bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Physical Activity and Cup Orientation on Metal Ion Release and Oxidative Stress in Metal-on-Metal and Ceramic-on-Metal Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Gómez-Álvarez Jorge , Miranda Ignacio , Álvarez-Llanas Alejandro , Lisón Juan F. , Bosch-Morell Francisco , Doménech Julio
Published: January 2024

Background: Metal-on-metal (M-M) total hip arthroplasty (THA) has shown adverse reactions to metal debris, abnormal soft-tissue reactions, and high blood metal ion levels. This study aims to: (1) assess whether the toxicity of high levels of ions is related to altered oxidative stress and (2) evaluate tribological factors related to increased blood levels of chromium (Cr) and cobalt (Co) ions. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical descriptive study was conducted on 75 patients. A total of 25 underwent M-M THA, 25 ceramic-on-metal (C-M) THA, and 25 were on the THA waiting list. Ion metallic levels in blood, oxidative stress, physical activity, and implant position were compared. Results: In the M-M group, Co and Cr levels were significantly higher than those found in the C-M group and the control group (p < 0.01). We found no differences in terms of oxidative stress between the groups. Also, we did not find a correlation between metal blood levels and oxidative stress indicators, the physical activity of the patients or the position of the implants between groups. Conclusions: The use of M-M bearing surfaces in THA raises the levels of metals in the blood without modifying oxidative stress regardless of the physical activity levels of the patients. Therefore, although patients with M-M bearings require close monitoring, it does not seem necessary to recommend the restriction of physical activity in patients with M-M or C-M arthroplasties.
Analysis of Course of Changes in Blood Lactate Concentration in Response to Graded Exercise Test and Modified Wingate Test in Adolescent Road Cyclists
Authors: Zając Bartosz
Published: January 2024

Background: The purpose of this study was to analyze the course of changes in the blood lactate (BL) concentration in response to the graded exercise test (GXT) and the modified Wingate test (MWT). Methods: This study involved 23 male highly trained road cyclists (age: 16.2 ± 1.1 years; experience: 5.0 ± 2.1 years; VO2max 59.0 ± 3.5 mL × kg−1 × min−1). The analysis of BL concentration was conducted using an enzymatic–amperometric electrochemical technique. Results: Our study provided the following information: (i) peak BL concentration in response to GXT (12.86 ± 2.32 mmol × L−1) and MWT (12.85 ± 1.47 mmol × L−1) is expected around the third minute after the completion of the trial; (ii) 60 min is not a sufficient period for BL concentration to return to resting values after GXT; (iii) post-GXT BL removal during the 60 min period is unsteady (3–20 min: −2.6 ± −0.6% × min−1; 20–60 min: −1.6 ± −0.3% × min−1; p-value for comparison < 0.01), whereas post-MWT BL removal during the 12 min period appears to be constant (3–6 min: −2.4 ± −5.6% × min−1, 6–9 min: −2.6 ± −1.8 % × min−1; 9–12 min: −3.1 ± −2.1 % × min−1; p-value for all comparisons < 0.01). Conclusions: When aiming to obtain valuable data regarding the course of changes in BL concentration during the post-exertion period, it is essential to consider the number of measurements and the time points in sample collection for analysis.
Measurement-Invariant Fluid Anti-Flynn Effects in Population—Representative German Student Samples (2012–2022)
Authors: Oberleiter Sandra , Patzl Sabine , Fries Jonathan , Diedrich Jennifer , Voracek Martin , Pietschnig Jakob
Published: January 2024

Generational IQ test scores in the general population were observed to increase over time (i.e., the Flynn effect) across most of the 1900s. However, according to more recent reports, Flynn effect patterns have seemingly become less consistent. So far, most available evidence on this phenomenon has been categorized by drawing on the classic fluid vs. crystallized intelligence taxonomy. However, recent evidence suggests that subdomain-specific trajectories of IQ change may well be more complex. Here, we present evidence for cross-temporal changes in measurement-invariant figural reasoning tasks in three large-scale, population-representative samples of German secondary school students (total N = 19,474). Analyses revealed a consistent pattern of significant and meaningful declines in performance from 2012 to 2022. Results indicate a decrease in figural reasoning of 4.68 to 5.17 IQ points per decade (corresponding to small-to-medium effects, Cohen ds from 0.34 to 0.38). These findings may be interpreted as tentative evidence for a decreasing strength of the positive manifold of intelligence as a potential cause of the increasing number of recent reports about inconsistent IQ change trajectories.
Phytoplankton Dynamics and Biogeochemistry: Model Studies
Authors: Silkin Vladimir , Abakumov Alexander , Esin Nikolay , Pautova Larisa , Lifanchuk Anna , Fedorov Alexey
Published: January 2024

