bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Study on Cryogenic Compressed Hydrogen Jet Flames
Authors: Nie Shishuai , Cai Peng , Liu Huan , Zhou Yonghao , Liu Yi , Yu Anfeng
Published: November 2024

Cryogenic compressed hydrogen (CcH2) technology combines the advantages of high pressure and low temperature to achieve high hydrogen storage density without liquefying the hydrogen, which has broad application prospects. However, the safety concerns related to cryogenic hydrogen need to be carefully addressed beforehand. In the present work, cryogenic hydrogen jet flames are experimentally investigated for various release pressures and initial temperatures. The flame length and thermal radiation flux were measured for horizontally releasing with nozzle diameters of 0.5–2 mm, temperatures ranging from 93 to 298 K, and initial pressures of 2–10 MPa. The results show that the flame length is dependent on the nozzle diameter, stagnation pressure and temperature. At a given pressure, the flame length, size and total radiant power increase with decreasing temperature, which is attributed to the lower jet flow velocity and higher density of low-temperature hydrogen. The normalized flame length Lf/D is correlated with the pressure ratio and temperature ratio. The correlation can be used to predict the flame length at various hydrogen pressures and temperatures. The normalized flame length of the cryogenic hydrogen jet flame is greater than that of the room-temperature hydrogen jet flame. The radiative heat flux of the flame can be predicted by the mass flow rate of the jet flow.
Construction of Sensory Evaluation System of Purple Sweet Potato Rice Steamed Sponge Cake Based on Fuzzy Mathematics
Authors: Cai Hongyan , Liu Yanting , Jin Weiping , Li Fang , Chen Xuan , Yang Guoyan , Shen Wangyang
Published: November 2024

This paper presents the establishment of a sensory evaluation system for purple sweet potato rice steamed sponge cake (PSPRSSC) utilizing fuzzy mathematics. Initially, eight key sensory evaluation indices were identified through expert consultations. These indices were subsequently prioritized using fuzzy binary comparison, resulting in the following order: aroma, taste, crust color, elasticity, viscosity, chewiness, hardness, and brightness. The corresponding weight values assigned to each index were 23%, 18%, 16%, 13%, 12%, 8%, 6%, and 4%, respectively. Notably, aroma was found to have a more significant impact than visual attributes in the sensory evaluation of PSPRSSC. Based on this prioritization, comprehensive sensory evaluation criteria for PSPRSSC were formulated. Verification tests confirmed the efficacy of the proposed evaluation system. This study provides critical data and theoretical support for the sensory quality assessment of PSPRSSC, thereby facilitating its industrialization and enhancing its market viability.
Probiotic, Postbiotic, and Paraprobiotic Effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus as a Modulator of Obesity-Associated Factors
Authors: López-Almada Gabriela , Mejía-León María Esther , Salazar-López Norma Julieta
Published: November 2024

Obesity is a pandemic currently affecting the world’s population that decreases the quality of life and promotes the development of chronic non-communicable diseases. Lactobacillus rhamnosus is recognized for multiple positive effects on obesity and overall health. In fact, such effects may occur even when the microorganisms do not remain alive (paraprobiotic effects). This raises the need to elucidate the mechanisms by which obesity-associated factors can be modulated. This narrative review explores recent findings on the effects of L. rhamnosus, particularly, its postbiotic and paraprobiotic effects, on the modulation of adiposity, weight gain, oxidative stress, inflammation, adipokines, satiety, and maintenance of intestinal integrity, with the aim of providing a better understanding of its mechanisms of action in order to contribute to streamlining its clinical and therapeutic applications. The literature shows that L. rhamnosus can modulate obesity-associated factors when analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, its postbiotic and paraprobiotic effects may be comparable to the more studied probiotic actions. Some mechanisms involve regulation of gene expression, intracellular signaling, and enteroendocrine communication, among others. We conclude that the evidence is promising, although there are still multiple knowledge gaps that require further study in order to fully utilize L. rhamnosus to improve human health.
Structural Characteristics and Immunological Function of a New Non-Starch Polysaccharide from Red Sprout Taro
Authors: Luo Sha , Xiao Yao , Ali Asjad , Zhu Qianglong , Shan Nan , Sun Jingyu , Wang Shenglin , Xiao Jianhui , Huang Yingjin , Zhou Qinghong
Published: November 2024

