bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The mechanism of mitochondrial autophagy regulating Clathrin‐mediated endocytosis in epilepsy
Authors: Zhou Xuejiao , Yang Yu , Tai Zhenzhen , Zhang Haiqing , Yang Juan , Luo Zhong , Xu Zucai
Published: May 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to determine whether inhibition of mitophagy affects seizures through Clathrin‐mediated endocytosis (CME).

Methods

Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) was intraperitoneally injected daily to establish a chronic PTZ‐kindled seizure. The Western blot (WB) was used to compare the differences in Parkin protein expression between the epilepsy group and the control group. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the expression of MitoTracker and LysoTracker. Transferrin‐Alexa488 (Tf‐A488) was injected into the hippocampus of mice. We evaluated the effect of 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) on epilepsy behavior through observation in PTZ‐kindled models.

Results

The methylated derivative of adenine, known as 3‐MA, has been extensively utilized in the field of autophagy research. The transferrin protein is internalized from the extracellular environment into the intracellular space via the CME pathway. Tf‐A488 uses a fluorescent marker to track CME. Western blot showed that the expression of Parkin was significantly increased in the PTZ‐kindled model (p < 0.05), while 3‐MA could reduce the expression (p < 0.05). The fluorescence uptake of MitoTracker and LysoTracker was increased in the primary cultured neurons induced by magnesium‐free extracellular fluid (p < 0.05); the fluorescence uptake of Tf‐A488 was significantly decreased in the 3‐MA group compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Following hippocampal injection of Tf‐A488, both the epilepsy group and the 3‐MA group exhibited decreased fluorescence uptake, with a more pronounced effect observed in the 3‐MA group. Inhibition of mitophagy by 3‐MA from day 3 to day 9 progressively exacerbated seizure severity and shortened latency.

Significance

It is speculated that the aggravation of seizures by 3‐MA may be related to the failure to remove damaged mitochondria in time and effectively after inhibiting mitochondrial autophagy, affecting the vesicle endocytosis function of CME and increasing the susceptibility to epilepsy.

Abnormal mitophagy was observed in a chronic pentylenetetrazol‐induced seizure model and a Mg2+‐free‐induced spontaneous recurrent epileptiform discharge model. A fluorescent transferrin marker was utilized to track clathrin‐mediated endocytosis. Using an autophagy inhibitor (3‐methyladenine) on primary cultured neurons, we discovered that inhibition of autophagy led to a reduction in fluorescent transferrin uptake, while impairing clathrin‐mediated endocytosis function mediated by mitophagy. Finally, we examined the effects of 3‐methyladenine in an animal model of seizures showing that it exacerbated seizure severity. Ultimately, this study provides insights into potential mechanisms through which mitophagy regulates clathrin‐mediated endocytosis in epilepsy.
Religious/spiritual struggles and whole person functioning among Colombian university students: Longitudinal evidence of mutual influence
Authors: Cowden Richard G. , Pargament Kenneth I. , Chen Zhuo Job , Bechara Andrea Ortega
Published: May 2024

This prospective study examined the primary, secondary and complex conceptual models of religious/spiritual struggles with 18 indicators of whole person functioning across five domains: psychological well‐being, psychological distress, social well‐being, physical well‐being and character. We used three waves of longitudinal data (Wave 1: August/September 2021, Wave 2: October/November 2021, Wave 3: February 2022) from Colombian university students (N = 2878, Mage = 20.88 ± 4.05 years). Adjusting for covariates assessed in Wave 1, our primary analysis applied the analytic templates for outcome‐wide and lagged exposure‐wide designs to estimate two sets of lagged linear regression models. Religious/spiritual struggles in Wave 2 were associated with a small‐to‐medium‐sized decline in subsequent functioning on 17/18 indicators in Wave 3, and worse functioning on 16/18 indicators in Wave 2 was associated with very small‐to‐medium‐sized increases in subsequent religious/spiritual struggles in Wave 3. The results provided evidence in favour of the complex conceptual model for 16/18 indicators of whole person functioning. Our findings extend existing evidence on the reciprocal association between religious/spiritual struggles and individual functioning to a wide range of indicators, reinforcing the need for practitioners to consider the dynamic interplay between religious/spiritual struggles and individual functioning as they work with younger populations.
Modified EBP‐bFGF targeting endogenous renal extracellular matrix protects against renal ischemia‐reperfusion injury in rats
Authors: Li Xiaoge , Shi Chunying , Zhou Runxue , Chen Xinhui , Xu Qingling , Zhao Chunyige , Ma Mengyao , Ao Xiang , Liu Ying
Published: May 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a life‐threatening disease primarily caused by renal ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury, which can result in renal failure. Currently, growth factor therapy is considered a promising and effective approach for AKI treatment. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), an angiogenic factor with potent activity, efficiently stimulates angiogenesis and facilitates regeneration of renal tissue. However, the unrestricted diffusion of bFGF restricts its clinical application in AKI treatment. Therefore, developing a novel sustained released system for bFGF could enhance its potential in treating AKI. In this study, we genetically engineered a multifunctional recombinant protein by fusing bFGF with a specific peptide (EBP). EBP‐bFGF effectively binds to the extracellular matrix in the injured kidney, enabling slow release of bFGF in AKI. Furthermore, following orthotopic injection into I/R rats' ischemic kidneys, EBP‐bFGF exhibited stable retention within the tissue. Additionally, EBP‐bFGF suppressed apoptosis of renal cells, reduced renal fibrosis, and facilitated recovery of renal function. These findings suggest that EBP‐bFGF delivery system represents a promising strategy for treating AKI.
Improving material properties of a poloxamer P407 hydrogel‐based hydroxyapatite bone substitute material by adding silica—A comparative in vivo study
Authors: Kämmerer Peer W. , Heimes Diana , Zaage Franziska , Ganz Cornelia , Frerich Bernhard , Gerber Thomas , Dau Michael
Published: May 2024

