bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Air Pollutants for a Small Paintshop by Means of a Mobile Platform and Geostatistical Methods
Authors: Sówka Izabela , Cichowicz Robert , Dobrzański Maciej , Bezyk Yaroslav
Published: November 2023

Air pollution, in terms of particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5, PM1.0) and gaseous pollutants (H2S and VOC), has serious health effects, particularly in cities. The evaluation of outdoor air quality was carried out in the vicinity of a small paintshop operating in the city of Łódź, Poland. The concentrations of pollutants in the vertical profiles (up to 47 m a.g.l.) of ambient air were measured using a mobile platform (unmanned aerial vehicle with measuring equipment) during three measurement campaigns in September 2021. The vertical structure of the pollutant concentrations indicated the occurrence of different types of layers with an almost constant concentration near the land surface, a strong decrease (up to ca. 10–15 m a.g.l.), and significant fluctuations in concentrations to higher levels (above 25 m a.g.l.). Particulate matter concentrations (PM10, PM2.5, PM1.0) did not exceed 39 µg m−3, with stable levels on the surface. The maximum value of particulate matter concentrations (up to 38.5 µg m−3) in the vertical profiles was recorded at ca. 35–40 m a.g.l. The average concentrations of H2S and VOC varied between 0.07 and 0.12 ppm and 0.01 and 0.27 ppm, respectively. The highest H2S concentrations were observed at ca. 18–23 m a.g.l., reaching 0.14 ppm. A rapid increase in VOC concentrations, reaching 0.29 ppm, was measured in vertical profiles from 20 m a.g.l. and up to about 40 m a.g.l. In situ measurement approaches were combined with interpolation methods in the GIS system to investigate the spatial variability of pollution levels from a specified source in the urban atmosphere. Based on the survey results, the kriging interpolation method was well suited for generating spatially distributed pollution maps for individual measurement campaigns.
A Fuzzy Logic Concept for Predicting the Seasonal Thermal Performance of Building Envelopes Based on Structural and Geographical Parameters
Authors: Kočí Jan , Maděra Jiří , Khmurovska Yulia , Štemberk Petr , Černý Robert
Published: November 2023

The current practice of building thermal retrofitting is based on the outcomes of energy audits that make use of standardized tabulated information mapped on a structure or structural elements under inherently very specific conditions. Therefore, it provides very limited outcomes for further analysis, especially when decision making procedures are required to particularize the retrofitting strategy. This paper introduces a novel fuzzy logic approach for predicting the thermal performance of building walls that can be used in practice to partially substitute time-consuming and costly energy audits or complex computational analyses. The objective of this concept is to forecast the annual heating energy demands of buildings and to identify the potential energy savings that could be achieved by applying thermal retrofitting measures based on limited resources and information obtained from maps, blueprints, and/or a simple site inspection. For this purpose, a sample knowledge base was created using a validated computational model of the heat and moisture transport in the multilayered wall assemblies. Then, the fuzzy logic model was introduced to predict the thermal performance of selected walls. Our comparison of the fuzzy model outputs with simulated data proved the potential of using the proposed concept as an efficient and straightforward tool for predicting the seasonal thermal performance of building envelopes and to partially replace the current practice, which requires the utilization of building energy audits.
Modeling Requirements for Collaborative Robotic Services
Authors: Zapata Oscar Stiven Morales , Correa Yaney Gomez , Yoshioka Leopoldo Rideki , Silva Jose Reinaldo
Published: November 2023

Collaborative robots have experienced low acceptance in applications, especially in industry. This fact has attracted the attention of researchers and practitioners, who point to different causes for this limited acceptance. One of the main reasons is the difficulty in converging on suitable methods for modeling collaborative interactions between robots and their surrounding context during the requirements phase. These interactions must be elicited and modeled during the requirements stage to maximize value creation through collaboration. Formal verification is necessary, taking into account the risks of human-robot interaction. However, such modeling is often absent in collaborative robot design, and choosing an appropriate approach remains an open problem. This paper addresses this problem using a model-based requirements cycle where the value creation is detached to provide direct analysis, possible optimization, and formal verification. The general process integrates with the general model-based requirements engineering of the remaining system. This service system approach relies on a goal-oriented requirements approach, and specific algorithms were developed to transfer goal-oriented diagrams into Petri Nets—to provide formal process verification. A case study illustrates the application of the proposed method on a collaborative robot used in a university hospital environment.
How Healthcare Systems Negatively Impact Environmental Health? The Need for Institutional Commitment to Reduce the Ecological Footprint of Medical Services
Authors: Piscitelli Prisco , Karaj Stela , Miani Alessandro , Kyriakides Tassos C. , Greco Enrico , Colicino Elena , Bray Antonio , Simón Fernando , Vasiliou Vasilis , Baccarelli Andrea A.
Published: November 2023

The global healthcare industry plays a crucial role in preserving human health and well-being [...]
Inversion of Leaf Water Content of Cinnamomum camphora Based on Preferred Spectral Index and Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Yang Baocheng , Zhang Haina , Lu Xianghui , Wan Haolong , Zhang Yue , Zhang Jie , Jin Zhinong
Published: November 2023

