bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterizations of PEG-nZVI-Montmorillonite Nanocomposite for Adsorption and Photocatalytic Degradation of Tetracycline
Authors: Yari Ainaz Jamalzadeh , Sarvi Mehdi Nasiri , Ghaedfozooni Niloofar 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

For years the design and synthesis of a systems for absorbing and degrading the antibiotic that have the maximum absorption capability in low to high concentrations of pollutants with photodegradability has been raised as a challenge of many researches. In this study, a novel photocatalyst known as polyethylene glycol modified zero-valent iron nanoparticles-montmorillonite (PEG-nZVI-Mt) was synthesized for the adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline (TC) in ranges of concentrations. nZVI particles was formed well dispersed on montmorillonite carriers covered by polyethylene glycol polymer. The results demonstrated that the maximum adsorption capacity of TC on the EG-nZVI-Mt (153.8 mg/g) were considerably higher than that of on montmorillonite (78.4 mg/g) at the same condition (after 48 hr with 400 ppm TC). In addition, as the concentration of TC increased, the maximum quantity of adsorption also increased from approximately 20 mg/g to over 300 mg/g. Compared to other adsorbents, the PEG-nZVI-Mt showed the lowest desorption value at 10.1 mg/g, which is less than 6.5% of total TC absorbed. Moreover, the utilization of nZVI as a photocatalyst, results in an enhancement of photocatalytic degradation process of TC, leading to a degradation of over 95% of adsorbed TC in nZVI-Mt and PEG-nZVI-Mt samples after 180 min. The photocatalytic-degradation capacity of tetracycline (TC) on PEG-nZVI-Mt (96.7%) and nZVI-Mt (93.6%) was more than 3-fold beyond that on Mt, Na-Mt and PEG-Mt.
A free-form and structural-redundant timber reciprocal frame configuration: intelligent design, optimization and fabrication
Authors: Du Jianbin , Xu Peiqi , Zhao Pengyang , Xia Bo , Zhao Zhenyu 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Recognizing that reinforced concrete has a shorter lifespan than anticipated and contributes to environmental pollution, timber structures have regained attention for their renewability and eco-friendliness. However, the availability of large-scale timber suitable for modern structural engineering is exceedingly limited. Consequently, reciprocal frames (RF), which utilize small-scale components to achieve large spans, have opened up new architectural possibilities in timber construction. Nonetheless, the current applications of RF systems are hampered by the limited curve adaptability and insufficient structural redundancy. Drawing on traditional RF principles, this study proposes a new RF configuration method that enhances morphological adaptability and structural redundancy, integrating insights from architecture and structural engineering. Furthermore, we present a comprehensive workflow encompassing design, optimization, and fabrication, aimed at validating the mechanical and constructional efficacy of the new configuration, outlining quantitative design guidelines, and highlighting the multiple benefits of this innovation over existing RF solutions. We believe that this configuration concept will challenge current civil engineering practices by enabling timber constructions to be low-cost, large-span, rapidly deployable, morphologically adaptable, and structurally robust, and offer broader applications in scenarios requiring economical and time-efficient solutions such as constructions in underdeveloped regions, disaster relief efforts, and beyond.
Analgesic Effect of Ultrasound-Guided Caudal Block Versus Quadratus Lumborum Plane Block in Lumbar Spine Surgery in Adult Patients: A Double-Blinded Prospective Comparative Study
Authors: Mahmoud Atef Mohamed , Hassan Alyaa Abdel Sattar Mohamed , Mohamed Samar Ahmed Ramadan , seid Mohamed Awad Al 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Improving surgical results and patient rehabilitation requires effective postoperative pain management. This study compares analgesic efficacy and safety between quadratus lumborum plane (QLP) block and ultrasound-guided caudal block in adult patients following lumbar spine stabilization procedures.
