bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Full-resolution image restoration for light field images via a spatial shift-variant degradation network
Authors: Zhu Conghui , Jiang Yi , Yuan Yan , Su Lijuan , Yin Xiaorui , Kong Deqian
Published: January 2024

The light field (LF) imaging systems face a trade-off between the spatial and angular resolution in a limited sensor resolution. Various networks have been proposed to enhance the spatial resolution of the sub-aperture image (SAI). However, the spatial shift-variant characteristics of the LF are not considered, and few efforts have been made to recover a full-resolution (FR) image. In this paper, we propose an FR image restoration method by embedding LF degradation kernels into the network. An explicit convolution model based on the scalar diffraction theory is first derived to calculate the system response and imaging matrix. Based on the analysis of LF image formation, we establish the mapping from an FR image to the SAI through the SAI kernel, which is a spatial shift-variant degradation (SSVD) kernel. Then, the SSVD kernels are embedded into the proposed network as prior knowledge. An SSVD convolution layer is specially designed to handle the view-wise degradation feature and speed up the training process. A refinement block is designed to preserve the entire image details. Moreover, our network is evaluated on extensive simulated and real-world LF images to demonstrate its superior performance compared with other methods. Experiments on a multi-focus scene further prove that our network is suitable for any in-focus or defocused conditions.
Enhancement of key generation rate in QKD systems using dual branch PNR detectors
Authors: Yazdanpour Amir , Kumar Shiva , Khajezadeh Mohammad , Garmaroudi Hafez M.
Published: January 2024

What we believe to be a new architecture based on dual-branch photon-number-resolving (DB-PNR) detectors for the receiver in the hybrid quantum key distribution (QKD) is introduced. DB-PNR scheme empowers the receiver to detect both quadratures of the coherent state simultaneously. Our results show that using DB-PNR detectors, the key generation rate (KGR) is almost doubled as compared to homodyne detection which detects only one quadrature at a time. The mutual information is enhanced by around 0.85 bits/symbol using DB-PNR as compared to heterodyne detection. DB-PNR is also found to outperform the heterodyne detection against Eve’s individual and collective attacks. PNR-based detection schemes require less local oscillator (LO) power compared to homodyne/heterodyne detection schemes and thereby, the power efficiency of the receiver is enhanced.
3D camera based on laser light absorption by atmospheric oxygen at 761 nm
Authors: Kääriäinen Teemu , Seppä Jeremias
Published: January 2024

A 3D camera based on laser light absorption of atmospheric oxygen at 761 nm is presented. The camera uses a current-tunable single frequency distributed feedback laser for active illumination and a silicon-based image sensor as a receiver. This simple combination enables capturing 3D images with a compact and mass producible set-up. The 3D camera is validated in indoor environments. Distance accuracy of better than 4 cm is demonstrated between 4 m and 10 m distances. Future potential and improvements are discussed.
Thermal stability of triple-junction gallium arsenide cells
Authors: Feng Yukang , Wang Yanzhi , Lu Yesheng , Wang Zhihao , Liu Chang , Chen Yu , He Hongbo , Shao Jianda
Published: January 2024

Laser wireless power transmission (LWPT) systems have significant applications in the field of wireless energy transmission, including spacecraft sensor networks, satellite-to-satellite communication, and remote power supply. However, continuous laser exposure increases the temperature of the photovoltaic (PV) cells in the LWPT system, thus decreasing the electrical output performance. This work, which we believe is a new approach, is on the basis of a notch film designed by a combined merit function proposed to maintain the electrical output performance while under 1064-nm continuous laser irradiation. Moreover, the thermal stability of PV cells under laser irradiation was investigated, which revealed the recoverability of the open-circuit voltage (Voc) of the cells at different temperatures, and the thermal damage to cells was a gradual process. This process began with the vaporization of the encapsulation adhesive, followed by a decline in, but still recoverable and functional, electrical performance, and finally, the cell was completely damaged. The thermal stability of the PV cells coated with the notch film increased ten-fold compared to those without it. Furthermore, the correlation between the minimum Voc and maximum temperature of the cells with notch films of different performances was established. These investigations serve as references for further optimization of LWPT.
High precision microwave measurement based on nitrogen-vacancy color center and application in velocity detection
Authors: Zhang Hao , Li Zhonghao , Yang Chenyu , Ma Zongmin , Guo Hao , Wen Huanfei , Li Xin , Tang Jun , Liu Jun
Published: January 2024

Wide-range high-precision velocity detection with nitrogen-vacancy (NV) color center has been realized. By treating the NV color center as a mixer, the high-precision microwave measurement is realized. Through optimization of acquisition time, the microwave frequency resolution is improved to the mHz level. Combined with the frequency-velocity conversion model, velocity detection is realized in the range of 0-100 cm/s, and the velocity resolution is up to 0.012 cm/s. The maximum deviation in repeated measurements does not exceed 1/1000. Finally, combined with the multiplexed microwave reference technique, the range of velocity can be extended to 7.4 × 105 m/s. All of the results provide reference for high-precision velocity detection and play a significant role in various domains of quantum precision measurement. This study provides a crucial technical foundation for the development of high-dynamic-range velocity detectors and novel quantum precision velocity measurement technologies.
Optically biased and controlled signal processing in silicon photonics
Authors: Idres Samer , Habif Jonathan , Hashemi Hossein
Published: January 2024

