bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Blue energy harvesting and divalent ions: Capacitive Reverse Electrodialysis cell with a single membrane opens a gateway to new applications
Authors: WU Nan , Brahmi Youcef , Levant Michael , Tregouet Corentin , Colin Annie 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

A considerable disparity persists between lab-scale studies and the industrial application in the study of Reverse Electrodialysis (RED). A notable distinction arises in the choice of feed solutions. While earlier researches report the power density performances of RED systems fed by ideal artificial solutions predominantly composed of monovalent ions such as NaCl or KCl, real-world applications necessitate the use of complex solutions featuring a mix of multivalent ions. Prior investigations indicate a pronounced decline in electrical potential and power density in RED systems when operated with solution mixed with divalent ions. This study specifically explores the impact of divalent ion mixing on capacitive RED systems. Our findings reveal a membrane voltage drop attributable to the uphill effect, mirroring outcomes observed in similar studies. However, the consistent contribution of capacitive electrodes, constituting 50 % of the total voltage, remains unaltered. During the operational cycle involving periodic water chamber switches, the accumulation of cations within the ion exchange membrane remains minimal. Consequently, the decrease in voltage and the associated decline in power density stemming from divalent ion mixing are comparatively modest, suggesting a minor ion trapping and fouling problem in this case. Furthermore, a comprehensive examination of the system's long-term performance spanning 500 minutes affirms the sustained stability of its energy efficiency. Our findings have important implications on the valorization of salinity gradients in industrial operations.
Denoising autoencoder-based bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing data analyses reveal a comorbidity relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and lung cancer
Authors: Li Jialin , Tang Mingbo , Gao Xinliang , Wang Chi , Liu Wei , Tian Suyan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Numerous investigators have studied the correlation between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and lung cancer (LC), yet a precise comprehension of their interconnection remains elusive. Prior studies have demonstrated the efficacy of certain targeted therapies for controlling ferroptosis in treating AD and LC. Moreover, ferroptosis plays a role in immune regulation. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the association between AD and LC in terms of ferroptosis and particularly its relevance to immune function. Firstly, bulk RNA sequencing data of AD and LC patients were employed to construct a denoising autoencoder (DAE) model that extracted a representation of ferroptosis-related genes. The representation scores were then utilized to conduct an in-depth investigation of the relationship between the two diseases. Furthermore, as immune function plays a pivotal role in AD and LC, we assessed the association of immune function between two diseases by isolating immune-related from Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data and constructing a DAE model. Using a DAE model based on bulk RNA and scRNA-seq data, the comorbidity relationship between AD and LC in the context of ferroptosis was identified. Furthermore, we found that immune cells affected by ferroptosis might play an important role in the pathogenesis of this comorbidity.
The use of different types of organic methods and waste materials for the improvement of natural asphalt as roofing mastic and pavement asphalt
Authors: Muslim Rasim Farraj , Ahmed Thamer Yousif , Eyada Saadoon Obaid , Abd-Alghafour N. M. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Hit city has the largest deposit of Natural Asphalt NA in Iraq. Different attempts were made to enhance the properties of NA to be used for different purposes. In this study, two types of NAs and three types of wastes were used to study how adding wastes to NA can effect on the rheological properties of the blends. Penetration, softening point and rotational viscosity tests were conducted. The results improved that adding wastes to NA has a significant effect on the rheological properties of NA by increasing the stiffness of NA. New roofing mastic can be produced by mixing 12–16% of wastes with NA. Adding 40% of hard NA to soft NA can produce new type of NA that can be used for road pavement.
