bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obstacle Avoidance Control for Autonomous Surface Vehicles Using Elliptical Obstacle Model Based on Barrier Lyapunov Function and Model Predictive Control
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Ding Yuanpei , Du Shuxin
Published: June 2024

This study explores positioning and obstacle avoidance control for autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs) by considering equivalent elliptical-shaped obstacles. Firstly, compared to most Barrier Lyapunov function (BLF) methods that approximate obstacles as circles, a novel BLF is improved by introducing an elliptical obstacle model. This improvement uses ellipses instead of traditional circles to equivalent obstacles, effectively resolving the issue of excessive conservatism caused by over-expanded areas during the obstacle equivalence process. Secondly, unlike traditional obstacle avoidance approaches based on BLF, to achieve constraint control of angle and angular velocity, a method based on model predictive control (MPC) is introduced to optimize local angle planning. By incorporating angular error constraints, this ensures that the directional error of the ASV remains within a restricted range. Furthermore, an auxiliary function of directional error is introduced into the ASV’s linear velocity, ensuring that the ASV parks and adjusts its direction when the deviation in angle becomes too large. This innovation guarantees the linearization of the ASV system, addressing the complexity of traditional MPC methods when dealing with nonlinear second-order ASV systems. Ultimately, the efficacy of our proposed approach is validated through rigorous experimental simulations conducted on the MATLAB platform.
Volatile Semiochemicals Emitted by Beauveria bassiana Modulate Larval Feeding Behavior and Food Choice Preference in Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Ramírez-Ordorica Arturo , Adame-Garnica Sandra Goretti , Ramos-Aboites Hilda Eréndira , Winkler Robert , Macías-Rodríguez Lourdes
Published: June 2024

Beauveria bassiana is an entomopathogenic fungus that parasitizes and kills insects. The role of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by B. bassiana acting as semiochemicals during its interaction with lepidopterans is poorly explored. Here, we studied the effect of VOCs from B. bassiana and 3-methylbutanol (as a single compound) on the feeding behavior of L2 larvae of Spodoptera frugiperda in sorghum plants. Additionally, we assessed whether fungal VOCs induce chemical modifications in the plants that affect larval food preferences. Metabolomic profiling of plant tissues was performed by mass spectrometry and bioassays in a dual-choice olfactometer. The results showed that the larval feeding behavior was affected by the B. bassiana strain AI2, showing that the insect response is strain-specific. Furthermore, 80 µg of 3-methylbutanol affected the number of bites. The larval feeding choice was dependent on the background context. Fragment spectra and a matching precursor ion mass of 165.882 m/z enabled the putative identification of 4-coumaric acid in sorghum leaves exposed to fungal VOCs, which may be associated with larval deterrent responses. These results provide valuable insights into the bipartite interaction of B. bassiana with lepidopterans through VOC emission, with the plant as a mediator of the interaction.
Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis of Older Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 Requiring Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Hong Green , Kang Da Hyun , Park Sunghoon , Lee Su Hwan , Park Onyu , Kim Taehwa , Yeo Hye Ju , Jang Jin Ho , Cho Woo Hyun , Lee Song I
Published: June 2024

An older age is associated with severe progression and poor prognosis in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and mechanical ventilation is often required. The specific characteristics of older patients undergoing mechanical ventilation and their prognostic factors are largely unknown. We aimed to identify potential prognostic factors in this group to inform treatment decisions. This retrospective cohort study collected data from patients with COVID-19 at 22 medical centers. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to assess factors that influence mortality. We allocated 434 patients in geriatric (≥80 years) and elderly (65–79 years) groups. The former group scored significantly higher than the elderly group in the clinical frailty scale and sequential organ failure assessment, indicating more severe organ dysfunction. Significantly lower administration rates of tocilizumab and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and higher intensive care unit (ICU) and in-hospital mortality were noted in the geriatric group. The factors associated with ICU and in-hospital mortality included high creatinine levels, the use of continuous renal replacement therapy, prone positioning, and the administration of life-sustaining treatments. These results highlight significant age-related differences in the management and prognosis of critically ill older patients with COVID-19. Increased mortality rates and organ dysfunction in geriatric patients undergoing mechanical ventilation necessitate age-appropriate treatment strategies to improve their prognoses.
Prediction of Cesarean Section for Intrapartum Fetal Compromise: A Multivariable Model from a Prospective Observational Approach
Authors: Novillo-Del Álamo Blanca , Martínez-Varea Alicia , Nieto-Tous Mar , Padilla-Prieto Carmen , Modrego-Pardo Fernando , Bello-Martínez de Velasco Silvia , García-Florenciano María Victoria , Morales-Roselló José
Published: June 2024

