristic temperatures of alloys, and mechanical properties. An analysis of the relationship between the structure of alloys and their properties is performed. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy methods were used in the work to establish the structural dependencies. Characteristic temperatures were determined by differential scanning calorimetry. It is suggested that the addition of vanadium to the alloys of this system leads to the formation of vanadium nitrides in the structure, due to the binding of dissolved nitrogen. Furthermore, it is found that replacing molybdenum with vanadium leads to an increase in the thermal stability of the amorphous phase.
Effect of Shape Tool Parameters on the Performance of Cold Circular Three-Dimensional Pilger Cross-Section Roll Forming
Authors: Hu Yijian , Li Shuai , Du Xiaozhong , Zhang Yang
Published: August 2023

Compared with other forming processes, Pilger cold rolling exhibits unique process characteristics and a simple production method, making it highly advantageous in terms of high-precision, high-strength, and poor-plasticity alloys. Among them, the design parameters of the rolling mill play a significant role in the rolling results, with the key design parameters being the hole opening angle θ and the hole gap ΔK. In this study, a numerical simulation model for cold rolling an AZ31B magnesium alloy with variable cross-section three-roll Pilger cold rolling was established, and finite element simulation analysis was employed to obtain the comprehensive performance impact law of key design parameters on the cold-rolled AZ31B magnesium alloy. It can be concluded that when the hole opening angle is 10° and the hole gap is 1.2 mm, the equivalent stress and equivalent plastic strain of the billet reach a minimum, and the surface precision is excellent.
Characteristics of Gold Minerals in Gold Concentrate with a High Copper Content and Effective Gold Recovery via Flotation and Ammonia Pretreatment–Cyanidation Leaching
Authors: Liu Yuebing , Wen Shuming
Published: August 2023

The characteristics of ultrafine gold minerals in gold concentrate with a high copper content produced by a large gold mining company in Shandong Province were determined via chemical composition analysis, phase analysis, and mineral liberation analysis. The results showed that the concentrate contained 48.13 g/t gold, which was mainly in the form of native gold and electrum. Regarding the gold mineral particles, 57.65% were completely liberated and 35.75% were associated with chalcopyrite and pyrite. The remainder mainly comprised wrapped intergrowths. The cumulative distributions of native gold and electrum fractions with diameters of less than 75 µm were 82.55% and 90.15%, respectively. Enhanced Cu–S bulk flotation, and then, Cu–S separation from the raw material were proposed to effectively enrich the gold minerals and decrease the treatment throughput during the leaching operation. The optimized conditions yielded a concentrate with a high copper content (3.89% Cu and 545.62 g/t Au contents, and 83.15% Cu and 77.54% Au recoveries) and a concentrate with a high sulfur content (0.059% Cu and 15.03 g/t Au contents, and 83.15% Cu and 21.28% Au recoveries). The capacity of the subsequent leaching process was reduced by 25%. Ammonia pretreatment was introduced to decrease the adverse effect of copper on cyanidation leaching for the copper concentrate. Under the optimized leaching conditions, gold dissolution reached 99.76%, which was approximately 4% higher than that obtained via direct leaching. The NaCN consumption decreased over 10 kg/t. These results could serve as a valuable reference for the economic and green utilization of gold resources from concentrate with a high copper content.
The Evolution of Mineral Hardness Reveals Both Changing Parageneses and Preservational Bias in the Mineralogical Record
Authors: Bermanec Marko , Eleish Ahmed M. , Morrison Shaunna M. , Prabhu Anirudh , Wong Michael L. , Hazen Robert M.
Published: August 2023

A survey of the average Mohs hardness of minerals throughout Earth’s history reveals a significant and systematic decrease from >6 in presolar grains to ~5 for Archean lithologies to <4 for Phanerozoic minerals. Two primary factors contribute to this temporal decrease in the average Mohs hardness. First, selective losses of softer minerals throughout billions of years of near-surface processing lead to preservational biases in the mineral record. Second, changes in the processes of mineral formation play a significant role because more ancient refractory stellar phases and primary igneous minerals of the Hadean/Archean Eon are intrinsically harder than more recently weathered products, especially following the Paleoproterozoic Great Oxidation Event and the production of Phanerozoic biominerals. Additionally, anthropogenic sampling biases resulting from the selective exploration and curation of the mineralogical record may be superimposed on these two factors.
Propolis-Based Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for α-Mangostin Delivery: Formulation, Characterization, and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity Evaluation
Authors: Suhandi Cecep , Wilar Gofarana , Lesmana Ronny , Zulhendri Felix , Suharyani Ine , Hasan Nurhasni , Wathoni Nasrul
Published: August 2023