The seasonal dynamics of the NE Black Sea phytoplankton follow the following pattern: small diatoms (spring) → coccolithophorid Emiliania huxleyi (late spring–early summer) → large diatoms (summer). Our hypothesis states that nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations regulate the seasonal phytoplankton dynamics. A minimum number of parameters is enough to understand the mechanisms of dominant species change. Based on the concept of intracellular regulation, the following parameters were evaluated: the minimum nitrogen and phosphorus quotas; half-saturation constants for nitrogen and phosphorus uptake; the maximum specific growth rate of the dominant phytoplankton species. Computational experiments on the model show the following: (1) in spring, a species with a high maximum specific growth rate becomes dominant; (2) in late spring and early summer, a species with a low minimum nitrogen quota and a low half-saturation constant for nitrogen uptake is observed; (3) in summer, a low minimum phosphorus quota and a low half-saturation constant for phosphorus uptake allow the species to become dominant.
A Panel of Potential Serum Markers Related to Angiogenesis, Antioxidant Defense and Hypoxia for Differentiating Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinomas from Actinic Keratoses
Authors: Georgescu Simona Roxana , Tocut Sandra Milena , Matei Clara , Ene Corina Daniela , Nicolae Ilinca , Tampa Mircea
Published: January 2024

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) arising from the malignant proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes is the second most common skin cancer. Actinic keratosis (AK), which is considered cSCC in situ, may progress into invasive tumors. Currently, there are no serum markers that can differentiate cSCC from AK. The aim of our study was to assess angiogenesis and oxidative stress in patients with cSCC and patients with AK and find reliable serum markers useful in the diagnosis of cSCC. We have determined the serum levels of a group of proangiogenic factors (MMP-2, MMP-9, VEGF, FGF2), the total antioxidative status/capacity (TAS/TAC), ImAnOx, a marker of oxidative stress, and HIF-1 alpha, an indicator of hypoxia. We have identified higher serum levels of MMP-2. MMP-9, VEGF, FGF2 and HIF-1 alpha and lower levels of ImAnOx in cSCC patients compared to AK patients and controls. There were no statistically significant differences between AK patients and controls. We have found positive correlations between proangiogenic markers and HIF-1 alpha and negative correlations between proangiogenic markers and ImAnOx. Our results suggest that MMP-2, MMP-9, VEGF, FGF2, ImAnOx and HIF-1 may be promising markers for differentiating AK from cSCC, and there is a link between angiogenesis, oxidative stress and hypoxia.
Severe Perinatal Presentations of Günther’s Disease: Series of 20 Cases and Perspectives
Authors: Goudet Claire , Ged Cécile , Petit Audrey , Desage Chloe , Mahe Perrine , Salhi Aicha , Harzallah Ines , Blouin Jean-Marc , Mercie Patrick , Schmitt Caroline , Poli Antoine , Gouya Laurent , Barlogis Vincent , Richard Emmanuel
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: Congenital erythropoietic porphyria (CEP), named Günther’s disease, is a rare recessive type of porphyria, resulting from deficient uroporphyrinogen III synthase (UROS), the fourth enzyme of heme biosynthesis. The phenotype ranges from extremely severe perinatal onset, with life-threatening hemolytic anaemia, to mild or moderate cutaneous involvement in late-onset forms. This work reviewed the perinatal CEP cases recorded in France in order to analyse their various presentations and evolution. (2) Methods: Clinical and biological data were retrospectively collected through medical and published records. (3) Results: Twenty CEP cases, who presented with severe manifestations during perinatal period, were classified according to the main course of the disease: antenatal features, acute neonatal distress and postnatal diagnosis. Antenatal symptoms (seven patients) were mainly hydrops fetalis, hepatosplenomegaly, anemia, and malformations. Six of them died prematurely. Five babies showed acute neonatal distress, associated with severe anemia, thrombocytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly, liver dysfunction, and marked photosensitivity leading to diagnosis. The only two neonates who survived underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Common features in post-natal diagnosis (eight patients) included hemolytic anemia, splenomegaly, skin sensitivity, and discoloured teeth and urine. All patients underwent HSCT, with success for six of them, but with fatal complications in two patients. The frequency of the missense variant named C73R is striking in antenatal and neonatal presentations, with 9/12 and 7/8 independent alleles, respectively. (4) Conclusions: The most recent cases in this series are remarkable, as they had a less fatal outcome than expected. Regular transfusions from the intrauterine period and early access to HSCT are the main objectives.
Evolution of Indocyanine Green Fluorescence in Breast and Axilla Surgery: An Australasian Experience
Authors: Nguyen Chu Luan , Dayaratna Nirmal , Graham Susannah , Azimi Farhad , Mak Cindy , Pulitano Carlo , Warrier Sanjay
Published: January 2024

The evolution of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence in breast and axilla surgery from an Australasian perspective is discussed in this narrative review with a focus on breast cancer and reconstruction surgery. The authors have nearly a decade of experience with ICG in a high-volume institution, which has resulted in publications and ongoing future research evaluating its use for predicting mastectomy skin flap perfusion for reconstruction, lymphatic mapping for sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy, and axillary reverse mapping (ARM) for prevention of lymphoedema. In the authors’ experience, routine use of ICG angiography during breast reconstruction postmastectomy was demonstrated to be cost-effective for the reduction of ischemic complications in the Australian setting. A novel tracer combination, ICG–technetium-99m offered a safe and effective substitute to the “gold standard” dual tracer for SLN biopsy, although greater costs were associated with ICG. An ongoing trial will evaluate ARM node identification using ICG fluorescence during axillary lymph node dissection and potential predictive factors of ARM node involvement. These data add to the growing literature on ICG and allow future research to build on this to improve understanding of the potential benefits of fluorescence-guided surgery in breast cancer and reconstruction surgery.
A Discussion on Life Consciousness in Du Fu’s Poems
Authors: Liu Shuchu
Published: January 2024

