bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EHFP-GAN: Edge-Enhanced Hierarchical Feature Pyramid Network for Damaged QR Code Reconstruction
Authors: Zheng Jianhua , Zhao Ruolin , Lin Zhongju , Liu Shuangyin , Zhu Rong , Zhang Zihao , Fu Yusha , Lu Junde
Published: October 2023

In practical usage, QR codes often become difficult to recognize due to damage. Traditional restoration methods exhibit a limited effectiveness for severely damaged or densely encoded QR codes, are time-consuming, and have limitations in addressing extensive information loss. To tackle these challenges, we propose a two-stage restoration model named the EHFP-GAN, comprising an edge restoration module and a QR code reconstruction module. The edge restoration module guides subsequent restoration by repairing the edge images, resulting in finer edge details. The hierarchical feature pyramid within the QR code reconstruction module enhances the model’s global image perception. Using our custom dataset, we compare the EHFP-GAN against several mainstream image processing models. The results demonstrate the exceptional restoration performance of the EHFP-GAN model. Specifically, across various levels of contamination, the EHFP-GAN achieves significant improvements in the recognition rate and image quality metrics, surpassing the comparative models. For instance, under mild contamination, the EHFP-GAN achieves a recognition rate of 95.35%, while under a random contamination, it reaches 31.94%, both outperforming the comparative models. In conclusion, the EHFP-GAN model demonstrates remarkable efficacy in the restoration of damaged QR codes.
What Do Medical Students Learn about Community Care from Discussions with General Physicians? A Thematic Analysis
Authors: Ohta Ryuichi , Nishikura Nozomi , Sano Chiaki
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: Sustainable healthcare is fundamentally rooted in community medicine education. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global advancement in integrating traditional teaching and experiential learning. Additionally, an alarming decline in interest in community care has been observed among senior medical students. Here, we examined the perspectives on community care obtained from conversations with general physicians in rural medical universities. Materials and Methods: Using a constructivist lens, a qualitative methodology was employed to examine the perceptions of second-year medical students from Shimane University Medical School regarding community care, informed by dialogues with general physicians. We conducted a thematic analysis at Shimane University, Japan, an area known for its aging population. In 2023, 116 second-year students participated, none of whom had prior formal training in community care. The study was structured into three phases: (1) Pre-education: Students wrote essays about their initial understanding of community care, its advantages, disadvantages, and potential improvements; (2) Dialogue: Grouped by topic, students engaged in discussions that culminated in a comprehensive session with general physicians; and (3) Reflection: After discussions, students wrote essays reflecting any shift in their views on community care. A thematic analysis of essays from the pre-education and reflection phases provided a comparative perspective on the students’ understanding. Results: Five dominant themes emerged from the thematic analysis: (1) Re-evaluating community care: Recognizing diversity and addressing societal challenges; (2) Interdisciplinary collaboration: Promoting shared roles and teamwork; (3) Learning and practice: Emphasizing hands-on experience and self-reflection; (4) Technological influence: The mutual relationship between community care and technological advancements; and (5) Challenges and resolutions: Identifying problems and crafting solutions. Conclusions: This study sheds light on the evolution of medical students’ views on community care and underscores the importance of continuous adaptation in medical education programs.
Intraocular Inflammation Secondary to Intravitreal Brolucizumab Injection for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration in a Patient with Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Ueji Natsuki , Mase Yoko , Kubo Akiko , Matsubara Hisashi , Chujo Shinichiro , Matsui Yoshitsugu , Kondo Mineo