Modification of ionic wood for enhanced phase change performance
Authors: Fu Yuan , Wang Huanbo , Liu Yue , Li Jinpeng , Sun Xianzu , Liu Tian 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Wood with a porous structure is the best carrier for phase change energy storage materials, which can effectively prevent material leakage during thermal cycling and ensure its shaping effect. In this work, the delignified veneer oxidized with TEMPO was used as a thermal energy storage system. Then, it was immersed in a solution of ethanol as the solvent, polyethylene glycol (PEG), and calcium chloride as the solutes, obtaining thermal energy storage ionic wood (DTW-TES). The results showed that the phase change material PEG2000-CaCl2 was impregnated into the pore structure of wood; calcium ions were effectively combined with -COOH in modified wood for intermediate bonds, thus forming white complex crystals with PEG2000. As a result, PEG2000-CaCl2 was successfully adsorbed into wood pores. The maximum absorption rate and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test results showed that TEMPO-oxidized delignified poplar had a maximum absorption rate of 99% for PEG2000-CaCl2. Additionally, TEMPO-oxidized delignified poplar exhibited good phase transition performance and a suitable phase transition temperature of 23.2oC. The latent heat of phase transition was 84.8 J/g. Thus, the novel DTW-TES displayed a high potential application in the field of thermal energy storage and temperature regulation.
A case report of Peripartum Cardiomyopathy Complicated with Myocardial Infarction and Heart Failure in a Teaching Hospital Sri Lanka
Authors: Madhusanka R.B.D , Edirisinghe E.S.Y 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Introduction: PPCM define as the onset of heart failure within the last month of pregnancy or up to the first 5 months postpartum in absence of an identifiable cause. It presents as a dilated cardiomyopathy, is common in obese, multiparous women over 30 years old, and is associated with pre-eclampsia. Nearly half of the patients will recover to normal function within 5months but in some cases, it can cause progressive heart failure and sudden death. In this report, we describe a case of heart failure following peripartum cardiomyopathy.
Case Presentation: A 48-year-old Sri Lankan lady was admitted to our hospital with a history of two episodes of tightening type central chest pain, gradual onset of shortness of breath, and leg oedema. She was diagnosed with hypertension and peripartum cardiomyopathy 17 years back. At the same time, she was found to have non-ST elevated myocardial infarction and she was managed in ICU.
Conclusion: This case confirms that peripartum cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure
Enriching Poly(lactic acid) Properties: Impact of Chitosan Nanoparticles and Jojoba Oil on Physico-chemical Characteristics and Isothermal Crystallization Behavior
Authors: Elsawy Moataz A. , Ali E. S. , Chritiansen Jesper Claville , Saad Gamal. R. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Poly(lactic acid), PLA, loaded with chitosan nanoparticles, CsNP, (3.0%, w/w) and jojoba oil, JO, (3.0%, w/w), as a plasticizer, were prepared by twin screw extrusion. The manufactured PLA/CsNP, PLA/JO and PLA/CsNP/JO compounds were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravemetric analysis (TG), tensile testing, Izod impact test and wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). The PLA/CsNP, PLA/JO and PLA/CsNP/JO compounds exhibited improved elongation and impact strength compared with neat PLA. The presence of JO slightly improved the thermal stability of PLA, while CsNP decreased the thermal stability of the PLA. The incorporation of CNPs and JO accelerated the cold crystallization rate of PLA, which is related to a nucleation effect of the CsNP and increase of the chain mobility as a plasticization effect of the JO. No modification in crystalline structure of PLA was observed as a result of the presence of the CsNP and the JO. Avrami equation was employed to describe the cold and melt isothermal crystallization process of neat PLA and PLA/CNP composite with and without JO. The combination additives of CsNP and JO accelerated the crystallization rate in a less extent than CsNP or JO alone.