Optically biased and controlled signal processing is demonstrated in a commercial foundry silicon photonics integrated circuit process. Data and control signals are carried by different wavelengths in a WDM format. Optical signals on bias and control channels are converted to electrical voltages using series stacked photodiodes operating in photoconductive mode. Two examples of this scheme, namely, an amplitude modulator and a two-tap sequence detector capable of supporting different modulation formats, are experimentally demonstrated. The amplitude modulator requires 0.25 mW of optical control signal power to tune its optical output power by 15 dB. The two-tap sequence detector maps the consecutive symbols of a modulated signal such as OOK, PAM-3, and PAM-4, to distinct levels. A maximum control signal power of 5 mW is needed to calibrate and bias the sequence detector. This latter scheme may be extended to detect longer sequences and other modulation formats.
Combination of near-infrared spectroscopy with Wasserstein generative adversarial networks for rapidly detecting raw material quality for formula products
Authors: Xin Xiaowei , Jia Junhua , Pang Shunpeng , Hu Ruotong , Gong Huili , Gao Xiaoyan , Ding Xiangqian
Published: January 2024

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has emerged as a key technique for rapid quality detection owing to its fast, non-destructive, and eco-friendly characteristics. However, its practical implementation within the formulation industry is challenging owing to insufficient data, which renders model fitting difficult. The complexity of acquiring spectra and spectral reference values results in limited spectral data, aggravating the problem of low generalization, which diminishes model performance. To address this problem, we introduce what we believe to be a novel approach combining NIRS with Wasserstein generative adversarial networks (WGANs). Specifically, spectral data are collected from representative samples of raw material provided by a formula enterprise. Then, the WGAN augments the database by generating synthetic data resembling the raw spectral data. Finally, we establish various prediction models using the PLSR, SVR, LightGBM, and XGBoost algorithms. Experimental results show the NIRS-WGAN method significantly improves the performance of prediction models, with R2 and RMSE of 0.949 and 1.415 for the chemical components of sugar, respectively, and 0.922 and 0.243 for nicotine. The proposed framework effectively enhances the predictive capabilities of various models, addressing the issue caused by limited training data in NIRS prediction tasks.
Fundamental probing limit on the high-order orbital angular momentum of light
Authors: Zhou Jingwen , Tang Jihong , Yin Yaling , Xia Yong , Yin Jianping
Published: January 2024

The orbital angular momentum (OAM) of light, possessing an infinite-dimensional degree of freedom, holds significant potential to enhance the capacity of optical communication and information processing in both classical and quantum regimes. Despite various methods developed to accurately measure OAM modes, the probing limit of the highest-order OAM remains an open question. Here, we report an accurate recognition of superhigh-order OAM using a convolutional neural network approach with an improved ResNeXt architecture, based on conjugated interference patterns. A type of hybrid beam carrying double OAM modes is utilized to provide more controllable degrees of freedom for greater recognition of the OAM modes. Our contribution advances the OAM recognition limit from manual counting to machine learning. Results demonstrate that, within our optical system, the maximum recognizable OAM modes exceed l = ±690 with an accuracy surpassing 99.93%, the highest achieved by spatial light modulator to date. Enlarging the active area of the CCD sensor extends the number of recognizable OAM modes to 1300, constrained only by the CCD resolution limit. Additionally, we explore the identification of fractional high-order OAM modes with a resolution of 0.1 from l = ±600.0 to l = ±600.9, achieving a high accuracy of 97.86%.
Adaptive real-time single-pixel imaging
Authors: Zhu Xinyi , Li Ying , Zhang Zibang , Zhong Jingang
Published: January 2024

For most imaging systems, there is a trade-off between spatial resolution, temporal resolution, and signal-to-noise ratio. Such a trade-off is particularly severe in single-pixel imaging systems, given the limited throughput of the only one available pixel. Here we report a real-time single-pixel imaging method that can adaptively balance the spatial resolution, temporal resolution, and signal-to-noise ratio of the imaging system according to the changes in the target scene. When scene changes are detected, the dynamic imaging mode will be activated. The temporal resolution will be given high priority and real-time single-pixel imaging will be conducted at a video frame rate (30 frames/s) to visualize the object motion. When no scene changes are detected, the static imaging mode will be activated. The spatial resolution and the signal-to-noise ratio will be progressively built up to resolve fine structures and to improve image quality. The proposed method not only adds practicability to single-pixel imaging, but also generates a new, to the best of our knowledge, insight in data redundancy reduction and information capacity improvement for other computational imaging schemes.
Recording animal-view videos of the natural world using a novel camera system and software package
Authors: Vasas Vera , Lowell Mark C. , Villa Juliana , Jamison Quentin D. , Siegle Anna G. , Katta Pavan Kumar Reddy , Bhagavathula Pushyami , Kevan Peter G. , Fulton Drew , Losin Neil , Kepplinger David , Yetzbacher Michael K. , Salehian Shakiba , Forkner Rebecca E. , Hanley Daniel
Published: January 2024

