bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomarker Identification through Proteomics in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Martín-García Desirée , García-Aranda Marilina , Redondo Maximino
Published: February 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a devastating disease that ranks third in diagnosis and as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The early detection of CRC has been shown to be the most effective strategy to improve treatment outcomes and patient survival. Therefore, current lines of research focus on the development of reliable diagnostic tools. Targeted therapies, in combination with standard chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors, have emerged as promising treatment protocols in CRC. However, their effectiveness is linked to the molecular characteristics of each patient. The importance of discovering biomarkers that help predict response to therapies and assess prognosis is evident as they allow for a fundamental step towards personalized care and successful treatments. Among the ongoing efforts to identify them, mass spectrometry-based translational proteomics presents itself as a unique opportunity as it enables the discovery and application of protein biomarkers that may revolutionize the early detection and treatment of CRC. Our objective is to show the most recent studies focused on the identification of CRC-related protein markers, as well as to provide an updated view of advances in the field of proteomics and cancer.
Roles of Glutathione and AP-1 in the Enhancement of Vitamin D-Induced Differentiation by Activators of the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells
Authors: Jramne-Saleem Yasmeen , Danilenko Michael
Published: February 2024

Active vitamin D derivatives (VDDs)—1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3/D2 and their synthetic analogs—are well-known inducers of cell maturation with the potential for differentiation therapy of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, their dose-limiting calcemic activity is a significant obstacle to using VDDs as an anticancer treatment. We have shown that different activators of the NF-E2-related factor-2/Antioxidant Response Element (Nrf2/ARE) signaling pathway, such as the phenolic antioxidant carnosic acid (CA) or the multiple sclerosis drug monomethyl fumarate (MMF), synergistically enhance the antileukemic effects of various VDDs applied at low concentrations in vitro and in vivo. This study aimed to investigate whether glutathione, the major cellular antioxidant and the product of the Nrf2/ARE pathway, can mediate the Nrf2-dependent differentiation-enhancing activity of CA and MMF in HL60 human AML cells. We report that glutathione depletion using L-buthionine sulfoximine attenuated the enhancing effects of both Nrf2 activators concomitant with downregulating vitamin D receptor (VDR) target genes and the activator protein-1 (AP-1) family protein c-Jun levels and phosphorylation. On the other hand, adding reduced glutathione ethyl ester to dominant negative Nrf2-expressing cells restored both the suppressed differentiation responses and the downregulated expression of VDR protein, VDR target genes, as well as c-Jun and P-c-Jun levels. Finally, using the transcription factor decoy strategy, we demonstrated that AP-1 is necessary for the enhancement by CA and MMF of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-induced VDR and RXRα protein expression, transactivation of the vitamin D response element, and cell differentiation. Collectively, our findings suggest that glutathione mediates, at least in part, the potentiating effect of Nrf2 activators on VDDs-induced differentiation of AML cells, likely through the positive regulation of AP-1.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Amino and Amido Substituted Pentacyclic Benzimidazole Derivatives as Antiproliferative Agents
Authors: Perin Nataša , Gulin Marjana , Kos Marija , Persoons Leentje , Daelemans Dirk , Fabijanić Ivana , Stojković Marijana Radić , Hranjec Marijana
Published: February 2024

Newly designed pentacyclic benzimidazole derivatives featuring amino or amido side chains were synthesized to assess their in vitro antiproliferative activity. Additionally, we investigated their direct interaction with nucleic acids, aiming to uncover potential mechanisms of biological action. These compounds were prepared using conventional organic synthesis methodologies alongside photochemical and microwave-assisted reactions. Upon synthesis, the newly derived compounds underwent in vitro testing for their antiproliferative effects on various human cancer cell lines. Notably, derivatives 6 and 9 exhibited significant antiproliferative activity within the submicromolar concentration range. The biological activity was strongly influenced by the N atom’s position on the quinoline moiety and the position and nature of the side chain on the pentacyclic skeleton. Findings from fluorescence, circular dichroism spectroscopy, and thermal melting assays pointed toward a mixed binding mode—comprising intercalation and the binding of aggregated compounds along the polynucleotide backbone—of these pentacyclic benzimidazoles with DNA and RNA.
Alcohol Consumption, High-Density Lipoprotein Particles and Subspecies, and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: Findings from the PREVEND Prospective Study
Authors: Kunutsor Setor K. , Bhattacharjee Atanu , Connelly Margery A. , Bakker Stephan J. L. , Dullaart Robin P. F.
Published: February 2024

