bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness and Safety of Xen Gel Stent in Glaucoma Surgery: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Traverso Carlo Enrico , Carassa Roberto G. , Fea Antonio Maria , Figus Michele , Astarita Carlo , Piergentili Benedetta , Vera Vanessa , Gandolfi Stefano
Published: August 2023

Although topical medical therapy and selective-laser-trabeculoplasty represent the treatments of choice to reduce intraocular pressure, many patients do not achieve adequate glaucoma control; therefore, they require further options and eventually surgery. Trabeculectomy is still considered the gold standard, but the surgical management of glaucoma has undergone continuous advances in recent years, XEN-gel-stent has been introduced as a safer and less traumatic means of lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG). This study aimed to review the effectiveness and safety of clinical data on XEN-stent in OAG patients with a Synthesis-Without-Meta-analysis (SWiM) methodology. A total of 339 studies were identified following a literature search adhering to PRISMA guidelines and, after evaluation, 96 studies are discussed. XEN63 and XEN45 device data were collected both short and long term. In addition, this document has evaluated different aspects related to the XEN implant, including: its role compared to trabeculectomy; the impact of mitomycin-C dose on clinical outcomes; postoperative management of the device; and the identification of potential factors that might predict its clinical outcomes. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives of XEN stent, such as its use in fragile or high myopia patients, were discussed.
Primary Ventral Hernia Repair and the Risk of Postoperative Small Bowel Obstruction: Intra Versus Extraperitoneal Mesh
Authors: Goullieux Marine , Abo-Alhassan Fawaz , Vieira-Da-Silva Remi , Lauranne Papet , Guiraud Adeline , Ortega-Deballon Pablo
Published: August 2023

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the likelihood of bowel obstruction according to the placement of the mesh (either intraperitoneal or extraperitoneal) in ventral hernia repairs. Materials and methods: Patients were divided into two groups, an intraperitoneal (IP) group (mesh placed by laparoscopy or with an open approach) and an extraperitoneal (EP) group, all operated on in the Digestive Surgery Department at the Dijon University Hospital. The primary outcome was the occurrence of an episode of bowel obstruction requiring hospitalization and confirmed by abdominal CT scan. Results: Between March 2008 and July 2021, 318 patients were included, with 99 patients in the EP group (71 meshes placed preperitoneally and 28 placed retromuscularly) and 219 patients in the IP group (175 patients operated on laparoscopically versus 44 patients by direct approach). Three patients presented an episode of acute intestinal obstruction, with no difference between the two groups (p = 0.245), although all bowel obstructions occurred in the IP group and with the laparoscopic approach (1.7% of patients operated on by laparoscopy). The occlusive events occurred at 1 month, 2 years, and 3 years. There was no difference in terms of recurrence or postoperative chronic pain. There were more seroma and mesh infections in the EP group (p < 0.05). Two patients operated on by laparoscopy had undetected bowel injuries, prompting emergent surgery for peritonitis. Conclusions: No statistically significant difference was found in terms of bowel obstruction between the intraperitoneal and the extraperitoneal position, but all cases of obstruction happened in the intraperitoneal mesh group. Visceral lesions remain a major complication of the laparoscopic approach that should not be neglected.
The Polarized Light Field Enables Underwater Unmanned Vehicle Bionic Autonomous Navigation and Automatic Control
Authors: Cheng Haoyuan , Chen Qi , Zeng Xiangwei , Yuan Haoxun , Zhang Linjie
Published: August 2023

In response to the critical need for autonomous navigation capabilities of underwater vehicles independent of satellites, this paper studies a novel navigation and control method based on underwater polarization patterns. We propose an underwater course angle measurement algorithm and develop underwater polarization detection equipment. By establishing the automatic control model of an ROV (Remote Operated Vehicle) with polarization information, we develop a strapdown navigation method combining polarization and inertial information. We verify the feasibility of angle measurement based on polarization in the water tank. The measurement accuracy of polarization azimuth is less than 0.69°. Next, we conduct ROV navigation at different water depths in a real underwater environment. At a depth of 5 m, the MSE (Mean Square Error) and SD (Standard Deviation) of angle error are 16.57° and 4.07°, respectively. Underwater navigation accuracy of traveling 100 m is better than 5 m within a depth of 5 m. Key technologies such as underwater polarization detection, multi-source information fusion, and the ROV automatic control model with polarization have been broken through. This method can effectively improve ROV underwater work efficiency and accuracy.
A Review of Candidates for a Validation Data Set for High-Assay Low-Enrichment Uranium Fuels
Authors: DeHart Mark D. , Bess John Darrell , Ilas Germina
Published: August 2023

Many advanced reactor concept designs rely on high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) fuel, enriched up to approximately 19.75% 235U by weight. Efforts are underway by the US government to increase HALEU production in the United States to meet anticipated needs. However, very few data exist for validation of computational models that include HALEU, beyond a few fresh fuel benchmark specifications in the International Reactor Physics Experiment Evaluation Project. Nevertheless, there are other data with potential value available for developing into quality benchmarks for use in data- and software-validation efforts. This paper reviews the available evaluated HALEU fuel benchmarks and some of the potentially relevant benchmarks for fresh highly enriched uranium. It then introduces experimental data for HALEU fuel irradiated at Idaho National Laboratory, from relatively recent irradiation programs at the Advanced Test Reactor. Such data should be evaluated and, if valuable, collected into detailed benchmark specifications to meet the needs of HALEU-based reactor designers.
Large-Scale Field Cultivation of Morchella and Relevance of Basic Knowledge for Its Steady Production
Authors: Liu Wei , He Peixin , Shi Xiaofei , Zhang Ya , Perez-Moreno Jesus , Yu Fuqiang
Published: August 2023

