bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКА ПОКАЗНИКІВ ОКСИДАТИВНОГО СТРЕСУ У ЧОЛОВІКІВ, ПОСТРАЖДАЛИХ ВНАСЛІДОК БОЙОВИХ ДІЙ
Authors: Воробець М. З. , Онуфрович О. К. , Воробець З. Д. , Беседіна А. С. , Мельник О. В. , Фафула Р. В. , Воробець Д. З.
Published: February 2024

Вступ. У ряді робіт встановлено, що оксидативний стрес призводить до зниження запліднювальної здатності сперматозоїдів, їх ушкодження та є одним із чинників, пов’язаних з чоловічим непліддям. У нормі підтримується баланс між прооксидантними й антиоксидантними процесами. За патологічного стану він порушується в напрямку неконтрольованої генерації вільних радикалів. Антиоксидантна захисна система включає як ензимні, так і неензимні компоненти, які знешкоджують активні форми кисню та вільні радикали, і захищає від надмірного впливу оксидативного стресу.

Мета дослідження – оцінити стан пероксидації ліпідів і неензиматичної ланки глутатіонової антиоксидантної системи лімфоцитів та сироватки периферичної крові у чоловіків, постраждалих внаслідок бойових дій (осколкові й кульові поранення).

Методи дослідження. Дослідження проводили на лімфоцитах і сироватці периферичної крові чоловіків, постраждалих внаслідок бойових дій, оскільки лімфоцити вважають “метаболічним дзеркалом” організму і вони оперативно реагують на всі зовнішні та внутрішні впливи. Визначали концентрацію малонового діальдегіду, загальну антиоксидантну активність, концентрацію відновленого, загального й окисненого глутатіону.

Результати й обговорення. Концентрація відновленого глутатіону в сироватці крові чоловіків, постраждалих внаслідок бойових дій, 1-ї вікової групи (20–39 років) знижувалася в 1,4 раза, а 2-ї (40–53 роки) – в 1,6 раза щодо контрольних значень. Концентрацiя загального глутатіону зменшувалася у постраждалих обох вікових груп в 1,2 раза. При цьому достовiрних змін концентрації окисненого глутатіону не було виявлено. Визначення аналогічних показників неензиматичної ланки глутатіонової антиоксидантної системи у лімфоцитах крові показало подібні закономірності, що й у сироватці крові. Обчислення редокс-індексу (RI GSH) продемонструвало зниження сумарної потужності антиоксидантної системи у лімфоцитах крові чоловiків, постраждалих внаслідок бойових дій, в 1,5 раза щодо практично здорових чоловіків.

Висновки. У чоловіків, постраждалих внаслідок бойових дій (осколкові й кульові поранення), які перебувають на стаціонарному лікуванні, як у лімфоцитах, так і в сироватці крові інтенсифіковані процеси пероксидації ліпідів, знижена концентрація відновленого глутатіону та зменшене співвідношення відновленого глутатіону до окисненого, що свідчить про порушення прооксидантно-антиоксидантної рівноваги в бік наростання прооксидантних процесів.
ДОСЛІДЖЕННЯ ВІДХАРКУВАЛЬНОЇ АКТИВНОСТІ ГУСТИХ ЕКСТРАКТІВ ДЯГЕЛЮ ЛІКАРСЬКОГО
Authors: Потішний І. М. , Марчишин С. М. , Слободянюк Л. В. , Демидяк О. Л.
Published: February 2024

Вступ. Дягель лікарський (Angelica archangelica L.; Archangelica officinalis (Moench.) Hoffm.) – дворічна трав’яниста рослина з родини селерові (Apiaceae), яка розповсюджена в країнах Європи, Азії та Північної Америки. В Україні цей вид зростає на Поліссі, Прикарпатті, в Лісостепу. Дягель лікарський широко використовують як у традиційній, так і в доказовій медицині багатьох країн як протизапальний, сечогінний, потогінний і заспокійливий засіб. Експериментальними фармакологічними дослідженнями доведено протиастматичний, антипроліферативний, радіопротекторний, протизапальний, антиоксидантний, протиалергічний, сечогінний, противиразковий, гепатопротекторний, знеболювальний, антигістамінний, цитотоксичний, противірусний і протигрибковий потенціал дягелю лікарського.

Мета дослідження – експериментально вивчити відхаркувальну активність густих екстрактів, одержаних з підземних органів і з листків дягелю лікарського.

Методи дослідження. Відхаркувальні властивості густих екстрактів дягелю лікарського вивчали у двох різних експериментах, за результатами яких оцінювали секреторну активність і моторну здатність бронхів. Референтним препаратом було обрано сироп “Геделікс”, який має секретолітичну, муколітичну та спазмолітичну дію (виробник “Кревель Мойзельбах ГмбХ”, Німеччина). Досліджувані густі екстракти з листків (ГЕЛД) та з кореневищ і коренів дягелю лікарського (ГЕКД) у дозах 100 та 150 мг/кг і препарат порівняння – сироп “Геделікс” із розрахунку 100 мг/кг вводили перорально мишам-самцям масою 18–20 г.