The associations of HDL particle (HDL-P) and subspecies concentrations with alcohol consumption are unclear. We aimed to evaluate the interplay between alcohol consumption, HDL parameters and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. In the PREVEND study of 5151 participants (mean age, 53 years; 47.5% males), self-reported alcohol consumption and HDL-P and subspecies (small, medium, and large) by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy were assessed. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs for first CVD events were estimated. In multivariable linear regression analyses, increasing alcohol consumption increased HDL-C, HDL-P, large and medium HDL, HDL size, and HDL subspecies (H3P, H4P, H6 and H7) in a dose-dependent manner. During a median follow-up of 8.3 years, 323 first CVD events were recorded. Compared with abstainers, the multivariable adjusted HRs (95% CIs) of CVD for occasional to light, moderate, and heavy alcohol consumers were 0.72 (0.55–0.94), 0.74 (0.54–1.02), and 0.65 (0.38–1.09), respectively. These associations remained consistent on additional adjustment for each HDL parameter. For CVD, only HDL-C was associated with a statistically significant decreased risk of CVD in a fully adjusted analysis (HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.72–0.97 per 1 SD increment). For coronary heart disease, HDL-C, HDL-P, medium HDL, HDL size, and H4P showed inverse associations, whereas HDL-C and HDL size modestly increased stroke risk. Except for H6P, alcohol consumption did not modify the associations between HDL parameters and CVD risk. The addition of HDL-C, HDL size, or H4P to a CVD risk prediction model containing established risk factors improved risk discrimination. Increasing alcohol consumption is associated with increased HDL-C, HDL-P, large and medium HDL, HDL size, and some HDL subspecies. Associations of alcohol consumption with CVD are largely independent of HDL parameters. The associations of HDL parameters with incident CVD are generally not attenuated or modified by alcohol consumption.
Stakeholder Views of the Proposed Introduction of Next Generation Sequencing into the Cystic Fibrosis Screening Protocol in England
Authors: Holder Pru , Clark Corinna C. , Moody Louise , Boardman Felicity K. , Cowlard Jacqui , Allen Lorna , Walter Claire , Bonham James R. , Chudleigh Jane
Published: February 2024

The project aimed to gather, analyse, and compare the views of stakeholders about the proposed UK cystic fibrosis (CF) screening protocol incorporating next generation sequencing (NGS). The study design was based on principles of Q-methodology with a willingness-to-pay exercise. Participants were recruited from 12 CF centres in the UK. The study contained twenty-eight adults who have experience with CF (parents of children with CF (n = 21), including parents of children with CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-related metabolic syndrome (CRMS)/CF screen positive—inconclusive diagnosis (CFSPID), an uncertain outcome (n = 3), and adults with CF (n = 4)), and nine health professionals involved in caring for children with CF. Parents and health professionals expressed a preference for a sensitive approach to NGS. This was influenced by the importance participants placed on not missing any children with CF via screening and the balance of harm between missing a case of CF compared to picking up more children with an uncertain outcome (CRMS/CFSPID). Given the preference for a sensitive approach, the need for adequate explanations about potential outcomes including uncertainty (CFSPID) at the time of screening was emphasized. More research is needed to inform definitive guidelines for managing children with an uncertain outcome following CF screening.
Scrum@PA: Tailoring an Agile Methodology to the Digital Transformation in the Public Sector
Authors: Ciancarini Paolo , Giancarlo Raffaele , Grimaudo Gennaro
Published: February 2024

Digital transformation in the public sector provides digital services to the citizens aiming at increasing their quality of life, as well as the transparency and accountability of a public administration. Since adaptation to the citizens changing needs is central for its success, Agile methodologies seem best suited for the software development of digital services in that area. However, as well documented by an attempt to use Scrum for an important Public Administration in Italy, substantial modifications to standard Agile were needed, giving rise to a new proposal called improved Agile (in short, iAgile). Another notable example is the Scrum@IMI method developed by the City of Barcelona for the deployment of its digital services. However, given the importance of digital transformation in the public sector and the scarcity of efforts (documented in the scholarly literature) to effectively bring Agile within it, a strategically important contribution that Computer Science can offer is a general paradigm describing how to tailor Agile methodologies and, in particular, Scrum, for such a specific context. Our proposal, called Scrum@PA, addresses this strategic need. Based on it, a public administration has a technically sound avenue to follow to adopt Scrum rather than a generic set of guidelines as in the current state of the art. We show the validity of our proposal by describing how the quite successful Scrum@IMI approach can be derived from Scrum@PA. Although iAgile can also be derived from our paradigm, we have chosen Scrum@IMI as a pilot example since it is publicly available on GitHub.
Exploring the Impact of Body Position on Attentional Orienting
Authors: Soret Rébaï , Prea Noemie , Peysakhovich Vsevolod
Published: February 2024