Methods
At Fayoum University Hospital, a double-blind, randomized, controlled experiment was carried out. Three groups—a caudal block group, a QLP block group, or a Control group— were randomized to adult patients (18–60 years old) undergoing lumbar spine fixation as an elective procedure. The time to initially request a rescue analgesic, postoperative pain scores using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), total opioid consumption, intraoperative and postoperative hemodynamics, and the frequency of complications were used to measure the effectiveness of analgesics.
Results
111 patients were included, with 37 in each group. The QLP block group had a significantly longer time to first rescue analgesic dose compared to both the control (1 hour) and caudal block groups (15 hours vs. 1 hour and 5 hours, respectively; p < 0.001). Total opioid consumption was lowest in the QLP group (50 mg) compared to the control (150 mg) and caudal block groups (80 mg) (p < 0.001). Pain scores were lower in both the QLP and caudal block groups compared to the control group at most time points, with significant differences at 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, and 24 hours postoperatively (p < 0.001). Intraoperative fentanyl usage was significantly reduced in both the QLP and caudal block groups (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in the rates of nausea and vomiting among the groups.
Conclusions
Ultrasound-guided caudal block and QLP block both offer advantages over standard care in managing postoperative pain following lumbar spine fixation. The caudal block provided better analgesic efficacy and hemodynamic stability compared to the control, while the QLP block demonstrated the lowest opioid consumption. These findings suggest that regional anaesthesia techniques can be effective alternatives to standard care, with the QLP block being particularly effective for prolonged pain relief.
Trial registration:
This study was conducted at Fayoum University Hospital with approval from the ethics committee, the local institutional board, and approval number M696 from the ethical committee. This trial is randomized, double-blind, and controlled. Qualified patients signed a thorough informed consent form before recruitment and randomization.
Inactivation effect and mechanism of algae in simulated ballast water by DSA electrocatalysis
Authors: Zhang Jin , Xing Kexin , Cui Jinming , Du Jun 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Managing biological contaminants in ship ballast water is crucial for maritime nations to mitigate ecological and health risks. This study investigated the efficiency of algae inactivation in simulate ballast water using a dimensionally stable anode (DSA) electrocatalysis system. The findings showed that the inactivation rate varied depending on the algal species and could be optimized by adjusting hydraulic retention time (HTR), current density, and electrode surface area. Furthermore, the DSA electrocatalysis system provided a significantly sustained inactivation effect on algae in the holding time after electrolytic operation. The inactivation rates for Platymonas subcordiformis and Heterosigma akashiwo could reach up to 99.27% and 99.09%, respectively. Besides the direct oxidation and reduction of electric field, the reactive oxygen species, such as 𝐶𝑙𝑂− ∙𝑂𝐻, ∙𝑂2−, whichwere generated during the DSA electrocatalysis process, were primary factors responsible for algae inactivation. The DSA electrocatalysis led to lipid peroxidation in algal cell membranes, causing structural damage and metabolic failure.
Lithium modulates energy metabolism in the frontal cortex of rats treated with ketamine
Authors: Budni Josiane , Medeiros Eduarda B. , Silveira Gustavo B. , Lidio Adrielly V. , Zabot Gabriel C. , Resende Wilson R. , Dal-Pont Gustavo C. , Maciel Amanda L. , Freitas Karolina V. , Generoso Jaqueline S. , Gonçalves Cinara L. , Streck Emilio L. , Quevedo João , Valvassori Samira S. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Bipolar Disorder (BD) is a chronic and highly debilitating psychiatric illness formerly called manic depression. Mood-stabilizing agents such as lithium (Li) are the primary drugs used to treat BD. Assessing the effect of these mood stabilizers is essential to develop a novel animal model of mania. Thus, the present work aimed to evaluate the ketamine (Ket) effect on tricarboxylic acid enzymes and mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes activity in the frontal cortex of rats for consolidation of an animal model of mania induced by Ket. Wistar rats received Ket (25 mg/kg) or saline for 14 days. Between days 8 and 14, the rats were treated with Li (47.5 mg/kg, twice daily) or saline for 14 days. On the 15th day, animals received a single injection of Ket or saline. After 30 minutes of the last injection, the locomotor activity was assessed, and tricarboxylic acid and mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes enzyme activities were measured in the frontal cortex. The administration of Ket for 14 days in rats induced hyperlocomotion in the open field test, and Li was able to reverse this effect. Moreover, animals treated with Ket increased the tricarboxylic acid cycle and mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes enzyme activities in the frontal cortex. Lit was able to reverse these effects, but could not reduce the mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes IV activity. These findings support the idea that the administration of Ket might be a promising pharmacological animal model of mania, but there is a limitation in construct validity for energy metabolism.
