bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Modulator Therapies on Nutritional Risk Index in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yalçın Nadir , Akman Esen Deniz , Karcıoğlu Oğuz , Allegaert Karel , Demirkan Kutay , Damadoğlu Ebru , Kalyoncu Ali Fuat
Published: June 2024

Background: Modulator therapies improve weight and body mass index (BMI) in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. We aimed to compare the nutritional risk index (NRI) in adult CF patients receiving modulator (MT) or only non-modulator (conventional) therapies (non-MT). Methods: A single-center prospective cohort study was conducted between June and December 2023. The NRI based on weight gain and albumin was calculated at beginning and end of a 12-week period in both groups. This design was pragmatic, since it was based on individual patient access to MT for 12 weeks. Results: In total, 107 patients were included [mean (SD) age: 23.85 (4.98) years, 54.7% male, 46.7% MT]. In the MT group, mean (SD) weight (kg) and albumin (g/dL) increased significantly [changes: +3.09 (2.74) and +0.17 (0.37); p < 0.001]. In the non-MT group, weight and albumin decreased significantly [changes: −0.99 (1.73) and −0.12 (0.30); p < 0.001]. Compared to the MT group, baseline mean (SD) NRI in the non-MT group was significantly higher [100.65 (11.80) vs. 104.10 (10.10); p = 0.044]. At the end of the 12 weeks, mean (SD) NRI in the MT group was higher than in the non-MT group [104.18 (10.40) vs. 102.58 (12.39); p = 0.145]. In the MT group, the NRI category improved in 22 (44%), and worsened in 3 (6%) patients (p < 0.001). In the non-MT group, the NRI category improved in 2 (3.5%), and worsened in 10 (17.5%) patients (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This is the first study reporting on a positive effect of MT on NRIs, based on weight gain and albumin. Personalized nutrition and routine follow-up of adults with CF based on NRI is recommended prior to MT initiation.
Marginal Zinc Deficiency Promotes Pancreatic Islet Enlargement While Zinc Supplementation Improves the Pancreatic Insulin Response in Zucker Diabetic Fatty Rats
Authors: Rech Leslie , Zahradka Peter , Taylor Carla G.
Published: June 2024

Zinc deficiency has been associated with the worsening of diabetes while zinc supplementation has been proposed to ameliorate diabetes. This study examined the effects of marginal zinc deficiency (MZD) and zinc supplementation (ZS) on obesity, glycemic control, pancreatic islets, hepatic steatosis and renal function of Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. Male ZDF rats were fed an MZD, zinc control (ZC) or ZS diet (4, 30 and 300 mg Zn/kg diet, respectively), and lean Zucker rats were fed a ZC diet for 8 weeks. MZD and ZS did not alter body weight or whole-body composition in ZDF rats. MZD ZDF rats had reduced zinc concentrations in the femur and pancreas, a greater number of enlarged pancreatic islets and a diminished response to an oral glucose load based on a 1.8-fold greater incremental area-under-the-curve (AUC) for glucose compared to ZC ZDF. ZS ZDF rats had elevated serum, femur and pancreatic zinc concentrations, unchanged pancreatic parameters and a 50% reduction in the AUC for insulin compared to ZC ZDF rats, suggesting greater insulin sensitivity. Dietary zinc intake did not alter hepatic steatosis, creatinine clearance, or levels of proteins that contribute to insulin signaling, inflammation or zinc transport in epididymal fat. Potential adverse effects of ZS were suggested by reduced hepatic copper concentrations and elevated serum urea compared to ZC ZDF rats. In summary, ZS improved the pancreatic insulin response but not the glucose handling. In contrast, reduced zinc status in ZDF rats led to impaired glucose tolerance and a compensatory increase in the number and size of pancreatic islets which could lead to β-cell exhaustion.
The Metabolic and Endocrine Effects of a 12-Week Allulose-Rich Diet
Authors: Cayabyab Kevin B. , Shin Marley J. , Heimuli Micah S. , Kim Iris J. , D’Agostino Dominic P. , Johnson Richard J. , Koutnik Andrew P. , Bellissimo Nick , Diamond David M. , Norwitz Nicholas G. , Arroyo Juan A. , Reynolds Paul R. , Bikman Benjamin T.
Published: June 2024

The global rise in type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity necessitates innovative dietary interventions. This study investigates the effects of allulose, a rare sugar shown to reduce blood glucose, in a rat model of diet-induced obesity and T2D. Over 12 weeks, we hypothesized that allulose supplementation would improve body weight, insulin sensitivity, and glycemic control. Our results showed that allulose mitigated the adverse effects of high-fat, high-sugar diets, including reduced body weight gain and improved insulin resistance. The allulose group exhibited lower food consumption and increased levels of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), enhancing glucose regulation and appetite control. Additionally, allulose prevented liver triglyceride accumulation and promoted mitochondrial uncoupling in adipose tissue. These findings suggest that allulose supplementation can improve metabolic health markers, making it a promising dietary component for managing obesity and T2D. Further research is needed to explore the long-term benefits and mechanisms of allulose in metabolic disease prevention and management. This study supports the potential of allulose as a safe and effective intervention for improving metabolic health in the context of dietary excess.
Novel Proteome Targets Marking Insulin Resistance in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Warmbrunn Moritz V. , Bahrar Harsh , de Clercq Nicolien C. , Koopen Annefleur M. , de Groot Pieter F. , Rutten Joost , Joosten Leo A. B. , Kootte Ruud S. , Bouter Kristien E. C. , ter Horst Kasper W. , Hartstra Annick V. , Serlie Mireille J. , Soeters Maarten R. , van Raalte Daniel H. , Davids Mark , Levin Evgeni , Herrema Hilde , Riksen Niels P. , Netea Mihai G. , Groen Albert K. , Nieuwdorp Max
Published: June 2024