Attentional orienting is a crucial process in perceiving our environment and guiding human behavior. Recent studies have suggested a forward attentional bias, where faster reactions are observed to spatial cues indicating information appearing in the forward rather than the rear direction. This study investigated how the body position affects attentional orienting, using a modified version of the Posner cueing task within a virtual reality environment. Participants, seated at a 90° angle or reclined at 45°, followed arrows directing their attention to one of four spatial positions where a spaceship will appear, visible either through transparent windows (front space) or in mirrors (rear space). Their task was to promptly identify the spaceship’s color as red or blue. The results indicate that participants reacted more swiftly when the cue correctly indicated the target’s location (valid cues) and when targets appeared in the front rather than the rear. Moreover, the “validity effect”—the advantage of valid over invalid cues—on early eye movements, varied based on both the participant’s body position and the target’s location (front or rear). These findings suggest that the body position may modulate the forward attentional bias, highlighting its relevance in attentional orienting. This study’s implications are further discussed within contexts like aviation and space exploration, emphasizing the necessity for precise and swift responses to stimuli across diverse spatial environments.
Juvenile Hormone Involved in the Defensive Behaviors of Soldiers in Termite Reticulitermes aculabialis
Authors: Li Yiying , Yin Letong , Guo Ruiyao , Du Yunliang , Wang Bo , Liu Long , Li Zhenya , Liu Wei , Zhang Guozhi , An Shiheng , Yin Xinming , Su Lijuan
Published: February 2024

Eusocial insects have evolved specific defensive strategies to protect their colonies. In termite colonies, soldiers perform a colony-level defense by displaying mechanical biting, head-banging and mandible opening–closing behaviors. However, few studies have been reported on the factors modulating defensive behaviors in termites. Owing to JH (juvenile hormone) being involved in soldier differentiation, JH was speculated to affect defensive behaviors in termite soldiers. To determine the effect of JH on the defensive behaviors of termite soldiers, we performed a JHA-feeding and RaSsp1-silencing experiment and then tested the changes in defense-related behaviors, alarm pheromones and key JH signaling genes. The observed result was that after feeding workers with JHA, soldiers displayed the following: (1) decreased biting events and increased head-banging events; (2) a reduced expression of RaSsp1 and increased expression of Met (methoprene-tolerant, the nuclear receptor of JH) and Kr-h1 (the JH-inducible transcription factor Krüppel homolog 1); and (3) a decreased concentration of alarm pheromones, including α-pinene, β-pinene and limonene (+, −). Further study showed that soldiers silenced for RaSsp1 also exhibited (1) decreased biting events and increased head-banging events and (2) increased expression of Met and Kr-h1. In addition, soldiers stimulated by the alarm pheromone limonene displayed an increase in the frequency of mandible opening–closing and biting behavior. All of these results show that JHA influenced the defensive behaviors of termite soldiers, possibly via downregulating RaSsp1 expression, up-regulating Met and Kr-h1 and stimulating the secretion of alarm pheromones, suggesting that the JH pathway plays important roles in modulating social behaviors in termite colonies.
Bioassessment of Macroinvertebrate Communities Influenced by Gradients of Human Activities
Authors: Li Rui , Li Xianfu , Yang Ronglong , Farooq Muhammad , Tian Zhen , Xu Yaning , Shao Nan , Liu Shuoran , Xiao Wen
Published: February 2024

This study explores the impact of anthropogenic land use changes on the macroinvertebrate community structure in the streams of the Cangshan Mountains. Through field collections of macroinvertebrates, measurement of water environments, and delineation of riparian zone land use in eight streams, we analyzed the relationship between land use types, stream water environments, and macroinvertebrate diversities. The results demonstrate urban land use type and water temperature are the key environmental factors driving the differences in macroinvertebrate communities up-, mid-, and downstream. The disturbed streams had lower aquatic biodiversity than those in their natural state, showing a decrease in disturbance-sensitive aquatic insect taxa and a more similar community structure. In the natural woodland area, species distributions may be constrained by watershed segmentation and present more complex community characteristics.
Application of Nuclear Medicine Techniques in Musculoskeletal Infection: Current Trends and Future Prospects
Authors: Valero-Martínez Cristina , Castillo-Morales Valentina , Gómez-León Nieves , Hernández-Pérez Isabel , Vicente-Rabaneda Esther F. , Uriarte Miren , Castañeda Santos
Published: February 2024

Nuclear medicine has become an indispensable discipline in the diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal infections. Radionuclide tests serve as a valuable diagnostic tool for patients suspected of having osteomyelitis, spondylodiscitis, or prosthetic joint infections. The choice of the most suitable imaging modality depends on various factors, including the affected area, potential extra osseous involvement, or the impact of previous bone/joint conditions. This review provides an update on the use of conventional radionuclide imaging tests and recent advancements in fusion imaging scans for the differential diagnosis of musculoskeletal infections. Furthermore, it examines the role of radionuclide scans in monitoring treatment responses and explores current trends in their application. We anticipate that this update will be of significant interest to internists, rheumatologists, radiologists, orthopedic surgeons, rehabilitation physicians, and other specialists involved in musculoskeletal pathology.
Epidural Spinal Cord Stimulation for Spinal Cord Injury in Humans: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chalif J. I. , Chavarro V. S. , Mensah E. , Johnston B. , Fields D. P. , Chalif E. J. , Chiang M. , Sutton O. , Yong R. , Trumbower R. , Lu Y.
Published: February 2024

