bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compounds of Marine Origin with Possible Applications as Healing Agents
Authors: Karma Nektaria-Ioanna , Mellou Fotini , Pavlou Panagoula , Siamidi Angeliki , Varvaresou Athanasia
Published: December 2024

It is well established that marine organisms consist of a great variety of active compounds that appear exclusively in the marine environment while having the ability to be vastly reproduced, irrespective of the existing conditions. As a result, marine organisms can be used in many scientific fields, including the ones of pharmaceutics, nutrition, and cosmetic science. As for the latter, marine ingredients have been successfully included in cosmetic formulations for many decades, providing numerous benefits for the skin. In the present review, the contribution of marine compounds in wound healing is thoroughly discussed, focusing on their role both as active ingredients in suitable formulations, designed to contribute to different stages of skin regeneration and restoration and also, indirectly, as a tool for facilitating wound closure as part of a wound dressing. Additionally, the advantages of these marine ingredients are presented, as well as ways of incorporating them effectively in formulations, so as to enhance their performance. Numerous studies have been referenced, showcasing their efficacy in wound healing. Finally, important data in regard to their stability, limitations, and challenges to their use, safety issues, and the existing legislative framework are extensively reviewed.
The Effects of Astaxanthin on Metabolic Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Gao Chunhao , Gong Nengyun , Chen Fangtian , Hu Shiran , Zhou Qingxin , Gao Xiang
Published: December 2024

Metabolic syndrome (MS) represents a complex cluster of metabolic disorders primarily characterized by obesity, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and hyperuricemia. Diet and functional ingredients play a pivotal role in seeking non-pharmacological strategies to prevent and ameliorate MS. Astaxanthin (AST), a carotenoid found in various marine organisms, exhibits exceptional antioxidant properties and holds great promise as a natural compound that improves MS. This article introduces the basic properties of AST, including its absorptance and metabolic pathways, along with various isomers. Most importantly, we comprehensively review the effects and mechanisms of AST on improving the primary components of MS. These mechanisms primarily involve regulating signal transduction, transport, or metabolic pathways within the body, as well as influencing intestinal microbiota and metabolites, thereby exerting positive effects on metabolism and inhibiting the occurrence of MS. This review emphasizes the potential efficacy of AST in managing MS. However, more studies are needed to confirm the clinical effect of AST on MS and reveal potential molecular mechanisms.
Integrated Insights into Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Improving Life Quality and Reducing Mortality in Obesity
Authors: Marin Ruxandra-Cristina , Radu Andrei-Flavius , Negru Paul Andrei , Radu Ada , Negru Denisa , Aron Raluca Anca Corb , Bodog Teodora Maria , Bodog Ruxandra Florina , Maghiar Paula Bianca , Brata Roxana
Published: December 2024

Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is an effective intervention for patients with severe obesity and metabolic comorbidities, particularly when non-surgical weight loss methods prove insufficient. MBS has shown significant potential for improving quality of life and metabolic health outcomes in individuals with obesity, yet it carries inherent risks. Although these procedures offer a multifaceted approach to obesity treatment and its clinical advantages are well-documented, the limited understanding of its long-term outcomes and the role of multidisciplinary care pose challenges. With an emphasis on quality-of-life enhancements and the handling of postoperative difficulties, the present narrative review seeks to compile the most recent findings on MBS while emphasizing the value of an integrated approach to maximize patient outcomes. Effective MBS and patients’ management require a collaborative team approach, involving surgeons, dietitians, psychologists, pharmacists, and other healthcare providers to address not only physiological but also psychosocial patient needs. Comparative studies demonstrate the efficacy of various MBS methods, including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy that may considerably decrease morbidity and mortality in individuals with obesity. Future studies should target long-term patient treatment, and decision making should be aided by knowledge of obesity, comorbidity recurrence rates, and permanence of benefits.
The Beneficial Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Other than Their Anti-Diabetic and Anti-Obesity Properties
Authors: Lu Chenqi , Xu Cong , Yang Jun
Published: December 2024

As an incretin hormone, Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) has obvious effects on blood glucose regulation and weight loss. GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists are synthetic products that have similar effects to GLP-1 but are less prone to degradation, and they are widely used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. In recent years, different beneficial effects of GLP-1R agonists were discovered, such as reducing ischemia-reperfusion injury, improving the function of various organs, alleviating substance use disorder, affecting tumorigenesis, regulating bone metabolism, changing gut microbiota composition, and prolonging graft survival. Therefore, GLP-1R agonists have great potential for clinical application in various diseases. Here, we briefly summarized the beneficial effects of GLP-1R agonists other than the anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects.
Modern Mathematical Physics: A New Open Access Journal
Authors: Sun Chang-Pu , Batchelor Murray , Wang Yupeng
Published: December 2024

It is our great pleasure to be involved in the launch of Modern Mathematical Physics (MMP) [...]
Development of 111In-Labeled Monoclonal Antibodies Targeting SFTSV Structural Proteins for Molecular Imaging of SFTS Infectious Diseases by SPECT
Authors: Fuchigami Takeshi , Ngwe Tun Mya Myat , Tanahara Yusuke , Nishi Kodai , Yoshida Sakura , Ogawa Kazuma , Nakayama Morio , Hayasaka Daisuke
Published: December 2024

