bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Conventional Prognostic Markers in Life-Threatening COVID-19 Cases—When Less Is More
Authors: Rozanovic Martin , Várady-Szabó Kata , Domokos Kamilla , Kiss Tamás , Loibl Csaba , Márovics Gergely , Rendeki Szilárd , Csontos Csaba
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: In this study, we aimed to compare the predictive power of non-conventional (neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio—NLR; platelet/lymphocyte ratio—PLR) and conventional markers (C-reactive protein—CRP; procalcitonin—PCT; interleukin-6—IL-6) in terms of disease progression and mortality in severe SARS-CoV-2 patients. Methods: In this prospective observatory study, blood samples were collected daily, focusing on the established inflammatory markers. Critically ill COVID-19 patients who required ICU admission were included. Patient treatment followed established COVID-19 protocols, and the data analysis was performed using SPSS with non-normal distribution methods. The study cohort primarily included patients infected with the delta variant. Results: A mortality rate of 76.6% was observed among 167 patients during the study period. Significant differences in conventional and non-conventional markers between survivor and non-survivor groups were observed. The PCT levels were significantly elevated (p < 0.005) in the deceased group. Among the non-conventional markers, the NLR was consistently higher in non-survivors and emerged as a significant predictor of mortality, whereas the PLR was not elevated among the non-survivors. ROC analyses indicated that PCT and the NLR were the markers with the highest predictive power for mortality. The multivariate logistic regression analysis identified NLR, PCT, CRP, and IL-6 as significant predictors of mortality across different days. The NLR showed a consistent, though not always statistically significant, association with increased mortality risk, particularly on Days 2 and 5. Conclusions: The NLR’s accessibility and simplicity of determination make it a valuable and practical tool for monitoring inflammatory processes in viral infections. Our findings suggest that incorporating NLR analysis into routine clinical practice could enhance the early identification of high-risk patients, thereby improving patient management and outcomes.
The Homeostasis-Enrichment-Plasticity (HEP®) Approach for Premature Infants with Developmental Risks: A Pre-Post Feasibility Study
Authors: Balikci Aymen , May-Benson Teresa A. , Sirma Gamze Cagla , Kardas Ayten , Demirbas Duygu , Aracikul Balikci Ayse Firdevs , Ilbay Gul , Sozen Hatice Gulhan , Beaudry-Bellefeuille Isabelle
Published: September 2024

Background: The environmental enrichment (EE) framework has inspired several early intervention (EI) approaches. This study evaluated the feasibility, safety, caregiver acceptance, and satisfaction of implementing the HEP Approach intervention, a novel EI model based on the EE paradigm. Outcome measures for motor development, individual functional goals, sensory functions, caregiver-provided environmental affordances, and motivation for movement were examined. Methods: A pre-post-study design examined 18 premature infants (<33 weeks six days gestation) with a corrected age of 4–10 months. A 21-item Likert scale survey assessed the feasibility, safety, acceptability, and satisfaction of implementing the HEP Approach intervention. The Peabody Developmental Motor Scales-2, Test of Sensory Functions in Infants, Affordances in the Home Environment for Motor Development, and Infant Movement Motivation Questionnaire were used for outcomes. The goal attainment scale measured progress toward parent goals. The HEP Approach consisted of 12 one-hour sessions implemented over three months. Results: Most participating parents found the HEP Approach intervention feasible, safe, acceptable, and satisfactory. GAS scores demonstrated significant gains with a mean t-score of 67.75 (SD = 2.00). Results found significant improvement (p ≤ 0.05) in all outcome measures. Conclusions: Results suggest that the HEP Approach intervention is safe, feasible, and acceptable to implement. Outcome measures were meaningful and sensitive in identifying improved motor development, individualized parental goals, sensory functions, caregivers’ use of environmental opportunities, and movement motivation in premature at-risk infants. Results suggest further studies on the HEP Approach are feasible, and highlight the potential of this intervention to inspire and guide future research in this field.
Advancements in Modern Treatment Approaches for Central Post-Stroke Pain: A Narrative Review
Authors: Asadauskas Auste , Stieger Andrea , Luedi Markus M. , Andereggen Lukas
Published: September 2024

