bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pore-Type Characterization and Reservoir Zonation of the Sarvak Formation in the Abadan Plain, Zagros Basin, Iran
Authors: Mehrabi Hamzeh , Karami Fatemeh , Fakhar-Shahreza Nafiseh , Honarmand Javad
Published: November 2023

Carbonate reservoirs are characterized by their complex depositional–diagenetic history and, consequently, intricate pore networks. In this study, pore types and reservoir zones of the Sarvak Formation, which is the second most important oil reservoir in Iran, are investigated by integrating core, thin-section, porosity–permeability, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mercury injection capillary pressure (MICP) data. Depositional, diagenetic, and fracture pores are identified in macroscopic to microscopic scales. Frequency analysis of pore types revealed that diagenetic pores, including vuggy, moldic, intercrystalline, and fracture pores, formed the majority of pore spaces of the Sarvak Formation. They are dominantly recorded in the regressive systems tracts of both the Cenomanian and Turonian sequences, just below the paleoexposure surfaces. Away from the disconformities, there are two general trends regarding the pore-types distribution: (a) grain-supported facies of shoal and talus settings with dominant primary (depositional) pores including interparticle, intra-skeletal, and growth-framework pores, which are concentrated in the middle part of the formation, and (b) microporous mud-dominated facies with various types of primary and secondary pore types in the TSTs of third-order sequences, especially in the lower part of the Sarvak Formation. Stratigraphic modified Lorenz plot differentiated reservoir, speed, barrier, and baffle zones in this formation. Depositional–diagenetic characters, petrophysical properties, and dominant pore types are defined for each zone in a sequence stratigraphic framework.
Highly Selective CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol over Complex In/Co Catalysts: Effect of Polymer Frame
Authors: Sorokina Svetlana A. , Kuchkina Nina V. , Mikhailov Stepan P. , Mikhalchenko Alexander V. , Bykov Alexey V. , Doluda Valentin Yu. , Bronstein Lyudmila M. , Shifrina Zinaida B.
Published: November 2023

The growing demand for new energy sources governs the intensive research into CO2 hydrogenation to methanol, a valuable liquid fuel. Recently, indium-based catalysts have shown promise in this reaction, but they are plagued by shortcomings such as structural instability during the reaction and low selectivity. Here, we report a new strategy of controlling the selectivity and stability of bimetallic magnetically recoverable indium-based catalysts deposited onto a solid support. This was accomplished by the introduction of a structural promoter: a branched pyridylphenylene polymer (PPP). The selectivity of methanol formation for this catalyst reached 98.5%, while in the absence of PPP, the catalysts produced a large amount of methane, and the selectivity was about 70.2%. The methanol production rate was higher by a factor of twelve compared to that of a commercial Cu-based catalyst. Along with tuning selectivity, PPP allowed the catalyst to maintain a high stability, enhancing the CO2 sorption capacity and the protection of In against sintering and over-reduction. A careful evaluation of the structure–activity relationships allowed us to balance the catalyst composition with a high level of structural control, providing synergy between the support, magnetic constituent, catalytic species, and the stabilizing polymer layer. We also uncovered the role of each component in the ultimate methanol activity and selectivity.
The Gastroprotective Effect of Walnut Peptides: Mechanisms and Impact on Ethanol-Induced Acute Gastric Mucosal Injury in Mice
Authors: Yuan Yutong , Wang Xinyi , Wang Yumeng , Liu Yaqi , Zhao Liang , Zhao Lei , Cai Shengbao
Published: November 2023

The objective of this research was to explore the protective impact of walnut peptides (WP) against ethanol-induced acute gastric mucosal injury in mice and to investigate the underlying defense mechanisms. Sixty male BALB-c mice were divided into five groups, and they were orally administered distilled water, walnut peptides (200 and 400 mg/kg bw), and omeprazole (20 mg/kg bw) for 24 days. Acute gastric mucosal injury was then induced with 75% ethanol in all groups of mice except the blank control group. Walnut peptides had significant protective and restorative effects on tissue indices of ethanol-induced gastric mucosal damage, with potential gastric anti-ulcer effects. Walnut peptides significantly inhibited the excessive accumulation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transferase (AST), and malondialdehyde (MDA), while promoting the expression of reduced glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione disulfide (GSSG), and mouse epidermal growth factor (EGF). Furthermore, the Western blot analysis results revealed that walnut peptides significantly upregulated the expression of HO-1 and NQO1 proteins in the Nrf2 signaling pathway. The defensive impact of walnut peptides on the gastric mucosa may be achieved by mitigating the excessive generation of lipid peroxides and by boosting cellular antioxidant activity.
How Do Older Patients with End-Stage Osteoarthritis of the Hip Eat Prior to Hip Replacement? A Preliminary Snapshot That Highlights a Poor Diet
Authors: Briguglio Matteo , Sirtori Paolo , Mangiavini Laura , Buzzi Sara , Cordani Claudio , Zerni Maria Francesca , Wainwright Thomas W. , Ursino Nicola , Peretti Giuseppe M. , Banfi Giuseppe
Published: November 2023