Plant leaf water content significantly influences photosynthetic efficiency and crop yield. Leaf water content (LWC) and equivalent water thickness (EWT) are indicators that reflect the water state within plant tissues, and they play a crucial role in assessing plant water supply and usage. In recent years, there has been a growing focus on the rapid and precise determination of plant water content. In this study, Cinnamomum camphora (C. camphora) was chosen as the subject of investigation. After acquiring spectral data, three types of vegetation indices were computed: the empirical vegetation index, the random combination dual-band vegetation index, and the ‘trilateral’ parameter. Four groups of optimal spectral index screening strategies were established, namely an empirical vegetation index group (G1), a random combination dual-band vegetation index group (G2), a ‘trilateral’ parameter group (G3), and a mixed group (G4). Three algorithms, specifically random forest (RF), radial basis function neural network (RBFNN), and support vector machine (SVM), were employed for the estimation of leaf water content (LWC) and equivalent water thickness (EWT) in mature C. camphora. The results demonstrated that the G4 group displayed superior performance, yielding five optimal spectral indices for LWC: water index (WI), optimized soil-adjusted vegetation index (OSAVI), difference vegetation index (DVI) at wavelengths 734 and 956 nm, first-order difference vegetation index (DVI-FD) at wavelengths 1009 and 774 nm, and red-edge amplitude (Dr). With regard to EWT estimation, the five optimal spectral indices encompassed the red-edge normalized difference vegetation index (RE-NDVI), simple ratio water index (SRWI), difference vegetation index (DVI) at wavelengths 700 and 1167 nm, first-order difference vegetation index (DVI-FD) at wavelengths 1182 and 1514 nm, and red-edge area (SDr). Utilizing these indices as inputs significantly enhanced the accuracy of the models, with the RF model emerging as the most effective for estimating LWC and EWT in C. camphora. Based on the LWC estimation model of the G4 group and the RF algorithm, the determination coefficient (R2) for both the training and test sets reached 0.848 and 0.871, respectively. The root mean square error (RMSE) was 0.568% for the training set and 0.582% for the test set, while the average relative error (MRE) stood at 0.806% and 0.642%, respectively. Regarding the EWT estimation model, R2 values of 0.887 and 0.919 were achieved for the training and test sets, accompanied by RMSE values of 0.6 × 10−3 g·cm−2 and 0.7 × 10−3 g·cm−2, and MRE values of 3.198% and 2.901%, respectively. These findings lay a solid foundation for hyperspectral moisture monitoring in C. camphora and offer valuable reference for the rapid assessment of crop growth status.
Variations in the Vascular Bundle and Fiber Structure during the Stem Development of Rattan (Calamus caesius Blume)
Authors: Yu Linpeng , Zhang Kangjian , Dai Fukuan , Jiang Zehui , Chen Yuxuan , Wang Youhong , Tian Genlin
Published: November 2023

Calamus caesius is one of the most well-known commercial climbing palm species across the world. A comprehensive understanding of the growth-dependent variation in microstructure and polymer distribution can provide fundamental information to guide its end-use applications. In this study, we investigated the age-wise characteristics of rattan stems and the ultrastructure of fibers using electron microscopy, light microscopy, and FTIR. The results showed that the frequency of vascular bundles with a diameter of 0.55∼0.62 mm in C. caesius was 3.49∼3.97 pieces/mm2. The diameter and length of the metaxylem vessel were 0.32∼0.34 mm and 2.86∼3.00 mm, respectively. Cellulose, lignin, xylan, and HCA are mainly concentrated in the fiber sheath of vascular bundles. The distribution of major polymers in positions other than the top was relatively stable. The tissue proportion of parenchyma, xylem, and phloem did not differ significantly at different positions. The proportion of fibers from 22.27%∼25.33% showed significant differences. The fiber length was 1.43∼1.76 mm, and the diameter was 10.78∼12.63 μm. During the growth process of the rattan stem, the secondary wall of fiber cells continued to accumulate inward towards the cell cavity from 2 to 6 layers. The unique fiber properties and stable vascular bundle composition of C. caesius may have potential in fields such as composite materials or renewable energy.
Effect of Yogurt Acid Whey on the Quality of Maize Silage
Authors: Palamidi Irida , Paraskeuas Vasileios V. , Kotsampasi Basiliki , Hadjigeorgiou Ioannis , Politis Ioannis , Mountzouris Konstantinos C.
Published: November 2023

The increasing popularity of Greek yogurt generates large amounts of acid whey worldwide. The use of yogurt acid whey in animal nutrition is limited. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a yogurt acid whey powder (YAWP) addition to maize forage prior to ensiling on the nutritional, microbial and fermentation quality of maize silage. Depending on the addition level of the YAWP to maize forage, there were the following four experimental treatments: YAWP 0, 2.5, 5 and 10% w/w. An increasing YAWP inclusion level linearly increased the maize silage dry matter, crude protein and ash concentrations, whereas it reduced the crude fiber, neutral-detergent fiber and acid-detergent fiber concentrations. The silage pH decreased quadratically with the increasing YAWP level, with the lower plateau noted for the YAWP 5% addition. Concentrations of total bacteria in the silage and Lactobacillus spp. decreased linearly with the YAWP increase. The silage acetic acid content decreased linearly, whereas propionic acid, lactic acid and the ratio of lactic to acetic acid increased linearly with the increasing YAWP level. The ammonia-N content decreased linearly with the increasing YAWP level. In conclusion, the incorporation of the 5 and 10% YAWP addition in silage preparation improved the nutritional and fermentative quality of the produced silage.
n-3 PUFA Enriched Eggs as a Source of Valuable Bioactive Substances
Authors: Radanović Ana , Kralik Gordana , Drenjančević Ines , Galović Olivera , Košević Manuela , Kralik Zlata
Published: November 2023

