bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of microRNAs Derived from Transposable Elements in the Macaca mulatta (Rhesus Monkey) Genome
Authors: Park Eun Gyung , Lee Yun Ju , Huh Jae-Won , Park Sang-Je , Imai Hiroo , Kim Woo Ryung , Lee Du Hyeong , Kim Jung-min , Shin Hae Jin , Kim Heui-Soo
Published: October 2023

Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile DNA entities that can move within the host genome. Over long periods of evolutionary time, TEs are typically silenced via the accumulation of mutations in the genome, ultimately resulting in their immobilization. However, they still play an important role in the host genome by acting as regulatory elements. They influence host transcription in various ways, one of which as the origin of the generation of microRNAs (miRNAs), which are so-called miRNAs derived from TEs (MDTEs). miRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that are involved in many biological processes by regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Here, we identified MDTEs in the Macaca mulatta (rhesus monkey) genome, which is phylogenetically close species to humans, based on the genome coordinates of miRNAs and TEs. The expression of 5 out of 17 MDTEs that were exclusively registered in M. mulatta from the miRBase database (v22) was examined via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Moreover, Gene Ontology analysis was performed to examine the functional implications of the putative target genes of the five MDTEs.
Geochemical Biodegraded Oil Classification Using a Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Bispo-Silva Sizenando , de Oliveira Cleverson J. Ferreira , de Alemar Barberes Gabriel
Published: October 2023

Chromatographic oil analysis is an important step for the identification of biodegraded petroleum via peak visualization and interpretation of phenomena that explain the oil geochemistry. However, analyses of chromatogram components by geochemists are comparative, visual, and consequently slow. This article aims to improve the chromatogram analysis process performed during geochemical interpretation by proposing the use of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), which are deep learning techniques widely used by big tech companies. Two hundred and twenty-one chromatographic oil images from different worldwide basins (Brazil, the USA, Portugal, Angola, and Venezuela) were used. The open-source software Orange Data Mining was used to process images by CNN. The CNN algorithm extracts, pixel by pixel, recurring features from the images through convolutional operations. Subsequently, the recurring features are grouped into common feature groups. The training result obtained an accuracy (CA) of 96.7% and an area under the ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) curve (AUC) of 99.7%. In turn, the test result obtained a 97.6% CA and a 99.7% AUC. This work suggests that the processing of petroleum chromatographic images through CNN can become a new tool for the study of petroleum geochemistry since the chromatograms can be loaded, read, grouped, and classified more efficiently and quickly than the evaluations applied in classical methods.
COVID-19, Housing, and Environmental Injustice
Authors: Njoku Anuli , Joseph Marcelin
Published: October 2023

In the United States, there has been a long history of environmental injustice that disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minorities and low-income communities due to racially targeted policies and widespread discrimination. Environmental racism can be revealed in housing discrimination that perpetuates inequities in exposure to environmental pollutants. Biased credit and mortgaging practices such as redlining have led to housing segregation of racial and ethnic minorities in the USA, permitting policymakers to diminish and disinvest in these communities. The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified housing instability for families of color, including Black and Hispanic/Latinx communities, putting them at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure. There is a need to investigate how environmental injustice intensifies the COVID-19 pandemic, illuminates racial and ethnic inequities in exposure to environmental contaminants, and fuels disparities in COVID-19 outcomes. The aims of this paper are to analyze and discuss environmental injustice and racial and ethnic disparities related to COVID-19 and housing. We also propose recommendations to address this pervasive issue.
An Automated Method for Generating Prefabs of AR Map Point Symbols Based on Object Detection Model
Authors: Zou Nixiao , Xu Qing , Wu Yuqing , Zhu Xinming , Su Youneng
Published: October 2023

Augmented reality (AR) technology enables paper maps to dynamically express three-dimensional geographic information, realizing the fusion of virtual and real information. However, in the current mainstream AR development software, the virtual information usually consists of prefabricated components (prefabs), and the content creation for AR maps heavily relies on manual prefabrication. It leads to repetitive and error-prone prefabrication work, which restricts the design of the dynamic, interactive functions of AR maps. To solve this problem, this paper explored the possibility of automatically generating AR map prefabs using object detection models to establish a data conversion interface from paper maps to AR maps. First, we compared and analyzed various object detection models and selected YOLOv8x to recognize map point symbols. Then, we proposed a method to automatically generate AR map prefabs based on the predicted bounding boxes of the object detection model, which could generate prefabs with corresponding categories and positional information. Finally, we developed an AR map prototype system based on Android mobile devices. We designed an interaction method for information queries in the system to verify the effectiveness of the method proposed in this paper. The validation results indicate that our method can be practically applied to the AR map prefabrication process and can quickly generate AR map prefabs with high information accuracy. It alleviated the repetitive workload established through the manual prefabrication method and had specific feasibility and practicality. Moreover, it could provide solid data support for developing dynamic interactive functions of AR maps.
A Direct Comparison of Peptide Drug Delivery Systems Based on the Use of Hybrid Calcium Phosphate/Chitosan Nanoparticles versus Unmixed Calcium Phosphate or Chitosan Nanoparticles In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Popova Ekaterina , Tikhomirova Victoria , Beznos Olga , Chesnokova Natalia , Grigoriev Yuri , Taliansky Michael , Kost Olga
Published: October 2023