Diet quantity and quality in older adults is critical for the proper functioning of the musculoskeletal system. In view of hip surgery, old patients should consume 1.2–1.5 g of proteins and 27–30 kcal per kilo of body weight daily, and adhere to healthy eating habits. In this analytical study, we studied diet quantity and quality in relation to the clinical chemistry and functional status of 57 older adults undergoing elective hip replacement. Nine in ten patients did not meet suggested protein and energy intakes and only one in ten patients exhibited high adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Legume consumption adjusted for sex, age, body mass index, and health status successfully forecasted haemoglobin levels (p < 0.05), and patients regularly consuming olive oil reported minor hip disability compared to those using it less frequently (p < 0.05). Patients who reported daily ingestion of <1 serving of meat versus those consuming >1.5 servings had greater cumulative comorbidity (p < 0.05), with meat consumption independently predicting walking ability, mobility, and balance in the fully adjusted model (p < 0.01). In conclusion, our patients seem to eat poorly. There is room for improvement in pre-operative pathways to make older adults eat better, but there is a need to plan an interventional study to fully understand the cause–effect of a dietary pattern or specific food in enhancing recovery after surgery.
Correction: Kang et al. Anticolon Cancer Effect of Korean Red Ginseng via Autophagy- and Apoptosis-Mediated Cell Death. Nutrients 2022, 14, 3558
Authors: Kang Kyoung Ah , Yao Cheng Wen , Piao Mei Jing , Zhen Ao Xuan , Fernando Pincha Devage Sameera Madushan , Herath Herath Mudiyanselage Udari Lakmini , Song Seung Eun , Cho Suk Ju , Hyun Jin Won
Published: November 2023

In the original publication [...]
Glycemic Control, Basal/Bolus Distribution, BMI and Meal Management in Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes and Advanced Hybrid Closed Loop
Authors: Piccini Barbara , Felicioni Matteo , Pessina Benedetta , Bertini Mattia , Casalini Emilio , Ceccotti Chiara , Farina Silvia , Ferrari Marta , Lenzi Lorenzo , Monzali Francesca , Toni Sonia
Published: November 2023

Evidence about the impact of advanced hybrid closed loop (AHCL) on body mass index (BMI) and eating habits in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is lacking. This real-world study aimed at evaluating glycemic control, BMI, meals and basal/bolus distribution in young subjects with T1D treated by AHCL. Glycemic metrics, HbA1c, basal/bolus distribution, meals/day, BMI, total daily dose (TDD), and carbohydrates/kg (CHO/kg) have been evaluated in 83 subjects, aged 13 ± 4.5 years, in manual mode, 3 and 6 months after auto-mode. Time in range (TIR) increased after 3 months, exceeding the target of 70% and was maintained at 6 months. While coefficient of variation (CV) did not change, the glucose management indicator (GMI) decreased in auto-mode (6.7 ± 0.3 vs. 7.1 ± 0.5%; p < 0.001), as well as HbA1c. Basal proportion decreased in favor of boluses (38.3 ± 7.3 vs. 43.6 ± 10.9%; p < 0.001). Meals increased at 3 and 6 months (4.4 ± 1.2 vs. 5.0 ± 1.5, p 0.002 and 5.1 ± 1.7, p < 0.001), as well as TDD/kg, without changes in BMI and CHO consumed. No differences in meal composition have arisen from food diaries. In conclusion, AHCL ensured the achievement and maintenance of target TIR in young T1D subjects. The number of meals, TDD, and insulin bolus proportion increased over time, but BMI remained stable.
Agaricus blazei Polysaccharide Alleviates DSS-Induced Colitis in Mice by Modulating Intestinal Barrier and Remodeling Metabolism
Authors: Ji Zhong-Hao , He Song , Xie Wen-Yin , Zhao Pei-Sen , Ren Wen-Zhi , Gao Wei , Yuan Bao
Published: November 2023

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic noninfectious intestinal disease that severely affects patients’ quality of life. Agaricus blazei Murrill polysaccharide (ABP) is an effective active ingredient extracted from Agaricus blazei Murrill (ABM). It has good efficacy in inhibiting tumor cell growth, lowering blood pressure, and improving atherosclerosis. However, its effect on colitis is unclear. The aim of this study was to analyze the protective effects and potential mechanisms of ABP against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis in mice. The results showed that dietary supplementation with ABP significantly alleviated DSS-induced colitis symptoms, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress. Meanwhile, ABP intervention was able to maintain the integrity of the intestinal mechanical barrier by promoting the expression of ZO-1 and Occludin tight junction proteins and facilitating mucus secretion. Moreover, 16S rRNA sequencing results suggested that ABP intervention was able to alleviate DSS-induced gut microbiota disruption, and nontargeted metabolomics results indicated that ABP was able to remodel metabolism. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that dietary supplementation with ABP alleviated DSS-induced acute colitis by maintaining intestinal barrier integrity and remodeling metabolism. These results improve our understanding of ABP function and provide a theoretical basis for the use of dietary supplementation with ABP for the prevention of ulcerative colitis.
Biotransformation of American Ginseng Stems and Leaves by an Endophytic Fungus Umbelopsis sp. and Its Effect on Alzheimer’s Disease Control
Authors: Chen Qiqi , Wang Jingying , Gao Yuhang , Wang Zixin , Gao Xiujun , Yan Peisheng
Published: November 2023