Результати й oбгoвoрення. Досліджуваний екстракт з підземних органів дягелю лікарського показав досить високу здатність секретувати мокротиння. Так, ГЕКД у дозі 150 мг/кг проявив найвищу здатність секретувати мокротиння – 203,9 % (у референс-препарату – сиропу “Геделікс” ця активність становила 257,7 %). У дозах 100 та 150 мг/кг ГЕЛД проявив дещо меншу секреторну здатність. Вона була у 2 рази нижчою від активності референс-препарату – сиропу “Геделікс” (111,5 і 115,4 % проти 257,7 %). Найвищу активність у зменшенні часу просування макових зернят по війчастому епітелію трахеї щурів щодо контролю мав сироп “Геделікс” у дозі 100 мг у перерахунку на екстракт плюща, що становило 33,4 %. З досліджуваних об’єктів дещо нижчу активність, порівняно з референс-препаратом, у зменшенні часу просування макових зернят по війчастому епітелію трахеї тварин проявив ГЕКД у дозі 150 мг на 250 мл інкубаційної суміші – 22,5 %, найнижчу активність – ГЕЛД у дозі 100 мг, що становило 5,9 %.

Висновки. Дослідження відхаркувальної дії густих екстрактів з листків та з кореневищ і коренів дягелю лікарського за впливом на рухову активність війчастого епітелію та секреторну функцію бронхів показали, що за цим ефектом активність досліджуваних екстрактів незначно поступалась активності препарату порівняння – сиропу “Геделікс”. Встановлено, що відхаркувальна активність густого екстракту з кореневищ і коренів дягелю лікарського переважала над відхаркувальною активністю густого екстракту з листків.
Ingobernables: autonomía y ritual en una sociedad compleja contra el estado
Authors: Neurath Johannes
Published: February 2024

Las comunidades wixaritari o huicholes de la Sierra Madre Occidental de México tienen una larga tradición de defender una organización política propia y una autonomía de facto en relación con el estado. En este ensayo, presento un breve análisis de su sistema político-ritual y argumento que los wixaritari pueden entenderse como una sociedad compleja contra el estado. La organización política-ritual no solamente reproduce un sistema de autoridad tradicional, sino también lo cuestiona permanentemente. También reproduce un mundo ontológicamente complejo de “partes sin un todo” que es imposible de gobernar.
Autonomia kaiowá e guarani: a ação dos ñanderu e ñandesy na criação do tekoha
Authors: João Izaque
Published: February 2024

O movimento de luta pela terra entre os Kaiowá e Guarani tem atuado desde os anos 80 em um processo de retomada de espaços reivindicados como terras de ocupação tradicional (chamados de tekoha) dessas comunidades no sul de Mato Grosso do Sul. Esses espaços onde os indígenas ingressam em busca de autodeterminação e autonomia precisam passar por uma transformação de dimensões cósmicas para que possam efetivamente tornar-se um tekoha – “lugar onde se pode viver do nosso próprio jeito”, e os cantos dos rezadores e rezadoras – ñanderu e ñandesy – são peça fundamental nesse processo. A partir da experiência do pesquisador indígena como integrante de uma rede familiar associada a uma retomada, o artigo oferece uma reflexão que elucida como, do ponto de vista dos rezadores, esse processo de constituição dos tekoha acontece.
“Um mundo onde caibam muitos mundos”: as palavras verdadeiras de educadores zapatistas
Authors: Morel Ana Paula Massadar
Published: February 2024

A máxima zapatista “por um mundo onde caibam muitos mundos” ressoa entre movimentos e acadêmicos, especialmente aqueles envolvidos na defesa das autonomias, da justiça climática e do pluriverso. Experimentamos, nesse artigo, pensar tal máxima a partir de etnografia realizada com educadores zapatistas tzotzil no Caracol de Oventic, articulando os “muitos mundos” no zapatismo. As Declarações zapatistas chamam para a composição nas diferenças, unindo a autonomia local à crítica anticapitalista e abrem possibilidades de uma reinvenção metafísica das práticas que habilitam o Antropoceno. Há um deslocamento de alguns termos chaves - como palavras, mundo, verdade - e de outros que são caros às filosofias políticas do ocidente - como trabalho, capitalismo, humano. O mundo do poderoso é um mundo falso, que enfraquece e tira o lugar de outros mundos e palavras verdadeiras. O mundo de muitos mundos não deve ser uma propriedade ou recurso, mas um lugar ao qual os seres verdadeiros (humanos e outros que humanos) pertencem.
Autonomia, a luta digna por uma vida-existência comum e a subversão da figura do ajvalil em Chiapas, México
Authors: Mora Mariana
Published: February 2024

Este ensaio aproxima-se das maneiras pelas quais as comunidades zapatistas tseltal, tsotsil, tojolabal e ch´ol no México teorizam o poder e exercem a política como parte de suas respectivas atividades cotidianas nos municípios autônomos do estado de Chiapas. Em particular, analisa dois conceitos em língua Tseltal. O primeiro deles, o conceito de lekil kuxlejal, refere-se a uma vida-existência digna no comum que é sustentada por meio do cuidado coletivo socionatural; o segundo deles, o de ajvalil, refere-se à figura do patrão-governo, que condensa dispositivos de poder caracterizados pela permanência de estruturas de natureza colonial. Ambos os conceitos adquirem intensidades e tonalidades particulares quando entram em campos de disputa política, particularmente quando são mobilizados por comunidades zapatistas tseltal, tsotsil, tojolabal e ch'ol para dar sustento ao exercício da autonomia em seu território, assim como para questionar e nomear as estruturas de poder contra as quais lutam.
História ambiental do Rio Taquari, Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Kreutz Marcos Rogério , Machado Neli Galarce , Hoppe Willian Henrique
Published: February 2024