Objective: A cesarean section for intrapartum fetal compromise (IFC) is performed to avoid potential damage to the newborn. It is, therefore, crucial to develop an accurate prediction model that can anticipate, prior to labor, which fetus may be at risk of presenting this condition. Material and Methods: To calculate a prediction model for IFC, the clinical, epidemiological, and ultrasonographic variables of 538 patients admitted to the maternity of La Fe Hospital were studied and evaluated using univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis, using the area under the curve (AUC) and the Akaike Information Criteria (AIC). Results: In the univariable analysis, CPR MoM was the best single parameter for the prediction of CS for IFC (OR 0.043, p < 0.0001; AUC 0.72, p < 0.0001). Concerning the multivariable analysis, for the general population, the best prediction model (lower AIC) included the CPR multiples of the median (MoM), the maternal age, height, and parity, the smoking habits, and the type of labor onset (spontaneous or induction) (AUC 0.80, p < 0.0001). In contrast, for the pregnancies undergoing labor induction, the best prediction model included the CPR MoM, the maternal height and parity, and the smoking habits (AUC 0.80, p < 0.0001). None of the models included estimated fetal weight (EFW). Conclusions: CS for IFC can be moderately predicted prior to labor using maternal characteristics and CPR MoM. A validation study is pending to apply these models in daily clinical practice.
Portfolio Optimization with Sector Return Prediction Models
Authors: Bessler Wolfgang , Wolff Dominik
Published: June 2024

We analyze return predictability for U.S. sectors based on fundamental, macroeconomic, and technical indicators and analyze whether return predictions improve tactical asset allocation decisions. We study the out-of-sample predictive power of individual variables for forecasting sector returns and analyze multivariate predictive regression models, including OLS, regularized regressions, principal component regressions, the three-pass regression filter, and forecast combinations. Using an out-of-sample Black–Litterman portfolio optimization framework and employing predicted returns as investors’ ‘views’, we evaluate the benefits of sector return forecasts for investors. We find that portfolio optimization with sector return prediction models significantly outperforms portfolios using historical averages as well as passive benchmark portfolios.
Characterization of Biochar from Beach-Cast Seaweed and Its Use for Amelioration of Acid Soils
Authors: Cárdenas-Aguiar Eliana , Gascó Gabriel , Lado Marcos , Méndez Ana , Paz-Ferreiro Jorge , Paz-González Antonio
Published: June 2024

Limited knowledge is available regarding biochar (BC) obtained from beach-cast seaweed, which needs to be characterized to better prospect its potential applications. Beach-cast seaweed BCs were produced at two temperatures (300 and 600 °C) and two residence times (1 and 3 h). First, an extensive characterization of feedstock and their derived BCs was performed. Then, an incubation experiment was conducted to investigate the potential of these BCs as ameliorants in two acidic soils, classified as Umbrisols. Proximate and elemental analyses suggested the presence of more stable C structures in BCs at 600 °C with a high C, fixed carbon (FC) and low H, O and volatile matter (VM); additionally, thermogravimetric graphics showed less weight loss. Some features from the raw material were present in biochars obtained at 300 °C but absent at 600 °C. Dissolved organic carbon was much lower in BCs pyrolyzed at 600 °C than at 300 °C, suggesting the higher aromaticity of the former, allowing more resistance to water extraction. The breakdown of proteinaceous soluble materials after pyrolysis was revealed by fluorescence. Residence time caused minor effects in biochar properties compared to temperature. The soil pH and macronutrient availability of the two studied soils increased after beach-cast seaweed biochar addition.
Spatial Quality Measurement and Characterization of Daily High-Frequency Pedestrian Streets in Xi’an City
Authors: Liu Linggui , Tu Yuheng , Sun Maoran , Lyu Han , Wang Peijie , He Jing
Published: June 2024

Street space plays a crucial role in human activity and social life, forming an essential component of a livable and sustainable built environment. Consequently, its quality has garnered significant attention from researchers, designers, and policymakers who aim to achieve precise assessments of street infrastructure and conditions. This study presents a multi-dimensional framework for evaluating street space, considering factors such as access frequency, environmental quality, and amenity richness. By utilizing city-level path planning data, street view imagery, point of interest data, and social media check-in data, this framework assesses each street and assigns scores across these dimensions. These scores facilitate a human-centered analysis of the disparities in street usage and quality. The aggregation of results by administrative regions supports effective policy formulation and implementation. Application of this framework in Xi’an, China, reveals that only 6.95% of frequently visited streets exhibit high environmental quality and functional richness. This study underscores the potential of leveraging public data for detailed street space assessments to inform urban renewal policies.
Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis to Support the Remediation of Polluted Soils: A Review of Case Studies
Authors: Abrams Floris , Hendrickx Lucas , Turcanu Catrinel , Sweeck Lieve , Van Orshoven Jos
Published: June 2024

For the successful remediation of polluted sites, priority setting among the possible remediation technologies is of major importance. The related decisions are typically conditioned by a limited set of alternative remediation techniques and multiple, often contradicting criteria. These characteristics make the decision problem suitable for applying a formalised discrete multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). This paper reports on the outcome of a systematic review of articles published between 1995 and 2020 encompassing 43 MCDA applications to support the selection of the remediation technique for polluted soils. It focuses on the comparison between implementations of the MCDA methodology. The review identifies four gaps where progress can be made to mobilise the full strength of the MCDA methodology to support the remediation of polluted soils: (i) early stakeholder engagement, (ii) inclusion of social criteria, (iii) an informed choice of the weighting and aggregation method, (iv) and sensitivity analysis.
Ecosystem Services-Based City Ranking in Italy: A Tool to Enhance Sustainable Thinking in Regeneration Strategies
Authors: Pilogallo Angela , Scorza Francesco , Murgante Beniamino
Published: June 2024