This research elaborates the process of enriching table eggs with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) and presents the effect of such enriched eggs on human health. The experiment was performed on 480 TETRA SL laying hens divided into three groups. Feeding mixtures contained 5% of oils (K = soybean oil, P1 = 3.5% linseed oil + 1.5% fish oil, P2 = 3% linseed oil + 2% fish oil). Referring to the content of α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eggs of P1 and P2 groups were significantly richer in n-3 PUFA than eggs of the control group (p = 0.001). Atherogenic (AI), thrombogenic (TI), and hypo/hypercholesterolemic (HHI) indexes of egg yolks were more favourable in enriched eggs than in conventional eggs. Fatty acid profiles in the blood of examinees that consumed conventional and enriched eggs (treatments K and P1, respectively) differed significantly in total saturated fatty acids (ΣSFA) (p = 0.041) and in the content of ALA (p = 0.010). The consumption of n-3 PUFA-enriched eggs lowered the Σn-6 PUFA/Σn-3 PUFA ratio in the examinees’ blood serum (27%) and had a favourable effect on some blood biochemical indicators. This research confirmed the assumption that the use of a combination of fish and linseed oil in mixtures for laying hens in an amount of up to 5% will increase the content of omega-3 in table eggs, but it was not confirmed that the consumption of these eggs in a short period of time (21 days) has a positive effect on human health.
Valorization of Prickly Pear Peel Residues (Opuntia ficus-indica) Using Solid-State Fermentation
Authors: Coronado-Contreras Arturo , Ruelas-Chacón Xochitl , Reyes-Acosta Yadira K. , Dávila-Medina Miriam Desiree , Ascacio-Valdés Juan A. , Sepúlveda Leonardo
Published: November 2023

Prickly pear peel (Opuntia ficus-indica) residues can be used as a substrate in solid-state fermentation to obtain bioactive compounds. The kinetic growth of some Aspergillus strains was evaluated. A Box–Hunter and Hunter design to evaluate the independent factors was used. These factors were temperature (°C), inoculum (spores/g), humidity (%), pH, NaNO3 (g/L), MgSO4 (g/L), KCl (g/L), and KH2PO4 (g/L). The response factors were the amount of hydrolyzable and condensed tannins. The antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of fermentation extracts was evaluated. Aspergillus niger strains GH1 and HT3 were the best for accumulating tannins. The humidity, inoculum, and temperature affect the release of hydrolyzable and condensed tannins. Treatment 13 (low values for temperature, inoculum, NaNO3, MgSO4; and high values for humidity, pH, KCl, KH2PO4) resulted in 32.9 mg/g of condensed tannins being obtained; while treatment 16 (high values for all the factors evaluated) resulted in 3.5 mg/g of hydrolyzable tannins being obtained. In addition, the fermented extracts showed higher antioxidant activity compared to the unfermented extracts. Treatments 13 and 16 showed low inhibition of E. coli, Alternaria sp., and Botrytis spp. The solid-state fermentation process involving prickly pear peel residues favors the accumulation of condensed and hydrolyzable tannins, with antioxidant and antifungal activity.
Stability and Hopf Bifurcation Analysis of a Multi-Delay Vector-Borne Disease Model with Presence Awareness and Media Effect
Authors: Hu Lin , Nie Linfei
Published: November 2023

Vector-borne diseases, being one of the most difficult infectious diseases to understand, model, and control, account for a large proportion of human infectious diseases. In the current transmission process of infectious diseases, the latent period of pathogens in vivo, the influence of media coverage, and the presence of awareness on the spread and control of diseases are important factors that cannot be ignored. Based on this, a novel vector-borne disease model with latent delay and media coverage delay is proposed to discuss the impact of these factors. First, the global existence and ultimate boundedness of solutions for this model are obtained. Further, the exact expressions for the basic reproduction number are given, from which the existence and local stability of the disease-free and endemic equilibria are analyzed. Moreover, using the delay as a bifurcation parameter, we also discuss the existence, direction, and stability of the Hopf bifurcation. Finally, some numerical examples are carried out to explain the main theoretical results and discuss the impacts of the main parameters of this model on the transmission of vector-borne disease.
The Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome: From Genetics to Prognostic–Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Scorrano Giovanna , David Emanuele , Calì Elisa , Chimenz Roberto , La Bella Saverio , Di Ludovico Armando , Di Rosa Gabriella , Gitto Eloisa , Mankad Kshitij , Nardello Rosaria , Mangano Giuseppe Donato , Leoni Chiara , Ceravolo Giorgia
Published: November 2023

