bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cutaneous Adverse Reactions Associated with Tattoos and Permanent Makeup Pigments
Authors: Bălăceanu-Gurău Beatrice , Apostol Eliza , Caraivan Mădălina , Ion Ana , Tatar Raluca , Mihai Mara Mădălina , Popa Liliana Gabriela , Gurău Cristian-Dorin , Orzan Olguța Anca
Published: January 2024

Tattooing is the procedure of implanting permanent pigment granules and additives into the dermal layer of the skin, serving various purposes such as decoration, medical identification, or accidental markings. There has been a significant rise in the popularity of decorative tattooing as a form of body art among both teenagers and young adults. Thus, the incidence of tattoos is increasing, with expanding applications such as permanent makeup, scar camouflage, nipple–areola, lips, and eyebrows tattooing, and utilization in oncological radiotherapy such as colon marking. However, there have been reported a broad range of adverse reactions linked to tattooing, encompassing allergic reactions, superficial and deep cutaneous infections, autoimmune disorders induced by the Koebner phenomenon, cutaneous tumors, and others. These reactions exhibit different onset times for symptoms, ranging from immediate manifestations after tattoo application to symptoms emerging several years later. Given the limited information on a tattoo’s side effects, this review aims to elucidate the clinical spectrum of cutaneous complications of tattoos in different patients. The analysis will investigate both allergic and nonallergic clinical presentations of tattoo-related side effects, microscopic findings from skin biopsies, and therapeutic outcomes. This exploration is essential to improve our understanding of tattoo-related cutaneous complications and associated differential diagnoses and highlight the significance of patient awareness regarding potential risks before getting a tattoo.
Controversial Past, Splendid Present, Unpredictable Future: A Brief Review of Alzheimer Disease History
Authors: Bermejo-Pareja Félix , del Ser Teodoro
Published: January 2024

Background: The concept of Alzheimer disease (AD)—since its histological discovery by Alzheimer to the present day—has undergone substantial modifications. Methods: We conducted a classical narrative review of this field with a bibliography selection (giving preference to Medline best match). Results: The following subjects are reviewed and discussed: Alzheimer’s discovery, Kraepelin’s creation of a new disease that was a rare condition until the 1970′s, the growing interest and investment in AD as a major killer in a society with a large elderly population in the second half of the 20th century, the consolidation of the AD clinicopathological model, and the modern AD nosology based on the dominant amyloid hypothesis among many others. In the 21st century, the development of AD biomarkers has supported a novel biological definition of AD, although the proposed therapies have failed to cure this disease. The incidence of dementia/AD has shown a decrease in affluent countries (possibly due to control of risk factors), and mixed dementia has been established as the most frequent etiology in the oldest old. Conclusions: The current concept of AD lacks unanimity. Many hypotheses attempt to explain its complex physiopathology entwined with aging, and the dominant amyloid cascade has yielded poor therapeutic results. The reduction in the incidence of dementia/AD appears promising but it should be confirmed in the future. A reevaluation of the AD concept is also necessary.
Implications from Legacy Device Environments on the Conceptional Design of Machine Learning Models in Manufacturing
Authors: Engelmann Bastian , Schmitt Anna-Maria , Theilacker Lukas , Schmitt Jan
Published: January 2024

While new production areas (greenfields) have state-of-the-art technologies for implementing digitalization, existing production areas (brownfields) and devices must first be upgraded with technologies before digitalization can be implemented. The aim of this research work is to use a case study to identify the differences in the implementation of machine learning (ML) projects in brownfields and greenfields. For this purpose, an ML application for the detection of changeover times on milling machines is implemented and analyzed in the brownfield and greenfield scenarios as well as a combined scenario. Particular attention is paid to the selection of sensors and features. It was found that the abundant availability of features in the greenfield scenario poses pitfalls when creating ML projects if the underlying sensors cannot be checked for their suitability. For the changeover detector use case, the best model quality was achieved for the combined scenario, followed by the greenfield scenario.
The Financial Market of Indices of Socioeconomic Well-Being
Authors: Mahanama Thilini V. , Shirvani Abootaleb , Rachev Svetlozar , Fabozzi Frank J.
Published: January 2024

This study discusses how financial economic theory and its quantitative tools can be applied to create socioeconomic indices and develop a financial market for the so-called “socioeconomic well-being indices”. In this study, we quantify socioeconomic well-being by assigning a dollar value to the well-being factors of selected countries; this is analogous to how the Dow 30 encapsulates the financial health of the US market. While environmental, social, and governance (ESG) financial markets address socioeconomic issues, our focus is broader, encompassing national citizens’ well-being. The dollar-denominated socioeconomic indices for each country can be viewed as financial assets that can serve as risky assets for constructing a global index, which, in turn, serves as a “market of well-being socioeconomic index”. This novel global index of well-being, paralleling the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), provides a comprehensive representation of the world’s socioeconomic status. Through advanced financial econometrics and dynamic asset pricing methodologies, we evaluate the potential for significant downturns in both the socioeconomic well-being indices of individual countries and the aggregate global index. This innovative approach allows us to engineer financial instruments akin to portfolio insurance, such as index puts, designed to hedge against these downturn risks. Our findings propose a financial market model for well-being indices, encouraging the financial industry to adopt and trade these indices as mechanisms to manage and hedge against downturn risks in well-being.
Tourism-Led Change of the City Centre
Authors: Fernandes José , Chamusca Pedro , Lois Rubén , Madureira Helena , Mattos Juliano , Pinto Jorge
Published: January 2024