Taro is a tuber crop that is used for nutritional and medicinal purposes due to its abundance of non-starch polysaccharides (NSPs). Red Sprout taro is a local variety in Southern China, but the characteristics and bioactivities of its NSPs are currently unknown. In this study, NSPs were isolated from the corms of Red Sprout taro using hot-water extraction, ion-exchange chromatography, and ethanol precipitation; their molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, structural formulae, and immunomodulatory effects were examined. A novel NSP named Colocasia esculenta polysaccharide 1 (CEP1) was purified and characterized and was shown to mainly consist of glucose (60.49%) and galactose (25.92%) and have a molecular weight of 4556.272 kDa. The backbone of CEP1 consisted primarily of →4)-α-D-Glcp-(1→, →4,6)-β-D-Galp-(1→, and →3)-β-D-Galp-(1→ residues, with a branch consisting of the β-D-Glcp-(1→ residue. In addition, 25–400 µg/mL CEP1 was shown to have immunomodulatory effects on RAW264.7 macrophages. CEP1 not only increased cell viability, phagocytic capacity, inducible nitric oxide synthase secretion, and nitric oxide generation in RAW264.7 cells, but it also activated M1 and M2 macrophages to generate tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 6, transforming growth factor β, and interleukin 10. These findings could lead to the use of CEP1 from Red Sprout taro as a possible immunomodulatory polysaccharide in functional foods.
Factors Considered for the Assessment of Risk in Administrative Review Boards of Canada: A Scoping Review
Authors: Pellerin Jane-Caroline , Désilets Marie , Borduas Pagé Stéphanie , Hudon Alexandre
Published: November 2024

Background: This scoping review examines the risk factors considered in assessing the dangerousness of individuals found Not Criminally Responsible on Account of Mental Disorder (NCRMD) in Canadian administrative courts. This review aims to identify the factors used by mental health review boards during annual case reviews to guide decisions on detention or release. Methods: Using a scoping review approach following PRISMA guidelines, this study analyzed research across multiple databases to identify relevant studies focusing on risk assessment for NCRMD cases. Results: The findings indicate that five primary categories of risk factors—historical, clinical, behavioral, legal, and miscellaneous—are influential in the decision-making process. Historical factors, such as past violence and early psychiatric contacts, are critical in predicting future risk. Clinical factors, including psychiatric diagnosis and treatment adherence, are key to evaluating current and potential future risks. This study reveals variability in the application of standardized risk assessment tools, highlighting a need for more consistent practices across Canadian jurisdictions. Conclusion: This review concludes that, while a multifaceted approach to risk assessment is essential for balancing public safety with individual rehabilitation, further research is needed to refine these processes and establish more uniform standards for managing NCRMD cases in forensic psychiatry.
A Computational Fluid Dynamics Study on the Effect of Drilling Parameters on Wellbore Cleaning in Oil Wells
Authors: Doghmane Bachir , Hadj Guenaoui Younes , Laalam Aimen , Ouadi Habib
Published: November 2024

Poor wellbore cleaning is a significant challenge in oil drilling, primarily due to the accumulation of cuttings at the bottom of the well, particularly in deviated and horizontal wells. This study addresses this issue by employing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) with the commercial software ANSYS FLUENT (2023-R1) to simulate a solid–liquid multiphase flow in an annulus. The primary objective is to analyze the cuttings concentration, pressure loss, and solid velocity profiles across various drilling parameters, including drill pipe rotation, the flow rate, rate of penetration, inclination angle, and fluid rheology. Our results underscore the critical role of these parameters in enhancing cuttings transport efficiency. Specifically, the drill pipe rotation, flow rate, and rate of penetration emerge as the most influential factors affecting the wellbore cleaning performance. With a validated model exhibiting an average error of 4.24%, this study provides insights into optimizing drilling operations to improve wellbore cleaning and increase hydrocarbon recovery.
Carbonization of Refuse-Derived Fuel Pellets with Biomass Incorporation to Solid Fuel Production
Authors: Longo Andrei , Pacheco Nuno , Panizio Roberta , Vilarinho Cândida , Brito Paulo , Gonçalves Margarida
Published: November 2024

In this work, dry carbonization (DC) and hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) pellets were conducted to evaluate the physical, chemical, and fuel properties of the produced chars. In the dry carbonization tests, biomass sawdust was incorporated in different proportions on the samples to minimize agglomeration caused by the melting of the plastic fraction. The experiments were carried out in a temperature of 400 °C (DC) and 250–300 °C (HTC), in a residence time of 30 min. The respective chars and hydrochars were characterized according to their mass yield, apparent density, proximate, elemental, and mineral composition, chlorine content, high heating value, thermogravimetric profile, and surface functional groups. The results showed that the dry carbonization of RDF pellets with biomass incorporation, followed by a washing step, resulted in the production of chars with improved properties such as higher fixed carbon and higher heating value (HHV) (25–26 MJ/kg) and lower ash and chlorine content. Additionally, the HTC experiments demonstrated that hydrochars showed improved properties without the need for biomass addition and washing, however, with no significant difference in the HHV (20–21 MJ/kg). Therefore, DC of RDF pellets with 10% biomass incorporation seems to be a promising option to overcome the constraints of RDF utilization as an alternative fuel.
Methodology for Automatically Detecting Pan–Tilt–Zoom CCTV Camera Drift in Advanced Traffic Management System Networks
Authors: Gartner Christopher , Mathew Jijo K. , Bullock Darcy
Published: November 2024