The structure and handling properties of a P407 hydrogel‐based bone substitute material (BSM) might be affected by different poloxamer P407 and silicon dioxide (SiO2) concentrations. The study aimed to compare the mechanical properties and biological parameters (bone remodeling, BSM degradation) of a hydroxyapatite: silica (HA)‐based BSM with various P407 hydrogels in vitro and in an in vivo rat model. Rheological analyses for mechanical properties were performed on one BSM with an SiO2‐enriched hydrogel (SPH25) as well on two BSMs with unaltered hydrogels in different gel concentrations (PH25 and PH30). Furthermore, the solubility of all BSMs were tested. In addition, 30 male Wistar rats underwent surgical creation of a well‐defined bone defect in the tibia. Defects were filled randomly with PH30 (n = 15) or SPH25 (n = 15). Animals were sacrificed after 12 (n = 5 each), 21 (n = 5 each), and 63 days (n = 5 each). Histological evaluation and histomorphometrical quantification of new bone formation (NB;%), residual BSM (rBSM;%), and soft tissue (ST;%) was conducted. Rheological tests showed an increased viscosity and lower solubility of SPH when compared with the other hydrogels. Histomorphometric analyses in cancellous bone showed a decrease of ST in PH30 (p = .003) and an increase of NB (PH30: p = .001; SPH: p = .014) over time. A comparison of both BSMs revealed no significant differences. The addition of SiO2 to a P407 hydrogel‐based hydroxyapatite BSM improves its mechanical stability (viscosity, solubility) while showing similar in vivo healing properties compared to PH30. Additionally, the SiO2‐enrichment allows a reduction of poloxamer ratio in the hydrogel without impairing the material properties.
Multidimensional Fiber‐to‐Chip Optical Processing Using Photonic Integrated Circuits
Authors: Wan Yuanjian , Cao Xiaoping , Cai Chengkun , Li Kang , Yang Min , Yan Guofeng , Zhao Weike , Peng Yingying , Shi Yaocheng , Dai Daoxin , Wang Jian
Published: May 2024

Multidimensional multiplexing technologies have been proven to be a promising scheme to meet the demands of high‐capacity optical interconnects and optical processing networks. However, challenges remain to realize multidimensional hybrid multiplexing data transmission and signal processing between few‐mode fiber transmission links and on‐chip optical processing networks, since the optical coupling between fiber and chip is almost exclusively in the single‐mode regime. Here, a multidimensional fiber‐to‐chip optical processing system is proposed and demonstrated for hybrid wavelength‐, mode‐, and polarization‐division multiplexing signals, where multidimensional coupling between few‐mode fiber transmission link and on‐chip multi‐mode processing network is realized by using a 3D photonic integrated (de)multiplexers on a glass chip as well as 2D photonic integrated (de)multiplexers on a silicon chip, and the on‐chip multidimensional optical processing network composed by parallel cascaded micro‐ring resonator array performs a function of reconfigurable optical add/drop multiplexer. By operating wavelength‐division multiplexing in conjunction with mode‐division multiplexing and polarization‐division multiplexing, the communication bandwidth of fiber‐to‐chip optical processing systems can be further scaled.
Iimpact of federal LRPs on behavioral health workforce examined
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2024

In the midst of a national behavioral health workforce shortage, it is necessary to evaluate the nature and effectiveness of current federal policy strategies to address this public health crisis, study authors of a new policy review stated about identifying and characterizing the impact of federal loan repayment programs (LRPs) on the behavioral health workforce.
Training aims to help MH providers care for LGBTQ+ patients
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2024

Mental health providers have an obligation to understand stigma and health disparities among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and all sexual‐diverse and gender‐diverse (LGBTQ+) persons, deliver affirming care, and provide equitable services to their LGBTQ+ patients as a standard practice, said the authors of a new study published online in Psychiatric Services.
Large time existence and asymptotic stability of the generalized solution to flow and thermal explosion model of reactive real micropolar gas
Authors: Bašić‐Šiško Angela
Published: May 2024

We study the long time behavior of the generalized solution of the flow and thermal explosion model of the reactive real micropolar gas. The dynamics of the chemical reaction involved and the usual laws of conservation of mass, momentum, angular momentum, and energy generate a complex governing system of partial differential equations. The fluid is nonideal and non‐Newtonian. In this work, we prove that the problem can be solved in an infinite time domain and establish the asymptotic properties of the solution. Namely, we conclude that for certain parameter values, the solution stabilizes exponentially to a steady‐state solution, while for others the stabilization occurs but at power decay rate. At the end, we conducted a few numerical tests whereby we experimentally confirmed theoretical findings about long‐term behavior of the solution.
MPIGAN: An end‐to‐end deep based generative framework for high‐resolution magnetic particle imaging reconstruction
Authors: Zhao Jing , Shen Yusong , Liu Xinyi , Hou Xiaoyuan , Ding Xuetong , An Yu , Hui Hui , Tian Jie , Zhang Hui
Published: May 2024