In multicentric and increasingly complex urban regions, a city centre reinvents itself. In the case of Porto, tourism was essential for its “Baixa” renaissance. A relevant increase in visitors meant also a dramatic increase in real estate prices and significant land-use change. In field interviews, retailers noticed a “new life” before COVID-19 arrived, remarking on the positive role of tourism on urban rehabilitation and the economic viability of companies, and the negative effects for residents and traditional shops, directed to the common resident. In this article, we present and discuss its main effects in this exceptional area in Portugal’s second city. We also discuss tourism dependency and the challenge of sustainability in a high-density context, defending public policies oriented for a “city with tourists” that replaces the current construction of a “city of tourists”.
Metropolitan Expansion and Migrant Population: Correlation Patterns and Influencing Factors in Chengdu, China
Authors: Wang Junfeng , Zhang Shaoyao , Deng Wei , Zhou Qianli
Published: January 2024

The ongoing urban spatial transformation contributes to a more intricate and varied spatiotemporal correlation pattern between metropolitan expansion and the migrant population. In this study, the coupled coordination model (CCD) is applied to enable the quantification of the spatiotemporal correlation index of metropolitan expansion and migrant population from 2010 to 2020. Moreover, various correlation patterns are identified in this research, and the multiscale geographical weighted regression model (MGWR) is employed to examine the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the influencing factors that contribute to this correlation. The research findings reveal the following insights: (1) The built-up areas increased twofold between 2010 and 2020, with an evident tendency toward southward expansion. In addition, population migration indicates slow migration in the inner metropolitan area and accelerated migration in the outer metropolitan area. The correlation between metropolitan expansion and migrant population follows a central–peripheral layer pattern that is characterized by a low-high-low progression. (2) While the balanced development of public services has somewhat decreased the differentiation patterns observed, the adjustments made to economic growth, employment, and residential markets have intensified the differentiation of spatiotemporal correlation characteristics between the metropolitan expansion and migrant population. (3) This study demonstrates that the Chengdu metropolitan area is transitioning from a rapid development stage driven by structuralism to a human-oriented new urbanization stage. This shift is evident through the clear stage pattern and central–peripheral layer features observed. Through the scientific planning of industry and public service layouts, the promotion of integration employment, residential markets, and the facilitation of urban–rural transformation can be achieved. Implementing these strategies can elevate the standard of human-oriented urban spatial governance, achieve coordinated and balanced development between built-up and residential spaces, and advance the high-quality, sustainable, and inclusive development of metropolitan areas.
Four Dialectal Uses of the Adverb Siempre and Their Grammatical Properties
Authors: Bosque Ignacio
Published: January 2024

This article analyzes four interpretations of the adverb siempre ‘always’ that do not belong to general Spanish. The continuative and the progressive-comparative interpretations are argued to be calques of Italian, often attested in Rioplatense Spanish. In the first one, siempre is equivalent to Eng. still or ‘continue to + infinitive’, while in the second one it admits paraphrases with more and more, less and less, and the adverbs gradually and progressively. The third interpretation, in which siempre is roughly equivalent to after all, finally, and ‘end up + gerund’, will be argued to be concessive-adversative. This reading is more frequent in Mexico and Central America, but it is also attested in other American countries. The fourth reading is the attenuated interpretation, registered in part of the Andean area. In this meaning, siempre is equivalent to roughly or so so. It is argued that, with the possible exception of the last reading (whose origin is insecure), these different meanings of siempre coincide in the interpretation of this adverb as a universal quantifier, while they differ in the semantic nature of the quantified variable.
The Hepatokine Leukocyte Cell-Derived Chemotaxin-2 Is Elevated in People with Impaired Glycaemic Regulation and Augmented by Acute Exercise
Authors: Engin Buket , Willis Scott A. , Malaikah Sundus , Sargeant Jack A. , Stensel David J. , Jelleyman Charlotte , Ennequin Gaël , Aithal Guruprasad P. , Yates Thomas , King James A.
Published: January 2024