Nanocarriers provide a number of undeniable advantages that could improve the bioavailability of active agents for human, animal, and plant cells. In this study, we compared hybrid nanoparticles (HNPs) consisting of a calcium phosphate core coated with chitosan with unmixed calcium phosphate (CaP) and chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) as carriers of a model substrate, enalaprilat. This tripeptide analog is an inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme and was chosen by its ability to lower intraocular pressure (IOP). In particular, we evaluated the physicochemical characteristics of the particles using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and analyzed their ability to incorporate and release enalaprilat. HNPs exhibited the highest drug loading capacity and both HNPs and CSNPs demonstrated slow drug release. The comparison of the physiological effects of enalaprilat-loaded CaP particles, HNPs, and CSNPs in terms of their impact on IOP in rabbits revealed a clear advantage of hybrid nanoparticles over both inorganic and chitosan nanoparticles. These results could have important mechanistic implications for developing nano-based delivery systems for other medical, veterinary, and agricultural applications.
Developing Semiautomated Methods to Measure Pre- and Postoperative Syrinx Volumes
Authors: Kohut Eric A. , Graff Shantelle A. , Wakelin Samuel H. , Arhin Martin , Nair Govind , Heiss John D.
Published: October 2023

Neurosurgeons evaluate MRI scans to document whether surgical treatment has reduced syrinx size. Manual measurement of syrinx volume is time-consuming and potentially introduces operator error and bias. Developing convenient semiautomated volumetric analysis methods may encourage their clinical implementation and improve syringomyelia monitoring. We analyzed 30 SPGR axial MRI scans from 15 pre- and postoperative Chiari I and syringomyelia patients using two semiautomated (SCAT and 3DQI) methods and a manual Cavalieri (CAV) method. Patients’ spinal cord and syrinx volumes pre- and postoperatively were compared by paired t-test. A decrease in syrinx volume (mm3) after surgery was detected across all methods. Mean syrinx volume (± SD) measured by CAV (n = 30) was, preoperatively, 4515 mm3 ± 3720, postoperatively 1109 ± 1469; (p = 0.0004). SCAT was, pre, 4584 ± 3826, post, 1064 ± 1465; (p = 0.0007) and 3DQI was, pre, 4027 ± 3805, post, 819 ± 1242; (p = 0.001). 3DQI and CAV detected similar mean spinal cord volumes before (p = 0.53) and after surgery (p = 0.23), but SCAT volumes differed significantly (p = 0.005, p = 0.0001). The SCAT and 3DQI semiautomated methods recorded surgically related syrinx volume changes efficiently and with enough accuracy for clinical decision-making and research studies.
Concept of a Novel Glass Ionomer Restorative Material with Improved Mechanical Properties
Authors: Messer-Hannemann Philipp , Böttcher Henrik , Henning Sven , Schwendicke Falk , Effenberger Susanne
Published: October 2023

The objective of this study was to transfer the concept of ductile particle reinforcement to restorative dentistry and to introduce an innovative glass ionomer material that is based on the dispersion of PEG-PU micelles. It was hypothesized that reinforcing a conventional glass ionomer in this way increases the flexural strength and fracture toughness of the material. Flexural strength and fracture toughness tests were performed with the novel reinforced and a control glass ionomer material (DMG, Hamburg, Germany) to investigate the influence of the dispersed micelles on the mechanical performance. Transmission electron microscopy was used to identify the dispersed micelles. Fracture toughness and flexural strength were measured in a 3-point-bending setup using a universal testing machine. Before performing both tests, the specimens were stored in water at 37 °C for 23 h. The fracture toughness (MPa∙m0.5) of the novel glass ionomer material (median: 0.92, IQR: 0.89–0.94) was significantly higher than that of the control material (0.77, 0.75–0.86, p = 0.0078). Significant differences were also found in the flexural strength (MPa) between the reinforced (49.7, 45.2–57.8) and control material (41.8, 40.6–43.5, p = 0.0011). Reinforcing a conventional glass ionomer with PEG-PU micelles improved the mechanical properties and may expand clinical applicability of this material class in restorative dentistry.
Insights into Temperature Simulation and Validation of Fused Deposition Modeling Processes
Authors: Santos Tiago , Belbut Miguel , Amaral João , Amaral Vitor , Ferreira Nelson , Alves Nuno , Pascoal-Faria Paula
Published: October 2023

In fused deposition modeling (FDM), the cooling history impacts the bonding between filaments and layers. The existence of thermal gradients can cause non-homogeneous properties and localized stress points that may affect the individual filaments, resulting in distortion and detachment. Thermal analysis can aid in understanding the manufacturing flaw, providing necessary tools for the optimization of the printing trajectory. The present work is intended to deepen understanding of the thermal phenomena occurring during the extrusion of polymeric materials, aiming at more efficient three-dimensional (3D) printing methods. A one-dimensional (1D) finite differential method was implemented using MATLAB to simulate the temperature evolution of an extruded filament, and the results were compared with two-dimensional (2D) COMSOL Multiphysics simulations, and experimentally validated using infrared thermography. Acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) was used as a test material. The energy dissipation includes forced convection and radiation heat losses to the surrounding medium.
Identification of the Optimal Blank Holder Force through In-Line Measurement of Blank Draw-In in a Deep Drawing Process
Authors: Palmieri Maria Emanuela , Nono Dachille Andrea , Tricarico Luigi
Published: October 2023