Background: Common ginsenosides can be transformed into rare ginsenosides through microbial fermentation, and some rare ginsenosides can prevent Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This study aimed to transform common ginsenosides into rare ginsenosides through solid-state fermentation of American ginseng stems and leaves (AGSL) by an endophytic fungus and to explore whether fermented saponin extracts prevent AD. Methods: The powders of AGSL were fermented in a solid state by endophytic fungus. Total saponins were extracted from fermentation products using the methanol extraction method. The types of saponins were analyzed by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS). The Aβ42 concentration and β-secretase activity were measured by ELISA for the prevention of AD. Results: After AGSL was fermented by an endophytic fungus NSJG, the total saponin concentration of the fermented extract G-SL was higher than the unfermented CK-SL. Rare ginsenoside Rh1 was newly produced and the yield of compound K (561.79%), Rh2 (77.48%), and F2 (40.89%) was increased in G-SL. G-SL had a higher inhibition rate on Aβ42 concentration (42.75%) and β-secretase activity (42.22%) than CK-SL, possibly because the rare ginsenoside Rh1, Rh2, F2, and compound K included in it have a strong inhibitory effect on AD. Conclusion: The fermented saponin extracts of AGSL show more inhibition effects on AD and may be promising therapeutic drugs or nutrients for AD.
Recent Advances in Folates and Autoantibodies against Folate Receptors in Early Pregnancy and Miscarriage
Authors: Qin Xue-Yun , Ha Si-Yao , Chen Lu , Zhang Tao , Li Ming-Qing
Published: November 2023

Though firstly identified in cerebral folate deficiency, autoantibodies against folate receptors (FRAbs) have been implicated in pregnancy complications such as miscarriage; however, the underlying mechanism needs to be further elaborated. FRAbs can be produced via sensitization mediated by folate-binding protein as well as gene mutation, aberrant modulation, or degradation of folate receptors (FRs). FRAbs may interfere with folate internalization and metabolism through blocking or binding with FRs. Interestingly, different types of FRs are expressed on trophoblast cells, decidual epithelium or stroma, and macrophages at the maternal-fetal interface, implying FRAbs may be involved in the critical events necessary for a successful pregnancy. Thus, we propose that FRAbs may disturb pregnancy establishment and maintenance by modulating trophoblastic biofunctions, placental development, decidualization, and decidua homeostasis as well as the functions of FOLR2+ macrophages. In light of these findings, FRAbs may be a critical factor in pathological pregnancy, and deserve careful consideration in therapies involving folic acid supplementation for pregnancy complications.
Total Protein Intake in Patients with PKU: Adequacy Evaluation According to the European PKU Guidelines from 2017
Authors: Gomes Melanie , Almeida Manuela Ferreira , Barbosa Catarina Sousa , Gama Maria Inês , Peres Maria , Pinto Élia , MacDonald Anita , Rocha Júlio César
Published: November 2023

In PKU, the protein requirements are contentious. In 2018, we evaluated the protein intake in patients with PKU. Ninety-nine early treated patients aged 19.3 ± 8.2 years (54% males) were studied. A total of 24 had hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA), 48 mild and 27 classical PKU. All had an annual nutritional status evaluation. A total of 83% were on diet therapy only, and 17% were on diet with tetrahydrobiopterin therapy. Anthropometry, metabolic control and nutritional intake [total protein (TP, g/kg), natural protein (NP, g/kg), protein equivalent from protein substitutes (PE, g/kg)] were collected. TP adequacy (TPA) was calculated as a % of WHO (2007) safe levels of protein intake. Results were compared with the European PKU Guidelines (EPG). The median % contribution NP of TP intake was 53% [31–100]. Most patients (78%) had a TP intake above the EPG recommendations. The median TPA was 171% [146–203], with 79% [51–165] from NP and 84% [0–109] from PE. A TPA of 100–140% was observed in 16 (16%) patients. Only n = 6 (6%) patients had a TPA < 100%. These results emphasize the heterogeneity of PKU. More research is needed to understand the necessity of a single protein recommendation for all, as a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution might not be appropriate.
The Association of Physical Activity Level with Micronutrient and Health Status of Austrian Bank Employees
Authors: Schauer Markus , Motevalli Mohamad , Tanous Derrick , Mair Susanne , Burtscher Martin , Wirnitzer Katharina
Published: November 2023

Background: Favorable health benefits of an active lifestyle have been clearly documented within the context of occupational health. However, a knowledge gap exists regarding the monitoring and comparison of micronutrient status across varying levels of physical activity (PA). This study aimed to investigate the association of PA level with micronutrient status and the associated health biomarkers among a cohort of Austrian bank employees. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, this study involved the participation of bank employees (n = 123; average age: 43 years; 49% males) from the federal state of Tyrol, located in the western part of Austria. To assess PA levels and sedentary behavior, the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ; developed by the WHO) was administered. Accordingly, participants were categorized into three groups: low PA, moderate PA, and high PA. Participants’ blood samples were obtained to measure blood levels of micronutrients, homocysteine, and CoQ10. The values of vitamins and minerals in whole-blood were compared to sex-specific reference ranges and grouped into three categories: below, within, or exceeding the reference range. Results: The prevalence of a high PA level was 61%, while 18% of participants had a low PA level. Overweight/obesity was significantly less prevalent among participants with high PA levels (22%) compared to those with moderate (50%) and low (50%) PA levels (p = 0.045). No significant differences between PA levels were found for sex, age, diet type, homocysteine, or CoQ10 markers (p > 0.05). There was no significant PA-based difference in blood concentrations of most vitamins and minerals (p > 0.05), except for vitamin D (p = 0.001) among females, as well as selenium (p = 0.040) and vitamin B12 (p = 0.048) among males. Conclusion: The present findings offer initial insights into the link between PA behaviors, micronutrient status, and health, highlighting potential implications in occupational health and lifestyle, specifically in developing tailored approaches based on PA levels.
Differential Contribution of Hydrogen Metabolism to Proteus mirabilis Fitness during Single-Species and Polymicrobial Catheterized Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Brauer Aimee L. , Learman Brian S. , Armbruster Chelsie E.
Published: November 2023