The hepatokine leukocyte cell-derived chemotaxin-2 (LECT2) promotes insulin resistance and hepatic fibrogenesis. In rodents, acute exercise suppresses circulating LECT2; however, human data are lacking. This study compared circulating LECT2 across populations and explored whether acute exercise impacts circulating LECT2. In Part A (n = 43), data were pooled from three experimental studies, regarding the following groups: healthy individuals, individuals with impaired glycaemic regulation (IGR), and individuals with type 2 diabetes and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (T2DM-MASLD). Generalised linear models assessed differences in circulating LECT2 among groups. Part B (n = 20) involved exercise (30 min, 65% peak oxygen uptake) and control (resting) trials in the healthy and IGR groups. Circulating LECT2 was measured before and at 0, 1, 2 and 3 h post-exercise. Generalised estimating equations assessed differences in LECT2 responses to the trials among groups. In Part A, circulating LECT2 levels were 28.7% and 37.3% higher in the IGR and T2DM-MASLD groups, vs. healthy individuals (p ≤ 0.038), with BMI identified as the main predictor (p = 0.008). In Part B, average circulating LECT2 levels were 6.3% higher after exercise vs. in the control (p < 0.001), with similar responses between groups (p = 0.829). In the combined cohort, circulating LECT2 levels were elevated 1–3 h after exercise vs. control (p ≤ 0.009). LECT2 is elevated in people with dysglycaemia, with BMI as a leading predictor. Contrary to previous rodent work, acute exercise augments, rather than suppresses, circulating LECT2 in humans.
Selecting Indicators to Assess the Sustainability of Urban Freight Transport Using a Multi-Criteria Analysis
Authors: Ayadi Hana , Benaissa Mounir , Hamani Nadia , Kermad Lyes
Published: January 2024

Background: Urban freight transport has recently garnered significant attention from both professionals and academics due to its pivotal role in fostering economic and social development. Despite notable progress, this sector faces challenges that hinder its long-term sustainability. Addressing these issues and ensuring the lasting sustainability of urban freight transport require a thorough assessment and monitoring process utilizing specific indicators. Methods: This paper introduces a set of indicators developed using a three-step methodology aimed at assessing the sustainability progress of urban freight transport. Initially, we present a long list of indicators drawn from the existing literature. Subsequently, we consider five essential properties: achievability, data availability, predictability, relevance, and comprehensibility. Lastly, we apply a multi-criteria analysis methodology that utilizes these properties to assess the long lists encountered during the selection process. The chosen indicators are those that do not register a value of “0” for any of the specified properties. To enhance reliability, the indicators are collaboratively identified by a minimum of two experts. Results: By carefully selecting 18 indicators based on five sustainability dimensions (economic, environmental, social/societal, political, and spatial), our approach ensures a robust evaluation framework. Conclusions: These indicators serve as valuable tools for stakeholders in comprehensively evaluating the sustainability aspects of urban freight transport.
Active Disturbance Rejection Control for Distributed Energy Resources in Microgrids
Authors: Hezzi Abir , Elbouchikhi Elhoussin , Bouzid Allal , Ben Elghali Seifeddine , Zerrougui Mohamed , Benbouzid Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Motivated by the significant efforts developed by researchers and engineers to improve the economic and technical performance of microgrids (MGs), this paper proposes an Active Disturbance Rejection Control (ADRC) for Distributed Energy Resources (DER) in microgrids. This approach is a nonlinear control that is based on a real-time compensation of different estimated disturbances. The DER operates along with the electrical grid to provide the load requirements. This load has a nonlinear and uncertain character, which presents a source of unmodeled dynamics and harmonic perturbations of the MG. The main objective of this paper is to ensure the stability and the continuity of service of the distributed generation resources by controlling the DC-AC converter. The ADRC as a robust control technique is characterized by its ability to compensate for the estimated total disturbances caused by the load variation and the external unmodeled perturbations to guarantee the high tracking performance of sinusoidal reference signals in the DER system. The ADRC technique is characterized by its nonlinear function, which provides a high robustness to the controlled system. However, in order to simplify the control structure by keeping its high reliability, this paper proposes to replace the nonlinear function with a simple error (termed linear ADRC), compares the impact of this modification on the system performances, and evaluates its operation in the presence of linear and nonlinear load variations. Simulation results are presented to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed control approach for a three-phase DER.
Technological Innovation Investment Channels of Industry–University–Research Alliance Enterprises and Non-Alliance Enterprises Based on Evolutionary Game
Authors: Tang Qixuan , Wang Chengjun , Feng Tao
Published: January 2024

According to their resource ownership and resource acquisition channels, this paper constructs an evolutionary game model of enterprises’ technological innovation investment channels considering managers’ expectations. This results in the strategy of non-alliance firms along the first channel having a significant impact on the evolutionary equilibrium. For non-alliance enterprises, the difference in the amount of investment in the R&D stage has the same impact on the probability of such enterprises following the first channel. The number of active managers, group capacity, the difference in managers’ expectations, and the difference in the amount of technological innovation investment in the R&D stage have significant differences in the possibility of choosing the first channel between the two types of enterprises. The research conclusions can provide valuable references for enterprises to make technological innovation decisions.
Calculation of the System Unavailability Measures of Component Importance Using the D2T2 Methodology of Fault Tree Analysis
Authors: Andrews John , Lunt Sally
Published: January 2024