(1) Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a major health challenge, often leading to significant and permanent sensorimotor and autonomic dysfunctions. This study reviews the evolving role of epidural spinal cord stimulation (eSCS) in treating chronic SCI, focusing on its efficacy and safety. The objective was to analyze how eSCS contributes to the recovery of neurological functions in SCI patients. (2) Methods: We utilized the PRISMA guidelines and performed a comprehensive search across MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore databases up until September 2023. We identified studies relevant to eSCS in SCI and extracted assessments of locomotor, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and genitourinary functions. (3) Results: A total of 64 studies encompassing 306 patients were identified. Studies investigated various stimulation devices, parameters, and rehabilitation methods. Results indicated significant improvements in motor function: 44% of patients achieved assisted or independent stepping or standing; 87% showed enhanced muscle activity; 65% experienced faster walking speeds; and 80% improved in overground walking. Additionally, eSCS led to better autonomic function, evidenced by improvements in bladder and sexual functions, airway pressures, and bowel movements. Notable adverse effects included device migration, infections, and post-implant autonomic dysreflexia, although these were infrequent. (4) Conclusion: Epidural spinal cord stimulation is emerging as an effective and generally safe treatment for chronic SCI, particularly when combined with intensive physical rehabilitation. Future research on standardized stimulation parameters and well-defined therapy regimens will optimize benefits for specific patient populations.
Experimental Comparative Analysis of the Through-Thickness and In-Plane Compression Moduli of Unidirectional CFRP Laminates
Authors: Bogenfeld Raffael
Published: February 2024

This study explores the experimental characterization of the through-thickness compression properties in unidirectional laminates using cube compression tests. Cubical specimens, each with an edge length of 10 mm, were symmetrically outfitted with biaxial strain gauges and subjected to a compression test. While similar methodologies exist in the literature, this work primarily addresses the potential biases inherent in the testing procedure and their mitigation. The influence of friction-induced non-uniform deformation behavior is compensated through a scaling of the stiffness measurements using finite element (FE) analysis results. This scaling significantly enhances the accuracy of the resulting parameters of the experiments. The ultimate failure of the specimens, originating from stress concentrations at the edges, resulted in fracture angles ranging between 60° and 67°. Such fracture patterns, consistent with findings from other researchers, are attributed to shear stress induced by friction at the load introduction faces. The key findings of this research are the comparisons between the through-thickness modulus (E33c) and strength (X33c) and their in-plane counterparts (E22c and X22c). The results indicate deteriorations of E33c and X33c from E22c and X22c by margins of 5% and 7%, respectively. Furthermore, the results for E22c and X22c were compared with the results obtained through a standard test, revealing a 12% enhancement in strength X22c and 4% underestimated stiffness E22c in the cube compression test.
Negative Thermal Expansion Metamaterials: A Review of Design, Fabrication, and Applications
Authors: Dubey Devashish , Mirhakimi Anooshe Sadat , Elbestawi Mohamed A.
Published: February 2024

Most materials conventionally found in nature expand with an increase in temperature. In actual systems and assemblies like precision instruments, this can cause thermal distortions which can be difficult to handle. Materials with a tendency to shrink with an increase in temperature can be used alongside conventional materials to restrict the overall dimensional change of structures. Such structures, also called negative-thermal-expansion materials, could be crucial in applications like electronics, biomedicine, aerospace components, etc., which undergo high changes in temperature. This can be achieved using mechanically engineered materials, also called negative thermal expansion (NTE) mechanical metamaterials. Mechanical metamaterials are mechanically architected materials with novel properties that are rare in naturally occurring materials. NTE metamaterials utilize their artificially engineered architecture to attain the rare property of negative thermal expansion. The emergence of additive manufacturing has enabled the feasible production of their intricate architectures. Industrial processes such as laser powder bed fusion and direct energy deposition, both utilized in metal additive manufacturing, have proven successful in creating complex structures like lattice formations and multimaterial components in the industrial sector, rendering them suitable for manufacturing NTE structures. Nevertheless, this review examines a range of fabrication methods, encompassing both additive and traditional techniques, and explores the diverse materials used in the process. Despite NTE metamaterials being a prominent field of research, a comprehensive review of these architected materials is missing in the literature. This article aims to bridge this gap by providing a state-of-the-art review of these metamaterials, encompassing their design, fabrication, and cutting-edge applications.
Leveraging Machine Learning for Personalized Wearable Biomedical Devices: A Review
Authors: Olyanasab Ali , Annabestani Mohsen
Published: February 2024