An Ecoregion Approach Characterizing Chloride Concentrations in New York State Flowing and Ponded Waters
Authors: Stoll Charles G. , Duffy Brian , Onion Alene , Smith Alexander , Streeter Meredith , Smith Zachary 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In the United States, chloride (Cl) concentrations in surface waters are increasing nationally. Analysis of water quality trends in New York State (NYS) surface waters demonstrated Cl concentrations are increasing in some areas. Within the literature, considerable focus has been given to understanding the drivers and cumulative effects of Cl concentrations in the water column, but more work is needed to understand spatial patterns and the variability of Cl in the aquatic environment. To evaluate the gradient of Cl concentrations in surface waters across NYS, 13,690 discrete samples, collected between 2001 and 2019, from 1,661 unique locations were aggregated and compared among Level III United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Ecoregions and classified into novel, regionally distinct NYS Cl Ecoregions (ClE). Median Cl concentrations in the ClE correlated with land cover patterns. Maximum Cl concentration for each sampled location were compared against NYS’s Health (Water Source) water quality standard (WQS) of 250 mg/L and USEPA’s aquatic (chronic) 230 mg/L criteria. The frequency of flowing and ponded water sampling locations in NYS with a concentration above the NYS WQS (0–3%) or USEPA criteria (1–4%) are low but vary by ClE (0–11%). The characterization of statewide condition represented here provides needed context to water quality managers about the relative condition of their waters and potential for Cl impacts. The ClE approach provides a potential framework for development and implementation of future Cl management strategies based on regional condition enabling a balanced approach between restoration of water quality and protection priorities.
Nicotine exposure increases PIK3CA, AKT1, HIF-1α, GLUT1, CA9 and VEGF expression in oral potentially malignant lesions
Authors: Santos Joaquim Gasparini dos , Oliveira Mayara Mota , Otuyama Leonardo Jun , Mendes Suzanny Oliveira , Borçoi Aline Ribeiro , Moreno Ivana Alece Arantes , Peterle Gabriela Tonini , Maia Lucas Lima , Costa Adriana Fraga , Archanjo Anderson Barros , Nunes Fabio Daumas , Silva Adriana Madeira Alvares 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background:
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a highly aggressive malignancy often arising from oral potentially malignant lesions (OPMD). Nicotine triggers pathways associated with tumor progression, angiogenesis, and metastasis, notably PI3K/AKT and HIF-1. This study investigated the impact of nicotine on cell viability, migration, and gene expression (PIK3CA, AKT1, HIF-1α, GLUT1, CA9 and VEGF) in DOK and SCC9 cell lines.
Methods and Results:
DOK and SCC9 cell lines, were cultured in standard media and conditions, exposed to different nicotine concentrations (control, 1 µM, and 10 µM) for 8 and 24 hours. Cell viability assay, wound healing scratch assay cell, RNA extraction and RT-qPCR analysis of target genes were performed. Nicotine increased DOK cell migration and mRNA expression of PIK3CA, AKT1, HIF-1α, GLUT1, CA9, and VEGF after 8-hour exposure to 10 µM nicotine.
Conclusions
Our results suggest a relationship between nicotine exposure and the increased expression of genes that have a strict association with metabolites, survival, proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis in DOK, where the expression patterns were well-defined within 8 hours and in a dose-dependent manner. Further studies are warranted to comprehend nicotine's intricate mechanisms impacting oral cancer progression.
Structural and Bactericidal Properties of Cu-TiO2 Biocides Incorporated in Polypropylene
Authors: Govindasamy G Ambarasan , Sreekan Srimala , Saharudin Khairul Arifah , Poliah Ramarao , Ong Ming Thong , T Priscilla J. , Sahgal G. , Tan Aik Aun 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Polymer-based appliances are vulnerable to bacterial infections and poses a significant concern in biomedical field. Both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria have been identified as potential sources of infectious diseases, necessitating a comprehensive exploration of innovative materials and strategies to mitigate this issue. Accordingly, this work targeted to determine the effect of 1% and 7% Cu-TiO2 on the antibacterial activity of PP composite against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). In this work, oval-shaped Cu-TiO2 were fabricated by a hydrothermal method and then incorporated into the PP by internal mixing. Subsequently XRD, TEM, FESEM, and EDS were used to characterize the Cu-TiO2-PP composite. The structural properties of PP composite were greatly altered with dispersion of Cu-TiO2. Antibacterial tests demonstrated that the bactericidal efficiency of Cu-TiO2-PP composite on microorganisms greatly improved with metal-ionic systems compared with pure PP. This work throws some new insight in addressing catheter-related blood-stream infection.