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: Brolucizumab (IVBr) is a recently introduced anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) which has been found to be very effective in treating neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). We reported our findings in a case of nAMD that developed intraocular inflammation (IOI) after IVBr injections. Materials and Methods: A 79-year-old man was referred to our hospital complaining of reduced vision in both eyes of one-month’s duration. His decimal best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.9 in the right eye and 1.0 in the left eye. He was diagnosed with nAMD in the left eye and was treated with intravitreal aflibercept (IVA). Despite the three-monthly IVA injections, the serous retinal pigment epithelial detachment (PED) and subretinal fluid (SRF) remained, and the VA gradually decreased to 0.1. Because of the patient being refractory to aflibercept treatment, we switched to 3-monthly IVBr injections. The BCVA gradually improved to 0.3 and optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed an absence of the serous PED and SRF. Three weeks after his third IVBr, he returned to our hospital with a complaint of reduced vision in his left eye that he first noted two weeks earlier. Our examination of the left eye showed signs of IOI mainly in the anterior chamber. The inflammation improved with topical steroids but the treatment of the IOI was delayed for two weeks. The patient was instructed that it was important to begin the treatment as soon as the symptoms of IOI developed. We then performed the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and his score indicated that he had cognitive impairment. Conclusions: We concluded that before beginning IVBr treatment in nAMD patients, a careful assessment must be made of the cognitive status of the patient.
Protecting Tear-Film Stability under Adverse Environmental Conditions Using a Mucomimetic with a Non-Newtonian Viscosity Agent
Authors: Abusharha Ali , Pearce E. Ian , Afsar Tayyaba , Razak Suhail
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: Tamarind-seed polysaccharide (TSP) and hyaluronic acid (HA) have mucoadhesive properties that improve drug absorption and delay in drug elimination from the ocular surface. We aimed to evaluate TSP/HA-containing formulation for its efficiency in dry-eye symptoms induced by adverse environments and the interaction between mucomimic polymer and tear-film parameters. Materials and Methods: The participants were exposed to 5% relative humidity (RH) in a Controlled Environment Chamber (CEC) under constant room temperature (21 °C). Tear-film parameters were assessed at 40% RH and 5% RH. Rohto Dry Eye Relief drops were used in the two treatment modalities, protection (drops instilled before exposure to the dry environment) and relief (drops instilled after exposure to the dry environment). The HIRCAL grid, Servomed EP3 Evaporimeter, and Keeler’s TearScope-Plus were used to screen for non-invasive tear break-up time (NITBUT), tear evaporation rate, and lipid-layer thickness (LLT) using protection and relief treatment methodology. Results: LLT was found to be significantly thinner at 5% RH compared with at 40% RH (p = 0.007). The median LLT dropped from 50–70 nm (grade 3) at 40% RH to 10–50 nm (grade 2) at 5% RH. TSP/HA eye drops significantly augment LLT in both treatment modalities, protection (p = 0.01) and relief (p = 0.004) at 5% RH. The mean evaporation rate doubled from 40.93 at 40% RH to 82.42 g/m2/h after exposure to 5% RH. In protection mode, the TSP/HA allowed the average evaporation rate to be much lower than when no TSP/HA was used at 5% RH (p < 0.008). No alteration in evaporation rate was recorded when the TSP/HA drop was used after exposure (relief). The mean NITBUT was reduced from 13 s in normal conditions to 6 s in the dry environment. Instillation of TSP/HA eye drops resulted in significant improvement (p = 0.006) in tear stability, where the NITBUT increased to 8 s in both protection (before exposure) and relief (after exposure) (p = 0.001). Although improved, these values were still significantly lower than NITBUT observed at 40% RH. Conclusions: Significant protection of tear-film parameters was recorded post instillation of TSP/HA eye drop under a desiccating environment. Both treatment methods (protection and relief) were shown to be effective. The presence of TSP/HA enhances the effectiveness of teardrops in protecting the tear-film parameters when exposed to adverse environments.
Nutritional Implications of Bariatric Surgery on Pregnancy Management—A Narrative Review of the Literature
Authors: Różańska-Walędziak Anna , Walędziak Maciej , Mierzejewska Anna , Skopińska Ewa , Jędrysik Malwina , Chełstowska Beata
Published: October 2023