No effective vaccines or treatments are currently available for severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), a fatal tick-borne infectious disease caused by the SFTS virus (SFTSV). This study evaluated the potential of 111In-labeled anti-SFTSV antibodies targeting SFTSV structural proteins as single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging agents for the selective visualization of SFTSV-infected sites. This study used nuclear medicine imaging to elucidate the pathology of SFTS and assess its therapeutic efficacy. Immunostaining experiments confirmed that the anti-SFTSV antibody (N-mAb), which targets the N protein, specifically accumulated in SFTSV-infected Vero E6 cells. 111In-labeled N-mAb was successfully prepared using a diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) chelator, resulting in [111In]In-DTPA-N-mAb with high radiochemical purity exceeding 95% and a radiochemical yield of 55%. Cell-binding assays using SFTSV-infected Vero E6 cells demonstrated that [111In]In-DTPA-N-mAb binding was detectable even without membrane permeabilization, with the binding intensity correlating with infection levels. In vivo studies using SFTSV-infected A129 mice showed high spleen accumulation of [111In]In-DTPA-N-mAb (87.5% ID/g), consistent with SFTSV tropism, compared to 12.3% ID/g in mock-infected mice. SPECT/CT imaging clearly revealed high radioactivity in these regions. Although nonspecific accumulation was noted in the liver and spleen, this issue may be mitigated through antibody modifications such as fragmentation or PEGylation. Overall, [111In]In-DTPA-N-mAb is a promising imaging agent for non-invasive visualization of SFTSV-infected sites and may aid in elucidating SFTS pathology and assessing therapeutic efficacy.
Latest Advances in Green Extraction of Polyphenols from Plants, Foods and Food By-Products
Authors: Palos-Hernández Andrea , González-Paramás Ana M. , Santos-Buelga Celestino
Published: December 2024

Phenolic compounds present in plants and foods are receiving increasing attention for their bioactive and sensory properties, accompanied by consumers’ interest in products with health benefits derived from natural rather than artificial sources. This, together with the sustainable development goals for the 21st century, has driven the development of green extraction techniques that allow obtaining these compounds with the safety and quality required to be applied in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Green extraction of natural products involves practices aiming at reducing the environmental impact of the preparation processes, based on using natural or less-polluting solvents, lower energetic requirements and shorter extraction times, while providing greater efficiency in the recovery of target compounds. In this article, the principles of sustainable extraction techniques and the advances produced in recent years regarding green isolation of polyphenols from plants, food and food waste are reviewed.
Ent-Kaurane Diterpenoids from Coffea Genus: An Update of Chemical Diversity and Biological Aspects
Authors: Martins Víctor de C. , da Silva Maria Alice E. , da Veiga Valdir F. , Pereira Henrique M. G. , de Rezende Claudia M.
Published: December 2024

Coffee is one of the most important beverages in the world and is produced from Coffea spp. beans. Diterpenes with ent-kaurane backbones have been described in this genus, and substances such as cafestol and kahweol have been widely investigated, along with their derivatives and biological properties. Other coffee ent-kaurane diterpenoids have been reported with new perspectives on their biological activities. The aim of this review is to update the chemical diversity of ent-kaurane diterpenoids in green and roasted coffee, detailing each new compound and reporting its biological potential. A systematic review was performed using the bibliographic databases (SciFinder, Web of Science, ScienceDirect) and specific keywords such as “coffea diterpenes”, “coffee diterpenes”, “coffee ent-kaurane diterpenes” and “coffee diterpenoids”. Only articles related to the isolation of coffee ent-kaurane compounds were considered. A total of 146 compounds were related to Coffea spp. since the first report in 1932. Different chemical skeletons were observed, and these compounds were grouped as furan-type, oxidation-type, rearrangement-type, lacton-type, and lactam-type, among others. In general, the new coffee diterpenoids showed potential as antidiabetic, antidiapogenic, α-glucosidade inhibition, antiplatelet activity, and Cav.3 inhibitors agents, revealing the possibilities for the design, discovery, and development of new drugs.
Structure–Activity Relationship Studies of Tetracyclic Pyrrolocarbazoles Inhibiting Heterotetrameric Protein Kinase CK2
Authors: Kröger Lukas , Borgert Sebastian , Lauwers Miriam , Steinkrüger Michaela , Jose Joachim , Pietsch Markus , Wünsch Bernhard
Published: December 2024