Factors Influencing Research Productivity among Syrian Medical Professionals amidst Conflict: a Case-Control Study
Authors: Hanafi Ibrahem , Kheder Kheder , Sabouni Rami , Rahmeh Ahmad Rami , Alsalkini Marah , Hanafi Mouaz , Naeem Ahmad , Alahdab Fares 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background:
While medical research productivity is rapidly accelerating in the world generally, it remains poor in many third-world countries due to many factors including the lack of training and the brain drain of healthcare professionals. Syria had been showing a slow upward trend until the war broke out and severely hindered academic growth and productivity. A continued lack of data on the scale of, and factors behind, this phenomenon needs to be addressed to better understand the current academic productivity and inform educational policies and resource allocation. Additionally, one of the challenges is the small sample sizes of previous cross-sectional studies that evaluated the perspectives of Syrian academics to disentangle the factors that paved the way for these published healthcare workers to pursue research. Therefore, we present a case-control study that targeted this specific population and compared its characteristics and self-reported perceptions to matching controls without previous research involvement.
Methods:
We first identified Syrian early-career published authors in the healthcare field through an extensive search of PubMed and Google scholar. The questionnaire was subsequently publicly published to recruit matching controls: unpublished researchers and participants with no prior research contributions. The questionnaire covered participants’ research contributions, alongside their self-assessed knowledge, attitudes, and barriers towards research.
Results:
Six-hundred-sixteen participants were recruited. Their knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers explained 46% and 34% of the variability in research involvement and publication, respectively (P < 0.001). Getting involved in and publishing research studies associated with higher research-related knowledge and attitudes (P < 0.001). Respondents’ assessment of research-related barriers and their academic scores did not differ between cases and controls. Superior research-related knowledge and attitudes were associated with male gender, higher English competency, and better internet connectivity. Meanwhile, extracurricular training and mentors’ support were associated with more positive research-related attitudes and less perceived barriers.
Conclusions:
Research productivity of early-career medical professionals in Syria exhibits a positive correlation with their knowledge and favorable attitudes towards medical research. Noteworthy, demographic variations are linked to disparities in research-related knowledge and motivation. In conclusion, these results suggest a potential avenue for enhancement through concentrated efforts on improving extracurricular training interventions and mentors’ support.
Conservative treatment using platelet-rich plasma for acute anterior cruciate ligament injuries in highly active patients
Authors: Hada Shinnosuke , Hada Masao , Yoshida Keiichi , Kaneko Haruka , Saita Yoshitomo , Kubota Mitsuaki , Ishijima Muneaki 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
The recommended treatment for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in active, sports-oriented patients is reconstructive surgery in order to regain stability and prevent secondary meniscal injuries. However, ACL reconstruction requires a long recovery period and poses issues, such as decreased muscle strength due to tendon harvesting and postoperative osteoarthritis (OA) progression, thereby raising significant expectations for the advancement of conservative treatments. Recent studies have shown that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which utilizes the tissue repair-promoting property of platelets, is effective for ACL injuries. We conducted a retrospective survey of ligament repair status and return-to-sport condition in patients with ACL injury who underwent conservative treatment using PRP.
Methods
We administered PRP therapy within 6 weeks after ACL injury in patients who expressed the desire for an early return to sports through conservative care. After the treatment, patients wore a simple brace that limited deep flexion but placed no restrictions on weight bearing. Four months was the standard goal established for returning to pre-injury condition, and, depending on the target level, timing, and knee condition, we adjusted the additional PRP treatments and rehabilitation approach, gradually authorizing the patients’ return to sport. We assessed the ligament repair status by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) just before the full return to sports.
Results
The average patient age was 32.7 years and the average treatment was 2.8 PRP sessions. MRI evaluations confirmed that ligament continuity was regained in all cases. All the patients returned to their pre-injury level (Tegner Activity Scale 7.0) in an average of 139.5 days, but there was one instance of re-rupture following the return to sports.
Conclusion
All patients with ACL injury who underwent PRP therapy regained ligament continuity and returned to sport successfully with only one case of re-rupture.