Many transportation agencies have deployed pan–tilt–zoom (PTZ) closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to monitor roadway conditions and coordinate traffic incident management (TIM), particularly in urbanized areas. Pre-programmed “presets” provide the ability to rapidly position a camera on regions of highways. However, camera views occasionally develop systematic deviations from their original presets due to a variety of factors, such as camera change-outs, routine maintenance, drive belt slippage, bracket movements, and even minor vehicle crashes into the camera support structures. Scheduled manual calibration is one way to systematically eliminate these positioning problems, but it is more desirable to develop automated techniques to detect and alert agencies of potential drift. This is particularly useful for agencies with large camera networks, often numbering in the 1000’s. This paper proposes a methodology using the mean Structured Similarity Index Measure (SSIM) to compare images for a current observation to a stored original image with identical PTZ coordinates. Analyzing images using the mean SSIM generates a single value, which is then aggregated every week to generate potential drift alerts. This methodology was applied to 2200 images from 49 cameras over a 12-month period, which generated less than 30 alerts that required manual validation to determine the confirmed drift detection rate. Approximately 57% of those alerts were confirmed to be camera drift. This paper concludes with the limitations of the methodology and future research opportunities to possibly increase alert accuracy in an active deployment.
Too Many Couch Potatoes Among Middle-Aged Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients: Findings from the “BE-FIT-IBD-2” Study
Authors: Gravina Antonietta Gerarda , Pellegrino Raffaele , Palladino Giovanna , Zanini Annalisa , Federico Alessandro , Zingone Fabiana
Published: November 2024

Background: Regular physical activity (PA) is desirable, regardless of age, even in patients with chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Aims: This study aims to assess PA levels and related barriers/facilitators in IBD patients, stratifying them into age groups (with a threshold of 50 years). Methods: The International PA Questionnaire (IPAQ) assessed PA levels regarding resting metabolic rate (Met) in minutes per week (min/wk). Patient-reported outcomes 2 (PRO-2) evaluated disease activity. Results: Among the 237 enrolled patients, PA rates were found to differ significantly in terms of patients being sufficiently active (55% vs. 39.8%), inactive (39.6% vs. 59.1%), and engaging in health-enhancing PA (5.4% vs. 1.1%) between patients under and at least 50 years old, respectively (p < 0.001). Overall, PA levels followed this trend, being higher in younger patients [892 (446.5–1439) vs. 545.25 (257–1210.47) Met min/wk, p = 0.007]. Individuals aged at least 50 years tend to have lower PA at regression analysis (OR: 3.302, p = 0.018). Patients aged at least 50 years perceived IBD as more of a barrier to PA (p = 0.04). Bowel urgency is a significant barrier, especially in older patients (p = 0.022). Conclusions: Age is an unmodifiable factor impacting and influencing PA levels. Strategies to recover exercise levels in older IBD patients should be encouraged.
CT and MR Imaging of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Okada Masahiro , Aoki Ryoji , Nakazawa Yujiro , Tago Kenichiro , Numata Kazushi
Published: November 2024

Liver masses are routinely evaluated using ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI may be used for further investigation in cases with atypical findings and difficult diagnoses. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignancy, and it is important to know the exact spread and number of HCCs, as there are numerous treatment options. In addition, it is important to know how the differentiations of HCCs are reflected on the images, and what the subtypes of HCCs look like on the images. Elastography with US and MRI is increasingly used to measure liver stiffness, and non-invasive assessment of liver fibrosis is also possible. This review describes the diagnosis of HCC on commonly used CT and MRI, and also touches on the frontiers of imaging diagnosis of liver parenchymal changes such as liver cirrhosis.
A Natural Carbon Encapsulated in Gellan-Based Hydrogel Particles Designed for Environmental Challenges
Authors: Tincu (Iurciuc) Camelia-Elena , Hamcerencu Mihaela , Secula Marius Sebastian , Stan Corneliu Sergiu , Albu Cristina , Popa Marcel , Volf Irina
Published: November 2024

