bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficient removal of Congo red and cytotoxicity evaluation of biosorbents prepared from chitosan-added watermelon pulp
Authors: Bingöl Mehmet Semih 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Biosorbents were prepared by lyophilizing chitosan-added watermelon pulp (AC-WPC). The prepared biosorbents were characterized by BET, SEM, Zeta Potential and FT-IR analysis. Accordingly, BET surface areas of AC-WPC was 120.92 m2/g, respectively. SEM analysis showed that the structures were porous and the results were consistent with the BET analysis. FT-IR analysis confirmed the chemical structures. The isoelectric points of the biosorbents were determined by zeta potential analysis. The AC-WPC biosorbent demonstrated 86% cell viability with cytotoxicity testing. For this reason, it was determined that the AC-WPC produced does not cause any serious damage to the cell. A study was carried out on the removal of Congo red textile dye in wastewater by the prepared biosorbents. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were studied in adsorption studies and Freundlich isotherm was found to be compatible. Pseudo First and Second kinetic models were also studied. The highest adsorption capacity was observed at 100 mg/l Congo red concentration with 98.02% removal and 490.1 mg/g adsorption capacity with AC-WPC. It is thought that these results will potentially contribute to the literature on the removal of textile dyes or other pollutants using chitosan-added watermelon pulp.
Water Jet Guided Laser Cutting of Thick Section Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer
Authors: Mason Ben , Elkington Helen , Sezer Kursad , Marimuthu Sundar 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Laser cutting is well established for cutting metals, alloys, and ceramics. However, its application for cutting fibre reinforced polymer composites is constrained due to specific challenges. The distinct optical and thermal properties of the fibres and matrix often lead to excessive thermal damage. Thick-section laser cutting of composites is an especially challenging task. The water jet guided laser (WJGL), employing a hair-thin water jet to guide the laser, has proven successful for such challenging materials. Thermal damage is minimized by effective in-situ cooling of the interaction zone by the water flow. This work evaluates the feasibility of WJGL cutting glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP). A WJGL system, fitted with a 400 W green nanosecond laser, was used to cut 7.5 mm thick GFRP using a multi-pass strategy. Effective cutting speeds of up to 10.1 mm/min were obtained with an average wall taper of 1.91°. Improvements in taper angle were realised via reduced effective cutting speeds (0.81°, 7.5 mm/min). Defects including charring, edge chipping, and matrix discolouration were observed. These results show that while the WJGL can cut thick GFRP with minimal defects, further work is required to enhance the productivity before the technique could be viable for widespread adoption.
Exploring the effectiveness of eHealth interventions in treating Post Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) outcomes: a systematic review.
Authors: Lai Daniel , Liu Zhao , Johnston Elaine , Dikomitis Lisa , D'Oliveira Teresa , Shergill Sukhi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background:
It remains unclear how to optimise critical care rehabilitation outcomes to reduce the constellation of long-term physical, psychological and cognitive impairments known as Post Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS). Possible reasons for poor recovery include access to care and delayed treatment. eHealth could potentially aid in increasing access and provide consistent care remotely. Our review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of eHealth interventions on PICS outcomes.
Methods:
Studies reporting eHealth interventions targeting Post Intensive Care Syndrome outcomes, published in Medline, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, and Scopus from 30th January 2010 to 12th February 2024, were included in the review. Study eligibility was assessed by two reviewers and any disagreements were discussed between them or resolved by a third reviewer. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool. Further to the identification of effective strategies, our review also aimed to clarify the timeline of recovery considered and the outcomes or domains targeted by the interventions.
Results:
Out of 3,673 articles screened, 13 studies were included in our review. Most studies were conducted in the early post discharge phase (i.e., < 3 months) and presented preliminary effectiveness of eHealth interventions on physical and psychological outcomes. Despite evidence suggesting an optimisation of rehabilitative effects when multiple domains are targeted in the intervention, research has yet to concurrently target all three domains of PICS. Though the interventions were described as feasible and acceptable in all studies, the lack of robust monitoring systems to track the PICS domain outcomes is indisputable.
