bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clustering Business Models of Heterogeneous Nature-Based Solutions Implementing Innovative Governance and Financing Concepts
Authors: Stork Simon , Pölling Bernd , Lorleberg Wolf , Morgenstern Rolf , Feil Jan-Henning
Published: November 2023

Nature-based solutions (NBSs) are considered sustainable, cost-efficient, and resource-efficient land-use management approaches. When analysing NBS business models, two major challenges are commonly identified as slowing down broader NBS implementation: governance and financing barriers. This explorative study aims first to test the applicability of a NBS specific business model template and, second, to provide a clustered NBS business model pilot case study collection, which enables transferable solutions for overcoming the typical implementation challenges to be derived. Methodically, this is achieved by using the Nature-based Sustainability Business Model Canvas (NB S BMC for guided interviews. Twenty-three NBS case studies from proGIreg’s four Front Runner Cities, namely Dortmund, Ningbo, Turin, and Zagreb, are examined. Pestoff’s welfare triangle enables the NBS business models to be clustered. The main business model clusters are public provision, sales, and diversified. NBSs’ governance models are very adaptable to individual NBS cases, of the independent type, and can include a huge diversity of involved stakeholders regarding their functions in the NBS implementation. Our findings highlight adaptable governance models across diverse stakeholder functions and confirm the NB S BMC as a robust framework for understanding NBS business models. These insights extend to land-use practices beyond NBSs, offering a template for innovative urban planning strategies.
Almost Automorphic Solutions to Nonlinear Difference Equations
Authors: Kostić Marko , Koyuncuoğlu Halis Can , Fedorov Vladimir E.
Published: November 2023

In the present work, we concentrate on a certain class of nonlinear difference equations and propose sufficient conditions for the existence of their almost automorphic solutions. In our analysis, we invert an appropriate mapping and obtain the main existence outcomes by utilizing the contraction mapping principle. As the second objective of the manuscript, we reconsider one of the landmark results, namely the Bohr–Neugebauer theorem, in the qualitative theory of dynamical equations, and we investigate the relationship between the existence of almost automorphic solutions and the existence of solutions with a relatively compact range for the proposed difference equation type. Thus, we provide a discrete counterpart of the Bohr–Neugebauer theorem due to the almost automorphy notion under some technical conditions.
Expectation-Maximization Algorithm for the Weibull Proportional Hazard Model under Current Status Data
Authors: Chen Sisi , Yang Fengkai
Published: November 2023

Due to the flexibility of the Weibull distribution and the proportional hazard (PH) model, Weibull PH is widely used in survival analysis under right censored data and interval censored data but it is seldom investigated under current status data, partially because there is less information in current status data than in right censored data and interval censored data. This paper considers the Weibull PH model under the current status data and introduces the Poisson latent variables to augment the data, then uses the expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm to obtain the maximum likelihood estimators of the model parameters. The EM algorithm is compared with the Newton–Raphson (NR) algorithm from several perspectives in the simulation studies, and the results show that the proposed method has several highlights, such as computational simplicity, improved convergence stability, and overall estimator results that are either comparable or slightly better in terms of bias. Furthermore, the performance of the Weibull PH model and the semi-parametric PH model is compared under two simulation scenarios, and two standard model selection criteria are used for model selection. The results indicate that the Weibull PH model has significant advantages when failure time follows a Weibull distribution. Lastly, the Weibull PH model along with EM algorithm is applied to lung tumor data and intraocular lens (IOL) calcification data with the aim of assessing the impact of covariates, including environmental factors and gender, on event timing and risk.
Improving Determination of Pigment Contents in Microalgae Suspension with Absorption Spectroscopy: Light Scattering Effect and Bouguer–Lambert–Beer Law
Authors: Yeh Yen-Cheng , Ebbing Tobias , Frick Konstantin , Schmid-Staiger Ulrike , Haasdonk Bernard , Tovar Günter E. M.
Published: November 2023

The Bouguer–Lambert–Beer (BLB) law serves as the fundamental basis for the spectrophotometric determination of pigment content in microalgae. Although it has been observed that the applicability of the BLB law is compromised by the light scattering effect in microalgae suspensions, in-depth research concerning the relationship between the light scattering effect and the accuracy of spectrophotometric pigment determination remains scarce. We hypothesized that (1) the precision of spectrophotometric pigment content determination using the BLB law would diminish with increasing nonlinearity of absorbance, and (2) employing the modified version of the BLB (mBLB) law would yield superior performance. To assess our hypotheses, we cultivated Phaeodactylum tricornutum under varying illumination conditions and nitrogen supplies in controlled indoor experiments, resulting in suspensions with diverse pigment contents. Subsequently, P. tricornutum samples were diluted into subsamples, and spectral measurements were conducted using different combinations of biomass concentrations and path lengths. This was carried out to assess the applicability of the BLB law and the nonlinearity of absorbance. The chlorophyll a and fucoxanthin contents in the samples were analyzed via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and subsequently used in our modeling. Our findings confirm our hypotheses, showing that the modified BLB law outperforms the original BLB law in terms of the normalized root mean square error (NRMSE): 6.3% for chlorophyll a and 5.8% for fucoxanthin, compared to 8.5% and 7.9%, respectively.
Ectoine Globally Hypomethylates DNA in Skin Cells and Suppresses Cancer Proliferation
Authors: Qaria Majjid A. , Xu Chunyan , Hu Ran , Alsubki Roua A. , Ali Mohamed Yassin , Sivasamy Sethupathy , Attia Kotb A. , Zhu Daochen
Published: November 2023