Purpose of Review: Central post-stroke pain (CPSP) poses a multifaceted challenge in medical practice, necessitating a thorough and multidisciplinary approach for its diagnosis and treatment. This review examines current methods for addressing CPSP, highlighting both pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies. It covers the mechanisms and clinical effectiveness of these treatments in managing CPSP and emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment plans, given the varied causes of CPSP. Recent Findings: Recent advancements have illuminated diverse treatment modalities for CPSP. Pharmacotherapy spans from conventional analgesics to anticonvulsants and antidepressants, tailored to mitigate the neuropathic characteristics of CPSP. Non-pharmacological interventions, including physical therapy and psychological strategies, are pivotal in managing CPSP’s chronic nature. For cases resistant to standard treatments, advanced interventions such as nerve blocks and surgical procedures like deep brain stimulation (DBS) or motor cortex stimulation (MCS) are considered. Additionally, innovative technologies such as neuromodulation techniques and personalized medicine are emerging as promising avenues to enhance therapeutic outcomes and improve quality of life for individuals grappling with CPSP. Summary: Modern approaches in managing CPSP require an interdisciplinary and patient-centric approach. Customizing treatment plans to address the specific etiology and symptoms of CPSP is crucial. Pharmacotherapy remains fundamental, encompassing medications such as anticonvulsants and antidepressants tailored to manage neuropathic pain. Integrating non-pharmacological interventions is crucial for providing comprehensive care. Additionally, investigating innovative technologies and personalized medicine presents promising opportunities to enhance treatment results and elevate the quality of life for those suffering from CPSP. Ultimately, an integrated approach that acknowledges the multifaceted nature of CPSP is essential for effective management and patient well-being.
Left Atrial Wall Thickness Estimated by Cardiac CT: Implications for Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Silva Cunha Pedro , Laranjo Sérgio , Monteiro Sofia , Almeida Inês Grácio , Mendonça Tiago , Fontes Iládia , Ferreira Rui Cruz , Almeida Ana G. , Didenko Maxim , Oliveira Mário Martins
Published: September 2024

Atrial wall thickness (AWT) is a significant factor in understanding the pathological physiological substrate of atrial fibrillation, with a potentially substantial impact on the outcomes of catheter ablation procedures. Precise measurements of the AWT may provide valuable insights for categorising patients with AF and planning targeted interventions. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of the left atrium (LA) using non-invasive multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) scans and subsequent three-dimensional (3D) image post-processing using novel software designed to calculate atrial thickness dimensions and mass. Methods: We retrospectively analysed 128 consecutive patients (33.6% females; mean age 55.6 ± 11.2 years) referred for AF ablation (37 with persistent AF and 91 with paroxysmal AF) who underwent preprocedural MDCT. The images were post-processed and analysed using the ADAS software (Galgo Medical), automatically calculating the LA volume and regional wall thickness. In addition, the software employed a regional semi-automatic LA parcellation feature that divided the atrial wall into 12 segments, generating atrial wall thickness (AWT) maps per segment for each patient. Results: This study demonstrated considerable variability in the average thickness of LA walls, with the anterior segments being the thickest across the cohort. Distinct sex-specific differences were observed, with males exhibiting greater anterior and septal wall thickness than females. No significant associations were identified between the average AWT and body mass index, LA volume, or sphericity. Survival analysis conducted over 24 months revealed a meaningful relationship between mean anterior wall thickness and recurrence-free survival, with increased thickness associated with a lower likelihood of AF-free survival. No such relationship was observed for the indexed LA volume. Conclusions: The variability in AWT and its association with recurrence-free survival following AF ablation suggest that AWT should be considered when stratifying patients for AF management and ablation strategies. These findings underscore the need for personalised treatment approaches and further research on the interplay of the structural properties of the left atrium as factors that can serve as important prognostic markers in AF treatment.
Advancements in Synthetic Generation of Contactless Palmprint Biometrics Using StyleGAN Models
Authors: Chowdhury A M Mahmud , Khondkar Md Jahangir Alam , Imtiaz Masudul Haider
Published: September 2024

Deep learning models have demonstrated significant advantages over traditional algorithms in image processing tasks like object detection. However, a large amount of data are needed to train such deep networks, which limits their application to tasks such as biometric recognition that require more training samples for each class (i.e., each individual). Researchers developing such complex systems rely on real biometric data, which raises privacy concerns and is restricted by the availability of extensive, varied datasets. This paper proposes a generative adversarial network (GAN)-based solution to produce training data (palm images) for improved biometric (palmprint-based) recognition systems. We investigate the performance of the most recent StyleGAN models in generating a thorough contactless palm image dataset for application in biometric research. Training on publicly available H-PolyU and IIDT palmprint databases, a total of 4839 images were generated using StyleGAN models. SIFT (Scale-Invariant Feature Transform) was used to find uniqueness and features at different sizes and angles, which showed a similarity score of 16.12% with the most recent StyleGAN3-based model. For the regions of interest (ROIs) in both the palm and finger, the average similarity scores were 17.85%. We present the Frechet Inception Distance (FID) of the proposed model, which achieved a 16.1 score, demonstrating significant performance. These results demonstrated StyleGAN as effective in producing unique synthetic biometric images.
Linking a Digital Asset to an NFT—Technical and Legal Analysis
Authors: Martínez Luna William Fernando , Moreno Ballesteros Ana María , Ruiz Dorantes Edgar José
Published: September 2024

NFTs (non-fungible tokens) enable the commercialization of goods and services through blockchain technology, enhancing the security, transparency, and speed of transactions. The primary challenge NFTs face is their connection to the underlying asset, ensuring that transferring the token also means transferring the linked asset. This interdisciplinary article examines the technical and legal challenges of creating and linking a digital asset to an NFT. To explain the binding process, an NFT associated with a digital artwork was created, and relevant internal and uniform legal regulations were analyzed.
Fortification of Goat Milk Yogurts with Encapsulated Postbiotic Active Lactococci
Authors: Lauková Andrea , Maďar Marián , Zábolyová Natália , Troscianczyk Aleksandra , Pogány Simonová Monika
Published: September 2024