Plants, animals, and fungi display a rich tapestry of colors. Animals, in particular, use colors in dynamic displays performed in spatially complex environments. Although current approaches for studying colors are objective and repeatable, they miss the temporal variation of color signals entirely. Here, we introduce hardware and software that provide ecologists and filmmakers the ability to accurately record animal-perceived colors in motion. Specifically, our Python codes transform photos or videos into perceivable units (quantum catches) for animals of known photoreceptor sensitivity. The plans and codes necessary for end-users to capture animal-view videos are all open source and publicly available to encourage continual community development. The camera system and the associated software package will allow ecologists to investigate how animals use colors in dynamic behavioral displays, the ways natural illumination alters perceived colors, and other questions that remained unaddressed until now due to a lack of suitable tools. Finally, it provides scientists and filmmakers with a new, empirically grounded approach for depicting the perceptual worlds of nonhuman animals.
Killer prey: Ecology reverses bacterial predation
Authors: Vasse Marie , Fiegna Francesca , Kriesel Ben , Velicer Gregory J.
Published: January 2024

Ecological variation influences the character of many biotic interactions, but examples of predator–prey reversal mediated by abiotic context are few. We show that the temperature at which prey grow before interacting with a bacterial predator can determine the very direction of predation, reversing predator and prey identities. While Pseudomonas fluorescens reared at 32°C was extensively killed by the generalist predator Myxococcus xanthus, P. fluorescens reared at 22°C became the predator, slaughtering M. xanthus to extinction and growing on its remains. Beyond M. xanthus, diffusible molecules in P. fluorescens supernatant also killed 2 other phylogenetically distant species among several examined. Our results suggest that the sign of lethal microbial antagonisms may often change across abiotic gradients in natural microbial communities, with important ecological and evolutionary implications. They also suggest that a larger proportion of microbial warfare results in predation—the killing and consumption of organisms—than is generally recognized.
Lyssa excreta: Defining parameters for fecal samples as a rabies virus surveillance method
Authors: Walker Faith M. , Upton Jordyn R. , Erickson Daryn , Barrand Zachary A. , Brock Breezy , Valentine Michael , Federman Emma L. , Froehlich Emma M. , Van Pelt Lolita , Hastings Lias , Sanchez Daniel E. , Bergman David L. , Engelthaler David M. , Hepp Crystal M.
Published: January 2024

It is not possible to systematically screen the environment for rabies virus (RABV) using current approaches. We sought to determine under what conditions RABV is detectable from feces and other accessible samples from infected wildlife to broaden the number of biological samples that could be used to test for RABV. We employed a recently-developed quantitative RT-PCR assay called the “LN34 panlyssavirus real-time RT-PCR assay”, which is highly sensitive and specific for all variants of RABV. We harvested and tested brain tissue, fecal, and/or mouth swab samples from 25 confirmed RABV positive bats of six species. To determine if rabies RNA lasts in feces sufficiently long post-defecation to use it as a surveillance tool, we tested fecal samples from 10 bats at the time of sample collection and after 24 hours of exposure to ambient conditions, with an additional test on six bats out to 72 hours. To assess whether we could pool fecal pellets and still detect a positive, we generated dilutions of known positives at 1:1, 1:10, 1:50, and 1:200. For six individuals for which matched brain, mouth swab, and fecal samples were tested, results were positive for 100%, 67%, and 67%, respectively. For the first time test to 24 hours, 63% of feces that were positive at time 0 were still positive after 24 hours, and 50% of samples at 72 hours were positive across all three replicates. Pooling tests revealed that fecal positives were detected at 1:10 dilution, but not at 1:50 or 1:200. Our preliminary results suggest that fecal samples hold promise for a rapid and non-invasive environmental screening system.
Side-by-side comparison of published small molecule inhibitors against thapsigargin-induced store-operated Ca2+ entry in HEK293 cells
Authors: Norman Katherine , Hemmings Karen E. , Shawer Heba , Appleby Hollie L. , Burnett Alan J. , Hamzah Nurasyikin , Gosain Rajendra , Woodhouse Emily M. , Beech David J. , Foster Richard , Bailey Marc A.
Published: January 2024

Calcium (Ca2+) is a key second messenger in eukaryotes, with store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) being the main source of Ca2+ influx into non-excitable cells. ORAI1 is a highly Ca2+-selective plasma membrane channel that encodes SOCE. It is ubiquitously expressed in mammals and has been implicated in numerous diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer. A number of small molecules have been identified as inhibitors of SOCE with a variety of potential therapeutic uses proposed and validated in vitro and in vivo. These encompass both nonselective Ca2+ channel inhibitors and targeted selective inhibitors of SOCE. Inhibition of SOCE can be quantified both directly and indirectly with a variety of assay setups, making an accurate comparison of the activity of different SOCE inhibitors challenging. We have used a fluorescence based Ca2+ addback assay in native HEK293 cells to generate dose-response data for many published SOCE inhibitors. We were able to directly compare potency. Most compounds were validated with only minor and expected variations in potency, but some were not. This could be due to differences in assay setup relating to the mechanism of action of the inhibitors and highlights the value of a singular approach to compare these compounds, as well as the general need for biorthogonal validation of novel bioactive compounds. The compounds observed to be the most potent against SOCE in our study were: 7-azaindole 14d (12), JPIII (17), Synta-66 (6), Pyr 3 (5), GSK5503A (8), CM4620 (14) and RO2959 (7). These represent the most promising candidates for future development of SOCE inhibitors for therapeutic use.
Surgical and per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for the treatment of primary esophageal motility disorders: A systematic analysis of current trends in Germany between 2011 and 2019
Authors: Kandler Jennis , Essing Tobias , Schöler David , Flügen Georg , Knoefel Wolfram T. , Roderburg Christoph , Luedde Tom , Loosen Sven H.
Published: January 2024

Background/Aims

While surgery remains a standard treatment for primary esophageal motility disorders (PEMDs), per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has recently evolved as an alternative. Systematic data on current trends of invasive procedures for PEMDs in Germany are missing.