A recent development in Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), known as Dynamic and Dependent Tree Theory (D2T2), accounts for dependencies between the basic events, making FTA more powerful. The method uses an integrated combination of Binary Decision Diagrams (BDDs), Stochastic Petri Nets (SPN) and Markov models. Current algorithms enable the prediction of the system failure probability and failure frequency. This paper proposes methods which extend the current capability of the D2T2 framework to calculate component importance measures. Birnbaum’s measure of importance, the Criticality measure of importance, the Risk Achievement Worth (RAW) measure of importance and the Risk Reduction Worth (RRW) measure of importance are considered. This adds a vital ability to the framework, enabling the influence that components have on system failure to be determined and the most effective means of improving system performance to be identified. The algorithms for calculating each measure of importance are described and demonstrated using a pressure vessel cooling system.
Mathematical Modeling of the Optimal Cost for the Design of Strap Combined Footings
Authors: Luévanos-Rojas Arnulfo , Santiago-Hurtado Griselda , Moreno-Landeros Victor Manuel , Olguin-Coca Francisco Javier , López-León Luis Daimir , Diaz-Gurrola Eyran Roberto
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a novel mathematical model to determine the minimum cost for the design of reinforced-concrete strap combined footings under biaxial bending, with each column using a genetic algorithm. The pressure is assumed to be linearly distributed along the contact area. This study comprises two steps: firstly, identifying the smallest ground contact area, and secondly, minimizing the cost. The methodology integrates moment, bending shear, and punching shear calculations according to the ACI standard. Some authors present a smaller area (but limited to one or two property lines) and the design considers that the thickness of the footings and beam are equal, and do not show the lower cost of a strap combined footing; generally, the beam has a greater thickness than the footings and therefore the footings would have an unnecessary thickness that would generate a higher cost. A numerical example is shown to find the lowest cost for the design of strap combined footings considering four different conditions such as square footings and other limitation at the ends of the footings. The minimum area does not guarantee that it is the lowest cost. The proposed model is versatile, applicable to T-shaped and rectangular combined footings, and is not restricted to specific property lines. The contributions include eliminating trial and error practices, accommodating various design conditions, and emphasizing equilibrium in the derived equations. The model is adaptable to different building codes, offering a comprehensive approach to achieving optimal design and cost considerations for strap combined footings.
An Update on the Chemical Constituents and Biological Properties of Selected Species of an Underpinned Genus of Red Algae: Chondrus
Authors: Park Seon-Joo , Sharma Anshul , Lee Hae-Jeung
Published: January 2024