Cardiofaciocutaneous (CFC) syndrome is one of the rarest RASopathies characterized by multiple congenital ectodermal, cardiac and craniofacial abnormalities with a mild to severe ocular, gastrointestinal and neurological involvement. It is an autosomal dominant syndrome, with complete penetrance, caused by heterozygous pathogenic variants in the genes BRAF, MAP2K1/MEK1, MAP2K2/MEK2, KRAS or, rarely, YWHAZ, all part of the RAS-MAPK pathway. This pathway is a signal transduction cascade that plays a crucial role in normal cellular processes such as cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, survival, metabolism and migration. CFC syndrome overlaps with Noonan syndrome, Costello syndrome, neurofibromatosis type 1 and Legius syndrome, therefore making the diagnosis challenging. Neurological involvement in CFC is more severe than in other RASopathies. Phenotypic variability in CFC patients is related to the specific gene affected, without a recognized genotype–phenotype correlation for distinct pathogenic variants. Currently, there is no specific treatment for CFC syndrome. Encouraging zebrafish model system studies suggested that, in the future, MEK inhibitors could be a suitable treatment of progressive phenotypes of CFC in children. A multidisciplinary care is necessary for appropriate medical management.
Age and Sex Differences in Physical Activity of Portuguese Adults and Older Adults
Authors: Bento Teresa , Mota Maria P. , Vitorino Anabela , Monteiro Diogo , Cid Luís , Couto Nuno
Published: November 2023

This study aims to explore data on objectively measured physical activity from a sample of adults and older adults and to investigate the achievement of the minimum physical activity required for health benefits. Participants, 257 women (age 58.99 ± 18.93 years, BMI 26.75 ± 4.57 kg·m−2) and 178 men (age 49.22 ± 20.39 years, BMI 26.81 ± 3.51 kg·m−2), wore an accelerometer for 4 to 7 days. Approximately 40% of the time was spent daily in sedentary behaviors during waking hours. Our results do not sustain the suggestion that adult men are more physically active than women. The results indicated a decrease in intensity of physical activity with age, in men and women, but not in successive age groups. Around 75% of adults and 30% of older adults accumulated the minimum daily physical activity for health benefits, in periods shorter than 10 min, above moderate intensity. The number of steps taken per day revealed that most men and women (except the oldest) attained or exceeded the lower threshold for deriving health benefits. To obtain relevant health benefits, future physical activity interventions should aim at reversing the amount of sedentary behaviors, emphasizing increments in, at least, the lower levels of PA, and maintaining walking habits.
Advancing Cultural Heritage Structures Conservation: Integrating BIM and Cloud-Based Solutions for Enhanced Management and Visualization
Authors: Castellazzi Giovanni , Cardillo Enrico , Lo Presti Nicoló , D’Altri Antonio Maria , de Miranda Stefano , Bertani Gregorio , Ferretti Francesca , Mazzotti Claudio
Published: November 2023

Preserving and managing historical cultural heritage necessitates innovative approaches that harmonize technology with historical documentation. This paper presents a case study showcasing an adaptable online database tailored for the incorporation of Building Information Modeling (BIM) models and associated historical records. Notably, this approach offers distinctive integration with historical data, enabling users to contextualize heritage assets historically. The study delves into the database’s capabilities, focusing on its role in cultural heritage structure management. It explores interactive exploration, semantic querying, and attachment features, highlighting BIM’s potential in digital conservation, documentation, and archival efforts for historical structures. Additionally, the paper underscores the database’s significance as a valuable tool for education, research, and collaboration among heritage professionals and the public. While addressing specific modeling challenges, it emphasizes the importance of enhancing software solutions to elevate historical asset management. Historical BIM emerges as a powerful resource bridging the gap between historical structures’ conservation and modern technology.
Molecular Profiling of Lymphatic Endothelial Cell Activation In Vitro
Authors: Turati Marta , Mattei Gianluca , Boaretto Alessia , Magi Alberto , Calvani Maura , Ronca Roberto
Published: November 2023

The lymphatic vascular system plays a key role in cancer progression. Indeed, the activation of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) through the lymphangiogenic process allows for the formation of new lymphatic vessels (LVs) that represent the major route for the dissemination of solid tumors. This process is governed by a plethora of cancer-derived and microevironmental mediators that strictly activate and control specific molecular pathways in LECs. In this work we used an in vitro model of LEC activation to trigger lymphangiogenesis using a mix of recombinant pro-lymphangiogenic factors (VFS) and a co-culture system with human melanoma cells. Both systems efficiently activated LECs, and under these experimental conditions, RNA sequencing was exploited to unveil the transcriptional profile of activated LECs. Our data demonstrate that both recombinant and tumor cell-mediated activation trigger significant molecular pathways associated with endothelial activation, morphogenesis, and cytokine-mediated signaling. In addition, this system provides information on new genes to be further investigated in the lymphangiogenesis process and open the possibility for further exploitation in other tumor contexts where lymphatic dissemination plays a relevant role.
Adipocyte Microenvironment in Ovarian Cancer: A Critical Contributor?
Authors: Duarte Mendes Ana , Freitas Ana Rita , Vicente Rodrigo , Vitorino Marina , Vaz Batista Marta , Silva Michelle , Braga Sofia
Published: November 2023