Methods

Hospital discharge data were used to evaluate trends and mortality of invasive treatment options for PEMDs in Germany between 2011 and 2019.

Results

4543 cases of PEMDs (achalasia: n = 4349, dyskinesia of the esophagus: n = 194) receiving open surgery (n = 200), minimal invasive surgery (n = 2366), or POEM (n = 1977) were identified. The relative proportion of POEM significantly increased from 10.9% (2011) to 65.7% (2019). Hospital mortality was 0.2%. The median duration of mechanical ventilation was significantly lower in POEM patients (29.4 hours) compared to open (274.0 hours) or minimal invasive (91.9 hours) surgery. The duration of hospitalization was lowest among POEM patients (5.7 days) compared to surgical procedures (13.7 and 7.7 days).

Conclusion

While the low in-hospital mortality of all procedures combined confirms the solid safety profile of invasive procedures in general, our findings show that POEM has the lowest duration of mechanical ventilation and hospitalization compared to invasive surgical options.
El Imperio mongol y la formación de Occidente. Una actualización historiográfica
Authors: Garcia Espada Antonio
Published: January 2024

Ante la exuberante producción historiográfica de la última década este artículo se propone identificar nuevos consensos, líneas de fuerza y posibles hipótesis sobre algunos de los principales puntos de contacto del Imperio mongol con el Occidente latino. Nuevos trabajos, algunos realmente rompedores, sobre la Horda Dorada y el Ilkhanato, sobre la praxis comercial y la sensibilidad religiosa de los khanes, su imaginación geográfica y sus concepciones antropológicas, aportan valiosas claves hermenéuticas con importantes implicaciones también para el estudio del éxito de las ligas y las repúblicas comerciales latinas, de la transformación de la cruzada a finales del siglo XIII o del origen de una auténtica ideología misionera con un futuro prometedor en la historia de Occidente. Estos nuevos planteamientos son posibles gracias también a una mirada oblicua, alentada por el estudio de fenómenos tan complejos como el Imperio mongol, y que con la producción de nuevas continuidades abre insospechadas posibilidades de ampliación y enriquecimiento historiográfico.
As Fases de Desenvolvimento da Libido e a Formação do Caráter
Authors: De Paula Tramujas Marco Antonio , Valeski de Alencar Cristian Guilherme
Published: January 2024

A psicologia corporal utiliza o conceito de caráter como forma de nominar os mais marcantes traços de personalidade ou de comportamento de um indivíduo, correlacionando-os com as experiências emocionais vividas durante seu desenvolvimento psicossexual na infância. Em lugar do termo “desenvolvimento psicossexual” pode-se utilizar “fases de desenvolvimento da libido”, visto que a libido se desenvolve, no sentido de que buscará satisfação em sucessivas regiões erógenas do corpo, até finalmente alcançar a região genital. Este artigo visa descrever o processo de desenvolvimento da libido, as formas pelas quais a pulsão sexual poderá encontrar a plena satisfação em cada fase, bem como as possíveis frustrações que possam decorrer da relação entre a busca pulsional e as possibilidades oferecidas pelo ambiente. Das frustrações poderão resultar fixações, as quais constituirão o caráter. Serão descritos os principais sintomas decorrentes das frustrações libidinais e as denominações caracterológicas mais comumente adotadas em cada caso.
The athletic consul: a new role in sports organizations
Authors: Baghurst Timothy , Cacho Frances , Griffin Adrian
Published: January 2024

Sports organizations are complex. In addition to the actual coaching of athletes, many utilize a myriad of different administrative and sport science departments or areas of expertise to aid in the achievement of success. Examples include sports administration, nutrition, strength and conditioning, sport psychology, counseling, athletic training, to name a few. Consequently, there are many voices within the organization, and communication and effectiveness may be affected by silos, fear of voicing opinions, or other chal¬lenges that come from the stresses and rigors of athletic competition. Anecdotally, we have noticed the often-informal introduction of an individual into some sports organizations and teams to help support the overall organization and its personnel. This individual does not necessarily have decision-making pow¬ers, but serves as a conduit of information, a supporter, and an advisor to all parties. To date, a specific title for this position has not been formally recognized, nor have its roles or responsibilities been defined. There¬fore, the purpose of this conceptual article is to propose a name for this position, which we have termed Athletic Consul (AC). Further, we outline why such a position is valuable, its fit within an athletic program, the roles and responsibilities of the position, and why it is necessary for such this position be formalized.
Recenze: Christian Danz – Werner Schüßler (eds.): Paul Tillich in Dresden. Intellektuellen-Diskurse in der Weimarer Republik
Authors: Thümmel Jan
Published: January 2024