During the forming process, variations in noise parameters can negatively impact product quality. To prevent waste from these fluctuations, this study suggests a method for the in-line optimisation of the deep drawing process. The noise parameter considered is the friction coefficient, assuming the variability in lubrication conditions at the blank–tool interface. The proposed approach estimates the noise factor variability during the process by tracking the draw-in of the blank at critical points. Using this estimation, the optimal blank holder force (BHF) is calculated and then adjusted in-line to modify blank sliding and prevent critical issues on the component. For this purpose, a Finite Element (FE) model of a deep drawing case study was developed, and numerical simulation results were used to construct surrogate models while estimating both the friction coefficient and optimal BHF. The FE model’s predictive capability was verified through preliminary experimental tests, and the control logic was numerically validated. Results show the effectiveness of this control type. By adjusting the BHF just once, a defect-free component is achieved. This method overcomes the limitations of feedback controls, which often need multiple adjustment steps. The time required to estimate the friction coefficient and the maximum time available for adjusting the BHF without causing defects was identified.
The Importance of Managing Modifiable Comorbidities in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Nociti Viviana , Romozzi Marina
Published: October 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, inflammatory, degenerative demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) of unknown etiology that affects individuals in their early adulthood. In the last decade, life expectancy for people with MS (PwMS) has almost equaled that of the general population. This demographic shift necessitates a heightened awareness of comorbidities, especially the ones that can be prevented and modified, that can significantly impact disease progression and management. Vascular comorbidities are of particular interest as they are mostly modifiable health states, along with voluntary behaviors, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, commonly observed among individuals with MS. Vascular risk factors have also been implicated in the etiology of cerebral small vessel disease. Furthermore, differentiating between vascular and MS lesion load poses a significant challenge due to overlapping clinical and radiological features. This review describes the current evidence regarding the range of preventable and modifiable comorbidities and risk factors and their implications for PwMS.
Urban Project, a Matter of Morphology
Authors: Visconti Federica , Capozzi Renato
Published: October 2023

This research faces the theme of the actuality of the Urban Morphology discipline. Starting with the reconstruction of the history of urban studies in the schools of architecture in Italy in the last century, a personal approach to the theme is proposed as a result of an intense activity of academic cooperation of the authors (from the University of Naples Federico II) with the research group of Uwe Schröder (RWTH Aachen University in Germany). The main innovation, if referred to the Italian tradition, is that the city is now observed not only from the point of view of the ‘form’ but also considering the ‘space’: thus, the different qualities of the spaces that build every city and its wealth. The ‘results’ of this research are in the projects that the authors develop on different academic occasions; in fact, in Architecture, theory and practice are strictly connected. This is the reason why two projects are described at the end of the study in order to demonstrate that only a disciplinary knowledge of the city can produce its responsible modification, while more general ‘Conclusions’ define the innovation that the study proposes to the debate on Urban Morphology.
What Role Do Urban Parks Play in Forming a Sense of Place? Lessons for Geodesign Using Social Media
Authors: Zeng Yijun , Deal Brian
Published: October 2023

The sense of place is a multidimensional construct that evokes an emotional commitment to a specific geographic setting. It can be a crucial aspect of cultural ecosystem services. While social media has gained popularity as a tool for assessing ecosystem services, its effectiveness in capturing a sense of place, its impact on cultural ecosystem services, and its role in the landscape design process remains less certain. This study investigates the role of urban parks in shaping the sense of place by analyzing user-generated content from a specific social media platform (Twitter). We gathered tweets from 30 diverse urban parks in Chicago, covering various park types, sizes, shapes, and management styles. Our analysis reveals multiple facets of the sense of place associated with urban parks. We suggest that a sense of place is not solely rooted in the attachment to physical surroundings but also in the personal experiences individuals encounter within these spaces. Residents residing near parks tend to develop a sense of ownership and responsibility, leading to stronger emotional bonds with their environment. Urban parks foster community engagement, enhance social cohesion, and offer opportunities for nature-based experiences. Furthermore, this study underscores the significance of diverse park features, accessibility, and size in bolstering place attachment. Our research demonstrates the potential for geoinformation analysis in the geodesign process as a cost-effective and scalable approach for understanding the person–place connection.
Interannual Variation and Control Factors of Soil Respiration in Xeric Shrubland and Agricultural Sites from the Chihuahuan Desert, Mexico
Authors: Guillen-Cruz Gabriela , Campuzano Emmanuel F. , Juárez-Altamirano René , López-García Karla Liliana , Torres-Arreola Roberto , Flores-Rentería Dulce
Published: October 2023