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common gynecological malignancies and has low survival rates. One of the main determinants of this unfavorable prognosis is the high rate of peritoneal metastasis at diagnosis, closely related to its morbidity and mortality. The mechanism underlying peritoneal carcinomatosis is not clearly defined, but a clear preference for omental spread has been described. Growing evidence suggests that adipose tissue plays a role in promoting cancer onset and progression. Moreover, obesity can lead to changes in the original functions of adipocytes, resulting in metabolic and inflammatory changes in the adipose tissue microenvironment, potentially increasing the risk of tumor growth. However, the specific roles of adipocytes in ovarian cancer have not yet been fully elucidated. Due to the undeniable link between obesity and cancer, the adipose tissue microenvironment could also present a promising therapeutic target that warrants further research. This review discusses the complex relationship between ovarian cancer and the adipose tissue microenvironment.
Achilles’ Heel—The Significance of Maintaining Microenvironmental Homeostasis in the Nucleus Pulposus for Intervertebral Discs
Authors: Luo Zhangbin , Wei Ziyan , Zhang Guangzhi , Chen Haiwei , Li Lei , Kang Xuewen
Published: November 2023

The dysregulation of intracellular and extracellular environments as well as the aberrant expression of ion channels on the cell membrane are intricately linked to a diverse array of degenerative disorders, including intervertebral disc degeneration. This condition is a significant contributor to low back pain, which poses a substantial burden on both personal quality of life and societal economics. Changes in the number and function of ion channels can disrupt the water and ion balance both inside and outside cells, thereby impacting the physiological functions of tissues and organs. Therefore, maintaining ion homeostasis and stable expression of ion channels within the cellular microenvironment may prove beneficial in the treatment of disc degeneration. Aquaporin (AQP), calcium ion channels, and acid-sensitive ion channels (ASIC) play crucial roles in regulating water, calcium ions, and hydrogen ions levels. These channels have significant effects on physiological and pathological processes such as cellular aging, inflammatory response, stromal decomposition, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and accumulation of cell metabolites. Additionally, Piezo 1, transient receptor potential vanilloid type 4 (TRPV4), tension response enhancer binding protein (TonEBP), potassium ions, zinc ions, and tungsten all play a role in the process of intervertebral disc degeneration. This review endeavors to elucidate alterations in the microenvironment of the nucleus pulposus during intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), with a view to offer novel insights and approaches for exploring therapeutic interventions against disc degeneration.
Impact of Treatment with Antioxidants as an Adjuvant to Standard Therapy in Patients with Septic Shock: Analysis of the Correlation between Cytokine Storm and Oxidative Stress and Therapeutic Effects
Authors: Pérez-Torres Israel , Aisa-Álvarez Alfredo , Casarez-Alvarado Sergio , Borrayo Gabriela , Márquez-Velasco Ricardo , Guarner-Lans Verónica , Manzano-Pech Linaloe , Cruz-Soto Randall , Gonzalez-Marcos Omar , Fuentevilla-Álvarez Giovanny , Gamboa Ricardo , Saucedo-Orozco Huitizilihuitl , Franco-Granillo Juvenal , Soto María Elena
Published: November 2023

Cellular homeostasis is lost or becomes dysfunctional during septic shock due to the activation of the inflammatory response and the deregulation of oxidative stress. Antioxidant therapy administered alongside standard treatment could restore this lost homeostasis. We included 131 patients with septic shock who were treated with standard treatment and vitamin C (Vit C), vitamin E (Vit E), N-acetylcysteine (NAC), or melatonin (MT), in a randomized trial. Organ damage quantified by Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, and we determined levels of Interleukins (IL) IL1β, Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), IL-6, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), Transforming growth factor B (TGFβ), IL-4, IL-10, IL-12, and Interferon-γ (IFNγ). The SOFA score decreased in patients treated with Vit C, NAC, and MT. Patients treated with MT had statistically significantly reduced of IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, and IL-10 levels. Lipid peroxidation, Nitrates and nitrites (NO3− and NO2−), glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase decreased after treatment with Vit C, Vit E, NAC, and MT. The levels of thiols recovered with the use of Vit E, and all patients treated with antioxidants maintained their selenium levels, in contrast with controls (p = 0.04). The findings regarding oxidative stress markers and cytokines after treatment with antioxidants allow us to consider to future the combined use of antioxidants in a randomized clinical trial with a larger sample to demonstrate the reproducibility of these beneficial effects.
Particle Filtering for Source Depth and Water Depth Joint Tracking in Shallow Water
Authors: Zhou Yuyuan , Sun Chao , Xie Lei
Published: November 2023

Environmental mismatch degrades the performance of source localization and tracking methods in shallow water. One solution is to estimate source parameters and the key environmental parameters simultaneously from the acoustic data. In this paper, an unconventional approach of joint tracking source depth and water depth parameters by a particle filter is proposed. This approach is free of prior environmental knowledge and numerical calculation of any forward model. First, a state-space model based on modal nature behavior is established driving the shallow-water propagation, instead of modeling in time or space, as was done previous works. Subsequently, particle filtering is employed for joint tracking, in which the evolution with mode-order of vertical wavenumbers and the relationship between state parameters and beam-wavenumber outputs transformed from the data are exploited. Final, the particle smoother reduces the uncertainty of state parameters at initial steps, and improves the overall tracking accuracy. Our approach is demonstrated using simulated data in an ideal waveguide and applied to shallow-water SWellEx-96 experimental data to substantiate its superior performance.
Smooth Sliding Mode Control for Path Following of Underactuated Surface Vehicles Based on LOS Guidance
Authors: Wang Yuchao , Qu Yinsong , Zhao Shiquan , Cajo Ricardo , Fu Huixuan
Published: November 2023