Proteus mirabilis is a common uropathogen and a leading cause of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), which are often polymicrobial. Through a genome-wide screen, we previously identified two [NiFe] hydrogenases as candidate fitness factors for P. mirabilis CAUTI: a Hyb-type Group 1c H2-uptake hydrogenase and a Hyf-type Group 4a H2-producing hydrogenase. In this study, we disrupted one gene of each system (hyfE and hybC) and also generated a double mutant to examine the contribution of flexible H2 metabolism to P. mirabilis growth and fitness in vitro and during experimental CAUTI. Since P. mirabilis is typically present as part of a polymicrobial community in the urinary tract, we also examined the impact of two common co-colonization partners, Providencia stuartii and Enterococcus faecalis, on the expression and contribution of each hydrogenase to fitness. Our data demonstrate that neither system alone is critical for P. mirabilis growth in vitro or fitness during experimental CAUTI. However, perturbation of flexible H2 metabolism in the ∆hybC∆hyfE double mutant decreased P. mirabilis fitness in vitro and during infection. The Hyf system alone contributed to the generation of proton motive force and swarming motility, but only during anaerobic conditions. Unexpectedly, both systems contributed to benzyl viologen reduction in TYET medium, and disruption of either system increased expression of the other. We further demonstrate that polymicrobial interactions with P. stuartii and E. faecalis alter the expression of Hyb and Hyf in vitro as well as the contribution of each system to P. mirabilis fitness during CAUTI.
Phage Therapy—Challenges, Opportunities and Future Prospects
Authors: Zalewska-Piątek Beata
Published: November 2023

The increasing drug resistance of bacteria to commonly used antibiotics creates the need to search for and develop alternative forms of treatment. Phage therapy fits this trend perfectly. Phages that selectively infect and kill bacteria are often the only life-saving therapeutic option. Full legalization of this treatment method could help solve the problem of multidrug-resistant infectious diseases on a global scale. The aim of this review is to present the prospects for the development of phage therapy, the ethical and legal aspects of this form of treatment given the current situation of such therapy, and the benefits of using phage products in persons for whom available therapeutic options have been exhausted or do not exist at all. In addition, the challenges faced by this form of therapy in the fight against bacterial infections are also described. More clinical studies are needed to expand knowledge about phages, their dosage, and a standardized delivery system. These activities are necessary to ensure that phage-based therapy does not take the form of an experiment but is a standard medical treatment. Bacterial viruses will probably not become a miracle cure—a panacea for infections—but they have a chance to find an important place in medicine.
Acceleration of Neutral Atoms by Strong Short-Wavelength Short-Range Electromagnetic Pulses
Authors: Melezhik Vladimir S. , Shadmehri Sara
Published: November 2023

Nondipole terms in the atom–laser interaction arising due to the presence of a magnetic component in an electromagnetic wave and its inhomogeneity lead to the nonseparability of the center-of-mass (CM) and electron variables in the neutral atom and, as a consequence, to its acceleration. We investigate this effect and the accompanying excitation and ionization processes for the hydrogen atom in strong (1012 – 2×1014 W/cm2) linearly polarized short-wavelength (5 eV ≲ℏω≲ 27 eV) electromagnetic pulses of about 8 fs duration. The study was carried out within the framework of a hybrid quantum-quasiclassical approach in which the coupled time-dependent Schrödinger equation for an electron and the classical Hamilton equations for the CM of an atom were simultaneously integrated. Optimal conditions with respect to the frequency and intensity of the electromagnetic wave for the acceleration of atoms without their noticeable ionization were found in the analyzed region.
Liverworts of Magadan: Life on the Edge of Beringia
Authors: Bakalin Vadim A. , Klimova Ksenia G. , Bakalin Daniil A. , Choi Seung Se
Published: November 2023

Magadan Province, located on the southwestern edge of Greater Beringia, combines various floristic elements in its flora, including Beringian and circum-boreal species. The geographic position and habitat diversity of Magadan Province predicts its liverwort flora is one of the richest hemiarctic floras in Asia. The distribution of species throughout the region is uneven, and while its southern part shows close connections with the suboceanic floras of Kamchatka, the middle and central parts are clearly related to the floras of Chukotka, where the Beringian land bridge directly lies in the past. The wide distribution of basic rocks here leads to the existence of a significant complex of basiphylous taxa. A total of 214 taxa (including 205 species and nine varieties) are reported in the present paper. The study of liverworts of Magadan Province should be continued and several new additions to the floral list are highly likely.
Effects of Fulvic Acid on Growth and Nitrogen Utilization Efficiency in M9T337 Seedlings
Authors: Yu Bo , Wang Laiping , Cui Dongdong , Gao Wensheng , Xue Xiaomin , Nie Peixian
Published: November 2023