Conclusion:
Our systematic review highlighted the promising contributions of eHealth with preliminary support for the feasibility and effectiveness of interventions in the early stages of post-critical care rehabilitation. However, it also highlights the fragmented approach to the concept of PICS. The 3 domains should be viewed as interrelated and not as distinct areas of recovery. Future research needs to investigate an integrative approach to these three domains, explore potential domain interrelationships, consider the challenges associated with large-scale eHealth implementation, and greater use of remote monitoring systems. Despite these challenges, eHealth is a critical solution in providing access, continuity, and sustainable care in the post-critical care setting.
Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on miR-29c and miR-146a Expression in the Hippocampus of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Male Rats
Authors: Ichi Mehdi Soltani , Shabkhiz Fatemeh , Kordi Mohammadreza 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background/objectives:
MicroRNAs have recently emerged as potential biomarkers for various diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and neurological disorders. This study aimed to investigate whether microRNA-146a, its inflammatory mediator (TNF-α), and microRNA-29c expression are altered in the hippocampus of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats following high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Methods
Twenty-four male Wistar rats (180 ± 10 g, 6–8 weeks old) were divided into four groups: control (C), diabetic (D-1w), diabetic (D-6w), and diabetic high-intensity interval training (Dia-Exe). Diabetes was induced by a single-dose intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of streptozotocin (STZ; 55 mg/kg dissolved in 0.1 M citrate buffer, pH 4.5) in rats fasted for 12 hours with blood sugar exceeding 250. The effects of six weeks of HIIT on hippocampal microRNA-146a, microRNA-29c expression, and serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were evaluated using Real-Time PCR and ELISA techniques, respectively.
Results
Diabetic rats displayed reduced miR-146a and increased microRNA-29c expression in the hippocampus compared to controls. Additionally, TNF-α levels were elevated in the D groups compared to the C group. However, HIIT training in the Dia-Exe group significantly decreased microRNA-29c and TNF-α expression while increasing microRNA-146a expression compared to the D-6w group.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that increased hyperglycemia and inflammation in diabetic rats are associated with brain impairment and negatively correlated with miR-146a and microRNA-29c expression. HIIT training appears to improve glycemic control and inflammatory conditions in diabetic rats.
Proteomic and Metabolomic Profiling of Archaeal Extracellular Vesicles from the Human Gut
Authors: Moissl-Eichinger Christine , Weinberger Viktora , Darnhofer Barbara , Mertelj Polona , Stentz Régis , Thapa Himadri , Jones Emily , Grabmann Gerlinde , Mohammadzadeh Rokhsareh , Shinde Tejus , Juodeikis Rokas , Pernitsch Dominique , Hingerl Kerstin , Zurabischvili Tamara , Kumpitsch Christina , Kuehnast Torben , Kolb Dagmar , Cross Kathryn , Weichhart Thomas , Koecher Thomas , Koefeler Harald , Carding Simon , Schild Stefan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Microorganisms thriving in the human gastrointestinal microbiome have developed numerous mechanisms for microbiome-host and microbe-microbe interaction, including the formation of extracellular vesicles (EVs). However, the interactive mechanisms of members of the human archaeome remained largely unexplored. Here, we report the capability of two Methanobrevibacter strains M. smithii, Cand. M. intestini and Methanosphaera stadtmanae, to produce EVs. While the size (~ 130 nm) and morphology of these archaeal EVs were comparable to bacterial EVs, proteomic and metabolomic analyses revealed unique traits. The proteins found in both the EVs of M. smithii and Cand. M. intestini (n = 229) predominantly included adhesin and adhesin-like proteins, involved in archaea-surface and archaea-bacteria interaction. Additionally, the archaeal EVs contained glutamic acid and choline glycerophosphate, which could be involved in gut-brain signalling. Vesicles from all studied species were efficiently taken up by human monocytes and induced IL-8 production in epithelial HT-29 cells. The identification of archaeal EVs and their components provides novel insights into the complex interactions between the archaeal and bacterial microbiome and the host, potentially offering new paths to modulate vesicle-mediated impacts on host health.