Background

Magnetic particle imaging (MPI) is a recently developed, non‐invasive in vivo imaging technique to map the spatial distribution of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) in animal tissues with high sensitivity and speed. It is a challenge to reconstruct images directly from the received signals of MPI device due to the complex physical behavior of the nanoparticles. System matrix and X‐space are two commonly used MPI reconstruction methods, where the former is extremely time‐consuming and the latter usually produces blurry images.

Purpose

Currently, we proposed an end‐to‐end machine learning framework to reconstruct high‐resolution MPI images from 1‐D voltage signals directly and efficiently.

Methods

The proposed framework, which we termed “MPIGAN”, was trained on a large MPI simulation dataset containing 291 597 pairs of high‐resolution 2‐D phantom images and each image's corresponding voltage signals, so that it was able to accurately capture the nonlinear relationship between the spatial distribution of SPIONs and the received voltage signal, and realized high‐resolution MPI image reconstruction.

Results

Experiment results showed that, MPIGAN exhibited remarkable abilities in high‐resolution MPI image reconstruction. MPIGAN outperformed the traditional methods of system matrix and X‐space in recovering the fine‐scale structure of magnetic nanoparticles’ spatial distribution and achieving enhanced reconstruction performance in both visual effects and quantitative assessments. Moreover, even when the received signals were severely contaminated with noise, MPIGAN could still generate high‐quality MPI images.

Conclusion

Our study provides a promising AI solution for end‐to‐end, efficient, and high‐resolution magnetic particle imaging reconstruction.
Online detection of the incidence via transfer learning
Authors: Yu Miaomiao , Wang Zhijun , Wu Chunjie
Published: May 2024

The counting process has abundant applications in reality, and Poisson process monitoring actually has received extensive attention and research. However, conventional methods experience poor performance when shifts appears early and only small number of historical observations in Phase I can be used for estimation. To overcome it, we creatively propose a new online monitoring algorithm under the transfer learning framework, which utilizes the information from observations of additional data sources so that the target process can be described better. By making the utmost of the somewhat correlated data from other domains, which is measured by a bivariate Gamma distributed statistic presented by us, the explicit properties (e.g., posterior probability mass function, posterior expectation, and posterior variance) are also strictly proved. Furthermore, based on the above theoretical results, we design two computationally efficient control schemes in Phase II, that is a control chart based on the cumulative distribution function for large shifts and an exponentially weighted moving average control chart for small shifts. For a better understanding of the more practical applications and transferability matter, we provide some optimal values for parameter setting. Extensive numerical simulations and a case of skin cancer incidence in America verify the superiorities of our approach.
Targeting brain‐derived neurotrophic factor in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases: A review
Authors: Wang Dong , Lang Zhi‐Chen , Wei Shi‐Nan , Wang Wei , Zhang Hao
Published: May 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases, marked by the gradual death of neurons, present a significant and growing public health challenge. Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is crucial for the survival, development, and synaptic plasticity of neurons. Studies have consistently demonstrated that perturbed BDNF communication pathways are associated with the development and progression of neurodegenerative conditions, underscoring their potential as therapeutic targets. This review aimed to summarize the existing findings regarding BDNF expression, metabolism, and signaling transduction. Furthermore, we reviewed the intricate roles of BDNF signaling pathways in neurodegenerative diseases, elucidating their contributions to disease onset and progression. The latest advancements in targeting BDNF for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, including the development of small molecules, nucleic acid‐based therapeutics, and antibody‐based approaches, were also summarized. Despite recent strides, challenges persist, including a lack of comprehensive understanding of BDNF modulation across diverse neurodegenerative contexts and the absence of clinically approved BDNF‐targeted drugs.
Income and money donation in middle‐income countries: Evidence from Brazil
Authors: de Jancso Fabiani Paula Maria , de Lucca Silveira Marcos Paulo , Pinheiro Flavio
Published: May 2024

Income plays a crucial role in shaping pro‐social behavior, particularly in the context of charitable giving. However, existing literature reveals mixed findings when dealing with the nuances in this relationship. This study aims to evaluate the main hypotheses concerning the influence of income on charitable giving, drawing on data from a 2021 national survey with 2099 respondents in Brazil. This study contributes with new evidence to the topic within the context of a middle‐income Latin American country, an aspect often overlooked in previous studies. Our analysis focuses on how an individual's household income influences three key aspects: the likelihood of giving, the amount given, and the proportion of household income donated. The findings indicate that individuals from higher‐income households donate larger sums of money but the same proportion of income as other income households. Household income does not significantly affect the likelihood of donating or the proportion of income donated.
DFT and TD‐DFT Studies of D‐π‐A Organic Dye Molecules with Different Spacers for highly Efficient Reliable Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Surendra Babu Nambury , Kuot Malang Maluak Paul , Abubakari Ismail
Published: May 2024