Recenze: Christian Danz – Werner Schüßler (eds.): Paul Tillich in Dresden. Intellektuellen-Diskurse in der Weimarer Republik
Evaluation of antibacterial and antifungal activities of Pistacia atlantica and Pistacia khinjuk
Authors: Dalvand Hamid , Hamdi Seyed Mohammad Mahdi , Nori kotanaee Fatemeh , Ahmadvand Hassan
Published: January 2024

Medicinal plants are renowned for their various therapeutic properties, including antibacterial and antifungal activities. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial and antifungal activities of P. atlantica and P. khinjuk. Hydroalcoholic extracts of P. atlantica and P. khinjuk were prepared to assess their antibacterial and antifungal activities. Standard strains of Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Aspergillus flavus were utilized for the evaluation of antibacterial and antifungal activities. The inhibitory effects of the extracts on the growth of bacterial and fungal strains were evaluated using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) through a 96-well microplate analysis following CLSI guidelines. Our findings revealed that the MICs and MBCs of P. atlantica and P. khinjuk for bacterial strains ranged from 0 to 64 mg/mL. Additionally, the MIC and MFC values for fungal strains ranged from 16 to 64 mg/mL. The results indicated that Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumonia were the most sensitive bacterial strains to P. atlantica. Furthermore, Aspergillus flavus was identified as the most sensitive fungal strain to P. atlantica. In conclusion, these findings suggest that P. atlantica and P. khinjuk possess antibacterial and antifungal effects. The paper argues that these plant extracts could be used as a supplementary treatment alongside conventional antibacterial and antifungal drugs.
Contribution to the knowledge on butterflies and moths (Insecta: Lepidoptera) of the upper course of the Neretva River, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Dukić Branislava , Kunz Gernot
Published: January 2024

The results of a biodiversity survey on butterflies and moths from the upper course of the Neretva River in Bosnia and Herzegovina are presented. This survey was conducted between 27.6. and 3.7.2022, at seven localities between Krupac and Glavatičevo. In total, 251 species were recorded, ten of which are first records for the country: Limnaecia phragmitella (Cosmopterigidae), Crambus uliginosellus (Crambidae), Philereme vetulata (Geometridae), Micropterix myrtetella (Micropterigidae), Ponometia candefacta (Noctuidae), Crassa unitella (Oecophoridae), Rhigognostis hufnagelii (Plutellidae), Acrobasis repandana (Pyralidae), Tinea trinotella (Tineidae), Acleris forsskaleana (Tortricidae). Two species, namely Diacrisia purpurata (Erebidae) and Aristotelia decurtella (Gelechiidae) were rediscovered after more than 100 years. Three are on the list as Protected Species of Flora and Fauna of the Republic of Srpska and six on the European Red List of Butterflies: five having the status »near-threatened«, and one the status »vulnerable«. In this contribution, we discuss the problem of losing important habitats due to planned construction of mini hydropower plants in the region.
Phytochemicals profiling, in vitro and in vivo antidiabetic activity, and in silico studies on Ajuga iva (L.) Schreb.: A comprehensive approach
Authors: Abomughaid Mosleh M. , El-Shibani Fatma A. A. , Abdulkarim Abdulnaser Kh. , Abouzied Amr S. , Sulaiman Ghassan M. , Abomughayedh Ali M. , Abdulsayid Munira M. F. , Albukhaty Salim , Elrmali Naema , Al-Saffar Ali Z. , El-khawaga Hend A. , Mohammed Hamdoon A.
Published: January 2024

Ajuga iva (L.) Schreb. is a well-known antidiabetic medicinal plant used for several traditional medicine aspects in different areas of the world, including Libya. This study includes phytochemical analysis, antidiabetic evaluation, and in silico studies of the plant, A. iva, growing in Libya. The constituents of the plant were profiled using LC-MS/MS-QTOF analysis, and a total of 28 compounds were tentatively identified, including engeletin, pyrocatechol, eriodyctiol-7-hexoside, and 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, as major constituents. In addition, the steroidal compounds, i.e., 20-hydroxyecdysone, 24-dehydroprecyasterone, makisterone A, and ajugasterone D, which are considered chemomarkers for the plant, were also annotated by LC-MS analysis. The plant extract induced inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes at IC50 values of 0.18 and 0.12 mg/mL, compared to the IC50 of the standard acarbose at 0.11 and 0.09 mg/mL, respectively. Fasting blood glucose (FBG, 360.7 mg/dL) levels were significantly reduced by the treatment of streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic animals with 400 mg/kg (140.5 mg/dl) and 500 mg/kg (112.3 mg/dL) doses of the plant extract. The plant extract also induced a significant (p < 0.01) increase in insulin serum level compared to the untreated diabetic rats; however, the higher dose of the plant induced similar insulin induction compared to glibenclamide. Histopathological examination of the pancreatic and liver tissues indicated that A. iva extract induced regeneration in the islets of Langerhans and liver cells compared to the untreated diabetic rats. Docking analysis demonstrated that eriodyctiol-7-hexoside, echinacoside, and 2″-galloylhyperin showed the lowest binding energies to the target sites of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, indicating their potential role in A. iva antidiabetic bioactivities. The results support the recorded traditional bioactivity of A. iva as an antidiabetic herb, whereas its contents of polyphenols play a major role in the plant’s antidiabetic effect.
Enhancing weld strength in high-strength steels: the role of regional preheating in RSW
Authors: Aydin Kemal , Hıdıroğlu Mehtap , Kahraman Nizamettin
Published: January 2024