The serine/threonine kinase CK2 (formerly known as casein kinase II) plays a crucial role in various CNS disorders and is highly expressed in various types of cancer. Therefore, inhibiting this key kinase could be promising for the treatment of these diseases. The CK2 holoenzyme is formed by the recruitment of two catalytically active CK2α and/or CK2α′ subunits by a regulatory CK2β dimer. Starting with the lead furocarbazole W16 (4) inhibiting the CK2α/CK2β interaction, analogous pyrrolocarbazoles were prepared and tested for their protein–protein interaction inhibition (PPII). The key step of the synthesis was a multicomponent Levy reaction of 2-(indolyl)acetate 6, benzaldehydes 7, and N-substituted maleimides 8. Targeted modifications were performed by the saponification of the tetracyclic ester 9a, followed by the coupling of the resulting acid 10 with diverse amines. The replacement of the O-atom of the lead furocarbazole 4 by an N-atom in pyrrolocarbazoles retained or even increased the inhibition of the CK2α/CK2β interaction. The large benzyloxazolidinyl moiety of 4 could be replaced by smaller N-substituents without the loss of the PPII. The introduction of larger substituents at the 2-position and/or at p-position of the phenyl moiety at the 10-position to increase the surface for the inhibition of the PPI did not enhance the inhibition of the CK2α/CK2β association. The strong inhibition of the CK2α/CK2β association by the histidine derivative (+)-20a (Ki = 6.1 µM) translated into a high inhibition of the kinase activity of the CK2 holoenzyme (CK2α2β2, IC50 = 2.5 µM). Thus, 20a represents a novel lead compound inhibiting CK2 via the inhibition of the association of the CK2α and Ck2β subunits.
How Architecture Builds Intelligence: Lessons from AI
Authors: Salingaros Nikos A.
Published: December 2024

The architecture in the title refers to physical buildings, spaces, and walls. Dominant architectural culture prefers minimalist environments that contradict the information setting needed for the infant brain to develop. Much of world architecture after World War II is therefore unsuitable for raising children. Data collected by technological tools, including those that use AI for processing signals, indicate a basic misfit between cognition and design. Results from the way AI software works in general, together with mobile robotics and neuroscience, back up this conclusion. There exists a critical research gap: the systematic investigation of how the geometry of the built environment influences cognitive development and human neurophysiology. While previous studies have explored environmental effects on health (other than from pathogens and pollutants), they largely focus on factors such as acoustics, color, and light, neglecting the fundamental role of spatial geometry. Geometrical features in the ancestral setting shaped neural circuits that determine human cognition and intelligence. However, the contemporary built environment consisting of raw concrete, plate glass, and exposed steel sharply contrasts with natural geometries. Traditional and vernacular architectures are appropriate for life, whereas new buildings and urban spaces adapt to human biology and are better for raising children only if they follow living geometry, which represents natural patterns such as fractals and nested symmetries. This study provides a novel, evidence-based framework for adaptive and empathetic architectural design.
The Effect of Infiltration Temperature on the Microstructure and Magnetic Levitation Force of Single-Domain YBa2Cu3O7-x Bulk Superconductors Grown by a Modified Y+011 IG Method
Authors: Maimaiti Nuerseman , Abulaiti Abulizi , Yang Wanmin
Published: December 2024

During the preparation of single-domain (S-D) REBa2Cu3O7-x (RE-123) superconducting bulks, the seed crystals can serve as templates for crystal growth, guiding the newly formed crystals to grow in a specific direction, thereby ensuring the consistency of the crystal orientation within the sample. However, the infiltration temperature is typically restricted to approximately 1050 °C when employing NdBa2Cu3O7-x (Nd-123) crystal seeds in the traditional top-seeded infiltration growth (TSIG) technique for producing single-domain Y-123 bulk superconductors. In the present study, to overcome the temperature limitations of the heat treatment process, the optimized Y2O3 +011 IG (011 refers to BaCuO2 powder) method was employed to fabricate a group of single-domain Y-123 bulks with a high-temperature infiltration (1000–1300 °C). The reason for the differences in the superconducting properties between the different samples was analyzed by studying the relationship between the microstructure of the infiltrated pellet and the final Y-123 sample. The research findings were as follows: (1) when the infiltration temperature exceeded 1150 °C, the successful preparation of single-domain YBa2Cu3O7-x (Y-123) bulks became unattainable due to the coarsening or melting decomposition of the Y2BaCuO5 (Y-211) phase according to the SEM–EDS analysis; (2) the content of the Y-211 phase within the Y-123 matrix was approximately 40.8%, 37.2%, 32.7%, 30.5%, and 46.4% for the different final samples; (3) with an increasing infiltration temperature, the magnetic levitation forces exhibited an initial increase followed by a subsequent decline. The maximum levitation force of 47.1 N at 77 K was reached in the sample S3 infiltrated at 1100 °C.
Emerging Biomarkers and Determinants of Lipoprotein Profiles to Predict CVD Risk: Implications for Precision Nutrition
Authors: Andersen Catherine J. , Fernandez Maria Luz
Published: December 2024