Cerca de 80% da população mundial, nesse início da década de 2020, vive em áreas urbanas, o que indica uma enorme pressão antrópica sobre os recursos naturais. Normalmente, o curso natural dos rios é alterado para dar lugar às edificações e outras estruturas, as quais aumentam a impermeabilização do solo e alteram a lógica natural dos rios. Utilizando de precedentes científicos, têm-se os dados que mostram que, o Rio Taquari, selecionado para esta análise, tem sua relevância para a formação das cidades, dos movimentos humanos urbanos e rurais e para a construção de um imaginário coletivo devido a sua importância histórica, geográfica e econômica. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar a história do rio por meio das grandes enchentes que ocorreram no século XX no Rio Taquari, Rio Grande do Sul, a partir de referenciais bibliográficos e documentais. Busca-se examinar como o rio influenciou as sociedades que dependem dele para sobreviver e desenvolver sua cultura. Fontes documentais, diários de viajantes, dos naturalistas, relatórios de religiosos, jornais, entre outros, são as fontes para a consecução da história do rio.
Carbonylation of Runx2 at K176 by 4-Hydroxynonenal Accelerates Vascular Calcification
Authors: Zhai Xiaoxuan , Cao Shengchuan , Wang Jiali , Qiao Bao , Liu Xuehao , Hua Rui , Zhao Menglin , Sun Shukun , Han Yu , Wu Shuo , Pang Jiaojiao , Yuan Qiuhuan , Wang Bailu , Xu Feng , Wei Shujian , Chen Yuguo
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Vascular calcification, which is characterized by calcium deposition in arterial walls and the osteochondrogenic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells, is an actively regulated process that involves complex mechanisms. Vascular calcification is associated with increased cardiovascular adverse events. The role of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), which is the most abundant stable product of lipid peroxidation, in vascular calcification has been poorly investigated.

METHODS:

Serum was collected from patients with chronic kidney disease and controls, and the levels of 4-HNE and 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α were measured. Sections of coronary atherosclerotic plaques from donors were immunostained to analyze calcium deposition and 4-HNE. A total of 658 patients with coronary artery disease who received coronary computed tomography angiography were recruited to analyze the relationship between coronary calcification and the rs671 mutation in aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (
ALDH2
).
ALDH2
knockout (
ALDH2

-/
-

) mice, smooth muscle cell–specific
ALDH2
knockout mice,
ALDH2
transgenic mice, and their controls were used to establish vascular calcification models. Primary mouse aortic smooth muscle cells and human aortic smooth muscle cells were exposed to medium containing β-glycerophosphate and CaCl
2
to investigate cell calcification and the underlying molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS:

Elevated 4-HNE levels were observed in the serum of patients with chronic kidney disease and model mice and were detected in calcified artery sections by immunostaining.
ALDH2
knockout or smooth muscle cell–specific
ALDH2
knockout accelerated the development of vascular calcification in model mice, whereas overexpression or activation prevented mouse vascular calcification and the osteochondrogenic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells. In patients with coronary artery disease, patients with
ALDH2
rs671 gene mutation developed more severe coronary calcification. 4-HNE promoted calcification of both mouse aortic smooth muscle cells and human aortic smooth muscle cells and their osteochondrogenic differentiation in vitro. 4-HNE increased the level of Runx2 (runt-related transcription factor-2), and the effect of 4-HNE on promoting vascular smooth muscle cell calcification was ablated when Runx2 was knocked down. Mutation of Runx2 at lysine 176 reduced its carbonylation and eliminated the 4-HNE–induced upregulation of Runx2.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results suggest that 4-HNE increases Runx2 stabilization by directly carbonylating its K176 site and promotes vascular calcification. ALDH2 might be a potential target for the treatment of vascular calcification.
Self‐Reported Outdoor Light Exposure Time and Incident Heart Failure
Authors: Zhang Ziteng , Yu Bowei , Sun Ying , Zhang Kun , Tan Xiao , Lu Yingli , Wang Ningjian , Xia Fangzhen
Published: February 2024

Background

A healthy lifestyle is an important factor for preventing heart failure. However, the association between outdoor light exposure time and heart failure is still unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the association between outdoor light exposure time and the incidence of heart failure.

Methods and Results

This cohort study included participants from the UK Biobank recruited from 2006 to 2010 who were 40 to 70 years of age and free of heart failure at baseline. The mean follow‐up time was 12.61 years. The outdoor light exposure time was self‐reported at baseline. A restricted cubic spline was performed to examine the potential nonlinear relationship between outdoor light exposure and the incidence of heart failure. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs. During a mean follow‐up of 12.61 years, 13 789 participants were first diagnosed with heart failure. There was a nonlinear (J‐shaped) trend between outdoor light time and heart failure risk. Cox proportional hazard regression models showed that, compared with participants who received an average of 1.0 to 2.5 hours of outdoor light per day, those with <1.0 hours or >2.5 hours had a higher risk of heart failure after the model was adjusted for age and sex (<1.0 hours: HR, 1.27 [95% CI, 1.18–1.36]; >2.5 hours: HR, 1.11 [95% CI, 1.07–1.15]). These associations were still significant in the fully adjusted models (<1.0 hours: HR, 1.10 [95% CI, 1.03–1.18]; >2.5 hours: HR, 1.07 [95% CI, 1.03–1.11]).