Context/Objective: In order to better understand which metabolic differences are related to insulin resistance in metabolic syndrome (MetSyn), we used hyperinsulinemic–euglycemic (HE) clamps in individuals with MetSyn and related peripheral insulin resistance to circulating biomarkers. Design/Methods: In this cross-sectional study, HE-clamps were performed in treatment-naive men (n = 97) with MetSyn. Subjects were defined as insulin-resistant based on the rate of disappearance (Rd). Machine learning models and conventional statistics were used to identify biomarkers of insulin resistance. Findings were replicated in a cohort with n = 282 obese men and women with (n = 156) and without (n = 126) MetSyn. In addition to this, the relation between biomarkers and adipose tissue was assessed by nuclear magnetic resonance imaging. Results: Peripheral insulin resistance is marked by changes in proteins related to inflammatory processes such as IL-1 and TNF-receptor and superfamily members. These proteins can distinguish between insulin-resistant and insulin-sensitive individuals (AUC = 0.72 ± 0.10) with MetSyn. These proteins were also associated with IFG, liver fat (rho 0.36, p = 1.79 × 10−9) and visceral adipose tissue (rho = 0.35, p = 6.80 × 10−9). Interestingly, these proteins had the strongest association in the MetSyn subgroup compared to individuals without MetSyn. Conclusions: MetSyn associated with insulin resistance is characterized by protein changes related to body fat content, insulin signaling and pro-inflammatory processes. These findings provide novel targets for intervention studies and should be the focus of future in vitro and in vivo studies.
Echinococcus multilocularis and Other Intestinal Parasites of the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) from the Pomerania Region, Northern Poland
Authors: Pilarczyk Bogumiła , Tomza-Marciniak Agnieszka , Pilarczyk Renata , Bąkowska Małgorzata , Rząd Izabella , Stapf Agata , Felska-Błaszczyk Lidia , Tylkowska Agnieszka , Seremak Beata
Published: June 2024

The aim of the study was to determine the species composition of the intestinal parasite fauna of foxes from the Pomerania region, with a particular emphasis on helminth species considered dangerous to humans, and to determine their prevalence and intensity of infection. In total, 165 digestive systems from foxes inhabiting the Pomeranian region were examined. The prevalence of intestinal parasites among the studied foxes was 61.8%. Our findings confirm that foxes in Pomerania carry various parasites, some of which pose a direct threat to human health. As such, constant monitoring of their infestation is essential. Particular attention should be paid to parasite species with potential for transmission to humans, such as Echinococcus multilocularis, Alaria alata and Toxocara canis, whose respective prevalence was found to be 10.9%, 17.6% and 28.5%.
Dexamethasone-Induced Insulin Resistance Attenuation by Oral Sulfur–Oxidovanadium(IV) Complex Treatment in Mice
Authors: Batista Eucilene K. , Lima Lidiane M. A. de , Gomes Dayane A. , Crans Debbie C. , Silva Wagner E. , Belian Mônica F. , Lira Eduardo C.
Published: June 2024

Vanadium compounds are known to exert insulin-enhancing activity, normalize elevated blood glucose levels in diabetic subjects, and show significant activity in models of insulin resistance (IR). Faced with insulin resistance, the present work investigates the antidiabetic performance of a known oxidovanadium(IV)-based coordination compound—[VIVO(octd)]—and effects associated with glucocorticoid-induced insulin resistance in mice. The effects of [VIVO(octd)] were evaluated in a female Swiss mice model of insulin resistance induced by seven days of dexamethasone treatment in comparison with groups receiving metformin treatment. Biological assays such as hematological, TyG index, hepatic lipids, glycogen, oxidative stress in the liver, and oral glucose tolerance tests were evaluated. [VIVO(octd)] was characterized with 51V NMR, infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), electronic absorption spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry (ESI–FT–MS). The [VIVO(octd)] oral treatment (50 mg/kg) had an antioxidant effect, reducing 50% of fast blood glucose (p < 0.05) and 25% of the TyG index, which is used to estimate insulin resistance (p < 0.05), compared with the non-treated group. The oxidovanadium–sulfur compound is a promising antihyperglycemic therapeutic, including in cases aggravated by insulin resistance induced by glucocorticoid treatment.
Evidence That a Peptide-Drug/p53 Gene Complex Promotes Cognate Gene Expression and Inhibits the Viability of Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Neves Ana , Albuquerque Tânia , Faria Rúben , Santos Cecília R. A. , Vivès Eric , Boisguérin Prisca , Carneiro Diana , Bruno Daniel F. , Pavlaki Maria D. , Loureiro Susana , Sousa Ângela , Costa Diana
Published: June 2024