This review investigates the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and personalized health monitoring through wearable devices, classifying them into three distinct categories: bio-electrical, bio-impedance and electro-chemical, and electro-mechanical. Wearable devices have emerged as promising tools for personalized health monitoring, utilizing machine learning to distill meaningful insights from the expansive datasets they capture. Within the bio-electrical category, these devices employ biosignal data, such as electrocardiograms (ECGs), electromyograms (EMGs), electroencephalograms (EEGs), etc., to monitor and assess health. The bio-impedance and electro-chemical category focuses on devices measuring physiological signals, including glucose levels and electrolytes, offering a holistic understanding of the wearer’s physiological state. Lastly, the electro-mechanical category encompasses devices designed to capture motion and physical activity data, providing valuable insights into an individual’s physical activity and behavior. This review critically evaluates the integration of machine learning algorithms within these wearable devices, illuminating their potential to revolutionize healthcare. Emphasizing early detection, timely intervention, and the provision of personalized lifestyle recommendations, the paper outlines how the amalgamation of advanced machine learning techniques with wearable devices can pave the way for more effective and individualized healthcare solutions. The exploration of this intersection promises a paradigm shift, heralding a new era in healthcare innovation and personalized well-being.
Laparoscopic Management of Multiple Liver, Omental, Mesenteric, Peritoneal, and Round Ligament Hydatid Cysts—A Rare Report of a Case and a Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Mihetiu Alin , Bratu Dan Georgian , Tanasescu Ciprian , Vintilă Bogdan Ioan , Sandu Alexandra , Sandu Mariana , Serban Dragos , Sabau Dan , Hasegan Adrian
Published: February 2024

Hydatid cyst disease is a parasitic ailment with an endemic nature, predominantly affecting geographical areas with a tradition in animal husbandry. The most common localization of hydatid disease is in the liver (60%), followed by the lungs, with other organ localizations comprising less than 10%. The surgical approach to this condition can be carried out through open surgery or laparoscopy. The coexistence of hepatic and intraperitoneal hydatidosis often leads to the preference for open surgery. We performed a literature review aiming to retrieve data regarding demographic characteristics, clinical features, preoperative management, and surgical approach concerning these unusual localizations of hydatid disease. It was observed that the mesenteric localization frequently presented with acute abdominal pain (p = 0.038) and that the open approach was preferred in 85.71% of cases. Furthermore, an interdependence was identified between the localization of the cysts and the type of surgical approach (p = 0.001), with mesenteric localizations being approached through laparotomy and excision (p = 0.037), while omental localizations, due to the easier approach, benefited from laparoscopy with excision in 14.29% of cases. Overall, the laparoscopic approach was less frequently used, but its utilization resulted in a lower number of complications and faster recovery. Additionally, we present a rare case of hepatic and intra-abdominal hydatidosis, resolved exclusively through a laparoscopic approach, including a review of the literature for these uncommon localizations of hydatid disease. A 45-year-old patient diagnosed with multiple hydatid cysts, both hepatic and intraperitoneal, underwent surgical intervention with exploratory laparoscopy. Laparoscopic excision of peritoneal, epiploic, mesenteric cysts, and round ligament, along with laparoscopic inactivation, evacuation, and pericystectomy of hepatic hydatid cysts, was performed. The patient’s recovery was uneventful, and she was reevaluated at 3 and 9 months without signs of recurrence. The association of hepatic hydatid cysts with multiple intra-abdominal localizations is not commonly encountered. The treatment of choice is surgical and is predominantly conducted through open surgery. The presented case is unique due to the exclusive laparoscopic approach in the management of mixed hepatic and intra-abdominal hydatidosis.
Triple Entry Accounting
Authors: Grigg Ian
Published: February 2024

Classical double entry accounting has provided the foundation for accounting within the firm for many centuries. The digitally signed receipt, an innovation from financial cryptography, gives rise to exactly duplicated entries for each of 3 parties or roles, the outcome of which we call triple entry accounting. This presents a challenge to double entry bookkeeping by expanding the use of accounting from inside firms to activity between the firms. When applied to digital cash and digital assets, the approach of negotiating a single signed receipt between parties lowers costs by delivering reliable data to support stronger accounting, and makes much stronger governance possible in a way that positively impacts on the future needs of corporate and public accounting. By turning the opinions of firm owners into facts agreed between firms, triple entry bookkeeping creates the bulletproof accounting layer to support aggressive uses and adversarial users such as are found in the Bitcoin system of transactions.
A Comparison of the Tribological Properties of Two Phosphonium Ionic Liquids
Authors: Horng Jeng-Haur , Ta Thi-Na , Kreivaitis Raimondas , Treinytė Jolanta , Kupčinskas Artūras , Gumbytė Milda
Published: February 2024