Epigenetic modifications, mainly aberrant DNA methylation, have been shown to silence the expression of genes involved in epigenetic diseases, including cancer suppression genes. Almost all conventional cancer therapeutic agents, such as the DNA hypomethylation drug 5-aza-2-deoxycytidine, have insurmountable side effects. To investigate the role of the well-known DNA protectant (ectoine) in skin cell DNA methylation and cancer cell proliferation, comprehensive methylome sequence analysis, 5-methyl cytosine (5mC) analysis, proliferation and tumorigenicity assays, and DNA epigenetic modifications-related gene analysis were performed. The results showed that extended ectoine treatment globally hypomethylated DNA in skin cells, especially in the CpG island (CGIs) element, and 5mC percentage was significantly reduced. Moreover, ectoine mildly inhibited skin cell proliferation and did not induce tumorigenicity in HaCaT cells injected into athymic nude mice. HaCaT cells treated with ectoine for 24 weeks modulated the mRNA expression levels of Dnmt1, Dnmt3a, Dnmt3b, Dnmt3l, Hdac1, Hdac2, Kdm3a, Mettl3, Mettl14, Snrpn, and Mest. Overall, ectoine mildly demethylates DNA in skin cells, modulates the expression of epigenetic modification-related genes, and reduces cell proliferation. This evidence suggests that ectoine is a potential anti-aging agent that prevents DNA hypermethylation and subsequently activates cancer-suppressing genes.
Alcalase-Assisted Mytilus edulis Hydrolysate: A Nutritional Approach for Recovery from Muscle Atrophy
Authors: Amarasiri R. P. G. S. K. , Hyun Jimin , Lee Sang-Woon , Kim Jin , Jeon You-Jin , Lee Jung-Suck
Published: November 2023

Muscle atrophy is a complex physiological condition caused by a variety of reasons, including muscle disuse, aging, malnutrition, chronic diseases, immobilization, and hormonal imbalance. Beyond its effect on physical appearance, this condition significantly reduces the quality of human life, thus warranting the development of preventive strategies. Although exercising is effective in managing this condition, it is applicable only for individuals who can engage in physical activities and are not bedridden. A combination of exercise and nutritional supplementation has emerged as a more advantageous approach. Here, we evaluated the effects of enzyme-assisted hydrolysates of Mytilus edulis prepared using Protamex (PMH), Alcalase (AMH), or Flavourzyme (FMH) in protecting against muscle atrophy in a dexamethasone (Dex)-induced muscular atrophy model in vitro and in vitro. Alcalase-assisted M. edulis hydrolysate (AMH) was the most efficient among the tested treatments and resulted in higher protein recovery (57.06 ± 0.42%) and abundant amino acid composition (43,158 mg/100 g; 43.16%). AMH treatment also escalated the proliferation of C2C12 cells while increasing the total number of nuclei, myotube coverage, and myotube diameter. These results were corroborated by a successful reduction in the levels of proteins responsible for muscle atrophy, including E3 ubiquitin ligases, and an increase in the expression of proteins associated with muscle hypertrophy, including myogenin and MyHC. These results were further solidified by the successful enhancement of locomotor ability and body weight in zebrafish following AMH treatment. Thus, these findings highlight the potential of AMH in recovery from muscle atrophy.
Indications for Sleeve Gastrectomy—Is It Worth Waiting for Comorbidities to Develop?
Authors: Németh Zsuzsanna , Siptár Miklós , Tóth Natália , Tóth Krisztina , Csontos Csaba , Kovács-Ábrahám Zoltán , Csongor Alexandra , Molnár Ferenc , Márton Zsombor , Márton Sándor
Published: November 2023

(1) Background and Objectives: Morbid obesity significantly increases the prevalence of comorbidities, such as heart disease, restrictive lung disease, stroke, diabetes mellitus and more. (2) Methods: Patients undergoing gastric sleeve surgery were divided into three groups with BMI between 30–34.9 kg/m2 (Group I), 35–39.9 kg/m2 (Group II), and over 40 kg/m2 (Group III). Preoperative examinations included cardiac ultrasound, respiratory function and laboratory tests, and preoperative comorbidities were also recorded. Following a one-year follow-up, we compared the rate of weight loss in the three groups at six months and one year following surgery, specifically, the effect of surgery on preoperative comorbidities at one year. (3) Results: The weight loss surgeries performed were successful in all three groups. Preoperative laboratory examinations, an echocardiogram and respiratory function results showed no clinically significant difference, except moderate elevations in blood lipid levels. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity. (4) Conclusions: In our patient population, hypertension and diabetes were the only comorbidities with a high prevalence. It can be explained by the relatively younger age among the patients (mean age 44.5 years) and the fact that they had not yet developed the pathological consequences of severe obesity. Consequently, while performing the surgery at a relatively younger age, it seems far more likely that the patient will return to a more active and productive life and enjoy a better quality of life. Additionally, the perioperative risk is lower, and the burden upon health systems and health expenditure is reduced by preventing comorbidities, in particular, multimorbidity. On this basis, it may be advisable to direct patients who do not exhaust the classical indications for bariatric surgery toward the surgical solution at a younger age. Our results suggest it is not worth waiting for comorbidities, especially multimorbidity, to appear.
Effect of Zinc Oxide and Copper Sulfate on Antibiotic Resistance Plasmid Transfer in Escherichia coli
Authors: Raro Otávio Hallal Ferreira , Poirel Laurent , Nordmann Patrice
Published: November 2023