Glioblastoma multiform (GBM) is considered the deadliest brain cancer. Conventional therapies are followed by poor patient survival outcomes, so novel and more efficacious therapeutic strategies are imperative to tackle this scourge. Gene therapy has emerged as an exciting and innovative tool in cancer therapy. Its combination with chemotherapy has significantly improved therapeutic outcomes. In line with this, our team has developed temozolomide–transferrin (Tf) peptide (WRAP5)/p53 gene nanometric complexes that were revealed to be biocompatible with non-cancerous cells and in a zebrafish model and were able to efficiently target and internalize into SNB19 and U373 glioma cell lines. The transfection of these cells, mediated by the formulated peptide-drug/gene complexes, resulted in p53 expression. The combined action of the anticancer drug with p53 supplementation in cancer cells enhances cytotoxicity, which was correlated to apoptosis activation through quantification of caspase-3 activity. In addition, increased caspase-9 levels revealed that the intrinsic or mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis was implicated. This assumption was further evidenced by the presence, in glioma cells, of Bax protein overexpression—a core regulator of this apoptotic pathway. Our findings demonstrated the great potential of peptide TMZ/p53 co-delivery complexes for cellular transfection, p53 expression, and apoptosis induction, holding promising therapeutic value toward glioblastoma.
Improving the Antimicrobial Potency of Berberine for Endodontic Canal Irrigation Using Polymeric Nanoparticles
Authors: Marques Célia , Grenho Liliana , Fernandes Maria Helena , Costa Lima Sofia A.
Published: June 2024

To address the challenges posed by biofilm presence and achieve a substantial reduction in bacterial load within root canals during endodontic treatment, various irrigants, including nanoparticle suspensions, have been recommended. Berberine (BBR), a natural alkaloid derived from various plants, has demonstrated potential applications in dentistry treatments due to its prominent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. This study aimed to produce and characterize a novel polymeric nanoparticle of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) loaded with berberine and evaluate its antimicrobial activity against relevant endodontic pathogens, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans. Additionally, its cytocompatibility using gingival fibroblasts was assessed. The polymeric nanoparticle was prepared by the nanoprecipitation method. Physicochemical characterization revealed spheric nanoparticles around 140 nm with ca, −6 mV of surface charge, which was unaffected by the presence of BBR. The alkaloid was successfully incorporated at an encapsulation efficiency of 77% and the designed nanoparticles were stable upon 20 weeks of storage at 4 °C and 25 °C. Free BBR reduced planktonic growth at ≥125 μg/mL. Upon incorporation into PLGA nanoparticles, 20 μg/mL of [BBR]-loaded nanoparticles lead to a significant reduction, after 1 h of contact, of both planktonic bacteria and yeast. Sessile cells within biofilms were also considered. At 30 and 40 μg/mL, [BBR]-loaded PLGA nanoparticles reduced the viability of the sessile endodontic bacteria, upon 24 h of exposure. The cytotoxicity of BBR-loaded nanoparticles to oral fibroblasts was negligible. The novel berberine-loaded polymeric nanoparticles hold potential as a promising supplementary approach in the treatment of endodontic infections.
Genus Echinophora—Biological Activity, Chemical Composition, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Ivanova Stanislava , Dyankov Stanislav , Ardasheva Rayna , Ivanov Kalin
Published: June 2024

Species belonging to the genus Echinophora (Apiaceae) have been used by humanity since ancient times as flavoring agents, preservatives, and medicines for the treatment of a broad spectrum of conditions, including respiratory, digestive and kidney disorders, fungi infections, wounds, and gastric ulcers. Phytochemical studies on this botanical genus mainly investigate the essential oil composition and reveal the species as a rich source of volatile compounds, including monoterpenes and phenylpropanoids. Among the non-volatile secondary metabolites, flavonoids, coumarins, phenolic acids, phytosterols, and polyacetylenes have been identified. Pharmacological studies revealed Echinophora extracts and essential oils exhibit different biological properties, including antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, insecticidal, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities. However, compared to other genera, the biological activity and chemical diversity of this genus are not well studied. In future decades, it is highly likely that the small genus Echinophora will play an important role in drug discovery and drug development.
Pharmaceutical Potential Evaluation of Damask Rose By-Products from Volatile Oil Extraction
Authors: Charoimek Nutthawut , Sunanta Piyachat , Tangpao Tibet , Suksathan Ratchuporn , Chanmahasathien Wisinee , Sirilun Sasithorn , Hua Kuo-Feng , Chung Hsiao-Hang , Sommano Sarana Rose , Junmahasathien Taepin
Published: June 2024

Despite its well-known fragrance in cosmetics and medicine, a complete understanding of the phytochemical properties within by-products generated during commercial extraction of Damask rose remains elusive. Cultivated in Thailand for their essential oil, Damask rose varieties, including Mon Dang Prasert, Mon Klai Kangwon, and Bishop’s Castle, share phenylethyl alcohol (57.62–61.11%) as the dominant component, which is responsible for their characteristic floral, sweet, rosy, and bready aroma. Through a circular hydro-distillation process, three different by-product fractions, including distilled water (D), hydrosol (H), and rose dreg (R), were recovered. Subsequently, we assessed their pharmaceutical potential, including the antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-melanogenesis properties of these residual substances. The H fraction displayed the highest total phenolics (10.56 mgGAE/g) and flavonoids (6.93 mgCE/g) and significant antioxidant activity (IC50, 0.67–0.97 µg/mL). While the H fraction inhibited melanin formation at 50 μg/mL, the R fraction of MK (100 μg/mL) surprisingly promoted melanin production in B16-F10 cells. Nevertheless, the antimicrobial assay against Staphylococcus aureus, Cutibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans revealed no antimicrobial activity in any fraction. Murine macrophage stimulation (J774A.1) with lipopolysaccharide revealed no anti-inflammatory effects from the by-products, as measured by IL-1β production. In summary, the H fraction exhibited the highest level of phenolic and flavonoid contents, as well as antioxidant and anti-melanogenesis activities. Therefore, this by-product is a desirable choice for the development of value-added products such as functional food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products.
Enhancing Polymer Blend Compatibility with Linear and Complex Star Copolymer Architectures: A Monte Carlo Simulation Study with the Bond Fluctuation Model
Authors: Freire Juan J. , Vlahos Costas
Published: June 2024