One in three women of reproductive age is obese. The mainstay treatment for obesity is bariatric surgery, and the following weight reduction results in a decrease in pregnancy adverse effects, including gestational diabetes mellitus, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and macrosomia. However, nutritional and vitamin deficiencies due to changes in the gastrointestinal tract after bariatric surgery are associated with an increase in the risk of fetal growth retardation and small for gestational-age neonates. The purpose of this review was to analyze the available recent literature on the subject of the management of pregnancy after bariatric surgery. We searched for available articles from 2007 to 2023 and chose articles of the greatest scientific and clinical value. Micronutrient, vitamin, and protein supplementation is recommended in the prenatal period and throughout the pregnancy. It is advised that pregnant women with a history of bariatric surgery should be provided with regular specialist dietary care. There is still a lack of recommendations about the optimum gestational weight gain after different types of bariatric surgery and for patients of different metabolic statuses. Women of reproductive age undergoing bariatric procedures should be provided with appropriate counseling about adequate contraception, the recommended time-to-conception interval, and the positive and negative influence of bariatric surgery on perinatal outcomes.
Cascaded 2D Micromirror with Application to LiDAR
Authors: Ghazinouri Behrad , He Siyuan
Published: October 2023

This paper introduced a novel approach to enhance the vertical scanning angle of a large aperture 2D electromagnetic micromirror through the utilization of a cascaded torsional beam design. The primary objective was to increase the vertical scanning angle without compromising the robustness, which was achieved by optimizing the trade-off between the rotation angle and the first mode of resonant frequency. The cascaded design provides flexibility to either increase the outer frame’s rotation angle without sacrificing torsional stiffness or enhance the torsion beam’s stiffness while maintaining the same rotation angle, thus elevating the first-mode resonant frequency and overall robustness. The effectiveness of the cascaded design was demonstrated through a comparative study with a non-cascaded 2D micromirror possessing the same aperture size, torque, and mass moment of inertia. Theoretical analysis and finite-element simulation are employed to determine critical parameters such as the stiffness ratio between the cascaded torsion beams, and to predict improvements in the scanning angle and primary resonant frequency brought by the cascaded design. Prototypes of both cascaded and non-cascaded designs are fabricated using a flexible printed circuit board combined with Computer numerical control (CNC) machining of a Ti-alloy thin film, confirming the superior performance of the cascaded 2D micromirror. The cascaded design achieved vertical scanning angles up to 26% higher than the traditional design when both were actuated at close resonance frequencies. Additionally, the micromirror was successfully integrated into a 3D LiDAR system. The light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system was modelled in Zemax OpticStudio to find the optimized design and assembly positions.
In Vitro Assessment of the Antidiabetic and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Artemisia absinthium, Artemisia vulgaris and Trigonella foenum-graecum Extracts Processed Using Membrane Technologies
Authors: Neagu Elena , Paun Gabriela , Albu Camelia , Apreutesei Oana Teodora , Radu Gabriel Lucian
Published: October 2023

Recently, there has been increased interest in the discovery of new natural herbal remedies for treating diabetes and inflammatory diseases. In this context, this work analyzed the antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory potential of Artemisia absinthium, Artemisia vulgaris and Trigonella foenum-graecum herbs, which have been studied less from this point of view. Therefore, extracts were prepared and processed using membrane technologies, micro- and ultrafiltration, to concentrate the biologically active principles. The polyphenol and flavone contents in the extracts were analyzed. The qualitative analysis of the polyphenolic compounds was performed via HPLC, identifying chlorogenic acid, rosmarinic acid and rutin in A. absinthium; chlorogenic acid, luteolin and rutin in A. vulgaris; and genistin in T. foenum-graecum. The antidiabetic activity of the extracts was analyzed by testing their ability to inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase, and the anti-inflammatory activity was analyzed by testing their ability to inhibit hyaluronidase and lipoxygenase. Thus, the concentrated extracts of T. foenum-graecum showed high inhibitory activity on a-amylase—IC50 = 3.22 ± 0.3 μg/mL—(compared with acarbose—IC50 = 3.5 ± 0.18 μg/mL) and high inhibitory activity on LOX—IC50 = 19.69 ± 0.52 μg/mL (compared with all standards used). The concentrated extract of A. vulgaris showed increased α-amylase inhibition activity—IC50 = 8.57 ± 2.31 μg/mL—compared to acarbose IC50 = 3.5 ± 0.18 μg/mL. The concentrated extract of A. absinthium showed pronounced LOX inhibition activity—IC50 = 19.71 ± 0.79 μg/mL—compared to ibuprofen—IC50 = 20.19 ± 1.25 μg/mL.
Role of Computer-Aided Drug Design in Drug Development
Authors: Gu Ruoxu , Wu Fengxu , Huang Zunnan
Published: October 2023