Respecting life and protecting life are the core values of Chinese culture. As the greatest poet nurtured by Chinese culture, Du Fu showed a distinct consciousness of life in his poems. With the passage of time and the changes in his physical body, Du Fu became sensitively aware of the existence of life. Government service was the main way to realize the value of life for scholars of Tang, and this way was frustrated by reality for a long time, particularly for the poet Du Fu, who faced the crisis of settling his life. Although Du Fu wanted to find a place to settle his life in the other dimensions of the human world, in the real and imaginary drunken world and the natural world, he could not overcome the frustration concerning the relationship between the ruler and the minister, and he often felt the pain of nowhere to settle his life and the insignificance of life when its meaning becomes absent.
Early Stages of Metal Corrosion in Coastal Archaeological Sites: Effects of Chemical Composition in Silver and Copper Alloys
Authors: Boccaccini Francesca , Riccucci Cristina , Messina Elena , Pascucci Marianna , Bosi Ferdinando , Aldega Luca , Ciccola Alessandro , Postorino Paolo , Favero Gabriele , Ingo Gabriel Maria , Di Carlo Gabriella
Published: January 2024

In this study, metal disks with different chemical composition (two Ag-based alloys and three Cu-based alloys) were buried in the soil of coastal archaeological sites for a period of 15 years. The aim was to naturally induce the growth of corrosion patinas to obtain a deeper insight into the role of alloying elements in the formation of the patinas and into the degradation mechanisms occurring in the very early stages of burial. To reach the aim, the morphological, compositional and structural features of the patinas grown over 15 years were extensively characterized by optical microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectrometry, X-ray diffraction and micro-Raman spectroscopy. Results showed that the Cu amount in Ag-based alloys strongly affected the final appearance, as well as the composition and structure of the patinas. Corrosion mechanisms typical of archaeological finds, such as the selective dissolution of Cu, Pb and Zn and internal oxidation of Sn, occurred in the Cu-based alloys, even if areas enriched in Zn and Pb compounds were also detected and attributed to an early stage of degradation. In addition, some unusual and rare compounds were detected in the patinas developed on the Cu-based disks.
Enhancing Reliability and Safety in Industrial Applications: Assessing the Applicability of Energy b-Value to Composites
Authors: Jung Doyun , Lee Jeonghan
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the fracture behavior of glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) under various loading conditions using acoustic emission (AE) testing. Using fracture tests and time series analysis of AE signals, parameters such as b-value, improved b-value (Ib-value), and energy b-value (be-value) were examined to understand crack initiation, growth, and structural failure. The stress–strain curve revealed distinct responses during tensile and step loading, and time series analysis highlighted variations in amplitude, AE energy, and Kaiser and Felicity effects. Under tensile loading, the Ib-value exhibited a linear decrease, while step loading introduced complexities, including the Felicity effect. The be-value, incorporating energy considerations, fluctuated, providing insights into micro-cracks and macro-cracks. Statistical analysis demonstrated a consistent decrease in the be-value, emphasizing its potential for long-term monitoring. This study provides a comprehensive technique for assessing composite material fracture behavior, enhancing understanding for critical applications in hydrogen storage vessels and pressure pipes as well as advancing reliability and safety in industrial sectors.
Effect of Glycine on the Wet Carbonation of Steel Slag Used as a Cementitious Material
Authors: Cao Peiyu , Zhao Xin , Wang Yutong , Zhang Zeyu , Liu Jiaxiang
Published: January 2024

The wet carbonation process of steel slag (SS) is envisaged to be an effective way to sequestrate CO2 and improve the properties of SS as a supplementary cementitious material. However, the carbonation process still struggles with having a low carbonation efficiency. This paper studied the effect of glycine on the accelerated carbonation of SS. The phase composition change of carbonated SS was analyzed via XRD, FT-IR, and TG–DTG. The carbonation process of SS is facilitated by the assistance of glycine, with which the carbonation degree is increased. After 60 min of carbonation, SS with glycine obtained a CO2 sequestration rate of 9.42%. Meanwhile, the carbonation reaction could decrease the content of free calcium oxide in SS. This significantly improves the soundness of SS–cement cementitious material, and the compressive strength of cementitious materials that contain carbonated SS with glycine is improved. Additionally, the cycling performance of glycine in the successive wet carbonation process of SS was investigated. Multicycle experiments via solvent recovery demonstrated that although the promotion effect of glycine was reduced after each cycle, compared with the SS–water system, the carbonation process could still be facilitated, demonstrating that successive wet carbonation via solvent recovery has considerable potential. Herein, we provide a new idea to facilitate the wet carbonation process of SS and improve the properties of SS–cement cementitious material.
Traffic Sign Detection and Recognition Using YOLO Object Detection Algorithm: A Systematic Review
Authors: Flores-Calero Marco , Astudillo César A. , Guevara Diego , Maza Jessica , Lita Bryan S. , Defaz Bryan , Ante Juan S. , Zabala-Blanco David , Armingol Moreno José María
Published: January 2024