Heavy metals such as zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) may be associated with antibiotic resistance dissemination. Our aim was to investigate whether sub-lethal dosage of Zn and Cu may enhance plasmid transfer and subsequently resistance genes dissemination. Plasmid conjugation frequencies (PCF) were performed with Escherichia coli strains bearing IncL-blaOXA-48, IncA/C-blaCMY-2, IncI1-blaCTX-M-1, IncF-blaCTX-M-1, and IncX3-blaNDM-5 as donors. Mating-out assays were performed with sub-dosages of zinc oxide (ZnO) and Cu sulfate (CuSO4). Quantification of the SOS response-associated gene expression levels and of the production of reactive oxygen species were determined. Increased PCF was observed for IncL, IncA/C, and IncX3 when treated with ZnO. PCF was only increased for IncL when treated with CuSO4. The ROS production presented an overall positive correlation with PCF after treatment with ZnO for IncL, IncA/C, and IncX3. For CuSO4 treatment, the same was observed only for IncL. No increase was observed for expression of SOS response-associated genes under CuSO4 treatment, and under ZnO treatment, we observed an increase in SOS response-associated genes only for IncX3. Our data showed that sub-dosages of ZnO and CuSO4 could significantly enhance PCF in E. coli, with a more marked effect observed with IncL, IncA/C, and IncX3 scaffolds. Our study suggested that use of certain heavy metals is not the panacea for avoiding use of antibiotics in order to prevent the dissemination of antibiotic resistance.
Rhizoglomus variabile and Nanoglomus plukenetiae, Native to Peru, Promote Coffee Growth in Western Amazonia
Authors: Corazon-Guivin Mike Anderson , Romero-Cachique Gabriel , Del Aguila Karen M. , Padilla-Domínguez Amner , Hernández-Amasifuen Angel David , Cerna-Mendoza Agustin , Coyne Danny , Oehl Fritz
Published: November 2023

Coffee (Coffea arabica) is among the world’s most economically important crops. Coffee was shown to be highly dependent on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in traditionally managed coffee plantations in the tropics. The objective of this study was to assess AMF species richness in coffee plantations of four provinces in Perú, to isolate AMF isolates native to these provinces, and to test the effects of selected indigenous AMF strains on coffee growth. AMF species were identified by morphological tools on the genus level, and if possible further to the species level. Two native species, Rhizoglomus variabile and Nanoglomus plukenetiae, recently described from the Peruvian mountain ranges, were successfully cultured in the greenhouse on host plants. In two independent experiments, both species were assessed for their ability to colonize coffee seedlings and improve coffee growth over 135 days. A total of 35 AMF morphospecies were identified from 12 plantations. The two inoculated species effectively colonized coffee roots, which resulted in 3.0–8.6 times higher shoot, root and total biomass, when compared to the non-mycorrhizal controls. R. variabile was superior to N. plukenetiae in all measured parameters, increasing shoot, root, and total biomass dry weight by 4.7, 8.6 and 5.5 times, respectively. The dual inoculation of both species, however, did not further improve plant growth, when compared to single-species inoculations. The colonization of coffee by either R. variabile or N. plukenetiae strongly enhances coffee plant growth. R. variabile, in particular, offers enormous potential for improving coffee establishment and productivity. Assessment of further AMF species, including species from other AMF families should be considered for optimization of coffee growth promotion, both alone and in combination with R. variabile.
Identification and Growth Characteristics of a Gluten-Degrading Bacterium from Wheat Grains for Gluten-Degrading Enzyme Production
Authors: Lee Ga-Yang , Jung Min-Jeong , Kim Byoung-Mok , Jun Joon-Young
Published: November 2023

Immunogenic peptides from wheat gluten can be produced during digestion, which are difficult to digest by gastrointestinal proteases and negatively affect immune responses in humans. Gluten intolerance is a problem in countries where wheat is a staple food, and a gluten-free diet is commonly recommended for its treatment and prevention. Enzyme approaches for degradation of the peptides can be considered as a strategy for its prevention. Here, we isolated a gluten-degrading bacterium, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens subsp. plantarum, from wheat grains. The culture conditions for enzyme production or microbial use were considered based on gluten decomposition patterns. Additionally, the pH range for the activity of the crude enzyme was investigated. The bacterium production of gluten-degrading enzymes was temperature-dependent within 25 °C to 45 °C, and the production time decreased with increasing culture temperature. However, it was markedly decreased with increasing biofilm formation. The bacterium decomposed high-molecular-weight glutenin proteins first, followed by gliadin proteins, regardless of the culture temperature. Western blotting with an anti-gliadin antibody revealed that the bacterium decomposed immunogenic proteins related to α/β-gliadins. The crude enzyme was active in the pH ranges of 5 to 8, and enzyme production was increased by adding gliadin into the culture medium. In this study, the potential of the B. amyloliquefaciens subsp. plantarum for gluten-degrading enzyme production was demonstrated. If further studies for purification of the enzyme specific to the immunogenic peptides and its characteristics are conducted, it may contribute as a strategy for prevention of gluten intolerance.
Predominance of Recombinant Norovirus Strains in Greece, 2016–2018
Authors: Siafakas Nikolaos , Anastassopoulou Cleo , Lafazani Maria , Chronopoulou Genovefa , Rizos Emmanouil , Pournaras Spyridon , Tsakris Athanasios
Published: November 2023