This article reports the obtention of a new gellan-based hydrogel linked with Fe3+ and loaded with a natural micro/nanostructured carbon designed as a contaminant’s removal from wastewater. Hydrogels are known for their water-retaining properties, high binding capacity, and eco-friendly features. The new material is expected to behave as one cost-effective and efficient sorbent, including natural carbon structures with various functional groups. The encapsulation efficiency ranges between 89% and 95%. The obtained hydrogel particles were characterized using FT-IR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy techniques. The hydrogel particles’ water stability was evaluated by measuring the transmittance for 10 days, and the capacity to retain water was assessed by determining the swelling degree (Q%). The results showed that hydrogel particles are stable (the transmittance value is higher than 97.8% after 10 days), and their properties are influenced by the cross-linking degree, the amount of the carbon particles encapsulated, and the concentration of gellan. For example, the Q% values and encapsulation efficiency increased when the cross-linking degree, the carbon microstructure quantity, and the gellan concentration decreased. The new hybrid material can retain Pb(II) ions and diclofenac molecules, and could be used in different adsorption–desorption cycles.
NF-ΚB Activation as a Key Driver in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Evolution to Richter’s Syndrome: Unraveling the Influence of Immune Microenvironment Dynamics
Authors: Rohan Paulo , Binato Renata , Abdelhay Eliana
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common adult leukemia in Western countries and it can progress to Richter’s syndrome (RS), a more aggressive condition. The NF-κB pathway is pivotal in CLL pathogenesis, driven mainly by B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling. However, recent evidence indicates that BCR signaling is reduced in RS, raising questions about whether and how NF-κB activity is maintained in RS. This study aims to elucidate the triggers and dynamics of NF-κB activation and the progression from CLL to RS. Methods: Integrated single-cell RNA sequencing data from peripheral blood samples of four CLL–RS patients were analyzed. NF-κB pathway activity and gene expression profiles were assessed to determine changes in NF-κB components and their targets. Tumor microenvironment composition and cell–cell communication patterns were inferred to explore NF-κB regulatory mechanisms. Results: RS samples showed increased proportions of malignant cells expressing NF-κB components, including NFKB1, NFKB2, RELA, IKBKG, MAP3K14, CHUK, and IKBKB, with significantly higher expression levels than in CLL. Enhanced NF-κB pathway activity in RS cells was associated with targets involved in immune modulation. The tumor microenvironment in RS displayed significant compositional changes, and signaling inference revealed enhanced cell–cell communication via BAFF and APRIL pathways, involving interactions with receptors such as BAFF-R and TACI on RS cells. Conclusions: The findings from this study reveal an active state of NF-κB in RS and suggest that this state plays a critical role in the evolution of CLL to RS, which is modulated by alternative signaling pathways and the influence of the tumor microenvironment.
Climate Change Impact on the Stability of Soil Slopes from a Hydrological and Geotechnical Perspective
Authors: Psarropoulos Prodromos N. , Makrakis Nikolaos , Tsompanakis Yiannis
Published: November 2024

Climate change (CC) is expected to cause significant changes in weather patterns, leading to extreme phenomena. Specifically, the intensity of precipitation extremes is continuously escalating, even in regions with decreasing average precipitation levels. Given that CC leads to long-term shifts in weather patterns and may affect the precipitation characteristics (i.e., frequency, duration, and intensity) directly related to groundwater table fluctuations and soil erosion phenomena, it has the potential to significantly affect soil slope instabilities. In turn, slope stability and the structural integrity of nearby structures and infrastructure will be affected. Accordingly, the present paper focuses on the impact of CC on the geohazard of soil slope instability by considering both hydrological aspects, i.e., the impact on rainfall intensity on the groundwater table and the geotechnical aspects of this complex problem. The findings reveal that the impact of CC on potential slope instabilities can be detrimental or even beneficial, depending on the specific site and water conditions. Therefore, it is essential to do the following: (a) collect all the available data of the area of interest, (b) assess their variations over time, and (c) examine each potentially unstable slope on a case-by-case basis to properly mitigate this geohazard.
Topographic–Vegetation Interactions on an Incipient Foredune Field Post-Tropical Storm
Authors: Ellis Jean T. , Harris Michelle E. , Barrineau Brianna F.
Published: November 2024

Sand dunes protect the most important economic and ecologically critical landscapes from coastal hazards (storms and high-tide flooding). The characteristics of the dune affect their protective ability. This paper qualitatively and quantitatively assesses the relationships between pre- and post-storm conditions for vegetation and the morphology of an incipient dune system along the South Carolina coast. Field-based dune vegetation and morphology measurements were obtained before and after tropical storm Dorian (2019). Vegetation is assessed with respect to distribution and functional type, and subgroups are introduced to categorize land cover transitions. At the quadrat scale (0.2 m2) following the storm, there was a shift from stabilizer to builder, a decrease of sand (2%), and the vegetation remained consistent at around 61% of the land cover. Transect-level analysis (0.2 m × 1.0 m) revealed distinct variability concerning post-storm morphology change in the extreme study site extents. Dorian resulted in approximately 10% volumetric loss over the entire study site (101 m2). This study demonstrated changes to a dune system following a tropical storm with wind as the dominant forcing factor. This study revealed that vegetation presence is not broadly correlated with reduced levels of post-storm erosion.
A Review of Particle Packing Models and Their Applications to Characterize Properties of Sand-Silt Mixtures
Authors: Chang Ching S. , Chao Jason
Published: November 2024