Morels are one of the most highly prized edible and medicinal mushrooms worldwide. Therefore, historically, there has been a large international interest in their cultivation. Numerous ecological, physiological, genetic, taxonomic, and mycochemical studies have been previously developed. At the beginning of this century, China finally achieved artificial cultivation and started a high-scale commercial development in 2012. Due to its international interest, its cultivation scale and area expanded rapidly in this country. However, along with the massive industrial scale, a number of challenges, including the maintenance of steady economic profits, arise. In order to contribute to the solution of these challenges, formal research studying selection, species recognition, strain aging, mating type structure, life cycle, nutrient metabolism, growth and development, and multi-omics has recently been boosted. This paper focuses on discussing current morel cultivation technologies, the industrial status of cultivation in China, and the relevance of basic biological research, including, e.g., the study of strain characteristics, species breeding, mating type structure, and microbial interactions. The main challenges related to the morel cultivation industry on a large scale are also analyzed. It is expected that this review will promote a steady global development of the morel industry based on permanent and robust basic scientific knowledge.
Does Labor Transfer Improve Farmers’ Willingness to Withdraw from Farming?—A Bivariate Probit Modeling Approach
Authors: Ding Xiuling , Lu Qian , Li Lipeng , Sarkar Apurbo , Li Hua
Published: August 2023

Because of the increased expansion of the non-agricultural industry spurred on by vigorous urbanization, labor migration or transfer from farm to urban regions is to become more predominant in China. Studying the effect of labor transfer on farmers’ willingness to withdraw from land is conducive to deepening the understanding of the reality of the “separation of human and farmland”. As most rural livelihoods, directly and indirectly, depend upon farming, the socio-economic impact of leaving the homestead fosters profound research value. Moreover, it would provide a decision-making reference for the government to improve the design of the rural land withdrawal system and related support policies. This article uses the survey data of 953 farmers in Shaanxi, Sichuan, and Anhui, China, to empirically analyze labor transfer’s effect on farmers’ willingness to withdraw from farmland. We construct a bivariate Probit model by eliminating the endogenous issue to craft its findings. This study outlines its findings: (i) 61.805% of the farmers were unwilling, and 18.048% were willing to withdraw from the contracted land and homestead. While 12.067% of the farmers were only willing to withdraw from the contracted land, 8.080% of the farmers were only willing to withdraw from the homestead. Further testing found a positive correlation between farmers’ willingness to withdraw from contracted land and the homestead. (ii) The overall labor transfer of households can increase the willingness of farmers to quit contracted land and homestead farming. The incomplete labor transfer of households can improve the willingness of farmers to quit contracted land. Still, it has no significant impact on the willingness of farmers to quit their homesteads. The family’s complete labor transfer incentivizes farmers’ willingness to withdraw from contracted land and the homestead, which is more potent than incomplete family labor transfer. (iii) Incomplete labor transfer of female households has an incentive effect on farmers’ willingness to quit contracted land, and the effect is more robust than that of incomplete household labor transfer. Seemingly, complete female labor transfer of households has an incentive effect on farmers’ willingness to quit contracted land and the homestead, and the effect is stronger than the complete labor transfer of the family. Because of this, the government should respect the wishes of farmers and strengthen the effective connection and mutual promotion between the homestead and contracted land withdrawal policy. Moreover, pay concentrated attention to the vital role of different types of labor transfer, and targeted labor transfer mechanisms should be used to guide farmers in an orderly manner.
Toeing the Party Line: Indexicality and Regional Andalusian Phonetic Features in Political Speech
Authors: Pollock Matthew
Published: August 2023

Performative style is an important sociolinguistic variable among politicians, who accomplish agentive goals through speech. Examining 32 Spanish politicians, this article focuses on four Andalusian Spanish phenomena: the fronting of /t͡ʃ/ and the deletion of coda /s/, resyllabified intervocalic onset /s/, and intervocalic /d/. The analysis first looks at overall community production norms for the variants then turns to examine the style-shifting patterns of one individual who deviates from these norms. This individual is examined through a consideration of lectal focusing in interaction to track moment-by-moment variation. While coda /s/ and intervocalic /d/ deletion show usage patterns governed by regional and contextual factors, the deletion of onset /s/ and fronted /t͡ʃ/ reflect social variation and style-shifting. While politicians do not blindly follow partisan norms, normative expectations exist at the regional level that they can choose to depart from due to individual motivations and political affiliation in order to carry out identity work. This study combines quantitative examinations of community and individual variation to contribute to our understanding of style-shifting behavior in political speech and how politicians use linguistic tools to take on oppositional identities in the public sphere.
Speciation on the Roof of the World: Parallel Fast Evolution of Cryptic Mole Vole Species in the Pamir-Alay—Tien Shan Region
Authors: Bogdanov Aleksey , Tambovtseva Valentina , Matveevsky Sergey , Bakloushinskaya Irina
Published: August 2023