This study focuses on six D‐π‐A systems, utilizing diverse π‐spacers as bridges. Comprehensive analysis through Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Time‐dependent Functional Theory (TD‐DFT) methods at B3LYP using 6‐31G (d.p) basis set explores geometrical, electrical, optical, photovoltaic, and absorption properties. EHOMO, ELUMO, and energy gap (Egap), for all of these dyes have been determined and discussed using ground state optimization. TD‐DFT calculates optical properties, unveiling enhanced excitation energies and HOMO‐LUMO energy levels, indicative of improved electron injection and dye regeneration processes. Examination of energy gap, open‐circuit voltage (VOC), free energy change (ΔGinject), light harvesting efficiency (LHE), and absorption spectra reveals D4 dye′s lower Egap and robust absorption in the visible spectrum. Molecular tailoring emerges as a promising technique for optimizing D‐π‐A sensitizer design, offering potential advancements in DSSCs applications.
Comparing Satisfaction Among Providers Treating Both Pediatric and Adult Otolaryngology Patients
Authors: Huang Emily Y. , Park Ryan , Park Erica , Firpo Matthew A. , Park Albert H.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Although pediatric otolaryngology providers are reported to garner lower patient satisfaction than adults, this difference is not well characterized. This study investigates whether patient satisfaction differences exist in providers who treat both pediatric and adult patients.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

Tertiary medical center.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, Press Ganey surveys (PGS) completed by patients or parents on their first‐time visit with 5 general otolaryngology providers from July 2014 to March 2022 were analyzed. Surveys were categorized by child (<18 years old) or adult and consisted of 14 items including 6 service domains of access, visit, nursing, provider, personal issues, and assessment. Analysis was performed with Walsh's t test and analysis of variance. Multivariable logistic regression, controlling for wait times and provider, evaluated the likelihood of highest satisfaction scores (HI‐SCORES) based on age.

Results

A total of 2549 patients (135 pediatric, 2414 adults) completed the PGS on their initial visit. There was no significant difference in the mean overall satisfaction scores between pediatric and adult patients. Further analysis of service domains among pediatric patients found the mean score in the access domain to be higher for the 6‐ to 11‐year‐old age group (0‐5 years old: 85.5 ± 20.5 [mean ± SD], 6‐11 years old: 94.7 ± 11.5, 12‐17 years old: 87.3 ± 15.4, P = .03). Pediatric patients did not have a significantly higher likelihood (odds ratio = 1.1, 95% confidence interval: 0.8‐1.6, P > .05) of reporting HI‐SCORES compared to adults after covariate adjustment.

Conclusion

There was no significant difference in patient satisfaction scores for providers who treat pediatric and adult patients utilizing the same facility and scheduling team.
Affect and satisfaction time dependency: An experience sampling study
Authors: Anić Petra , Tončić Marko
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to test the time dependency between affect and satisfaction on a momentary level. Ninety‐eight students participated in the study, using the experience sampling method. Affect and satisfaction scales were administered five times a day for 7 days via handheld devices, sampling the whole awake period with ratings approximately 3–4 h apart. The aim of this study was to examine the cross‐correlation between affect and satisfaction at the intra‐individual level and to test their temporal consistency via lagged cross‐correlations. On average, satisfaction was robustly associated with positive affect (PA; mean correlation 0.50) and negative affect (NA; mean correlation −0.38). The correlation of satisfaction with affect factors showed a consistent temporal dependency. Lag (i.e., the shift of one time series with respect to another) significantly affected the magnitude of the correlation coefficients of satisfaction with PA and NA (explaining almost half of the correlation variance). A significant affect–satisfaction cross‐correlation can be found when no lag is present. The introduction of a lag reduces the affect–satisfaction cross‐correlation to virtually zero. Research suggests that affect and satisfaction overlap at the momentary level, and the results of this study imply that they are also time‐dependent. These findings corroborate the idea that momentary satisfaction judgments are partially based on available emotional information, both in terms of intensity and temporal consistency.
RETRACTED: Evaluation of proteome dynamics: Implications for statistical confidence in mass spectrometric determination
Authors: Popova Inga , Savelyeva Ekaterina , Degtyarevskaya Tatyana , Babaskin Dmitrii , Vokhmintsev Andrei
Published: May 2024

Single‐cell proteomics is currently far less productive than other approaches. Still, the proteomic community is having trouble adapting to the limitation of having to examine fewer cells than they would like. Studies on a small number of cells should be carefully planned to maximize the chances of success in this situation. This study aims to determine how sample size and measurement speed (slope)/variation affect the accuracy of a protein proteome mass spectrometric determination. The determination accuracy was shown to increase, and the false positive rate was shown to decrease as the sample size increased from 7 to 100 cells and the measurement slope/variation (S/V) ratio increased from 1 to 6. Furthermore, it was discovered that the number of cells in the sample increased the accuracy of this estimate. Thus, for 100 cells, the measurement S/V ratio was typically estimated to be very close to the real‐world value, with a standard deviation of 0.35. For sample sizes from 7 to 100 cells, this accuracy was seen when calculating the measurement S/V ratio. The findings can help researchers plan experiments for mass spectroscopic protein proteome determination and other research purposes.
Molecular dynamics simulation study of post‐transition state bifurcation: A case study on the ambimodal transition state of dipolar/Diels–Alder cycloaddition
Authors: Murakami Tatsuhiro , Kikuma Yuya , Hayashi Daiki , Ibuki Shunichi , Nakagawa Shoto , Ueno Hinami , Takayanagi Toshiyuki
Published: May 2024