Arid and semi-arid ecosystems dominate the RS variability due to the multiple changing factors that control it. Consequently, any variation, in addition to climate change and land use change, impacts the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere. Here, the effect of the interannual variation and the controlling factors of RS in native xeric shrublands and agricultural systems is investigated. This study was conducted in four sites per condition for two years (2019 to 2020), where RS and the soil properties were measured. The RS presented a higher variation in the xeric shrubland. The agricultural plots showed the highest RS (0.33 g CO2 m−2 hr−1) compared to the xeric shrubland (0.12 g CO2 m−2 hr−1). The soil water content was the main controlling variable for RS in both land uses. However, soil temperature affected RS only in agricultural plots. The variation in the RS under different land uses confirms that changes in the soil and environmental conditions (i.e., season) control the RS. In addition, if current management practices are maintained in agricultural sites and under a temperature increase scenario, a significant increase in the RS rate is expected.
Coordination Challenges in Wind Energy Development: Lessons from Cross-Case Positive Planning Approaches to Avoid Multi-Level Governance ‘Free-Riding’
Authors: Weber Jessica
Published: October 2023

Achieving national targets on renewable energy poses several challenges, especially in multi-level governance environments. Incentives and specifications on wind energy development might cause uneven progress or even discrepancies. Therefore, governments have commenced adopting ‘positive planning’ to combine energy targets with spatial and land-use planning. Yet detailed discussions regarding wind energy development remain scarce. In this paper, I explore three explanatory case studies in Germany and Sweden, aiming to provide policymakers and planners with essential knowledge while presenting significant challenges and key lessons learned. Positive planning appears to center on a strong energy target focus, limited space, and a balanced approach, shaped by the sociopolitical context. While Germany has recently embraced positive planning, Sweden started ambitiously but is encountering planning and policy challenges. Planning agencies play a vital role in promoting wind energy targets at mid-scale levels, yet legally binding targets matter. Striking a balance between energy targets and addressing land-use concerns without disregarding them requires managing a delicate trade-off. Early communication and inter-agency collaboration, as seen in Sweden, might facilitate identifying compromises, navigating trade-offs between species protection and renewable energy and offering municipal incentives. Nonetheless, negotiating satisfactory spatial trade-offs for a long-term proof of concept remains a challenge.
Comprehensive Evaluation of End-Point Free Energy Techniques in Carboxylated-Pillar[6]arene Host-Guest Binding: IV. The QM Treatment, GB Models and the Multi-Trajectory Extension
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Wang Mao , Sun Zhaoxi
Published: October 2023

Due to the similarity of host–guest complexes and protein–ligand and protein–protein assemblies, computational tools for protein–drug complexes are commonly applied in host–guest binding. One of the methods with the highest popularity is the end-point free energy technique, which estimates the binding affinity with gas-phase and solvation contributions extracted from simplified end-point sampling. Our series papers on a set of carboxylated-pillararene host–guest complexes have proven with solid numerical evidence that standard end-point techniques are practically useless in host–guest binding, but alterations, such as slightly increasing interior dielectric constant in post-processing calculation and shifting to the multi-trajectory realization in conformational sampling, could better the situation and pull the end-point method back to the pool of usable tools. Also, the force-field selection plays a critical role, as it determines the sampled region in the conformational space. In the current work, we continue the efforts to explore potentially promising end-point modifications in host–guest binding and further extend the sampling time to an unprecedent length. Specifically, we comprehensively benchmarked the shift from the original MM description to QM Hamiltonians in post-processing the popular single-trajectory sampling. Two critical settings in the multi-scale QM/GBSA regime are the selections of the QM Hamiltonian and the implicit-solvent model, and a scan of combinations of popular semi-empirical QM Hamiltonians and GB models is performed. The multi-scale QM/GBSA treatment is further combined with the three-trajectory sampling protocol, introducing a further advanced modification. The sampling lengths in the host–guest complex, solvated guest and solvated host ensembles are extended to 500 ns, 500 ns and 12,000 ns. As a result, the sampling quality in end-point calculations is unprecedently high, enabling us to draw conclusive pictures of investigated forms of modified end-point free energy methods. Numerical results suggest that the shift to the QM Hamiltonian does not better the situation in the popular single-trajectory regime, but noticeable improvements are observed in the three-trajectory sampling regime, especially for the DFTB/GBSA parameter combination (either DFTB2 or its third-order extension), the quality metrics of which reach an unprecedently high level and surpass existing predictions (including costly alchemical transformations) on this dataset, hinting on the applicability of the advanced three-trajectory QM/GBSA end-point modification for host–guest complexes.
Shifting Paradigms: The Case of Autologous Reconstitution after an Upfront Matched Unrelated Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Severe Acquired Aplastic Anemia in a Child
Authors: Pochon Cécile , Lubnau Marion , Pagliuca Simona
Published: October 2023