GII.4 noroviruses have caused the overwhelming majority of norovirus-related gastroenteritis cases during the past two decades. However, a trend towards the emergence of new genotypes and novel GII.4 variants provided the impetus to explore further the changing patterns in norovirus epidemiology during the present study. Genotyping of 60 norovirus strains detected during a period of 33 months (January 2016–October 2018) was performed on the basis of the capsid VP1-coding ORF2 gene sequence. All norovirus strains detected were classified into seven genotypes, six of which belonged to genogroup GII. GII.2 was the dominant genotype till February 2017, whereas GII.4 prevailed thereafter. Most of the GII.4 strains were of the Sydney_2012 variant, whereas five strains could not be classified. Further recombination analysis at the ORF1/ORF2 gene junction revealed that 23 out of 24 strains were recombinant, thereby showcasing the significant role of genetic recombination in norovirus evolution and epidemiology. Continuous genomic surveillance and molecular characterization are essential for tracking norovirus evolution, which could contribute to the elucidation of new aspects of virus–host interactions that potentially affect host morbidity and epidemiology.
Exploratory Study of the Relationship between an Oral Fungal Swab Test and Patient Blood Test Data
Authors: Itagaki Tatsuki , Sakata Ken-ichiro , Hasebe Akira , Kitagawa Yoshimasa
Published: November 2023

Our understanding of the relationship between oral Candida and systemic conditions has significantly increased recently, which this study aims to extend further by investigating the risks of oral candidiasis. A total of 314 patients were involved in this study and underwent an oral swab test at the Department of Oral Medicine, Hokkaido University Hospital, between January and December 2021. Data were collected on age, sex, white and red blood cell counts, Hb, total protein, vitamin B12, as well as serum albumin, iron, copper, and zinc levels. The clinical fungus samples were swabbed to identify those with Candida species using a MALDI Biotyper, then applied analysis of covariance and multivariant logistic regression analysis. It was possible to assess the oral swab test results without considering the difference between sex (p = 0.946). The oral swab test results were associated with aging (odds ratio: 1.03) and serum albumin levels (odds ratio: 0.32). In summary, the results of our study suggest a relationship between aging and oral candidiasis and offer in-depth insights into how to prevent or treat oral candidiasis onset.
Lessons from a Multilaboratorial Task Force for Diagnosis of a Fatal Toxoplasmosis Outbreak in Captive Primates in Brazil
Authors: Schiffler Francine Bittencourt , Pereira Asheley Henrique Barbosa , Moreira Silvia Bahadian , Arruda Igor Falco , Moreira Filipe Romero Rebello , D’arc Mirela , Claro Ingra Morales , Pissinatti Thalita de Abreu , Cavalcante Liliane Tavares de Faria , Miranda Thamiris dos Santos , Cosentino Matheus Augusto Calvano , de Oliveira Renata Carvalho , Fernandes Jorlan , Assis Matheus Ribeiro da Silva , de Oliveira Jonathan Gonçalves , da Silva Thayssa Alves Coelho , Galliez Rafael Mello , Faffe Debora Souza , de Jesus Jaqueline Goes , Sobreira Bezerra da Silva Marise , Bezerra Matheus Filgueira , Ferreira Junior Orlando da Costa , Tanuri Amilcar , Castiñeiras Terezinha Marta , Aguiar Renato Santana , Faria Nuno Rodrigues , Almeida Alzira Paiva de , Pissinatti Alcides , Sabino Ester Cerdeira , Amendoeira Maria Regina Reis , de Lemos Elba Regina Sampaio , Ubiali Daniel Guimarães , Santos André F. A.
Published: November 2023

Toxoplasmosis is an important zoonotic disease caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii and is especially fatal for neotropical primates. In Brazil, the Ministry of Health is responsible for national epizootic surveillance, but some diseases are still neglected. Here, we present an integrated investigation of an outbreak that occurred during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic among eleven neotropical primates housed at a primatology center in Brazil. After presenting non-specific clinical signs, all animals died within four days. A wide range of pathogens were evaluated, and we successfully identified T. gondii as the causative agent within four days after necropsies. The liver was the most affected organ, presenting hemorrhage and hepatocellular necrosis. Tachyzoites and bradyzoite cysts were observed in histological examinations and immunohistochemistry in different organs; in addition, parasitic DNA was detected through PCR in blood samples from all specimens evaluated. A high prevalence of Escherichia coli was also observed, indicating sepsis. This case highlights some of the obstacles faced by the current Brazilian surveillance system. A diagnosis was obtained through the integrated action of researchers since investigation for toxoplasmosis is currently absent in national guidelines. An interdisciplinary investigation could be a possible model for future epizootic investigations in animals.
Antioxidant Activity of Egg Yolk Protein Hydrolysates Obtained by Enzymatic and Sub-Critical Water Hydrolysis
Authors: Marcet Ismael , Carpintero María , Rendueles Manuel , Díaz Mario
Published: November 2023