A Monte Carlo study of the compatibilization of A/B polymer blends has been performed using the bond fluctuation model. The considered compatibilizers are copolymer molecules composed of A and B blocks. Different types of copolymer structures have been included, namely, linear diblock and 4-block alternating copolymers, star block copolymers, miktoarm stars, and zipper stars. Zipper stars are composed of two arms of diblock copolymers arranged in alternate order (AB and BA) from the central unit, along with two homogeneous arms of A and B units. The compatibilization performance has been characterized by analyzing the equilibration of repulsion energy, the simulated scattering intensity obtained with opposite refractive indices for A and B, the profiles along a coordinate axis, the radial distribution functions, and the compatibilizer aggregation numbers. According to the results, linear alternate block copolymers, star block copolymers, and zipper stars exhibit significantly better compatibilization, with zipper stars showing slightly but consistently better performance.
Hydrophobic Modification of Pectin Aerogels via Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Effraimopoulou Eleni , Jaxel Julien , Budtova Tatiana , Rigacci Arnaud
Published: June 2024

Pectin aerogels, with very low density (around 0.1 g cm−3) and high specific surface area (up to 600 m2 g−1), are excellent thermal insulation materials since their thermal conductivity is below that of air at ambient conditions (0.025 W m−1 K−1). However, due to their intrinsic hydrophilicity, pectin aerogels collapse when in contact with water vapor, losing superinsulating properties. In this work, first, pectin aerogels were made, and the influence of the different process parameters on the materials’ structure and properties were studied. All neat pectin aerogels had a low density (0.04–0.11 g cm−1), high specific surface area (308–567 m2 g−1), and very low thermal conductivity (0.015–0.023 W m−1 K−1). Then, pectin aerogels were hydrophobized via the chemical vapor deposition of methyltrimethoxysilane using different reaction durations (2 to 24 h). The influence of hydrophobization on material properties, especially on thermal conductivity, was recorded by conditioning in a climate chamber (25 °C, 80% relative humidity). Hydrophobization resulted in the increase in thermal conductivity compared to that of neat pectin aerogels. MTMS deposition for 16 h was efficient for hydrophobizing pectin aerogels in moist environment (contact angle 115°) and stabilizing material properties with no fluctuation in thermal conductivity (0.030 W m−1 K−1) and density for the testing period of 8 months.
Isolation and Characterization of Spherical Cellulose Nanocrystals Extracted from the Higher Cellulose Yield of the Jenfokie Plant: Morphological, Structural, and Thermal Properties
Authors: Wossine Solomon Estifo , Thothadri Ganesh , Tufa Habtamu Beri , Tucho Wakshum Mekonnen , Murtaza Adil , Edacherian Abhilash , Sayeed Ahmed Gulam Mohammed
Published: June 2024

Scholars are looking for solutions to substitute hazardous substances in manufacturing nanocellulose from bio-sources to preserve the world’s growing environmental consciousness. During the past decade, there has been a notable increase in the use of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) in modern science and nanotechnology advancements because of their abundance, biocompatibility, biodegradability, renewability, and superior mechanical properties. Spherical cellulose nanocrystals (J–CNCs) were successfully synthesized from Jenfokie micro-cellulose (J–MC) via sulfuric acid hydrolysis in this study. The yield (up to 58.6%) and specific surface area (up to 99.64 m2/g) of J–CNCs were measured. A field emission gun–scanning electron microscope (FEG-SEM) was used to assess the morphology of the J–MC and J–CNC samples. The spherical shape nanoparticles with a mean nano-size of 34 nm for J–CNCs were characterized using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to determine the crystallinity index and crystallinity size of J–CNCs, up to 98.4% and 6.13 nm, respectively. The chemical composition was determined using a Fourier transform infrared (FT–IR) spectroscope. Thermal characterization of thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), derivative thermogravimetry (DTG), and differential thermal analysis (DTA) was conducted to identify the thermal stability and cellulose pyrolysis behavior of both J–MC and J–CNC samples. The thermal analysis of J–CNC indicated lower thermal stability than J–MC. It was noted that J–CNC showed higher levels of crystallinity and larger crystallite sizes than J–MC, indicating a successful digestion and an improvement of the main crystalline structure of cellulose. The X-ray diffraction spectra and TEM images were utilized to establish that the nanocrystals’ size was suitable. The novelty of this work is the synthesis of spherical nanocellulose with better properties, chosen with a rich source of cellulose from an affordable new plant (studied for the first time) by stepwise water-retted extraction, continuing from our previous study.
Electrowriting of SU-8 Microfibers
Authors: Sandoval Salaiza Diego Armando , Valsangiacomo Nico , Dinç Niyazi Ulas , Yildirim Mustafa , Madrid-Wolff Jorge , Bertsch Arnaud , Jiguet Sebastien , Dalton Paul D. , Brugger Juergen , Moser Christophe
Published: June 2024