A Performance Evaluation of Seismic Retrofit of Existing Greece Building
Authors: Yousif Mohanad Salsal , Pragalath D. C. Haran 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
A seismic retrofit entails modifying existing structures in order to improve the system's performance or to repair or strengthen its components to reach the desired performance. In order to arrive at an appropriate retrofitting scheme, the structure's vulnerability and a detailed seismic evaluation are essential, where seismic fragility curves are one of the tools for seismic evaluation. In this study, a 5-storey typical existing Greek building is selected which was designed according to Greek Code. The selected buildings are modelled for nonlinear analysis with and without shear walls. Seismic records are selected, scaled and modified according to Greek Response spectrum. Dynamic time-history analysis is performed. Inter-story drift is considered as damage parameter and fragility curves are developed for various performance levels. This holistic approach contributes to the broader understanding of seismic retrofitting methodologies and their applicability to existing structures, particularly those designed under specific regional codes such as the Greek Code. The result shows that there are significant improvements after retrofitting the building using shear walls.
Effects of Cadmium Stress on the Growth and Physiological Characteristics of Sweet Potato in the Whole Growth Period
Authors: Ran Tengfei , Cao Guofan , Xiao LiLi , Li Yongpeng , xia Ru , Zhao Xueting , Qin Yun , Wu Peng , Tian Shanjun 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

This study evaluated the responses of sweet potatoes to Cd stress through pot experiments, thus laying a theoretical foundation for their comprehensive utilization in Cd-polluted cultivated land. Four treatments were designed in the experiments, i.e., CK and three Cd stress treatments (T1, T2, and T3) with Cd concentrations of 3, 30, and 150 mg/kg, respectively. Through analyzing the individual plant growth, photosynthesis, antioxidant capacity, carbohydrate Cd accumulation distribution, and other indicators of sweet potato at different growth periods, the characteristics of sweet potato carbon metabolism in response to Cd stress during the whole growth period were explored. The results showed that T2 and T3 treatments inhibited the vine length, leaf area, stem diameter, and tuberous root growth of sweet potato, while T3 treatment significantly increased the number of sweet potato branches. Under Cd stress, the synthesis of chlorophyll in sweet potato was significantly inhibited, while the activity of the Rubisco enzyme was significantly reduced. As the Cd concentration increased, the function of PS II was also affected. The soluble sugar content showed no significant change in low Cd concentration treatments but decreased significantly under high Cd concentrations; the tuberous root starch content decreased significantly with the increase in Cd concentration. During the whole growth period, the activities of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased significantly in T2 and T3 treatments, while the SOD activity in T1 treatment was significantly lower than that of CK. With the increase in Cd concentration, the Cd contents of various sweet potato organs exhibited increasing trends. The absorbing roots had the highest bioconcentration factor, the tuberous roots had a lower bioconcentration factor and Cd accumulation, and the transfer factor from stem to petiole was the highest. These results showed that sweet potatoes had a high Cd tolerance and a certain restoration potential for Cd-contaminated cultivated land.
Pheochromocytoma related myocardial injury mimic as myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries: a case report
Authors: Zhong Wenhao , Tong Huiyu , Zheng Sulin , Li Wensheng , Mai Linlin , Huang Anqing , Hu Yunzhao , Lu Jianhua , Huang Yuli 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
The symptoms due to the hypersecretion of catecholamines in pheochromocytoma can mimic more than 30 medical disorders. Identification of atypical symptoms related to pheochromocytoma is a challenge for clinicians. In the current case, we report a patient presented with a myocardial injury mimicked myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA), which is rare in pheochromocytoma.
Case presentation:
A 72-year-old male was admitted to the emergency department with a chief complaint of recurrent chest pain, and his 12-leads ECG showed a sinus rhythm with V1-V4 large upright peaked T-wave. The level of cardiac troponin was elevated. Coronary angiography found no evidence of obstructive coronary arteries. Computed tomographic scan, serum normetanephrine, norepinephrine, and metanephrines supported the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma, which was finally documented by histopathology.
Conclusions
When a patient of MINOCA was proposed, pheochromocytomas should not be ignored in the differential diagnosis.