The potential energy surfaces for the reactions of 1,3‐butadiene with 2‐hydroxythioacrolein and 2‐aminoacrolein exhibit ambimodal transition states leading to both dipolar (4 + 3) and Diels–Alder (4 + 2) cycloaddition products, thereby demonstrating a post transition state bifurcation feature. We have investigated the bifurcation dynamics of these reactions using three molecular dynamics (MD) methods: quasi‐classical trajectory, classical MD, and ring‐polymer MD simulations. The trajectory calculations were performed with the semiempirical GFN2‐xTB method with the element‐specific parameters optimized to reproduce the density‐functional theory calculations. The effect of water solvation was examined using an implicit solvation model, revealing significant differences in bifurcation dynamic between gas‐phase and solution‐phase reactions. Nuclear quantum effects were found to play a crucial role in the proton‐transfer process from the (4 + 3) intermediate to the (4 + 3) product in the case of the 2‐aminoacrolein reaction.
Electrochromic Thin‐Film Nickel‐Oxide Coatings for Systems with Adjustable Light Transmission
Authors: Strekalovskaya Darya A. , Baturova Ludmila P. , Kondrateva Anastasia S. , Semencha Aleksander V. , Andreeva Valentina D.
Published: May 2024

In this study, results on the effect of technological parameters of the nickel(II)‐oxide thin‐film deposition process, obtained through chemical vapor deposition in an argon–oxygen environment using bis‐(ethylcyclopentadienyl)‐nickel (EtCp)2Ni, on their electrochromic properties, are presented. It is shown that the films lose ability to electrochromic coloring in alkaline environments as their thickness increases up to 170 nm. The introduction of small ozone additions of 0.1 vol% O3 into the gas phase leads to a decrease in the NiO films deposition rate, the formation of a rougher layer with an average grain size up to 71.4 nm, capable of coloring in light brown. Additional cathodic treatment of NiO films at a potential of −0.8 V for 30 s in alkaline environments containing fullerene C60(OH)24 leads to the modification of the surface layer and the formation of NiO–C carbon‐containing nanocomposite coatings with enhanced contrast and the ability to retain the colored state after polarization is turned off, i.e., possessing optical memory properties. Using NiO–C nanocomposite and indium–tin–oxide films, which have opposite coloring mechanisms, in the structure of an electrochromic device allows for an increase in the grade of glass darkening, significantly reducing energy consumption, improving operational characteristics, and life span.
Collaborative defense in the Arctic: Strengthening Norway's oil sector resilience through knowledge sharing and vigilance against drone threats
Authors: Steen Riana , Hansen Tommy B.
Published: May 2024

Norway's oil sector faces significant security challenges due to rapid technological advancements and heightened geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning threats from Russian drones. The sector maintains a vigilant approach, continually monitoring and adapting to evolving threats. This study investigates strategies employed by sector companies to mitigate challenges, emphasizing collaboration, effective network utilization, and learning from past incidents to enhance operational resilience. Our analysis aligns with three thematic areas from the Generic Resilience Management Guidelines developed under the EU‐funded H2020 project DARWIN: enhancing coordination in emergency response operations, managing adaptive capacities, and updating procedures and checklists. The study underscores the role of task forces, interdisciplinary teams, and collaborative efforts among industry operators in enhancing adaptability to threats. Findings indicated that although a willingness to draw insights from past incidents exists, a predominant reactive approach to learning prevails. Furthermore, a culture of secrecy prevalent in the sector inhibits knowledge sharing, potentially challenging overall resilience. In this complex context, proactive and transparent security approaches are imperative for Norway's oil sector to enhance resilience. Organizations should adopt a dynamic, technology‐integrated risk management approach, involving continuous policy revision and stakeholder engagement, as suggested in contemporary resilience enhancement strategies.
A unified controller of global trajectory tracking and posture regulation for a car‐like mobile robot
Authors: Yan Kai , Ma Baoli
Published: May 2024

This work proposes a smooth time‐varying controller for trajectory tracking and posture regulation problems of car‐like mobile robots (CLMR). Currently, few studies focus on the control problems of CLMR's kinematic model. Global trajectory tracking or global posture stabilization controller for CLMR has not yet been proposed. In this study, we propose a global trajectory tracking controller for CLMR for the first time. By setting a specific reference trajectory, the controller is generalized to the posture stabilization task. Obstacle avoidance is also taken into consideration in posture stabilization task. Unlike the prototypical method of transforming the model into a nonholonomic chained‐form system, the proposed method is designed based on the original tracking error equation. Therefore our approach does not have singularities and has a global attraction region. Furthermore, the global convergence of the proposed controllers is strictly proved using the proof by contradiction and Barbalat's lemma. Finally, simulated and actual experiments on a car‐like robot demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Fish behavior at the horizontal screen of a novel shaft hydropower plant
Authors: Funk Nicole , Knott Josef , Pander Joachim , Geist Juergen
Published: May 2024