Speciation is not always accompanied by morphological changes; numerous cryptic closely related species were revealed using genetic methods. In natural populations of Ellobius tancrei (2n = 54–30) and E. alaicus (2n = 52–48) of the Pamir-Alay and Tien Shan, the chromosomal variability due to Robertsonian translocations has been revealed. Here, by comprehensive genetic analysis (karyological analyses as well as sequencing of mitochondrial genes, cytb and COI, and nuclear genes, XIST and IRBP) of E. alaicus and E. tancrei samples from the Inner Tien Shan, the Alay Valley, and the Pamir-Alay, we demonstrated fast and independent diversification of these species. We described an incompletely consistent polymorphism of the mitochondrial and nuclear markers, which arose presumably because of habitat fragmentation in the highlands, rapid karyotype changes, and hybridization of different intraspecific varieties and species. The most intriguing results are a low level of genetic distances calculated from mitochondrial and nuclear genes between some phylogenetic lines of E. tancrei and E. alaicus, as well significant species-specific chromosome variability in both species. The chromosomal rearrangements are what most clearly define species specificity and provide further diversification. The “mosaicism” and inconsistency in polymorphism patterns are evidence of rapid speciation in these mammals.
A Dietary and Lifestyle Intervention Improves Treatment Adherence and Clinical Outcomes in Overweight and Obese Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Bouloukaki Izolde , Daskalaki Eleni , Mavroudi Eleni , Moniaki Violeta , Schiza Sophia E. , Tsiligianni Ioanna
Published: August 2023

The study’s objective was to assess the impact of Mediterranean diet/lifestyle interventions for weight loss on positive airway pressure (PAP) adherence, body mass index (ΒΜΙ), sleepiness, and blood pressure measurements (BP) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). We designed a randomized, controlled trial, including overweight and obese patients with moderate to severe OSA, randomized to standard care (SCG, n = 37) or a Mediterranean diet group (MDG, n = 37). The SCG received healthy lifestyle advice, while the MDG underwent a 6-month behavioral intervention aiming to enhance weight loss and adherence to a Mediterranean diet. PAP adherence, BMI, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and BP measurements were evaluated pre- and post-intervention. Post-intervention PAP use was higher in the MDG compared to the SCG (6.1 vs. 5.4, p = 0.02). Diet/lifestyle intervention was one of the most significant predictive factors for PAP adherence (OR = 5.458, 95% CI = 1.144–26.036, p = 0.03). The SCG demonstrated a rise in BMI, while the MDG displayed a decline (0.41 vs. −0.75, p = 0.02). The MDG also demonstrated a substantial reduction in adjusted SBP (−5.5 vs. 2.8, p = 0.014) and DBP (−4.0 vs. 2.5, p = 0.01). Ultimately, incorporating a dietary/lifestyle intervention with standard care yields superior PAP adherence, BMI, and BP measurements in contrast to standard care alone, emphasizing the advantages of dedicating more time and support within the MDG.
A Hybrid Approach for Predicting Critical Machining Conditions in Titanium Alloy Slot Milling Using Feature Selection and Binary Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Rahmani Amirsajjad , Hojati Faramarz , Hadad Mohammadjafar , Azarhoushang Bahman
Published: August 2023

Monitoring the machining process is crucial for providing cost-effective, high-quality production and preventing unwanted accidents. This study aims to predict critical machining conditions related to surface roughness and tool breakage in titanium alloy slot milling. The Siemens SINUMERIK EDGE (SE) Box system collects signals from the spindle and axes of a CNC machine tool. In this study, features were extracted from signals in time, frequency, and time–frequency domains. The t-test and the binary whale optimization algorithm (BWOA) were applied to choose the best features and train the support vector machine (SVM) model with validation and training data. The SVM hyperparameters were optimized simultaneously with feature selection, and the model was tested with test data. The proposed model accurately predicted critical machining conditions for unbalanced datasets. The classification model indicates an average recall, precision, and accuracy of 80%, 86%, and 95%, respectively, when predicting workpiece quality and tool breakage.
Optimized Statistical Beamforming for Cooperative Spectrum Sensing in Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Al-Saggaf Ubaid M. , Ahmad Jawwad , Alrefaei Mohammed A. , Moinuddin Muhammad
Published: August 2023

In cognitive radio (CR), cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) employs a fusion of multiple decisions from various secondary user (SU) nodes at a central fusion center (FC) to detect spectral holes not utilized by the primary user (PU). The energy detector (ED) is a well-established technique of spectrum sensing (SS). However, a major challenge in designing an energy detector-based SS is the requirement of correct knowledge for the distribution of decision statistics. Usually, the Gaussian assumption is employed for the received statistics, which is not true in real practice, particularly with a limited number of samples. Another big challenge in the CSS task is choosing an optimal fusion strategy. To tackle these issues, we have proposed a beamforming-assisted ED with a heuristic-optimized CSS technique that utilizes a more accurate distribution of decision statistics by employing the characterization of the indefinite quadratic form (IQF). Two heuristic algorithms, genetic algorithm with multi-parent crossover (GA-MPC) and constriction factor particle swarm-based optimization (CF-PSO), are developed to design optimum beamforming and optimum fusion weights that can maximize the global probability of detection pd while constraining the global probability of false alarm pf to below a required level. The simulation results are presented to validate the theoretical findings and to asses the performance of the proposed algorithm.
Kato Chaos in Linear Dynamics
Authors: Jiao Lixin , Wang Lidong , Wang Heyong
Published: August 2023