During the last few years, the therapeutic landscape of idiopathic aplastic anemia (IAA) has been profoundly revolutionized by the increased use of alternative transplant procedures, such that today hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) from a matched unrelated donor (MUD) has been suggested as a possible first line strategy in pediatric patients with severe IAA, in the absence of a matched related donor. However, in this particular context, outcomes and early and long-term toxicities remain to be determined, as compared to non-transplant procedures. While prospective trials are ongoing, we report here the case of a 12-year-old boy with IAA, receiving an upfront bone marrow HCT from a MUD, who experienced early graft rejection associated with autologous hematological recovery, which could induce remission of his hemopathy. This case offers the opportunity to discuss the challenges associated with these new transplant paradigms and provides a brief review of the literature regarding the issue of autologous recoveries after allogeneic HCT in IAA.
Research on the Electrodeposition of Graphene Quantum Dots under Supercritical Conditions to Enhance Nickel-Based Composite Coatings
Authors: Li Yahan , Lei Weining , Li Zhixian , Qian Haifeng , Fang Cong , He Bin
Published: October 2023

A graphene quantum dots (GQDs)-reinforced nickel-based composite coating was electrodeposited on the surface of a copper plate with a supercritical carbon dioxide fluid (SC-CO2)-assisted DC power supply. The effect of the current density on surface morphology, microstructure, average grain size, hardness, and corrosion resistance of the resulting coatings was investigated in detail. It was found that the GQDs composite coating showed a more compact surface, a smaller grain size, higher microhardness, and stronger corrosion resistance than the pure Ni coating produced in SC-CO2 and a texture coefficient indicative of a (111) preferred orientation. When the current density was 8 A/dm2, the surface morphology of the GQDs composite coating showed a high density, and the grain size was about 23 nm. In addition, the micro-hardness and corrosion resistance of the GQDs composite coating was greatly improved compared with those of the pure nickel coating; at the same time, its wear rate, friction coefficient, and self-corrosion current density were decreased by 73.2%, 17.5%, and 9.2%, respectively.
The Metabolomic Characteristics and Dysregulation of Fatty Acid Esters of Hydroxy Fatty Acids in Breast Cancer
Authors: Qin Linlin , An Na , Yuan Bifeng , Zhu Quanfei , Feng Yuqi
Published: October 2023

Lipid reprogramming metabolism is crucial for supporting tumor growth in breast cancer and investigating potential tumor biomarkers. Fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs) are a class of endogenous lipid metabolites with anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties that have been discovered in recent years. Our previous targeted analysis of sera from breast cancer patients revealed a significant down-regulation of several FAHFAs. In this study, we aimed to further explore the relationship between FAHFAs and breast cancer by employing chemical isotope labeling combined with liquid chromatography−mass spectrometry (CIL-LC-MS) for profiling of FAHFAs in tumors and adjacent normal tissues from breast cancer patients. Statistical analysis identified 13 altered isomers in breast cancer. These isomers showed the potential to distinguish breast cancer tissues with an area under the curve (AUC) value above 0.9 in a multivariate receiver operating curve model. Furthermore, the observation of up-regulated 9-oleic acid ester of hydroxy stearic acid (9-OAHSA) and down-regulated 9-hydroxystearic acid (9-HSA) in tumors suggests that breast cancer shares similarities with colorectal cancer, and their potential mechanism is to attenuate the effects of pro-apoptotic 9-HSA by enhancing the synthesis of FAHFAs, thereby promoting tumor survival and progression through this buffering system.
Supplementing Low-Sodium Bicarbonate–Calcic (Lete)® Water: Effects in Women on Bone and Systemic Metabolism
Authors: Marino Carmen , Pagano Imma , Castaldo Giuseppe , Grimaldi Manuela , D’Elia Maria , Santoro Angelo , Conte Aurelio , Molettieri Paola , Parisella Chiara , Buonocore Michela , D’Ursi Anna Maria , Rastrelli Luca
Published: October 2023

Calcium (Ca) represents about 40% of the total mineral mass, mainly in the bone, providing mechanical strength to the skeleton and teeth. An adequate Ca intake is necessary for bone growth and development in children and adolescents and for maintaining bone mineral loss in elderly age. Ca deficiency predisposes to osteopenia and osteoporosis. Healthy nutrition, including an adequate intake of Ca-rich food, is paramount to prevent and cure osteoporosis. Recently, several clinical studies have demonstrated that, in conditions of Ca dysmetabolism, Ca-rich mineral water is beneficial as a valuable source of Ca to be used as an alternative to caloric Ca-rich dairy products. Although promising, these data have been collected from small groups of participants. Moreover, they mainly regard the effect of Ca-rich mineral water on bone metabolism. In contrast, an investigation of the effect of Ca supplementation on systemic metabolism is needed to address the spreading of systemic metabolic dysfunction often associated with Ca dysmetabolism. In the present study, we analyzed urine and blood sera of 120 women in perimenopausal condition who were subjected for six months to 2l daily consumption of bicarbonate–calcium mineral water marketed under ®Lete. Remarkably, this water, in addition to being rich in calcium and bicarbonate, is also low in sodium. A complete set of laboratory tests was carried out to investigate whether the specific water composition was such to confirm the known therapeutic effects on bone metabolism. Second, but not least, urine and blood sera were analyzed using NMR-based metabolomic procedures to investigate, other than the action on Ca metabolism, potential system-wide metabolic effects. Our data show that Lete water is a valid supplement for compensating for Ca dysmetabolism and preserving bone health and integrity.
Simulation and Experimental Study on the Precision Molding of Irregular Vehicle Glass Components
Authors: Chen Zhijun , Hu Shunchang , Zhang Shengfei , Zhang Qingdong , Zhang Zhen , Ming Wuyi
Published: October 2023