α-Mangostin (a xanthone derivative found in the pericarp of Garcinia mangostana L.) and propolis extract (which is rich in flavonoids and phenols) are known for their antioxidant properties, making them potential supplements for the treatment of oxidative stress-related conditions. However, these two potential substances have the same primary drawback, which is low solubility in water. The low water solubility of α-mangostin and propolis can be overcome by utilizing nanotechnology approaches. In this study, a propolis-based nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) system was formulated to enhance the delivery of α-mangostin. The aim of this study was to characterize the formulation and investigate its influence on the antioxidant activity of α-mangostin. The results showed that both unloaded propolis-based NLC (NLC-P) and α-mangostin-loaded propolis-based NLC (NLC-P-α-M) had nanoscale particle sizes (72.7 ± 1.082 nm and 80.3 ± 1.015 nm, respectively), neutral surface zeta potential (ranging between +10 mV and −10 mV), and good particle size distribution (indicated by a polydispersity index of <0.3). The NLC-P-α-M exhibited good entrapment efficiency of 87.972 ± 0.246%. Dissolution testing indicated a ~13-fold increase in the solubility of α-mangostin compared to α-mangostin powder alone. The incorporation into the propolis-based NLC system correlated well with the enhanced antioxidant activity of α-mangostin (p < 0.01) compared to NLC-P and α-mangostin alone. Therefore, the modification of the delivery system by incorporating α-mangostin into the propolis-based NLC overcomes the physicochemical challenges of α-mangostin while enhancing its antioxidant effectiveness.
Recycling of Waste Bamboo Biomass and Papermaking Waste Liquid to Synthesize Sodium Lignosulfonate/Chitosan Glue-Free Biocomposite
Authors: Ma Qingzhi , Zheng Guiyang , Jiang Jinxuan , Fan Wei , Ge Shengbo
Published: August 2023

The development of the paper industry has led to the discharge of a large amount of papermaking waste liquid containing lignosulfonate. These lignin black liquids cause a lot of pollution in nature, which runs counter to the current environmental protection strategy under the global goal. Through the development and use of lignosulfonate in papermaking waste liquid to increase the utilization of harmful substances in waste liquid, we aim to promote waste liquid treatment and reduce environmental pollution. This paper proposes a new strategy to synthesize novel glue-free biocomposites with high-performance interfacial compatibility from papermaking by-product sodium lignosulfonate/chitosan (L/C) and waste bamboo. This L/C bamboo biocomposite material has good mechanical properties and durability, low formaldehyde emissions, a high recovery rate, meets the requirements of wood-based panels, and reduces environmental pollution. This method is low in cost, has the potential for large-scale production, and can effectively reduce the environmental pollution of the paper industry, promoting the recycling of biomass and helping the future manufacture of glue-free panels, which can be widely used in the preparation of bookcase, furniture, floor and so on.
mPGES-1 Inhibitor Discovery Based on Computer-Aided Screening: Pharmacophore Models, Molecular Docking, ADMET, and MD Simulations
Authors: Huang Qiqi , Lai Tianli , Wang Qu , Luo Lianxiang
Published: August 2023

mPGES-1 is an enzyme, which, when activated by inflammatory factors, can cause prostaglandin E synthesis. Traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are capable of inhibiting prostaglandin production, yet they can also cause gastrointestinal reactions and coagulation disorders. mPGES-1, the enzyme at the conclusion of prostaglandin production, does not cause any adverse reactions when inhibited. Numerous studies have demonstrated that mPGES-1 is more abundant in cancerous cells than in healthy cells, indicating that decreasing the expression of mPGES-1 could be a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer. Consequently, the invention of mPGES-1 inhibitors presents a fresh avenue for the treatment of inflammation and cancer. Incorporating a database of TCM compounds, we collected a batch of compounds that had an inhibitory effect on mPGES-1 and possessed IC50 value. Firstly, a pharmacophore model was constructed, and the TCM database was screened, and the compounds with score cut-off values of more than 1 were retained. Then, the compounds retained after being screened via the pharmacodynamic model were screened for docking at the mPGES-1 binding site, followed by high-throughput virtual screening [HTVS] and standard precision [SP] and super-precision [XP] docking, and the compounds in the top 20% of the XP docking score were selected to calculate the total free binding energy of MM-GBSA. The best ten compounds were chosen by comparing their score against the reference ligand 4U9 and the MM-GBSA_dG_Bind score. ADMET analysis resulted in the selection of ten compounds, three of which had desirable medicinal properties. Finally, the binding energy of the target protein mPGES-1 and the candidate ligand compound was analyzed using a 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation of the reference ligand 4U9 and three selected compounds. After a gradual screening study and analysis, we identified a structure that is superior to the reference ligand 4U9 in all aspects, namely compound 15643. Taken together, the results of this study reveal a structure that can be used to inhibit mPGES-1 compound 15643, thereby providing a new option for anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor drugs.