Multidimensional integrated indicators have become extremely popular for ranking territorial units and comparing them in terms of performance, development and quality of life. The concept of sustainability is not exempt from this global phenomenon. Recognizing the ecosystem services (ES) framework as a tool to drive urban and landscape regeneration toward sustainability, we propose a ranking based on ES multifunctionality. Adopting this approach allows for pursuing different goals on several time frames: to enhance the policy–science interface in the short term; to mainstream ES values in the governance of green transition in the medium term; and to improve sustainability performance in the long term. Based on a spatially explicit assessment of a relevant set of ES variables, we mapped the multiple ecosystem services landscape index (MESLI) and compared the results with the main Italian cities rankings, demonstrating how the ranking tool brings heterogeneous results with relevant differences in assessing territorial features. The conclusions highlight the potential of such a ranking in order to address sustainability thinking in regeneration processes.
Sleep, Mood, and Nutrition Patterns of Postmenopausal Women Diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder by Menopause Periods
Authors: Kabadayı Demir Cansu , Bayram Sinem , Köse Beril , Köseler Beyaz Esra , Yeşil Esen
Published: June 2024

Menopausal women experience changes in ovarian activity and fluctuating hormone levels. The aim of this study was to detect ongoing sleep and nutritional problems in postmenopausal women. This study was conducted with 62 postmenopausal women who had been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, were aged 42–64, were not dieting for at least 1 month, and had been using antidepressants for at least 6 months. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale–42 were used. Anthropometric measurements were taken and body composition analysis was performed. The prevalence of obesity and overweight were 12.9% and 71%, respectively. Hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swing were more common in those who had been through menopause for <5 years. Also, the PSQI, Depression, and Stress scores of those women were higher. Women who had been menopausal for ≥5 years had a higher BMI, waist/hip ratio, and fat mass and better sleep quality and lower daytime dysfunction according to the PSQI. Energy and fat intake were higher, while protein, vitamin C, and calcium intakes were lower in women who had been menopausal for ≥5 years. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to review approaches for early and late menopausal periods and to individualize treatment options, especially in patients whose symptoms persist.
Screening for Breast Cancer: A Comparative Review of Guidelines
Authors: Katsika Laskarina , Boureka Eirini , Kalogiannidis Ioannis , Tsakiridis Ioannis , Tirodimos Ilias , Lallas Konstantinos , Tsimtsiou Zoi , Dagklis Themistoklis
Published: June 2024

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy diagnosed in the female population worldwide and the leading cause of death among perimenopausal women. Screening is essential, since earlier detection in combination with improvements in breast cancer treatment can reduce the associated mortality. The aim of this study was to review and compare the recommendations from published guidelines on breast cancer screening. A total of 14 guidelines on breast cancer screening issued between 2014 and 2022 were identified. A descriptive review of relevant guidelines by the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), the American Cancer Society (ACS), the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS), the American College of Radiology (ACR), the Task Force on Preventive Health Care (CTFPHC), the European Commission Initiative on Breast Cancer (ECIBC), the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology (JJCO) for women both at average and high-risk was carried out. There is a consensus among all the reviewed guidelines that mammography is the gold standard screening modality for average-risk women. For this risk group, most of the guidelines suggest annual or biennial mammographic screening at 40–74 years, while screening should particularly focus at 50–69 years. Most of the guidelines suggest that the age limit to stop screening should be determined based on the women’s health status and life expectancy. For women at high-risk, most guidelines recommend the use of annual mammography or magnetic resonance imaging, while the starting age should be earlier than the average-risk group, depending on the risk factor. There is discrepancy among the recommendations regarding the age at onset of screening in the various high-risk categories. The development of consistent international practice protocols for the most appropriate breast cancer screening programs seems of major importance to reduce mortality rates and safely guide everyday clinical practice.
Sleep Difficulties in Swiss Elite Athletes
Authors: Vorster Albrecht P. A. , Erlacher Daniel , Birrer Daniel , Röthlin Philipp
Published: June 2024

For athletes, sleep is essential for recovery and performance. Yet, up to two-thirds of athletes report poor sleep quality. Comprehensive data across all sports disciplines on the underlying causes of sleep problems are missing. We reanalyzed a data set of N = 1004 Swiss top athletes across an extensive array of 88 sports to gain knowledge on the specific deficits in sleep health with respect to gender, sport classes, sport-related factors, and well-being. We found that 18% of athletes were affected by at least two out of five high-risk sleep factors: 9% of athletes slept less than 6 h per day, 30% were dissatisfied with their sleep, 17% showed problems falling asleep within 30 min, 18% of athletes reported difficulty maintaining sleep more than three times a week, and 6% of athletes used sleeping pills more than once a week. We found sleep health strongly linked to overall well-being and mental health (22% showed at least moderate symptoms of either depression or anxiety). Therefore, screening and treating sleep disorders might effectively improve mental health and general well-being as well as performance among athletes around the globe.
Leaf Segmentation Using Modified YOLOv8-Seg Models
Authors: Wang Peng , Deng Hong , Guo Jiaxu , Ji Siqi , Meng Dan , Bao Jun , Zuo Peng
Published: June 2024