The high level of stress and dimension deviation induced by glass molding are the main causes of the low yield rate of large, irregular glass components on vehicles. To solve this issue, a numerical model of large glass component molding was established in this study, which aimed to analyze the dominant factors of molding quality and achieve a synergistic balance between quality characteristics and energy consumption. The results show that molding temperature is the dominant factor affecting the energy consumption and residual stress, and the molding pressure is the main factor affecting the dimension deviation. Furthermore, the NSGA-II optimization algorithm was used to optimize the maximum residual stress, dimension deviation, and energy consumption with the numerical results. The combination of a heating rate of 1.95 °C/s, holding time of 158 s, molding temperature of 570 °C, molding pressure of 34 MPa, and cooling rate of 1.15 °C/s was determined to be the optimized scheme. The predictive error of the numerical result, based on the optimized scheme, was experimentally verified to be less than 20%. It proved the accuracy of the model in this study. These results can provide guidance for the subsequent precision molding of large, irregular glass components.
Analyzing the Performance of Millimeter Wave MIMO Antenna under Different Orientation of Unit Element
Authors: Islam Tanvir , Alsunaydih Fahad N. , Alsaleem Fahd , Alhassoon Khaled
Published: October 2023

In this paper, a compact and simplified geometry monopole antenna with high gain and wideband is introduced. The presented antenna incorporates a microstrip feedline and a circular patch with two circular rings of stubs, which are inserted into the reference circular patch antenna to enhance the bandwidth and return loss. Roger RT/Duroid 6002 is used as the material for the antenna, and has overall dimensions of WS × LS = 12 mm × 9 mm. Three designs of two-port MIMO configurations are derived from the reference unit element antenna. In the first design, the antenna element is placed parallel to the reference antenna, while in the second design, the element is placed orthogonal to the reference element of the antenna. In the third design, the antenna elements are adjusted to be opposite each other. In this study, we analyze the isolation between the MIMO elements with different arrangements of the elements. The MIMO configurations have dimensions of 15 mm × 26 mm for two of the cases and 15 mm × 28.75 mm for the third case. All three MIMO antennas are made using similar materials and have the same specifications as the single element antenna. Other significant MIMO parameters, including the envelope correlation coefficient (ECC), diversity gain (DG), channel capacity loss (CCL), and mean effective gain (MEG), are also researched. Additionally, the paper includes a table summarizing the assessment of this work in comparison to relevant literature. The results of this study indicate that the proposed antenna is well-suited for future millimeter wave applications operating at 28 GHz.
U–Pb Dating of Fibrous Dolomite in the Hydrothermal Dolostone of the Dengying Formation, Central Sichuan Basin, and Its Response to Supercontinent Breakup
Authors: Zheng Jiang , Wen Long , Ge Yuhui , Zhou Gang , Zhang Ya , Yan Wei , Jiang Huan , Zhang Zili , Xi Aihua
Published: October 2023

Super-deep drilling in the central Sichuan Basin encountered volcanic rocks of the Suxiong Formation, which are overlain by multiple hydrothermal alterations within the upper section of the Ediacaran Dengying Formation. This provides an excellent research opportunity to understand the pre-Cambrian hydrothermal activity and geological evolution of the western margin of the Yangtze Craton. Observations revealed the development of a series of hydrothermal dolomite aggregates characterized by the presence of brown sphalerite within fractures and pores of the carbonate rock. Microscopically, the dolomite exhibited fibrous columnar crystallization, forming radial bands with a gradual decrease in crystallization intensity from the center to the periphery. Cathodoluminescence analysis revealed the presence of approximately eight dolomite bands within the aggregate. U–Pb dating from the inner to outer bands yielded isotopic ages of 781 ± 12 Ma for the second band, 683 ± 12 Ma for the fifth, 562 ± 12 Ma for the sixth, and 545.4 ± 6.9 Ma for the seventh. The in situ rare earth element (REE) distribution patterns of the 781 and 683 Ma dolomite bands exhibited similarities. They both showed low total REE content (∑REE), with significant fractionation between light and heavy REEs. Additionally, they exhibited negative anomalies in cerium (Ce) and europium (Eu), while heavy REEs were relatively enriched. The dolomite bands at 562 and 545 Ma also exhibited similar REE characteristics, with low ∑REE and weak fractionation between light and heavy REEs. They also displayed distinct negative anomalies in Ce and Eu, indicating similar distribution patterns. These findings suggested that formation of the banded hydrothermal dolostone occurred during different tectonic events, and the presence of heavy REE-enriched hydrothermal fluids suggested a deep-seated origin. This study has provided preliminary evidence that the Dengying Formation, previously considered to be of the Ediacaran age, has undergone multiple episodes of deep-seated fluid infiltration and alteration since the Mesoproterozoic Era. Importantly, these events coincide with the rifting of the Rodinia and Pannotia supercontinents, aligning with their respective timeframes. This finding raises questions regarding the stratigraphic division and correlation of the formations in the deeply buried core area of the basin.
Main-Chain Benzoxazines Containing an Erythritol Acetal Structure: Thermal and Degradation Properties
Authors: Yang Huili , Du Yanqin , Zhang Guangshe , Han Ling , Zhang Longgui , Xu Riwei
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the bio-based raw material erythritol was used to introduce an acetal structure into the benzoxazine resins. The benzoxazine-based resins containing an erythritol acetal structure could be degraded in an acidic solution and were environmentally friendly thermosetting resins. Compounds and resins were characterized by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) analyses, and melting points were studied by a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC); the molecular weight was analyzed by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The dynamic mechanical properties and thermal stability of polybenzoxazine resins were studied by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) and a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), respectively. The thermal aging, wet-heat resistance, and degradation properties of polybenzoxazine resins were tested. The results showed that the polybenzoxazine resins synthesized in this paper had good thermal-oxidative aging, and wet-heat resistance and could be completely degraded in an acidic solution (55 °C DMF: water: 1 mol/L hydrochloric acid solution = 5:2:4 (v/v/v)).
Arthproliferins A–D, Four New Sesterterpenes from the Mangrove-Sediment-Derived Fungus Arthrinium sp. SCSIO41221
Authors: Yang Bin , Li Cuitian , Chen Ying , He Yanchun , She Jianglian , Zhou Xuefeng , Tao Huangming , Peng Bo
Published: October 2023