Biomarkers constitute a valuable tool to diagnose both the incidence and the prevalence of chronic diseases and may help to inform the design and effectiveness of precision nutrition interventions. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) continues to be the foremost cause of death all over the world. While the reasons that lead to increased risk for CVD are multifactorial, dyslipidemias, plasma concentrations of specific lipoproteins, and dynamic measures of lipoprotein function are strong biomarkers to predict and document coronary heart disease incidence. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the biomarkers and emerging approaches that can be utilized to characterize lipoprotein profiles as predictive tools for assessing CVD risk, including the assessment of traditional clinical lipid panels, measures of lipoprotein efflux capacity and inflammatory and antioxidant activity, and omics-based characterization of lipoprotein composition and regulators of lipoprotein metabolism. In addition, we discuss demographic, genetic, metagenomic, and lifestyle determinants of lipoprotein profiles—such as age, sex, gene variants and single-nucleotide polymorphisms, gut microbiome profiles, dietary patterns, physical inactivity, obesity status, smoking and alcohol intake, and stress—which are likely to be essential factors to explain interindividual responses to precision nutrition recommendations to mitigate CVD risk.
Nutritional Strategies Prescribed During Pregnancy and Weight Gain in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies
Authors: Araújo Maria Elionês de Oliveira , Lucena Amanda Maria Lira de , Fontes Iasmim Leite , Araújo Anny Cristine de , Ribeiro Karla Danielly da Silva
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: This systematic review aims to identify diets related to weight gain in pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods: This study was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, and its protocol was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42023432322). The searches used the medical subject headings in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE databases. Studies were selected, and data were extracted by three researchers. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool were used to assess methodological quality. Results: Six articles were included, most of them of the cohort type, with nutritional strategies lasting 2–15 weeks for overweight/obese women, based on the “macronutrient-adjusted diet” and “calorie-adjusted diet”. Only one study addressed dietary counseling in weight management, and none considered the dietary pattern. The gestational weight gain was 4.91–13.8 kg, and a lower weight gain was found in all studies that used the “macronutrient-adjusted diet” nutritional strategy. However, it did not meet the gestational weight gain targets. Conclusions: Despite the limited number of studies examining the impact of nutritional strategies on weight gain in women with GDM, some research suggests that diets focused on macronutrient adjustment may lead to less weight gain but are not adequate. Therefore, future studies are needed to evaluate which type of nutritional strategies ensure weight gain control during pregnancy.
Postprandial Vascular Effects of a High Potassium Meal in Patients with Treated Hypertension
Authors: Malta Daniela , Esfandiari Sam , Goldraich Livia A. , Allard Johane P. , Newton Gary E.
Published: December 2024

Background: There is compelling evidence of an inverse association between potassium intake and blood pressure (BP). A potential mechanism for this effect may be dietary potassium-mediated augmentation of endothelium-dependent relaxation. To date, studies have investigated potassium intake supplementation over several weeks in healthy volunteers with variable results on vascular function. There is no assessment of the acute vascular effects of potassium supplementation achieved by the ingestion of potassium-rich food in a hypertensive population. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a high potassium meal on postprandial endothelial function as measured by flow-mediated dilatation (FMD). Methods: We performed an investigator-blinded randomized crossover trial in 33 treated hypertensive individuals. Participants consumed both a high (~2400 mg) and low (~543 mg) K+ meal, separated by a one-week washout period. The primary endpoint was endothelial function as assessed by FMD pre-meal and postprandially at 60 and 120 min. Meals were compared at each time point using the Hills–Armitage approach. Results: 33 individuals were included in the study (48% male, mean age 68). In the fasting state (Baseline), and at 60 min postprandial, radial artery FMD was not significantly different between the participants after consumption of either meal (baseline: high K+ 4.2 ± 2% versus Low K+ 2.6 ± 3%, p = 0.93; 60 min: high K+ 3.8 ± 4% versus Low K+ 4.1 ± 3%, p = 0.69). However, at 120 min, FMD tended to be higher in participants after the high K+ meal (5.2 ± 4.1%) than after the low K+ meal (3.9 ± 4.1%) (p = 0.07). There were no differences in participants’ radial artery diameter and blood flow between meals. Conclusions: This study does not support our hypothesis that a single high K+ meal improves vascular function in individuals with treated hypertension. This does not contradict the clinical evidence relating greater K+ intake with lower BP, but suggests that mechanistic investigations of increased K+ intake through diet alone and its impact on endothelial function as a mediator to reducing BP are complex and not simply due to single nutrient-mediated improvement in vascular function.
Pacific Islands Families Study: Serum Uric Acid in Pacific Youth and the Associations with Free-Sugar Intake and Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass
Authors: Jalili-Moghaddam Shabnam , Mearns Gael , Plank Lindsay D. , Tautolo El-Shadan , Rush Elaine
Published: December 2024