Conclusions

We found a J‐shaped association between outdoor light exposure time and the risk of incident heart failure, suggesting that moderate exposure to outdoor light may be a prevention strategy for heart failure.
Retrospective study of standardised field exercise test on injury development, blood lactate and recovery time in endurance horses
Authors: Paris A. , Accorroni L. , Pepe M. , Cappelli K. , Chiaradia E. , Mecocci S. , Tognoloni A. , Passamonti F. , Pilati N. , Cercone M. , Beccati F.
Published: February 2024

This study investigated the effect of environment, horse and type of different field standardised exercise tests (fSET) on incremental lactate concentration and recovery time in endurance horses. Forty-eight endurance horses underwent one or multiple fSET on a 700-m all-weather racetrack. The fSET comprised phase 1 canter at 19.5-21.5 km/h for 19 km (group N), or 37 km split by 20 minutes of rest (group E1) or 37 km (group E2), followed by phase 2 canter at 26-32.6 km/h and phase 3 at 27.7-42.8 km/h, for 1,400 m each for all groups. Blood lactates were recorded after each phase. Linear mixed models were built with blood lactate value and recovery time as dependent variables and horse and environment data, and type of fSET as fixed effect variables, with horse and horse × fSET group as random effects. Data from a total of 130 fSETs were considered; lactate values were 0.78-7.73 mmol/l (median 1.79 mmol/l) for phase 1, 1.70-10.68 mmol/l (median 3.89 mmol/l) for phase 2, and 3.7-20.86 mmol/l (median 8.74 mmol/l) for phase 3. Blood lactate values after phase 1 and phase 2 were significantly lower in group E1 (median 1.49 mmol/l; median 3.12 mmol/l) compared with group N (median 2.77 mmol/l; median 5.28 mmol/l; ) and group E2 (median 2.06 mmol/l; median 4.39 mmol/l; ). Blood lactate after phase 3 did not differ between groups. There were two medical and 19 minor musculoskeletal issues within 2 hours after the fSETs. Weather temperature affected blood lactate values after phase 1 and 2 (R = 0.62-0.63). Blood lactate after phase 1 (R = 0.93) and 2 (R = 0.66) affected values after phase 2 and 3, respectively. There was a considerable variation among horses and horse × fSET group random effects. Moreover, blood lactate values are affected by both weather conditions and by horse individual characteristics.
‘Letters to Taiwanese Compatriots’: The prc’s Unification Ideology and Taiwanese Response in Cross-Strait Communication
Authors: Grano Simona A.
Published: February 2024

This article presents a political discourse analysis of the People’s Republic of China’s (prc) narration of Taiwan through the cross-Strait epistolary series ‘Letters to Taiwanese Compatriots’ released between 1950 and 2019. This study aims to discern the prc’s intent for domestic and international communication in framing Taiwan’s sovereignty into its own narrative using cultural, ideological, economic, and military appeals. In so doing, it explores the connection between storytelling, political communication, and military operations as evolving through the decades, starting with the cross-Strait crises of the 1950s, China’s establishment of diplomatic relations with foreign countries in the 1970s and its global rise in the last three decades. In the final part, we will analyse the response and several New Year’s addresses by Tsai Ing-wen between 2019 and 2022. This article unravels a crucial difference between the two sides of the Strait, crystallised in the fabrication of a dissimilar understanding of their respective historical, political, and cultural identities.
Taxonomic revision of the genus Chimonocalamus (Arundinarieae, Bambusoideae, Poaceae) in Thailand
Authors: ARTHAN WATCHARA , HODKINSON TREVOR R. , XIA NIANHE , WONG KHOON MENG , O-CHAKULL WERAYA , TEERAWATANANON ATCHARA , SUNGKAEW SARAWOOD
Published: February 2024

Chimonocalamus is a genus in the Arundinarieae (the tribe of temperate woody bamboos), distributed in the Eastern Himalayas, India, Myanmar, China, Thailand, and Vietnam. Distinguishing characters of the genus include pachymorph rhizomes, rings of root thorns at lower culm nodes, a branch complement of 3–5 subequal branches, paniculate inflorescences, and spikelets with 2 glumes and 3–6 florets. Taxonomic knowledge of Chimonocalamus in mainland Southeast Asia has grown as new species were reported from Thailand and Vietnam, adding to those previously documented mainly in China and India.
Such a situation supports an increased understanding in the geographic distribution and diversity of the group. The objective of this paper is to update the Chimonocalamus account for Thailand and summarize taxonomic information pertinent to future studies. Here, our taxonomic revision of Chimonocalamus in Thailand includes three species, C. auriculatus, C. elegans and C. gallatlyi; the latter is a new record for Thailand. Nomenclatural treatments, morphological descriptions, a photographic illustration of C. gallatlyi, and a current distribution map of three species are presented.
Deflection Basin Detection of Pavements Based on Linear Array Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) Photoelectric Sensors
Authors: Liu Wei
Published: February 2024