The species Lactococcus lactis is a bacterium extensively used in the dairy industry. This bacterium is Generally Recognized as Safe and was added to the European Food Safety Authority’s Qualified Presumption of Safety list. The major functions of this species in dairy fermentation are the production of lactic acid from lactose, citric acid fermentation, and the hydrolysis of casein. But, the representatives of this species that produce bacteriocin substances can also exert an inhibitory effect against spoilage bacteria. The aims of this study were to test three lactococcal strains isolated from raw goat milk for their postbiotic activity and to test their stability in goat milk yogurts after their application in encapsulated form for their further application. To achieve these aims, validated methods were used. Three Lactococcus lactis strains (identified by Blastn 16S rRNA analysis) produced bacteriocin substances/postbiotics. These concentrated postbiotics inhibited the growth of enterococci and staphylococci (by up to 97.8%), reaching an inhibitory activity of up to 800 AU/mL. The encapsulated (freeze-dried) lactococci survived in the goat milk yogurts with sufficient stability. Strain MK2/8 fortified the yogurts in the highest amount (8.1 ± 0.0 cfu/g log 10). It did not influence the pH of the yogurt.
Study on Microscopic Oil Displacement Mechanism of Alkaline–Surfactant–Polymer Ternary Flooding
Authors: Li Guoqiao , Zhou Zhaohui , Fan Jian , Zhang Fan , Zhao Jinyi , Zhang Zhiqiu , Ding Wei , Zhang Lu , Zhang Lei
Published: September 2024

Alkali–surfactant–polymer (ASP) flooding is one of the most effective and promising ways to enhance oil recovery (EOR). The synergistic effect between alkali, surfactant, and polymer can respectively promote emulsification performance, reduce interfacial tension, and improve bulk phase viscosity, thus effectively improving flooding efficiency. However, the displacement mechanism of ASP flooding and the contribution of different components to the oil displacement effect still need further discussion. In this study, five groups of chemical slugs were injected into the fracture model after water flooding to characterize the displacement effect of weak alkali, surfactant, polymer, and their binary/ternary combinations on residual oil. Additionally, the dominant mechanism of the ASP flooding system to improve the recovery was studied. The results showed that EOR can be improved through interfacial reaction, low oil/water interfacial tension (IFT), and increased viscosity. In particular, the synergistic effect of ASP includes sweep and oil washing. As for sweep, the swept volume is expanded by the interfacial reaction between the alkali and the acidic components in Daqing crude oil, and the polymer increases the viscosity of the system. As for oil washing, the surfactant generated by the alkali cooperates with surfactants to reduce the IFT to an ultra-low level, which promotes the formation and migration of oil-in-water emulsions and increases the efficiency of oil washing. Overall, ASP can not only activate discontinuous oil ganglia in the pores within the water flooding range, but also emulsify, decompose, and migrate the continuous residual oil in the expanded range outside the water flooding. The EOR of ASP is 38.0% higher than that of water flooding. Therefore, the ASP system is a new ternary composite flooding technology with low cost, technical feasibility, and broad application prospects.
Effect of Chlorine Salt Content on the Microstructural Development of C-S-H Gels and Ca(OH)2 at Different Curing Temperatures
Authors: Qi Wenjie , Fang Zhisheng , Zhang Shiyi , Fan Yingfang , Shah Surendra P. , Zheng Junjie
Published: September 2024

Freshwater resources are scarce in coastal areas, and using seawater as mixing water can alleviate the scarcity of freshwater resources. However, the presence of chloride ions in seawater affects the generation of hydration products and the durability of concrete structures. In order to investigate the effect of hydrated calcium silicate (C-S-H) gel and calcium hydroxide (CH) generation in seawater-mixed cement pastes under 50 °C curing, their microscopic morphology was investigated using differential scanning calorimetry analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The relationship between the amount of C-S-H gel and CH production and the amount of chloride ion dosing, fly ash dosing, and the age of curing were investigated. The degree of influence between hydration products and influencing factors was analyzed using the grey correlation analysis. It was shown that 50 °C curing promoted the hydration reaction and generated more hydration products compared with ASTM standard. The content of C-S-H gel and CH increased with chloride dosage. The content of C-S-H gel increased by 13.5% under 50 °C curing compared with the control group at a chloride dosage of 1.3%. Fly ash is rich in active SiO2 and AI2O3, and other components, which can react with Ca(OH)2 generated by cement hydration and then generate C-S-H gel. With the increase of fly ash, the content of C-S-H gel also increases, but the CH content decreases. When 25% of fly ash was doped under 50 °C curing, the C-S-H gel content increased by 5.02% compared to the control group. The CH content decreased by 31.8% compared to the control group. With the growth of the maintenance age, the hydration reaction continues, the generation of C-S-H gel and CH will continue to increase, and their microstructures will become denser. C-S-H gel and CH content increased the most by raising the curing temperature at 7 days of curing, increasing by 10.11% and 22.62%, respectively. C-S-H gel and CH content had the highest gray relation with fly ash dosing. Chloride dosage and age of maintenance had the highest correlation with CH content at room temperature maintenance of 0.788 and 0.753, respectively.
A Generic Multi-Objective Optimization of Machining Processes Using an End-to-End Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Xun Cheng , Wu Pengcheng
Published: September 2024