Macroalgae, particularly red seaweeds, have attracted significant attention due to their economic and health benefits. Chondrus, a red algae genus, despite its economic importance, seems to be undervalued. Among all its species, Chondrus crispus has been meticulously documented for its biological properties, and little is known about other species. No comprehensive review of the biological properties of this genus has been acknowledged. Thus, this review aimed to summarize the available information on the chemical constituents and biological properties of a few selected species, including Chondrus crispus, Chondrus ocellatus, Mazzaella canaliculata, and Chondrus armatus. We compiled and discovered that the genus is offering most of the important health-promoting benefits evidenced from in vitro and in vivo studies focused on antimicrobial, immunomodulation, neuroprotection, anti-atopic, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-diabetic, cytoprotective, antioxidant, anti-coagulation, nephroprotective, anti-tumor, and anti-venom activity, which speaks about the potential of this genus. Data on clinical studies are limited. Further, around 105 chemical constituents have been reported from Chondrus spp. Given its significance, further investigation is warranted, in the form of meticulously planned cell, animal, and clinical studies that concentrate on novel health-enhancing endeavors, in order to unveil the full potential of this genus. The review also outlines challenges and future directions.
Exploring Biomarkers in Breast Cancer: Hallmarks of Diagnosis, Treatment, and Follow-Up in Clinical Practice
Authors: Lopez-Gonzalez Laura , Sanchez Cendra Alicia , Sanchez Cendra Cristina , Roberts Cervantes Eduardo David , Espinosa Javier Cassinello , Pekarek Tatiana , Fraile-Martinez Oscar , García-Montero Cielo , Rodriguez-Slocker Ana María , Jiménez-Álvarez Laura , Guijarro Luis G. , Aguado-Henche Soledad , Monserrat Jorge , Alvarez-Mon Melchor , Pekarek Leonel , Ortega Miguel A. , Diaz-Pedrero Raul
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer is a prevalent malignancy in the present day, particularly affecting women as one of the most common forms of cancer. A significant portion of patients initially present with localized disease, for which curative treatments are pursued. Conversely, another substantial segment is diagnosed with metastatic disease, which has a worse prognosis. Recent years have witnessed a profound transformation in the prognosis for this latter group, primarily due to the discovery of various biomarkers and the emergence of targeted therapies. These biomarkers, encompassing serological, histological, and genetic indicators, have demonstrated their value across multiple aspects of breast cancer management. They play crucial roles in initial diagnosis, aiding in the detection of relapses during follow-up, guiding the application of targeted treatments, and offering valuable insights for prognostic stratification, especially for highly aggressive tumor types. Molecular markers have now become the keystone of metastatic breast cancer diagnosis, given the diverse array of chemotherapy options and treatment modalities available. These markers signify a transformative shift in the arsenal of therapeutic options against breast cancer. Their diagnostic precision enables the categorization of tumors with elevated risks of recurrence, increased aggressiveness, and heightened mortality. Furthermore, the existence of therapies tailored to target specific molecular anomalies triggers a cascade of changes in tumor behavior. Therefore, the primary objective of this article is to offer a comprehensive review of the clinical, diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic utility of the principal biomarkers currently in use, as well as of their clinical impact on metastatic breast cancer. In doing so, our goal is to contribute to a more profound comprehension of this complex disease and, ultimately, to enhance patient outcomes through more precise and effective treatment strategies.
Autoimmune Implications in a Patient with Graves’ Hyperthyroidism, Pre-eclampsia with Severe Features, and Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Lin Benjamin , Robinson Lauren , Soliman Basem , Gulizia Jill , Usala Stephen
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: Graves’ disease (GD) and primary aldosteronism (PA) are two pathologies that can cause significant morbidity and mortality. GD is mediated by autoantibodies, and recent studies have shown autoantibody involvement in the pathophysiology behind both PA and pre-eclampsia. The coexistence of GD and PA, however, is reportedly rare. This report describes a unique case of Graves’ hyperthyroidism and concomitant PA in a patient with a history of pre-eclampsia with severe features. Case Presentation: The patient presented at 17 weeks pregnancy with mild hyperthyroidism, negative TSH receptor antibodies, and a low level of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI). Her TSH became detectable with normal thyroid hormone levels, and therefore, no anti-thyroid medication was administered. At 34 weeks she developed pre-eclampsia with severe features, and a healthy child was delivered; her TSH returned to normal. Seven months after delivery, she presented emergently with severe hyperthyroidism, hypertensive crisis, and a serum potassium of 2.5 mmol/L. Her hypertension was uncontrolled on multiple anti-hypertensives. Both TSI and TSH receptor antibodies were negative. The aldosterone(ng/dL)/renin(ng/mL/h ratio was (13/0.06) = 216.7, and abdominal CT imaging demonstrated normal adrenal glands; thus, a diagnosis of PA was made. Her blood pressure was subsequently controlled with only spironolactone at 50 mg 2xday. Methimazole was started but discontinued because of an allergic reaction. Consequently, a thyroidectomy was performed, and pathology revealed Graves’ disease. The patient remained well on levothyroxine at 125 mcg/day and spironolactone at 50 mg 2xday three months after the thyroidectomy. Conclusions: This patient manifested severe GD with antibodies undetectable by conventional TSI and TSH receptor assays and accelerated hypertension from PA simultaneously. These conditions were successfully treated separately by spironolactone and thyroidectomy. Autoimmune PA was considered likely given the clinical picture. The diagnosis of PA should be considered in hypertension with GD.
Does Early Mobilization Following Resection of Spinal Intra-Dural Pathology Increase the Risk of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks?—A Dual-Center Comparative Effectiveness Research
Authors: Schwake Michael , Krahwinkel Sophia , Gallus Marco , Schipmann Stephanie , Maragno Emanuele , Neuschmelting Volker , Perrech Moritz , Müther Michael , Lenschow Moritz
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: Prolonged bed rest after the resection of spinal intradural tumors is postulated to mitigate the development of cerebrospinal fluid leaks (CSFLs), which is one of the feared postoperative complications. Nonetheless, the empirical evidence supporting this conjecture remains limited and requires further investigation. The goal of the study was to investigate whether prolonged bed rest lowers the risk of CSFL after the resection of spinal intradural tumors. The primary outcome was the rate of CSFL in each cohort. Materials and Methods: To validate this hypothesis, we conducted a comparative effectiveness research (CER) study at two distinct academic neurosurgical centers, wherein diverse postoperative treatment protocols were employed. Specifically, one center adopted a prolonged bed rest regimen lasting for three days, while the other implemented early postoperative mobilization. For statistical analysis, case–control matching was performed. Results: Out of an overall 451 cases, we matched 101 patients from each center. We analyzed clinical records and images from each case. In the bed rest center, two patients developed a CSFL (n = 2, 1.98%) compared to four patients (n = 4, 3.96%) in the early mobilization center (p = 0.683). Accordingly, CSFL development was not associated with early mobilization (OR 2.041, 95% CI 0.365–11.403; p = 0.416). Univariate and multivariate analysis identified expansion duraplasty as an independent risk factor for CSFL (OR 60.33, 95% CI: 0.015–0.447; p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this CER, we demonstrate that early mobilization following the resection of spinal intradural tumors does not confer an increased risk of the development of CSFL.
Improved Anti-Saturation Performance of Fe-Si-Al Soft Magnetic Powder Core via Adjusting the Alloy Composition
Authors: Zhang Bowei , Zou Zhongqiu , Zhang Xuebin , Han Yu , Liu Wei , Su Hailin
Published: January 2024