Background: Fructose (50% of sucrose/sugar) is one component of free-sugars and is metabolized to uric acid, which is a known risk factor for gout and metabolic syndrome. Pacific peoples in New Zealand experience a higher prevalence of gout, type 2 diabetes, and overweight/obesity than other ethnic groups. Interestingly, despite having a similar body mass index (BMI), they tend to have a higher proportion of appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM) and less fat than other ethnic groups. Given this context, this study aimed to evaluate the associations between serum uric acid (SUA), free-sugar intake, and ASMM. Methods: In a nested sub-study from the Pacific Islands Families birth-cohort study, 101 boys and 99 girls (all aged 14 and 15 years) self-reported how often they had consumed foods containing sugar in the past month. Anthropometry, body fatness, and ASMM by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and metabolic risk factors, including SUA were measured. Results: Overall, 43% of girls and 57% of boys consumed ‘sugary drinks’ twice or more a day. When analyzed by group, ASMM was positively related to SUA for both boys and girls (r = 0.593, p < 0.0001). The effect of the intake of ‘sugary drinks’ on SUA (r = 0.176, p = 0.013) was reduced when ASMM was considered in the relationships. Conclusions: This study shows high SUA levels in Pacific adolescents, with a positive association between ASMM and SUA in both genders. Sugary drink intake was positively associated with SUA in both boys and girls. High ASMM in Pacific people and an increased risk for raised SUA make it important to work with Pacific communities to reduce added sugar intake and adopt integrated, family-based, culturally centered, and life-course approaches to prevent chronic diseases, including gout.
The Cultural Heritage Framework Programme: Highlighting the Contribution of Marine Cultural Heritage to the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030)
Authors: Henderson Jon , Holly Georgia , da Silva Arturo Rey , Trakadas Athena
Published: December 2024

This paper considers the importance of including Marine Cultural Heritage (MCH) in the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) in order to fully address the challenges facing the health of our oceans. It outlines the aims and objectives of the Cultural Heritage Framework Programme (CHFP), an official action of the UN Decade of Ocean Science and the only one that specifically deals with cultural heritage. The role of MCH in the Decade is discussed, and its under-appreciation in the UNESCO Cultural Conventions is outlined. The paper then presents the activities of the CHFP, discussing the main themes identified to date, and finishes by outlining the initiative’s next steps.
Racial Disparities in Total Ankle Arthroplasty Utilization: A National Database Analysis
Authors: Long Jason , Shaffrey Isabel , Danilkowicz Richard , Kim Jaewhan , Grimm Nathan , Anastasio Albert , Adams Samuel
Published: December 2024

Background: Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is successful at reducing pain and improving patient satisfaction. A paucity of literature exists regarding racial disparities in TAA. The aim of this study was to update the literature, analyze utilization rates, and detect differences in postoperative outcomes between the racial/ethnic groups. Methods: A retrospective study was performed utilizing the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database between the years 2012 and 2018. The postoperative complications were identified as outcomes. Patients were categorized based on race/ethnicity for comparison. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results: 1164 patients met criteria, 1051 (90.3%) were White, 113 (9.7%) were Non-White, a nearly 10-fold difference in utilization rate. The mean age of White patients undergoing TAA was older than Non-White patients, 63.7 and 55.3 years respectively (p-value < 0.01). Incidence of postoperative complications showed no significant differences based on racial group. Conclusions: Our results found a nearly 10-fold difference in White patients undergoing TAA compared to other racial/ethnic groups. This highlights the continued racial disparities present in TAA. Further efforts are needed to improve the proportion of minority populations who undergo TAA to bridge the current racial disparities present in the field of TAA.
Beeswax Alcohol (BWA, Raydel®) Improved Blood Oxidative Variables and Ameliorated Severe Damage of Zebrafish Kidneys, Testes, and Ovaries Impaired by 24-Week Consumption of a High-Cholesterol and High-Galactose Diet: A Comparative Analysis with Coenzyme Q10
Authors: Cho Kyung-Hyun , Bahuguna Ashutosh , Kim Ji-Eun , Lee Yunki , Lee Sang Hyuk , Jeon Cheolmin , Kim Cheol-Hee
Published: December 2024

Objectives: The present study describes the comparative effect of 24-week supplementation of beeswax alcohol (BWA, Raydel®, 0.5% and 1.0%, wt/wt) and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10, 0.5% and 1.0%, wt/wt) on plasma oxidative variables and the prevention of organ injury in adult zebrafish subjected to a high-cholesterol (HC, 4%, wt/wt) and -D-galactose (Gal, 30%, wt/wt) diet. Methods: Adult zebrafish were fed various HC+Gal diets enriched with either BWA or CoQ10. After 24 weeks of dietary intervention, blood and organs were harvested for subsequent biochemical and histological evaluations. Results: The HC+Gal-elevated plasma oxidative variables were reverted by the consumption of BWA, marked by the lowest plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) level and highest sulfhydryl content. The HC+Gal-impaired zebrafish swimming ability (staggering movement) was substantially recovered by BWA, manifested by a ~three-fold (p < 0.001) enhancement in swimming distance and speed. Also, the intake of BWA affected the morphology of HC+Gal-compromised kidney and induced histological changes by mitigating reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and cellular senescence, which was markedly more effective than the results seen in the CoQ10 group. Likewise, BWA proved effective in preventing HC+Gal-induced testis damage, apparent in the 48.3% (p < 0.05) higher spermatozoa and 26.3% (p < 0.01) reduced interstitial space between the seminiferous tubules. BWA substantially prevented HC+Gal-induced ovary damage by suppressing oxidative stress, lipid deposition and senescence, leading to the restoration of mature vitellogenic oocyte counts. Conclusion: BWA demonstrated a greater ability than CoQ10 to enhance plasma antioxidant status, suppress ROS generation, delay organ aging and alleviate HC+Gal-induced adversity in zebrafish.
Angular Circle Array Multiple Input Multiple Output Underwater Optical Wireless Communications
Authors: Chen Zhuoqi , Liu Yuhe , Yi Xiang , Zhao Ruiqin
Published: December 2024