Whole-Body Human Ultrasound Tomography
Authors: Wang Lihong , Garrett David , Xu Jinhua , Aborahama Yousuf , Ku Geng , Maslov Konstantin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Ultrasonography is a vital component of modern clinical care, with handheld probes routinely used for a variety of applications. However, handheld ultrasound imaging is limited by factors such as the partial-body field of view, operator dependency, contact-induced distortion, and lack of transmission contrast. Here, we demonstrate a new system enabling whole-body ultrasound tomography of humans in reflection and transmission modes. To generate 2D isotropically resolved images across the entire cross-section in vivo, we use a custom 512-element circular ultrasound receiver array with a rotating ultrasonic transmitter. We demonstrate this technique in regions such as the abdomen and legs in healthy volunteers. We also showcase two potential clinical extensions. First, we readily observe subcutaneous and preperitoneal abdominal adipose distributions in our images, enabling adipose thickness assessment over the body without ionizing radiation or mechanical deformation. Second, we demonstrate an approach for rapid (seven frame-per-second) biopsy needle localization with respect to internal tissue features. These capabilities make whole-body ultrasound tomography a potential practical tool for clinical needs currently unmet by other modalities.
Kernel learning enables fluorescence microscopic image deconvolution with enhanced performance and speed
Authors: Cheng Shenghua , Lu Qiqi , Ye Hua , Liu Xiuli , Zeng Shaoqun , Feng Qianjin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The contrast and resolution of fluorescence microscopic images can be effectively improved by classic iterative Richardson-Lucy Deconvolution (RLD) algorithm, but this method is computationally expensive, particularly for three-dimensional data. Variants of RLD with manually designed unmatched backward projector can greatly accelerate deconvolution, however, they require careful parameter optimization to avoid introducing artifacts. Here, we develop Kernel Learning Deconvolution (KLD), which automatically learns forward/backward kernel in RLD from only one paired low-resolution and high-resolution images. The learned kernel reveals a similar pattern with handcrafted Wiener-Butterworth kernel but is more adaptive to data. Besides, it is robust to the signal-to-noise ratio and the number of training samples. KLD shows enhanced deconvolution performance and speed on different cellular structures and imaging modalities, including wide-field microscopy, confocal microscopy, and lattice light-sheet microscopy.
Soil organic matter oxidation by hydroxyl radical: an overlooked route of greenhouse gas production in drylands
Authors: Zhou Xiaobing 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The rewetting of dry soils by rainfall pulses boosts the release of greenhouse gases over a short time period and is the primary pathway for greenhouse gas emissions in dryland ecosystems. However, the intrinsic mechanisms underlying such emission pulses of greenhouse gases are not clear, especially in areas covered by biological soil crusts with strong microbial activity. Here, we simulated rain events in bareland, cyanobacteria/lichen, and moss crusted soil using triple isotope labeling (13C, 15N, and 18O) to explore the sources of the hydroxyl radical (·OH) and their effects on greenhouse gas production. We found that the ·OH was produced after a rainfall event via rapid activation of microorganisms in the soils. The carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) production significantly decreased after ·OH removal, whereas the methane (CH4) production was not affected. We revealed that ·OH synergy with enzymatic reactions of microorganisms increased CO2 production from the soil by 25%. The ·OH also stimulated the conversion of NH4+ to NO3− and dominated the N2O production (80%). Our results confirm the pivotal role of ·OH in the production of greenhouse gases and indicate that microbially mediated ·OH oxidation mechanisms are an overlooked dominated pathway for the emission of greenhouse gases in dryland ecosystems.