The introduction of computational techniques to pharmaceutical chemistry and molecular biology in the 20th century has changed the way people develop drugs [...]
Computational Modeling of Gold Nanoparticle Interacting with Molecules of Pharmaceutical Interest in Water
Authors: Fusaro Massimo , Leś Andrzej , Stolarczyk Elżbieta U. , Stolarczyk Krzysztof
Published: October 2023

We derived a theory of biomolecule binding to the surface of Aun clusters and of the Au plane based on the hard soft acid base (HSAB) principle and the free electron metallic surface model. With the use of quantum mechanical calculations, the chemical potential (μ) and the chemical hardness (η) of the biomolecules are estimated. The effect of the gold is introduced via the empirical value of the gold chemical potential (−5.77 eV) as well as by using the expression (modified here) for the chemical hardness (η). The effect of an aqueous environment is introduced by means of the ligand molecular geometry influenced by the PCM field. This theory allows for a fast and low-cost estimation of binding biomolecules to the AuNPs surface. The predicted binding of thiolated genistein and abiraterone to the gold surface is about 20 kcal/mol. The model of the exchange reaction between these biomolecules and citrates on the Au surface corresponds well with the experimental observations for thiolated abiraterone. Moreover, using a model of the place exchange of linear mercaptohydrocarbons on 12-mercaptododecane acid methyl ester bound to the Au surface, the present results reflect the known relation between exchange energy and the size of the reagents.
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Antitumor Activity of Fucoidan from the Brown Alga Dictyota dichotoma
Authors: El-Sheekh Mostafa M. , Ward Fatma , Deyab Mohamed A. , Al-Zahrani Majid , Touliabah Hussein E.
Published: October 2023

Brown macroalgae are a rich source of fucoidans with many pharmacological uses. This research aimed to isolate and characterize fucoidan from Dictyota dichotoma var. dichotoma (Hudson) J.V. Lamouroux and evaluate in vitro its antioxidant and antitumor potential. The fucoidan yield was 0.057 g/g algal dry wt with a molecular weight of about 48.6 kDa. In terms of fucoidan composition, the sulfate, uronic acid, and protein contents were 83.3 ± 5.20 mg/g fucoidan, 22.5 ± 0.80 mg/g fucoidan, and 26.1 ± 1.70 mg/g fucoidan, respectively. Fucose was the primary sugar component, as were glucose, galactose, mannose, xylose, and glucuronic acid. Fucoidan exhibited strong antioxidant potential that increased by more than 3 times with the increase in concentration from 0.1 to 5.0 mg/mL. Moreover, different concentrations of fucoidan (0.05–1 mg/mL) showed their ability to decrease the viability of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells in a time-dependent manner. These findings provided a fast method to obtain an appreciable amount of natural fucoidan with established structural characteristics as a promising compound with pronounced antioxidant and anticancer activity.
Current and Potential Applications of Monoterpenes and Their Derivatives in Oral Health Care
Authors: Potocka Wiktoria , Assy Zainab , Bikker Floris J. , Laine Marja L.
Published: October 2023

Plant products have been employed in medicine for centuries. As the world becomes more health-conscious, there is a growing interest in natural and minimally processed products for oral health care. This has led to an increase in research into the bioactive compounds found in plant products, particularly monoterpenes. Monoterpenes are known to have beneficial biological properties, but the specific mechanisms by which they exert their effects are not yet fully understood. Despite this, some monoterpenes are already being used in oral health care. For example, thymol, which has antibacterial properties, is an ingredient in varnish used for caries prevention. In addition to this, monoterpenes have also demonstrated antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, making them versatile for various applications. As research continues, there is potential for even more discoveries regarding the benefits of monoterpenes in oral health care. This narrative literature review gives an overview of the biological properties and current and potential applications of selected monoterpenes and their derivatives in oral health care. These compounds demonstrate promising potential for future medical development, and their applications in future research are expected to expand.
Theoretical Exploration of Properties of Iron–Silicon Interface Constructed by Depositing Fe on Si(111)-(7×7)
Authors: Yin Jun-Qing , Zhang Yan-Ping , You Yong , Wang Zhen-Hua , Zhao Jian-Qiang , Peng Qing
Published: October 2023