Obtaining peptides with antioxidant properties by enzymatic hydrolysis has been widely described; however, the use of non-enzymatic methods to obtain peptides with antioxidant capacities has been poorly investigated. In this study, non-soluble proteins obtained from delipidated egg yolk granules were hydrolyzed with trypsin, and with a non-enzymatic method using sub-critical water hydrolysis under a non-oxidizing (nitrogen) and oxidizing (oxygen) atmosphere. The effect of the sub-critical water hydrolysis on the amino acids’ composition of the hydrolysates was assessed. Furthermore, the antioxidant capacities of the hydrolysates were evaluated using the ABTS•+ scavenging assay, the DPPH radical scavenging activity assay, and by measuring the reducing power of the peptides, the peptides’ ferrous ion chelating capacities, and the antioxidant effect of the peptides on beef homogenates. The hydrolysate obtained by sub-critical water hydrolysis under a nitrogen stream showed similar or better results in the antioxidant tests than those obtained using trypsin hydrolysis, except in the ferrous chelating capacity, where the trypsin hydrolysate showed the best performance. The oxidizing environment promoted by the oxygen in the other sub-critical water hydrolysis method tested produced the peptides with the lowest antioxidant capacities, due to changes in the primary structure of the peptides. These results suggest that the sub-critical water hydrolysis method under a nitrogen stream, in comparison with the enzymatic hydrolysis, is a reliable method to obtain peptides with good antioxidant capacities.
In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Methyl Derivatives of Flavanone
Authors: Kłósek Małgorzata , Krawczyk-Łebek Agnieszka , Kostrzewa-Susłow Edyta , Szliszka Ewelina , Bronikowska Joanna , Jaworska Dagmara , Pietsz Grażyna , Czuba Zenon P.
Published: November 2023

Inflammation plays an important role in the immune defense against injury and infection agents. However, the inflammatory chronic process may lead to neurodegenerative diseases, atherosclerosis, inflammatory bowel diseases, or cancer. Flavanones present in citrus fruits exhibit biological activities, including anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. The beneficial effects of flavanones have been found based on in vitro cell cultures and animal studies. A suitable in vitro model for studying the inflammatory process are macrophages (RAW264.7 cell line) because, after stimulation using lipopolysaccharide (LPS), they release inflammatory cytokines involved in the immune response. We determined the nitrite concentration in the macrophage cell culture and detected ROS using chemiluminescence. Additionally, we measured the production of selected cytokines using the Bio-Plex Magnetic Luminex Assay and the Bio-PlexTM 200 System. For the first time, we have shown that methyl derivatives of flavanone inhibit NO and chemiluminescence generated via LPS-stimulated macrophages. Moreover, the tested compounds at 1–20 µM dose-dependently modulate proinflammatory cytokine production (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12p40, IL-12p70, and TNF-α) in stimulated RAW264.7 cells. The 2′-methylflavanone (5B) and the 3′-methylflavanone (6B) possess the strongest anti-inflammatory activity among all the tested flavanone derivatives. These compounds reduce the concentration of IL-6, IL-12p40, and IL12p70 compared to the core flavanone structure. Moreover, 2′-methylflavanone reduces TNF-α, and 3′-methylflavanone reduces IL-1β secreted by RAW264.7 cells.
Automated Long-Term Stability of a High-Energy Laser
Authors: Morse Jack , Carter William , Oliveira Pedro , Galimberti Marco
Published: November 2023

We present a method for regulating the laser energy output with a software-controlled waveplate–polariser configuration. By implementing this technology, we have effectively eliminated energy output fluctuations over time, allowing for the laser to reach its nominal energy up to 2 h earlier. Our testing demonstrates a stability of 2.8% (RMS), verifying the system’s reliability. We provide an overview of the software and its basic operation, along with practical evidence of the system’s efficacy in maintaining a stable laser energy output.
Fiber Bragg Grating Salinity Sensor Array Based on Fiber Tapering and HF Etching
Authors: Li Gaochao , Wang Yongjie , Yan Mengchao , Xu Tuanwei , Shi Ancun , Liu Yuanhui , Li Xuechun , Li Fang
Published: November 2023

We propose a seawater salinity sensor array based on a micro/nanofiber Bragg grating structures, which allows for the simultaneous measurement of temperature and salinity. The proposed sensing structure is fabricated through a process involving optical fiber tapering, femtosecond laser inscription, and chemical etching. The equivalent refractive index (RI) of this sensor structure is influenced by the surrounding RI, resulting in a Bragg characteristic wavelength shift that can be used for salinity sensing. The experimental results show that the salinity sensitivity for two cascaded sensor arrays is 8.39 pm/‰ and 7.71 pm/‰, while the temperature sensitivity is 8.28 pm/°C and 8.03 pm/°C, respectively. This sensor structure is compact, exhibits excellent linearity, and offers good repeatability. It holds great potential for applications in seawater environmental monitoring and quantitative studies of seawater dispersion characteristics.
Rare-Earth-Doped Selenide Glasses as Laser Materials for the 5–6 μm Spectral Range
Authors: Denker Boris , Fjodorow Peter , Frolov Mikhail , Galagan Boris , Koltashev Vasily , Plotnichenko Victor , Sukhanov Maxim , Sverchkov Sergei , Velmuzhov Alexander
Published: November 2023