Deflection is an important indicator of the overall pavement strength, and it is generally detected using the Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD). In response to the shortcomings of FWD in use, a pavement deflection detection method based on a linear array charge-coupled device (CCD)
photoelectric displacement sensor is proposed. Firstly, a detailed description is given of the working principle of the deflection detection photoelectric sensor for the center point of the deflection basin and other points. Secondly, a photoelectric displacement sensor using linear array
CCD deflection detection is designed, including a laser, CCD signal processing module, CCD and its driver module, and upper computer communication module. Among them, the EPF10K20TC144-4 device of the FLEX 10K series from ALTERA company is used to generate CCD driving pulses; Two DM54LS245
are selected as the driving interface for CCD photoelectric sensors, and corresponding filtering and signal amplification circuits are designed to address the noise problem of CCD photoelectric signal injection. Finally, the fixed threshold method separates the background and image signals
in the CCD photoelectric signal, and the microcontroller is connected to the serial port of the upper computer through the MAX232 chip. The displacement measurement experiment uses the designed linear array CCD photoelectric displacement sensor. The results show that the road deflection basin
detection method by the linear array CCD photoelectric displacement sensor fully meets the actual detection requirements and can obtain dynamic deformation information of the tested road surface. It is helpful for a detailed understanding of the changes in the deflection basin of the road
surface under load.
Data Acquisition and Performance Analysis of Image-Based Photonic Encoder Using Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)
Authors: Xu Li , Zheng Dechun
Published: February 2024

With the continuous advancement of numerical control technology, the requirements for the position detection resolution, precision, and size of photoelectric encoders in computer numerical control machine tools are increasingly stringent. In the pursuit of high resolution and precision,
this work investigates the principles of electronic subdivision and embedded hardware. It designs a high-precision image-based photonic encoder using a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). This photonic encoder captures the pattern of a rotating code disk using a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor
(CMOS) image sensor. The encoder’s core is the XC6SLX25T chip from the Spartan-6 series, with peripheral circuits including only A/D sampling and low-pass signal processing circuits. The FPGA module handles the digital signal reception, waveform conversion, quadrature frequency coarse
count calculation, fine count subdivision calculation, and final position calculation of the encoder. In experiments, the output signal of the photonic encoder contains many impurities. After processing by the signal processing module, the A and B phase signals are not affected by previous
interference, with a phase difference of 90°, meeting the requirements for subsequent signal processing modules. After fine count subdivision processing, the waveform graph significantly increases within one cycle, and after quadrupling the frequency, 30 subdivisions are performed within
each cycle. Noise is introduced into graphic positioning or graphics are positioned under different noise conditions. Experimental results show that utilizing an improved centroid algorithm helps further suppress noise and enhance measurement accuracy in the design of image-based photonic
encoders.
2D SnO2/g-C3N4 Heterojunctional Nanocomposite-Based Acetone Sensor
Authors: Li Nianci , Yu Li , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2024

In this study, a novel 2D SnO2/g-C3N4 nanosheet heterojunction was successfully synthesized utilizing a facile hydrothermal method coupled with a subsequent pyrolysis process. Comprehensive characterization employing X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron
spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) confirmed the formation of nanocomposites featuring lamellar g-C3N4 nanosheets enveloping SnO2 nanoparticles. The SnO2/g-C3N4 heterojunctional
composite, with a g-C3N4 weight of 55.66%, exhibited a remarkable maximum gas-sensing response of 8.81 towards 20 ppm acetone at the optimized operating temperature of 280 °C. This response was approximately 3.1 times higher than that observed for pure SnO2
nanoparticles. The heightened sensing performance is attributed to the homogeneous dispersion of SnO2 nanoparticles on lamellar g-C3N4 nanosheets and the formation of an n-n heterojunction. The insights gained from this investigation offer valuable implications
for the design and fabrication of metal oxide-based heterojunctional nano/microstructures, providing enhanced capabilities for gas sensing applications.
Enhancement of Optical Coherence Tomography for Early Diagnostics Through Ag-Decorated ZnO Quantum Dots-Induced Motion Analysis
Authors: Zheng Zheng , Xia Qiudong
Published: February 2024

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) stands as a pivotal imaging modality in medical diagnostics, providing intricate insights into microstructural alterations within biological tissues. This research delves into the augmentative impact of nanostructures on OCT, with a specific emphasis
on their potential applications in early diagnostic scenarios. The article introduces a novel composite material, Silver-Zinc Oxide (Ag-ZnO) nano-structures, synthesized through the amalgamation of zinc oxide (ZnO) quantum dots and silver (Ag) particles. The study scrutinizes the enhancement
effect of these nanostructures on the depth imaging capability and diagnostic precision of OCT. Employing the finite difference time domain method, the research simulates and calculates the extinction spectrum enhancement effect of Ag-ZnO quantum dots in OCT. Comparative analyses are conducted
to evaluate the effectiveness and diagnostic accuracy of OCT imaging when enhanced with Ag-ZnO quantum dots against Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technology. The outcomes manifest a noteworthy improvement in diagnostic accuracy with the integration of Ag-ZnO quantum dots in OCT, underscoring
their efficacy in heightening imaging depth and diagnostic precision for early diagnostic applications. This study not only accentuates the pivotal role played by quantum dots in amplifying the capabilities of OCT but also paves the way for the advancement of sophisticated diagnostic tools
within the realm of medical imaging.
Application of High-Speed Optical Measurement Based on Nanoscale Photoelectric Sensing Technology in the Optimization of Football Shooting Mechanics
Authors: Yang XianBiao
Published: February 2024