Exploring the properties of magnetic metal on the semiconductor surface is of great significance for the application of magnetic recording materials. Herein, DFT calculations are carried out to explore the properties of the iron–silicon interface structures (nFe/DASF) formed by depositing n Fe atoms on the reconstructed Si(111)-(7×7) surface (DASF). The stable nFe/DASF structures are studied in the cases of the adsorption and permeation of Fe atoms on the DASF. In both cases, Fe atoms are not very dispersed and prefer binding with Si atoms rather than the adsorbed Fe atoms, because the Fe-Si interaction is stronger than the Fe-Fe interaction. As the n value increases, the average binding energy (Eb_ave) of Fe generally firstly becomes more negative and then becomes less negative, with the presence of a 7Fe wheel as a stable geometry on the upmost surface. The presence of the 7Fe wheel is attributed to the enhanced Fe-Si interaction in this wheel compared to other geometries. CO adsorption occurs at the central Fe site of the 7Fe wheel which is greatly influenced by the surrounding Si atoms but is little influenced by the additional Fe atoms in the interlayer.
Two Birds with One Stone: A Novel Dithiomaleimide-Based GalNAc-siRNA Conjugate Enabling Good siRNA Delivery and Traceability
Authors: Kong Sudong , Gao Xiaoqing , Wang Qianhui , Lin Jianguo , Qiu Ling , Xie Minhao
Published: October 2023

For the first time, a novel dithiomaleimides (DTM) based tetra-antennary GalNAc conjugate was developed, which enable both efficient siRNA delivery and good traceability, without incorporating extra fluorophores. This conjugate can be readily constructed by three click-type reactions, that is, amidations, thiol-dibromomaleimide addition and copper catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC). And it also has comparable siRNA delivery efficiency, with a GalNAc L96 standard to mTTR target. Additionally, due to the internal DTMs, a highly fluorescent emission was observed, which benefited delivery tracking and reduced the cost and side effects of the extra addition of hydrophobic dye molecules. In all, the simple incorporation of DTMs to the GalNAc conjugate structure has potential in gene therapy and tracking applications.
SILAR-Deposited CuO Nanostructured Films Doped with Zinc and Sodium for Improved CO2 Gas Detection
Authors: Saad Rana , Ahmed Ashour M. , Abdelkarem Khaled , Zayed Mohamed , Faidey Zainab M. , Al-Senani Ghadah M. , Shaban Mohamed , Tammam Mohamed T. , Hamdy Hany
Published: October 2023

Gas sensing is of significant importance in a wide range of disciplines, including industrial safety and environmental monitoring. In this work, a low-cost SILAR (Successive Ionic Layer Adsorption and Reaction) technique was employed to fabricate pure CuO, Zn-doped CuO, and Na-doped CuO nanotextured films to efficiently detect CO2 gas. The structures, morphologies, chemical composition, and optical properties of all films are characterized using different tools. All films exhibit a crystalline monoclinic phase (tenorite) structure. The average crystallite size of pure CuO was 83.5 nm, whereas the values for CuO/Zn and CuO/Na were 73.15 nm and 63.08 nm, respectively. Subsequently, the gas-sensing capabilities of these films were evaluated for the detection of CO2 in terms of sensor response, selectivity, recovery time, response time, and limits of detection and quantification. The CuO/Na film offered the most pronounced sensitivity towards CO2 gas, as evidenced by a sensor response of 12.8% at room temperature and a low limit of detection (LoD) of 2.36 SCCM. The response of this sensor increased to 64.5% as the operating temperature increased to 150 °C. This study thus revealed a brand-new CuO/Na nanostructured film as a highly effective and economically viable sensor for the detection of CO2.
Role of Nutritional Supplements in Sport, Exercise and Health
Authors: Alfieri Andreina , D’Angelo Stefania , Mazzeo Filomena
Published: October 2023

Health promotion requires good nutrition and an adequate lifestyle, which together contribute to people’s well-being [...]
Therapeutic Strategies against Leishmania and Trypanosoma
Authors: Santos André L. S. , Rodrigues Igor A. , d’Avila-Levy Claudia M. , Sodré Cátia L. , Ritmeijer Koert , Branquinha Marta H.
Published: October 2023