Ball-milled Fe-Si-Al soft magnetic powder cores with the particle compositions away from the classical Sendust point were prepared in this work. The influences of alloy composition on the metallographic structure, density, hardness, and resistivity of Fe-Si-Al alloy, as well as the frequency-dependent permeability, loss, and the anti-saturation performance of Fe-Si-Al powder cores, were investigated systematically. It was found that the hardness of Fe-Si-Al alloy increases with the Si mass ratio and the saturation magnetization (Ms) increases with the Fe mass ratio. The alloy hardness affects the particle size after the ball-milling process and, thus, influences the porosity of the powder core. Together with adjusting the demagnetization field by controlling the particle size and the core’s porosity, changing the alloy composition to drive K and λ deviating from zero can effectively improve the anti-saturation performance of Fe-Si-Al powder cores at the expense of hysteresis loss, to some extent. In this work, good comprehensive magnetic properties were obtained in the Fe85.5-Si12-Al2.5 powder core. Its effective permeability percentage at 100 Oe and Ms were 59.12% and 132.23 emu/g, respectively, which are higher than those of the classical Sendust core. This work provides a feasible idea for optimizing the overall performance of the high-power magnetic device.
COVID-19 Epidemic Process and Evolution of SARS-CoV-2 Genetic Variants in the Russian Federation
Authors: Akimkin Vasiliy , Semenenko Tatiana A. , Ugleva Svetlana V. , Dubodelov Dmitry V. , Khafizov Kamil
Published: January 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic, etiologically related to a new coronavirus, has had a catastrophic impact on the demographic situation on a global scale. The aim of this study was to analyze the manifestations of the COVID-19 epidemic process, the dynamics of circulation, and the rate of the spread of new variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the Russian Federation. Retrospective epidemiological analysis of COVID-19 incidence from March 2020 to fall 2023 and molecular genetic monitoring of virus variability using next-generation sequencing technologies and bioinformatics methods were performed. Two phases of the pandemic, differing in the effectiveness of anti-epidemic measures and the evolution of the biological properties of the pathogen, were identified. Regularities of SARS-CoV-2 spread were determined, and risk territories (megacities), risk groups, and factors influencing the development of the epidemic process were identified. It was found that with each subsequent cycle of disease incidence rise, the pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 decreased against the background of the increasing infectiousness of SARS-CoV-2. Data on the mutational variability of the new coronavirus were obtained using the Russian platform of viral genomic information aggregation (VGARus) deployed at the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology. Monitoring the circulation of SARS-CoV-2 variants in Russia revealed the dominance of Delta and Omicron variants at different stages of the pandemic. Data from molecular genetic studies are an essential component of epidemiologic surveillance for making management decisions to prevent the further spread of SARS-CoV-2 and allow for prompt adaptation to pandemic control tactics.
Characterization of Aeromonas Isolates from Ornamental Fish: Species, Virulence Genes, and Antimicrobial Susceptibility
Authors: de Oliveira Carolina H. , Moreno Luisa Z. , Cardoso Pedro H. M. , Silva Ana Paula S. , Gomes Vasco T. M. , Barbosa Mikaela R. F. , Balian Simone C. , Moreno Andrea M.
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to characterize 300 Aeromonas spp. strains isolated from 123 ornamental fish of 32 different species presenting with septicemia, skin lesions, and/or eye lesions. Within the 300 strains, 53.0% were identified as A. veronii, 41.3% as A. hydrophila, and 5.7% as A. caviae. Among the six virulence genes investigated, the most frequent were act (90.3%) and aer (79.3%). More than 50% of A. hydrophila strains were positive for all the studied genes. A total of 30 virulence profiles were identified, with the five main profiles identified comprising 75% of strains. Only five strains were negative for all genes and were identified as A. caviae and A. veronii. The antimicrobial susceptibility profile was performed for 234 strains, with sulfonamides presenting more than 50% of the resistance rates. Susceptibility was observed mainly for cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, chloramphenicol and piperacillin-tazobactam. Multidrug resistance was detected in 82.5% of the studied strains, including A. caviae with 100% multidrug resistance, and A. hydrophila with 90.9% multidrug resistance. The SE-AFLP analysis resulted in 66 genotypes of A. hydrophila, 118 genotypes of A. veronii, and 14 genotypes of A. caviae, demonstrating the greater heterogeneity of A. veronii and A. caviae. However, no direct correlation was observed between the genotypes and the strains’ origins or virulence and resistance profiles.
Redefining Peptide 14D: Substitutional Analysis for Accelerated TB Diagnosis and Enhanced Activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Hilpert Kai , Munshi Tulika , López-Pérez Paula M. , Sequeira-Garcia Joana , Bull Tim J.
Published: January 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis remains a predominant cause of mortality, especially in low- and middle-income nations. Recently, antimicrobial peptides have been discovered that at low concentrations could stimulate the growth of M. tuberculosis (hormetic response). In this study, such a peptide was used to investigate the effects on the time to positivity (TTP). A systematic substitution analysis of peptide 14D was synthesized using Spot synthesis technology, resulting in 171 novel peptides. Our findings revealed a spectrum of interactions, with some peptides accelerating M. tuberculosis growth, potentially aiding in faster diagnostics, while others exhibited inhibitory effects. Notably, peptide NH2-wkivfiwrr-CONH2 significantly reduced the TTP by 25 h compared to the wild-type peptide 14D, highlighting its potential in improving TB diagnostics by culture. Several peptides demonstrated potent antimycobacterial activity, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 20 µg/mL against H37Rv and a multidrug-resistant M. tuberculosis strain. Additionally, for two peptides, a strongly diminished formation of cord-like structures was observed, which is indicative of reduced virulence and transmission potential. This study underscores the multifaceted roles of antimicrobial peptides in TB management, from enhancing diagnostic efficiency to offering therapeutic avenues against M. tuberculosis.
Evaluation of the Feasibility of In Vitro Metabolic Interruption of Trimethylamine with Resveratrol Butyrate Esters and Its Purified Monomers
Authors: Huang Ping-Hsiu , Chen De-Quan , Chen Yu-Wei , Shih Ming-Kuei , Lee Bao-Hong , Tain You-Lin , Hsieh Chang-Wei , Hou Chih-Yao
Published: January 2024