This paper reviews particle packing models and explores their application in geotechnical engineering, specifically for sand-silt mixtures. The review covers key models, including limiting case, linear, and non-linear packing models, focusing on their mathematical structures, physical principles, assumptions, and limitations through the concept of excess free volume. The application of particle packing models in geotechnical engineering is explored in characterizing the properties of sand-silt mixtures, offering insights into maximum, minimum, and critical void ratios and inter-granular void ratio, and the prediction of mechanical properties.
Identifying the Relationship Between Residential Type and Health Outcomes of the Community-Dwelling Thai Older Adults in the Baseline Analysis of a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mulati Nadila , Aung Myo Nyein , Moolphate Saiyud , Aung Thin Nyein Nyein , Koyanagi Yuka , Supakankunti Siripen , Yuasa Motoyuki
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: As people age, their environment plays a critical role in shaping their health. With Thailand’s rapidly aging population, it is crucial to understand how different living environments affect the well-being of older adults. This study examines differences in biopsychosocial health indicators between older adults living in village communities and private housing estates in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using baseline data from the Community-Integrated Intermediary Care (CIIC) Service Model, a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial in Thailand (TCTR20190412004). The study included 2788 older adults (aged 60+). Of these, 89.49% resided in village communities, and 10.51% in private housing estates. Validated instruments were used to assess health indicators. Descriptive statistics, multivariate analysis of variance, and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: Older adults in private housing estates had significantly lower odds of experiencing pain or discomfort (Adj OR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.49–0.84) and were 1.36 times more likely to report positive perceived health. However, they had lower odds of perceiving themselves as physically and socially active (Adj OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.57–0.97) and were 0.30 times less likely to rate their quality of life higher (Adj OR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.22–0.40) compared to their village community counterparts. Conclusions: The residential environment significantly influences older adults’ health and well-being. Tailored health promotion interventions should leverage the unique strengths of both village communities and private housing estates to enhance social connections, physical activity, and quality of life, promoting healthy, active aging across diverse settings.
Epigenomic Reprogramming in Gout
Authors: Straton Ancuta R. , Kischkel Brenda , Crișan Tania O. , Joosten Leo A. B.
Published: November 2024

Gout is a crystal-induced arthropathy in which monosodium urate (MSU) crystals precipitate within joints as a result of persistent hyperuricemia and elicit an inflammatory response. An intriguing aspect is the occurrence of gout in only 10–15% of hyperuricemic individuals, suggesting the presence of additional risk factors. Although MSU crystal deposition is widely recognized as the cause of gout flares, the variability in initiating the inflammatory response to hyperuricemia and MSU deposition is not well understood. Several studies bring up-to-date information about the environmental and genetic influences on the progression towards clinical gout. Elevated urate concentrations and exposure to different external factors precipitate gout flares, highlighting the potential involvement of epigenetic mechanisms in gouty inflammation. A better understanding of the alteration of the epigenetic landscape in gout may provide new perspectives on the dysregulated inflammatory response. In this review, we focus on understanding the current view of the role of epigenomic reprogramming in gout and the mechanistic pathways of action.
Utilization of Syndromic Vaginitis Diagnostic Testing Reduces 6-Month Follow-Up Outpatient Service Healthcare Costs—A Real-World Data Analysis
Authors: Evans Azia , Fragala Maren S. , Upadhyay Pallavi , French Andrea , Goldberg Steven E. , Reddy Jairus
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Vaginitis is a common infection among women of reproductive age. Although various diagnostic methodologies exist, diagnosis without the utilization of available diagnostic tests remains prevalent. This study aimed to assess downstream healthcare utilization and the cost of patients with and without diagnostic testing. Methods: This retrospective, observational study utilized the IQVIA PharMetrics® Plus database from July 2020 to October 2023. Patients with an index claim (ICD-10 code indicating vaginitis) were categorized into two cohorts: those who received a syndromic polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and those who had no documented test on the index date or within two days. Total and service-specific healthcare resource utilization and costs were assessed for 6 months following the index event. This study was designed to inform how Syndromic Vaginitis PCR testing is used to make treatment decisions and to track outpatient and inpatient healthcare utilization for 6 months post index date represented by cost. Results: Patients who received a Syndromic Vaginitis PCR test had significantly fewer outpatient medical services in the 6 months following initial diagnosis compared to those who received no diagnostic test. This was largely attributed to a substantial decrease in other medical service visits, resulting in mean cost savings of USD 2067 (Syndromic PCR = USD 6675, SD = USD 17,187; No Test = USD 8742, SD = USD 29,894) (p-value 0.0009). Conclusions: Many vaginitis patients do not receive testing, but Syndromic Vaginitis PCR testing may be an effective diagnostic tool for reducing costs associated with vaginitis infections.
Impact of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Patients with Acute Heart Failure: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Alharbi Abdulmajeed , Bansal Nahush , Alsughayer Anas , Shah Momin , Alruwaili Waleed , Mhanna Mohammed , Alfatlawi Halah , Kwak Eun Seo , Salih Ayman , Qwaider Mohanad , Assaly Ragheb
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Heart failure presents a significant public health challenge, affecting millions in the US, with projections of increasing prevalence and economic burdens. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is highly prevalent among HF patients. This study analyzes the impact of OSA on the outcomes in patients admitted with acute decompensated heart failure. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the National Inpatient Sample database (NIS) 2020, focusing on patients admitted with acute heart failure. Patient outcomes were compared between those with and without a secondary diagnosis of OSA, identified via validated ICD-10 codes. Subgroup analysis was conducted between heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Results: Among 65,649 patients with acute heart failure, 4595 (7%) patients were found to have OSA. The patients with OSA were more likely to be male, older in age and had a higher burden of comorbidities. No significant differences were observed in mortality between heart failure patients with and without OSA. In HFrEF patients, OSA was associated with longer hospital stays (6.45 days vs. 5.79 days, p < 0.001), higher rates of acute kidney injury (AKI) (adjusted odds ratio 1.28, 95% CI: 1.07–1.54, p = 0.007), and atrial fibrillation (adjusted odds ratio 1.35, 95% CI: 1.13–1.61, p = 0.001). In HFpEF patients, an association between OSA and AF was observed (adjusted odds ratio 1.20, 95% CI: 1.01–1.42, p = 0.03). Conclusions: OSA is associated with poor in-hospital outcomes in patients admitted with acute heart failure. HFrEF subgroup is especially vulnerable, with OSA leading to a significant increase in healthcare utilization and complication rates in these patients. This nationwide study underscores the importance of timely identification and treatment of OSA in heart failure to alleviate healthcare burdens and improve patient outcomes.
Potential of Low-Cost UAV Photogrammetry for Documenting Hard-to-Access Interior Spaces Through Building Openings
Authors: Marčiš Marián , Fraštia Marek , Terao Vošková Katarína
Published: November 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are primarily used in the field of cultural heritage for mapping the exteriors of larger objects and documenting the roofs and façades of tall structures that cannot be efficiently or feasibly measured using conventional terrestrial technologies and methods. However, due to the considerable diversity of cultural heritage, there are practical demands for the measurement of complex and inaccessible objects in interior spaces. This article focuses on the use of two different off-the-shelf UAVs for partial photogrammetric reconstruction of the attic of a mining house, which was only visible through a window in the gable wall. Data from both UAVs were compared with each other and with terrestrial laser scanning. Despite the lower quality of the results from the DJI Mini 4 Pro compared to the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise, the results from both UAVs would still be suitable for documenting the interior attic spaces. However, a detailed analysis of the photogrammetric data indicates that, when selecting a UAV for this purpose, it is necessary to consider the limitations of the camera system, which may lead to a reduction in the geometric accuracy and completeness of the point clouds.
Looking at the Modern to Better Understand the Ancient: Is It Possible to Differentiate Mars Pigments from Archaeological Ochres?
Authors: Carangi Maria Cecilia , Corti Cristina , Rampazzi Laura
Published: November 2024