In this study, automotive in sector use STRENX 700 CR and DP 800 steels were joined by resistance spot welding using medium frequency direct current. Some parts were joined under atmospheric conditions, while others were joined by applying regional preheating to their heat-affected zones before welding. The design, manufacturing, and adaptation of the preheating system to the welding machine were carried out as part of this study, considering it as a new system. After the joining process, nondestructive and destructive tests were performed on resistance spot welding connections between STRENX 700 CR and DP 800 steels. Hardness tests revealed that the preheating applied to the heat-affected zones before welding reduced the hardness of the weld metal by approximately 8 %, while the microstructure analysis showed that the regional preheating increased both the weld metal and the heat-affected zones width. The tensile-shear strength increased by about 7 %, and the cross-tension test strength increased by about 5 % with the preheating applied to the heat-affected zones before welding. In both the tensile-shear and cross-tension tests, all failures occurred in the form of button shearing from the heat-affected zones. The regional preheating treated specimens showed the highest fatigue life, with an average of 947,632 cycles.
Efficient radiative cooling of low-cost BaSO4 paint-paper dual-layer thin films
Authors: Felicelli Andrea , Wang Jie , Feng Dudong , Forti Endrina , El Awad Azrak Sami , Peoples Joseph , Youngblood Jeffrey , Chiu George , Ruan Xiulin
Published: January 2024

Many materials have been explored for the purpose of creating structures with high radiative cooling potential, such as nanocellulose-based structures and nanoparticle-based coatings, which have been reported with environmentally friendly attributes and high solar reflectance in current literature. They each have their own advantages and disadvantages in practice. It is worth noting that nanocellulose-based structures have an absorption peak in the UV wavelengths, which results in a lower total solar reflectance and, consequently, reduce radiative cooling capabilities. However, the interwoven-fiber structure of cellulose gives high mechanical strength, which promotes its application in different scenarios. The application of nanoplatelet-based coatings is limited due to the need for high volume of nanoparticles to reach their signature high solar reflectance. This requirement weakens the polymer matrix and results in more brittle structures. This work proposes a dual-layer system, comprising of a cellulose-based substrate as the bottom layer and a thin nanoparticle-based radiative cooling paint as the top layer, where both radiative cooling potential and mechanical strength can be maximized. Experimental and theoretical studies are conducted to investigate the relationship between thickness and reflectance in the top coating layer with a consistent thickness of the bottom layer. The saturation point is identified in this relationship and used to determine the optimal thickness for the top-layer to maximize material use efficiency. With the use of cotton paper painted with a 125 μm BaSO4-based layer, the cooling performance is enhanced to be 149.6 W/m2 achieved by the improved total solar reflectance from 80 % to 93 %.
Electrically-switched differential microscopy based on computing liquid-crystal platforms
Authors: Liu Shuoqing , Zheng Dandan , Yang Qiang , Chen Shizhen , Wen Shuangchun , Luo Hailu
Published: January 2024

Detection of transparent phase specimens especially biological cells with desired contrasts is of great importance in visual display and medical diagnosis. Due to the pure-phase nature, conventional detection approaches may damage samples or require complex operations. Computing liquid crystal (LC) is a thin and flat optical element with excellent capability in optical field modulation, which gives a feasible way to this issue from the perspective of analog optical computing. We here propose and experimentally implement an electrically switched two-dimensional (2D) differential microscopy based on computing LC platforms. The Pancharatnam–Berry phase LC polarization grating induces light’s spin separation to promote the 2D differential operation. Using the electrically tunable LC plate as the system phase retardance provider, the detecting mode can be flexibly switched from bright-field images to edge-enhanced images with desired contrasts. Remarkably, owing to the wavelength-independent feature closely related to the geometric phases, our proposed scheme is demonstrated to be applicable to the multi-wavelength microscopy imaging. These results open avenues to form real-time all-optical image processing and may facilitate multifunctional differential microscopy.
Mesenchymal stem cell exosomes: a promising delivery system for glioma therapy
Authors: Ma Tianfei , Su Gang , Wu Qionghui , Shen Minghui , Feng Xinli , Zhang Zhenchang
Published: January 2024

Gliomas are particularly challenging due to their high invasiveness, frequent recurrence, and elevated mortality rates. Despite the availability of treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, each of these methods faces significant limitations. This has led to a pressing demand for new strategies against gliomas. In this landscape, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown significant potential in recent years. However, the application of MSCs in glioma therapy encounters various challenges. A significant advancement in this field is the utilization of exosomes (Exo), key secretions of MSCs. These exosomes not only carry the benefits inherent in MSCs but also exhibit unique physicochemical properties that make them effective drug carriers. Consequently, MSCs Exo is gaining recognition as a sophisticated drug delivery system, specifically designed for glioma treatment. The scope of MSCs Exo goes beyond being just an innovative drug delivery mechanism; it also shows potential as a standalone therapeutic option. This article aims to provide a detailed summary of the essential role of MSCs Exo in glioma progression and its growing importance as a drug delivery carrier in the fight against this formidable disease.
Synthesis, crystal structure and luminescent properties of a quinary borate-phosphate compound CsNa2Dy2(BO3)(PO4)2
Authors: Liu Kai , Yang Shipeng , Tian Junfeng , Zhang Peixin , Hei Xiaohan , Jiang Zhongfeng
Published: January 2024