Computer-vision-based plant leaf segmentation technology is of great significance for plant classification, monitoring of plant growth, precision agriculture, and other scientific research. In this paper, the YOLOv8-seg model was used for the automated segmentation of individual leaves in images. In order to improve the segmentation performance, we further introduced a Ghost module and a Bidirectional Feature Pyramid Network (BiFPN) module into the standard Yolov8 model and proposed two modified versions. The Ghost module can generate several intrinsic feature maps with cheap transformation operations, and the BiFPN module can fuse multi-scale features to improve the segmentation performance of small leaves. The experiment results show that Yolov8 performs well in the leaf segmentation task, and the Ghost module and BiFPN module can further improve the performance. Our proposed approach achieves a 86.4% leaf segmentation score (best Dice) over all five test datasets of the Computer Vision Problems in Plant Phenotyping (CVPPP) Leaf Segmentation Challenge, outperforming other reported approaches.
Edge-Based Synchronization Control Criteria of Complex Dynamical Networks with Reaction–Diffusions
Authors: Xie Tao , Zhang Qike , Xiong Xing
Published: June 2024

This research investigates the edge-based asymptotic synchronization of delayed complex dynamical networks with reaction–diffusions and by an edge-based adaptive pinning control technique. Sufficient conditions for reaction–diffusion networks to realize synchronization are provided by Green’s formula, Wirtinger inequality, inequality analysis techniques, and contradiction methods. The results show that network synchronization can be achieved by pinning any edge of the network (the choice of edge is arbitrary), which greatly reduces the difficulty of control. Lastly, a series of numerical examples illustrating the theoretical findings is provided.
Design and Implementation of Extremum-Seeking Control Based on MPPT for Dual-Axis Solar Tracker
Authors: Solís-Cervantes Cesar Ulises , Palomino-Resendiz Sergio Isai , Flores-Hernández Diego Alonso , Peñaloza-López Marco Antonio , Montelongo-Vazquez Carlos Manuel
Published: June 2024

The increase in the production efficiency of photovoltaic technology depends on its alignment in relation to the solar position. Solar tracking systems perform the tracking action by implementing control algorithms that help the reduction of tracking errors. However, conventional algorithms can reduce the life of actuators and mechanisms due to control action, significantly reducing operation times and profitability. In this article, an unconventional control scheme is developed to address the mentioned challenges, presenting the design and implementation of an extremum-seeking control to perform maximum power point tracking for a two-axis solar tracker instrumented with a solar module. The proposed controller is governed by the dynamics of a classic proportional-integral scheme and assisted by sensorless feedback. Also, it has an anti-wind-up-type configuration for the integral component and counts with a variable amplitude for the dither signal. The proposal is validated experimentally by comparison between a fixed system and a two-axis system in azimuth-elevation configuration. In addition, two performance indices are defined and analyzed, system energy production and tracking error. The results show that the proposal allows producing up to 27.75% more than a fixed system, considering the tracker energy consumption due to the tracking action and a pointing accuracy with ±1.8° deviation. Finally, an analysis and discussion are provided based on the results, concluding that the proposed algorithm is a viable alternative to increase the performance of tracked photovoltaic systems.
Sliding Mode Control of a Class of Hybrid-Switched Systems with Disturbances
Authors: Li Jiaojiao , Wang Yingying , Zhang Jianyu
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the problem of sliding mode control for a class of hybrid switched systems with matching disturbances. Firstly, a sliding mode surface is designed, and the corresponding sliding mode equation for the switched system is derived. Then, we analyzed the stability of the sliding mode equation using the Lyapunov function and average dwell time. Moreover, a sliding mode control law is designed with the approach law method to drive the system state to a bounded sliding mode region and then maintain it there subsequently. Finally, an illustrative example is given to demonstrate the efficiency of the approach.
Heterologous Expression and Characterization of a pH-Stable Chitinase from Micromonospora aurantiaca with a Potential Application in Chitin Degradation
Authors: Guo Han-Zhong , Wang Dou , Yang Hui-Ting , Wu Yu-Le , Li Yong-Cheng , Xia Guang-Hua , Zhang Xue-Ying
Published: June 2024

To promote the bioconversion of marine chitin waste into value-added products, we expressed a novel pH-stable Micromonospora aurantiaca-derived chitinase, MaChi1, in Escherichia coli and subsequently purified, characterized, and evaluated it for its chitin-converting capacity. Our results indicated that MaChi1 is of the glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 18 with a molecular weight of approximately 57 kDa, consisting of a GH18 catalytic domain and a cellulose-binding domain. We recorded its optimal activity at pH 5.0 and 55 °C. It exhibited excellent stability in a wide pH range of 3.0–10.0. Mg2+ (5 mM), and dithiothreitol (10 mM) significantly promoted MaChi1 activity. MaChi1 exhibited broad substrate specificity and hydrolyzed chitin, chitosan, cellulose, soluble starch, and N-acetyl chitooligosaccharides with polymerization degrees ranging from three to six. Moreover, MaChi1 exhibited an endo-type cleavage pattern, and it could efficiently convert colloidal chitin into N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (GlcNAc) and (GlcNAc)2 with yields of 227.2 and 505.9 mg/g chitin, respectively. Its high chitin-degrading capacity and exceptional pH tolerance makes it a promising tool with potential applications in chitin waste treatment and bioactive oligosaccharide production.
Rupture of Mycotic Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm as a Result of Incompletely Treated Multiple Peripheral Mycotic Aneurysms
Authors: Jang Lee Chan , Kim Dae Hoon , Yoo Kwon Cheol
Published: June 2024

