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Assessment the performance of chemical constituents of agro wastes in production safety alternative carbon black filler in rubber composite purpose
Abstract Recently, minimizing petroleum resources as well as safely disposing of agro-wastes are essential for the production process to comply with environmental legislation. Bio-filler as an alternative to non-safety carbon black (CB) from petroleum resources in the production of rubber composites is investigated by many researchers, but unfortunately it leads to deterioration of the properties of rubber composites. To avoid this drawback, different agro-wastes (rice straw, date palm fiber, and reed (Arundo donax L.) with different chemical constituents as precursors of biofillers (biochars) are assessed toward the performance of ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer rubber (EPDM). The role of replacing parts of CB with biochar on the rheological characteristics, physico-mechanical properties, hardness, swelling, and crosslinking density of EPDM composites is studied. The results proved the efficient low replacing ratio of biochar towards increasing the minimum and maximum torque; this indicates a homogeneous filler structure and crosslinking interactions between the components matrix as emphasized from the morphological analysis of EPDM rubber. The reverse trend is noticed on increasing the replacement ratio over 25%, where it deteriorates the tensile strength in comparison to pristine CB. The data demonstrated the most efficient biochar, which is derived from RS. The formulation containing 75% CB and 25% RS-biochar provided EPDM with tensile strength (14.4 MPa), higher than the pure CB (12.45 MPa). Moreover, this optimum formulation provided high crosslinking density, high hardness shore A, and swelling resistance of motor oil and toluene when compared to EPDM with pure carbon black. This promising finding trend is not noticed in the literature on using biochars, which usually caused the deterioration in properties of rubber products.
BANCR-containing extracellular vesicles enhance breast cancer resistance
Experienced inclusion and recognition amongst people with spinal cord injury: A comparative study in Norway, The Netherlands, and Australia
Background The aim of this article is to study inclusion and recognition experienced amongst people with a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) in Norway, The Netherlands, and Australia. This is approached both from the perspectives of an interest in the impact of mobility limitations versus social attitudes, and from a consideration of differences between societies. Methods The data derive from the core questionnaire of International Spinal Cord Injury Community Survey with extended national modules on the attitudes and values of respondents from Norway, The Netherlands, and Australia. The data gathered in 2017–18 include 2,450 participants aged 18 years or older. The data are analysed and presented with descriptive statistics and OLS regression analyses. In order to explore our main questions, we run regression controlling for country effects in addition exploring within country effects. Results Mobility limitations are a substantially weaker predictor of self-perceived inclusion and recognition than experiences of negative attitudes towards disabled people. Stereotypical attitudes and norms in society are shown to have various impacts on inclusion in the three countries. The Norwegian respondents report overall better results on inclusion and recognition than respondents in Australia and The Netherlands, illustrating the importance of national contexts. Conclusions Challenges associated with inclusion, recognition, and respect after SCI need to be defined in a language broader than mobility limitations and stereotypical attitudes towards people with an SCI. The main road to both inclusion and recognition in society is primarily linked to job and educational status, in addition to family and friends. The results are of particular interest as measures to support reintegration into society, including a strengthening of labour market integration programs.
Kinesiology taping length and dynamic balance control in individuals with chronic ankle instability
Direct observation of importin α family member KPNA1 in axonal transport with or without a schizophrenia-related mutation
Kyungok-go for fatigue in patients with long COVID: Double-blind, randomized, multicenter, pilot clinical study protocol
The most common symptom reported by patients after recovery from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is fatigue. However, robust clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of treatments and interventions for fatigue in COVID-19 survivors is lacking. This pilot clinical trial aims to assess the safety and efficacy of Kyungok-go, a herbal preparation targeting fatigue, in patients after recovering from COVID-19. The study will include 100 participants with persistent fatigue for more than 12 weeks after COVID-19 recovery. They will be randomly allocated into two groups: the Kyungok-go group (n = 50) and the placebo group (n = 50). Kyungok-go or placebo will be administered twice daily for 12 weeks, and the participants will be assessed at 4-week intervals. The primary outcome will be the change in the Fatigue Severity Scale score. Secondary outcomes will include cognitive function, physical function, quality of life, depression, sleep quality, medication adherence, and feasibility. This study is the first attempt to investigate the safety and efficacy of Kyungok-go for relieving fatigue related to long COVID. The results are expected to contribute to the establishment of a knowledge base and reveal the potential of herbal medicine prescriptions for managing and recovering from the most common sequelae of COVID-19. Trial registration number: KCT0008789.