This study introduces a novel application of nanoscale photoelectric sensing technology in the realm of football shooting mechanics, marking a significant advancement in the field of dynamic mechanical analysis. Traditional sensor analysis tools frequently struggle with attaining the
necessary spatial and temporal resolution to detect subtle variations in dynamic mechanical actions, often leading to inaccuracies in complex movement analyses. Our research employs nanoscale photoelectric sensors to overcome these limitations, offering a ground breaking method for understanding
and enhancing dynamic mechanical properties. These sensors detect minute changes in light signals correlated with mechanical movements, accurately depicting position, velocity, and acceleration through light intensity, wavelength, and phase data. To ensure the utmost data quality, the collected
optical signal data undergoes extensive preprocessing, including median filtering. By implementing a three-dimensional (3D) coordinate system specifically designed for the mechanical system under study, this approach achieves a remarkable average root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.002, emphasizing
the technology’s precision in measuring and optimizing dynamic mechanical processes. This research highlights the broad applicability of nanoscale photoelectric sensing technology in fields requiring high-precision mechanical analysis.
Extension Effect of Poly(Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid)-Polyethylene Glycol Encapsulated Bupivacaine on Postoperative Neuroblockade in Cardiothoracic Surgery
Authors: Zhang Xuhui , Hu Wenjun , Wang Jinghua , Wang Xinlei , Wang Li , Fang Yong
Published: February 2024

This research was aimed to evaluate extension effect of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-polyethylene glycol (PLGA/PEG) thermosensitive hydrogel-encapsulated bupivacaine (BUP) on neuroblockade in cardiothoracic surgery and explore the potential adoption of this thermosensitive hydrogel
as a drug carrier for postoperative neuroblockade. An animal experimental design was adopted. First, PLGA/PEG thermosensitive hydrogel was prepared and BUP was encapsulated as the drug carrier and evaluated. Then, 40 rats were selected for thoracic surgery and randomly rolled into experimental
group (injection of hydrogel in the cardiothoracic region for neuroblockade after cardiothoracic surgery) and control group (conventional BUP injection). The neuroblockade effects (maximum possible effect (MPE), sensory and motor blockade duration) in the two groups of rats were compared and
analyzed. The Results showed that gel-microsphere (Gel-MS) composite drug delivery system was successfully prepared, which exhibited a complete 3D porous structure and favorable encapsulation effect for BUP. Rheological testing showed favorable hardness (G′) and viscosity (G″)
for Gel-MS/BUP (GMB). The experimental group exhibited a notably prolonged period of 100% MPE with a slower rate of decline versus controls. Sensory blockade and motor blockade durations in the experimental group rats were (22.4±3.8) h and (22.7±3.5) h, respectively, both markedly
longer than those in the control group rats (P <0.05). In Conclusion, Gel/MS-BUP demonstrated a remarkable extension effect on neuroblockade in cardiothoracic surgery, indicating its potential adoption value in prolonging anesthesia duration.
Detection of Cysteine Using Graphene Quantum Dots/Titanium Dioxide Nanotube-Based Biosensor
Authors: Zhang Daichun , Li Jun , Zheng Jiaping
Published: February 2024

The objective of this research was to analyze the diagnostic value of a graphene quantum dots (GQDs)-titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanotube-based biosensor for L-cysteine (Cys). TiO2 nanotubes were prepared using anodic oxidation, GQDs were synthesized using thermal
decomposition of citric acid, and TiO2-GQDs composite materials were fabricated using electrophoresis. A biosensor based on TiO2-GQDs was constructed, and the stability and photocatalytic efficiency of the TiO2-GQDs material were analyzed using X-ray diffraction
(XRD) and a dual-beam ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer (UVS). Cys detection was performed using the TiO2-GQDs biosensor, and the sensitivity, pH, time response, and selectivity of TiO2-GQDs towards Cys were analyzed using a fluorescence spectrophotometer (FS). The
results revealed that TiO2 nanotubes with optimal diameter and length were obtained at an oxidation voltage of 80 V and oxidation time of 2 hours, with a greatly increased specific surface area (SSA) compared to those at 40 V and 50 V (P <0.05). Under constant oxidation
voltage, longer oxidation time resulted in longer nanotube length. The microstructure of GQDs was clear, and the diffraction peaks and photocatalytic efficiency of GQDs in TiO2-GQDs increased with increasing GQDs content. The fluorescence quenching intensity (FQI) of TiO2-GQDs
solution increased with increasing Cys concentration. After the addition of Cys, the FQI of TiO2-GQDs solution was much higher than that of 19 other amino acids (AAs) (P <0.05). However, difference in the F0−F value between Cys and interference
AAs in TiO2-GQDs solution was not great (P >0.05). In conclusion, TiO2-GQDs material exhibited good stability and photocatalytic efficiency. The biosensor based on TiO2-GQDs demonstrated high sensitivity and selectivity towards high-concentration
Cys solutions, showing promising applications in biomedicine.
Research on the Damage Mechanics Model of Asphalt Pavement Based on Asphalt Pavement Potential Damage Index
Authors: Wang Xuelian , Zhang Ziwen , Li Xiaojun , Yuan Gaoang
Published: February 2024

In recent years, due to the increasing traffic volume and the serious deterioration of overloading, the heavy vehicle load has emerged, leading to the more and more common early damage of asphalt pavement, and overloading has become one of the important factors endangering the pavement.
The traditional method is to strengthen the road, but as the base course and asphalt pavement thickness are both improved, TOP-DOWN fissures and ruts on the asphalt pavement surface have emerged as the most prevalent form of asphalt pavement damage. However, a final verdict on a single mechanical
explanation for the many occurrences of asphalt pavement deterioration has not yet been reached. Material yielding and failure under varying stress conditions are the focus of strength theory, which seeks to provide norms and standards for their computation. Mohr Coulomb and Drucker Prager
strength theories are two of the most well-established, thoroughly investigated, and widely used strength theories in geological and geotechnical engineering. In this research, the damage form and stress condition of asphalt pavement are analyzed and predicted using M-C and D-P criteria, and
a new pavement structure damage control index, the Asphalt pavement potential damage index with fatigue loading (APPDI), is established. Preliminary calculations reveal that APPDI may become a unified mechanical assessment index of asphalt pavement structural damage, since it can explain both
flexural tensile damage at the base of the layer and rutting and cracking at the surface.
Vibration Characteristics of Liquid-Filled Pipes Under Different Levels of Submergence
Authors: Wang Cheng , Yan Jin , Zhang Dapeng , Li Jiangfeng , Luo Yangyang
Published: February 2024

