bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Early depassivation of reinforcing steel due to accelerated-carbonation in limestone calcined clay cement concretes
Authors: Mayorga Luis Felipe Salazar , Lizarazo-Marriaga Juan , Arango-L Juan F 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The effect of carbonation on corrosion of reinforced steel was investigated in five limestone and calcined clay (LC3) concrete mixtures designed adjusting their cement SO3 content. Accelerated carbonation tests were carried out according to BS EN 12390-12, while simultaneously the rebar corrosion activity was also monitored using electrochemical tests such as the linear polarization resistance (LPR). This paper reports on the methodology proposed to evaluate the reinforcement's response to corrosion while concrete carbonates. Results showed that LC3 concretes had a significant increase in the carbonation rate, and showed from a Carbonation Index (CI), defined as the carbonation depth to the concrete cover ratio, that there is an early depassivation of the rebar. It means that steel corrosion processes begin before the carbonation front reaches the rebar, demonstrating that concrete using very high limestone and calcined clay replacement levels are much more vulnerable to accelerated carbonation.
Progranulin preserves mitochondrial health and turnover in neurons under hyperglycemic stress in a p97-dependent manner
Authors: Dedert Cass , Xu Fenglian 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Type II diabetes (T2D) affects over half a billion adults and is a risk factor for neurodegenerative disease. A major component of T2D, hyperglycemia (chronic excess blood glucose) causes mitochondrial damage while impairing their clearance via mitophagy, leading to neuronal cell death. Conversely, restoring mitochondrial turnover to maintain overall mitochondrial health is a means of neuroprotection. We investigated whether progranulin (PGRN), an endogenously-expressed neurotrophic factor that has been shown to be protective against frontotemporal dementia, also protects against hyperglycemic stress at the mitochondrial level. In vitro studies of primary cortex showed that high glucose led to mitochondrial dysfunction that was prevented with PGRN co-treatment. Additionally, we found that the expression and localization of key mitophagy proteins PTEN-INduced Kinase 1 (PINK1), Parkin, and p97 are affected by PGRN. Conversely, pharmacological inhibition of p97 prevented many of PGRN’s protective benefits under high-glucose conditions. These data showcase a novel mechanism of PGRN’s protection and a newly-characterized connection between PGRN and p97. While further studies in vivo are necessary to validate these findings, they provide unique insights into the protective mechanisms of PGRN against diabetic neurodegeneration.
Effects of prebiotics on microbial diversity and abundance in young children with acute malnutrition: Study protocol for a multi-centered, double-blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Saleem Javeria , Zakar Rubeena , Iqbal Sanaullah , Arshad Muhammad , Shahzad Ruhma , Batool Munazza , Nawaz Muhammad , Butt Muhammad Salman , Fischer Florian 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits of prebiotics may present an affordable and cost-effective strategy in not only the prevention but also treatment of malnutrition. Therefore, the present trial has been designed with the aim to evaluate the role of prebiotics on the gut microbiome of severe acute malnourished (SAM) children.
Methods: The study is designed as a prospective, double-blinded, triple-armed, multi-centered randomized controlled trial, with 6–59 months old uncomplicated SAM children recruited to experimental group receiving RUTF+prebiotics and active comparator group receiving RUTF+starch. Healthy children with matching age and gender will be recruited to placebo comparator group and will receive starch as a placebo. A total of 53 participants will be recruited to each arm with 1:1:1 allocation ratio following a pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria for eight weeks. The results of the gut microbiome diversity will serve as the primary outcome, while weight-for-height/length z-score, mid-upper-arm circumference, neurodevelopment assessment and body mass accumulation will serve as the secondary outcome. Data collection and evaluations will be conducted at baseline and at the end of the trial (week 8) while the safety monitoring will be conducted at every second week. For analysis, the principles of intention-to-treat will be followed.
Conclusions: Conclusively, the results of the present trial would provide useful insights and high-quality data for the treatment and management of SAM children by evaluating the effect of RUTF+prebiotic on the gut microbiome diversity of children, leading to medical evidence for designing the large-scale studies.
Trial registration: The present trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with identifier No: NCT06155474 and registration date 04/12/23.
Fabrication and in vivo testing of a sub-mm duckbill valve for hydrocephalus treatment
Authors: Christen Jennifer Blain , Jung Yuna , Gulick Daniel 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Hydrocephalus is characterized by the accumulation of excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the cranium due to an imbalance between production and absorption of CSF. The standard treatment involves the implantation of a shunt to divert excess CSF into the peritoneal cavity, but these shunts exhibit high failure rates over time. In pursuit of improved reliability and performance, this study proposes a miniaturized valve designed to mimic the natural one-way valve function of the arachnoid granulations and thereby replace the shunts.