Borate-phosphates exhibit a wide range of compositional and structural diversity, making them ideal hosts for luminescent materials. In this work, a new borate-phosphate compound CsNa2Dy2(BO3)(PO4)2 has been prepared under high temperature solution growth method. It crystallizes in an orthorhombic space group Cmcm with the following lattice parameters determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction: a = 6.9709(5), b = 14.9699(11), c = 10.6480(8) Å, z = 4. Its structure contains isolated BO3 planar triangles and PO4 tetrahedra, which are interconnected by Cs+, Na+ and Dy3+ ions. Solid solutions of CsNa2Y2(1−x)Dy2x
(BO3)(PO4)2 (x = 0 − 0.08) are prepared and exhibit a yellow emissive luminescence by near-UV excitation due to the 4F9/2 → 6H(13/2, 15/2) transitions of Dy3+. The optimized concentration of Dy3+ is x = 0.01, and if over this critical value, the luminescent intensity will decrease due to concentration quenching. The Commission International de L’Eclairage (CIE) coordinates for CsNa2Y1.98Dy0.02(BO3)(PO4)2 are (x = 0.377, y = 0.404), corresponding to yellow color. The prepared phosphor may serve as a yellow phosphor for NUV-excited LEDs.
Making wine in earthenware vessels: a comparative approach to Roman vinification
Authors: Van Limbergen Dimitri , Komar Paulina
Published: January 2024

Wine was deeply embedded in all aspects of Roman life and its role in society, culture and the economy has been much studied. Ancient Roman texts and archaeological research provide valuable insights into viticulture and the manufacture, trade and consumption of wine but little is known of the sensory nature of this prized commodity. Here, the authors offer a novel oenological approach to the study of Roman dolia through their comparison with modern Georgian qvevri and associated wine-production techniques. Far from being mundane storage vessels, dolia were precisely engineered containers whose composition, size and shape all contributed to the successful production of diverse wines with specific organoleptic characteristics.
Evaluation of the penetration depth of Guttaflow bioseal and Bioceramic sealers using scanning electron microscope (in vitro study).
Authors:   Department of Conservative Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan Region., Saeed Razawa Kareem
Published: January 2024

Background and objective: Three-dimensional obturation of the canal is mandatory in root canal treatment to decrease failure rate, the major cause of root canal reinfection after obturation is insufficient obturation of the canal which later leads to a periapical lesion and reinfection.This study aimed to evaluate the penetration depth of Guttaflow bioseal and Bioceramic sealer. Methods: Twenty extracted single-rooted human teeth (mandibular first premolar) were used in this study, teeth were decornated leaving 10 mm root length. The chemico-mechanical preparation of the samples was done by using a protaper universal system till size F1 and then samples were divided into 2 groups (n = 10), according to the filling material in the first group Guttaflow bioseal used while in the second group Onefil bioceramic sealer used the sealers introduced into canals according to manufactures instructions and then obturated with gutta-percha size F1, single condensation technique used and finally samples were cross- sectioned at 3 and 7 mm, sealers penetration depth was measured by using scanning electron microscope. Result: Independent sample t-test shows that the difference between the penetration depth of guttaflow bioseal and bioceramic sealers are non-significant while the ANOVA test shows that the difference between the three sections of the root is highly significant for both sealer, coronal section shows the best result for Guttaflow bioseal while middle section for Bioceramic shows the best result of penetration. Conclusion: There are no difference in sealer penetration of both sealers Guttaflow bioseal and Onefil bioceramic, while regarding sealer penetration in each sections of root for Guttaflow bioseal in coronal section shows a best penetration, for Onefil bioceramic middle section shows a best penetration.
Oscillatory Waveform Shape and Temporal Spike Correlations Differ across Bat Frontal and Auditory Cortex
Authors: García-Rosales Francisco , Schaworonkow Natalie , Hechavarria Julio C.
Published: January 2024

Neural oscillations are associated with diverse computations in the mammalian brain. The waveform shape of oscillatory activity measured in the cortex relates to local physiology and can be informative about aberrant or dynamically changing states. However, how waveform shape differs across distant yet functionally and anatomically related cortical regions is largely unknown. In this study, we capitalize on simultaneous recordings of local field potentials (LFPs) in the auditory and frontal cortices of awake, maleCarollia perspicillatabats to examine, on a cycle-by-cycle basis, waveform shape differences across cortical regions. We find that waveform shape differs markedly in the fronto-auditory circuit even for temporally correlated rhythmic activity in comparable frequency ranges (i.e., in the delta and gamma bands) during spontaneous activity. In addition, we report consistent differences between areas in the variability of waveform shape across individual cycles. A conceptual model predicts higher spike–spike and spike–LFP correlations in regions with more asymmetric shapes, a phenomenon that was observed in the data: spike–spike and spike–LFP correlations were higher in the frontal cortex. The model suggests a relationship between waveform shape differences and differences in spike correlations across cortical areas. Altogether, these results indicate that oscillatory activity in the frontal and auditory cortex possesses distinct dynamics related to the anatomical and functional diversity of the fronto-auditory circuit.
Features of microcirculatory responses in experimental wound area in white rats
Authors: Loiko Darya D. , Savkina Angelina A. , Stepanova Tatyana V. , Kiriyazi Tatyana S. , Osnovin Oleg V. , Andronova Tamara A. , Abdrakhmanova Ilmira I. , Fedorov Artyom N. , Ivanov Aleksey N.
Published: January 2024