Both fulvic acid (FA) and nitrogen (N) play important roles in agricultural production in China. Plants typically show a higher nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE) under FA application. However, the role of FA application in apple growth and NUE remains unclear. A hydroponic culture experiment was performed, and M9T337 seedlings (a dwarf apple rootstock) were used as the experimental subjects. The biomass, photosynthesis, accumulation, and distribution of photosynthates, N absorption and assimilation, and relative gene expression in the seedlings were examined after treatment with five different concentrations of FA (0, 60, 120, 180, and 240 mg·L−1, represented by CK, FA1, FA2, FA3, FA4, respectively). The results showed that the seedling dry weight and 15NUE were enhanced by FA, and both were highest under the FA2 (the concentration of fulvic acid is 120 mg·L−1) treatment. Further analysis revealed that under the FA2 treatment, the root morphology was optimized, and the root activity was relatively high. Compared with CK (control, the concentration of fulvic acid is 0 mg·L−1), the FA2 treatment strengthened photosynthesis, elevated the key enzyme activities related to C metabolism, upregulated the gene expression of sugar transport proteins, and increased the root sorbitol and sucrose contents, which suggested that the FA2 treatment optimally affected the root growth and N absorption because it enhanced photosynthate synthesis and the leaf-to-root translocation of photoassimilates. The seedlings in the FA2 treatment group also showed a significantly higher NO3− influx rate and NRT (nitrate transporter) gene expression in the roots. Moreover, relatively high N metabolism-related enzyme activities in the leaves and roots were also observed under the FA2 treatment. The isotope labeling results showed that the optimal FA2 supply not only promoted seedling 15N absorption but also optimized the distribution of C and N in the seedlings. These results suggested that an optimal FA supply (120 mg·L−1) enhanced seedling NUE by strengthening photoassimilate synthesis and transport from leaves to roots, regulating N absorption, assimilation, and distribution.
A Fluorine-Containing Main-Chain Benzoxazine/Epoxy Co-Curing System with Low Dielectric Constants and High Thermal Stability
Authors: Zhang Tinghao , Zhang Wenzheng , Ding Zichun , Jiao Jianjian , Wang Jinyan , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2023

A fluorine-containing main-chain benzoxazine (BAF-M-TB) was co-cured with biphenyl epoxy for the integrated circuit industry. The benzoxazine precursor was synthesized using 4,4′-(Hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphenol (bisphenol AF), 2,2′-Dimethyl-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-Diamine(M-TB), and paraformaldehyde. In addition, the 3,3′-(Oxybis(4,1-phenylene))bis(3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[e][1,3]oxazine) (Benoxazine ODA-BOZ), which is a commercialized benzoxazine, was co-cured with biphenyl epoxy as a control. The two co-curing systems were referred to as EP/BAF-M-TB and EP/ODA-BOZ. The curing kinetics, rheological behavior, and thermal stability of the two co-curing systems were studied. Poly-EP/BAF-M-TB and poly-EP/ODA-BOZ quartz fiber cloth reinforced composites (QFRPs) were prepared using the prepreg laminating method in order to determine their mechanical, thermal, and dielectric properties. Both of them showed good thermal properties and dielectric properties. The dielectric constant of poly-EP/BAF-M-TB QFRP is in the range of 3.25–3.54 at the low frequency of 10 kHz–10 MHz. At the high frequency of 5 GHz, its dielectric constant is 3.16, which is better than that of poly-EP/ODA-BOZ QFRP. Additionally, the Td5 of poly-EP/BAF-M-TB was 398 °C in a nitrogen atmosphere, which is higher than that of poly-EP/ODA-BOZ.
Structure Strengthening Phenomena of Gluten Matrices under Different Stress Types
Authors: Vidal Leonhard Maria , Alpers Thekla , Becker Thomas
Published: November 2023

To predict the achievable product volume with respect to the gas retention capacity of the gluten matrix in wheat flour doughs, strain hardening evaluation is crucial. But assessing these structure hardening phenomena in wheat flour dough systems is still a challenging task. In this work, a simple shear method applied to kneaded dough samples was tested and compared to biaxial extension tests performed with a lubricated squeezing flow method. The comparability of shear-induced structure hardening with biaxial extension tests was shown. Structure hardening and breakdown after overload were visualized using shear flow and a comparison of the obtained shear flow over Hencky strain curve peaks. To predict the behavior of the analyzed flours according to their composition, a correlation analysis of the flour and dough properties was performed. The influence of the HMW glutenin subunits on the sensitivity of the dough matrix according to the applied shear speed (0.1 and 1.0 mm/s) could be shown with a correlation coefficient of 0.94. The LMW glutenin subunits, on the other hand, showed a high correlation coefficient of 0.89 with the achievable network connectivity parameter z [-] gained from frequency sweep testing.
Superparamagnetic Hybrid Nanospheres Based on Chitosan Obtained by Double Crosslinking in a Reverse Emulsion for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Dellali Mohammed , Zanoune Kheira , Hamcerencu Mihaela , Logigan Corina-Lenuța , Popa Marcel , Mahmoudi Hacene
Published: November 2023