Human African trypanosomiasis (also known as sleeping sickness, with Trypanosoma brucei gambiense and Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense as etiological agents), American trypanosomiasis (also known as Chagas disease, with Trypanosoma cruzi as the etiological agent), and leishmaniasis (including cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and visceral forms, with multiple species belonging to the Leishmania genus as etiological agents) are recognized as neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) [...]
Enhancing the Functional Properties of Tea Tree Oil: In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity and Microencapsulation Strategy
Authors: Manzanelli Franco Antonio , Ravetti Soledad , Brignone Sofia Gisella , Garro Ariel Gustavo , Martínez Sol Romina , Vallejo Mariana Guadalupe , Palma Santiago Daniel
Published: October 2023

In the context of addressing antimicrobial drug resistance in periocular infections, Tea Tree Oil (TTO) has emerged as a promising therapeutic option. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of TTO against bacterial strains isolated from ocular infections, with a particular focus on its ability to inhibit biofilm formation. Additionally, we designed and analyzed microcapsules containing TTO to overcome certain unfavorable physicochemical properties and enhance its inherent biological attributes. The quality of TTO was confirmed through rigorous analysis using GC-MS and UV-Vis techniques. Our agar diffusion assay demonstrated the effectiveness of Tea Tree Oil (TTO) against ocular bacterial strains, including Corynebacterium spp., coagulase-negative Staphylococcus spp., and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as a reference strain of Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923). Notably, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) for all tested microorganisms were found to be 0.2% and 0.4%, respectively, with the exception of Corynebacterium spp., which exhibited resistance to TTO. Furthermore, TTO exhibited a substantial reduction in biofilm biomass, ranging from 30% to 70%, as determined by the MTT method. Through the spray-drying technique, we successfully prepared two TTO-containing formulations with high encapsulation yields (80–85%), microencapsulation efficiency (90–95%), and embedding rates (approximately 40%). These formulations yielded microcapsules with diameters of 6–12 μm, as determined by laser scattering particle size distribution analysis, and exhibited regular, spherical morphologies under scanning electron microscopy. Importantly, UV-Vis analysis post-encapsulation confirmed the presence of TTO within the capsules, with preserved antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. In summary, our findings underscore the substantial therapeutic potential of TTO and its microcapsules for treating ocular infections.
Stabilization of Graphene Oxide Dispersion in Plasma-like Isotonic Solution Containing Aggregating Concentrations of Bivalent Cations
Authors: Krasoń Marcin Z. , Paradowska Anna , Fronczek Martyna , Lejawa Mateusz , Kamieńska Natalia , Krejca Michał , Kolanowska Anna , Boncel Sławomir , Radomski Marek W.
Published: October 2023

Graphene oxide’s (GO) intravascular applications and biocompatibility are not fully explored yet, although it has been proposed as an anticancer drug transporter, antibacterial factor or component of wearable devices. Bivalent cations and the number of particles’ atom layers, as well as their structural oxygen content and pH of the dispersion, all affect the GO size, shape, dispersibility and biological effects. Bovine serum albumin (BSA), an important blood plasma protein, is expected to improve GO dispersion stability in physiological concentrations of the precipitating calcium and magnesium cations to enable effective and safe tissue perfusion. Methods: Four types of GO commercially available aqueous dispersions (with different particle structures) were diluted, sonicated and studied in the presence of BSA and physiological cation concentrations. Nanoparticle populations sizes, electrical conductivity, zeta potential (Zetasizer NanoZS), structure (TEM and CryoTEM), functional groups content (micro titration) and dispersion pH were analyzed in consecutive preparation stages. Results: BSA effectively prevented the aggregation of GO in precipitating concentrations of physiological bivalent cations. The final polydispersity indexes were reduced from 0.66–0.91 to 0.36–0.43. The GO-containing isotonic dispersions were stable with the following Z-ave results: GO1 421.1 nm, GO2 382.6 nm, GO3 440.2 nm and GO4 490.1 nm. The GO behavior was structure-dependent. Conclusion: BSA effectively stabilized four types of GO dispersions in an isotonic dispersion containing aggregating bivalent physiological cations.
Analysis of Pathogens of Urinary Tract Infections Associated with Indwelling Double-J Stents and Their Susceptibility to Globularia alypum
Authors: Bouassida Khaireddine , Marzouk Manel , Nouir Sahar , Ghammem Rim , Sahtout Wissal , Ghardallou Meriam , Fathallah Neila , Boukadida Jalel , Jaidane Mehdi , Slim Raoudha , Zaïri Amira
Published: October 2023