This paper constructs a simulation platform for underwater wireless optical single-input single-output (SISO) communication systems and quantitatively evaluates communication performance indicators. To improve channel capacity, we propose an angular circle array MIMO scheme. The path loss, CIR, and channel capacity of the angular circular array MIMO communication system are calculated by using the Monte Carlo method. Results show that the proposed angular circular array MIMO communication system has a higher channel capacity compared to planar circular array MIMO communication systems and SISO communication systems.
Numerical Study of the Soil Temperature Field Affected by Natural Gas Pipeline Leakage
Authors: Chang Weichun , Gu Xiaolong , Zhang Xiahua , Gou Zenian , Zhang Xin , Xiong Zhiyi
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the impact of natural gas pipeline leakage on the soil temperature field through numerical simulations. Physical and mathematical models were developed to analyze the temperature and flow field changes resulting from pipeline leaks. The study explores the influence of various leakage factors on the temperature distribution in the surrounding soil. Key findings include the identification of the buried pipeline temperature as a critical factor influencing the soil temperature gradient when surface temperatures are similar to the subsurface constant temperature. Upon leakage, the pressure distribution around the leak is symmetrical, with a higher pressure at the leak point, and the Joule–Thomson effect causes a rapid decrease in gas temperature, forming a permafrost zone. The study also reveals that increased transport pressure expands the permafrost area, with pressure playing a significant role in the temperature field distribution. Additionally, an increase in the leak orifice diameter accelerates the expansion of the permafrost area and reduces the time for temperature stabilization at monitoring points. Conversely, changes in the leak direction mainly affect the spatial distribution of the permafrost zone without significantly altering its size. The findings provide valuable insights for monitoring natural gas pipeline leaks through temperature field variations.
Exploring the Role of Masculinity in Male Suicide: A Systematic Review
Authors: Galvez-Sánchez Carmen M. , Camacho-Ruiz Julio A. , Castelli Lorys , Limiñana-Gras Rosa M.
Published: December 2024

(1) Background: Suicide represents a critical global public health concern. In the majority of countries, men have higher rates of suicide completion, while women show higher rates of suicide attempts. Masculinity is a complex construct shaped by socialization processes that begin early in life. The aim of this study is to explore the influence of masculinity on suicidal behaviors among men. (2) Methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. The review protocol was pre-registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). (3) Results: This systematic review—which includes 18 studies—highlights the detrimental influence of hegemonic masculinity on both the occurrence and frequency of suicide among men, with a particularly significant negative impact on vulnerable men (e.g., homeless men; adolescents and young men; and men with addiction, depression, and/or other mental health issues), where the consideration of intersectionality is essential. (4) Conclusions: Men who strongly conformed to the norms and values linked to traditional masculinity were more prone to die by suicide and to report experiencing suicidal thoughts and attempts. Analyzing suicidal behavior from a gender perspective is critical for effective prevention and treatment, as gender disparities are clearly observed in both suicide fatalities and nonfatal attempts.
Probing the Relationships Between Mandaeans (the Followers of John the Baptist), Early Christians, and Manichaeans
Authors: Nasoraia Brikha H. S.
Published: December 2024

Mandaeism is the only ancient Gnostic religion surviving to the present day from antiquity. ‘Gnosticism’ was a block of creative religious activity mostly responding to the early Christian teachings in unusual ways of cosmicizing Jesus, and presenting a challenge to the ancient church fathers in the first-to-third centuries CE. Mandaeism, by comparison, has roots from John the Baptist rather than Jesus, although it is also important to recognize that this baptizing movement emerged in part as a survival of a very old indigenous ethno-religious grouping from Mesopotamia, its followers eventually settling in Mesopotamia’s middle and southern regions. Indeed, much of the Mandaeans’ thought and practice, especially their rituals of water ablution, have deep origins going back to Sumer, Akkad and Babylonia, reflecting regionally wide influences from right across the Fertile Crescent. Mandaean culture and the Mandaic Aramaic language was of high report in the so-called Patristic period covered by this Special Issue, even in the Arabian Peninsula up until the rise of Islam (634 CE onward), and Mandaeans were honored as a third “People of the Book”—the Sabians (Ṣābeʾun; or ṣobba in modern Iraqi Arabic)—in the Qur’an (2:62; 5:69; 22:17); in the Muslim world, many Mandaic speakers switched language to colloquial Iraqi Arabic and (Arabicized) Persian. This article aims to raise some basic questions, relevant to Patristics, about aspects of relationships between Mandaeans and both early ‘mainstream’ Christians and the other large grouping, the Manichaeans. These questions first concern the common flight of the followers of John and Jesus just before the Roman siege and destruction of Jerusalem (66–70 CE) and the role of the woman Miriai; second, the extent to which John and his followers affected the direction of early Christianity, and the consequences this had for ‘Baptist’/Christian relationships into the Patristic period, with attention paid to Mandaean views of Jesus; third, the process of the formation of early Mandaeism as it combined Hellenistic-Palestinian and Mesopotamian elements; and fourth, the signs that the Mandaeans not only influenced Mesopotamian Christian baptismal sects but were crucial in the emergence Manichaeism (from the 230s CE in Persian-dominated Iraq). This article will finish by concentrating on Mandaean–Manichaean relations in the light of a little known and previously secret Mandaic text (Diwan Razia), best known as Mani or Sidra d-Mani within a larger collection of unnamed occult texts. On the basis of the Mandaeans’ texts, we maintain that both Jesus and Mani apparently left their fold in turn.
GPR in Damage Identification of Concrete Elements—A Case Study of Diagnostics in a Prestressed Bridge
Authors: Łaziński Piotr , Jasiński Marcin , Uściłowski Mateusz , Piotrowski Dawid , Ortyl Łukasz
Published: December 2024