Machining processes have been widely employed in the modern manufacturing industry to transform raw materials into final products, and they are of great importance in improving the environmental impact and production efficiency of this industry. The selection of appropriate machining process parameters can effectively improve the environmental impact and production efficiency of a process. However, most existing studies on the optimization of these parameters have targeted optimization techniques or modeling methods, and have seldom taken into consideration the adaptability of the machining process. Thus, they suffer from poor generalization and flexibility in actual deployment. Based on this, a generic optimization framework based on the end-to-end evolutionary algorithm was proposed in this study, which can be adapted to various machining optimization problems, to guide the operators in selecting the best parameters in an automated way. Firstly, a modeling framework was introduced to guide the operators to develop optimization objectives. Subsequently, a flexible optimization algorithm was employed to generate Pareto front solutions. Finally, the CRITIC-TOPSIS method was employed to provide a final solution from the different Pareto solutions generated. Experiments were conducted on a milling machine to demonstrate the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed method. The results showed that the proposed method is flexible and applicable for the optimization of the different machining steps and objectives.
Rigid Polynomial Differential Systems with Homogeneous Nonlinearities
Authors: Llibre Jaume
Published: September 2024

Planar differential systems whose angular velocity is constant are called rigid or uniform differential systems. The first rigid system goes back to the pendulum clock of Christiaan Huygens in 1656; since then, the interest for the rigid systems has been growing. Thus, at this moment, in MathSciNet there are 108 articles with the words rigid systems or uniform systems in their titles. Here, we study the dynamics of the planar rigid polynomial differential systems with homogeneous nonlinearities of arbitrary degree. More precisely, we characterize the existence and non-existence of limit cycles in this class of rigid systems, and we determine the local phase portraits of their finite and infinite equilibrium points in the Poincaré disc. Finally, we classify the global phase portraits in the Poincaré disc of the rigid polynomial differential systems of degree two, and of one class of rigid polynomial differential systems with cubic homogeneous nonlinearities that can exhibit one limit cycle.
Surrogate-Assisted Symbolic Time-Series Discretization Using Multi-Breakpoints and a Multi-Objective Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Márquez-Grajales Aldo , Mezura-Montes Efrén , Acosta-Mesa Héctor-Gabriel , Salas-Martínez Fernando
Published: September 2024

The enhanced multi-objective symbolic discretization for time series (eMODiTS) method employs a flexible discretization scheme using different value cuts for each non-equal time interval, which incurs a high computational cost for evaluating each objective function. It is essential to mention that each solution found by eMODiTS is a different-sized vector. Previous work was performed where surrogate models were implemented to reduce the computational cost to solve this problem. However, low-fidelity approximations were obtained concerning the original model. Consequently, our main objective is to propose an improvement to this work, modifying the updating process of the surrogate models to minimize their disadvantages. This improvement was evaluated based on classification, predictive power, and computational cost, comparing it against the original model and ten discretization methods reported in the literature. The results suggest that the proposal achieves a higher fidelity to the original model than previous work. It also achieved a computational cost reduction rate between 15% and 80% concerning the original model. Finally, the classification error of our proposal is similar to eMODiTS and maintains its behavior compared to the other discretization methods.
The Value of Systemic Inflammatory Indices for Predicting Early Postoperative Complications in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Shevchenko Irina , Grigorescu Catalin Cicerone , Serban Dragos , Cristea Bogdan Mihai , Simion Laurentiu , Gherghiceanu Florentina , Costea Andreea Cristina , Dumitrescu Dan , Alius Catalin , Tudor Corneliu , Onisai Minodora , Gradinaru Sebastian , Dascalu Ana Maria
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: Systemic inflammatory indices have been largely investigated for their potential predictive value in multiple inflammatory, infectious, and oncological diseases; however, their value in colorectal cancer is still a subject of research. This study investigates the dynamics of pre- and postoperative values of NLR, PLR, SII, and MLR in patients with colorectal cancer and their predictive value for early postoperative outcomes. Materials and Methods: A 2-year retrospective cohort study was performed on 200 patients operated for colorectal adenocarcinoma. Systemic inflammatory indices were calculated based on complete blood count preoperatively and on the first and sixth postoperative days. The patients were divided into two groups based on their emergency or elective presentation. The pre- and postoperative values of serum inflammatory biomarkers and their correlations with postoperative outcomes were separately analyzed for the two study subgroups. Results: There were no significant differences in sex distribution, addressability, associated comorbidities, or types of surgery between the two groups. Patients in the emergency group presented higher preoperative and postoperative values of WBC, neutrophils, NLR, and SII compared to elective patients. The postsurgery hospital stays correlated well with pre- and postoperative day one and day six values of NLR (p = 0.001; 0.02; and <0.001), PLR (p < 0.001), SII (p = 0.037; <0.001; <0.001), and MLR (p = 0.002; p = 0.002; <0.001). In a multivariate analysis, reintervention risk was higher for emergency presentation and anemia, and lower in right colon cancer. In the emergency group, a multivariate model including age, MLR PO1, and pTNM stage was predictive for severe postoperative complications (AUC ROC 0.818). First-day postoperative inflammatory indices correlated well with sepsis, with the best predictive value being observed for the first postoperative day NLR (AUC 0.836; sensibility 88.8%; specificity 66.7%) and SII (AUC 0.796; sensitivity 66.6%; specificity 90%). For elective patients, the first postoperative day PLR and anemia were included in a multivariate model to predict Clavien–Dindo complications graded 3 or more (AUC ROC 0.818) and reintervention (AUC ROC 0.796). Conclusions: Easy-to-calculate and inexpensive systemic inflammatory biomarkers could be useful in predicting early postoperative outcomes in colorectal cancer for both elective and emergency surgery.
Coupling Low-Frequency Ultrasound to a Crossflow Microfiltration Pilot: Effect of Ultrasonic Pulse Application on Sono-Microfiltration of Jackfruit Juice
Authors: Miramontes-Escobar Herenia Adilene , Hengl Nicolas , Dornier Manuel , Montalvo-González Efigenia , Chacón-López Martina Alejandra , Achir Nawel , Vaillant Fabrice , Ortiz-Basurto Rosa Isela
Published: September 2024

