bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development and Characterization of Hybrid Composites for Synthetic Cartilage in Joint Prostheses Tribological and Antibacterial Analysis
Authors: Salama Ahmed , Osman T. A. , Rashad R. M. , Kamel Bahaa M. , Salem M. M. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The aim of this study was to create and analyze hybrid composites consisting of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) combined with hydroxyapatite (HAP) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) in order to develop synthetic cartilages for use in complete joint prostheses. The three different composites were mixed using a solvent dispersing technique, followed by a hot press technique, and then tested for tribological and antibacterial properties. In order to assess the impact of the additives and the quality of dispersion in the composites, we employed transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to analyze and characterize the composites. Titanium dioxide weight percentages were varied (1, 3, 5, and 10%), while HAP weight percentages were held constant at 20%. In the UHMWPE matrix, hydroxyapatite was used as a bone osteoinduction agent and titanium dioxide as an anti-wear additive. The developed composite was tested against Ti6Al4V alloy in a wear test using dry sliding and Hank's solution as a simulated bodily fluid (SBF). When sliding, SBF lubricant adhered to the composite surface, and UHMWPE with a 3 wt.% TiO2 filler had better wear performance than the other composites. This occurs as a result of the formation of a dense lubricant film, which provides the composite with higher wear resistance than dry sliding. We utilized the Agar Well Diffusion method to assess the antibacterial properties of the composites, and the findings indicated that the composites exhibited antibacterial activity.
On the integration of large scale time seriesdistance matrices into deep visual analytic tools
Authors: Santamaria-Valenzuela Inmaculada , Rodriguez-Fernandez Victor , Camacho David 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Time series are essential for modelling a lot of activities such as software behavior, heart beats per time, business processes. The analysis of the series data can prevent errors, boost profits, and improve the understanding of behaviors. Among the many techniques available, we can find Deep Learning techniques and Data Mining techniques. In Data Mining, distance matrices between subsequences (similarity matrices, recurrence plots) have already shown their potential on fast large-scale time series behavior analysis. In the Deep Learning, there exists different tools for analyzing the models embedding space for getting insights of the data behavior. DeepVATS is a tool for large time series analysis that allows the visual interaction within the embedding space (latent space) of Deep Learning models and the original data. The training and analysis of the model may result on a large use of computational resources, resulting in a lack of interactivity. To solve this issue, we integrate distance matrices plots within the tool. The incorporation of these plots with the associated downsampling techniques makes DeepVATS a more efficient and user-friendly tool for a first quick analysis of the data, achieving runtimes reductions of up to \(10^4\) seconds, allowing fast preliminary analysis of datasets of up to 7M elements. Also, this incorporation allows us to detect trends, extending its capabilities. The new functionality is tested in three use cases: the M-Toy synthetic dataset for anomaly detection, the S3 synthetic dataset for trend detection and the real-world dataset Pulsus Paradoxus for anomaly checking.
Impact of canopy vertical height on leaf functional traits in a Cunninghamia lanceolata common garden experiment of Dagangshan
Authors: Xu Tingyu , Niu Xiang , Wang Bing , Wang Yihui 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background Plant functional traits represent resource acquisition strategies, and, consequently, reflect ecosystem function. As a critical focus in functional trait research, the study of intraspecific variation and vertical gradients in canopies can better reveal plant adaptation mechanisms to environmental conditions. In this study, we examined five provenances of Cunninghamia lanceolata in the common garden of Dagangshan, Jiangxi, measured and analyzed nine functional trait indicators: the leaf dry matter content, relative chlorophyll content, specific leaf area, leaf tissue density, water use efficiency, leaf carbon content, leaf nitrogen content, carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, and equivalent water thickness.Results The results revealed that canopy height has a minor effect on the variation in leaf functional traits, with most of the variation attributed to geographic provenances. Notably, 50% of the leaf functional traits presented significant correlations, which were associated mainly with photosynthetic capacity-related traits. The differences in leaf functional traits between the average canopy values and the middle part of the canopy are minimal, and the correlations among traits are consistent with each other.Conclusion The influence of canopy height on leaf functional traits in subtropical Cunninghamia lanceolata artificial forests is limited, making it feasible to analyze forest ecosystem functions by collecting leaf samples from the middle canopy. This study provides scientific evidence for research on the functional dynamics of Cunninghamia lanceolata artificial forest ecosystems and the selection of superior provenances.