For over two decades, ionic liquids have been among the most exciting lubrication topics. Ionic liquids were investigated by using them as neat lubricants and lubricity-enhancing additives. However, new and unique features were revealed by introducing new ionic liquids. This paper compares the tribological properties of two ionic liquids with the same trihexyltetradecylphosphonium [P 6,6,6,14] cation and different anions—dicyanamide [DCN] and bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)phosphinate. The widely investigated 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate [BMIM] [PF6] ionic liquid was used as a reference. The lubricity was comprehensively investigated using two testing modes: reciprocation in a ball-on-plate tribometer and continuous sliding in a ball-on-disc tribometer. The tests were performed at temperatures of 30 and 80 °C. The friction, wear, and film thickness were evaluated, and a worn surface analysis was conducted. It was found that in the case of reciprocation, anion has a significant effect on the lubricity. The difference was particularly evident when the results at two temperatures were compared. The ability to build a low-friction tribo-film was suggested as the primer source of lubricity. In the case of continuous sliding, the differences were not as noticeable. In this case, viscosity was assigned to be the leading property.
Machinability and Surface Properties of Cryogenic Poly(methyl methacrylate) Machined via Single-Point Diamond Turning
Authors: Wu Xiaoyu , Kang Qiang , Jiang Xiaoxing , Fang Xudong
Published: February 2024

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), with a glass transition temperature (Tg) over 100 °C, shows good mechanical and optical properties and has broad applications after being machined with single-point diamond turning (SPDT) at room temperature. Because of the high Tg, current efforts mostly focus on optimizing machining parameters to improve workpiece precision without considering the modification of material properties. Cryogenic cooling has been proven to be an effective method in assisting ultra-precision machining for certain types of metals, alloys, and polymers, but has never been used for PMMA before. In this work, cryogenic cooling was attempted during the SPDT of PMMA workpieces to improve surface quality. The machinability and surface properties of cryogenically cooled PMMA were investigated based on the mechanical properties at corresponding temperatures. Nanoindentation tests show that, when temperature is changed from 25 °C to 0 °C, the hardness and Young’s modulus are increased by 37% and 22%, respectively. At these two temperature points, optimal parameters including spindle speed, feed rate and cut depth were obtained using Taguchi methods to obtain workpieces with high surface quality. The surface quality was evaluated based on the total height of the profile (Pt) and the arithmetic mean deviation (Ra). The measurement results show that the values of Pt and Ra of the workpiece machined at 0 °C are 124 nm and 6 nm, respectively, while the corresponding values of that machined at 25 °C are 291 nm and 11 nm. The test data show that cryogenic machining is useful for improving the form accuracy and reducing the surface roughness of PMMA. Moreover, the relationship between temperature, material properties and machinability weas established with dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) data and a theoretical model. This can explain the origin of the better surface quality of the cryogenic material. The basis of this is that temperature affects the viscoelasticity of the polymer and the corresponding mechanical properties due to relaxation. Then, the material property changes will affect surface profile formation during machining. The experimental results and theoretical analysis show that cryogenically cooled PMMA has good machinability and improved surface quality when using SPDT compared to that at ambient temperature.
Investigation of the Chemiluminescent Reaction of a Fluorinated Analog of Marine Coelenterazine
Authors: Magalhães Carla M. , Esteves da Silva Joaquim C. G. , Pinto da Silva Luís
Published: February 2024

Bioluminescence (BL) and chemiluminescence (CL) are remarkable processes in which light is emitted due to (bio)chemical reactions. These reactions have attracted significant attention for various applications, such as biosensing, bioimaging, and biomedicine. Some of the most relevant and well-studied BL/CL systems are that of marine imidazopyrazine-based compounds, among which Coelenterazine is a prime example. Understanding the mechanisms behind efficient chemiexcitation is essential for the optimization and development of practical applications for these systems. Here, the CL of a fluorinated Coelenterazine analog was studied using experimental and theoretical approaches to obtain insight into these processes. Experimental analysis revealed that CL is more efficient under basic conditions than under acidic ones, which could be attributed to the higher relative chemiexcitation efficiency of an anionic dioxetanone intermediate over a corresponding neutral species. However, theoretical calculations indicated that the reactions of both species are similarly associated with both electron and charge transfer processes, which are typically used to explain efficiency chemiexcitation. So, neither process appears to be able to explain the relative chemiexcitation efficiencies observed. In conclusion, this study provides further insight into the mechanisms behind the chemiexcitation of imidazopyrazinone-based systems.
A PEGylated PVDF Antifouling Membrane Prepared by Grafting of Methoxypolyethylene Glycol Acrylate in Gama-Irradiated Homogeneous Solution
Authors: Wang Ting , Hou Zhengchi , Yang Haijun , Hu Jun
Published: February 2024