This article offers a discussion of the possibility of distinguishing ochres from Mars pigments. The discussion addresses technological, archaeological, and artistic aspects. Natural earth pigments such as ochres, siennas, and umbers have been widely used from the Paleolithic to the present day and still find wide application despite the development of synthetic iron oxide pigment synthesis processes, called Mars pigments. The potential ability of today’s analytical techniques to distinguish between two classes of pigments of the same color with very similar chemical composition—but perhaps sufficient for reliable recognition—is also discussed. The paper begins by addressing the proper use of the terms “ochres” and “Mars pigments” and their accurate identification in artworks. It reviews the literature on the chemical–mineralogical characterization of yellow and red iron pigments and analyzes pigment catalogs to understand how companies distinguish ochres from Mars pigments. An experimental analysis using External Reflection Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR-ER) compared painting samples made with natural ochres and Mars pigments, confirming the literature findings and suggesting future research directions. Key differences such as hematite in yellow ochres and specific spectral peaks in red ochres support the potential of FTIR-ER spectroscopy as a noninvasive tool for distinguishing pigments, especially for fragile artifacts and archaeological applications.
Nutritional Quality, Functional Properties, and Biological Characterization of Watermeal (Wolffia globosa)
Authors: Boonarsa Parinya , Bunyatratchata Apichaya , Chumroenphat Theeraphan , Thammapat Pornpisanu , Chaikwang Tipaukson , Siripan Tarathep , Li Hua , Siriamornpun Sirithon
Published: November 2024

Watermeal (Wolffia globosa) has emerged as a promising candidate as an alternative protein source due to its outstanding nutritional profile. This study evaluated the nutritional quality, functional properties, and biological characteristics of W. globosa. The protein content was found to be high at 26.76 g/100 g of dry weight (DW). Functional properties, including water and oil holding capacities, protein solubility, foaming, and emulsifying abilities across different pH levels, were assessed to determine optimal conditions. Amino acid profiling revealed that essential amino acids constitute 67% of the total amino acids. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly α-linolenic (18:3 n-3) and linoleic acids (18:2 n-6), were identified as the predominant fatty acids. Additionally, watermeal was found to contain significant amounts of α-tocopherol (699 µg/g) and γ-oryzanol (100 µg/g), which contribute to its antioxidant capacity, as confirmed by DPPH and FRAP assays. The prominent protein bands were observed at around 62–67 kDa, likely representing a structural, metabolic protein (vicilin-like protein) of 38% of the total protein content. Overall, W. globosa demonstrates significant potential as a functional food ingredient, offering a rich nutrient profile and health-promoting properties, making it a promising choice for future diets.
Tuning the Morphology of Transition Metal Disulfides: Advances in Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Jakkanawar Shravani S. , Chavan Vijay D. , Kim Deok-Kee , Bhat Tejasvinee S. , Yadav Hemraj M.
Published: November 2024