This paper provides an overview of mid-infrared lasers based on rare-earth-ion-doped selenide glasses. Laser action was demonstrated at the transitions between the first excited and the ground levels of Ce3+, Pr3+, Nd3+ and Tb3+ ions. The highest output parameters for bulk glass lasers (over 40 mJ of output energy) and wavelength tuning in the range of 4.6–5.6 microns were obtained with Ce3+-doped glass. The highest output parameters for fiber lasers (150 mW at 5.1–5.3 μm under continuous pumping) were demonstrated with Tb3+ ions. The longest lasing wavelengths for any glass laser and tunability within the 5.56–6.01 µm spectral band were shown with Nd3+ ions in a Tb3+-Nd3+ co-doped system.
Stable Acoustic Pulling in Two-Dimensional Phononic Crystal Waveguides Based on Mode Manipulation
Authors: Gao Yanyu , Cao Yongyin , Zhu Tongtong , Tang Donghua , Shi Bojian , Li Hang , Gao Wenya , Zhang Yanxia , Jia Qi , Li Xiaoxin , Feng Rui , Sun Fangkui , Ding Weiqiang
Published: November 2023

Acoustic manipulation is a set of versatile platforms with excellent manipulation capabilities. In recent years, researchers have increasingly achieved specific manipulations beyond the translation and capture of particles. Here, we focus on the acoustic field momentum mechanism that generates an acoustic radiation force (ARF). A phononic crystal (PC) waveguide is established to amplify the forward momentum of the acoustic beam through the mode conversion of the acoustic field. Based on the conservation of momentum, the object gains reverse momentum. Thus, acoustic pulling can be achieved through the mode conversion of the acoustic field. Furthermore, we analyze the ARFs of two identical objects. It turns out that they can be manipulated separately by opposing forces. Our study provides a new way to achieve stable long-range acoustic pulling, and will explore, beneficially, the interaction between acoustic waves and matter.
The Growth Mechanism, Luminescence, and Lasing of Polyhedral ZnO Microcrystals with Whispering-Gallery Modes
Authors: Zadorozhnaya Ludmila A. , Tarasov Andrey P. , Kanevsky Vladimir M.
Published: November 2023

This work studies the features of the formation of isometric polyhedral ZnO microcrystals that provide stimulated emission and whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) lasing in the near-UV range. For this purpose, the growth stages of such crystals in the process of gas-transport synthesis and the luminescent properties of the structures obtained at each stage were investigated. It was shown that the growth of laser microcrystals begins with the formation of microspheroids with thin ZnO shells. Such spheroids exhibit mainly white luminescence with a small contribution of near-UV emission. Increasing the synthesis duration results in thickening and faceting of the spheroid shells, as well as a decrease in the contribution of the yellow–red component to the luminescence spectrum. At the same time, ZnO microcrystallites nucleate and grow inside the spheroids, using as a material the remains of a liquid zinc drop and oxygen entering the spheroids through their shells. Such growth conditions allow them to take on an equilibrium polyhedral shape. Eventually, upon destruction of the spheroid shell, a polyhedral ZnO microcrystal supporting WGMs is observed.
Failure Analysis of an Elbow Tube Break in a Pyrolysis Furnace
Authors: Guo Fuping , Lyu Yunrong , Lian Weiqi , Duan Zhihong , Yu Wei
Published: November 2023

The pyrolysis furnace, a critical component in a pyrolysis unit, inevitably faces operational challenges during its use. This study investigates a case of pyrolysis furnace failure, particularly focusing on an occurrence at the 90° lug elbow and furnace tube weld. The failure, characterized by a comprehensive fracture of the furnace tube in the circumferential direction along the weld vicinity, transpired within a timeframe significantly shorter than one-third of the design life. To unravel the root cause, a series of experiments was conducted on a sample extracted from the failed tube. These experiments, comprising visual inspection, chemical composition analysis, metallographic examination, microstructure analysis, fracture scanning electron microscopy, and energy spectrum analysis, collectively aimed at a comprehensive understanding of the failure mechanisms. The results disclosed that the fracture between the lug elbow and the inlet pipe stemmed from the presence of porosity and inclusions in the butt weld. The initiation of cracks was traced to the pores and inclusions in the fusion line of the inner wall of the pyrolysis tube, extending to connect with the pores in the heat-affected zone on the side of the pyrolysis tube parent material. Subsequently, under the influence of high temperature and stress, the cracks propagated, crept, and expanded along the circumference of the pyrolysis tube parent material until the final fracture occurred. In light of these findings, practical recommendations are proposed to mitigate the risk of similar failures in the future.
Experimental Manufacturing of Ferromanganese Alloy from Man-Made Manganese-Containing Wastes
Authors: Tastanova Aisha , Temirova Saniya , Sukurov Bulat , Biryukova Alla , Abdykirova Gulnar
Published: November 2023

The results of experiments on manganese pellets based on beneficiated manganese-containing sludge and the melting of ferromanganese alloy with their use are presented. Via beneficiating manganese-containing sludge (16.32% Mn), a concentrate with a manganese content of 35.2% was obtained. The composition of the charge used to prepare manganese pellets is proposed, and the conditions affecting their strength are determined. It was established that manganese is present in the composition of calcined pellets in the form of jacobsite MnFe2O4 and hausmannite Mn3O4. The formation of a phase of ferrobustamite (Ca0.79Fe0.21)SiO3, a ferrosilico-calcium binder that helps increase the strength of pellets, was found. Ferromanganese alloy was obtained as a result of the melting of calcined manganese pellets in a high-temperature Tamman-type unit. The Fe-Mn-Si alloy corresponds to the DIN 17 564 as-grade FeMn70Si in terms of manganese (63.76%) and silicon (17.21%) contents. The content of limiting impurity elements—carbon and phosphorus—in ferromanganese alloy is within acceptable limits. The structure of Fe-Mn-Si alloy and slag formed during their smelting process were studied.
Past and Present Drivers of Karst Formation of Ciénega de El Mangle, Panama
Authors: Rivera-Solís Jaime , Quesada-Román Adolfo , Domazetović Fran
Published: November 2023