To reduce membrane fouling during the processing of highly pulpy fruit juices into clarified beverages, a crossflow Sono-Microfiltration (SMF) system was employed, strategically equipped with an ultrasonic probe for the direct application of low-frequency ultrasound (LFUS) to the juice just before the entrance to the ceramic membrane. Operating conditions were standardized, and the application of LFUS pulses in both corrective and preventive modes was investigated. The effect of SMF on the physicochemical properties and the total soluble phenol (TSP) content of the clarified juice was also evaluated. The distance of ultrasonic energy irradiation guided the selection of the LFUS probe. Amplitude conditions and ultrasonic pulses were more effective in the preventive mode and did not cause membrane damage, reducing the operation time of jackfruit juice by up to 50% and increasing permeability by up to 81%. The SMF did not alter the physicochemical parameters of the clarified juice, and the measured LFUS energy ranges did not affect the TSP concentration during the process. This study is the first to apply LFUS directly to the feed stream in a pilot-scale crossflow microfiltration system to reduce the fouling of ceramic membranes and maintain bioactive compounds in jackfruit juice.
Study on the Influence of Thickness on the Pre-Bending Process of the JCOE Forming Plate Edge of Nickel-Based Alloy N08810
Authors: Li Tuo , Ma Chuanchuan , Xue Chun , Gui Hailian , Shuai Meirong , Chu Zhibing
Published: September 2024

JCOE is a progressively advanced forming process that encompasses J-forming, C-forming, O-forming, and expansion technology. This methodology constitutes an efficacious means of producing high-strength pipes. In recent years, this process has been utilized in the manufacturing of small-diameter, thick-walled welded pipes using nickel-based alloy N08810 plates. This study establishes a mathematical model for key parameters in the pre-bending process, rooted in JCOE forming and plastic bending theory, and introduces a process optimization approach. Initially, by refining the mold configuration and executing simulation analyses, we comprehensively delineate the stress–strain distribution and metal flow dynamics during pre-bending. Furthermore, we unravel the influence of varying plate thicknesses on both the pre-bending force and springback bending angle. Ultimately, the veracity of our theoretical model and simulation protocol is substantiated through rigorous experimentation. The findings indicate that the optimized mold configuration yields superior pre-bending forces and springback bending angles compared to conventional methods, thereby furnishing a solid theoretical foundation for industrial applications.
Preparation of High-Performance Transparent Al2O3 Dielectric Films via Self-Exothermic Reaction Based on Solution Method and Applications
Authors: Fang Xuecong , Ning Honglong , Zhang Zihan , Yao Rihui , Huang Yucheng , Yang Yonglin , Cheng Weixin , Jin Shaojie , Luo Dongxiang , Peng Junbiao
Published: September 2024

As the competition intensifies in enhancing the integration and performance of integrated circuits, in accordance with the famous Moore’s Law, higher performance and smaller size requirements are imposed on the dielectric layers in electronic devices. Compared to vacuum methods, the production cost of preparing dielectric layers via solution methods is lower, and the preparation cycle is shorter. This paper utilizes a low-temperature self-exothermic reaction based on the solution method to prepare high-performance Al2O3 dielectric thin films that are compatible with flexible substrates. In this paper, we first established two non-self-exothermic systems: one with pure aluminum nitrate and one with pure aluminum acetylacetonate. Additionally, we set up one self-exothermic system where aluminum nitrate and aluminum acetylacetonate were mixed in a 1:1 ratio. Tests revealed that the leakage current density and dielectric constant of the self-exothermic system devices were significantly optimized compared to the two non-self-exothermic system devices, indicating that the self-exothermic reaction can effectively improve the quality of the dielectric film. This paper further established two self-exothermic systems with aluminum nitrate and aluminum acetylacetonate mixed in 2:1 and 1:2 ratios, respectively, for comparison. The results indicate that as the proportion of aluminum nitrate increases, the overall dielectric performance of the devices improves. The best overall performance occurs when aluminum nitrate and aluminum acetylacetonate are mixed in a ratio of 2:1: The film surface is smooth without cracks; the surface roughness is 0.747 ± 0.045 nm; the visible light transmittance reaches up to 98%; on the basis of this film, MIM devices were fabricated, with tested leakage current density as low as 1.08 × 10−8 A/cm2 @1 MV and a relative dielectric constant as high as 8.61 ± 0.06, demonstrating excellent electrical performance.
Seasonal Dynamics of Eukaryotic Microbial Communities in the Water-Receiving Reservoir of the Long-Distance Water Diversion Project, China
Authors: Yang Yingying , Ci Fangfang , Xu Ailing , Zhang Xijian , Ding Ning , Wan Nianxin , Lv Yuanyuan , Song Zhiwen
Published: September 2024