This paper introduces the concept of Kato chaos to linear dynamics and its induced dynamics. This paper investigates some properties of Kato chaos for a continuous linear operator T and its induced operators T¯. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) If a linear operator is accessible, then the collection of vectors whose orbit has a subsequence converging to zero is a residual set. (2) For a continuous linear operator defined on Fréchet space, Kato chaos is equivalent to dense Li–Yorke chaos. (3) Kato chaos is preserved under the iteration of linear operators. (4) A sufficient condition is obtained under which the Kato chaos for linear operator T and its induced operators T¯ are equivalent. (5) A continuous linear operator is sensitive if and only if its inducing operator T¯ is sensitive. It should be noted that this equivalence does not hold for nonlinear dynamics.
Plasma Drug Values of DOACs in Patients Presenting with Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Bozic Dorotea , Alicic Damir , Martinovic Dinko , Zaja Ivan , Bilandzic-Ivisic Josipa , Sodan Rosana , Kresic Branka , Bratanic Andre , Puljiz Zeljko , Ardalic Zarko , Bozic Josko
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: Anticoagulants are a well-known risk factor for gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). In recent years, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have taken a leading role in the treatment and prevention of thromboembolic incidents. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of DOAC-treated patients with GIB whose plasma drug concentrations exceeded the cut-off values reported in the literature and to evaluate their clinical characteristics. Materials and Methods: Patients who were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit in the period 2/2020–3/2022 due to GIB were prospectively included in the study and classified into three groups according to the prescribed type of DOAC (apixaban, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran). For all participants, it was determined if the measured plasma drug levels exceeded the maximum serum concentration (Cmax) or trough serum concentration (Ctrough) obtained from the available data. A comparison of clinical parameters between the patients with and without excess drug values was performed. Results: There were 90 patients (54.4% men) included in the study, of whom 27 were treated with dabigatran, 24 with apixaban, and 39 with rivaroxaban. According to Cmax, there were 34 (37.8%), and according to Ctrough, there were 28 (31.1%) patients with excess plasma drug values. A statistically significant difference regarding excess plasma drug values was demonstrated between DOACs according to both Cmax (p = 0.048) and Ctrough (p < 0.001), with the highest rate in the group treated with dabigatran (55.6% for Cmax and 59.3% for Ctrough). Multivariate logistic regression showed that age (OR 1.177, p = 0.049) is a significant positive and glomerular filtration rate (OR 0.909, p = 0.016) is a negative predictive factor for excess plasma drug values. A total of six (6.7%) patients had fatal outcomes. Conclusions: Plasma drug concentrations exceed cut-off values reported in the literature in more than one-third of patients with GIB taking DOAC, with the highest rate in the dabigatran group. Clinicians should be more judicious when prescribing dabigatran to the elderly and patients with renal failure. In these patients, dose adjustment, plasma drug monitoring, or substitution with other, more appropriate DOACs should be considered.
The Co-Occurrence of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Depression in Individuals with and without Traumatic Brain Injury: A Comprehensive Investigation
Authors: Simonovic Maja , Nedovic Bojan , Radisavljevic Misa , Stojanovic Nikola
Published: August 2023

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent psychiatric disorder that often occurs following war trauma. Despite its high prevalence, there is still a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the mechanisms underlying its progression and treatment resistance. Recent research has shed light on the biological basis of PTSD, with neuroimaging studies revealing altered brain connectivity patterns in affected individuals. In war contexts, traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common occurrence and is associated with a high prevalence of PTSD. This study aimed to compare the severity of PTSD and depression in patients with and without a history of TBI to shed light on the impact of comorbid TBI on the presentation of PTSD symptoms. To achieve this goal, a cross-sectional study was conducted involving a sample of 60 outpatients who were diagnosed with both PTSD and Depressive Disorder. The inclusion criteria required participants to meet the diagnostic criteria for both disorders using validated tools. The severities of PTSD and depressive symptoms were assessed using scales that have been widely used and validated in previous research. By utilizing these standardized assessment tools, this study aimed to ensure the reliability and validity of the obtained data. The results of this study revealed that patients with comorbid PTSD and TBI exhibited a significantly higher severity of PTSD symptoms compared to those with PTSD only. Specifically, the comorbid group demonstrated higher ratings of symptom intensity across all symptom clusters. These findings are consistent with previous research that has highlighted the impact of comorbid TBI on the intensity and persistence of PTSD symptoms. When controlling for PTSD severity, no significant differences were observed in the severity of depressive symptoms between the two groups. This suggests that the increased depressive symptoms observed in the comorbid group may be primarily driven by the presence of more intense PTSD symptoms rather than TBI per se. The findings highlight the need for an accurate diagnosis of TBI in individuals with PTSD to guide appropriate treatment interventions. Further research is warranted to delve into the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the interaction between TBI and PTSD and to develop targeted interventions for individuals with comorbid PTSD and TBI.
Circumflex Coronary Artery Injury during Modern Mitral Valve Surgery—A Review of Current Concepts and Perspectives
Authors: van der Merwe Johan , Casselman Filip
Published: August 2023