As microfiber-based additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, melt electrowriting (MEW) and solution electrowriting (SEW) have demonstrated efficacy with more biomedically relevant materials. By processing SU-8 resin using MEW and SEW techniques, a material with substantially different mechanical, thermal, and optical properties than that typically processed is introduced. SU-8 polymer is temperature sensitive and requires the devising of a specific heating protocol to be properly processed. Smooth-surfaced microfibers resulted from MEW of SU8 for a short period (from 30 to 90 min), which provides the greatest control and, thus, reproducibility of the printed microfibers. This investigation explores various parameters influencing the electrowriting process, printing conditions, and post-processing to optimize the fabrication of intricate 3D structures. This work demonstrates the controlled generation of straight filaments and complex multi-layered architectures, which were characterized by brightfield, darkfield, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This research opens new avenues for the design and development of 3D-printed photonic systems by leveraging the properties of SU-8 after both MEW and SEW processing.
Bioinspired Dopamine and N-Oxide-Based Zwitterionic Polymer Brushes for Fouling Resistance Surfaces
Authors: Zhou Zhen , Shi Qinghong
Published: June 2024

Biofouling is a great challenge for engineering material in medical-, marine-, and pharmaceutical-related applications. In this study, a novel trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO)–analog monomer, 3-(2-methylacrylamido)-N,N-dimethylpropylamine N-oxide (MADMPAO), was synthesized and applied for the grafting of poly(MADMPAO) (pMPAO) brushes on quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) chips by the combination of bio-inspired poly-dopamine (pDA) and surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization technology. The result of ion adsorption exhibited that a sequential pDA and pMPAO arrangement from the chip surface had different characteristics from a simple pDA layer. Ion adsorption on pMPAO-grafted chips was greatly inhibited at low salt concentrations of 1 and 10 mmol/L due to strong surface hydration in the presence of charged N+ and O− of zwitterionic pMPAO brushes on the outer layer on the chip surface, well known as the “anti-polyelectrolyte” effect. During BSA adsorption, pMPAO grafting also led to a marked decrease in frequency shift, indicating great inhibition of protein adsorption. It was attributed to weaker BSA-pMPAO interaction. In this study, the Au@pDA-4-pMPAO chip with the highest coating concentration of DA kept stable dissipation in BSA adsorption, signifying that the chip had a good antifouling property. The research provided a novel monomer for zwitterionic polymer and demonstrated the potential of pMPAO brushes in the development and modification of antifouling materials.
Plasma Surface Treatment and Application of Polyvinyl Alcohol/Polylactic Acid Electrospun Fibrous Hemostatic Membrane
Authors: Ge Xiaotian , Zhang Li , Wei Xuanhe , Long Xi , Han Yingchao
Published: June 2024

In this study, an improved PVA/PLA fibrous hemostatic membrane was prepared by electrospinning technology combined with air plasma modification. The plasma treatment was used to modify PLA to enhance the interlayer bonding between the PVA and PLA fibrous membranes first, then modify the PVA to improve the hemostatic capacity. The surfaces of the PLA and PVA were oxidized after air plasma treatment, the fibrous diameter was reduced, and roughness was increased. Plasma treatment enhanced the interfacial bond strength of PLA/PVA composite fibrous membrane, and PLA acted as a good mechanical support. Plasma-treated PVA/PLA composite membranes showed an increasing liquid-enrichment capacity of 350% and shortened the coagulation time to 258 s. The hemostatic model of the liver showed that the hemostatic ability of plasma-treated PVA/PLA composite membranes was enhanced by 79% compared to untreated PVA membranes, with a slight improvement over commercially available collagen. The results showed that the plasma-treated PVA/PLA fibers were able to achieve more effective hemostasis, which provides a new strategy for improving the hemostatic performance of hemostatic materials.
Assembly of Hollow Yttrium Oxide Spheres from Nano-Sized Yttrium Oxide for Advanced Passive Radiative Cooling Materials
Authors: Yu Jeehoon , Kwon Daeyul , Jeon Heegyeom , Yoo Youngjae
Published: June 2024

This study presents significant advancements in passive radiative cooling (PRC), achieved using assembled hollow yttrium oxide spherical particles (AHYOSPs). We developed PRC films with enhanced optical properties by synthesizing micro-sized hollow Y2O3 particles and integrating them into a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix. The findings revealed that AHYOSPs achieved a remarkable solar reflectance of 73.72% and an emissivity of 91.75%, significantly outperforming nano-sized yttrium oxide (NYO) and baseline PDMS. Field tests demonstrated that the AHYOSPs maintained their lowest temperature during daylight, confirming their superior cooling efficiency. Additionally, theoretical calculations using MATLAB indicated that the cooling capacity of AHYOSPs reached 103.77 W/m2, representing a substantial improvement over NYO and robustly validating the proposed nanoparticle assembly strategy. These results highlight the potential of structurally controlled particles to revolutionize PRC technologies, thereby offering a path toward more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly cooling solutions.
Identification of Oil-Loving Cupriavidus necator BM3-1 for Polyhydroxyalkanoate Production and Assessing Contribution of Exopolysaccharide for Vegetable Oil Utilization
Authors: Shin Yuni , Kim Hyun Joong , Choi Tae-Rim , Oh Suk Jin , Kim Suwon , Lee Yeda , Choi Suhye , Oh Jinok , Kim So Yeon , Lee Young Sik , Choi Young Heon , Bhatia Shashi Kant , Yang Yung-Hun
Published: June 2024