Background: A mycotic aortic aneurysm is a rare type of aortic aneurysm that can have disastrous outcomes. Most mycotic aneurysms originate from infectious sources, such as trauma, vegetation in the heart, and adjacent infectious sources. If a mycotic aneurysm is diagnosed, it should be treated simultaneously with the primary source of the infection. Case Summary: Treatment was performed for a mycotic aneurysm of the brachial artery that occurred suddenly during treatment for a fever for which the primary source of infection had not been confirmed. The workup revealed that a mycotic aneurysm of the brachial artery was the cause of the fever, followed by aneurysms in the abdomen and lower extremities and even vegetation in the heart that was not initially present. The patient declined to undergo treatment for personal reasons. After 5 months, it was revealed that the abdominal aortic aneurysm, which was initially considered normal aorta, was ruptured; however, the aneurysm was successfully treated. Conclusions: A peripheral mycotic aneurysm may be associated with multiple aneurysms. Appropriate diagnosis and complete treatments are necessary to prevent fatal consequences.
Association between Pan-Immune-Inflammation Value and Contrast-Induced Nephropathy with Coronary Angiography
Authors: Akkaya Suleyman , Cakmak Umit
Published: June 2024

Background: Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is one of the most important complications after invasive cardiovascular procedures. Considering the pivotal role of inflammation in CIN development, the use of peripheral blood-based indexes may be an easily available biomarker to predict CIN risk. Therefore, in the present study, we evaluated the association between the pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV) and the risk of CIN. Patients and Methods: A total of 1343 patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG) were included. The PIV was calculated with the following equation: (neutrophil count × platelet count × monocyte count)/lymphocyte count. Multivariable regression analyses were used to determine the association between clinical and laboratory parameters and CIN development. Results: The median age of the cohort was 58 (IQR 50–67), and 48.2% of the patients were female. CIN developed in 202 patients (15%) in follow-up. In multivariate analyses, older age (OR: 1.015, 95% CI: 1.002–1.028, p = 0.020) and higher PIV levels (OR: 1.016, 95% CI: 1.004–1.028, p = 0.008) were associated with a higher CIN risk, while the use of antiplatelet agents was associated with a lower risk of CIN (OR: 0.670, 95% CI: 0.475–0.945, p = 0.022). Conclusions: We demonstrated that the risk of CIN was significantly higher in patients with higher PIV and older patients in a large cohort of patients undergoing CAG for stable ischemic heart disease. If supported with prospective evidence, PIV levels could be used as a minimally invasive reflector of CIN.
Complications of Preterm Birth—The Importance of Care for the Outcome: A Narrative Review
Authors: Zivaljevic Jelica , Jovandaric Miljana Z. , Babic Sandra , Raus Misela
Published: June 2024

Preterm-born children are susceptible to problems of adaptation in the early neonatal period, as well as the emergence of consequences due to the immaturity of the respiratory, cardiovascular, and especially cerebrovascular systems. The authors searched PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for articles that were available in their entirety and published in English between 1990 and 2024 in peer-reviewed journals using keywords relevant to the manuscript topic. Analyzing the requested studies and manuscripts, adequate articles describing the stated problem were used. The last trimester of pregnancy is the most important period in brain development. Brain growth is at its most intense, and nerve cells are created, multiply, and migrate, creating numerous connections between them and receptors. During this period, the baby is protected from the influence of external environmental factors. When a baby is born, it leaves its protected environment and very often requires intensive treatment to survive. In these circumstances, the immature nervous system, which is in a sensitive stage of development, is overloaded with numerous external stimuli, continuous light, noise, inappropriate positioning, and repeated painful reactions due to necessary diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and the unavoidable absence of the mother and the family, which cause stress that threatens proper programmed development. Minimally invasive therapeutic procedures and the presence of parents during hospitalization play a significant role in reducing the consequences for a premature child.
Effect of Annealing and Double Aging on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Hot-Rolled Al17Cr10Fe36Ni36Mo1 Alloy
Authors: Qiu Yunji , Shi Xinbo , Liu Xiaoming , Chen Zhihua , Wang Jianbin , Liu Xin , Bai Xiaoyu , He Feng , Wang Zhijun
Published: June 2024