A nomogram model for diagnosing bone metastasis in category T1 Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Li Ting , Gan Tian , Wang Jingting , Long Yun , Zhang Kemeng , Liao Meiyan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Rationale and Objectives:
Bone metastasis (BM) significantly affects the prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients. Currently, no effective clinical model exists for predicting early BM in category T1 LUAD. This study aims to develop a model for timely BM detection by analyzing relevant influencing factors.
Materials and Methods
This retrospective study analyzed data from 478 patients with category T1 LUAD from August 2017 to August 2023. Of these, 334 patients were assigned to a training cohort and 144 to an internal validation cohort. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified BM risk factors, leading to a nomogram model. Model performance was evaluated using area under the curve (AUC), calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA). An online calculator was also created to assess BM risk.
Results
Multivariate analysis revealed that alkaline phosphatase (ALP), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), nodule type, CT-reported N staging, and pleural effusion are independent BM risk factors. The nomogram showed strong accuracy, with AUC values of 0.929 in the training cohort and 0.954 in the validation cohort. Calibration analyses confirmed reliability, with DCA indicating high clinical benefit for both cohorts.
Conclusion
This nomogram effectively identifies high-risk patients for BM in category T1 LUAD, aiding personalized clinical decision-making.
Anticorrosion properties of ionic liquid functionalized graphene oxide epoxy composite coating on the carbon steel for CCUS environment
Authors: Dhongde Nikhil Rahul , Adhikari Sayani , Rajaraman Prasanna Venkatesh 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The adoption of CO2 capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology is increasingly prevalent, driven by the global initiative to conserve energy and reduce emissions. Nevertheless, CCUS has the potential to induce corrosion in equipment, particularly in high-pressure environments containing CO2. Therefore, anti-corrosion protection is necessary for the metal utilized for CO2 production and storage equipment. Herein, an ionic liquid (Triethylsulfonium bis-trifluoromethylsulfonyl-imide) was used to functionalize graphene oxide (prepared via improved Hummers method). FESEM, TEM, and XPS confirmed ionic liquids (IL) were successfully attached to the GO lattice. Afterwards, 0.5 wt% and 1 wt% IL-GO composites were separately incorporated into the epoxy and coated on the carbon steel substrate with a thickness of 50 ± 2 µm. The surface examinations demonstrated a consistent distribution of the ILGO composite in the epoxy matrix and achieved a uniform surface. Anti-corrosive property of 0.5 wt% and 1 wt% IL-GO/epoxy coatings was evaluated using electrochemical tests such as potentiodynamic polarisation, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) after immersion in the CO2 (1.5 MPa) and 3.5 wt% NaCl system. After 48 h of immersion in a corrosion environment (CO2-NaCl), the protection efficiency of 0.5 wt% and 1 wt% IL-GO/epoxy coatings are 86.41 ± 0.55 and 92.59 ± 0.83%, respectively. The findings of this study demonstrated that the ILGO composite reinforced epoxy coating exhibited exceptional corrosion resistance when exposed to CO2.