Four new sesterterpenes, arthproliferins A–D (1–4), together with four known derivatives, were isolated and characterized from the mangrove-sediment-derived fungus Arthrinium sp. SCSIO41221. Their structures were determined using detailed nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectroscopic (MS) analyses. Some of the isolated compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxicity in vitro. The results revealed that terpestacin (6) exhibited significant activity with an IC50 value of 20.3 μM, and compounds 2 and 5 were found to show weak inhibitory effects against U87MG-derived GSCs.
Real-Time Extension of TAO-DFT
Authors: Tsai Hung-Yi , Chai Jeng-Da
Published: October 2023

Thermally assisted occupation density functional theory (TAO-DFT) has been an efficient electronic structure method for studying the ground-state properties of large electronic systems with multi-reference character over the past few years. To explore the time-dependent (TD) properties of electronic systems (e.g., subject to an intense laser pulse), in this work, we propose a real-time (RT) extension of TAO-DFT, denoted as RT-TAO-DFT. Moreover, we employ RT-TAO-DFT to study the high-order harmonic generation (HHG) spectra and related TD properties of molecular hydrogen H2 at the equilibrium and stretched geometries, aligned along the polarization of an intense linearly polarized laser pulse. The TD properties obtained with RT-TAO-DFT are compared with those obtained with the widely used time-dependent Kohn–Sham (TDKS) method. In addition, issues related to the possible spin-symmetry breaking effects in the TD properties are discussed.
Enhancing Emission via Radiative Lifetime Manipulation in Ultrathin InGaN/GaN Quantum Wells: The Effects of Simultaneous Electric and Magnetic Fields, Thickness, and Impurity
Authors: En-nadir Redouane , Basyooni-M. Kabatas Mohamed A. , Tihtih Mohammed , Belaid Walid , Ez-zejjari Ilyass , Majda El Ghmari , El Ghazi Haddou , Sali Ahmed , Zorkani Izeddine
Published: October 2023

Ultra-thin quantum wells, with their unique charge confinement effects, are essential in enhancing the electronic and optical properties crucial for optoelectronic device optimization. This study focuses on theoretical investigations into radiative recombination lifetimes in nanostructures, specifically addressing both intra-subband (ISB: e-e) and band-to-band (BTB: e-hh) transitions within InGaN/GaN quantum wells (QWs). Our research unveils that the radiative lifetimes in ISB and BTB transitions are significantly influenced by external excitation, particularly in thin-layered QWs with strong confinement effects. In the case of ISB transitions (e-e), the recombination lifetimes span a range from 0.1 to 4.7 ns, indicating relatively longer durations. On the other hand, BTB transitions (e-hh) exhibit quicker lifetimes, falling within the range of 0.01 to 1 ns, indicating comparatively faster recombination processes. However, it is crucial to note that the thickness of the quantum well layer exerts a substantial influence on the radiative lifetime, whereas the presence of impurities has a comparatively minor impact on these recombination lifetimes. This research advances our understanding of transition lifetimes in quantum well systems, promising enhancements across optoelectronic applications, including laser diodes and advanced technologies in detection, sensing, and telecommunications.
Association between Lipids, Apolipoproteins and Telomere Length: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Zhu Gehua , Xu Jiamin , Guo Guanghua , Zhu Feng
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: The relationship between lipids, apolipoproteins, and telomere length (TL) has been explored in previous studies; however, the causal relationship between the two remains unclear. This study aims to assess the causal relationship between lipids, apolipoproteins, and TL using the two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach; (2) Methods: This study comprehensively employed both univariate MR (uvMR) and multivariate MR (mvMR) methods to genetically evaluate the associations between 21 exposures related to lipids and apolipoproteins and the outcome of TL. During the analysis process, we utilized various statistical methods, including Inverse Variance Weighting (IVW), Weighted Median, MR-Egger regression, MR-PRESSO, and outlier tests. Furthermore, to confirm the robustness of the results, we conducted several sensitivity analyses to explore potential heterogeneity; (3) Results: The uvMR analysis indicated that an increase in MUFA, MUFA/FA ratio, LDL-C, VLDL-C, total cholesterol, ApoB, and triglycerides (TG) was associated with an increase in TL. However, this relationship did not manifest in the mvMR analysis, suggesting that this association may be based on preliminary evidence; (4) Conclusions: MR analysis results suggest potential suggestive positive causal relationships between genetically predicted MUFA, MUFA/FA ratio, LDL-C, VLDL-C, total cholesterol, ApoB, and TG with TL.
Effects of Nutritional Interventions on Athletic Performance
Authors: Toon Ampe , Bailey Stephen , Roelands Bart
Published: October 2023