Optimization and experimental analysis of multi-path sweet potato transplanter device
Abstract The low accuracy of the tracks is crucial problem in the development of the sweet potato industry. This paper optimizes a previously designed multi-track transplanting device for the multi-track transplanting of potato seedlings. The performed optimization is based on theoretical analysis, DEM–MBD coupling simulation, and field test, allowing to increase the accuracy of potato seedling transplanting. Kinematic analysis of the transplanted robotic arm is conducted to combine the single-factor test with the reference trajectory size characteristics. To study the impacts of the seedling claw length and initial angle on the transplanting trajectory, the following optimal parameter combination is determined: rod length of 0.4 m and initial angle seedling claw of 35°. A many-body kinetic model of transplanting is developed using the DEM–MBD coupled simulation method. Field experiments are then conducted to study the impact of the soil particles on the transplanting mode and position change of potato seedlings. In these experiments, an operation speed of 0.2 m/s and a seedling leakage length of 50 mm are adopted. The obtained results show that the qualified rates of oblique and horizontal transplanting are 96.8% and 96.9%, respectively. This study provides a reference for the development and optimization of sweet potato transplanting machinery.
Dynein light chains 1 and 2 are auxiliary proteins of pH-sensitive Kir4.1 channels
Association between ambient temperature and non-accidental mortality in Guiyang, China: A time-series analysis (2013-2023)
Background As climate change intensifies, ambient temperatures have become a global concern, leading to an increasing number of studies examining the impact of temperature on human health. Extreme weather events, including heatwaves and cold spells, are becoming more frequent and severe. Numerous studies have highlighted the positive correlation between non-optimal ambient temperatures and mortality. Understanding these impacts is crucial for developing targeted public health interventions and accurately predicting the future health burden associated with climate variability. This study aims to estimate the relative risks and mortality burden associated with temperature extremes over the past decade, focusing on the contributions of both heat and cold, as well as mild and extreme temperatures, and identifying vulnerable populations. By doing so, filling a regional research gap in Guiyang. Methods We collected the daily weather and mortality data from 2013 to 2023. Descriptive analysis was conducted to characterize overall weather patterns and mortality trends during the study period. A quasi-Poisson regression with a distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM), incorporating a 21-day lag and controlling for trends, air pollutants, and the day of the week, was applied to estimate the cumulative relative risks of non-accidental mortality due to non-optimal and extreme temperatures. We calculated attributable fractions and attributable numbers for heat and cold (defined as temperatures above and below the daily mean temperature), mild temperatures (defined using cutoffs at the minimum mortality temperature, with mild heat ranging from the minimum mortality temperature to the 97.5th temperature percentile and mild cold ranging from the 2.5th temperature percentile to the minimum mortality temperature) and extreme temperatures (defined as temperatures below the 2.5th temperature percentile for extreme cold and above the 97.5th temperature percentile for extreme heat). Results A total of 140,099 non-accidental deaths were included in the study.Temperature and mortality showed U-shaped associations, except for 0-64 years age group. For extreme low temperatures, the effects appeared in lag 2 to 4 days and lasted for approximately 18 days, peaking on lag day 5, yielding a cumulative relative risks (RRs) of 1.24% (95% CI 1.14% to 1.36%) for non-accidental mortality. For extreme high temperatures, the strongest effect was observed on the same day, with an RR of 1.18%(95% CI 1.03% to 1.35%). The attributable fraction of non-accidental mortality associated with non-optimal temperatures was 9.21% (95% eCI: 5.32% to 12.15%). The mortality burden from heat and cold was 5.55% (95% eCI: 2.04% to 8.59%) and 3.67% (95% eCI: 1.45% to 5.80%), respectively. Mild heat was responsible for the majority of the mortality burden. Conclusion Extreme low temperatures had higher cumulative relative risk and a prolonged effect compared to extreme high temperatures. The attributable fraction associated with non-optimal temperatures was highest for respiratory-related deaths. Mild heat was responsible for the majority of the mortality burden. Additionally, males and the individuals aged 65 years and above were particularly vulnerable populations.
Neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory changes in SOD1-ALS patients receiving tofersen
G protein–coupled estrogen receptor deficiency exacerbates demyelination through microglial ferroptosis
A machine learning computational approach for the mathematical anthrax disease system in animals
Objectives The current research investigations present the numerical solutions of the anthrax disease system in animals by designing a machine learning stochastic procedure. The mathematical anthrax disease system in animals is classified into susceptible, infected, recovered and vaccinated. Method A Runge-Kutta solver is applied to collect the dataset, which decreases the mean square error by dividing into training as 78%, testing 12% and verification 10%. The proposed stochastic computing technique is performed through the logistic sigmoid activation function, and a single hidden layer construction, twenty-seven numbers of neurons, and optimization through the Bayesian regularization for the mathematical anthrax disease system in animals. Finding The designed procedure’s correctness is authenticated through the results overlapping and reducible absolute error, which are calculated around 10-05 to 10-08 for each case of the model. The best training performances are performed as 10-10 to 10-12 of the model. Moreover, the statistical performances in terms of regression coefficient, error histogram, and state transition values enhance the reliability of the proposed stochastic machine learning approach. Novelty The designed scheme is not applied before to get the numerical results of the anthrax disease system in animals.
Integrated network pharmacology, molecular docking, and animal experiments to reveal the potential mechanism of hesperetin on COPD
Abstract Hesperetin (HE), a natural flavonoid exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, holds significant potential in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Nonetheless, the precise mechanisms underlying its effects are yet to be fully elucidated. In this study, we aim to explore the role and potential mechanism of HE in treating COPD using network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental validation. We screened for HE and COPD-related targets from public databases, and then imported potential targets into a STRING database to establish a protein–protein interaction network. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analysis were performed to obtain key signaling pathways. We then predicted the binding interactions between HE and core targets using molecular docking. The animal model of COPD was established through lipopolysaccharide and cigarette smoke induction in mice to observe lung function, inflammatory factors, pathology, and the expression of related proteins. Network pharmacology findings unveiled that HE and COPD shared 105 common targets. MAPKs and NF-κB signaling pathways were selected for further validation. In animal experiment, HE enhanced lung function and histopathological morphology, while reducing inflammation levels. The results of Western blot tests indicated that HE treatment considerably inhibited the expression of MAPKs and NF-κB. HE effectively reduced lung inflammation and improved lung function in mice. This mechanism may be achieved by inhibition of MAPKs and NF-κB signaling pathways.
CCCTC-binding factor N-terminal domain regulates clustered protocadherin gene expression by enhancing cohesin processivity
Understanding the role of family functioning, dietary adherence, and culture on glycemic control among adults with type 2 diabetes: A mediation and moderation analysis
Background Families and cultural contexts can impact dietary adherence and glycemic control of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Yet little is known about these relationships in Africa, where poor dietary adherence and glycemic control are prevalent. To address this gap, this study investigated whether dietary adherence mediates family functioning and glycemic control among T2D adults in Benin, West Africa. We also explored whether cultural identity affected the association between family functioning and dietary adherence. Methods A cross-sectional study of 512 T2D patients from six health centers was conducted to assess: 1) family functioning with the 12-item McMaster Family Assessment Device–General Functioning Subscale (FAD-GF); 2) dietary adherence via the Perceived Dietary Adherence Questionnaire (PDAQ); and 3) cultural identity with the 12-item Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure (MEIM). The three-month glycemic control was determined with Glycated Hemoglobin - HbA1c. Mediation and moderation analyses were conducted using Stata’s structural equation model (SEM). Results Healthy family functioning, good dietary adherence and good glycemic control rates were 56.8%, 33%, and 30.5% respectively. Path analysis showed that healthy family functioning was significantly associated with lower HbA1c levels (-0.34, 95% CI: [-0.72, -0.03]), and there was a significant indirect effect via greater dietary adherence (-0.12, 95% CI: [-0.22, -0.01]). However, cultural identity did not significantly impact the relationship between family functioning and dietary adherence. Conclusions Our study revealed that family functioning, adherence to dietary recommendations, and glycemic control are interconnected in adults with T2D. Interventions should target modifiable factors like dietary adherence and address relevant risk and resilience sources to improve glycemic control in urban African families.