In this paper, a solution to the problem of following a curved path for underactuated unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) with unknown sideslip angle and model uncertainties is studied. A novel smooth sliding mode control (SSMC) based on a finite-time extended state observer (FTESO) for heading control is proposed. Firstly, the model of a USV with rudderless double thrusters is established. Secondly, the path-following error dynamics of a USV is established in a path-tangential reference frame. Thirdly, a finite-time observer is introduced to estimate the unidentified sideslip angle, and the line-of-sight (LOS) guidance law is applied to produce the desired heading angle. Finally, an SSMC controller is proposed to force USV tracking at the desired heading angle and surge speed, in which FTESO is used to estimate and compensate the unknown disturbance in sliding mode dynamics. The theoretical analysis for FTESO-SSMC verifies that the controller can provide finite-time convergence to and stability on the sliding surface. Simulation studies and contrast test are conducted to demonstrate the robustness and rapidity of the proposed FTESO-SSMC controller.
A Novel Method for Fatigue Damage Assessment in Bimodal Processes Considering High- and Low-Frequency Reduction Effects
Authors: Guo Yuanzhi , Wang Shuqing , Guo Haiyan , Song Xiancang
Published: November 2023

Due to inherent nonlinearities within floating systems and the second-order wave forces affecting them, the dynamic responses of floating systems manifest as bimodal Gaussian processes. Consequently, the classical spectral fatigue assessment method grounded in the Rayleigh distribution cannot be applied. This paper introduces the double frequency coupled (DFC) method as a spectral fatigue assessment approach, providing an accurate estimation of fatigue damage originating from bimodal Gaussian processes. Within the DFC method, the bimodal Gaussian process is partitioned into two components: low-frequency (LF) and high-frequency (HF) processes. A Gaussian distribution is employed to describe the probability distribution function (PDF) of the amplitude reduction induced by the interaction between LF and HF processes. The PDF of small-cycle fatigue can be computed by convoluting the PDF of HF amplitudes and the reduction amplitude between LF and HF. Similarly, the PDF of large-cycle fatigue can be determined through convolution, which involves the PDF of LF amplitudes and small-cycle fatigue. The overall fatigue damage arising from the bimodal Gaussian process is obtained by directly summing the contributions of small-cycle and large-cycle fatigue. Numerical investigations of the DFC method’s effectiveness are presented through a series of parametric studies, demonstrating its robustness, efficiency, and accuracy within engineering expectations. Furthermore, the DFC method is found to be applicable to both single-slope and two-slope S-N curves.
The Transition of Forest Cover and Its Cultural Values in Shrine/Temple Forests in the Mountainous and Foothill Areas of Kyoto City: A Study Based on Topographic Maps and Aerial Photos
Authors: Funahashi Tomomi , Shibata Shozo
Published: November 2023

There is growing interest in the diverse roles of forests in addressing climate change and biodiversity goals. Recent studies have indicated a disregard for the cultural values of forests that have been formed in close association with human activities. This may potentially lead to the loss of cultural characteristics, traditional forest knowledge, and biodiversity. This study explores historical forest dynamics and their unique cultural values from the end of the 19th century in 15 shrine/temple forests located in the mountainous and foothill areas of Kyoto city. Using geographical information systems (GIS) based on topographic maps and aerial photographs, this study investigates the forest composition in the 1890s, 1980s, and from 2010. The results indicate that approximately half of the targeted shrine/temple forests were composed of low Pinus densiflora forests and coppice forests in the 1890s. Between the 1890s and 1910s, coniferous forests were planted in these areas with the intention of land conservation and timber production. This distinctive forest cover became a typical characteristic for shrine/temple forests until the 1980s. However, from the 1980s, a decrease in the cultural value of shrine/temple forests was observed due to the lack of human activities in these forests. As a result, the distinction between shrine/temple forests and the surrounding forests has become blurred. This could potentially cause the homogenization of cultural characteristics. This study aims to inform readers of the cultural value associated with the historical landscape and biodiversity found in shrine/temple forests.
Examining the Safety Profile of Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitors in the Management of Immune-Mediated Diseases: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kraev Krasimir , Geneva-Popova Mariela Gencheva , Hristov Bozhidar Krasimirov , Uchikov Petar Angelov , Belova-Popova Stanislava Dimitrova , Kraeva Maria Ilieva , Basheva-Kraeva Yordanka Mincheva , Stoyanova Nina Staneva , Mitkova-Hristova Vesela Todorova , Koleva-Ivanova Maria Stoyanova , Taneva Daniela Ivova , Ivanov Atanas Slavchev
Published: November 2023

Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have heralded a paradigm shift in the management of immune-mediated diseases. While their efficacy is well-established, the safety concerns associated with these agents, particularly regarding thromboembolic events (TE), remain a focus of extensive research and clinical scrutiny. This comprehensive literature review embarks on an exploration of the multifaceted landscape of JAK inhibitors, providing insights into their safety profiles across diverse immune-mediated diseases. The introduction highlights the transformative influence of JAK inhibitors in the treatment of immune-mediated diseases. Historically, the therapeutic arsenal for these conditions included corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologics. The advent of JAK inhibitors has revolutionized this landscape, although concerns about their safety persist. This review strives to comprehensively evaluate their safety, amalgamating knowledge from multiple studies and trials. The subsequent sections delve into the safety of specific JAK inhibitors in the context of rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, and dermatologic conditions and their associations with venous thromboembolism. The evolving understanding of TE risk, particularly the intricate relationship between these agents and immune-mediated diseases, is meticulously unravelled. The concluding remarks underscore the dynamic nature of TE risk assessment with regard to immune-mediated diseases involving JAK inhibitors. It underscores that risk assessment is multifactorial, influenced not only by the choice of JAK inhibitor but also by the nuances of the underlying immune-mediated disease and the unique patient characteristics. This review offers a holistic perspective on TE risks associated with JAK inhibitors and contributes to the ongoing dialogue regarding their safety in the realm of immune-mediated diseases.
Dynamic Instability of Rigid Shoe Modes in a Drum Brake System
Authors: Seo Dongwoo , Kang Jaeyoung
Published: November 2023

This study examined the dynamic instability of a drum brake induced by the rigid modes of the brake shoe. The brake shoe was modeled as a rigid curved plate subject to frictional contact with a rotating drum. In the presence of a negatively sloped friction curve, dynamic instability was numerically analyzed with respect to variation in the system parameters. The results showed that mode-coupling instability did not occur, but dynamic instability was induced by negative damping in a specific rigid mode, and its propensity varied with the operating conditions and geometric changes.
Dissipative Particle Dynamic Simulation on Self-Assembly of Symmetric CBABC Pentablock Terpolymers in Solution
Authors: Guo Yingying
Published: November 2023

Pentablock terpolymers are potential candidates for the self-assembly of multicompartment nanostructures. In this work, Dissipative Particle Dynamic simulation is employed to investigate how the equilibrium aggregate structures of C3B3A6B3C3 pentablock terpolymers are affected by polymer–solvent interactions in a solution. Multicompartment structures, such as layered micelles, onion-like micelles, onion-like vesicles, unilamellar vesicles, and vesicle-in-vesicle structures, are observed. Vesicles are obtained when the two end C-blocks or the central A-block are hydrophilic. The solvent encapsulation ability and vesicle membrane permeability are assessed. The unilamellar vesicle shows higher encapsulation efficiency and lower membrane permeability compared with the onion-like vesicles. Additionally, the two vesicles show different responses to shear. While the cargo release rate of the onion-like vesicle is not affected by shear, shear results in a slowdown of the release rate for the unilamellar vesicle. The membrane thickness of the unilamellar vesicle can be adjusted using the length of the central A-blocks. Vesicles with thicker membranes hold cargo more effectively.
DNA Code Design Based on the Cosets of Codes over Z4
Authors: Alahmadi Adel N. , Melibari Fatimah Anas , Gupta Manish K.
Published: November 2023

DNA code design is a challenging problem, and it has received great attention in the literature due to its applications in DNA data storage, DNA origami, and DNA computing. The primary focus of this paper is in constructing new DNA codes using the cosets of linear codes over the ring Z4. The Hamming distance constraint, GC-content constraint, and homopolymers constraint are all considered. In this study, we consider the cosets of Simplex alpha code, Kerdock code, Preparata code, and Hadamard code. New DNA codes of lengths four, eight, sixteen, and thirty-two are constructed using a combination of an algebraic coding approach and a variable neighborhood search approach. In addition, good lower bounds for DNA codes that satisfy important constraints have been successfully established using Magma software V2.24-4 and Python 3.10 programming in our comprehensive methodology.
pH-Dependent Adsorption of Human Serum Albumin Protein on a Polystyrene-Block–Poly(acrylic acid)-Coated PVDF Membrane
Authors: Merzougui Charaf-Eddine , Aimar Pierre , Bacchin Patrice , Causserand Christel
Published: November 2023

This study reports the investigation of human serum albumin (HSA) adsorption on a poy-styrene-block–poly(acrylic acid) (PS-b-PAA)-coated PVDF membrane, which is a potential smart material for biomedical applications. First, copolymer coating on the membrane surface was successfully performed, due to the hydrophobic interaction of the PS anchoring group with the PVDF membrane. This was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) characterization of the membrane. Then, HSA adsorption onto the coated membrane was assessed and was proved to be strongly dependent on the pH of the protein solution. Indeed, both FTIR mapping and mass balance calculation using UV–visible spectroscopy displayed a greater HSA adsorption on the membrane at pH 5, even though it still took place at higher pH, but to a lower extent. Afterwards, an ionic strength influence study evinced the role of electrostatic interactions between HSA and the PAA layer on HSA adsorption. Dead-end filtration of HSA through the coated membrane confirmed the pH dependence of HSA adsorption on the coated membrane.
Recent Progress in Transition Metal Dichalcogenides for Electrochemical Biomolecular Detection
Authors: Madhurantakam Sasya , Mathew Georgeena , David Bianca Elizabeth , Naqvi Aliya , Prasad Shalini
Published: November 2023