Based on the acousto-solid coupling theory, the vibroacoustic radiation characteristics of the liquid-filled pipeline are studied under different submergence depths, and the changes of sound pressure level of pipeline are analyzed under different submergence depths of the flow transfer
pipeline. The vibration characteristics of liquid-filled pipes with different submergence degrees were numerically analyzed from the pressure-acoustic domain and the solid mechanics domain, and the two-way coupled data exchange was realized by using acoustic-structural boundary multi-physical
field function. The sound pressure level variation curves of the liquid-filled pipes were calculated for different submergence depths under the simultaneous action of internal and external flow fields, respectively. The results show that when the pipe is submerged in the lower and middle positions
of the center of the circle, the sound pressure fluctuations of the pipe radiating outward are more consistent, and when submerged in the upper half, the sound pressure concentration phenomenon occurs in the lower and middle regions outside the pipe. When the free boundary outside the pipe
is subjected to the boundary load, the pipe submerged in the lower position of the center of the circle is most obviously affected by the load. The tube submerged in the upper and lower positions of the center of the tube will produce two-way, increasing the form of sound pressure propagation
in the tube towards the upper and lower sides, these findings can provide a certain reference for the study of pipe vibroacoustics. Therefore, research on the acoustic radiation properties of liquid-filled pipelines under various submergence depths is of great theoretical significance and
engineering application value. This information can be applied widely in the fields of anti-fatigue design, fatigue damage analysis, and safety assessment of oil and gas pipeline structures, providing strong scientific support to ensure their safe and reliable service.
Utilizing Proteomic Analysis to Assess the Biocompatibility and Growth Behavior of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Colorectal Cancer Cells on Polylactic Acid/Polyglycolic Acid Composite Scaffold
Authors: Yang Ke , Chen Zheng , Xu Dayong , Peng Fang
Published: February 2024

This research aimed to analyze the biocompatibility and growth behavior of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated colorectal cancer (CRC) cells on a polylactic acid/polyglycolic acid (PLA-PCL) composite nanofiber scaffold (CNS) using proteomic analysis. The PLA-PCL CNS was prepared
using a gel extraction phase separation (GEPS) method in a dioxane/ethanol solvent system, and the effects of gel temperature, PLA-PCL mass ratio (MR), solvent-to-polymer MR on the structure and properties of the PLA-PCL CNS were analyzed. Subsequently, Lappaol F (LAF) was incorporated into
the PLA-PCL CNS using electrospinning (ES) technology, and tissue specimens were obtained from HIV-associated CRC patients to investigate the impacts of LAF-PLA-PCL CNS on the growth behavior of HIV-associated CRC cells through mass spectrometry and bioinformatics analysis. Field emission
scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) revealed that the CNS could be obtained at gel temperatures between −20 °C and −10 °C, PLA-to-PCL MRs of 1:1, 3:2, 7:3, and ethanol content of 5%–15%. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed
that the PLA-to-PCL MR of 70:30 exhibited compatibility and crystallinity of the PLA-PCL CNS, while the porosity increased with an increase in PCL content. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis indicated a good biological activity of the PLA-PCL CNS. The relative cell proliferation
(RCP) and cytotoxicity grades exhibited no marked differences (P >0.05) between the cancer cells cultured with DMEM and those with PLA-PCL scaffold extract over time. Proteomic analysis identified 127 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in HIV-associated CRC cells co-cultured
with LAF-PLA-PCL CNS, and Gene Ontology (GO) protein and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis (KEGG analysis) revealed that the LAF-PLA-PCL NCS could affect the cell cycle (CC) of HIV-associated CRC cells. In conclusion, the PLA-PCL NCS exhibited good compatibility, crystallinity, and biological
activity, while the LAF-PLA-PCL NCS showed the potential to inhibit cell proliferation by affecting the CC.
Juror Perceptions of Bystander and Victim Intoxication by Different Substances
Authors: Dilevski Natali , Cullen Hayley J. , van Golde Celine , Flowe Heather D. , Paterson Helen M. , Takarangi Melanie K. T. , Monds Lauren A.
Published: February 2024

This study examined the effects of bystander or victim intoxication during a crime on juror perceptions and decision-making. Mock jurors ( N = 261) read testimony from a bystander or victim to an assault, who mentioned that they had consumed alcohol, cannabis, amphetamines, or no substances prior to the crime. Participants delivered a verdict, rated the defendant’s guilt, and rated the bystander/victim on their honesty, credibility, and cognitive competence. Witness intoxication and witness role did not influence defendant guilt. However, participants judged any witness intoxicated by amphetamines as less credible and cognitively competent than a sober witness. Furthermore, victims were judged to have lower credibility, cognitive competence, and honesty than bystanders. These findings suggest that jurors’ decision-making about defendant guilt might not be influenced by witness intoxication or witness type. A witness’ testimony, however, might be evaluated as less credible when delivered by a victim or an amphetamine-intoxicated witness.
Entrepreneurship as collective action: The next frontier
Authors: Ben-Hafaïedh Cyrine , Champenois Claire , Cooney Thomas M , Schjoedt Leon
Published: February 2024