Inter-basin water transfer projects, such as the Yellow River to Qingdao Water Diversion Project (YQWD), are essential for addressing water scarcity, but impact local aquatic ecosystems. This study investigates the seasonal characteristics of eukaryotic microbial communities in the Jihongtan Reservoir, the main water-receiving body of YQWD, over a one-year period using 18S rDNA amplicon sequencing. The results showed that the eukaryotic microbial diversity did not exhibit significant seasonal variation (p > 0.05), but there was a notable variance in the community structure (p < 0.05). Arthropoda and Paracyclopina, representing the most dominant phylum and the most dominant genus, respectively, both exhibited the lowest abundance during the winter. The Chlorophyta, as the second-dominant phylum, demonstrates its higher abundance in the spring and winter. The Mantel test and PLS-PM (Partial Least Squares Path Modeling) revealed that water temperature (WT), dissolved oxygen (DO), and pH influenced the seasonal dynamic of eukaryotic microbial communities significantly, of which WT was the primary driving factor. In addition to environmental factors, water diversion is likely to be an important influencing factor. The results of the co-occurrence network and robustness suggested that the spring network is the most complex and exhibits the highest stability. Moreover, keystone taxa within networks have been identified, revealing that these key groups encompass both abundant and rare species, with specificity to different seasons. These insights are vital for understanding the seasonal variation of microbial communities in the Jihongtan Reservoir during ongoing water diversions.
In Vitro Utilization of Prebiotics by Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Kodešová Tereza , Mašlejová Anna , Vlková Eva , Musilová Šárka , Horváthová Kristýna , Šubrtová Salmonová Hana
Published: September 2024

Listeria monocytognes is an emerging pathogen responsible for the serious foodborne disease, listeriosis. The commensal gut microbiota is the first line of defense against pathogen internalization. The gut microbiome can be modified by prebiotic substrates, which are frequently added to food products and dietary supplements. Prebiotics should selectively support the growth of beneficial microbes and thus improve host health. Nevertheless, little is known about their effect on the growth of L. monocytogenes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth ability of four L. monocytogenes strains, representing the most common serotypes, on prebiotic oligosaccharides (beta-(1,3)-D-glucan, inulin, fructooligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides, lactulose, raffinose, stachyose and 2′-fucosyllactose and a mixture of human milk oligosaccharides) as a sole carbon source. The results showed that only beta-(1,3)-D-glucan was metabolized by L. monocytogenes. These cell culture data suggest that beta-(1,3)-D-glucan may not be selectively utilized by healthy commensal bacteria, and its role in intestinal pathogen growth warrants further exploration in vivo.
Recent Advances on Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials Supported Single-Atom for Hydrogen Evolution Electrocatalysts
Authors: Fu Kangkai , Yuan Douke , Yu Ting , Lei Chaojun , Kou Zhenhui , Huang Bingfeng , Lyu Siliu , Zhang Feng , Wan Tongtao
Published: September 2024

Water electrolysis has been recognized as a promising technology that can convert renewable energy into hydrogen for storage and utilization. The superior activity and low cost of catalysis are key factors in promoting the industrialization of water electrolysis. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have attracted attention due to their ultra-high atomic utilization, clear structure, and highest hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance. In addition, the performance and stability of single-atom (SA) substrates are crucial, and various two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterial supports have become promising foundations for SA due to their unique exposed surfaces, diverse elemental compositions, and flexible electronic structures, to drive single atoms to reach performance limits. The SA supported by 2D nanomaterials exhibits various electronic interactions and synergistic effects, all of which need to be comprehensively summarized. This article aims to organize and discuss the progress of 2D nanomaterial single-atom supports in enhancing HER, including common and widely used synthesis methods, advanced characterization techniques, different types of 2D supports, and the correlation between structural hydrogen evolution performance. Finally, the latest understanding of 2D nanomaterial supports was proposed.
Application of High-Resolution Infrared Thermography to Study the Effects of Technologically Processed Antibodies on the Near-Surface Layer of Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Don Elena , Zubkov Evgenii , Moroshkina Ekaterina , Molodtsova Irina , Petrova Anastasia , Tarasov Sergey
Published: September 2024