Advances in the field of nanobiotechnology are largely due to discoveries in the field of materials. Recent developments in the field of electrochemical biosensors based on transition metal nanomaterials as transducer elements have been beneficial as they possess various functionalities that increase surface area and provide well-defined active sites to accommodate elements for rapid detection of biomolecules. In recent years, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have become the focus of interest in various applications due to their considerable physical, chemical, electronic, and optical properties. It is worth noting that their unique properties can be modulated by defect engineering and morphology control. The resulting multifunctional TMD surfaces have been explored as potential capture probes for the rapid and selective detection of biomolecules. In this review, our primary focus is to delve into the synthesis, properties, design, and development of electrochemical biosensors that are based on transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) for the detection of biomolecules. We aim to explore the potential of TMD-based electrochemical biosensors, identify the challenges that need to be overcome, and highlight the opportunities for further future development.
An Ankle Joint Flexion and Extension Movement-Monitoring Device Based on Pressure Sensors
Authors: Xu Chunying , Zhou Yu , Ji Jian , Wei Chuliang
Published: November 2023

Ankle joint flexion and extension movements play an important role in the rehabilitation training of patients who have been injured or bedridden for a long time before and after surgery. Accurately guiding patients to perform ankle flexion and extension movements can significantly reduce deep vein thromboembolism. Currently, most ankle rehabilitation devices focus on assisting patients with ankle flexion and extension movements, and there is a lack of devices for effectively monitoring these movements. In this study, we designed an ankle joint flexion and extension movement-monitoring device based on a pressure sensor. It was composed of an STM32 microcontroller, a pressure sensor, an HX711A/D conversion chip, and an ESP8266 WiFi communication module. The value of the force and the effective number of ankle joint flexion and extension movements were obtained. An experimental device was designed to verify the accuracy of the system. The maximum average error was 0.068 N; the maximum average relative error was 1.7%; the maximum mean-squared error was 0.00464 N. The results indicated that the monitoring device had a high accuracy and could effectively monitor the force of ankle flexion and extension movements, ultimately ensuring that the patient could effectively monitor and grasp the active ankle pump movement.
Multi-Omics Profiling of Candida albicans Grown on Solid Versus Liquid Media
Authors: Alhameed Rouba Abdulsalam , Semreen Mohammad H. , Hamad Mohamad , Giddey Alexander D. , Sulaiman Ashna , Al Bataineh Mohammad T. , Al-Hroub Hamza M. , Bustanji Yasser , Alzoubi Karem H. , Soares Nelson C.
Published: November 2023

Candida albicans is a common pathogenic fungus that presents a challenge to healthcare facilities. It can switch between a yeast cell form that diffuses through the bloodstream to colonize internal organs and a filamentous form that penetrates host mucosa. Understanding the pathogen’s strategies for environmental adaptation and, ultimately, survival, is crucial. As a complementary study, herein, a multi-omics analysis was performed using high-resolution timsTOF MS to compare the proteomes and metabolomes of Wild Type (WT) Candida albicans (strain DK318) grown on agar plates versus liquid media. Proteomic analysis revealed a total of 1793 proteins and 15,013 peptides. Out of the 1403 identified proteins, 313 proteins were significantly differentially abundant with a p-value < 0.05. Of these, 156 and 157 proteins were significantly increased in liquid and solid media, respectively. Metabolomics analysis identified 192 metabolites in total. The majority (42/48) of the significantly altered metabolites (p-value 0.05 FDR, FC 1.5), mainly amino acids, were significantly higher in solid media, while only 2 metabolites were significantly higher in liquid media. The combined multi-omics analysis provides insight into adaptative morphological changes supporting Candida albicans’ life cycle and identifies crucial virulence factors during biofilm formation and bloodstream infection.
Identification, Characterization, and Production Optimization of 6-Methoxy-1H-Indole-2-Carboxylic Acid Antifungal Metabolite Produced by Bacillus toyonensis Isolate OQ071612
Authors: El-Sayed Sayed E. , Abdelaziz Neveen A. , Ali Amer Al , Alshahrani Mohammad Y. , Aboshanab Khaled M. , El-Housseiny Ghadir S.
Published: November 2023

Fungal infections currently pose a real threat to human lives. In the current study, soil bacterial isolates were screened for the production of antifungal compounds to combat human fungal pathogens. Notably, the bacterial F1 isolate exhibited antimycotic action towards the Candida albicans ATCC 10231 and Aspergillus niger clinical isolates. By employing phenotypic and molecular techniques, we identified the F1 isolate as the Bacillus toyonensis isolate OQ071612. The purified extract showed stability within a pH range of 6–7 and at temperatures of up to 50 °C. It demonstrated potential antifungal activity in the presence of various surfactants, detergents, and enzymes. The purified extract was identified as 6-methoxy-1H-Indole-2-carboxylic acid using advanced spectroscopic techniques. To optimize the antifungal metabolite production, we utilized response surface methodology (RSM) with a face-centered central composite design, considering nutritional and environmental variables. The optimal conditions were as follows: starch (5 g/L), peptone (5 g/L), agitation rate of 150 rpm, pH 6, and 40 °C temperature. A confirmatory experiment validated the accuracy of the optimization process, resulting in an approximately 3.49-fold increase in production. This is the first documented report on the production and characterization of 6-methoxy-1H-Indole-2-carboxylic acid (MICA) antifungal metabolite from Bacillus toyonensis.