The devastating impact of a circumflex coronary artery (CX) injury during mitral valve (MV) surgery is well reported. Despite significant improvements in preoperative risk assessment, intraoperative diagnosis and perioperative treatment strategies of CX injury during MV surgery, recent reports re-emphasize the variability in presentation, the unpredictable mechanisms of injury and the conflicting evidence regarding perioperative management. The progressive transition from conventional sternotomy access to minimally invasive surgical and transcatheter (TC) interventions for MV disease are associated with significant learning curves and require additional single-shaft and robotic console suture manipulation skills with special attentiveness to the potential risk of CX injury. The introduction of hybrid theatres that facilitate single stage surgical and TC interventions also provides new intraoperative diagnostic and therapeutic options without transporting unstable patients for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) assessment. By utilizing a MeSH terms-based PubMed search, a total of 89 patients with CX injury that occurred during MV surgery was identified from 49 reports between 1967 and 2022. MV surgery was performed by conventional sternotomy (n = 76, 85.4%), endoscopic (n = 12, 13.4%) and robotic access (n = 1, 1.1%), with 35 injuries (39.3%) resulting in total CX occlusion. Rescue PCI was utilized in 40 patients (44.9%). This manuscript provides a systematic overview of all available historic and contemporary reports on CX injury during MV surgery, outlines recent refinements in CX injury mechanisms, describes current MV surgery associated CX injury prevention and diagnosis and treatment strategies and highlights important MV procedural aspects that may minimize the risk and consequences of CX injury.
Impact of SARS-CoV-2-Related Hygiene Measures on Community-Acquired Respiratory Virus Infections in Lung Transplant Recipients in Switzerland
Authors: Baumann Isabelle , Hage René , Gasche-Soccal Paola , Aubert John-David , Schuurmans Macé M. ,   The Swiss Transplant Cohort Study
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: Community-acquired respiratory virus (CARV) infections pose a serious risk for lung transplant recipients (LTR) as they are prone to severe complications. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit Switzerland in 2020, the government implemented hygiene measures for the general population. We investigated the impact of these measures on the transmission of CARV in lung transplant recipients in Switzerland. Materials and Methods: In this multicenter, retrospective study of lung transplant recipients, we investigated two time periods: the year before the COVID-19 pandemic (1 March 2019–29 February 2020) and the first year of the pandemic (1 March 2020–28 February 2021). Data were mainly collected from the Swiss Transplant Cohort Study (STCS) database. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the results. Results: Data from 221 Swiss lung transplant cohort patients were evaluated. In the year before the COVID-19 pandemic, 157 infections were diagnosed compared to 71 infections in the first year of the pandemic (decline of 54%, p < 0.001). Influenza virus infections alone showed a remarkable decrease from 17 infections before COVID-19 to 2 infections after the beginning of the pandemic. No significant difference was found in testing behavior; 803 vs. 925 tests were obtained by two of the three centers during the respective periods. Conclusions: We observed a significant decline in CARV infections in the Swiss lung transplant cohort during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. These results suggest a relevant impact of hygiene measures when implemented in the population due to the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of CARV infections.
Microstructures and Electrical Resistivity of Aluminum–Copper Joints
Authors: Guo Jinchang , Li Chunkai , Bian Jianxiao , Zhang Jianrui , Geng Baolong
Published: August 2023

Using pulsed double electrode-gas metal arc welding, aluminum wires are joined to copper plates with fillers of different fractions of silicon. Two layers of different microstructures are formed near the Al-Cu interface: one consists of a hypoeutectic microstructure of α (Al) + Al2Cu, and the other consists of an intermetallic compound (IMC) of Al2Cu. Increasing the heat input causes increases in the thicknesses of the IMC layer and the layer of the hypoeutectic microstructure. Si suppresses the growth of the IMC layer and assists the growth of the layer of the hypoeutectic microstructure. The effects of the interface microstructures and chemical compositions on the electric resistivity of the joints are analyzed. The electric resistivity of the joints increases with the increase in the thicknesses of the IMC layer and the layer of the hypoeutectic microstructure. The law of mixture is used to calculate the electric resistivity of the joints, which is in accordance with the experimental results.
Diagnostic Value of Salivary Amino Acid Levels in Cancer
Authors: Bel’skaya Lyudmila V. , Sarf Elena A. , Loginova Alexandra I.
Published: August 2023

This review analyzed 21 scientific papers on the determination of amino acids in various types of cancer in saliva. Most of the studies are on oral cancer (8/21), breast cancer (4/21), gastric cancer (3/21), lung cancer (2/21), glioblastoma (2/21) and one study on colorectal, pancreatic, thyroid and liver cancer. The amino acids alanine, valine, phenylalanine, leucine and isoleucine play a leading role in the diagnosis of cancer via the saliva. In an independent version, amino acids are rarely used; the authors combine either amino acids with each other or with other metabolites, which makes it possible to obtain high values of sensitivity and specificity. Nevertheless, a logical and complete substantiation of the changes in saliva occurring in cancer, including changes in salivary amino acid levels, has not yet been formed, which makes it important to continue research in this direction.
Copper Wire Bonding: A Review
Authors: Zhou Hongliang , Chang Andong , Fan Junling , Cao Jun , An Bin , Xia Jie , Yao Jingguang , Cui Xiaobin , Zhang Yingchong
Published: August 2023