AlCrFeNi multi-component alloys with excellent mechanical properties have been designed and extensively investigated in recent years. The massive fabrication of sheets will be an effective way for industrial application, where hot rolling is the inevitable process. After hot rolling, the mechanical properties could be further tailored. In this study, the effects of heat treatments on a dual-phase Al17Cr10Fe36Ni36Mo1 hot-rolled plate were systematically investigated, including: (i) annealing (700 °C, 850 °C, 1000 °C and 1150 °C for 1 h, respectively), (ii) solution and single aging (1150 °C for 1 h and 700 °C for 4 h), (iii) solution and double aging (1150 °C for 1 h, 700 °C for 4 h and 650 °C for 1 h). The B2 precipitates with varied morphologies were observed in the FCC matrix of the hot-rolled alloy after a heat treatment range from 700 °C to 1000 °C for 1 h, and the BCC particles in the B2 matrix were dissolved when the heat treatment temperature was higher than 1000 °C. The hot-rolled alloy heat treated at 700 °C for 1 h had the highest yield strength, and the hot-rolled alloy treated at 1150 °C for 1 h showed the lowest yield strength. After a solution at 1150 °C for 1 h, aging at 700 °C for 4 h and 650 °C for 1 h, the L12 phase and BCC particles were precipitated in the FCC and B2 matrices, and B2 nanoprecipitates were observed around the FCC grain boundaries. The solution and double aging alloy exhibit the tensile strength of 1365.7 ± 9.5 MPa, a fracture elongation of 14.2 ± 1.5% at 20 °C, a tensile strength of 641.4 ± 6.0 MPa, and a fracture elongation of 16.9 ± 1.0% at 700 °C, showing great potential for application.
Insight into Fructose-to-Sucrose Ratio as the Potential Target of Urinalysis in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Zhou Dewang , Huang Jianxu , Zheng Haoxiang , Liu Yujun , Zhu Shimao , Du Yang
Published: June 2024

Bladder cancer usually has been diagnosed in elderly patients as it stays asymptomatic until it presents. Current detection methods for bladder cancer cannot be considered as an adequate screening strategy due to their high invasiveness and low sensitivity. However, there remains uncertainty about targets with high sensitivity and specificity for non-invasive bladder cancer examination. Our study aims to investigate the actionable non-invasive screening biomarkers in bladder cancer. Here, we employed scRNA-seq to explore the crucial biological processes for bladder cancer development. We then utilized bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the bidirectional causal relationship between ATP-associated metabolites in urine and bladder cancer. Lastly, we used a BBN-induced mouse model of bladder cancer to validate the crucial gene identified by scRNA-seq and MR analysis. We found that (1) the ATP metabolism process plays a critical role in bladder cancer development; (2) there is a bidirectional and negative causal relationship between fructose-to-sucrose ratio in urine and the risk of bladder cancer; and (3) the higher expression of TPI1, a critical gene in the fructose metabolism pathway, was validated in BBN-induced bladder tumors. Our results reveal that fructose-to-sucrose ratio can serve as a potential target of urinalysis in bladder cancer.
Long Electrical Stability on Dual Acceptor p-Type ZnO:Ag,N Thin Films
Authors: Avelar-Muñoz Fernando , Gómez-Rosales Roberto , Ortiz-Hernández Arturo Agustín , Durán-Muñoz Héctor , Berumen-Torres Javier Alejandro , Vagas-Téllez Jorge Alberto , Tototzintle-Huitle Hugo , Méndez-García Víctor Hugo , Araiza José de Jesús , Ortega-Sigala José Juan
Published: June 2024

p-type Ag-N dual acceptor doped ZnO thin films with long electrical stability were deposited by DC magnetron reactive co-sputtering technique. After deposition, the films were annealed at 400 °C for one hour in a nitrogen-controlled atmosphere. The deposited films were amorphous. However, after annealing, they crystallize in the typical hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO. The Ag-N dual acceptors were incorporated substitutionally in the structure of zinc oxide, and achieving that; the three samples presented the p-type conductivity in the ZnO. Initial electrical properties showed a low resistivity of from 1 to 10−3 Ω·cm, Hall mobility of tens cm2/V·s, and a hole concentration from 1017 to 1019 cm−3. The electrical stability analysis reveals that the p-type conductivity of the ZnO:Ag,N films is very stable and does not revert to n-type, even after 36 months of aging. These results reveal the feasibility of using these films for applications in short-wavelength or transparent optoelectronic devices.
Dielectric Properties of PEEK/PEI Blends as Substrate Material in High-Frequency Circuit Board Applications
Authors: Scherzer Tim , Wolf Marius , Werum Kai , Ruckdäschel Holger , Eberhardt Wolfgang , Zimmermann André
Published: June 2024

Substrate materials for printed circuit boards must meet ever-increasing requirements to keep up with electronics technology development. Especially in the field of high-frequency applications such as radar and cellular broadcasting, low permittivity and the dielectric loss factor are key material parameters. In this work, the dielectric properties of a high-temperature, thermoplastic PEEK/PEI blend system are investigated at frequencies of 5 and 10 GHz under dried and ambient conditions. This material blend, modified with a suitable filler system, is capable of being used in the laser direct structuring (LDS) process. It is revealed that the degree of crystallinity of neat PEEK has a notable influence on the dielectric properties, as well as the PEEK phase structure in the blend system developed through annealing. This phenomenon can in turn be exploited to minimize permittivity values at 30 to 40 wt.-% PEI in the blend, even taking into account the water uptake present in thermoplastics. The dielectric loss follows a linear mixing rule over the blend range, which proved to be true also for PEEK/PEI LDS compounds.
Drop Dissolution Intensified by Acoustic Levitation
Authors: Ruiken Jan-Paul , Villwock Jörn , Kraume Matthias
Published: June 2024