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) have received attention owing to their biodegradability and biocompatibility, with studies exploring PHA-producing bacterial strains. As vegetable oil provides carbon and monomer precursors for poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (P(3HB-co-3HHx)), oil-utilizing strains may facilitate PHA production. Herein, Cupriavidus necator BM3-1, which produces 11.1 g/L of PHB with 5% vegetable oil, was selected among various novel Cupriavidus necator strains. This strain exhibited higher preference for vegetable oils over sugars, with soybean oil and tryptone determined to be optimal sources for PHA production. BM3-1 produced 33.9 g/L of exopolysaccharides (EPS), which was three-fold higher than the amount produced by H16 (10.1 g/L). EPS exhibited 59.7% of emulsification activity (EI24), higher than that of SDS and of EPS from H16 with soybean oil. To evaluate P(3HB-co-3HHx) production from soybean oil, BM3-1 was engineered with P(3HB-co-3HHx) biosynthetic genes (phaCRa, phaARe, and phaJPa). BM3-1/pPhaCJ produced 3.5 mol% of 3HHx and 37.1 g/L PHA. BM3-1/pCB81 (phaCAJ) produced 32.8 g/L PHA, including 5.9 mol% 3HHx. Physical and thermal analyses revealed that P(3HB-co-5.9 mol% 3HHx) was better than PHB. Collectively, we identified a novel strain with high vegetable oil utilization capacity for the production of EPS, with the option to engineer the strain for P(3HB-co-3HHx).
Prediction of Short- to Long-Term Cyclic Deformation Behavior and Fatigue Life of Polymers
Authors: Barriere Thierry , Carbillet Stani , Gabrion Xavier , Holopainen Sami
Published: June 2024

The prediction of mechanical behavior and fatigue life is of major importance for design and for replacing costly and time-consuming tests. The proposed approach for polymers is a combination of a fatigue model and a governing constitutive model, which is formulated using the Haward–Thackray viscoplastic model (1968) and is capable of capturing large deformations. The fatigue model integrates high- and low-cycle fatigue and is based on the concept of damage evolution and a moving endurance surface in the stress space, therefore memorizing the load history without requesting vague cycle-counting approaches. The proposed approach is applicable for materials in which the fatigue development is ductile, i.e., damage during the formation of microcracks controls most of the fatigue life (up to 90%). Moreover, damage evolution shows a certain asymptote at the ultimate of the low-cycle fatigue, a second asymptote at the ultimate of the high-cycle fatigue (which is near zero), and a curvature of how rapidly the transition between the asymptotes is reached. An interesting matter is that similar to metals, many polymers satisfy these constraints. Therefore, all the model parameters for fatigue can be given in terms of the Basquin and Coffin–Manson model parameters, i.e., satisfying well-defined parameters.
Three-Dimensional Thermo–Chemo–Mechanical Coupled Curing Analysis for the Filament Wound Composite Shell
Authors: Lu Linjiao , Huan Shengsheng , Lu Mengkai , Shen Tao , Tian Yanhui , Hu Jianying , Du Jianke , Zhang Minghua
Published: June 2024

Carbon fiber resin-based composite materials are widely employed in the manufacturing of composite shells. During the curing process, the temperature gradients and cure degree gradients make it easy to generate thermal strains in both carbon fibers and resin, with the resin experiencing cure shrinkage strain due to the curing reaction, ultimately leading to residual stresses and strains. In this paper, a three-dimensional thermo–chemo–mechanical coupled curing model of the composite shell was established based on a resin test, and the changes of temperature, curing degree, residual stress, and strain during the solidification of the composite shell were investigated. First, the curing property parameters and elastic modulus of HCM-2184 resin were obtained through a curing dynamic test and a tensile test. Then, considering the heat release and shrinkage reaction of solidification, a coupled thermo–chemo–mechanical curing model was developed with the CHILE (α) elastic model, and the curing process of the composite shell was simulated numerically. The results show that the resin used in the test belongs to the autocatalytic reaction. For thin composite shells, the heat accumulation inside the shell during curing is not obvious. During the curing process, the curing shrinkage behavior of the resin is an important factor for the generation of residual stress and residual strain.
The Missional Power of the Christ-Hymn
Authors: Keown Mark J.
Published: June 2024