Automated HER2 scoring in breast cancer HE-stained images using hybrid deep learning ensemble and probabilistic optimization
Authors: P Pateel G , Senapati Kedarnath , Pandey Abhishek Kumar 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is a critical gene that serves as a receptor to transmit signals for aggressive cell division in cancer cells. Hence, testing of HER2 is important in treatment to indicate candidates for HER2-targeted therapy. However, in the current gold standard, i.e., the immunohistochemistry (IHC) test, the scoring is based on the pathologist’s analysis, which has an inter- and intra-observer variation chance due to variability in staining assessment. Automating HER2 scoring using hematoxyline eosin (HE) stained images can overcome these limitations, providing more accurate and consistent results, thereby reducing healthcare costs and enhancing patient outcomes. In this work, we have presented an automated framework for classifying HER2 scores of breast cancer using HE-stained images. The developed framework uses three fine-tuned deep learning models, namely GoogLeNet, ResNet-50, and Vision Transformer (ViT). It applies the proposed hybrid weighted individual voting ensemble (WIVE) to combine the confidence scores of all the constituent models. This approach comprises two independent techniques: the Model-Specific Weights Optimization (MSWO), customizing weights for individual models, and the Class-Specific Weights Optimization (CSWO), fine-tunes weights for specific classes using Probabilistic model-building genetic algorithms (PMBGAs). The proposed framework surpasses the existing methods in the literature. The CSWO approach achieves an accuracy of 99.42% and a precision of 99.54%, while the MSWO approach attains an accuracy of 99.07% and a precision of 99.21%. This study outlines an economically feasible and efficient prognostic model with the potential to provide clinically significant inputs. The use of this algorithm might offer a possibility for the replacement of IHC testing, minimizing the variability in HER2 scoring, as well as simplifying the diagnostic process.
Identification of regulatory network and potential drugs in spinal cord injury based on comprehensive bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Yue Xi , Chen Xunling , Zang Yang , Wu Jinliang , Chen Guanhao , Tan Hongyu , Yang Kerong 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a significant neurological disorder that results in permanent impairment of motor and sensory functions below the injury site. Oligodendrocytes and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (ODC/OPC) play a crucial role in neural morphological repair and functional recovery following SCI. We performed single-cell sequencing (scRNA-seq) on 59,558 cells from 39 mouse samples, combined with microarray data from 164 SCI samples and 3 uninjured samples. We further validated our findings using a large clinical cohort consisting of 38 SCI patients, 10 healthy controls, and 10 trauma controls, assessed with the American Spinal Cord Injury Association (ASIA) scale. We proposed a novel SCI classification model based on the expression of prognostic differentially expressed ODC/OPC differentiation-related genes (PDEODGs). This model includes three types: Low ODC/OPC Score Classification (LOSC), Median ODC/OPC Score Classification (MOSC), and High ODC/OPC Score Classification (HOSC). Considering the relationship between these subtypes and prognosis, we speculated that enhancing ODC/OPC differentiation and inhibiting inflammatory infiltration may improve outcomes. Additionally, we identified potential treatments for SCI that target key genes within these subtypes, offering promising implications for therapy.
Unexpected species diversity in the understanding of selenium- containing soil invertebrates
Authors: Mao Bin , Fang XiangLiang , Lei HongLing , Xiao YunLi , Fu Yue 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Yutangba, situated in Enshi City, Hubei Province, is globally noted its high selenium (Se) content. Soil invertebrates are essential to the functionality and services of terrestrial ecosystems, yet their community composition in this region remains under-explored. This study utilized environmental DNA metabarcoding to investigate the interrelations among environmental factors, soil invertebrate diversity, and community characteristics concerning soil Se content, pH, and moisture content in the region. Environmental factors such as Se concentration, water content, and pH were strongly associated with the alpha and beta diversity of soil invertebrates in Se-rich areas, affecting their distribution and abundance. Among these, Se notably emerges as the primary regulatory factor influencing soil invertebrate diversity. The acidic soil pH, along with moisture, plays a fine-tuning role in regulating species diversity by directly or indirectly influencing the availability and bioavailability of Se, impacting the species richness and community composition. Unexpectedly, certain species, such as the Formicidae (ants, e.g., Odontomachus troglodytes), the Noctuidae (e.g., Diarsia rosaria), and the annelid Haplotaxida Perionyx excavates, exhibit a strong positive association with Se, indicating a high level of Se tolerance among the native species. This novel perspective reveals the complex role of Se in soil ecosystems, emphasizing the necessity of understanding its ecological functions and potential implications for ecosystem health and stability.