Preventing fish entrainment during their downstream passage at hydropower plants remains a major challenge in reducing the ecological impacts of hydropower production. We investigated fish behavior at the world's first innovative shaft hydropower plant with its novel screen concept, aiming at reducing fish entrainment due to the fully horizontal arrangement of the screen and low vertical suction effects toward the turbine. Based on ARIS sonar recordings, we assessed whether fish could move unhindered across the turbine intake area toward the bypass corridors at the sluice gate for safe downstream passage. For a range of species (Anguilla anguilla, Barbus barbus, Thymallus thymallus, Salmo trutta, and Hucho hucho) and operation modes (high/low turbine load), we assessed behavioral patterns such as screen avoidance, dwelling behavior, and search behavior at the screen. Contrary to the engineers' expectations, the innovative screen arrangement neither guided the fish away from the turbine intake to the bypass corridors nor prevented them from swimming vertically into the turbine shaft. Rather, fish freely moved near the screen and avoidance behavior was only rarely observed. Both the dwelling and active search behavior, which was particularly evident in eel, are directly linked to an increased risk of screen passage and subsequent turbine‐related death or injuries. Our findings illustrate that consideration of fish behavior at turbine inlet structures is a crucial component which needs to be integrated with other variables such as fish mortality and injury patterns for a comprehensive evaluation and improvement of fish passage at hydropower plants.
M1 polarization induction by lead and amyloid peptides in microglial cells: Implications for neurodegeneration process
Authors: Lokesh Murumulla , Bandaru Lakshmi Jaya Madhuri , Rajanna Ajumeera , Dhayal Virendra Singh , Challa Suresh
Published: May 2024

Neurodegeneration in conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. This study explores the potential neurodegenerative effects of lead (Pb) toxicity and amyloid beta peptides (Aβp 1–40 and Aβp 25–35) by promoting M1 polarization in microglial cells. To this end, we investigated and observed that IC50 concentrations of Pb (22.8 μM) and Aβp 25–35(29.6 μM). Our results demonstrated significant Pb uptake (31.13% at 25 μM Pb) and increased intracellular ROS levels (77.1%) upon treatment with Pb in combination of both Aβp 1–40 and Aβp 25–35. Protein carbonylation significantly increased (73.12 nmol/mL) upon treatment with Pb in combination of both Aβp 1–40 and Aβp 25–35, indicating oxidative damage and compromised cellular defenses against oxidative stress along with elevated DNA oxidative damage (164.9 pg/mL of 8‐OH‐dG) upon treatment with Pb in combination with both Aβp 1–40 and Aβp 25–35. Microglial polarization showed elevated M1 markers (inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase 2) and reduced M2 markers (arginase‐1 and cluster of differentiation 206), suggesting Pb's role in inducing neurodegenerative microglial polarization. These findings provide insights into the complex molecular events contributing to Pb‐induced neurotoxicity and neurodegenerative diseases.
Finding a care plan that suits everyone
Authors: Capon Hannah
Published: May 2024

In a recent survey, Hannah Capon asked the owners of arthritic dogs what they would like vets to do differently. She'll be using her findings to help delegates at BVA Live better understand the owner experience of veterinary care and contextualise their approach accordingly.
Study on efficiency and mechanism of ultrasonic controlling membrane fouling in ceramic membrane bioreactors
Authors: Ren Wenyi , Zhang Shoubin , Liu Yutian , Ju Weipeng , Liu Guicai , Xie Kang
Published: May 2024

In recent years, ceramic membranes have been increasingly used in membrane bioreactors (MBRs). However, membrane fouling was still the core issue restricting the large‐scale engineering application of ceramic MBRs. As a novel and alternative technology, ultrasonic could be used to control membrane fouling. This research focused on the efficiency and mechanism of ultrasonic controlling membrane fouling in ceramic MBRs. The results showed that ultrasonic reduced the sludge concentration in MBR, and the average particle size of sludge was always in a high range. The sludge activity of the system was stable at 6–9 (mg O2·(g MLSS·h)−1), indicating that ultrasonic did not destroy the activity of microorganisms in the system. The extracellular polymer substance (EPS) of the ultrasonic group was slightly higher than that of the control group, while the soluble microbial product (SMP) content was relatively stable. The ceramic membrane of the ultrasonic group has a partial retention effect on the organic components. The application of ultrasonic slowed down the decrease of the hydrophilicity of the ceramic membrane. The main pollutants on the membrane surface exist in the form of aromatic and heteroaromatic rings, alkynes, and so forth. Ultrasonic removes the amide substances from the membrane surface. Membrane fouling resistance is mainly due to membrane pore blockage, accounting for 75.53%.

Practitioner Points

Enrich the research on the mechanism of ultrasonic technology in membrane fouling control.

The MBR can still operate normally with ultrasonic applied.

The time for the ceramic membrane to reach the fouling end point is 2.4 times that without ultrasonic.