A new class of biologics is obtained using the technologically processed of antibodies (TPA), which are used as the initial substance, and their dilution at each stage is accompanied by a controlled external vibrational (mechanical) treatment. This article focuses on the development and validation of a novel technique that can be applied for assessing the identity of TPA-based drugs. It has previously been found that after such treatment, the resulting solution either acquired new properties that were not present in the initial substance or a quantitative change in properties compared to the initial substance was observed. The use of mechanical treatment during the manufacture of the TPA-based drugs can cause the formation of new bonds between the solvent and antibody molecules. These changes manifest themselves in altered adsorption at the surface of the test solutions, which results in the formation of a near-surface film. One of the indicators of such events is the change in the surface temperature of the solution, which can be analyzed using high-resolution thermography. Unlike other methods, the high-resolution thermography allows the near-surface layer of a heterogeneous aqueous solution to be clearly visualized and quantified. A number of experiments were performed: seven replicates of sample preparations were tested; the influence of factors “day” or “operator” was investigated during 12 days of testing by two operators. The method also allowed us to distinguish between technologically processed antibodies and samples containing technologically processed buffer. The thermographic analysis has proven to be a simple, specific, and reproducible technique that can be used to analyze the identity of TPA-based drugs, regardless of the dosage form tested.
Wide pH, Adaptable High Internal Phase Pickering Emulsion Stabilized by a Crude Polysaccharide from Thesium chinense Turcz.
Authors: Ling Borong , Shao Lijun , Jiang Huicong , Wu Shufang
Published: September 2024

The ultrasound-assisted extraction conditions of Thesium chinense Turcz. crude polysaccharide (TTP) were optimized, and a TTP sample with a yield of 11.9% was obtained. TTP demonstrated the ability to stabilize high-internal-phase oil-in-water emulsions with an oil phase volume reaching up to 80%. Additionally, the emulsions stabilized by TTP were examined across different pH levels, ionic strengths, and temperatures. The results indicated that the emulsions stabilized by TTP exhibited stability over a wide pH range of 1–11. The emulsion remained stable under ionic strengths of 0–500 mM and temperatures of 4–55 °C. The microstructure of the emulsions was observed using confocal laser scanning microscopy, and the stabilization mechanism of the emulsion was hypothesized. Soluble polysaccharides formed a network structure in the continuous phase, and the insoluble polysaccharides dispersed in the continuous phase, acting as a bridge structure, which worked together to prevent oil droplet aggregation. This research was significant for developing a new food-grade emulsifier with a wide pH range of applicability.
Synthesis and Properties of Dibenzo-Fused Naphtho[2,3-b:6,7-b′]disilole and Naphtho[2,3-b:6,7-b′]diphosphole
Authors: Morishita Suzuho , Hayasaka Chikara , Noguchi Keiichi , Nakano Koji
Published: September 2024

Silole- and phosphole-containing polycyclic aromatic compounds have attracted significant attention in the field of organic functional materials. The structure of the aromatic units has great impact on the photophysical properties of the resulting silole- and phosphole-containing polycyclic aromatic compounds. Here, dibenzo-fused naphtho[2,3-b:6,7-b′]disilole (NDS) and naphtho[2,3-b:6,7-b′]diphosphole (NDP), where a naphthalene unit is arranged between two silole and phosphole units, respectively, were designed and synthesized. The solid-state structures of them were confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis. The photophysical properties were evaluated by UV−vis absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopies and compared with those of their related compounds, such as dibenzo-fused silolo[3,2-b]silole and benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b′]disilole, ever reported. The longest wavelength absorption band of a series of silole-fused compounds was found to be red-shifted in the order benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b′]disilole < NDS < silolo[3,2-b]silole derivatives. For a series of phosphole-fused compounds, π-extension from phospholo[3,2-b]phosphole to NDP derivatives induces the lower absorption coefficient of the longest wavelength absorption band and the red-shift of the second longest wavelength absorption band. Both NDS and NDP exhibit much lower fluorescence quantum yields than their related compounds.
Enzyme Inhibitors as Multifaceted Tools in Medicine and Agriculture
Authors: Del Prete Sonia , Pagano Mario
Published: September 2024

Enzymes are molecules that play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and balance in all living organisms by catalyzing metabolic and cellular processes. If an enzyme’s mechanism of action is inhibited, the progression of certain diseases can be slowed or halted, making enzymes a key therapeutic target. Therefore, identifying or developing enzyme inhibitors is essential for treating significant diseases and ensuring plant defense against pathogens. This review aims to compile information on various types of enzyme inhibitors, particularly those that are well studied and beneficial in both human and plant contexts, by analyzing their mechanisms of action and the resulting benefits. Specifically, this review focuses on three different types of enzyme inhibitors that are most studied, recognized, and cited, each with distinct areas of action and potential benefits. For instance, serine enzyme inhibitors in plants help defend against pathogens, while the other two classes—alpha-glucosidase inhibitors and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors—have significant effects on human health. Furthermore, this review is also intended to assist other researchers by providing valuable insights into the biological effects of specific natural or synthetic inhibitors. Based on the current understanding of these enzyme inhibitors, which are among the most extensively studied in the scientific community, future research could explore their use in additional applications or the development of synthetic inhibitors derived from natural ones. Such inhibitors could aid in defending against pathogenic organisms, preventing the onset of diseases in humans, or even slowing the growth of certain pathogenic microorganisms. Notably, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors have shown promising results in potentially replacing antibiotics, thereby addressing the growing issue of antibiotic resistance.
Extended Reality Applications for CNC Machine Training: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ibarra Kwick José Manuel , Hernández-Uribe Óscar , Cárdenas-Robledo Leonor Adriana , Luque-Morales Ramón Alberto
Published: September 2024