Report of RILEM TC 281-CCC: Phase assemblage alterations and carbonation potential of mortar with blended cements induced by long duration carbonation exposure
Authors: Etcheverry Juan Manuel , Alderete Natalia , Sakoparnig Marlene , Vanoutrive Hanne , Grengg Cyrill , Gruyaert Elke , De Belie Nele 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Replacement of Portland cement is a practical strategy to reduce concrete manufacturing CO2 emissions. However, this approach typically results in a diminished portlandite content in the hardened mix, elevating the risk of carbonation-induced corrosion in steel-reinforced concrete. Carbonation is frequently studied by exposing the samples to elevated CO2 levels ( 1% and 20%). However, the carbonation process and its by-products might differ markedly under natural conditions. In the context of RILEM TC 281-CCC ‘Carbonation of Concrete with SCMs’, a comprehensive three-year natural carbonation study on mortar samples was carried out across three laboratories. Samples were made with commercially available cement (CEM I, CEM II/B-V, CEM III/B). This study examined two natural carbonation scenarios: one in a regulated climate chamber and the other outdoors, protected from direct rainfall. The progression of carbonation was determined using a phenolphthalein indicator and compared to optical pH measurements. The phase composition was analysed by X-ray diffraction, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Additionally, the CO2 capture in three-year-old naturally carbonated samples was assessed and contrasted against the reactive CaO content. The thermogravimetric analysis data revealed a non-linear relationship between the portlandite content in the uncarbonated zone and the carbonation rate. A reduced clinker content leads to lower pH values in carbonated and uncarbonated zones. Notably, samples containing CEM II displayed the largest formation of CaCO3 which, divided by the theoretical maximum amount of CaCO3 from reactive CaO, signifies the highest degree of carbonation among the cement types studied.
Psychometric Properties of the Arabic Translation of the Psy-Flex Scale in Adolescents
Authors: Topalian Michael , Mir Rita El , Malaeb Diana , Sakr Fouad , Dabbous Mariam , Hallit Souheil , Fekih-Romdhane Feten , Obeid Sahar 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Psychologic flexibility, integral to mental wellbeing, has gained popularity for its role in fostering adaptive coping mechanisms. However, research on this subject in the Middle Eastern population, particularly among adolescents, is limited. This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of an Arabic translation of the Psy-Flex Scale in a sample of Lebanese adolescents.
Methods
Using a cross-sectional design, 793 adolescents form all districts/governorates participated in the study conducted in November 2023 using a snowball sampling technique. The Psy-Flex Scale and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale were used in this study.
Results
Confirmatory Factor Analysis results indicated that the fit of the one-factor model of the Psy-Flex Scale was modest: RMSEA = .109 (90% CI .090, .130), SRMR = .039, CFI = .948, TLI = .914. The modification index between items 3 and 6 was high; after adding a correlation between those residuals, the fit indices improved: RMSEA = .089 (90% CI .069, .112), SRMR = .033, CFI = .969, TLI = .942. The composite reliability of scores was adequate in the total sample (ω = .84 / α = .84). We were able to show the invariance across sex at the configural, metric, and scalar levels. No significant difference was seen between males and females in terms of psychological flexibility scores (17.91 ± 4.90 vs 17.40 ± 4.34; t(791) = 1.50; p = .134). Concurrent validity was shown since higher psychological flexibility was significantly associated with lower depression (r = − .08; p = .024) and lower anxiety (r = − .10; p = .004), but not stress (r = .06; p = .090).
Conclusion
The validation of the Arabic Psy-Flex Scale represents a significant contribution to Arab mental health research, providing a culturally sensitive tool to assess psychological flexibility in adolescents and explore its associations with psychological distress.