Context: YOLO (You Look Only Once) is an algorithm based on deep neural networks with real-time object detection capabilities. This state-of-the-art technology is widely available, mainly due to its speed and precision. Since its conception, YOLO has been applied to detect and recognize traffic signs, pedestrians, traffic lights, vehicles, and so on. Objective: The goal of this research is to systematically analyze the YOLO object detection algorithm, applied to traffic sign detection and recognition systems, from five relevant aspects of this technology: applications, datasets, metrics, hardware, and challenges. Method: This study performs a systematic literature review (SLR) of studies on traffic sign detection and recognition using YOLO published in the years 2016–2022. Results: The search found 115 primary studies relevant to the goal of this research. After analyzing these investigations, the following relevant results were obtained. The most common applications of YOLO in this field are vehicular security and intelligent and autonomous vehicles. The majority of the sign datasets used to train, test, and validate YOLO-based systems are publicly available, with an emphasis on datasets from Germany and China. It has also been discovered that most works present sophisticated detection, classification, and processing speed metrics for traffic sign detection and recognition systems by using the different versions of YOLO. In addition, the most popular desktop data processing hardwares are Nvidia RTX 2080 and Titan Tesla V100 and, in the case of embedded or mobile GPU platforms, Jetson Xavier NX. Finally, seven relevant challenges that these systems face when operating in real road conditions have been identified. With this in mind, research has been reclassified to address these challenges in each case. Conclusions: This SLR is the most relevant and current work in the field of technology development applied to the detection and recognition of traffic signs using YOLO. In addition, insights are provided about future work that could be conducted to improve the field.
Evolutionary Approach for DISCO Profit Maximization by Optimal Planning of Distributed Generators and Energy Storage Systems in Active Distribution Networks
Authors: Mahfoud Rabea Jamil , Alkayem Nizar Faisal , Fernandez-Rodriguez Emmanuel , Zheng Yuan , Sun Yonghui , Zhang Shida , Zhang Yuquan
Published: January 2024

Distribution companies (DISCOs) aim to maximize their annual profits by performing the optimal planning of distributed generators (DGs) or energy storage systems (ESSs) in the deregulated electricity markets. Some previous studies have focused on the simultaneous planning of DGs and ESSs for DISCO profit maximization but have rarely considered the reactive powers of DGs and ESSs. In addition, the optimization methods used for solving this problem are either traditional or outdated, which may not yield superior results. To address these issues, this paper simultaneously performs the optimal planning of DGs and ESSs in distribution networks for DISCO profit maximization. The utilized model not only takes into account the revenues of trading active and reactive powers but also addresses the active and reactive powers of DGs and ESSs. To solve the optimization problem, a new hybrid evolutionary algorithm (EA) called the oppositional social engineering differential evolution with Lévy flights (OSEDE/LFs) is proposed. The OSEDE/LFs is applied to optimize the planning model using the 30-Bus and IEEE 69-Bus networks as test systems. The results of the two case studies are compared with several other EAs. The results confirm the significance of the planning model in achieving higher profits and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach when compared with other EAs.
Miniaturization of CRISPR/Cas12-Based DNA Sensor Array by Non-Contact Printing
Authors: Shigemori Hiroki , Fujita Satoshi , Tamiya Eiichi , Nagai Hidenori
Published: January 2024

DNA microarrays have been applied for comprehensive genotyping, but remain a drawback in complicated operations. As a solution, we previously reported the solid-phase collateral cleavage (SPCC) system based on the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/CRISPR-associated protein 12 (CRISPR/Cas12). Surface-immobilized Cas12-CRISPR RNA (crRNA) can directly hybridize target double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and subsequently produce a signal via the cleavage of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) reporter immobilized on the same spot. Therefore, SPCC-based multiplex dsDNA detection can be performed easily. This study reports the miniaturization of SPCC-based spots patterned by a non-contact printer and its performance in comprehensive genotyping on a massively accumulated array. Initially, printing, immobilization, and washing processes of Cas12–crRNA were established to fabricate the non-contact-patterned SPCC-based sensor array. A target dsDNA concentration response was obtained based on the developed sensor array, even with a spot diameter of 0.64 ± 0.05 mm. Also, the limit of detection was 572 pM, 531 pM, and 3.04 nM with 40, 20, and 10 nL-printing of Cas12–crRNA, respectively. Furthermore, the sensor array specifically detected three dsDNA sequences in one-pot multiplexing; therefore, the feasibility of comprehensive genotyping was confirmed. These results demonstrate that our technology can be miniaturized as a CRISPR/Cas12-based microarray by using non-contact printing. In the future, the non-contact-patterned SPCC-based sensor array can be applied as an alternative tool to DNA microarrays.
A Comparative Analysis of Molecular Biological Methods for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 and Testing the In Vitro Infectivity of the Virus
Authors: Shishkova Kalina , Sirakova Bilyana , Shishkov Stoyan , Stoilova Eliya , Mladenov Hristiyan , Sirakov Ivo
Published: January 2024