This paper provides a comprehensive review on copper (Cu) wire bonding. Firstly, it introduces the common types of Cu wire available in the market, including bare Cu wire, coated Cu wire, insulated Cu wire, and alloyed Cu wire. For each type, their characteristics and application areas are discussed. Additionally, we provide detailed insights into the impact of Free Air Ball (FAB) morphology on bonding reliability, including its effect on bond strength and formation mechanisms. Next, the reliability of Cu wire bonding is analyzed, with a focus on the impact of intermetallic compounds and corrosion on bonding reliability. Specifically, the formation, growth, and stability of intermetallic compounds at bonding interfaces are discussed, and their effects on bonding strength and reliability are evaluated. The detrimental mechanisms of corrosion on Cu wire bonding and corrosion inhibition methods are also analyzed. Subsequently, the applications of simulation in Cu wire bonding are presented, including finite element analysis and molecular dynamics simulations, which provide important tools for a deeper understanding of the bonding process and failure mechanisms. Finally, the current development status of Cu wire bonding is summarized, and future research directions are discussed.
Self-Propulsion of Two Contacting Bubbles Due to the Radiation Interaction Force
Authors: Doinikov Alexander A. , Micol Thomas , Mauger Cyril , Blanc-Benon Philippe , Inserra Claude
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we consider a new bubble-based microswimmer composed of two contacting bubbles. Under the action of an acoustic field, both bubbles are oscillating, and locomotion of the two-bubble system is observed. A theory is developed that allows one to calculate the acoustic radiation interaction forces between two gas bubbles in an incompressible viscous liquid for any small separation distance between the bubbles. This theory is used to demonstrate that two acoustically excited bubbles can create a self-propelled microswimmer due to a nonzero net force experienced by the bubbles when they come in contact. Experimental evidence of the creation of such a swimmer and of its motion is provided.
Binding Specificity of a Novel Cyclo/Maltodextrin-Binding Protein and Its Role in the Cyclodextrin ABC Importer System from Thermoanaerobacterales
Authors: Aranda-Caraballo Jorge , Saenz Roberto A. , López-Zavala Alonso A. , Velazquez-Cruz Beatriz , Espinosa-Barrera Laura , Cárdenas-Conejo Yair , Zárate-Romero Andrés , Linares-Vergara Oscar , Osuna-Castro Juan A. , Bonales-Alatorre Edgar , Centeno-Leija Sara , Serrano-Posada Hugo
Published: August 2023

Extracellular synthesis of functional cyclodextrins (CDs) as intermediates of starch assimilation is a convenient microbial adaptation to sequester substrates, increase the half-life of the carbon source, carry bioactive compounds, and alleviate chemical toxicity through the formation of CD-guest complexes. Bacteria encoding the four steps of the carbohydrate metabolism pathway via cyclodextrins (CM-CD) actively internalize CDs across the microbial membrane via a putative type I ATP-dependent ABC sugar importer system, MdxEFG-(X/MsmX). While the first step of the CM-CD pathway encompasses extracellular starch-active cyclomaltodextrin glucanotransferases (CGTases) to synthesize linear dextrins and CDs, it is the ABC importer system in the second step that is the critical factor in determining which molecules from the CGTase activity will be internalized by the cell. Here, structure-function relationship studies of the cyclo⁄maltodextrin-binding protein MdxE of the MdxEFG-MsmX importer system from Thermoanaerobacter mathranii subsp. mathranii A3 are presented. Calorimetric and fluorescence studies of recombinant MdxE using linear dextrins and CDs showed that although MdxE binds linear dextrins and CDs with high affinity, the open-to-closed conformational change is solely observed after α- and β-CD binding, suggesting that the CM-CD pathway from Thermoanaerobacterales is exclusive for cellular internalization of these molecules. Structural analysis of MdxE coupled with docking simulations showed an overall architecture typically found in sugar-binding proteins (SBPs) that comprised two N- and C-domains linked by three small hinge regions, including the conserved aromatic triad Tyr193/Trp269/Trp378 in the C-domain and Phe87 in the N-domain involved in CD recognition and stabilization. Structural bioinformatic analysis of the entire MdxFG-MsmX importer system provided further insights into the binding, internalization, and delivery mechanisms of CDs. Hence, while the MdxE-CD complex couples to the permease subunits MdxFG to deliver the CD into the transmembrane channel, the dimerization of the cytoplasmatic promiscuous ATPase MsmX triggers active transport into the cytoplasm. This research provides the first results on a novel thermofunctional SBP and its role in the internalization of CDs in extremely thermophilic bacteria.
Multivariate Exploratory Analysis of the Bulgarian Soil Quality Monitoring Network
Authors: Yotova Galina , Hristova Mariana , Padareva Monika , Simeonov Vasil , Dinev Nikolai , Tsakovski Stefan
Published: August 2023