Analyses of collective action in entrepreneurship are lacking in the extant literature. Despite entrepreneurship research progressively moving away from a focus on the lone heroic entrepreneur, scholars have yet to absorb the full potential of entrepreneurship as collective action. Also missing is a collective stance on key entrepreneurship concepts such as opportunity discovery or construction and entrepreneurial agency. Accordingly, this article reviews and critiques five articles that constitute this Special Issue seeking to establish ‘entrepreneurship as collective action’ as the next frontier of entrepreneurship theory development. The articles in this Special Issue each investigate a specific instance of collective action in entrepreneurship. This article contributes to extant scholarship by highlighting transversal themes and offering further research avenues.
Farmers’ information sharing for climate change adaptation in Mozambique
Authors: Zorrilla-Miras Pedro , Lisboa Sá N. , López-Gunn Elena , Giordano Raffaele
Published: February 2024

Small scale African farmers are facing increasing challenges due to climate change. One of the most important strategies identified in the literature to improve farmers’ resilience is the enhancement of information sharing between all the actors involved, as a key step of the capacity building process. To provide insights into this objective, we analyse Mozambique farmers’ perception of climate change, agricultural adaptation options, the information sources most used currently by farmers, and which are preferred to be strengthened in the future. We also analyse the main barriers for improving the exchange of information, as well as geographical and gender differences. We collected quantitative and qualitative data from a survey to 100 farmers (52 women and 48 men) and 9 focus groups with farmers, plus 9 interviews to local and provincial government officials and NGOs technicians. We studied four case study areas that showed different vulnerability to climate change and socioeconomic characteristics: two case studies close to the capital city of Mozambique (Maputo) and two case studies far away from the capital city. With the data from the survey we performed descriptive and comparative statistics and a generalized linear model regression analysis. With the data from the focus groups we built Fuzzy cognitive maps that were used for assessing the impacts of information enhancement policies on the communities’ adaptation capacity. We demonstrate the need for adopting a contextualized approach for defining the most suitable climate change adaptation option in each study area. Oral communications and extension agents are the key short term resources to improve the exchange of information with small scale farmers, with smartphones showing a high potential only in the long future, due to the existing barriers to their massive use (high prices for buying and using them, low quality of mobile network, high proportion of illiterate farmers).
Laboratory Characterization of Additive-Modified Asphalt Concrete Mixtures
Authors: Kmetz Matthew , Timm David , Rodezno Carolina , Tran Nam , Yin Fan
Published: February 2024

There is a need for a more rapid system of evaluation and implementation for new and existing asphalt additives, especially because of the prohibitive cost of full-scale performance evaluations. To help to meet this need, the Additive Group (AG) experiment at the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) was developed and began in 2021. A comprehensive laboratory evaluation of six mixtures, each modified with a popular additive type selected by the AG state DOT sponsors, was conducted. Simultaneously, full-scale test sections were constructed at the NCAT test track to evaluate the field performance and structure behavior of each modified mixture. Trafficking of these test sections is currently underway, and estimated to be completed in 2024, at which point an investigation linking the laboratory and field results will be done. This paper presents the completed laboratory evaluation of each AG mixture via complex dynamic modulus (E*), direct tension cyclic fatigue, and bending beam fatigue testing. The wet-process rubber modified mixture was found to have reduced E* and initial flexural stiffness, but increased fatigue resistance, relative to the styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS)-modified control mixture. The dry-process rubber-modified mixture displayed similar trends, though to a lesser degree. Conversely, the dry-process plastic-modified mixture was found to have increased E* and initial flexural stiffness, but reduced fatigue resistance, relative to the SBS-modified control mixture. The other AG mixtures—a dry-process fiber and a wet-process plastic-modified mixture—were found to display E*, initial flexural stiffness, and fatigue resistance similar to that of the SBS-modified control mixture.
Nanocomposites as sustainable smart materials: A review
Authors: Tripathy Divya B , Gupta Anjali
Published: February 2024

Sustainable nano-composites refer to the development of composite materials that incorporate nano-particles or nanofibres in a matrix of sustainable polymers. These materials offer many benefits, including enhanced mechanical and thermal properties, improved resistance to degradation, and reduced environmental impact. Sustainable nano-composites have emerged as a promising class of materials and have received noteworthy consideration in recent years because of having unique characteristics and latent for numerous industrial applications. Nano-composites are composite materials that comprise a polymer matrix reinforced with nano-sized particles. Properties of sustainable nano-composites are characterized by their enhanced mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties compared to traditional composite materials. Nano-composites have been studied for several decades, and their applications are varied, including biomedical implants, energy storage devices, and high-performance structural materials. Industrial applications of sustainable nano-composites are expanding rapidly due to their improved properties and environmental benefits. Sustainable nano-composites have a wide range of industrial applications, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, packaging, and biomedical industries. Sustainable nano-composites represent a promising area of research and development for creating high-performance materials that are both environmentally friendly and economically feasible. Sustainable nano-composites are also a promising solution to address the environmental concerns associated with conventional nano-composites. The use of these materials is expected to increase in the future as sustainability becomes an increasingly important consideration in material design and manufacturing. This article provides an overview on the sustainable nano-composites.