Helicobacter Pylori Status in Al-Suwayda
Authors: Almhethawe Osama , Ali Ayman 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Helicobacter pylori eradication therapies are commonly employed to ameliorate gastric mucosal inflammation, facilitate ulcer healing, and mitigate the risk of gastric cancer. However, several challenges are associated with H. pylori eradication. Firstly, diverse treatment protocols are currently utilized globally, with variations based on geographical regions and countries. Secondly, the emergence of antimicrobial resistance in H. pylori is exacerbated by indiscriminate antibiotic usage. Lastly, there is a potential for gut microbiota dysbiosis resulting from H. pylori treatment.
Method
A retrospective study was conducted on patients who had diagnosed with H. Pylori and were treated in Suwayda Hospital.
Results
In our study, a cohort of 96 patients was examined, with an average age of 47.11 years. The majority of the sample consisted of female patients, totaling 59 individuals. The predominant symptom observed in 89 patients was epigastric pain, while the primary diagnostic approach for H. pylori patients involved upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with biopsies, as utilized in 94 cases. The majority of patients (85 individuals) underwent triple therapy for H. pylori eradication, whereas a smaller subset (9 patients, constituting 9%) received quadruple therapy.
Conclusion
Enhancing our comprehension of immune system dynamics across various age groups—where childhood tends to sustain infection persistence and adulthood is associated with gastric damage—can inform the formulation of strategies aimed at reducing H. pylori prevalence, including vaccine development, and mitigating adverse clinical consequences related to infection.
Levels of natural and anthropogenic radionuclides in selected environmental radioactivity monitoring sites in Singapore
Authors: Wong E. , Tan H.J. , Alvarado J.A. Corcho 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This paper provides insights into the radioactivity levels in soil, sediment and surface seawater from selected monitoring sites in Singapore. The environmental samples were measured for naturally occurring and anthropogenic radionuclides. In soils, the decay series of 232Th and 238U are the highest contributors to the total radioactivity, while in sediments, 40K is the main contributor to the total radioactivity. The levels of 90Sr, 137Cs and 239+240Pu are also reported. The data demonstrates that the main source of anthropogenic radionuclides in soils is the global fallout from nuclear weapons testings; in sediments, contributions from the Pacific Proving Grounds have been identified. This study also highlights significant differences in radioactivity levels in soils between the northern and central regions of Singapore, which are attributed to the histories of the monitoring sites.
Time Frequency Analyses of stationary and non-stationary signals using MATLAB functions and Toolboxes)
Authors: Yousef Yousef Ali , Cosman Vaughn , Rey Maria 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Time-frequency analysis of non-stationary signals in a noisy environment is a challenging research subject spanning many areas, and often requires simultaneous signal decomposition in the time and frequency domains. Non-stationary signals are composed of numerous frequencies and irregularly changing amplitudes in time. Unlike sinusoidal waves, square waves, and other types of stationary signals, non-stationary signals do not have repeated patterns that can be easily characterized and modeled. The analysis of non-stationary signals requires a special methodological approach and mathematical means, which allow discovery and analysis of the main features of the non-stationary signal using signal transformation. The general method for signal analysis is to apply Fourier transformations. However, Fourier transform analysis provides actual spectra only for stationary signals. Also, the Fourier transform only provides information in the frequency domain without providing time information. For non-stationary signal analysis, the most valid methods are the Short Time Fourier Transform and wavelet transform. In this work, we investigate comprehensively different methodological approaches and mathematical tools for non-stationary analysis and compare these results when applied to stationary signals.
Evaluating the Methods Used in Managing and Monitoring a Diabetic Woman and Her Fetus During Pregnancy at Al-Zahrawi Hospital to Arrive at a Better Treatment Plan.
Authors: mohamad Khunav , Hammoud Taghrid 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective: to evaluate the methods used in managing and monitoring a diabetic woman and her fetus during pregnancy in Al-Zahrawi Hospital in Damascus to arrive at a better treatment plan.