Nowadays, the Magnetically Targeted Drug Delivery System (MTDDS) is among the most attractive and promising strategies for delivering drugs to the target site. The present study aimed to obtain a biopolymer–magnetite–drug nanosystem via a double crosslinking (ionic and covalent) technique in reverse emulsion, which ensures the mechanical stability of the polymer support in the form of original hybrid nanospheres (NSMs) loaded with biologically active principles (the 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)) as a potential treatment for cancer. Obtained NSMs were characterized in terms of structure (FT-IR), size (DLS), morphology (SEM), swelling, and 5-FU entrapment/release properties, which were dependent on the synthesis parameters (polymer concentration, dispersion speed, and amount of ionic crosslinking agent). SEM analysis results revealed that NSMs presented a spherical shape and are homogeneous and separated. Moreover, NSMs’ ability to load/release 5-FU was tested in vitro, the results confirming, as expected, their dependence on the varied synthesis process and NSM swelling ability in physiological liquids. The drug transport mechanism through the polymer matrix of its release is the Fickian type. The morphological, bio-material characteristics and the ability to include and release an antitumor drug highlight the utility of the NSMs obtained for targeting and treating some tumor diseases.
Fuzzy Control Strategies Development for a 3-DoF Robotic Manipulator in Trajectory Tracking
Authors: Kern John , Marrero Dailin , Urrea Claudio
Published: November 2023

This research delves into the development and evaluation of two distinct controllers for a 3-DoF robotic arm in the context of Industry 4.0. Two primary control strategies are presented in the study. The first is a Fuzzy Logic Controller that utilizes joint position error and its derivative as inputs, employing a set of 9 control knowledge rules. The second is an Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) Controller, trained to learn the inverse dynamic model of the robot through a structured dataset. The research emphasizes the importance of accurate parameter tuning and data acquisition to achieve optimal control system performance. Extensive experimentation was conducted to evaluate the controllers’ performance in trajectory tracking and their response against external disturbances, such as load variations. The controllers exhibited remarkable precision and proficiency in tracking reference trajectories, with minimal deviations, overshoots, or oscillations. A quantitative analysis using performance indices such as root mean square error (RMSE) and the integral of the absolute value of the time-weighted error (ITAE) further confirmed the controllers’ effectiveness. Notably, the ANFIS Controller consistently outperformed the Fuzzy Logic Controller, demonstrating superior precision in trajectory tracking. The study underscored the importance of selecting the right control method and obtaining high-quality training data. Challenges in parameter tuning for Fuzzy Logic Controllers and potential time constraints in training ANFIS were discussed. The findings have significant implications for advancing robotic control systems, particularly in the era of Industry 4.0.
Robotic Systems in Knee Surgery: Current Concepts and Future Perspectives
Authors: Cantivalli Antonino , Cottino Umberto , Bonasia Davide Edoardo , Rosso Federica , Rossi Roberto
Published: November 2023

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a successful and highly effective procedure in most patients with tricompartmental knee arthritis. Despite the innovations in surgical techniques due to planning software and technological innovations, patients’ dissatisfaction after TKA is still high, at up to 20%. Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) could be considered as a future option for improving outcomes due to its higher accuracy, precision, and reliability. Robotic systems can be classified as fully active, semi-active, or passive depending on the surgeon’s involvement during the procedure, and as imageless or image-based according to the necessity of radiological exams for the pre-operative planning. Three of the most well-known robotic systems for knee surgery are MAKO® (Stryker Ltd., Kalamazoo, MI, USA), NAVIO® (Smith & Nephew, Andover, TX, USA), and ROSA® (Zimmer Inc., Warsaw, IN, USA). These systems show differences in terms of surgeon involvement, the use of CT scans or X-rays for pre-operative planning, the possibility to perform both unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) and TKA (or even total hip arthroplasty THA), and in the different kinds of knee prosthesis that can be implanted. This article aims to describe the features of the most used robotic systems for knee arthroplasty, to examine their outcomes and analyze their cost-effectiveness, and to evaluate future perspectives.
What Do We Do with the Works of Scandalous Founders in the Catholic Church?
Authors: Duhau Juan Bautista
Published: November 2023

Throughout the 20th century, new religious movements (NRMs) emerged within established religions. Within Catholicism, these NRMs are known as new ecclesial movements and communities. A significant number of founders of these Catholic NRMs have been reported and found guilty of various types of abuses, including sexual abuse, abuse of power, abuse of conscience, and spiritual abuses. This article examines the repercussions of these scandalous behaviors on the foundations and institutions established by the accused founders. Firstly, we investigate how contemporary Catholic communities employ interpretations provided by traditional congregations regarding their founders in the postcouncil era. They utilize these interpretations to legitimize the charismatic founders of their respective movements. Secondly, we assess the feasibility of disentangling the accomplishments of these communities from the shadow cast by their controversial originators. Our findings advocate for the contextualization of works authored by individuals under scrutiny. This approach is presented as a more constructive and effective alternative to wholesale dismissal.
Regions, History, and Identity in Medieval Liturgics: The Outlines of a Methodology
Authors: Földváry Miklós István , Stamler Ábel
Published: November 2023