Multidimensional assessment of the spatiotemporal evolution, driving mechanisms, and future predictions of urban heat islands in Jinan, China
Epitomic profiling and functional characteristics of pemphigus vulgaris autoantibody binding to keratinocyte M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor
Association of excessive screen time exposure with ocular changes leading to astigmatism in children
Purpose The purpose of this study was to find the relationship between excessive screen time exposure and the development of astigmatism in children. Methods A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted at tertiary care hospital, Islamabad between June 2023 to May 2024. In total, 431 patients were included in this study after informed written consent. Screen time exposure was assessed through smartphone usage history or parental reports of daily use of smart gadget(s). Tear break-up time was measured using a fluorescein strip, cobalt blue filter on a slit-lamp biomicroscope and a stopwatch. Data was analyzed using univariate and multivariate statistical tests including Spearman’s correlation and regression analyses. Results The study included 431 children (mean age: 6.70 ± 1.80 years; 55% male, 45% female). Mean screen time was 4.54 ± 1.52 hours/day. A positive correlation between screen time and the magnitude of astigmatism was observed (r = 0.33, p < 0.001). Regression analysis showed a significant relationship among screen time and astigmatism (B = 0.177, CI: 0.80-0.25). Tear break- up time (TBUT) showed a significant negative correlation with screen time (r = -0.167, p < 0.001), and reduced TBUT was linked to a higher risk of inflammatory conjunctivitis and lid thickening (B = -0.431, CI: -0.12 to -0.49, p < 0.001). The results highlighted that inflammatory conjunctivitis/lid thickness have three times greater risk of developing high astigmatism (OR = 3.31, p-value < 0.001, CI = 1.91 to 5.73) while the risk of moderate astigmatism in such cases was two times higher (2.12, p-value = 0.004, CI = 1.26-3.56). However, the effect of lid thickness on astigmatism when combining with screen time has a little effect that is not significant (p-value = 0.053). Thus, excessive screen time is an independent risk factor of causing astigmatism in children (p < 0.001). The Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test demonstrated significant improvement in visual acuity after correction (p < 0.001). Conclusion Excessive screen time in children is significantly associated with astigmatism, tear film instability, inflammatory ocular conditions, including conjunctivitis and lid thickening. These findings suggest the need for preventive strategies, such as reducing screen time and encouraging regular eye examinations, to protect children’s ocular health.
Valorization of recycled concrete powder, clay brick powder, and volcanic pumice powder in sustainable geopolymer concrete
Abstract The use of recycled powder as a binder in geopolymer concrete (GPC) represents a promising approach to reducing construction waste and promoting the production of sustainable materials. This study examines the impact of recycled concrete powder (RCP), clay brick powder (CBP), and volcanic pumice powder (VPP) on the mechanical, durability, and thermal properties of GPC with fly ash and slag under water curing. Key mechanical properties, including compressive strength (CS), splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength, were evaluated, while durability was assessed through water absorption, water penetration, and resistance to sulfate and acid attacks. The thermal performance was tested by exposing the samples to elevated temperatures of 200 °C, 400 °C, and 600 °C. Results demonstrated that incorporating 25% RCP enhanced CS by 14.88% at 28 days compared to the control mixture, although higher replacement levels (50% and 75%) led to reduced CS due to increased porosity. Similarly, CBP at 25% substitution resulted in a 21.12% increase in CS, with declines observed at higher replacement levels. Conversely, VPP at 25% substitution decreased CS by 8.68% at 28 days, with further significant reductions at higher levels due to its high porosity. Sulfate resistance testing in a 5% MgSO₄ solution showed minimal mass loss for CBP mixtures (0.3–1.2%) and moderate CS reductions (5.7–29.6%). RCP mixtures exhibited low mass loss (0.3–1.7%) and CS reductions (8.7–15.8%), while VPP mixtures experienced the highest mass losses (1.36–3.4%) and CS reductions (20.5–31.3%). SEM analysis revealed that RCP and CBP mixtures exhibited denser microstructures, which contributed to their enhanced durability and thermal stability. Generally, optimizing the replacement levels of RCP, CBP, and VPP improves the durability, pore structure, and mechanical performance of GPC. Among the materials, CBP demonstrated superior resistance in acidic environments, while RCP excelled in thermal stability, demonstrating their potential for producing sustainable and durable geopolymer concrete.