Tropical coastal karst areas represent dynamic, fragile, and biodiverse environments. Central America’s karst regions have been scarcely studied, with most of the research focused on the northern part of the region and on several larger cave systems. The coastal carbonate zones of the Central American region represent a unique karstic landscape, which, so far, has been insufficiently studied. Therefore, in this paper, we aim to describe the (i) landscape geomorphology and (ii) chemical conditions that define Ciénega de El Mangle in Panama as a distinctive karstic site. Carried geomorphological mapping and the characterization of karstic features have resulted in the identification of the different karstic forms and processes that are present within this unique karstic area. Considering that the chosen karstic study area is located in a marine–coastal fringe on the periphery of a lagoon, it is affected by a combination of several factors and processes, including seawater intrusion (through sinkholes), the formation of conchiferous limestone (CaCO3), and NaCl precipitation related to efflorescence. Due to the seasonally humid tropical climate, the chemical weathering processes are intense, thus forming alkaline soils that are hindering the development of mangrove vegetation. The geomorphology of the area results from intense evaporation combined with an influx of brackish groundwater, due to which a landscape has evolved in the marine–coastal strips, of seasonal tropical climates, that exhibit saline beaches, known as a littoral shott. In total, 24 karstic microdolines have evolved within the shott, of which six represent domical geoforms formed by gradual evaporitic precipitation, while seven other geoforms represent active karstic sinkholes filled with brackish water. These results are key for understanding the past and present climate interactions and conditions that have led to the formation of tropical karst environments.
Jewish Presences in Portugal: Between History and Memory
Authors: Stuczynski Claude B.
Published: November 2023

The history of the Jews in Portugal is often divided into three distinct periods: what I call the “time of the Jews”, the “time of the Inquisition” and the “time of return”. In this article, I will argue that the particular role played by the personal and collective multiple memories in each of these historical periods (by analyzing an array of primary and secondary sources, including medieval chronicles, inquisitorial sources and historiographical works), paradoxically blurs their chronological contours (namely, before 1497, between 1536 and 1821 and afterwards), and transforms the Jewish presence in Portugal into a challenging issue, from both a Jewish and a non-Jewish perspective, with far reaching biopolitical implications.
The Role of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography CT Extremity Arthrography in the Preoperative Assessment of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Hamard Marion , Sans Merce Marta , Gorican Karel , Poletti Pierre-Alexandre , Neroladaki Angeliki , Boudabbous Sana
Published: November 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent disease and the leading cause of pain, disability, and quality of life deterioration. Our study sought to evaluate the image quality and dose of cone-beam computed tomography arthrography (CBCT-A) and compare them to digital radiography (DR) for OA diagnoses. Overall, 32 cases of CBCT-A and DR with OA met the inclusion criteria and were prospectively analyzed. The Kellgren and Lawrence classification (KLC) stage, sclerosis, osteophytes, erosions, and mean joint width (MJW) were compared between CBCT-A and DR. Image quality was excellent in all CBCT-A cases, with excellent inter-observer agreement. OA under-classification was noticed with DR for MJW (p = 0.02), osteophyte detection (<0.0001), and KLC (p < 0.0001). The Hounsfield Unit (HU) values obtained for the cone-beam computed tomography CBCT did not correspond to the values for multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT), with a greater mean deviation obtained with the MDCT HU for Modeled Based Iterative Reconstruction 1st (MBIR1) than for the 2nd generation (MBIR2). CBCT-A has been found to be more reliable for OA diagnosis than DR as revealed by our results using a three-point rating scale for the qualitative image analysis, with higher quality and an acceptable dose. Moreover, the use of this imaging technique permits the preoperative assessment of extremities in an OA diagnosis, with the upright position and bone microarchitecture analysis being two other advantages of CBCT-A.
Medicines for Malaria Venture Pandemic Box In Vitro Screening Identifies Compounds Highly Active against the Tachyzoite Stage of Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: dos Santos Mike , Oliveira Costa Andréia Luiza , Vaz Guilherme Henrique de Souza , de Souza Gabriela Carolina Alves , Vitor Ricardo Wagner de Almeida , Martins-Duarte Érica S.
Published: November 2023

Toxoplasmosis is a disease that causes high mortality in immunocompromised individuals, such as AIDS patients, and sequelae in congenitally infected newborns. Despite its great medical importance, there are few treatments available and these are associated with adverse events and resistance. In this work, after screening the drugs present in the Medicines for Malaria Venture Pandemic Box, we found new hits with anti-Toxoplasma gondii activity. Through our analysis, we selected twenty-three drugs or drug-like compounds that inhibited the proliferation of T. gondii tachyzoites in vitro by more than 50% at a concentration of 1 µM after seven days of treatment. Nineteen of these compounds have never been reported active before against T. gondii. Inhibitory curves showed that most of these drugs were able to inhibit parasite replication with IC50 values on the nanomolar scale. To better understand the unprecedented effect of seven compounds against T. gondii tachyzoites, an ultrastructural analysis was carried out using transmission electron microscopy. Treatment with 0.25 µM verdinexor, 3 nM MMV1580844, and 0.25 µM MMV019724 induced extensive vacuolization, complete ultrastructural disorganization, and lytic effects in the parasite, respectively, and all of them showed alterations in the division process. Treatment with 1 µM Eberconazole, 0.5 µM MMV1593541, 1 µM MMV642550, 1 µM RWJ-67657, and 1 µM URMC-099-C also caused extensive vacuolization in the parasite. The activity of these drugs against intracellular tachyzoites supports the idea that the drugs selected in the Pandemic Box could be potential future drugs for the treatment of acute toxoplasmosis.
Combined Screw and Wedge Dislocations
Authors: Katanaev Mikhail O. , Mark Alexander V.
Published: November 2023