Graphene Oxide as a Highly Efficient and Reusable Adsorbent for Simultaneous Removal of Parabens: Optimization by Response Surface Methodology, Adsorption Isotherms and Reusability Studies
Authors: Er Elif Öztürk 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Paraben contamination in aquatic systems, primarily from personal care products, pharmaceuticals and industrial effluents, is an increasing environmental concern due to their widespread use as preservatives. The removal of parabens through conventional wastewater treatment processes are difficult and requires the development of innovative water treatment methods. In this study, graphene oxide nanoflakes were produced by Improved Hummers’ method and their adsorption characteristics were investigated for simultaneous removal of five parabens. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman Spectroscopy, X-Ray Powder Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscope and Transmission Electron Microscope were used and the nanoflakes were successfully characterized. The chromatographic method was developed for the simultaneous quantification of parabens. The process optimization overall removal efficiency of parabens was achieved using Response Surface Methodology by a multiple response function. Nonlinear regression was used to fit the equilibrium data and the Freundlich model described the adsorption isotherm data accurately with R2 values between 0.9807 and 0.9957. Factors such as mass of adsorbent, pH of solution and their interaction have the most significant impact on the adsorption process, while contact time parameter shows low significance on the response. The adsorption behaviors of parabens were closely correlated with their hydrophobicity. Along with hydrophobic interactions, other mechanisms such as π–π stacking, hydrogen bonding and electrostatic forces, likely played significant role in the strong adsorption of parabens onto the GO surface. The reusability experiment showed that graphene oxide nanoflakes had a high potential present as a reusable adsorbent for the removal of parabens.
Microplastics in Freshwater Environment: A Case Study of River Gomti, Lucknow, India
Authors: Mishra Amit K. , Singh Jaswant , Mishra Pratyush P. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs), present worldwide from the poles to the oceans, have become a key environmental concern, disturbed different ecosystems across the globe. Freshwater are major channels that transport microplastics from land to the oceans. Present study shows, occurrence of MPs in the Gomti River, Lucknow. Water and sediment were sampled from Gomti river and extraction process was carried out by standard methods. Microplastics were identified and quantified by using a stereo zoom microscope and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. A total of 2489 particles were identified from analysed samples. Microplastic abundances in water samples ranged from 4.20 to 8.38 items L− 1, whereas in the sediment, ranged from 276 to 672 items kg− 1 d.w. The analysis showed that fibers dominated in both environmental matrices, accounting for 50.49% in water and 60.42% in sediment, respectively. Dominance of polyethylene and polypropylene was confirmed by FTIR analysis. This is the first study of the Gomti river at Lucknow. The findings will provide baseline data for future monitoring and assessment.
Comparison of the Effects of Lidocaine and Articaine Used for Buccal Infiltration and Supplemental Palatinal Infiltration Anesthesia in Maxillary Molars with Irreversible Pulpitis: A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Kolay Duygu , Kırıcı Damla 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
The aim of this study was to compare the effects of articaine or lidocaine in buccal infiltration or palatal infiltration in addition to buccal infiltration in maxillary first or second molars with irreversible pulpitis.
Material-Methods:
Among the patients who applied to Akdeniz University Faculty of Dentistry Endodontic Clinic for the treatment of maxillary molars with irreversible pulpitis, 80 volunteers who met the criteria were included in the study. Eighty patients were divided into 4 groups (n = 20). 1. group buccal infiltration with 4% articaine containing 1:100,000 epinephrine, 2. group buccal infiltration with 2% lidocaine containing 80,000 epinephrine, 3. group buccal and palatinal infiltration with 4% articaine containing 1:100,000 epinephrine, 4.group buccal and palatinal infiltration with 2% lidocaine containing 80.000 epinephrine. Pain during the endodontic procedure was determined and recorded according to the Heft Parker visual analog scale.