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in the renewable energy system has gained a lot of attention from researchers as hydrogen is assumed to be a clean and renewable carrier. Transition metals and their compounds have been used as promising alternatives to precious noble metals for the HER, offering low cost, more availability, and high activity. In this work, we discussed the mechanisms of the HER and how morphology influenced the catalytic performance of transition metal disulfide (TMD), focusing on structures that range from zero-dimensional (0D) to three-dimensional (3D) TMD materials. Notably, two-dimensional (2D) TMDs, like nanosheets, exhibit the lowest overpotential and a very small Tafel slope, which can be ascribed to their inherent layered structure and large surface area. According to recent research reports, the efficacy and efficiency of the HER process are influenced by surface chemistry, electrochemical characteristics, and the existence of active sites.
Multidisciplinary Approach in Rare, Fulminant-Progressing, and Life-Threatening Facial Necrotizing Fasciitis
Authors: Pertea Mihaela , Luca Stefana , Tatar Raluca , Huzum Bogdan , Ciofu Mihai , Poroch Vladimir , Palade Dragos Octavian , Vrinceanu Daniela , Balan Mihail , Grosu Oxana Madalina
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: Necrotizing fasciitis is known as a severe condition with a high risk of mortality, placing it among the most feared infections. In most cases, it has a polymicrobial etiology (type 1), requiring complex treatment that is continuously adapted to the evolving microbiological status. The facial localization of the disease is rare, fulminant progressing, and is often life-threatening. (2) Methods: We present the case of a patient with multiple comorbidities who, following trauma to the nasal dorsum, developed a wound with a rapid and severe progression to extensive bilateral periorbital necrosis. This was accompanied by a dramatic deterioration in their general condition, a polymicrobial biological status, and fluctuating progression despite instituted treatment (both medical and surgical). (3) Results: The patient required multiple surgical interventions by multidisciplinary teams (plastic surgery; ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT); maxillofacial surgery; and ophthalmology), experiencing periods of a severe, life-threatening general condition, necessitating prolonged orotracheal intubation. Wounds with fluctuating progression, extensive skin necrosis, and significant post-excisional soft tissue defects required skin graft coverage. The result meant a saved life and functional and aesthetic sequelae at the level of the face. (4) Conclusions: Necrotizing fasciitis of the face is a rare and severe disease that must be recognized early and treated appropriately by a multidisciplinary team to save the patient’s life and minimize the resulting functional and aesthetic sequelae.
Academic Performance, Health and Support Needs: Comparing Foster Care Alumni and Peers in Higher Education in Norway
Authors: Lehmann Stine , Hysing Mari , Sivertsen Børge
Published: November 2024

The completion rates of higher education are low among young adults with a history of foster care. Understanding how students from foster care alumni fare is imperative for facilitating attainment and preventing drop-out. The aim of this study was to compare students from foster care alumni and the general student population by examining (1) sociodemographic characteristics, academic functioning and need for special assistance; (2) contextual factors important for student life; and (3) mental and somatic health, loneliness, life satisfaction and use of cannabis and alcohol. Data comprised self-reports from the Norwegian national survey Students’ Health and Well-being Study 2022. Reports from foster care alumni students (n = 508) were compared to those of the general student sample (n = 59,036). Compared to the general sample, twice as many foster care alumni students reported receiving or needing special assistance in their studies. Moreover, they reported substantially higher economic burden than their student peers, by higher frequency of work income, more financial worries, and less parental financial support. Foster care alumni students also reported a higher load of informal care responsibilities, poorer mental and somatic health, more loneliness and lower life satisfaction. Foster care alumni students fare comparably well in terms of grades and study progression despite the reported economic burden and impaired health and well-being. As these are factors shown to impact study completion, policies need to be put in place to ensure that care-experienced students receive adequate support through their young adulthood and specifically in higher education.
Unveiling Intangible Assets: Exploring Voluntary Disclosure and Its Interaction with Accounting Conservatism and Analyst Attention on Financing Constraints
Authors: Li Congrong , Ning Zhe
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the relationship between the voluntary disclosure of intangible assets and financing constraints using a sample of 2850 listed companies from 2017 to 2021. Additionally, we examine the moderating effects of prudence in accounting and the attention given to the disclosures by analysts from both an internal and an external perspective. The results show that voluntarily disclosing intangible assets helps to alleviate a firm’s financing constraints, with more significant effects observed in state-owned enterprises and companies listed on the Growth Enterprise Market index than for private enterprises and those listed on the main board of the Chinese capital market. Further, conservatism in accounting and attention given by financial analysts both positively moderate this relationship. The theoretical and empirical insights provided by this study should help listed companies in China to enhance the quality of their voluntary intangible asset disclosures, while also helping to mitigate financing constraints.
Multi-Scale Effects of Supply–Demand Changes in Water-Related Ecosystem Services Across Different Landscapes in River Basin
Authors: Ouyang Bin , Yan Zhigang , Jiang Yuncheng , Deng Chuanjun , Chen Yanhong , Wu Longhua
Published: November 2024