Extended reality (XR) as an immersive technology has gained significant interest in the industry for training and maintenance tasks. It offers an interactive, three-dimensional environment that can boost users’ efficiency and safety in various sectors. The present systematic review provides information based on a Scopus database search for research articles from 2011 to 2024 to expose 19 selected studies related to XR developments and approaches. The purpose is to grasp the state of the art, focusing on user training in goals or tasks that involve computer numerical control (CNC) machines. The study revealed approaches that broadly employed XR devices to execute diverse operations for virtual CNC machines, offering enhanced safety and skills acquisition, lessening the use of physical machines that impact energy consumption or the time invested by an expert worker to teach an operation task. The articles highlight the advantages of XR training versus traditional training in CNC machines, revealing an opportunity to enhance learning aligned to the industry 4.0 (I4.0) paradigm. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications are the most used and are mainly centered on a single-user environment. In addition, a VR approach is built as a proof of concept for learning CNC machine operations, considering the key features identified.
Biomarkers for Health Functional Foods in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disorder (MASLD) Prevention: An Integrative Analysis of Network Pharmacology, Gut Microbiota, and Multi-Omics
Authors: Yuan Heng , Jung Eun-Soo , Chae Soo-Wan , Jung Su-Jin , Daily James W. , Park Sunmin
Published: September 2024

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disorder (MASLD) is increasingly prevalent globally, highlighting the need for preventive strategies and early interventions. This comprehensive review explores the potential of health functional foods (HFFs) to maintain healthy liver function and prevent MASLD through an integrative analysis of network pharmacology, gut microbiota, and multi-omics approaches. We first examined the biomarkers associated with MASLD, emphasizing the complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. We then applied network pharmacology to identify food components with potential beneficial effects on liver health and metabolic function, elucidating their action mechanisms. This review identifies and evaluates strategies for halting or reversing the development of steatotic liver disease in the early stages, as well as biomarkers that can evaluate the success or failure of such strategies. The crucial role of the gut microbiota and its metabolites for MASLD prevention and metabolic homeostasis is discussed. We also cover state-of-the-art omics approaches, including transcriptomics, metabolomics, and integrated multi-omics analyses, in research on preventing MASLD. These advanced technologies provide deeper insights into physiological mechanisms and potential biomarkers for HFF development. The review concludes by proposing an integrated approach for developing HFFs targeting MASLD prevention, considering the Korean regulatory framework. We outline future research directions that bridge the gap between basic science and practical applications in health functional food development. This narrative review provides a foundation for researchers and food industry professionals interested in developing HFFs to support liver health. Emphasis is placed on maintaining metabolic balance and focusing on prevention and early-stage intervention strategies.
Iron Deficiency and Restless Sleep/Wake Behaviors in Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Mental Health Conditions
Authors: Ipsiroglu Osman S. , Pandher Parveer K. , Hill Olivia , McWilliams Scout , Braschel Melissa , Edwards Katherine , Friedlander Robin , Keys Elizabeth , Kuo Calvin , Lewis Marion Suzanne , Richardson Anamaria , Wagner Alexandra L. , Wensley David
Published: September 2024

Iron deficiency (ID) and restlessness are associated with sleep/wake-disorders (e.g., restless legs syndrome (RLS)) and neurodevelopmental disorders (attention deficit/hyperactivity and autism spectrum disorders (ADHD; ASD)). However, a standardized approach to assessing ID and restlessness is missing. We reviewed iron status and family sleep/ID history data collected at a sleep/wake behavior clinic under a quality improvement/quality assurance project. Restlessness was explored through patient and parental narratives and a ‘suggested clinical immobilization test’. Of 199 patients, 94% had ID, with 43% having a family history of ID. ADHD (46%) and ASD (45%) were common conditions, along with chronic insomnia (61%), sleep-disordered breathing (50%), and parasomnias (22%). In unadjusted analysis, a family history of ID increased the odds (95% CI) of familial RLS (OR: 5.98, p = 0.0002, [2.35–15.2]), insomnia/DIMS (OR: 3.44, p = 0.0084, [1.37–8.64]), and RLS (OR: 7.00, p = 0.01, [1.49–32.93]) in patients with ADHD, and of insomnia/DIMS (OR: 4.77, p = 0.0014, [1.82–12.5]), RLS/PLMS (OR: 5.83, p = 0.009, [1.54–22.1]), RLS (OR: 4.05, p = 0.01, [1.33–12.3]), and familial RLS (OR: 2.82, p = 0.02, [1.17–6.81]) in patients with ASD. ID and restlessness were characteristics of ADHD and ASD, and a family history of ID increased the risk of sleep/wake-disorders. These findings highlight the need to integrate comprehensive blood work and family history to capture ID in children and adolescents with restless behaviors.