Methods: A benchtop testing setup was employed to characterize the behavior of the fabricated valve. Additionally, an animal study was conducted to assess the valve’s in vivo performance. This involved the injection of saline into the lateral ventricle to elevate intracranial pressure (ICP), followed by the drainage of the saline through the valve inserted into the cisterna magna (CM) to reduce pressure.
Results: Our prototype features a silicone duckbill valve design combined with a silicone tube as an inlet. Through benchtop testing, the valve exhibited unidirectional flow with negligible reverse leakage, revealing that critical parameters such as the width of the fluid channel (W) and bill length (L) could be controlled to optimize valve performance. Notably, the valve configuration with W = 0.8 mm and L <0.5 mm achieved the lowest cracking pressure (2.22 ± 0.07 mmHg) and outflow resistance (22.00 ± 0.70 mmHg/mL/min) within the low cracking pressure range of conventional shunts. Our observations of the in vivo test demonstrated that when untreated states, pressure differences from baseline to peak exceeded 20 mmHg due to the absence of drainage, resulting in sustained pressure elevation. Conversely, upon treating states by removing the clamp, pressure differences from baseline to peak remained below 5 mmHg, indicating effective drainage of injected saline through the valve.
Conclusion: These promising results highlight the potential of the miniaturized duckbill valve as an alternative for ICP management in hydrocephalus, offering improved control and reliability compared to conventional shunting systems. Further research is required to evaluate the valve’s performance as a chronic implant.
A long-term (2012-2021) measurement and modelling evapotranspiration of the Biebrza Valley wetland area (Poland)
Authors: Siedlecki Mariusz , Fortuniak Krzysztof , Pawlak Włodzimierz 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The primary goal of the study is to characterize the evapotranspiration of wetlands against the background of changing meteorological conditions. The relatively long measurement period makes it possible to show the dynamics of this process both under conditions of high precipitation and periods of drought. Moreover, the analyzed period also includes measurements of evapotranspiration under conditions of rapid recovery of wetland vegetation after fire. The accomplishment of the research objectives was based on measurements using the eddy covariance method in the Biebrza National Park in northeastern Poland. The measurement period covers the years 2013–2021. Latent heat flux Qe is characterized by a distinct annual cycle with the highest values in the summer season. Average daily values of Qe from July to August were in the range of 6–10 MJ m− 2 d− 1, which is on average 60–70% of the value of the radiation balance. The relatively long measurement period showed that the evapotranspiration of the wetland surface is characterized by very high stability. The achieved values of daily as well as monthly totals during periods of drought were very close to those recorded in seasons with high precipitation. The high rate of evapotranspiration led to a decrease in groundwater levels and a significant deterioration in the water resources of the wetland environment.
A new synthesis of (Z)-arylbenzoyl(phenethyl)carbamothioic-N-phenylbenzohydrazonic thioanhydride derivatives by reaction of secondary amides, carbon disulfide and hydrazonoyl chlorides
Authors: Mansournejad Azam , Khalili Gholamhossein 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

A new synthesis of (Z)-arylbenzoyl(phenethyl)carbamothioic-N-phenylbenzohydrazonic thioanhydride derivatives is described using amides, substituted hydrazonoyl chlorides in presence carbon disulfide and MeONa as the base in DMF at room temperature. The approach requires no complex equipment and utilizes inexpensive, and easy to handle hydrazonoyl chloride as third component of starting materials to afford of this novel class of compounds.
Comprehensive Assessment of Ecological Environment Based on Market Fuzzy Optimization Model
Authors: He Hailang , Wang Weiwei , Wang Zhengxing , Li Shu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The proliferation of developmental projects exerts a profound impact on biodiversity and environmental degradation. In pursuit of assessing ecosystem services, this study introduces an innovative combination optimization methodology that melds direct market assessment with mathematical fuzzy analysis. This approach is designed to elucidate the authentic economic repercussions of land utilization endeavors, facilitating a nuanced exploration of the cost-benefit dynamics across projects of varying magnitudes. This research posits that when ecosystem services are factored into the equation, environmental costs augment the conventional cost structures.Employing a combination optimization model, the research delineates the distinct characteristics of assorted environmental costs. The model integrates direct market valuation, conceptualizing environmental remediation expenses as financial detriments ensuing from environmental contamination. Concurrently, it employs mathematical fuzzy algorithms for the appraisal of potential environmental costs. Subsequently, a synthesis of comprehensive evaluation scores across different project phases is conducted.This investigation selected a residential community and a thermal power station to represent small-scale community initiatives and large-scale national projects, respectively. Cost-benefit analyses were executed based on the ratios derived from the combination optimization model. The MATLAB software was utilized to assess the ecological milieu at various temporal junctures. Findings indicate that the cost-benefit ratio for the small-scale community project stood at 1.051, whereas the large-scale national project yielded a ratio of 24.979. In sum, the combination optimization model demonstrated its efficacy in accurately quantifying the cost-benefits associated with the ecological environment, thereby furnishing comprehensive evaluative outcomes.