Results
Within the results of the study, no statistically significant difference was found between 4% articaine containing 1:100,000 epinephrine and 2% lidocaine containing 1:80,000 epinephrine in terms of anesthesia effectiveness (p > 0.05). When palatal infiltration anesthesia was applied in addition to buccal infiltration, the pain during entry into the palatal canals was significantly reduced compared to buccal infiltration anesthesia alone (p < 0.05)
Conclusions
According to the results of this study, it may be recommended to use palatal infiltration anesthesia in addition to buccal infiltration anesthesia, independent of the anesthetic solution, for an effective pulpal anesthesia in maxillary molars with irreversible pulpitis.
Exploring the Antitumor Potential of Huaier Granules Against Gallbladder Cancer based on high-resolution mass spectrometry and invitro, invivo studies
Authors: Ma Yuqiao , Sun Yi , Wang Jiandong , Chai Chen , Yu XiaoFeng 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Backgroung
: Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is marked by its aggressive metastasis and a markedly poor prognosis, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes. Traditional Chinese medicine, such as Huaier granules, has been demonstrated to exert anti-tumor effects in various cancers. However, research on their use in GBC treatment remains scarce.
Objective
This study assesses the anti-tumor effects of Huaier granules, a traditional Chinese medicine formulation on GBC.
Methods
The serum metabolites in Huaier granule group received a dose of 3mg/g/d via gavage for 5 days were analyzed using high-resolution mass spectrometry. Pathway analysis and disease enrichment analysis of metabolites in blood were performed using the PaMP-DB database and HMDB, respectively. This study investigated the effects of Huaier granules on GBC-SD cell proliferation and apoptosis. Additionally, a GBC murine model was employed to compare the in vivo efficacy of the granules with Cantharidin, supported by histopathological evaluations.
Results
A total of 98 differential metabolites were identified and imported into metaboanalyst for enrichment analysis. The main enriched pathway identified was SLC transporter disorders in the PaMP-DB database. Disorders involving transmembrane transporters, SLC-mediated transmembrane transport, inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs), and amino acid transport across the plasma membrane were identified through statistical analysis. Additionally, the enrichment of choline, L-Tyrosine, L-Tryptophan, salicylic acid, L-Valine, and other substances was observed in the transport of bile salts and organic acids, metal ions, and amine compounds. The significantly enriched pathways identified in the HMDB dataset include Schizophrenia, Colorectal cancer and Alzheimer's disease, as well as Epilepsy, Early preeclampsia, Ovarian cancer, and Pancreatic cancer. Huaier granules induced G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptosis in vitro, marked by increased p53 expression and decreased levels of CCNB1 and CDK1. In vivo analysis revealed a significant reduction in tumor volume and weight, alongside decreased inflammation and fibrosis, compared to Cantharidin and control treatment.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that Huaier granules could serve as an effective integrative approach in GBC treatment by modulating cell cycle and apoptosis pathways, suggesting a promising integrative treatment option. The granules’ potential as an adjunctive or alternative therapy highlights the need for further mechanistic and clinical studies.
The departure dilemma: Directors’ last working year and firm performance—Do gender differences matter?
Authors: Ali Farman , Aljughaiman Abdullah A. , Almulhem Abdulltif A. , Ali Imran 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Keeping in mind the importance of pre quitting behaviors, this study attempts to investigate the impact of directors' last working year on firm performance. Analyzing a sample of Chinese listed firms over the period of 2003 to 2018, we find that corporate boards with more directors having last working year is negatively related to firm performance. We argue that this negative relationship may be due to the negative behavior and less commitment that people show when they plan to quit their jobs. Furthermore, we discover that gender differences play a significant role. We show that in gender diverse boards, the negative relationship between directors’ last working year and firm performance is less severe. Our findings are robust since we address the endogeneity issue and employe several robustness checks. Our findings highlight new insights and provide an opportunity to policymakers and governance committees to constitute a more balanced board by minimizing the ratio of last-year directors, and including more female directors.