Resveratrol (RSV), obtained from dietary sources, has been shown to reduce trimethylamine oxide (TMAO) levels in humans, and much research indicates that TMAO is recognized as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of RSV and RSV-butyrate esters (RBE) on the proliferation of co-cultured bacteria and HepG2 cell lines, respectively, and also investigated the changes in trimethylamine (TMA) and TMOA content in the medium and flavin-containing monooxygenase-3 (FMO3) gene expression. This study revealed that 50 µg/mL of RBE could increase the population percentage of Bifidobacterium longum at a rate of 53%, while the rate was 48% for Clostridium asparagiforme. In contrast, co-cultivation of the two bacterial strains effectively reduced TMA levels from 561 ppm to 449 ppm. In addition, regarding TMA-induced HepG2 cell lines, treatment with 50 μM each of RBE, 3,4′-di-O-butanoylresveratrol (ED2), and 3-O-butanoylresveratrol (ED4) significantly reduced FMO3 gene expression from 2.13 to 0.40–1.40, which would also contribute to the reduction of TMAO content. This study demonstrated the potential of RBE, ED2, and ED4 for regulating TMA metabolism in microbial co-cultures and cell line cultures, which also suggests that the resveratrol derivative might be a daily dietary supplement that will be beneficial for health promotion in the future.
The Development of an Extraction Method for Simultaneously Analyzing Fatty Acids in Macroalgae Using SPE with Derivatization for LC–MS/MS
Authors: Yum Taewoo , Kim Eun-Yong , Kim Yeongeun , Choi Sukyoung , Paeng Ki-Jung
Published: January 2024

Fatty acid analysis is an essential step in evaluating the potential of macroalgae for biodiesel production. An extraction method was developed to simultaneously analyze up to five types of biodiesel-fuel-related fatty acids (myristic acid, palmitic acid, cis-palmitvaccenic acid, stearic acid, and oleic acid) in macroalgae using liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). Lypophilization and solid-phase extraction (SPE) techniques were applied to improve the extraction efficiency and effectively purify samples. The optimal conditions for SPE were set by comparing the recoveries according to the various solvent conditions for each step (loading, washing, and elution). In addition, the introduction of trimethylaminoethyl (TMAE) derivatives to the hydroxyl group of the target analyte increased the ionization efficiency and sensitivity. The derivatized samples were analyzed using the LC–MS/MS method with electrospray ionization in the positive and multiple-reaction monitoring modes. The target analytes were separated and detected within 13.5 min using a CAPCELL PAK C18 MGII S3 column. Gradient elution was performed using distilled water and acetonitrile containing 5 mM ammonium acetate. This method offers a reliable and sensitive tool for the analysis of macroalgae samples for their potential use in biodiesel production. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the simultaneous determination of fatty acids in macroalgae using LC–MS/MS with TMAE derivatization.
Six New Compounds from the Herbaceous Stems of Ephedra intermedia Schrenket C. A. Meyer and Their Lung-Protective Activity
Authors: Fan Xiling , Cao Yangang , Zeng Mengnan , Ren Yingjie , Zheng Xiaoke , Feng Weisheng
Published: January 2024

Six new compounds, (7R,8S,8′R)-balanophorone (1), (7′S,8′R,8R)-yunnanensin A (2), (3S)-thunberginol C (3), (8R,8′R)-maninsigin B (4), (7S,8R)-4,7,8-dihydroxy-9,9-dimethyl-chroman (5), and 4-hydroxy-1-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)butan-1-one (6), along with eight known compounds (7–14), were isolated from the herbaceous stems of Ephedra intermedia Schrenket C. A. Meyer. Their structures were elucidated based on their spectroscopic (MS, NMR, IR, and UV) data, and their absolute configurations were determined by comparing their calculated and experimental electronic circular dichroic (ECD) spectra. Moreover, compounds 1 and 3–6 were evaluated for their ability to protect human pulmonary epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) from injury induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro. The results showed that compound 6 exhibited a significant protective effect against LPS-induced injury in BEAS-2B, and compound 5 exhibited a slightly protective effect at the concentration of 10 μM.
Raman Spectroscopy and Cystic Fibrosis Disease: An Alternative Potential Tool for Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) Modulator Response Differentiation—A Pilot Study Based on Serum Samples
Authors: Acri Giuseppe , Testagrossa Barbara , Lucanto Maria Cristina , Cristadoro Simona , Pellegrino Salvatore , Ruello Elisa , Costa Stefano
Published: January 2024