The main cause of membrane fouling was pore blocking, accounting for 75.53%.
Carbon-Bonded Filter Materials and Filter Structures with Active and Reactive Functional Pores for Steel Melt Filtration
Authors: Bock-Seefeld Benjamin , Gehre Patrick , Aneziris Christos G.
Published: May 2024

There exists an increasing pressure on the metal making and metal using industry to remove solid and liquid inclusions such as deoxidation products, sulfides, nitrides carbides etc. and thereby improve metal cleanliness. It is well known that size, type and distribution of non-metallic inclusions in metal exert considerable effects on the mechanical properties of the cast products. In terms of this contribution a new generation of metal qualities via melt filtration with superior mechanical properties for use in light weight structures and high demand construction materials are explored. The main target is an enormous reduction of non-metallic inclusions in the metal matrix by the use of intelligent filter materials as well as filter systems with a functionalized filter surface. Especially a new generation of combined refining filter systems will be illustrated. The metal melt comes first in contact with a reactive filter which generates gas bubbles in the melt as well as activates gas bubbles on the surface of the inclusions. As a result, a kind of flotation of the inclusions towards the slag on the surface of the melt takes place. Further the high reactivity as well as the gas bubbles contribute to the agglomeration of the fine inclusions to big clusters which flow due to buoyancy forces to the surface of the melt or are filtrated on the surface of active filters, which do not form gas bubbles but provide on their functionalized surfaces the same chemistry as the inclusions for a sufficient adhesion and as a result for a sufficient filtration of the inclusions. With this approach a purification higher than 95% can be achieved. Another topic is dealing with carbon-bonded filter materials based on environmentally friendly binder system based on lactose and tannin. Furthermore, functional calcium aluminate coatings in combination with carbon are studied with regard to their impact on the active/reactive filtration and flotation in steel melts, respectively. Another major focus is the investigation of water-soluble filter skeleton-templates, which are produced by 3D-hybrid-printing techniques and coated by flame spraying technology. Subsequently, the filter skeleton-templates are removed in water, avoiding sharp-edged cavities inside the filter.
Novel Ceramic Foam Filter Materials for the Filtration of Magnesium Alloy Melts
Authors: Schramm Alina , Aneziris Christos G. , Scharf Christiane
Published: May 2024

Cleanliness of magnesium alloy melts plays an important role in producing high-quality, lightweight products exemplary for the automotive or aircraft industry with high-quality standards. Therefore, the applicability of ceramic foam filters in the active and reactive filtration of magnesium alloys was explored as an option of metallurgical refining. Carbon-bonded alumina foams were selected in their uncoated as well as variously coated states. To evaluate the applicability of selected ceramic filter materials, various tests were applied, investigating filter properties, interface interactions, melt cleanliness and wetting behavior of the filter, such as sessile drop tests, immersion and filtration tests, and metallographic evaluation of AZ91. Immersion tests in AZ91 at 680 °C for up to 60 min showed the durability of coated and uncoated Al2O3-C and the formation of finely-structured MgO in-situ layers on any alumina- or spinel-containing surfaces in contact with molten AZ91. These layers, resulting from interface reactions with the melt, are regarded to have the potential to attract and bind oxidic inclusions from the metallic melt during filtration, as AZ91 samples showed reduced inclusion amounts after their contact with Al2O3-C filters. Another milestone was the synthesis of MgAlON as a filter coating, proven to be resistant towards the reactive magnesium alloy melt.
Increasing Cleanliness of Al-melts by Additon of Ceramic Fibers
Authors: Hoppach Daniel , Peuker Urs A.
Published: May 2024

The application of ceramic foam filters (CFF) ensures the achievement of the required mechanical properties of cast refractory products. Thereby, the present solid non-metallic impurities precipitate on the surface of the CFF struts and junctions. The Collaborative Research Center 920 deals with the removal of these impurities to increase the metal melt cleanliness in a basic scientific research approach. The findings are of high importance for metal processing industry and an application transfer aims to contribute towards an innovative and competitive casting industry. Subsequent, one promising approach is presented.
Thermodynamic Assessment as a Tool for Modeling Interactions at the Interface Between Ceramic Filter and Melt
Authors: Ilatovskaia Mariia , Fabrichnaya Olga
Published: May 2024

The chapter will focus on the thermodynamic database development relevant to modeling the interactions between filter materials, coatings, and inclusions in steel and Al-alloy. The CALPHAD approach is applied to develop thermodynamic databases, i.e. the available phase diagram data and experimental thermodynamic values are used to optimize the parameters describing the Gibbs energy of phases which can exist in the system. Thermodynamic description of multicomponent systems is the basis for more advance simulation of technological processes. In the chapter, the fundamentals and theory of thermodynamic modeling will be discussed in detail, and the most important results obtained will be presented. Examples of the thermodynamic calculations applied for solution of technological problems will be discussed.
Dealing with Fe in Secondary Al-Si Alloys Including Metal Melt Filtration
Authors: Becker Hanka , Leineweber Andreas
Published: May 2024

Fe is a detrimental impurity element in secondary, i. e. recycled, Al–Si cast alloys (Zhang et al. in Miner. Process. Extr. Metall. Rev. 33:99, 2012;Raabe et al. in Prog. Mater. Sci. 128, 2022;). It leads to decrease of castability and promotes crack formation due to formation of primary, Fe-containing intermetallic particles, e.g. plate-shaped β-Al–Fe–Si, coarse αh-Al–Fe–Si or αc-Al–(Fe,Mn,Cr)–Si in presence of further transition metal elements e.g. Mn and Cr. Successfully, dealing with such secondary Al–Si cast alloys contributes to sustainability, circular economy and reduction of energy consumption (Raabe et al. in Prog. Mater. Sci. 128, 2022;Taylor in Mater. Sci. Forum 689:429, 2011;). In the present chapter, a systematic understanding is provided for dealing with Fe impurities in secondary Al–Si alloys by.

removal of Fe on the basis of melt conditioning and metal melt filtration and

modification of Fe-containing phases into harmless microstructural components.