Elastic media with defects are considered manifold with nontrivial Riemann–Cartan geometry in the geometric theory of defects. We obtain the solution of three-dimensional Euclidean general relativity equations with an arbitrary number of linear parallel sources. It describes elastic media with parallel combined wedge and screw dislocations.
The Unsettled Number: Hubble’s Tension
Authors: Cervantes-Cota Jorge L. , Galindo-Uribarri Salvador , Smoot George F.
Published: November 2023

One of main sources of uncertainty in modern cosmology is the present rate of the universe’s expansion, H0, called the Hubble constant. Once again, different observational techniques bring about different results, causing new “Hubble tension”. In the present work, we review the historical roots of the Hubble constant from the beginning of the twentieth century, when modern cosmology originated, to the present. We develop the arguments that gave rise to the importance of measuring the expansion of the Universe and its discovery, and we describe the different pioneering works attempting to measure it. There has been a long dispute on this matter, even in the present epoch, which is marked by high-tech instrumentation and, therefore, in smaller uncertainties in the relevant parameters. It is, again, currently necessary to conduct a careful and critical revision of the different methods before one invokes new physics to solve the so-called Hubble tension.
Data-Driven Algorithm Based on Energy Consumption Estimation for Electric Bus
Authors: Zhao Xinxin , Zhang Ming , Xue Guangyu
Published: November 2023

The accurate estimation of battery state of charge (SOC) for modern electric vehicles is crucial for the range and performance of electric vehicles. This paper focuses on the historical driving data of electric buses and focuses on the extraction of driving condition feature parameters and data preprocessing. By selecting relevant parameters, a set of characteristic parameters for specific driving conditions is established, a process of constructing a battery SOC prediction model based on a Long short-term memory (LSTM) network is proposed, and different hyperparameters of the model are identified and adjusted to improve the accuracy of the prediction results. The results show that the prediction results can reach 1.9875% Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and 1.7573% Mean Absolute Error (MAE) after choosing appropriate hyperparameters; this approach is expected to improve the performance of battery management systems and battery utilization efficiency in the field of electric vehicles.
Clinical and instrumental features of vertebrogenic lumbosacral pathology in machine milking operators
Authors:   Ufa Institute of Occupational Health and Human Ecology, the city of Ufa, Russia, Vagapova D. M. , Gallyamova S. A. ,   Ufa Institute of Occupational Health and Human Ecology, the city of Ufa, Russia, Shaikhlislamova E. R. ,   Ufa Institute of Occupational Health and Human Ecology, the city of Ufa, Russia; Bashkir State Medical University, Ufa, Russia, Gareeva L. F. ,   Ufa Institute of Occupational Health and Human Ecology, the city of Ufa, Russia, Masyagutova L. M. ,   Ufa Institute of Occupational Health and Human Ecology, the city of Ufa, Russia; Bashkir State Medical University, Ufa, Russia
Published: November 2023

In the structure of occupational pathology, female workers of modern agricultural production, along with diseases of the musculoskeletal system and soft tissues of the upper extremities, vertebrogenic lesions of the lumbosacral level have become more often diagnosed. The aim of the study was to study the features of vertebrogenic pathology of the lumbosacral region with the analysis of radiological and electroneuromyographic data in machine milking operators of the Republic of Bashkortostan. The following results were obtained. On radiographs of the lumbosacral spine, degenerative-dystrophic changes in the form of a decrease in the height of discs, spondylosis, spondyloarthrosis were noted in machine milking operators. Electroneuromyographic criteria revealed a decrease in amplitude and velocity parameters of conduction along the peripheral nerves of the lower extremities. The revealed changes in vertebrogenic lumbosacral pathology in the examined patients make it possible to ensure timely diagnosis and prevention of production-related pathology with the formation of rational schemes of therapeutic and recreational measures.
The Cooperation Between EU and NATO in Response to Hybrid Threats.
A Retrospective Analysis from the Institutionalist Perspective
Authors: Filipec Ondřej
Published: November 2023

The annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the violation of the territorial integrity of Ukraine by the Russian Federation provided new impetus for the EU and NATO to develop and later also intensify cooperation in hybrid threats. This unique process, that happens between two actors who have different histories, aims or membership structures, is analysed from the institutionalist perspective, which served as a framework to understand the development. The main aim of the article is to assess interinstitutional cooperation between the EU and NATO in the area of hybrid threats: especially in the area of capacity building, strategic communication, crisis management, counterterrorism or WMD use, and civil protection. The author concludes that both the EU and NATO successfully developed cooperation in hybrid threats and created mechanisms that enable similar perceptions of the threats and better coordination of the responses. The article serves merely as an exploratory study dedicated to the development of cooperation between the EU and NATO in this challenging area in the period between 2014 and 2022.