Apropos of Spanish or Languedocien elements manifest in the late 13th-century Durandus Pontifical, this study explores the relationship between high medieval ritual and identity formation. It introduces the notion of liturgical use, an inclusive term for the body of customs that determined the way ceremonies were performed by lasting communities with a sense of belonging together. The primary challenge of comparing uses lies in selecting and systematizing the relevant information and interpreting the results. The authors argue that this challenge can be met by reducing the evidence to textual items and positions that lend themselves to large-scale comparative analysis in both time and space. As the main methodological contribution, they introduce the principle of mapping and drawing historical and cultural conclusions from their patterns. By summarizing a decade of careful research into thousands of sources accomplished by the team of the Usuarium database, they present four historical layers of medieval liturgical history, termed formative periods, and outline convergent geographical areas that they call liturgical landscapes. Since data on a lower level rarely correspond to smaller contiguous areas, they interpret the phenomenon called artificial diversity through medieval concepts of regionality and cultural transfer, formulating some thought experiments to understand the ways in which a Europe of uses once functioned.
Spirituality-Related Experiences of Continuing Bonds after a Life Partner’s Suicide
Authors: Čepulienė Austėja Agnietė , Pučinskaitė Beata
Published: November 2023

Background: Bereavement after a life partner’s suicide can be a complex experience marked by a grieving process and post-traumatic reactions. Transforming the continuing bond after such a loss is a difficult but important task. Little is known about how spirituality can function in the context of continuing bonds during suicide bereavement. This study aimed to reveal how women bereaved by their life partners‘ suicide experience a spirituality-related continuing bond with the deceased. Methods: The sample consisted of 11 women who lost their life partners due to suicide 2–5 years ago. Participants attended semi-structured interviews. Results were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Five themes were generated: Feelings towards the deceased—a tribute to his life; Spirituality provides methods to continue the bond; Continuing bonds in the context of the afterlife; Continuing bonds through spiritual experiences; Spirituality as a way to not continue the bond. Conclusions: The findings reveal the complex nature of spirituality-related experiences of continuing bonds after a life partner’s suicide. Spirituality, if important for the bereaved, influences how the continuing bonds are perceived and maintained. The postvention strategies should consider spirituality’s role in the process of grief and continuing bonds.
Groundwater Resources of the Transboundary Quaternary Aquifer of the Lake Chad Basin: Towards a Better Management via Isotope Hydrology
Authors: Song Fricelle , Nlend Bertil , Boum-Nkot Suzanne Ngo , Huneau Frederic , Ndondo Gustave Nkoue , Garel Emilie , Leydier Thomas , Celle Helene , Djieugoue Boris , Ntamak-Nida Marie-Joseph , Etame Jacques
Published: November 2023

A multi-tracer approach has been implemented in the southwestern part of the Lake Chad Basin to depict the functioning of aquifers in terms of recharge, relationship with surface water bodies, flow paths and contamination. The results are of interest for sustainable water management in the region. The multi-layered structure of the regional aquifer was highlighted with shallower and intermediate to deep flow paths. The shallower aquifer is recharged with rainwater and interconnected with surface water. The groundwater chemistry indicates geogenic influences in addition to a strong anthropogenic fingerprint. The intermediate to deep aquifer shows a longer residence time of groundwater, less connection with the surface and no to only a little anthropogenic influence. Ambient Background Levels (ABLs) and Threshold Values (TVs) show the qualitative status of the groundwater bodies and provide helpful information for water resources protection and the implementation of new directives for efficient and more sustainable groundwater exploitation.
ISHS-Net: Single-View 3D Reconstruction by Fusing Features of Image and Shape Hierarchical Structures
Authors: Gao Guoqing , Yang Liang , Zhang Quan , Wang Chongmin , Bao Hua , Rao Changhui
Published: November 2023

The reconstruction of 3D shapes from a single view has been a longstanding challenge. Previous methods have primarily focused on learning either geometric features that depict overall shape contours but are insufficient for occluded regions, local features that capture details but cannot represent the complete structure, or structural features that encode part relationships but require predefined semantics. However, the fusion of geometric, local, and structural features has been lacking, leading to inaccurate reconstruction of shapes with occlusions or novel compositions. To address this issue, we propose a two-stage approach for achieving 3D shape reconstruction. In the first stage, we encode the hierarchical structure features of the 3D shape using an encoder-decoder network. In the second stage, we enhance the hierarchical structure features by fusing them with global and point features and feed the enhanced features into a signed distance function (SDF) prediction network to obtain rough SDF values. Using the camera pose, we project arbitrary 3D points in space onto different depth feature maps of the CNN and obtain their corresponding positions. Then, we concatenate the features of these corresponding positions together to form local features. These local features are also fed into the SDF prediction network to obtain fine-grained SDF values. By fusing the two sets of SDF values, we improve the accuracy of the model and enable it to reconstruct other object types with higher quality. Comparative experiments demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms state-of-the-art approaches in terms of accuracy.
Implementing a Dual-Spectrometer Approach for Improved Surface Reflectance Estimation
Authors: Shrestha Mahesh , Mann Joshua , Maddox Emily , Robbins Terry , Irwin Jeffrey , Kropuenske Travis , Helder Dennis
Published: November 2023