In this study, methoxypolyethylene glycol acrylate (mPEGA) served as a PEGylated monomer and was grafted onto polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) through homogeneous solution gamma irradiation. The grafting process was confirmed using several techniques, including infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermodynamic stability assessments, and rotational viscosity measurements. The degree of grafting (DG) was determined via the gravimetric method. By varying the monomer concentration, a range of DGs was achieved in the PVDF-g-mPEGA copolymers. Investigations into water contact angles and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images indicated a direct correlation between increased hydrophilicity, membrane porosity, and higher DG levels in the PVDF-g-mPEGA membrane. Filtration tests demonstrated that enhanced DGs resulted in more permeable PVDF-g-mPEGA membranes, eliminating the need for pore-forming agents. Antifouling tests revealed that membranes with a lower DG maintained a high flux recovery rate, indicating that the innate properties of PVDF could be largely preserved.
Benefits of Femtosecond Laser 40 MHz Burst Mode for Li-Ion Battery Electrode Structuring
Authors: Sikora Aurélien , Gemini Laura , Faucon Marc , Mincuzzi Girolamo
Published: February 2024

In Li-ion batteries, ion diffusion kinetics represent a limitation to combine high capacity and a fast charging rate. To bypass this, textured electrodes have been demonstrated to increase the active surface, decrease the material tortuosity and accelerate the electrolyte wetting. Amongst the structuring technologies, ultrashort pulse laser processing may represent the key option enabling, at the same time, high precision, negligible material deterioration and high throughput. Here, we report a study on the structuring of electrodes with both holes and grooves reaching the metallic collector. Electrochemical models emphasize the importance of hole and line dimensions for the performances of the cell. We demonstrate that we can control the hole and line width by adjusting the applied fluence and the repetition rate. In addition, results show that it is possible to drill 65 µm-deep and ~15 µm-wide holes in nearly 100 µs resulting in up to 10,000 holes/s. To further reduce the takt time, bursts of 40 MHz pulses were also investigated. We show that bursts can reduce the takt time by a factor that increases with the average power and the burst length. Moreover, at comparable fluence, we show that bursts can shorten the process more than theoretically expected.
Realization of Large Low-Stress Elastocaloric Effect in TiZrNbAl Alloy
Authors: Lv Bang-He , Xiang Hua-You , Gao Shang , Guo Yan-Xin , Yang Jin-Han , Zou Nai-Fu , Zhao Xiaoli , Li Zongbin , Yang Bo , Jia Nan , Yan Hai-Le , Zuo Liang
Published: February 2024

Seeking novel high-performance elastocaloric materials with low critical stress plays a crucial role in advancing the development of elastocaloric refrigeration technology. Here, as a first attempt, the elastocaloric effect of TiZrNbAl shape memory alloy at both room temperature and finite temperatures ranging from 245 K to 405 K, is studied systematically. Composition optimization shows that Ti-19Zr-14Nb-1Al (at.%), possessing excellent room-temperature superelasticity with a critical stress of around 100 MPa and a small stress hysteresis of around 70 MPa and outstanding fracture resistance with a compressive strain of 20% and stress of 1.7 GPa, demonstrates a substantial advantage as an elastocaloric refrigerant. At room temperature, a large adiabatic temperature change (ΔTad) of −6.7 K is detected, which is comparable to the highest value reported in the Ti-based alloys. A high elastocaloric cyclic stability, with almost no degradation of ΔTad after 4000 cycles, is observed. Furthermore, the sizeable elastocaloric effect can be steadily expanded from 255 K to 395 K with a temperature window of as large as 140 K. A maximum ΔTad of −7.9 K appears at 355 K. The present work demonstrates a promising potential of TiZrNbAl as a low critical stress and low hysteresis elastocaloric refrigerant.
Supply Chain Inventory Management from the Perspective of “Cloud Supply Chain”—A Data Driven Approach
Authors: Tan Yue , Gu Liyi , Xu Senyu , Li Mingchao
Published: February 2024

This study systematically investigates the pivotal role of inventory management within the framework of “cloud supply chain” operations, emphasizing the efficacy of leveraging machine learning methodologies for inventory allocation with the dual objectives of cost reduction and heightened customer satisfaction. Employing a rigorous data-driven approach, the research endeavors to address inventory allocation challenges inherent in the complex dynamics of a “cloud supply chain” through the implementation of a two-stage model. Initially, machine learning is harnessed for demand forecasting, subsequently refined through the empirical distribution of forecast errors, culminating in the optimization of inventory allocation across various service levels.The empirical evaluation draws upon data derived from a reputable home appliance logistics company in China, revealing that, under conditions of ample data, the application of data-driven methods for inventory allocation surpasses the performance of traditional methods across diverse supply chain structures. Specifically, there is an improvement in accuracy by approximately 13% in an independent structure and about 16% in a dependent structure. This study transcends the constraints associated with examining a singular node, adopting an innovative research perspective that intricately explores the interplay among multiple nodes while elucidating the nuanced considerations germane to supply chain structure. Furthermore, it underscores the methodological significance of relying on extensive, large-scale data. The investigation brings to light the substantial impact of supply chain structure on safety stock allocation. In the context of a market characterized by highly uncertain demand, the strategic adaptation of the supply chain structure emerges as a proactive measure to avert potential disruptions in the supply chain.
Modeling Asymmetric Dependence Structure of Air Pollution Characteristics: A Vine Copula Approach
Authors: Ismail Mohd Sabri , Masseran Nurulkamal , Alias Mohd Almie , Abu Bakar Sakhinah
Published: February 2024