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that alters chloride transport in mucous membranes. Recent studies have demonstrated that treatment with modulators of the chloride channel reduces inflammatory markers, restoring, among others, the imbalance of lipids. In this study, we analyzed the serum samples of treated and non-treated patients with modulators with Raman spectroscopy. Nineteen (eight treated an eleven non-treated) patients were considered. The main difference between the two groups appeared in the 3020–2800 cm−1 range. A Voigt deconvolution fit was performed, and nine sub-bands were identified. To distinguish between treated and non-treated patients, the area ratio between the CH3 and CH2 vibration modes was calculated for each patient. The results were validated using statistical analyses. In particular, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and Youden index (Y) were calculated (Area Under Curve (AUC): 0.977; Y: 3.30). An ROC curve represents the performance of the classification, illustrating the diagnostic ability of Raman spectroscopy. It was demonstrated that Raman spectroscopy is able to highlight peculiar differences between elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI)-treated and non-treated patients, in relation with lipids biomarkers.
Density Functional Theory-Based Approaches to Improving Hydrogen Storage in Graphene-Based Materials
Authors: Cruz-Martínez Heriberto , García-Hilerio Brenda , Montejo-Alvaro Fernando , Gazga-Villalobos Amado , Rojas-Chávez Hugo , Sánchez-Rodríguez Elvia P.
Published: January 2024

Various technologies have been developed for the safe and efficient storage of hydrogen. Hydrogen storage in its solid form is an attractive option to overcome challenges such as storage and cost. Specifically, hydrogen storage in carbon-based structures is a good solution. To date, numerous theoretical studies have explored hydrogen storage in different carbon structures. Consequently, in this review, density functional theory (DFT) studies on hydrogen storage in graphene-based structures are examined in detail. Different modifications of graphene structures to improve their hydrogen storage properties are comprehensively reviewed. To date, various modified graphene structures, such as decorated graphene, doped graphene, graphene with vacancies, graphene with vacancies-doping, as well as decorated-doped graphene, have been explored to modify the reactivity of pristine graphene. Most of these modified graphene structures are good candidates for hydrogen storage. The DFT-based theoretical studies analyzed in this review should motivate experimental groups to experimentally validate the theoretical predictions as many modified graphene systems are shown to be good candidates for hydrogen storage.
Internal Resistor Effect of Multilayer-Structured Synaptic Device for Low-Power Operation
Authors: Kim Hyejin , Han Geonhui , Cho Seojin , Woo Jiyong , Lee Daeseok
Published: January 2024

A synaptic device with a multilayer structure is proposed to reduce the operating power of neuromorphic computing systems while maintaining a high-density integration. A simple metal–insulator–metal (MIM)-structured multilayer synaptic device is developed using an 8-inch wafer-based and complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) fabrication process. The three types of MIM-structured synaptic devices are compared to assess their effects on reducing the operating power. The obtained results exhibited low-power operation owing to the inserted layers acting as an internal resistor. The modulated operational conductance level and simple MIM structure demonstrate the feasibility of implementing both low-power operation and high-density integration in multilayer synaptic devices.
Degree of Polarization of Cathodoluminescence from a (100) GaAs Substrate with SiN Stripes
Authors: Cassidy Daniel T. , Pagnod-Rossiaux Philippe , Mokhtari Merwan
Published: January 2024

Notes on fits of analytic estimations, 2D finite element method (FEM), and 3D FEM simulations to measurements of the cathodoluminescence (CL) and to the degree of polarization (DOP) of the CL from the top surface of a (100) GaAs substrate with a 6.22 μm wide SiN stripe are presented. Three interesting features are found in the DOP of CL data. Presumably these features are noticeable owing to the spatial resolution of the CL measurement system. Comparisons of both strain and spatial resolutions obtained by CL and photoluminescence (PL) systems are presented. The width of the central feature in the measured DOP is less than the width of the SiN, as measured from the CL. This suggests horizontal cracks or de-laminations into each side of the SiN of about 0.7 μm. In addition, it appears that deformed regions of widths of ≈1.5 μm and adjacent to the SiN must exist to explain some of the features.
Automatic Power Optimization of a 44 Tbit/s Real-Time Transmission System over 1900 km G.654.E Fiber and Widened C+L Erbium-Doped Fiber Amplifiers Utilizing 400 Gbit/s Transponders
Authors: Zhang Anxu , Liu Yuyang , Feng Lipeng , Chen Huan , Du Yuting , Wu Jun , Lv Kai , Liu Hao , Sheng Xia , Huo Xiaoli
Published: January 2024

Power unevenness, mainly induced by stimulated Raman scattering, has been a major problem in multi-band transmission systems, especially in the upcoming field-deployed 400 Gbit/s widened C band plus L band system for backbone long-haul and ultra-long-haul scenarios. To reduce the impact of power unevenness, we propose an automatic power optimization (APO) algorithm to guarantee reliable transmission for all channels, especially the channels at short wavelengths. The simulation results show that the power unevenness of output power after 5-span transmission in the C band is up to 11 dB before APO, while after APO is applied, it is greatly improved to less than 1.6 dB. To further investigate the performance of the APO scheme, we conduct a real-time 44 Tbit/s C+L transmission system over 1900 km G.654.E fiber utilizing 400 Gbit/s transponders. The experimental results show that the power unevenness has been effectively compensated from 12 dB to 4 dB in the entire 11 THz range, making the received optical signal-to-noise ratio relatively flat (3.4 dB). Moreover, the capacity and distance product of this system is 83.6 Pbit/s·km (44 Tbit/s × 1900 km), and to the best of our knowledge, this is a record capacity and distance product in the real-time single-mode fiber transmission system.