Comparative Assessment of Acute Pulmonary Effects Induced by Heated Tobacco (IQOS) Aerosol Inhalation in a Murine Model
Authors: Kim Beong Ki , Yang Won Jin , Seong Ye Seul , Choi Yong Jun , Park Hye Jung , Byun Min Kwang , Chang Yoon Soo , Cho Jae Hwa , Kim Chi Young 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Tobacco smoking remains a major global health concern, causing preventable deaths and economic strain. Although new tobacco products such as heat-no-burn (HnB) are safer alternatives to traditional cigarettes, research on their associated risks remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the effects of HnB smoke exposure on the lungs compared with traditional cigarettes and the combined use of HnB and cigarettes through experiments using a mouse model. We quantitatively analyzed changes in the levels of 92 blood plasma proteins using the proximity extension assay method and observed significant changes in their levels in mice exposed to different smoke conditions. Specifically, certain proteins increased in the HnB smoke-exposed group, including CCL20, CXCL1, and PDGF receptor, suggesting activation of the nicotine pathway. Comparative analysis with traditional cigarette smoke-exposed mice further highlighted similarities and differences in their protein expression profiles. This study contributes to a better understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying the harmful effects of alternative nicotine delivery systems and identifies potential biomarkers associated with the harmful effects of HnB smoke exposure. However, the precise impact of nicotine on the immune system may be influenced by various factors, necessitating further research.
Optimum machine learning models for osteosarcoma cancer detection and classification
Authors: Gyasi-Agyei Amoakoh 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Osteosarcoma is a bone-forming tumor which is more common with children and young adults than adults. Timely detection and classification of its type is crucial to its proper treatment and possible survival. Machine learning models, trained on datasets of the disease, are more effective detection and classification tool than hand-crafted features which are highly dependent on pathologists’ expertise. Publicly available raw osteosarcoma dataset was explored and preprocessed (including data denoising and data normalization). Three different datasets were then derived: the preprocessed dataset, and the preprocessed dataset with features selected via principal component analysis and a combination of analysis of variance and mutual information gain. Using the three datasets and eight machine learning (ML) algorithms, this study proposed three sets of optimum ML models (altogether 24 models) with their hyperparameters optimized using grid search. Then, the learned ML models were compared and validated using repeated stratified 10-fold cross-validation and 5 × 2 cross-validation paired t-test to select the best for our task. The ML model based on k-nearest neighbors algorithm proved to be the best, as it detected and classified osteosarcoma cancer in 344 ms with 100% Top-1 accuracy and F1- score and zero Type I and Type II errors. This performance exceeds those of existing algorithms for osteosarcoma cancer prediction. Thus, the proposed models are promising cutting-edge techniques for detecting osteosarcoma cancer to aid timely diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.
The mediating effect of engagement in the relationship between self-efficacy and perceived learning in the online mathematics environment among Chinese students
Authors: Huang Zhuofan , Hidayat Riyan , AYUB AHMAD FAUZI MOHD 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Perceived learning is considered an indicator of actual learning and is a crucial component of course evaluation. This study explored the mediating effect of learning engagement on the relationship between learning self-efficacy and perceived learning in an online mathematics environment. Using a predictive correlational research methodology, the study examined how the three elements of learning engagement influence the relationship between learning self-efficacy and perceived learning. A randomly selected sample of 605 students enrolled in online mathematics courses in Guangzhou participated in the survey. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) with AMOS version 24.0 was used to evaluate the hypothesized model. The maximum likelihood estimation results indicated that the measurement model for learning self-efficacy, engagement, and perceived learning had an acceptable fit. The findings demonstrated that learning self-efficacy directly predicts all three sub-constructs of learning engagement in an online mathematics environment. Furthermore, the results revealed a direct relationship between learning self-efficacy and perceived learning, with all three dimensions of learning engagement partially mediating this link. Overall, the intricate interplay between these factors highlights the importance of enhancing student self-efficacy and engagement to foster effective online learning experiences and outcomes.