The virus discovered in 2019 in the city of Wuhan, China, which was later identified as SARS-CoV-2 and which spread to the level of a pandemic, put diagnostic methods to the test. Early in the pandemic, we developed a nested PCR assay for the detection of SARS-CoV-2, which we validated and applied to detect the virus in feline samples. The present study describes the application of the nested PCR test in parallel with LAMP for the detection of the virus in 427 nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal human samples taken between October 2020 and January 2022. Of the swabs tested, there were 43 positives, accounting for 10.1% of all samples tested, with the negatives numbering 382, i.e., 89.5%, and there were 2 (0.4%) invalid ones. The nPCR results confirmed those obtained by using LAMP, with results concordant in both methods. Nasal swabs tested using nPCR confirmed the results of oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal swab samples tested using LAMP and nPCR. The focus of the discussion is on the two techniques: the actual practical application of the laboratory-developed assays and the diagnostic value of nasal samples. The nPCR used is a reliable and sensitive technique for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, and nasal swab samples. However, it has some disadvantages related to the duration of the entire process, as well as a risk of contamination. Experiments were performed to demonstrate the infectivity of the virus from the positive isolates in vitro. A discrepancy was reported between direct and indirect methods of testing the virus and accounting for its ability to cause infection in vitro.
The Effect of Bismuth and Tin on Methane and Acetate Production in a Microbial Electrosynthesis Cell Fed with Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Gharbi Rihab , Omanovic Sasha , Hrapovic Sabahudin , Nwanebu Emmanuel , Tartakovsky Boris
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the impacts of bismuth and tin on the production of CH4 and volatile fatty acids in a microbial electrosynthesis cell with a continuous CO2 supply. First, the impact of several transition metal ions (Ni2+, Fe2+, Cu2+, Sn2+, Mn2+, MoO42−, and Bi3+) on hydrogenotrophic and acetoclastic methanogenic microbial activity was evaluated in a series of batch bottle tests incubated with anaerobic sludge and a pre-defined concentration of dissolved transition metals. While Cu is considered a promising catalyst for the electrocatalytic conversion of CO2 to short chain fatty acids such as acetate, its presence as a Cu2+ ion was demonstrated to significantly inhibit the microbial production of CH4 and acetate. At the same time, CH4 production increased in the presence of Bi3+ (0.1 g L−1) and remained unchanged at the same concentration of Sn2+. Since Sn is of interest due to its catalytic properties in the electrochemical CO2 conversion, Bi and Sn were added to the cathode compartment of a laboratory-scale microbial electrosynthesis cell (MESC) to achieve an initial concentration of 0.1 g L−1. While an initial increase in CH4 (and acetate for Sn2+) production was observed after the first injection of the metal ions, after the second injection, CH4 production declined. Acetate accumulation was indicative of the reduced activity of acetoclastic methanogens, likely due to the high partial pressure of H2. The modification of a carbon-felt electrode by the electrodeposition of Sn metal on its surface prior to cathode inoculation with anaerobic sludge showed a doubling of CH4 production in the MESC and a lower concentration of acetate, while the electrodeposition of Bi resulted in a decreased CH4 production.
Accurate Quantum States for a 2D-Dipole
Authors: Vrinceanu Daniel
Published: January 2024

Edge dislocations are crucial in understanding both mechanical and electrical transport in solid and are modeled as line distributions of dipole moments. The calculation of the electronic spectrum for the two dimensional dipole, represented by the potential energy V(r,θ)=pcosθ/r, has been the topic of several studies that show significant difficulties in obtaining accurate results. In this work, we demonstrate that the source of these difficulties is a logarithmic contribution to the behavior of the wave function at the origin that was neglected by previous authors. By taking into account this non-analytic deviation of the solution of Schrödinger’s equation, superior results, with the expected rate of convergence, are obtained. This goal is accomplished by “adapting” general algorithms for solving partial derivative differential equations to include the desired asymptotic behavior. We illustrate this principle for the variational principle and finite difference methods. Accurate energies and wave functions are obtained not only for the ground state but also for the first eleven excited states and are useful for designing nanoelectronic devices. This paper demonstrates that augmentary knowledge about analytic properties of the solutions leads to the improved convergence and stability of numerical methods.
Nutritional Biomarkers for the Prediction of Response to Anti-TNF-α Therapy in Crohn’s Disease: New Tools for New Approaches
Authors: Rizzello Fernando , Saracino Ilaria Maria , Gionchetti Paolo , Valerii Maria Chiara , Ricci Chiara , Imbesi Veronica , Filippone Eleonora , Bellocchio Irene , Dussias Nikolas Konstantine , Dervieux Thierry , Spisni Enzo
Published: January 2024