Acoustic levitation can provide significant benefits for many fundamental research questions. However, it is important to consider that the acoustic field influences the measurement environment. This work focuses on the dissolution of immobilised drops using acoustic levitation in liquid–liquid systems. Previous work demonstrated that the acoustic field of standing waves impacts mass transfer by affecting the spread of dissolved substances in the continuous phase in two distinct ways: (I) solutes may either pass through nodal planes of the standing waves or (II) not pass. The binary systems examined for case (I) are 1-hexanol–water and 1-butanol–water, and for case (II), n-butyl acetate–water and toluene–water. This work quantifies the intensification effect of acoustic levitation on dissolution for the two types of behaviour, by comparing them with reference measurements of mechanically attached dissolving drops. The system was designed to ensure minimal intensification. The minimum intensification of mass transfer for levitating drops in the used setup of case (I) was 25%, and for case (II), it was 65%, both increasing with decreasing surface-equivalent diameter. With this understanding, acoustic levitation can be used more accurately in the field of mass transfer studies.
Parasitic Effects on the Congenital Transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi in Mother–Newborn Pairs
Authors: Herrera Choque Ana Gabriela , Cuna Washington R. , Gabrielli Simona , Mattiucci Simonetta , Passera Roberto , Rodriguez Celeste
Published: June 2024

Maternal parasitemia and placental parasite load were examined in mother–newborn pairs to determine their effect on the congenital transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi. Parasitemia was qualitatively assessed in mothers and newborns by the microhematocrit test; parasite load was determined in the placental tissues of transmitting and non-transmitting mothers by the detection of T. cruzi DNA and by histology. Compared to transmitter mothers, the frequency and prevalence of parasitemia were found to be increased in non-transmitter mothers; however, the frequency and prevalence of parasite load were higher among the transmitter mothers than among their non-transmitter counterparts. Additionally, serum levels of interferon (IFN)-γ were measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in peripheral, placental, and cord blood samples. Median values of IFN-γ were significantly increased in the cord blood of uninfected newborns. The median IFN-γ values of transmitter and non-transmitter mothers were not significantly different; however, non-transmitter mothers had the highest total IFN-γ production among the group of mothers. Collectively, the results of this study suggest that the anti-T. cruzi immune response occurring in the placenta and cord is under the influence of the cytokines from the mother’s blood and results in the control of parasitemia in uninfected newborns.
Concentration Plants of Construction and Demolition Waste for Coarse Aggregate Recycling
Authors: Sampaio Carlos Hoffmann , Petter Carlos Otávio , Sampaio Luisa de Freitas , Moncunill Josep Oliva , Ambrós Weslei Monteiro , Teixeira Artur Bressanelli
Published: June 2024

This paper presents simulations of different concentration plants that use Inert Construction and Demolition Waste as feed to generate coarse aggregates from old concretes. Different feed materials were studied: CDW generated in Spain; low-strength concretes, C16/20, which are ordinary concrete used in civil construction; and high-strength concretes, C50/60, from specific demolitions, such as old viaducts and bridges. Granulometric and densimetric analyses were performed, and the composition of the granulometric fractions of the proposed concretes were analyzed based on previous studies carried out, to understand the materials that can be recovered and considered for reinvestment in the market. Investment analysis considering the CAPEX, OPEX, revenue, IRR, MIRR, NPV, and DPP of the different concentrating plants with varying streams of concentration to recover the materials of interest (coarse aggregates) are presented and discussed. The results of the analyses indicate greater viability in plants that use mobile plants and the use of water jigs.
Mesoproterozoic (ca. 1.3 Ga) A-Type Granites on the Northern Margin of the North China Craton: Response to Break-Up of the Columbia Supercontinent
Authors: Liu Bo , Jin Shengkai , Tian Guanghao , Li Liyang , Qin Yueqiang , Xie Zhiyuan , Ma Ming , Yin Jiale
Published: June 2024

Mesoproterozoic (ca. 1.3 Ga) magmatism in the North China Craton (NCC) was dominated by mafic intrusions (dolerite sills) with lesser amounts of granitic magmatism, but our lack of knowledge of this magmatism hinders our understanding of the evolution of the NCC during this period. This study investigated porphyritic granites from the Huade–Kangbao area on the northern margin of the NCC. Zircon dating indicates the porphyritic granites were intruded during the Mesoproterozoic between 1285.4 ± 2.6 and 1278.6 ± 6.1 Ma. The granites have high silica contents (SiO2 = 63.10–73.73 wt.%), exhibit alkali enrichment (total alkalis = 7.71–8.79 wt.%), are peraluminous, and can be classified as weakly peraluminous A2-type granites. The granites have negative Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.14–0.44), enrichments in large-ion lithophile elements (LILEs; e.g., K, Rb, Th, and U), and depletions in high-field-strength elements (HFSEs; e.g., Nb, Ta, and Ti). εHf(t) values range from –6.43 to +2.41, with tDM2 ages of 1905–2462 Ma, suggesting the magmas were derived by partial melting of ancient crustal material. The geochronological and geochemical data, and regional geological features, indicate the Mesoproterozoic porphyritic granites from the northern margin of the NCC formed in an intraplate tectonic setting during continental extension and rifting, which represents the response of the NCC to the break-up of the Columbia supercontinent.
Sulfur Isotope Characteristics in the Qian-34 Section of the Qianjiang Depression and Its Implications for the Paleoenvironment
Authors: Wang Tianyu , Wei Ren , Ling Kun , Dong Lin
Published: June 2024