Discussions of Philippians 2:6–11 consider whether it is intended kerygmatically or ethically. Kerygmatic proponents consider that Paul inserted an early hymn to narrate the story of Christ’s coming and his exaltation to encourage the worship of Christ. Ethical readers argue that the hymn aims to shape readers’ ethical posture. Others argue that both ideas are in play. This essay argues that the passage has kerygmatic power. It declares the story of Christ’s coming, self-emptying and humbling, incarnation, death, exaltation, and cosmic lordship. However, it also presents Christ as the ultimate ethical paradigm. It argues, however, that the “ethical” reading is reductionistic unless explained in the direction of social relationships (socioethically) and mission (missioethically). The passage’s missional power is then clarified. First, the broader context in the first century is missional and evangelistic. Second, the “fabric” of the letter urges engagement in gospel proclamation. Third, the movement of the passage is missional, and it succinctly proclaims the gospel of Christ. Fourth, the purpose of Christ’s exaltation is universal submission supposing the proclamation of his lordship. Finally, the hymn climaxes with worship, the end goal of all missions. As such, the hymn should be read through a missional and evangelistic lens as it invites readers to participate in God’s goal of universal submission to Jesus Christ as Lord.
The History of the Myeongjin School (1906–1910): A Critical Examination of Korean Buddhism’s First Modern Educational Institution within the Pre-Colonial Context
Authors: Park Cheonghwan , Kim Kyungrae
Published: June 2024

During the operation of the Myeongjin School, it not only employed many leading Buddhist progressives, but graduated key Buddhist reformers. Overcoming conservative opposition within the Korean Buddhist community, during its brief operation the Myeongjin School would open dozens of branches at temples throughout Korea, prompting a proliferating modern education throughout its Buddhist community. Over the century, the institute founded as the Myeongjin School suffered repeated closures during Korea’s Japanese Annexation only to emerge from the Korean War as Dongguk University Seoul. As Korea’s oldest and largest Buddhist university, Dongguk has produced over 350,000 graduates and, despite transitioning to a more secular approach to education, it remains a leading center for monastic education, Buddhist studies, and intellectual culture. This article examines, in detail, the origins, founding, and operation of the Myeongjin School within the dynamic political and religious context of Korea’s early modern period, in addition to the school’s impact, subsequent history, and legacy.
Between Wine and Tea: A Discussion Based on Master Taixu’s Use of Dual Imagery
Authors: Xu Xiaoxiao
Published: June 2024

The imagery of wine and tea is important in classical and modern Chinese poetry, with an intricate relationship between the two especially evident in the work of Taixu 太虛 (1890–1947), a prominent poet–monk in 20th-century China. Taixu’s attitude toward wine—a drink that is deeply rooted in Chinese culture—evolves significantly over time, from initial approval to eventual condemnation due to its detrimental effects on both personal health and society. Nevertheless, it continues to feature prominently in his poetry. The same is true of tea, which Taixu often uses to evoke either Buddhist study or his own healthy lifestyle. This article explores this and other complex meanings in Taixu’s poems, such as his association of wine with knights and tea with hermits. It also discusses how he achieves a delicate balance between the two beverages, sometimes employing both types of imagery in a single poem—a literary innovation that helped to establish his reputation as a central figure in modern Chinese poetry.
Deep Learning Hyperspectral Pansharpening on Large-Scale PRISMA Dataset
Authors: Zini Simone , Barbato Mirko Paolo , Piccoli Flavio , Napoletano Paolo
Published: June 2024

Hyperspectral pansharpening is crucial for the improvement of the usability of images in various applications. However, it remains underexplored due to a scarcity of data. The primary goal of pansharpening is to enhance the spatial resolution of hyperspectral images by reconstructing missing spectral information without compromising consistency with the original data. This paper addresses the data gap by presenting a new hyperspectral dataset specifically designed for pansharpening and the evaluation of several deep learning strategies using this dataset. The new dataset has two crucial features that make it invaluable for deep learning hyperspectral pansharpening research. (1) It presents the highest cardinality of images in the state of the art, making it the first statistically relevant dataset for hyperspectral pansharpening evaluation, and (2) it includes a wide variety of scenes, ensuring robust generalization capabilities for various approaches. The data, collected by the ASI PRISMA satellite, cover about 262,200 km2 and their heterogeneity is ensured by a random sampling of the Earth’s surface. The analysis of the deep learning methods consists in the adaptation of these approaches to the PRISMA hyperspectral data and the quantitative and qualitative evaluation of their performance in this new scenario. The investigation included two settings: Reduced Resolution (RR) to evaluate the techniques in a controlled environment and Full Resolution (FR) for a real-world evaluation. In addition, for the sake of completeness, we have also included machine-learning-free approaches in both scenarios. Our comprehensive analysis reveals that data-driven neural network methods significantly outperform traditional approaches, demonstrating a superior adaptability and performance in hyperspectral pansharpening under both RR and FR protocols.
Detecting Melt Pond Onset on Landfast Arctic Sea Ice Using a Dual C-Band Satellite Approach
Authors: Maknun Syeda Shahida , Geldsetzer Torsten , Nandan Vishnu , Yackel John , Mahmud Mallik
Published: June 2024