Ureteral double-J stents are frequently used to prevent urinary obstruction. They can develop bacterial colonization and encrustation, which leads to persistent infections that seldom respond to antibiotic treatment. Thus, the goal of this study was to evaluate the local spectrum of bacterial pathogens and their susceptibility to natural compounds. A total of 59 double-J ureteral stents from 59 consecutive patients were examined. The samples were inoculated on agar culture mediums. Extracts of Globularia alypum L. were evaluated for their antibacterial activity with the diffusion and broth dilution methods; for antibiofilm activity, the crystal violet assay was used. The identification and the quantification of the different constituents of extracts were determined by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). Bacterial growth was found in three patients (5.1%). Enterococcus faecalis (1.7%), Acinetobacter baumanii (1.7%), and Pseudomonas putida (1.7%) strains were more commonly detected. They were resistant to several common antibiotics. All extracts presented several components, mainly nepetin-7-glucoside and trans-ferulic-acid, and they had antibacterial activity (MIC = 6.25 mg/mL and MBC = 6.25 mg/mL), and antibiofilm (59.70% at 25 mg/mL) properties, especially against Acinetobacter baumanii. The results achieved confirm the important role of this plant as a source of therapeutic activities.
Adult Patients with Difficulty Swallowing Oral Dosage Forms: A Systematic Review of the Quantitative Literature
Authors: Harnett Anne , Byrne Stephen , O’Connor Jennifer , Lyons Declan , Sahm Laura J.
Published: October 2023

The aim of this systematic review was to identify and critically appraise the available evidence regarding solid oral dosage forms (SODFs), e.g., tablets, and challenges regarding the oral administration of medicine to inpatients in a variety of healthcare settings such as (1) hospitals, (2) nursing homes and (3) long-term stay units (LTSUs). A literature search was undertaken in September 2021 and repeated in June 2023 in the following databases: PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, PsycINFO and ProQuest. A Microsoft Excel® spreadsheet was devised to collate the following data from each eligible study: study author and year, country, number of participants, title, duration (follow-up period), study design, inclusion and exclusion criteria, method and data collection, relevant outcomes, and key findings. A total of 3023 records were identified, with 12 articles being included in the final systematic review. Seven of the twelve studies reported on the prevalence of difficulties swallowing SODFs, which varied from 10–34.2%. Nine of the twelve studies reported the methods used to manipulate SODFs, with the most reported method being tablet crushing. Given the prevalence of swallowing difficulties and the subsequent crushing of medicines in response to this, it is evident that concerns should be raised regarding the potential for a medication administration error to occur.
Frequency-Shift Monitoring of Optical Filter Based on Optical Labels over FTN-WDM Transmission Systems
Authors: Li Kaixuan , Yang Tao , Wang Xue , Shi Sheping , Wang Liqian , Chen Xue
Published: October 2023

Optical network monitoring and soft failure identification such as optical filter shifting and filter tightening are increasingly significant for the complex and dynamic optical networks of the future. Center frequency shift of optical filtering devices in optical networks has a serious impact on the performance of multi-span transmission, especially in high spectrum efficiency faster-than-Nyquist (FTN) transmission systems with various optical switching and add/drop nodes. Existing monitoring schemes generally have the problems of high cost, high complexity, and inability to realize multi-channel online monitoring, which makes it difficult for them to be applied in a wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) system with numerous nodes. In this paper, a monitoring scheme of frequency shift of optical filtering devices based on optical label (OL) is proposed and demonstrated. The signal spectrum of each channel is intentionally divided into many sub-bands with corresponding optical labels loading. The characteristics of spectrum power changing caused by frequency shift can be reflected on labels power changing of each sub-band, which are used to monitor and estimate the value of frequency shift via DSP algorithm. Simulation results show that the monitoring errors of frequency shift can be kept reasonably below 0.5 GHz after 10-span WDM transmission in FTN polarization multiplexing m-ary quadrature amplitude modulation (PM-mQAM) systems. In addition, 250 km fiber transmission experiments are also carried out, and similar results are obtained, which further verify the feasibility of our proposed scheme. The characteristics of low cost, high reliability, and efficiency make it a better candidate for practical application in future FTN-WDM networks.
Plant Essential Oil with Biological Activity (II)
Authors: Elshafie Hazem S. , Camele Ippolito
Published: October 2023