To promote sustainable hierarchical management, it is essential to understand the complex relationships within and underlying causes of supply–demand changes in water-related ecosystem services (WESs) across different spatial scales and landscape patterns. Consequently, the Optimal Parameters-based Geographical Detector (OPGD) and Multi-Scale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR) are used to analyze the factors influencing changes in WESs supply–demand. The findings indicate that (1) at the macroscale, population size, and economic activity are the main driving factors, while at the microscale, precipitation becomes the primary factor influencing fluctuations in WESs supply–demand. (2) Furthermore, over time, the influence of social factors becomes increasingly significant. (3) The explanatory power of a single factor typically increases as it interacts with other factors. (4) Abundant precipitation helps in the generation and maintenance of WESs, but intense human activities may have negative impacts on them. Therefore, we have made significant progress in identifying and analyzing the natural and human-induced driving forces affecting changes in WESs by deeply integrating long-term multi-source remote sensing data with the OPGD and MGWR models.
Structural Catalytic Core in Subtilisin-like Proteins and Its Comparison to Trypsin-like Serine Proteases and Alpha/Beta-Hydrolases
Authors: Denesyuk Alexander I. , Denessiouk Konstantin , Johnson Mark S. , Uversky Vladimir N.
Published: November 2024

Subtilisin-like proteins are serine proteases that use two types of catalytic triads: Ser-His-Asp and Ser-Glu-Asp. Here, we investigate the two known families of subtilisin-like proteins, the subtilases (Ser-His-Asp triad) and the serine-carboxyl proteinases (Ser-Glu-Asp triad), and describe the local structural arrangements (cores) that govern the catalytic residues in these proteins. We show the separation of the cores into conserved structural zones, which can be repeatedly found in different structures, and compare the structural cores in subtilisin-like proteins with those in trypsin-like serine proteases and alpha/beta-hydrolases.
Evaluation of the Use of Methylation as a New Tool for the Diagnostics and Progression of Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions
Authors: Pruski Dominik , Millert-Kalińska Sonja , Lis Agata , Pelc Ewa , Konopelski Przemysław , Jach Robert , Przybylski Marcin
Published: November 2024

Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) significantly reduces the incidence of HPV-related lesions worldwide. Considering the increasingly young age of patients in gynecological offices and earlier sexual initiation and potential contact with the HPV virus, doctors need the tools to verify diagnoses. Currently, women plan to pursue motherhood later, so it is necessary to consider whether sexual treatment in the form of, among others, loop electrosurgical excision procedures (LEEPs) may increase the risk of premature birth or difficulty dilating the cervix during labour. For this reason, to avoid the overtreatment of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSILs), methylation testing may be considered. In patients with histopathologically confirmed high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs) during biopsy and, ultimately, a lower diagnosis, i.e., LSIL or no signs of atypia, methylation was found to be a useful tool. We performed a Pap smear, HPV genotyping, a punch biopsy, LEEP-conization (if needed), and methylation tests on 108 women admitted to the District Public Hospital in Poland. Women with a negative methylation test result were significantly more likely to be ultimately diagnosed with LSIL (p = 0.013). This means that in 85.7% of the patients with HSIL, major cervical surgery could be avoided if the methylation test was negative. Methylation testing, as well as dual-staining and diagnostics detecting the mRNA transcripts of highly oncogenic types of HPV, might be used in the future in the diagnosis of pre-cancerous conditions, mainly of the cervix, and in HPV-dependent cervical cancer screening. The methylation test may also be used in the diagnosis and identification of lesions within the cervical canal, including those located deep within the frontal crypts, not visible even during a professional colposcopic evaluation of the cervix.
Impact on Human Health of Salmonella spp. and Their Lipopolysaccharides: Possible Therapeutic Role and Asymptomatic Presence Consequences
Authors: Mikołajczyk Mateusz , Złotkowska Dagmara , Mikołajczyk Anita
Published: November 2024

Epidemiologically, one of the most important concerns associated with introducing Salmonella spp. into the environment and food chain is the presence of asymptomatic carriers. The oncogenic and oncolytic activity of Salmonella and their lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) is important and research on this topic is needed. Even a single asymptomatic dose of the S. Enteritidis LPS (a dose that has not caused any symptoms of illness) in in vivo studies induces the dysregulation of selected cells and bioactive substances of the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. LPSs from different species, and even LPSs derived from different serotypes of one species, can define different biological activities. The activity of low doses of LPSs derived from three different Salmonella serotypes (S. Enteritidis, S. Typhimurium, and S. Minnesota) affects the neurochemistry of neurons differently in in vitro studies. Studies on lipopolysaccharides from different Salmonella serotypes do not consider the diversity of their activity. The presence of an LPS from S. Enteritidis in the body, even in amounts that do not induce any symptoms of illness, may lead to unknown long-term consequences associated with its action on the cells and biologically active substances of the human body. These conclusions should be important for both research strategies and the pharmaceutical industry &.