Pyrite is an important proxy used to reflect the redox state of a sedimentary environment. Currently available studies on pyrite focus on the process of sulfur cycles between an ocean and sediment. However, our understanding of the biogeochemical cycle of sulfur in terrestrial lake basins remains unclear, and the growth patterns of different types of pyrite are poorly understood. In this paper, we used samples from the 34 section of the Qianjiang depression in the Jianghan Basin as direct research objects by combining pyrite and sulfur isotope determination. The one-dimensional diffusion–advection–reaction simulation (1D-DAR) model was applied to simulate the changes in the pyrite content and sulfur isotope values in the sediment. The results show that the sediments in the saline lake basin environment contain a high organic matter content, a high sedimentation rate, and a high H2S diffusion oxidation rate, reflecting the strong reducing background and high productivity of this ancient lake. Sensitivity tests revealed that the organic matter content and H2S diffusion oxidation rate at the sediment–water interface are sensitive to the pyrite content. The sedimentation rate, organic matter content, and sulfate concentration are sensitive to the pyrite’s sulfur isotope values. However, the variation in the active iron content had little effect on the pyrite content or sulfur isotope value.
Traceability Research on Geographic Erigeron breviscapus Based on High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry and Chemometric Analysis
Authors: Zhang Jiao , Tian Heng , Lin Tao , Huang Xiangzhong , Liu Hongcheng
Published: June 2024

A method was developed to identify and trace the geographic sources of Erigeron breviscapus using high-resolution mass spectrometry and chemometrics. The representative samples were collected from the geographic area of Honghe Dengzhanhua and other areas in Yunnan province and Guizhou province. The data points could be determined well using the PCA and PLS-DA diagram. A total of 46 characteristic compounds were identified from Honghe Dengzhanhua and within Guizhou province, but 37 compounds were different from Honghe Dengzhanhua and other counties in Yunnan province. Two biomarkers were found from three regions. Their structures were inferred as 8-amino-7-oxononanoic acid and 8-hydroxyquinoline, and they had the same molecular composition. This may suggest that a possible synthesis pathway can be proven in the future.
High-Yield Production of Dihydroxyacetone from Crude Glycerol in Fed-Batch Cultures of Gluconobacter oxydans
Authors: Górska Katarzyna , Garncarek Zbigniew
Published: June 2024

The strain Gluconobacter oxydans LMG 1385 was used for the bioconversion of crude glycerol to dihydroxyacetone. The suitability of fed-batch cultures for the production of dihydroxyacetone was determined, and the influence of the pH of the culture medium and the initial concentration of glycerol on maximizing the concentration of dihydroxyacetone and on the yield and speed of obtaining dihydroxyacetone by bioconversion was examined. The feeding strategy of the substrate (crude glycerol) during the process was based on measuring the dissolved oxygen tension of the culture medium. The highest concentration of dihydroxyacetone PK = 175.8 g·L−1 and the highest yield YP/Sw = 94.3% were obtained when the initial concentration of crude glycerol was S0 = 70.0 g·L−1 and the pH of the substrate was maintained during the process at level 5.0.
Preparation of Ultra-High Temperature Resistant Cyclodextrin-Based Filtration Loss Reducer for Water-Based Drilling Fluids
Authors: Liu Yilin , Djouonkep Lesly Dasilva Wandji , Yu Boyang , Li Chenyang , Ma Chao
Published: June 2024

In the development of ultra-deep wells, extremely high temperatures can lead to inefficiency of additives in drilling fluids. Hence, there is a need to prepare additives with a simple preparation process and good effects at ultra-high temperatures to ensure stable drilling fluid performance. In this study, a high temperature resistant filtration loss polymer (LY-2) was prepared using γ-methacryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (KH570), N,N-dimethylallyl ammonium chloride (DMDAAC), sodium p-styrenesulfonate (SSS), and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD). The impact of the different monomer ratios on particle size, rheology, and filtration performance was systematically investigated. Infrared spectroscopy afforded the structural features. Thermogravimetric Analysis detected the temperature stability, and scanning electron microscopy characterized the polymer micromorphology. LY-2 was completely decomposed at a temperature above 600 °C. Experiments showed FLAPI of the drilling fluid containing 3% LY-2 aged at 260 °C/16 h was only 5.1 mL, which is 85.4% lower compared to the base fluid. This is attributed to the synergistic effect of the polymer adsorption through chemical action at high temperatures and the blocking effect of carbon nanoparticles on the filter cake released by cyclodextrin carbonization at high temperatures. Comparing LY-2 with commercial filter loss reducers shows that LY-2 has excellent temperature resistance, which exhibited five times higher filtration performance and relatively low cost, making it possible to be applied to ultra-high temperature drilling operations in an industrial scale-up.