Contaminated air is unhealthy for people to breathe and live in. To maintain the sustainability of clean air, air pollution must be analyzed and controlled, especially after unhealthy events. To do so, the characteristics of unhealthy events, namely intensity, duration, and severity are studied using multivariate modeling. In this study, the vine copula approach is selected to study the characteristics data. Vine copula is chosen here because it is more potent than the standard multivariate distributions, and multivariate copulas, especially in modeling the tails related to extreme events. Here, all nine different vine copulas are analyzed and compared based on model fitting and the comparison of models. In model fitting, the best model obtained is Rv123-Joint-MLE, a model with a root nodes sequence of 123, and optimized using the joint maximum likelihood. The components for the best model are the Tawn type 1 and Rotated Tawn type 1 180 degrees representing the pair copulas of (intensity, duration), and (intensity, severity), respectively, with the Survival Gumbel for the conditional pair copula of (duration, severity; intensity). Based on the best model, the tri-variate dependence structure of the intensity, duration, and severity relationship is positively correlated, skewed, and follows an asymmetric distribution. This indicates that the characteristic’s, including intensity, duration, and severity, tend to increase together. Using comparison tests, the best model is significantly different from others, whereas only two models are quite similar. This shows that the best model is well-fitted, compared to most models. Overall, this paper highlights the capability of vine copula in modeling the asymmetric dependence structure of air pollution characteristics, where the obtained model has a better potential to become a tool to assess the risks of extreme events in future work.
Role of Nutritional Habits during Pregnancy in the Developing of Gestational Diabetes: A Single-Center Observational Clinical Study
Authors: Trifunovic-Kubat Jelena , Sazdanovic Predrag , Ilic Milos , Filipovic Djordje , Nikolic Turnic Tamara , Mihajlovic Sladjana
Published: February 2024

(1) Background and Objective: Excessive gestational weight gain is associated with serious complications such as pre-eclampsia, fetal macrosomia and a more frequent need for cesarean section. The aim of this study is to develop a simple screening model that includes maternal age, BMI and nutritive habits in the second trimester in order to predict the risk of GDM in the population of pregnant women in the territory of the Republic of Serbia. (2) Materials and Methods: This single-center, prospective and case–control study was performed in the University Clinical Center “Dr. Dragisa Misovic Dedinje”, Belgrade, Serbia and included 54 women with singleton pregnancies during the second trimester from July 2023 to November 2023. We used basic demographic and socio-epidemiological data, as well as data of the present comorbidities and previous pregnancies/births. The Serbian version of the Nutritive Status Questionnaire (NSQ) was used to estimate the nutritive habits in GDM (n = 22) and non-GDM groups (n = 32). (3) Results: We observed less frequent vegetable and fruit consumption in the GDM group in comparison with the non-GDM group; meat and chicken intake was 2–3 times per week in both groups; meat products were consumed 2–3 times per week in the GDM group and 2–3 times per month in the non-GDM group; milk products were consumed once a day in 31.8% of GDM patients and twice per day in 24.1% of non-GDM patients. Sweets (cakes, ice creams, biscuits) were consumed very often (2–3 times per week) in the GDM group (36.4%), while in the non-GDM group this habit was less frequent (26.7%). Cronbach alpha and internal consistency for this instrument were very good (Cronbach alpha = 0.87). (4) Conclusions: We have found that a non-adequate intake of fruits/vegetables, dairy and whole grain, as well as an excessive intake of sugar/artificially sweetened beverages and dairy, was associated with a higher risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (OR = 0.04; 95% CI).
Effects of Chemical Short-Range Order and Lattice Distortion on Crack-Tip Behavior of Medium-Entropy Alloy by Atomistic Simulations
Authors: Zhu Xiuju , Cao Fuhua , Dai Lanhong , Chen Yan
Published: February 2024

It is well demonstrated that the complex chemical fluctuations on high/medium-entropy alloys (H/MEAs) play critical roles in their deformation process, but there are few reports related to the effect of such complex chemical fluctuations on the crack behavior. In this paper, the effects of chemical short-range order (CSRO) and lattice distortion (LD) on the crack-tip behavior of CrCoNi MEAs under mode I loading at room temperature are investigated by carrying out molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, hybrid MD/Monte-Carlo (MC) simulation and the J-integral method. The results reveal that CSRO can improve the J-integral value without significant changes in the localized deformation zone size. On the contrary, LD can lower the J-integral value with an increase in the localized deformation zone size. The energetic analysis shows that CSRO improves the activation energy barrier of Shockley partial dislocation from the crack-tip while LD reduces the activation energy barrier. Our work is a step forward in understanding the effects of CSRO and LD on the crack-tip behavior and deformation mechanisms of CrCoNi MEAs.