Thermal deformation prediction for additive manufacturing of thin-walled components based on multi-layer transfer learning
Authors: WANG Linxuan , XU Jinghua , ZHANG Shuyou , TAN Jianrong , FEI Shaomei 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a thermal deformation prediction method for additive manufacturing of thin-walled components based on multi-layer transfer learning (MTL). The printability is forwardly designed via multi-objective optimization (MOO) by evaluating scanning length, spot amount and segment amount, accompanied by support material. To avoid the burdened and time-consuming simulation of FEM for various geometric characteristics of thin-walled components, the feed-forward multi-layer perceptron was constructed as the main structure of MTL to rapidly obtain temperature and deformation distributions of manufactured parts. The proposed method is verified by the SLM of mechanical unshrouded turbine. The metallographic diagrams of manufactured components were generated to observe the fabricating quality and verify the effectiveness of the MTL-based method. The metallographic experiment of the fabricated piece proves that the main microstructure of the cross-section of molten pool is spindly columnar crystals. The cross-section morphology and size of the molten pool is different due to different process parameters, making the width of grain is about 1µm. The proposed method is especially useful for metal 3D printing under uncertainty.
Exploring the Potential of Ornidazole as an Alternative Treatment for Pulpitis: Effects on Dental Pulp Cells and Macrophages
Authors: Yang Jing , Li Zikai , Zhang Chengcheng , Xiong Jiaying , Yang Xirui , Zheng Dandan , Xie Siming , Shi Haishan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the potential of ornidazole as an alternative treatment for pulpitis, focusing on its effects on dental pulp cells (DPCs) and macrophages. We assessed the cytotoxicity of various concentrations of ornidazole, its safety and effectiveness in treating inflammatory DPCs, and its regulatory impact on inflammatory markers during inflammation.
Materials and Methods: Inflammation in dental pulp cells was induced using lipopolysaccharides (LPS), and varying doses of ornidazole were introduced. Cell proliferation, migration, regulation of inflammation, and promotion of dentinogenesis under inflammatory conditions were evaluated. Additionally, macrophages were cultured with different doses of ornidazole to analyze inflammatory gene expression.
Results: Ornidazole concentrations below 10 µg/mL showed no significant cytotoxic effects on DPCs over 7 days. The toxicity of ornidazole was concentration- and time-dependent. Ornidazole decreased the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α while enhancing IL-Ra and IL-8 expression. It also suppressed alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity but increased the levels of odontogenic differentiation markers at both genetic and protein levels in the presence of inflammatory stimuli. Furthermore, ornidazole demonstrated immunomodulatory effects.
Conclusions: Low concentrations of ornidazole were safe for use in pulp cells. Ornidazole modulated the expression of inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-8, IL-Ra) in inflamed DPCs and regulated odontogenesis-related markers. Low concentrations of ornidazole enhanced macrophage immune regulation, showing potential as a medication for treating pulpitis.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study investigates ornidazole’s affinity for dental pulp cells, its effectiveness in reducing inflammation, and its regulatory effects on odontogenic processes. By examining the impact of different concentrations of ornidazole on pulp inflammation-related cells, we aim to assess its therapeutic potential for pulpitis and provide a reference for its clinical application.
Phenotype-to-genotype description of prenatal suspected and postnatal discovered upper limb anomalies: a retrospective cohort study.
Authors: Arduc Arda , Dijk Sandra , Cate Feikje , Doesburg Margriet , Linskens Ingeborg , Leeuwen Liesbeth , Maarle Merel , Eva Pajkrt 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This is a retrospective cohort study to evaluate phenotype and genotype characteristics of a prenatal and postnatal cohort with upper limb anomalies from January 2007 to December 2021 in one tertiary referral center for Fetal Medicine. All prenatally on ultrasound suspected upper limb anomalies, such as transverse and longitudinal reduction defects, polydactyly, and syndactyly were evaluated. Additionally, children referred to the Congenital Hand team in the same center with upper limb anomalies that were not identified prenatally, were also evaluated separately.
The prenatal group included 199 pregnancies: 64 transverse and 19 longitudinal reduction defects, 103 polydactylies, and 13 cases with syndactyly. The majority of cases with longitudinal reduction defects (n=10, 52.6%), polydactyly (n=62, 60.2%), and syndactyly (n=10, 76.9%) were non-isolated, as opposed to transverse reduction defects which were generally isolated (n=41, 64.1%). The Congenital Hand Team received 362 new referrals of children with upper limb anomalies that were not identified prenatally. These cases included 49 transverse and 22 longitudinal reduction defects, 226 polydactylies, and 65 syndactlylies. A chromosomal or monogenic abnormality was identified in 76/199 (38.2%) cases of the prenatal group and in 31/362 (8.6%) cases of the postnatal group.
Prenatal identification of minor defects of the digits holds a challenge, since we observed more postnatal than prenatal cases. The majority of cases with isolated anomalies in both groups had no underlying chromosomal, monogenic or syndromic cause, as compared to the non-isolated cases. Conducting structural anomaly scans and genetic counselling are crucial to assess the risk of genetic abnormalities.