The search to comprehend the fundamental physiological factors that contribute to the exceptional endurance performance of elite human athletes is a long-standing endeavor within the field of sports science research [...]
Rifaximin Ameliorates Loperamide-Induced Constipation in Rats through the Regulation of Gut Microbiota and Serum Metabolites
Authors: Luo Mei , Xie Peiwei , Deng Xuehong , Fan Jiahui , Xiong Lishou
Published: October 2023

Structural changes in the gut microbiota are closely related to the development of functional constipation, and regulating the gut microbiota can improve constipation. Rifaximin is a poorly absorbed antibiotic beneficial for regulating gut microbiota, but few studies have reported its effects on constipation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of rifaximin on loperamide-induced constipation in SD rats. The results showed that rifaximin improved constipation by increasing serum 5-HT, SP, and the mRNA expression of AQP3, AQP8, and reducing the mRNA expression of TLR2 and TLR4. In addition, rifaximin could regulate the gut microbiota of constipated rats, such as increasing the potentially beneficial bacteria Akkermansia muciniphila and Lactobacillus murinus, reducing the Bifidobacterium pseudolongum. According to metabolomics analysis, many serum metabolites, including bile acids and steroids, were changed in constipated rats and were recovered via rifaximin intervention. In conclusion, rifaximin might improve loperamide-induced constipation in rats by increasing serum excitatory neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, modulating water metabolism, and facilitating intestinal inflammation. Muti-Omics analysis results showed that rifaximin has beneficial regulatory effects on the gut microbiota and serum metabolites in constipated rats, which might play critical roles in alleviating constipation. This study suggests that rifaximin might be a potential strategy for treating constipation.
Methylliberine Ingestion Improves Various Indices of Affect but Not Cognitive Function in Healthy Men and Women
Authors: La Monica Michael B. , Raub Betsy , Malone Keeley , Hartshorn Shelley , Grdic Jodi , Gustat Ashley , Sandrock Jennifer
Published: October 2023

This study assessed the acute effects of oral methylliberine (DynamineTM) supplementation on cognitive function and indices of well-being. This was a double-blind, randomized, within-subject crossover trial. In total, 25 healthy men and women (33.5 ± 10.7 yr, 172.7 ± 8.6 cm, 73.3 ± 11.0 kg) underwent pretesting before ingesting methylliberine (100 mg) or a placebo (PLA) for 3 days. On the fourth day, the participants were tested before their fourth dose (baseline) and every hour post-ingestion for 3 h. After a one-week washout period, the participants repeated testing with the alternate investigational product. The testing battery consisted of vitals, Stroop test, Trail Making Test-B, and visual analog scales that assessed various indices of well-being. Mixed factorial ANOVAs with repeated measures were used to assess all variables. There were significant (p ≤ 0.050) interactions in terms of concentration, motivation, and mood. Methylliberine improved concentration at 1 and 3 h, motivation at 3 h, and mood at 1, 2, and 3 h (p ≤ 0.050). Methylliberine improved energy, sustained energy, and mood in all participants to a greater extent than PLA at 1 h and 3 h relative to baseline (p ≤ 0.050). PLA improved motivation at 1 and 2 h and mood at 2 h (p ≤ 0.050). Methylliberine improved concentration, well-being, and the ability to tolerate stress to a greater extent than PLA at 3 h relative to baseline (p ≤ 0.050). Women observed elevations in sustained energy at 1 and 3 h (p ≤ 0.050) with methylliberine vs. PLA. Methylliberine had a negligible influence on cognitive function and vitals (p > 0.050), and no adverse events were reported. Methylliberine significantly improved subjective feelings of energy, concentration, motivation, and mood, but not cognitive function. PLA improved motivation and mood at hours 1 and 2, while methylliberine sustained these benefits for longer. Methylliberine also improved concentration, well-being, and the ability to tolerate stress to a greater degree than PLA, while having no detrimental effects on vital signs. Methylliberine also seemed to have a positive impact on sustained energy in women.