The presence of melt ponds on the surface of Arctic Sea ice affects its albedo, thermal properties, and overall melting rate; thus, the detection of melt pond onset is of significant importance for understanding the Arctic’s changing climate. This study investigates the utility of a novel method for detecting the onset of melt ponds on sea ice using a satellite-based, dual-sensor C-band approach, whereby Sentinel-1 provides horizontally polarized (HH) data and Advanced SCATterometer (ASCAT) provides vertically polarized (VV) data. The co-polarized ratio (VV/HH) is used to detect the presence of melt ponds on landfast sea ice in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago in 2017 and 2018. ERA-5 air temperature and wind speed re-analysis datasets are used to establish the VV/HH threshold for pond onset detection, which have been further validated by Landsat-8 reflectance. The co-polarized ratio threshold of three standard deviations from the late winter season (April) mean co-pol ratio values are used for assessing pond onset detection associated with the air temperature and wind speed data, along with visual observations from Sentinel-1 and cloud-free Sentinel-2 imagery. In 2017, the pond onset detection rates were 70.59% for FYI and 92.3% for MYI. Results suggest that this method, because of its dual-platform application, has potential for providing large-area coverage estimation of the timing of sea ice melt pond onset using different earth observation satellites.
Predicting Winter Wheat Yield with Dual-Year Spectral Fusion, Bayesian Wisdom, and Cross-Environmental Validation
Authors: Li Zongpeng , Cheng Qian , Chen Li , Zhang Bo , Guo Shuzhe , Zhou Xinguo , Chen Zhen
Published: June 2024

Winter wheat is an important grain that plays a crucial role in agricultural production and ensuring food security. Its yield directly impacts the stability and security of the global food supply. The accurate monitoring of grain yield is imperative for precise agricultural management. This study aimed to enhance winter wheat yield predictions with UAV remote sensing and investigate its predictive capability across diverse environments. In this study, RGB and multispectral (MS) data were collected on 6 May 2020 and 10 May 2022 during the grain filling stage of winter wheat. Using the Pearson correlation coefficient method, we identified 34 MS features strongly correlated with yield. Additionally, we identified 24 texture features constructed from three bands of RGB images and a plant height feature, making a total of 59 features. We used seven machine learning algorithms (Cubist, Gaussian process (GP), Gradient Boosting Machine (GBM), Generalized Linear Model (GLM), K-Nearest Neighbors algorithm (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF)) and applied recursive feature elimination (RFE) to nine feature types. These included single-sensor features, fused sensor features, single-year data, and fused year data. This process yielded diverse feature combinations, leading to the creation of seven distinct yield prediction models. These individual machine learning models were then amalgamated to formulate a Bayesian Model Averaging (BMA) model. The findings revealed that the Cubist model, based on the 2020 and 2022 dataset, achieved the highest R2 at 0.715. Notably, models incorporating both RGB and MS features outperformed those relying solely on either RGB or MS features. The BMA model surpassed individual machine learning models, exhibiting the highest accuracy (R2 = 0.725, RMSE = 0.814 t·ha−1, MSE = 0.663 t·ha−1). Additionally, models were developed using one year’s data for training and another year’s data for validation. Cubist and GLM stood out among the seven individual models, delivering strong predictive performance. The BMA model, combining these models, achieved the highest R2 of 0.673. This highlights the BMA model’s ability to generalize for multi-year data prediction.
X-Band Radar Detection of Small Garbage Islands in Different Sea State Conditions
Authors: Serafino Francesco , Bianco Andrea
Published: June 2024

This paper presents an assessment of X-band radar’s detection capability to monitor Small Garbage Islands (SGIs), i.e., floating aggregations of marine litter consisting chiefly of plastic, under changing sea states. For this purpose, two radar measurement campaigns were carried out with controlled releases at sea of SGI modules assembled in the laboratory. One campaign was carried out with a calm sea and almost no wind in order to determine the X-band radar system’s detection capabilities in an ideal scenario, while the other campaign took place with rough seas and wind. An analysis of the data acquired during the campaigns confirmed that X-band radar can detect small aggregations of litter floating on the sea surface. To demonstrate the radar’s ability to detect SGIs, a statistical analysis was carried out to calculate the probability of false alarm and the probability of detection for two releases at two different distances from the radar. For greater readability of this work, all of the results obtained are presented both in terms of radar intensity and in terms of the radar cross-section relating to both the targets and the clutter. Another interesting study that is presented in this article concerns the measurement of the speed of movement (drift) of the SGIs compared with the measurement of the speed of the surface currents provided at the same time by the radar. The study also identified the radar detection limits depending on the sea state and the target distance from the antenna.
RE: Prevalence of MRI Lesions in Men Responding to a GP-Led Invitation for a Prostate Health Check: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Thomson Alice , Al Saffar Haidar , Perera Marlon , Murphy Declan G.
Published: June 2024

Controversy surrounds population-based screening for prostate cancer, which has typically relied on PSA level for risk stratification. This commentary examines the recent prospective trial examining the use of biphasic prostate MRI scans as a screening tool for prostate cancer. Using a reliable test, such as MRI prostate, at an earlier point along the diagnostic pathway, the authors provide a novel solution to a difficult problem. Further research is warranted to assess how biphasic MRI might be feasible at a population level.
How and When Does Engaging Customers in Environmental Sustainability Pay Off? The Role of Business Strategy
Authors: Aldossary Mohammed , Alyahya Mansour , Agag Gomaa
Published: June 2024

This study explores the influence of consumer engagement for sustainability purposes on customer satisfaction and firm performance. Our study utilized unique actual data on the study variables to test these relationships in the context of S&P 500 firms. We collected data from 405 firms from 2013 to 2022. The analysis revealed that customer engagement is positively related to firm performance and customer satisfaction. The OLS approach demonstrated that a one-unit increase in CE resulted in an 8.1% improvement in company value and a 4.7% improvement in customer satisfaction. It also revealed that the relationship between customer engagement and firm performance is stronger when the company integrates climate change into their strategies. These findings offer meaningful implications for theory and practice in the context of sustainability.