The goal of the present study is to assess the soil quality in Bulgaria using (i) an appropriate set of soil quality indicators, namely primary nutrients (C, N, P), acidity (pH), physical clay content and potentially toxic elements (PTEs: Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, Ni, Cr, As, Hg) and (ii) respective data mining and modeling using chemometrical and geostatistical methods. It has been shown that five latent factors are responsible for the explanation of nearly 70% of the total variance of the data set available (principal components analysis) and each factor is identified in terms of its contribution to the formation of the overall soil quality—the mountain soil factor, the geogenic factor, the ore deposit factor, the low nutrition factor, and the mercury-specific factor. The obtained soil quality patterns were additionally confirmed via hierarchical cluster analysis. The spatial distribution of the patterns throughout the whole Bulgarian territory was visualized via the mapping of the factor scores for all identified latent factors. The mapping of identified soil quality patterns was used to outline regions where additional measures for the monitoring of the phytoavailability of PTEs were required. The suggested regions are located near to thermoelectric power plants and mining and metal production facilities and are characterized by intensive agricultural activity.
Stabilization of Beeswax-In-Water Dispersions Using Anionic Cellulose Nanofibers and Their Application in Paper Coating
Authors: Bayés Genís , Aguado Roberto J. , Tarrés Quim , Planella Jaume , Delgado-Aguilar Marc
Published: August 2023

Beeswax is a bio-sourced, renewable, and even edible material that stands as a convincing option to provide paper-based food packaging with moisture resistance. Nonetheless, the difficulty of dispersing it in water limits its applicability. This work uses oxidized, negatively charged cellulose nanofibers along with glycerol to stabilize beeswax-in-water emulsions above the melting point of the wax. The synergistic effects of nanocellulose and glycerol granted the stability of the dispersion even when it cooled down, but only if the concentration of nanofibers was high enough. This required concentration (0.6–0.9 wt%) depended on the degree of oxidation of the cellulose nanofibers. Rheological hindrance was essential to prevent the buoyancy of beeswax particles, while the presence of glycerol prevented excessive aggregation. The mixtures had yield stress and showed pseudoplastic behavior at a high enough shear rate, with their apparent viscosity being positively influenced by the surface charge density of the nanofibers. When applied to packaging paper, the nanocellulose-stabilized beeswax suspensions not only enhanced its barrier properties towards liquid water (reaching a contact angle of 96°) and water vapor (<100 g m−2 d−1), but also to grease (Kit rating: 5) and airflow (>1400 Gurley s). While falling short of polyethylene-coated paper, this overall improvement, attained using only one layer of a biobased coating suspension, should be understood as a step towards replacing synthetic waxes and plastic laminates.
Vegetarians: Past, Present, and Future Regarding Their Diet Quality and Nutritional Status
Authors: Petermann-Rocha Fanny , Ho Frederick K.
Published: August 2023

The term “vegetarian” usually refers to individuals who exclude meat, fish, poultry and/or their derived products from their diet [...]
The Microbiome, Epigenome, and Diet in Adults with Obesity during Behavioral Weight Loss
Authors: Hill Emily B. , Konigsberg Iain R. , Ir Diana , Frank Daniel N. , Jambal Purevsuren , Litkowski Elizabeth M. , Lange Ethan M. , Lange Leslie A. , Ostendorf Danielle M. , Scorsone Jared J. , Wayland Liza , Bing Kristen , MacLean Paul S. , Melanson Edward L. , Bessesen Daniel H. , Catenacci Victoria A. , Stanislawski Maggie A. , Borengasser Sarah J.
Published: August 2023

Obesity has been linked to the gut microbiome, epigenome, and diet, yet these factors have not been studied together during obesity treatment. Our objective was to evaluate associations among gut microbiota (MB), DNA methylation (DNAme), and diet prior to and during a behavioral weight loss intervention. Adults (n = 47, age 40.9 ± 9.7 years, body mass index (BMI) 33.5 ± 4.5 kg/m2, 77% female) with data collected at baseline (BL) and 3 months (3 m) were included. Fecal MB was assessed via 16S sequencing and whole blood DNAme via the Infinium EPIC array. Food group and nutrient intakes and Healthy Eating Index (HEI) scores were calculated from 7-day diet records. Linear models were used to test for the effect of taxa relative abundance on DNAme and diet cross-sectionally at each time point, adjusting for confounders and a false discovery rate of 5%. Mean weight loss was 6.2 ± 3.9% at 3 m. At BL, one MB taxon, Ruminiclostridium, was associated with DNAme of the genes COL20A1 (r = 0.651, p = 0.029), COL18A1 (r = 0.578, p = 0.044), and NT5E (r = 0.365, p = 0.043). At 3 m, there were 14 unique MB:DNAme associations, such as Akkermansia with DNAme of GUSB (r = −0.585, p = 0.003), CRYL1 (r = −0.419, p = 0.007), C9 (r = −0.439, p = 0.019), and GMDS (r = −0.559, p = 0.046). Among taxa associated with DNAme, no significant relationships were seen with dietary intakes of relevant nutrients, food groups, or HEI scores. Our findings indicate that microbes linked to mucin degradation, short-chain fatty acid production, and body weight are associated with DNAme of phenotypically relevant genes. These relationships offer an initial understanding of the possible routes by which alterations in gut MB may influence metabolism during weight loss.
Occurrence of Leishmania infantum in Wild Mammals Admitted to Recovery Centers in Spain
Authors: Azami-Conesa Iris , Pérez-Moreno Paula , Matas Méndez Pablo , Sansano-Maestre Jose , González Fernando , Mateo Barrientos Marta , Gómez-Muñoz María Teresa
Published: August 2023