In this context new insight is obtained into.

the crystal structures of some relevant intermetallic phases occurring in secondary Al–Si alloys,

thermodynamics and kinetics of phase formation during solidification and

the interaction of different filter materials with the transition metal containing Al–Si alloys.

The crystal structures of the β-Al–Fe–Si and δ-Al–Fe–Si phases and of their ordered variants were investigated. This allowed reliable distinction of occurring intermetallic phases, the αh-Al–Fe–Si, the αc-Al–(Fe,Mn,Cr)–Si, the β-Al–Fe–Si and the δ-Al–Fe–Si phase, especially by electron backscatter diffraction. While modification of the alloy composition by the Mn, Cr content and presence of other transition metal elements affect the thermodynamic properties of the phases, these elements also significantly affect the kinetics of phase formation during solidification at high cooling rates including the resulting phase morphology. The formation of primary, intermetallic phases during melt conditioning closely above the solidification temperature of the (Al)-solid solution can be utilized for the removal of Fe by separating the primary, Fe-containing, intermetallic particles from the Fe-depleted Al melt. Removal of such particles by application of filters to increase the Fe-removal efficiency extends the filters’ use beyond the removal of nonmetallic inclusions, contributing to production of high-quality, recycled Al–Si alloys. Evaluation of wettability, chemical reactions and microstructure in the interaction region between the filter material and Al–Si melts and the Fe-depleted melt reveals a beneficial effect of C-bonded Al2O3 filter material.
AI-Generated Future: What Awaits Tourism and Hospitality with AI-Based Deep Learning Technologies?
Authors: Collins Ayşe , Ali Seyid Amjad , Yılmaz Semih
Published: May 2024

AI-based technologies are taking the world by storm – rapidly changing the course of many industries from arts to education, healthcare to entertainment, and even areas of life we are yet to discover [1–4]. The application of AI-based technologies is also emerging in travel and tourism industries [5, 6], but remains underexplored as a research area [7–9] when specific and feasible AI applications are considered. This study describes and appraises several emerging AI-based deep learning technologies that are un(der)utilized in tourism fields but promise high utility in the future. Furthermore, potential application areas of these technologies within the context of tourism are detailed. Possible research routes and methodologies to investigate the functionality of AI-based applications are also outlined.
Influencers and Tourism: Story of a Recent and Revolutionary Phenomenon: What Does Bibliometric Analysis Reveal
Authors: Benhaida Soufiane , Safaa Larbi , Perkumiené Dalia
Published: May 2024

The field of tourism has recently undergone a revolutionary transformation, driven by the rapid expansion of digital platforms and the simultaneous rise of influencer culture. The convergence of these factors has led to a noticeable realignment in how tourists perceive travel destinations. Influencers now play a central role, leveraging genuine and superficial credibility and expertise in specific domains. This phenomenon has captured the attention of scholars, practitioners, and policymakers, catalyzing a wave of research aimed at delving into the multifaceted intersection of influencers and tourism. This article presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to examine the scholarly output related to influencers and tourism over the past decade. This methodology provides a comprehensive overview, unveiling an abundant and diverse work. The study identifies 196 articles published between 2005 and 2023, involving 504 authors across 123 journals. Cluster analyses highlight a dynamic and nuanced recomposition of subthemes, reflective of an evolving reality in the making.
Educational Disparities Before and After the Transition from Primary to Secondary School in Germany: BiKS-8-18 Results on Differences in Children’s School Outcomes and Decision-Making Processes
Authors: Blossfeld Hans-Peter , Kleine Lydia , Luplow Nicole , Nester Markus , Schmitt Monja
Published: May 2024

Using data from BiKS-8-18 longitudinal cohort from Bavaria and Hesse, BiKS Project 5 focused on analyzing disparate educational trajectories and outcomes among students 8-18 years old. Applying Boudon’s (1974) theoretical distinction between primary and secondary effects of social origin, this chapter summarizes the results of the influence of social origin, social relations, and intra- and extrafamilial support on different dimensions of success at school, including competencies, grades, and school self-concept. The empirical findings demonstrate the centrality of intra-family and family-school relationships before and even after the transition to secondary school and the limited opportunities in Germany to correct earlier educational decisions in secondary school. The project also involved investigating the educational decision-making processes of parents (and older students) from different social backgrounds and teachers before and after the transition from primary to secondary school to shed light on Boudon’s secondary effects of social origin. In particular, the dynamic impacts of parental aspirations and the family’s social capital, educational costs, and probabilities of success on early tracking decisions were examined and proved to be relevant, albeit not for all social groups and situations.