Effective placement and compaction of the concrete mixture within the spans of prestressed bridges are essential for the proper anchoring and prestressing of tendons. The high density of reinforcement and location of the cable ducts present significant challenges, increasing the risk of void formation and structural irregularities, which can lead to failures during the prestressing process. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) emerges as a pivotal non-destructive testing method for diagnosing such complex prestressed structures. Utilizing high-frequency electromagnetic waves, GPR accurately detects and maps anomalies within hardened concrete, enabling precise identification of defect locations and their dimensions. The detailed imaging provided by GPR facilitates the development of targeted repair strategies and allows for the exclusion of concrete voids through selective invasive inspections in designated boreholes. This study presents the use of GPR for the investigation of anomalies and damage in prestressing tendons of a newly built concrete bridge. It underscores the critical role of GPR in enhancing the diagnostic and maintenance programs for prestressed bridge structures, thereby improving their overall integrity and longevity.
A Review of Spaceborne High-Resolution Spotlight/Sliding Spotlight Mode SAR Imaging
Authors: Wu Baolong , Liu Chengjin , Chen Jianlai
Published: December 2024

Spotlight/sliding spotlight modes can achieve higher resolution than the other imaging modes and are widely used in object detection and recognition applications. This paper reviews the progress of the spaceborne spotlight/sliding spotlight SAR imaging field. The three steps of the current spaceborne spotlight/sliding spotlight SAR imaging algorithm framework are discussed in this paper. These include the following: eliminating the azimuth spectral aliasing by azimuth deramp preprocessing; implementing imaging processing using imaging kernels (RD, CS, RMA, etc.); and degrading the back-folded phenomenon in the final focused image domain by reference function multiplication post-processing. The different imaging kernels, consisting of RD, CS, RMA, BAS, FS, and PFA, are presented. The phase errors in high-resolution spaceborne spotlight/sliding spotlight SAR imaging, especially the stop-and-go error, curved orbit error, and tropospheric delay error, are analyzed in detail. Furthermore, the autofocus methods are described. In addition, some new imaging SAR systems based on spotlight/sliding spotlight SAR mode, which have more advantages than the classic spaceborne spotlight/sliding spotlight SAR imaging, were shown in this paper. These include FMCW-based systems, multichannel systems, varying-PRF systems, and bistatic systems.
Multiple Hierarchical Cross-Scale Transformer for Remote Sensing Scene Classification
Authors: Zhang Dan , Ma Wenping , Jiao Licheng , Liu Xu , Yang Yuting , Liu Fang
Published: December 2024

The Transformer model can capture global contextual information but does not have an inherent inductive bias. In contrast, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are highly praised in computer vision due to their strong inductive bias and local spatial correlation. To combine the advantages of the two model types, we propose a multiple hierarchical cross-scale Transformer model that efficiently combines the Transformer model with CNNs and is specifically designed for complex remote sensing scene classification. Firstly, a feature pyramid network with attention aggregation extracts the multi-scale base features. Then, these base features are fed into the proposed multi-scale channel Transformer (MSCT) module to derive the global features with channel-wise attention. Additionally, the base features are also fed into the proposed hierarchical cross-scale Transformer (HCST) module, which can obtain multi-level cross-scale representations. Lastly, the outputs from both modules are taken into account to calculate the final classification score. The performance of the proposed method has been validated for its effectiveness on three public datasets: AID, UCM, and NWPU-RESISC45.
Range-Dependent Variance Correction Method for High-Resolution and Wide-Swath Spaceborne Synthetic Aperture Radar Imaging Based on Block Processing in Range Dimension
Authors: Hou Zhenyu , Zhang Zehua , Li Pin , Yun Zhuo , He Feng , Dong Zhen
Published: December 2024