Effect of Hydromorphone Combined with Ropivacaine Caudal Block on Immune Function After Hypospadias Surgery in Children
Authors: Cai Yuzhu , Yang Mingwen , Liu Xinghui , Zhang Lingli , Wang Jun , Sun Yingying 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of caudal block anesthesia with hydromorphone-ropivacaine compared to ropivacaine alone on postoperative immune function and pain management in children undergoing hypospadias surgery.
Methods
A total of 100 pediatric patients were randomly assigned to two groups: the Hydromorphone-Ropivacaine (HR) group and the Ropivacaine (R) group, with 50 patients in each group. Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared. T lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+/CD8 + ratios) were measured at multiple time points: pre-anesthesia (T0), at the end of surgery (T1), 24 hours (T2), 48 hours (T3), and 72 hours (T4) postoperatively. Pain levels were assessed using the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Scale (CHEOPS) at various time points.Postoperative sedation levels were evaluated using the Ramsay sedation scale at the same time points.
Results
There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the groups. The HR group exhibited significant reductions in CD3+, CD4+, and CD4+/CD8 + ratios at T1, T2, and T3 compared to T0, with higher values compared to the R group at T1, T2, T3, and T4 (P < 0.05). The HR group demonstrated lower CHEOPS scores at 6, 12, and 18 hours postoperatively, indicating superior pain relief (P < 0.001). Additionally, a higher percentage of patients in the HR group did not require rescue analgesia within the first 24 hours. Sedation levels assessed using the Ramsay scale showed significant differences at 6 hour postoperatively.
Conclusion
Caudal block anesthesia with hydromorphone-ropivacaine offers enhanced postoperative pain relief and a lesser impact on immune function compared to ropivacaine alone in children undergoing hypospadias surgery. Further studies are warranted to explore the long-term effects on immune function.
CATATOnia treatment with transcranial direct current ElectroStimulation: protocol of a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled bicentric superiority study (CATATOES)
Authors: Moyal Mylène , Attali David , Berre Alice Le , Bouaziz Noomane , Iftimovici Anton , Ramon François , Henensal Adèle , Dahan Louise , Canivet Laetitia , Dadi Ghita , Debacker Clément , Lui Maliesse , Charron Sylvain , Alouit Anaëlle , Sylla Khaoussou , Mancusi Rossella Letizia , Gallarda Thierry , Cachia Arnaud , Gavaret Martine , Chaumette Boris , Oppenheim Catherine , Januel Dominique , Plaze Marion , Haroche Alexandre 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Catatonia is a severe psychomotor syndrome with high morbidity and mortality. Lorazepam and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) are the main recommended treatments. Lorazepam-resistant catatonia accounts for about 30% of cases, particularly in neurodevelopmental disorders. ECT is crucial in these situations but faces challenges of tolerability and accessibility. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a promising intervention, is emerging as a non-invasive, cost-effective neurostimulation tool and has demonstrated efficacy and safety in case reports and small series of catatonic patients (N < 10). The CATATOES study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of tDCS using a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, bicentric superiority trial involving 70 patients with catatonia. Secondary objectives aim to highlight the mechanism of action of tDCS and to explore the pathophysiology of catatonia.
Methods
Seventy participants with lorazepam-resistant catatonia will undergo 20 sessions of active or sham tDCS, administered twice daily at two mA for 20 minutes, with anodal stimulation in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and cathodal stimulation in the left temporoparietal junction (TPJ). In addition to daily clinical assessment, patients will undergo (i) structural, functional and diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), (ii) 64-channel resting state electroencephalogram (EEG), and (iii) blood test with inflammatory, neurogenesis and genetic markers, before, during and after the treatment course.