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic disorder of the digestive tract characterized by an uncontrolled immune-mediated inflammatory response in genetically predisposed individuals exposed to environmental risk factors. Although diet has been identified as one of the major environmental risk factors, the role of nutrients in the clinical management of CD patients has not yet been fully investigated. In this prospective observational study, fifty-four patients diagnosed with active Crohn’s disease and undergoing anti-TNF-α biological therapy were enrolled and subjected to nutrient intake analysis through a daily food diary. Their nutrient intake and blood values were analyzed before and after 6 months of biological therapy. After 6 months of anti-TNF-α, four patients dropped out of the study, leaving 29 patients in clinical remission and 21 still with active disease that remained the same. The aim of this study was to identify nutrients whose intake or blood values may be associated with patients’ responses to biological therapy. In the diet, patients remaining with active CD showed very similar nutrient dietary intake compared to patients achieving remission except for a trend for lower starting zinc intake, below the reference value. In the blood, instead, patients who did not respond to biological therapy showed significantly lower plasma values of iron and taurine before starting biological anti-TNF-α treatment.
Antibiotics against Pseudomonas aeruginosa on Human Skin Cell Lines: Determination of the Highest Non-Cytotoxic Concentrations with Antibiofilm Capacity for Wound Healing Strategies
Authors: Quiñones-Vico María I. , Fernández-González Ana , Ubago-Rodríguez Ana , Moll Kirsten , Norrby-Teglund Anna , Svensson Mattias , Gutiérrez-Fernández José , Torres Jesús M. , Arias-Santiago Salvador
Published: January 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common microorganisms causing infections of severe skin wounds. Antibiotic or antiseptic treatments are crucial to prevent and curb these infections. Antiseptics have been reported to be cytotoxic to skin cells and few studies evaluate the impact of commonly used antibiotics. This study evaluates how clinical antibiotics affect skin cells’ viability, proliferation, migration, and cytokine secretion and defines the highest non-cytotoxic concentrations that maintain antibacterial activity. Cell proliferation, viability, and migration were evaluated on cell monolayers. Cytokines related to the wound healing process were determined. The minimum inhibitory concentrations and the impact on bacterial biofilm were assessed. Results showed that 0.02 mg/mL ciprofloxacin and 1 mg/mL meropenem are the highest non-cytotoxic concentrations for fibroblasts and keratinocytes while 1.25 mg/mL amikacin and 0.034 mg/mL colistin do not affect fibroblasts’ viability and cytokine secretion but have an impact on keratinocytes. These concentrations are above the minimum inhibitory concentration but only amikacin could eradicate the biofilm. For the other antibiotics, cytotoxic concentrations are needed to eradicate the biofilm. Combinations with colistin at non-cytotoxic concentrations effectively eliminate the biofilm. These results provide information about the concentrations required when administering topical antibiotic treatments on skin lesions, and how these antibiotics affect wound management therapies. This study set the basis for the development of novel antibacterial wound healing strategies such as antibiotic artificial skin substitutes.
Potentially Harmful Excipients: State of the Art for Oral Liquid Forms Used in Neonatology and Pediatrics Units
Authors: Bobillot Marianne , Delannoy Violaine , Trouillard Alexandre , Kinowski Jean Marie , Sanchez-Ballester Noelia Maria , Soulairol Ian
Published: January 2024

The pediatric population exhibits an important age-dependent heterogeneity in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics parameters, resulting in differences in drug efficacy and toxicity compared to the adult population, particularly for neonates. Toxicity and efficacy divergences have been studied for active molecules, but the impact on the pharmacological parameters of excipients remains less well known. To fill this lack of knowledge, several initiatives have been started to gather information on the specific toxicity of excipients, such as the KIDS list or the STEP database. In order to contribute to this much-needed action, in this work, a compilation of the 219 formulations of oral liquid forms prescribed in pediatrics and neonatology units was established based on the summary of product characteristics. Then, for excipients found in more than 10% of the analyzed formulations, a review of their toxicity data was carried out using the STEP database. Finally, for a selection of 10 frequently used liquid forms, the amounts of excipients administered daily were calculated based on the recommended posology in the Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC) and compared with the recommended daily limits proposed by the European Medicine Agency. Pediatrics-adapted formulations are still rare, and it is not always possible to find safe alternatives to drugs containing excipients of interest.
Amplified Solidarity with Future Generations
Authors: Gómez-Franco Irene
Published: January 2024

A recent trend in bioethics has highlighted the decisive role that solidarity plays in global health. However, given the impact and extent of the effects of climate change, which reach beyond present generations, it is important to consider whether this concept can be applied intergenerationally. Does it make sense to talk about solidarity with future generations? The objective of this article is to explore ‘amplified solidarity’, a new concept of solidarity that explains our obligations towards the health and quality of life of future generations. The analysis of this concept is structured as follows: I first establish the moral relevance of future people and then investigate the traits of amplified solidarity, its challenges, and its relationship with other key principles. I propose that amplified solidarity needs both a critical imagination to be projected towards the future and an institutional framework to correct health injustices across an intergenerational timescale. Solidarity forms a potent triangular constellation with responsibility and justice to fight against global and intergenerational injustices.
A Comprehensive Review on Defects-Induced Voltage Losses and Strategies toward Highly Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Abbas Mazhar , Xu Xiaowei , Rauf Muhammad , Kyaw Aung Ko Ko
Published: January 2024