Surface reflectance measurement is an integral part of the vicarious calibration of satellite sensors and the validation of satellite-derived top-of-atmosphere (TOA) and surface reflectance products. A well-known practice for estimating surface reflectance is to conduct a field campaign with a spectrometer and a calibration panel, which is labor-intensive and expensive. To address this issue, the Radiometric Calibration Network, RadCalNet, has been developed, which automatically collects surface reflectance over several selected sites. Neither of these approaches can continuously track the atmosphere, which limits their ability to compensate for atmospheric transmittance change during target measurement. This paper presents the dual-spectrometer approach that uses a stationary spectrometer dedicated to continuously tracking changes in atmospheric transmittance by staring at a calibrated reference panel while the mobile spectrometer measures the target. Simultaneous measurement of the reflectance panel and target help to transfer calibration from the stationary spectrometer to the mobile spectrometer and synchronize the measurements. In this manner, atmospheric transmittance changes during target measurement can be tracked and used to reduce the variability of the target surface reflectance. This paper uses field measurement data from combined field campaigns between different calibration groups at Brookings, South Dakota, and Landsat 8 and Landsat 9 underfly efforts over Coconino National Forest, Arizona, and Guymon, Oklahoma. Preliminary results show that even in a clear sky condition, where atmospheric transmittance changes are minimal, the precision of target surface reflectance estimated using the dual-spectrometer approach is 2–6% better than the single-spectrometer approach. The dual-spectrometer approach shows the potential for a substantial improvement in the precision of the target spectral profile when the atmospheric transmittance is changing rapidly during field measurement. Results show that during non-optimal atmospheric conditions, the dual-spectrometer approach improved the precision of the surface reflectance by 50–60% compared to the single-spectrometer approach across most spectral regions. The ability to estimate surface reflectance more precisely using the dual-spectrometer approach in different atmospheric conditions improves the vicarious calibration of optical satellite sensors and the validation of both TOA and surface reflectance products.
Monitoring the Area Change in the Three Gorges Reservoir Riparian Zone Based on Genetic Algorithm Optimized Machine Learning Algorithms and Sentinel-1 Data
Authors: Xu Baisheng , Wu Wei , Ye Haohui , Li Xinrong , Liu Hongbin
Published: November 2023

Riparian zones play a critical role in ecosystems. Accurately extracting the area of a riparian zone in open water is challenging due to human activities and climate change. This study used Sentinel-1 satellite data to investigate the capabilities of the support vector machine, extreme gradient boosting, and random forest methods, which were optimized by genetic algorithms for the detection of area changes in the riparian zone in the heart region of the Three Gorges Reservoir area of China. A total of 29 images were collected in 2020, and three models were created for each image, which were then transferred to other phases. The models’ performance metrics were validated using all of the images. The results indicated that the SVM method achieved the best performance with an accuracy of 0.945, an F1_Score of 0.950, and a kappa coefficient of 0.889. The optimal model was then used to monitor the area changes in the riparian zone over the study area in 2020. It was calculated that the area of the riparian zones was the smallest on 26 December and the largest on 17 June, with a maximum riparian zone of 31.97 km2. Overall, this study demonstrates that an SVM is the most stable method for detecting area changes in a riparian zone when using Sentinel-1 data compared to the RF and XGB methods. The findings are anticipated to provide a feasible plan for detecting the area dynamics in open-water riparian zones and to provide valuable information for the rational utilization of land resources and the ecological safety of the riparian zone in the Three Gorges Reservoir.
Estimation and Evaluation of Zenith Tropospheric Delay from Single and Multiple GNSS Observations
Authors: Xia Sai , Jin Shuanggen , Jin Xuzhan
Published: November 2023

Multi-Global Navigation Satellite Systems (multi-GNSS) (including GPS, BDS, Galileo, and GLONASS) provide a significant opportunity for high-quality zenith tropospheric delay estimation and its applications in meteorology. However, the performance of zenith total delay (ZTD) retrieval from single- or multi-GNSS observations is not clear, particularly from the new, fully operating BDS-3. In this paper, zenith tropospheric delay is estimated using the single-, dual-, triple-, or four-GNSS Precise Point Positioning (PPP) technique from 55 Multi-GNSS Experiment (MGEX) stations over one year. The performance of GNSS ZTD estimation is evaluated using the International GNSS Service (IGS) standard tropospheric products, radiosonde, and the fifth-generation European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) reanalysis (ERA5). The results show that the GPS-derived ZTD time series is more consistent and reliable than those derived from BDS-only, Galileo-only, and GLONASS-only solutions. The performance of the single-GNSS ZTD solution can be enhanced with better accuracy and stability by combining multi-GNSS observations. The accuracy of the ZTD from multi-GNSS observations is improved by 13.8%, 43.8%, 27.6%, and 22.9% with respect to IGS products for the single-system solution (GPS, BDS, Galileo, and GLONASS), respectively. The ZTD from multi-GNSS observations presents higher accuracy and a significant improvement with respect to radiosonde and ERA5 data when compared to the single-system solution.