With increasing demands for SAR image applications, spaceborne SAR systems are evolving towards higher resolution and wider swath capabilities. However, these advancements lead to more pronounced range-dependent variance effects. Previous research has primarily focused on the impact of range-dependent variance on range cell migration and the quadratic phase of range frequency, while often neglecting the effects of the cubic phase of range frequency. Although some block processing methods have addressed the range-dependent variant cubic phase of range frequency, they lack detailed impact analyses and segmentation criteria. This paper first proposes a Circle–Sphere geometric model to establish a theoretical framework for analyzing range-dependent variance impacts. Through simulation experiments, we validate the theoretical model’s accuracy and develop a numerical analysis of range-dependent variance effects. Building upon this foundation, we introduce a range-dependent variance correction method based on block processing in the range dimension. This method, incorporating valid data area and buffered data area, effectively corrects range-dependent variance while preventing data wrapping and fragmentation. Moreover, our theoretical model for analyzing range-dependent variance impacts provides both theoretical and numerical foundations for block segmentation criteria. The effectiveness and applicability of the proposed method are validated through both simulation experiments and real data experiments using GF3.
Cognitive FDA-MIMO Radar Network’s Transmit Element Selection Algorithm for Target Tracking in a Complex Interference Scenario
Authors: Yan Yingfei , Tao Haihong , Guo Jingjing , Yang Biao
Published: December 2024

In the future, radar will encounter a more intricate and ever-changing electromagnetic interference environment. Consequently, one crucial trajectory for radar system evolution is the incorporation of network and cognition capabilities to meet these emerging challenges. The traditional frequency diversity array multiple-input multiple-output (FDA-MIMO) radar is rendered ineffective due to occurrences of frequency spectrum interference and main-lobe deceptive interference with arbitrary time delays. Therefore, a cognitive FDA-MIMO radar network (CFDA-MIMORN) transmit element selection algorithm is introduced. At first, the target is discriminated from the false targets. The Kalman filter is used to track the target, then available information is used to infer the target’s position in the next time step. The finite transmit elements of the radar network are organized to enhance tracking performance, especially in the presence of frequency spectrum interferences. The numerical simulations demonstrate that the proposed CFDA-MIMORN can effectively discriminate the true target from false targets, and optimize the allocation of transmit elements to avoid interferences, resulting in improved tracking accuracy.
A Coupling Method for the Stability of Reflectors and Support Structure in an ALB Optical-Mechanical System
Authors: Zhou Guoqing , Liu Jianyin , Gao Ke , Liu Rundong , Tang Yi , Cai Angte , Zhou Xiang , Xu Jiasheng , Xie Xiaolan
Published: December 2024

This research presents a “flexible support structure between reflective mirrors” through a coupling analysis method to restrain the surface shaping error of reflectors in the optical system of airborne LiDAR bathymetry (ALB) under various working conditions. The flexible structure proposed adjusts the mechanical relationship between the reflectors and the support structure to reduce reflector mirror deformation. The optical system is first modeled using Zemax and exported to SolidWorks to create a 3D model of the optical receiving system. Ansys is then used to conduct stiffness testing and surface analysis on the support structure of the annular thin cylinder. According to the analysis results, the first-order frequency of the support structure using a ring-shaped thin cylinder is as high as 353.64 Hz, which indicates that it has good dynamic characteristics. The PV value of the reflector mirror deformation under the thermal coupling reaches 32.59 nm, and the RMS value reaches 8.62 nm. Additionally, it is discovered that the maximum acceleration response of the reflector mirror under the applied 1 g acceleration excitation reaches 4.22 g when carrying out the dynamics analysis of the support structure. Under random vibration analysis, the maximum acceleration RMS value of the reflector mirror assembly reaches 2.18 g, and the maximum stress of the flexible device of the support structure reaches 2.65 MPa. Especially, five groups of experimental results demonstrated that the proposed coupling analysis method can receive the echo signals, the reflector mirror support structure designed in this paper, and the flexible structure is stable and reliable.
Payload State Prediction Based on Real-Time IoT Network Traffic Using Hierarchical Clustering with Iterative Optimization
Authors: Zhang Hao , Wang Jing , Wang Xuanyuan , Lu Kai , Zhang Hao , Xu Tong , Zhou Yan
Published: December 2024

IoT (Internet of Things) networks are vulnerable to network viruses and botnets, while facing serious network security issues. The prediction of payload states in IoT networks can detect network attacks and achieve early warning and rapid response to prevent potential threats. Due to the instability and packet loss of communications between victim network nodes, the constructed protocol state machines of existing state prediction schemes are inaccurate. In this paper, we propose a network payload predictor called IoTGuard, which can predict the payload states in IoT networks based on real-time IoT network traffic. The steps of IoTGuard are briefly as follows: Firstly, the application-layer payloads between different nodes are extracted through a module of network payload separation. Secondly, the classification of payload state within network flows is obtained via a payload extraction module. Finally, the predictor of payload state in a network is trained on a payload set, and these payloads have state labels. Experimental results on the Mozi botnet dataset show that IoTGuard can predict the state of payloads in IoT networks more accurately while ensuring execution efficiency. IoTGuard achieves an accuracy of 86% in network payload prediction, which is 8% higher than the state-of-the-art method NetZob, and the training time is reduced by 52.8%.