Zoonotic leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum is distributed worldwide and affects humans and domestic and wild mammals. In Europe, specifically in the Mediterranean basin, leishmaniasis is endemic due to the concurrence of the phlebotomine vectors and reservoir mammals, including carnivorous wildlife species and other less studied wild species. In this article, spleen, skin, and eye or oral swabs taken from 134 wild mammals admitted to five wildlife recovery centers in Spain were used. PCR employing fragments of the Repeat region, ITS1, and SSUrRNA were used for detection, and positive samples were processed for sequencing. L. infantum was detected in three out of the nine species analyzed, including European hedgehog, European badger, and red squirrel, with percentages ranging from 11.53 to 35.71%, depending on the species. Most of the species showed higher percentages of positivity in spleen samples than in skin samples. A small number of animals from the remaining six species tested negative, including Algerian hedgehog, stone marten, least weasel, garden dormouse, western polecat, and Egyptian mongoose. Hedgehogs and badgers are good candidates for consideration as epidemiological sentinels and pose a higher risk as potential reservoirs of leishmaniasis based on their percentage of infection and wide distribution.
Analysis of Giardia lamblia Nucleolus as Drug Target: A Review
Authors: Gaona-López Carlos , Martínez-Vázquez Ana Verónica , Villalobos-Rocha Juan Carlos , Juárez-Rendón Karina Janett , Rivera Gildardo
Published: August 2023

Giardia lamblia (G. lamblia) is the main causative agent of diarrhea worldwide, affecting children and adults alike; in the former, it can be lethal, and in the latter a strong cause of morbidity. Despite being considered a predominant disease in low-income and developing countries, current migratory flows have caused an increase in giardiasis cases in high-income countries. Currently, there is a wide variety of chemotherapeutic treatments to combat this parasitosis, most of which have potentially serious side effects, such as genotoxic, carcinogenic, and teratogenic. The necessity to create novel treatments and discover new therapeutic targets to fight against this illness is evident. The current review centers around the controversial nucleolus of G. lamblia, providing a historical perspective that traces its apparent absence to the present evidence supporting its existence as a subnuclear compartment in this organism. Additionally, possible examples of ncRNAs and proteins ubiquitous to the nucleolus that can be used as targets of different therapeutic strategies are discussed. Finally, some examples of drugs under research that could be effective against G. lamblia are described.
The Influence of Wet Granulation Parameters on the Compaction Behavior and Tablet Strength of a Hydralazine Powder Mixture
Authors: Macho Oliver , Gabrišová Ľudmila , Guštafík Adam , Jezso Kristian , Juriga Martin , Kabát Juraj , Blaško Jaroslav
Published: August 2023

The aim of this paper was to describe the influence of high-shear wet granulation process parameters on tablet tensile strength and compaction behavior of a powder mixture and granules containing hydralazine. The hydralazine powder mixture and eight types of granules were compacted into tablets and evaluated using the Heckel, Kawakita and Adams analyses. The granules were created using two types of granulation liquid (distilled water and aqueous solution of polyvinylpyrrolidone), at different impeller speeds (500 and 700 rpm) and with different wet massing times (without wet massing and for 2 min). Granulation resulted in improved compressibility, reduced dustiness and narrower particle-size distribution. A significant influence of wet massing time on parameters from the Kawakita and Adams analysis was found. Wet massing time had an equally significant effect on tablet tensile strength, regardless of the granulation liquid used. Granules formed with the same wet massing time showed the same trends in tabletability graphs. Tablets created using a single-tablet press (batch compaction) and an eccentric tablet press showed opposite values of tensile strength. Tablets from granules with a higher bulk density showed lower strength during batch compaction and, conversely, higher strength during eccentric tableting.
Construction and Compensation of a Dimensional Accuracy Model of a Powder Bed via Laser Sintering
Authors: Dai Jiaming , Guo Yanling , Li Jian , Guo Shuai , Meng Deyu , Zhang Haoyu , Guo Yifan
Published: August 2023

In the laser sintering (LS) printing process, a printed part is formed by sintering layer-by-layer on the powder bed. Thus, it is necessary to consider the dimensional accuracy of the laser-sintered powder bed as an important evaluation index. In this paper, a generalized powder bed–size accuracy compensation model is proposed for non-crystalline thermoplastic polymer materials. Taking polyethersulfone (PES) material as an example, the main factors influencing powder bed dimensional accuracy during LS printing are modeled and analyzed experimentally in this study, including four important factors: laser reference deviation, temperature deviation, density deviation, and secondary sintering deviation. In this study, CX_A200 LS equipment is used for prototyping and verification, a 3D scanning method is used to measure the printed parts, and the measurement results are digitally compared and analyzed. On this basis, the relationship of each influencing factor in the proposed compensation model is determined experimentally, and the experimental results demonstrate that the proposed compensation model is approximately 95% effective in terms of correcting the deviation of powder bed dimensional accuracy.