Discussion
Catatonia is in critical need of therapeutic improvement. We anticipate that this study will pave the way for the routine use of tDCS in the treatment of lorazepam-resistant catatonia, ultimately contributing to a reduction of morbidity, mortality, and associated costs of catatonia.
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT06139432; Registration date 11/24/2023
Storylines for month-long heatwaves and associated heat-related mortality impacts over Western Europe
Authors: Lüthi Samuel , Huber Veronika , Pascal Mathilde , Beyerle Urs , Pyrina Maria , Domeisen Daniela , Vicedo-Cabrera Ana M. , Fischer Erich 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Countless heat records were broken in recent years, leading to thousands of heat-related deaths. This raises the question of how much worse heat-related mortality could become in coming years if a potential worst-case heatwave lasts for several weeks or reaches unprecedented intensity. Here, we develop impact storylines for worst-case heatwaves and associated heat-related mortality in France, Germany, and Switzerland. We compare several physical climate storyline approaches to quantify plausible extreme heatwaves and combine these with empirical heat-mortality relationships. We find physically consistent week-long heatwaves possible in the climate of 2020 that exceed the observed 7-day record temperatures by more than 5°C and associated mortality impacts exceeding the observed maximum by 30-90%. Even more severe consequences would arise from possible five-week heat periods of unprecedented intensity, which would lead to more than a doubling of impacts. Developing these impact storylines can inform the stress-testing of socio-economic systems for preparing appropriate emergency response capacities.
The Effect of Maternal Position on Cerebral Oxygenation in Premature Infants During Kangaroo Care: a Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Stapleton Iyshwarya , Murphy Sarah , Vaughan Susan , Walsh Brian , Natchimuthu Kanna , Livingstone Vicki , Dempsey Eugene 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective: To assess whether there was an optimal maternal position (30° versus 60° incline) for kangaroo mother care.
Design: Single centre cross-over randomised controlled trial. Mothers were randomly assigned to either a 30° or 60° angle. Primary outcome was the median cerebral oxygenation values. Secondary outcomes included median peripheral saturations and median heart rates.
Results: Twenty participants were included in the final analysis: median gestational age at birth was 28+1 weeks and median birth weight was 985g. There were no statistically significant differences between the median NIRS values at 30° (median rSO2 = 67.5, IQR = 58.3 – 73.8) and 60° (median rSO2 = 68, IQR = 60.5 – 76), p = 0.8. There were no statistically significant difference in any secondary outcome.
Conclusions: Maternal positioning at a 30° or 60° incline did not impact on cerebral oxygenation values in very preterm infants. Either position was associated with clinical stability
Trial Registration Number: ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT05686252
Qualitative Study on Emotion Regulation Processes and Expressive Language Skills in Kindergarten
Authors: Oğuz Sena Nur , Pınar Yunus 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This single-participant case study focused on a typically
developing five-year-old girl, Aylin (name anonymized). Aylin was
observed for nine months at her kindergarten since her enrollment
week to investigate her social interaction experiences, emotion
regulation processes, and expressive language skills. Tavistock
Child Observation Model, videography, and semi-structured
interviews were employed as research tools, while a demographic
form and HAVAS 5 (Hamburg Screening for Five-Year Old Children)
were used for data collection. The findings indicate that Aylin
experienced various types of anxiety and stress, especially during
the adjustment week and the following months. Aylin was seen trying
to cope with the difficulties caused by the separation from her
parents; she made intense efforts to adapt to the new environment.
She exhibited an intense desire to interact with her peers and
experience feelings of togetherness and belonging and developed
varied strategies to achieve her goals. Findings revealed that
Aylin played in harmony with her peers and displayed more
extroversion when she experienced a sense of togetherness,
connectedness, and belonging. The semi-structured interviews with
parents revealed that Aylin was subjected to quarantine for a year
as part of the COVID-19 preventive measures from the age of two and
a half. She had to spend her daily life at home, being deprived of
peer interactions and physical activities. The father's interaction
with the child was limited because of his busy work life; the
mother also reported difficulty allocating quality time to the
child.