The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of single-junction perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has reached 26.1% in small-scale devices. However, defects at the bulk, surface, grain boundaries, and interfaces act as non-radiative recombination centers for photogenerated electron-hole pairs, limiting the open-circuit voltage and PCE below the Shockley–Queisser limit. These defect states also induce ion migration towards interfaces and contribute to intrinsic instability in PSCs, reducing the quasi-Fermi level splitting and causing anomalous hysteresis in the device. The influence of defects becomes more prominent in large-area devices, demonstrating much lower PCE than the lab-scale devices. Therefore, commercializing PSCs faces a big challenge in terms of rapid decline in working performance due to these intrinsic structural defects. This paper provides a comprehensive review of recent advances in understanding the nature and the classification of defects, their impact on voltage losses, device parameters, intrinsic stability, and defect quantification and characterization techniques. Novel defect passivation techniques such as compositional engineering, additive engineering, post-treatments, dimensionality engineering, and interlayer engineering are also reviewed, along with the improvements in PCE and stability based on these techniques for both small-area devices and large-area roll-to-roll coated devices.
Improvement of Efficiency in 976 nm Fiber Amplifier by Spectral Filtering in Yb-Doped Fiber with Absorbing Rods Embedded in the Cladding
Authors: Aleshkina Svetlana S. , Davydov Danila A. , Velmiskin Vladimir V. , Yashkov Mikhail V. , Umnikov Andrey A. , Alyshev Sergey V. , Iskhakova Liudmila D. , Bubnov Mikhail M. , Lipatov Denis S. , Likhachev Mikhail E.
Published: January 2024

A novel Yb-doped fiber design for improved lasing near 976 nm based on spectral filtering of the amplified spontaneous emission near 1030 nm was realized and investigated. A very sharp short-pass filter was implemented by adding appropriately chosen high-index absorbing rods into the silica cladding. In this case, the resonant interaction of the core mode with the high-index rod mode could be controlled by fiber bending, which allows for the precise adjustment of the stop-band position. It was shown that the utilization of Sm-doped absorbing rods allows one to achieve very high absorption of emission at unwanted wavelengths, but it also adds background losses for the pump near 915 nm and for the signal at 976 nm. Despite this fact, the improvement of efficiency in the 976 nm fiber amplifier, after shifting the stop-band to 1000 nm, was clearly demonstrated. Based on theoretical calculations, it was shown that, after optimizing the fiber parameters, a further twofold improvement in efficiency was possible despite the excess losses at the pump and signal wavelengths.
Global Sensitivity Analysis of the Advanced ORYZA-N Model with Different Rice Types and Irrigation Regimes
Authors: Gao Ya , Sun Chen , Ramos Tiago B. , Tan Junwei , Oliveira Ana R. , Huang Quanzhong , Huang Guanhua , Xu Xu
Published: January 2024

Identifying important parameters in crop models is critical for model application. This study conducted a sensitivity analysis of 23 selected parameters of the advanced rice model ORYZA-N using the Extended FAST method. The sensitivity analysis was applied for three rice types (single-season rice in cold regions and double-season rice (early rice and late rice) in subtropical regions) and two irrigation regimes (traditional flood irrigation (TFI) and shallow–wet irrigation (SWI)). This study analyzed the parameter sensitivity of six crop growth outputs at four developmental stages and yields. Furthermore, we compared the variation in parameter sensitivity on model outputs between TFI and SWI scenarios for single-season rice, early rice, and late rice. Results indicated that parameters RGRLMX, FRPAR, and FLV0.5 significantly affected all model outputs and varied over developmental stages. Water stress in paddy fields caused by water-saving irrigation had more pronounced effects on single-season rice than on double-season rice.
Biogas Slurry Significantly Improved Degraded Farmland Soil Quality and Promoted Capsicum spp. Production
Authors: Wang Zichen , Sanusi Isaac A. , Wang Jidong , Ye Xiaomei , Kana Evariste Gueguim , Olaniran Ademola O.
Published: January 2024

This study reports on the effects of pretreated biogas slurry on degraded farm soil properties, microflora and the production of Capsicum spp. The responses of soil properties, microorganisms and Capsicum spp. production to biogas slurry pretreated soil were determined. The biogas slurry pretreatment of degraded soil increases the total nitrogen (0.15–0.32 g/kg), total phosphorus (0.13–0.75 g/kg), available phosphorus (102.62–190.68 mg/kg), available potassium (78.94–140.31 mg/kg), organic carbon content (0.67–3.32 g/kg) and pH value of the soil, while the population, diversity and distribution of soil bacteria and fungi were significantly affected. Interestingly, soil ammonium nitrogen, soil pH and soil nitrate nitrogen were highly correlated with the population of bacteria and fungi present in the pretreated soil. The soil with biogas slurry pretreatment of 495 m3/hm2 favored the seedling survival rate, flowering rate and fruit-bearing rate of Capsicum spp. and significantly reduced the rate of rigid seedlings. In this study, the application of 495 m3/hm2 biogas slurry to pretreat degraded soil has achieved the multiple goals of biogas slurry valorization, soil biofertilization and preventing and controlling plant diseases caused by soil-borne pathogenic microorganisms. These findings are of significant importance for the safe and environmentally friendly application of biogas slurry for soil pretreatment.
One-Dimensional Numerical Simulation on Removal of CO2 Hydrate Blockage around Wellbore by N2 Injection
Authors: Liao Tao , Yuan Liang , Li Wei , Kan Jingyu , Luo Wei , Xiong Xiaoqin , Li Nan
Published: January 2024