Objective: to examine changes in the microcirculatory bed parameters via laser Doppler flowmetry in the course of wound healing and the possibility of their use for upgrading the technology of evaluating the effectiveness of wound healing agents.
Materials and Methods. The studies were performed on 25 white rats distributed between two groups: 10 control animals (intact rats) and 15 animals with a full-thickness experimental skin defect. The microcirculation parameters in the skin of experimental wound edges in rats were evaluated using laser Doppler flowmetry, and histological preparations of tissues in the wound area were analyzed.
Results. Changes in skin microcirculation at the wound edges were characterized by inflammatory hyperemia manifested by an increase in the perfusion index by 27% and augmented normalized amplitudes of myogenic, respiratory and cardiogenic oscillations. Changes in microcirculation were verified by the morphological picture of inflammation, which reflects an increase in the number of vessels fully filled with arterial and venous blood, as well as in leukocyte infiltration of the wound edges and bottom.
Conclusion. Monitoring of microcirculatory disorders occurring in the area of skin wounds allows assessing the dynamics of the reparative process, which could be used for developing and evaluating the effectiveness of existing medicamentous and non-medicamentous methods of stimulating regeneration.
Application of intratissue electrostimulation in the treatment of chronic post-traumatic bone pain syndrome at stages II-III of medical rehabilitation
Authors: Burmatov Nikita  A. , Sergeev Konstantin  S. , Gerasimov Andrey A. , Kopylov Semyon A. , Spiridonova Natalia A.
Published: January 2024

Objective: to improve the outcomes of medical rehabilitation of mature second-degree patients with spi¬nal cord injury complicated by emotional-volitional disorders in the long-term period of injury, by applying intrathecal electrostimulation. Material and methods. The results of intrathecal electrostimulation in the treatment of chronic bone pain syndrome complicated by the development of anxiety-depressive disorders in patients with mono- and bisegmental fractures of the A1 and A2 types of lumbar vertebrae (according to Magerl) were studied. Two groups of patients (n=36) comparable in gender, age, and degree of functional impairment in the age range from 45 to 65 years were the objects of the study. Intrathecal electrostimulation was used as monotherapy in the patients of the main group (n=17). Patients included in the comparison group (n=19) received treatment corresponding to stages II-III of medical rehabilitation. Pain intensity was assessed by measuring the electrical potential of the skin and using the VAS scale. The degree of anxiety-depressive disorder was determined by a specialized questionnaire, Simptom Check List-90-Revised. Quality of life was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index. Results. Positive treatment outcomes in the form of reduced anxiety were achieved in 100% (n=17) of patients in the main group and 53% (n=9) in the comparison group (p=0.05). Pain syndrome was eliminated in more patients in the main group (n=17) compared to (n=11) in the com-parison group. There was a difference in a number of numerical measures of quality of life and patient satisfaction with the treatment received: the value (vector) of the level of rehabilitation potential and the value of the outcome level at p=0.01. Conclusion. An effective, pathogenetically grounded technique for rehabilitation of patients with spinal column injuries was proposed, and the tactics of applying intratissue stimulation to mature and elderly patients with disorders of the emotional-volitional sphere at the outpatient stage of rehabilitation treatment was developed.
A corpus-based analysis of light verb constructions with MAKE and DO in British English
Authors: Giparaitė Judita
Published: January 2024

The comparison of light verb constructions with the verbs make and do has not received much attention. The present paper is an attempt to contribute to the study of these constructions. It aims to analyze the light verbs make and do in combination with the same deverbal nouns to identify similarities and differences between the two light verbs and examine the contribution of the light verbs and deverbal nouns to the light verb construction in terms of semantic and syntactic features. The research is corpus-based, and the data for analysis are collected from the British National Corpus (BNC). The semantic description deals with characteristics such as generality, polysemy and aspectual meaning, and the syntactic description focuses on complementation. The analysis of findings demonstrates that, despite some similarities, almost all constructions with the two light verbs show either meaning or/and complementation differences. The study also reveals that both light verbs and deverbal nouns have an impact on the semantics and syntax of the construction. Light verbs may affect light verb constructions semantically in terms of generality and polysemy, and the aspectual meaning of constructions depends on both light verbs and deverbal nouns. Likewise, both light verbs and deverbal nouns have an influence on complementation, but in their own way: light verbs on the selection of complements and deverbal nouns on complementation patterns.
Asymptotic normality of the LSE for chirp signal parameters
Authors: Ivanov Alexander , Hladun Viktor
Published: January 2024

A time continuous statistical model of chirp signal observed against the background of stationary Gaussian noise is considered in the paper. Asymptotic normality of the LSE for parameters of such a sinusoidal regression model is obtained.