Place of study: Syrian Arab Republic, Damascus, Al-Zahrawi Hospital.
Study period: between 1-1-2018 and 1-1-2024.
Type of study: Descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study.
Patients: The study included 128 pregnant women who were diagnosed with diabetes in the presence of high fasting blood sugar levels ≥ 95 mg/dL (5.33 mmol/L), who gave birth in Al-Zahrawi Hospital in Damascus.
Results: 128 diabetic pregnant women were studied. The types of diabetes were distributed almost equally between the three types. Diabetes was controlled by diet (20.3%), or by giving insulin (70.3%), and 9.4% of them were reviewed at the time of delivery and remained without treatment. We found that obesity is a factor. A risk common to all patients: the optimal timing for terminating a pregnancy is between 38-40 weeks of gestation, and the perinatal mortality rate increases when the expected delivery date is exceeded, the caesarean section rate increases by 60.9%, in diabetic pregnancies, the perinatal morbidity and mortality rate increases (9.75%), due to an increase in The rate of fetal malformations is (31.25%) on the one hand, and due to macrosomia (21.3%), on the other hand, which is accompanied by functional immaturity that leads to disturbances in the adaptation of the newborn of a diabetic mother to life outside the uterine.
Conclusion: Diabetic women must be provided with the information they need to achieve optimal blood sugar control results and enhance their ability to prevent diabetes during pregnancy.
Engaging with crisis-affected populations using the user-centred community engagement methodology: lessons learned in Tukaley, Ethiopia
Authors: Rosato-Scott Claire , Barrington Dani J. 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT
Conducting research (a) in a humanitarian context and (b) with children aged 5–12 presents such unique challenges that those responding to a crisis often design programmes based on their anecdotal experience rather than evidence. The user-centred community engagement (UCCE) methodology was designed by Save the Children and Eclipse Experience to engage with crisis-affected communities to generate practical solutions to their priority needs. This paper has assessed the use of the UCCE methodology in Tukaley using Bowen et al.'s proposed areas of focus for a feasibility study. It has found that all elements of the UCCE process were implemented in practice as they were designed to be implemented; both the participants and facilitators found the UCCE methodology acceptable; and the UCCE methodology could be adapted for use in alternative contexts. However, the recruitment and training of facilitators were identified as the biggest challenge as the methodology continues on its journey to scale, especially due to the risk that if any component of the UCCE methodology is not done well enough, it could damage the willingness of a community to engage in future projects.
Enhancing bioelectricity generation through co-cultivation of bacteria consortium and microalgae in photosynthetic microbial fuel cell
Authors: Chaijak Pimprapa , Kongthong Alisa 
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the effect of microbial configuration on the electrochemical performance of photosynthetic microbial fuel cells (PMFCs). The PMFC configuration incorporating both bacteria and microalgae exhibited the highest open-circuit voltage (OCV) of 397.95 ± 31.53 mV, significantly higher than that of the OCVs obtained in the sterile control (C1) and the microalgae-only configuration (C2), which were 32.47 ± 22.43 mV and 284.59 ± 12.63 mV, respectively. Furthermore, the PMFC containing only microalgae achieved a current density (CD) of 20.96 ± 0.18 mA/m³ and a power density (PD) of 0.40 ± 0.01 mW/m³ under room temperature conditions. Notably, the combined bacteria and microalgae configuration demonstrated a substantial performance improvement, yielding a significantly higher CD of 49.33 ± 0.36 mA/m³ and PD of 0.78 ± 0.01 mW/m³ at room temperature. This configuration also achieved a maximum decolorization of 93.57 ± 0.10% with a corresponding algal biomass recovery of 134.90 ± 2.69 mg/L. These findings highlighted the critical role of microbial composition in PMFC performance. The combination of bacteria and microalgae yielded superior results compared to other configurations under the investigated conditions.