CO2 sequestration in sediments as solid hydrate is considered a potential way to capture and store anthropogenic CO2. When CO2 hydrate is formed in front of CO2 migration, the injection channel will be blocked, and the removal of hydrate blockage becomes the first problem that must be faced. This work proposed an N2 injection method to remove CO2 hydrate blockage. Based on numerical simulation, a study was conducted using TOUGH+MIXHYD v.1.0 to confirm the feasibility of N2 injection and compare it to depressurization. The spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of pressure, temperature, hydrate saturation, and gas saturation were investigated. Under the combined effects of temperature, pressure, and gas composition, secondary CO2-N2 hydrate can form far from the injection point, causing an increase in local temperature and hydrate saturation. The rate of CO2 hydrate dissociation using direct depressurization is significantly slower compared to N2 injection methods. As the pressure of N2 injection increases, the rate of CO2 hydrate dissociation notably accelerates, which does not show a significant increase with increasing injection temperature. This work introduced a novel approach to addressing the issue of CO2 hydrate blockage, which holds prominent significance for the advancement of hydrate-based CO2 geological sequestration.
Why Do They Not Do More? Analyzing Peacebuilding Actions of Religious Leaders during and after Violent Conflicts
Authors: Odak Stipe
Published: January 2024

This article examines how religious leaders navigate between tensions involving theological ideals of peace and pragmatic realities during violent conflicts. The findings are based on 75 in-depth interviews with Orthodox, Catholic, and Islamic religious leaders in Bosnia-Herzegovina, conducted between the years 2015 and 2017. The paper introduces the concepts of “theological dissonance” to describe mismatches between principles and actions, and “pastoral optimization” for the strategy of maximizing influence under constraints. Factors influencing engagement in peacebuilding include doctrinal traditions, individual differences, organizational capacity of a religious community, effective control over messaging, and audience receptivity. In terms of practical suggestions, the article proposes several measures that could enhance synergy between religious and nonreligious actors working together in this field, most notably, understanding each other’s scopes and limitations and clarifying what “peace” and “peacebuilding” represent to each partner.
From Philosophy of Religion to Philosophy of Religious Experience: On New Tendencies in French Phenomenology of Religion
Authors: Zgórecki Przemysław
Published: January 2024

Contemporary thinking on religion is confronted with the challenge of shifting from a ‘philosophy of religion’ to a ‘philosophy of religious experience’. This challenge, on which the common future of philosophy and theology depends, is not to draw a line between the two, but rather to cross that very line. Crossing the boundary between philosophy and theology, which is what is being discussed here, means transcending its naive geometric understanding in order to take up the old task of thinking in a new way. This is a challenge to both philosophy and theology because it is an existential, or rather an experiential, task. It is about a specific experience and a specific way of life that emerges from it, which must be described in philosophy and at the same time elaborated in theology. This is perhaps the greatest challenge to religious thought. The most representative recent attempts to meet this challenge will be traced below. As we shall see, the best method for both philosophical and theological description of religious experience seems to be phenomenology. The latter allows a free exploration of this experience, while avoiding the trap of falling into the limitations set by either philosophy or theology unduly separated by the boundaries set by a conventional academic rigor. The problem of this article is the quest of exploring religious experience itself: the possibility of such an undertaking, its method, and its future. The considerations presented beneath will lead us to conclude that religious thought, to survive and develop further, needs a specifically understood conversion: its future lies, namely, in converting to experience.
A Moderate Proposal: Jonathan Dickinson and Benjamin Franklin Debate Freedom, Conscience, and Consensus
Authors: Roberson Rusty
Published: January 2024

In matters of twenty-first century public policy, age-old questions surrounding freedom of conscience and both personal and civic liberties remain in perennial tension with the necessary demands for civic conformity, custom, and consensus. These questions were also of critical importance in early eighteenth-century colonial America. In the first half of the eighteenth century, a hotbed of religious, intellectual, and cultural diversity was fomenting considerable conflict in Philadelphia, setting the stage for a vital debate over the nature and parameters of religious liberty and freedom of conscience in the colonies. Within this context of the eighteenth-century religious and cultural landscape of colonial Philadelphia, this article will examine a debate between Jonathan Dickinson and Benjamin Franklin whereby two distinctly different interpretations of religious liberty and freedom of conscience were established. Left to themselves, these two interpretations lead to sharply divergent trajectories. Nonetheless, by considering these two viewpoints in dialogue with one another, the Franklin–Dickinson pamphlet debate can serve as a useful tool for conceptualizing twenty-first century public policy issues related to freedom of conscience: policies that preserve the essential aspects of what constitutes each person’s humanity while simultaneously respecting the broader exigencies for public order and responsible policy in the aggregate.