Essential oils (EOs) are concentrated hydrophobic liquids that originate from plants and contain different bioactive chemicals and volatile substances. Several plant essential oils (PEOs) are obtained from a variety of medicinal plants and have been utilized in folk medicine and traditional pharmacopoeia. They have a long history of usage as antibacterial medicines to treat various human, animal, and plant diseases. The extraction of essential oils frequently involves fractional distillation with a variety of organic solvents. EOs can be used successfully in the food and cosmetics industries in addition to their traditional use as antimicrobial agents. This Special Issue covers various significant PEOs and their individual chemical constituents and biological-pharmaceutical functions. Further information focused on the chemical characterizations, modes of action, and biopharmaceutical properties of PEOs. This Special Issue includes seventeen research papers from different geographical zones.
Identification of Daphnane Diterpenoids from Wikstroemia indica Using Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Mi , Otsuki Kouharu , Takahashi Reo , Kikuchi Takashi , Zhou Di , Li Ning , Li Wei
Published: October 2023

Liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has emerged as a powerful tool for the rapid identification of compounds within natural resources. Daphnane diterpenoids, a class of natural compounds predominantly found in plants belonging to the Thymelaeaceae and Euphorbiaceae families, have attracted much attention due to their remarkable anticancer and anti-HIV activities. In the present study, the presence of daphnane diterpenoids in Wikstroemia indica, a plant belonging to the Thymelaeaceae family, was investigated by LC-MS/MS analysis. As a result, 21 daphnane diterpenoids (1–21) in the stems of W. indica were detected. Among these, six major compounds (12, 15, 17, 18, 20, and 21) were isolated and their structures were unequivocally identified through a comprehensive analysis of the MS and NMR data. For the minor compounds (1–11, 13, 14, 16, and 19), their structures were elucidated by in-depth MS/MS fragmentation analysis. This study represents the first disclosure of structurally diverse daphnane diterpenoids in W. indica, significantly contributing to our understanding of bioactive diterpenoids in plants within the Thymelaeaceae family.
Characterization of PS/PP/HDPE/LDPE Polymer Blend Obtained from Plastic Waste Collected on Beaches in Ilhéus-Bahia, Brazil
Authors: de Jesus Tauane Winny Silva , Pasquini Daniel , Benvenuti Tatiane
Published: October 2023

A large volume of polymeric waste is generated in cities, and some of this reaches the sea and beaches. This waste stays for hundreds of years, damaging marine environments and organisms. To minimize the effects of pollution, collection and recycling allow a return to the production chain. This research aims to produce and evaluate a polymeric mixture obtained via processing plastic waste collected on the beaches of the city of Ilhéus-Bahia. Subsequently, the mixture is converted into a granulated form for application as fine aggregate in the production of cementitious matrices. A polymer blend of polystyrene, polypropylene, and high- and low-density polyethylene was obtained and evaluated by thermal, morphological, and mechanical tests in three processing stages. The degradation temperatures were close for the three processing stages and the level of processing influenced the mechanical strength. As for elastic modulus and deformation, there was no significant difference in using the mixture processed once or twice. The results showed that the reuse of the waste is applicable, the mixture presented a compact, reasonably homogeneous material with different morphology. Therefore, this work finds importance in the possibility of promoting waste recycling and adding value to a material that would become waste, thus showing its potential for application in the construction industry as an addition to cementitious mixtures and leading to savings in inputs.
Competitive Equilibrium Analysis of Power Generation Transaction Subjects Considering Tradable Green Certificates
Authors: Wen Jiaxing , Jia Rong , Gao Xin , Cao Ge , Dang Jian , Li Wei , Li Peihang
Published: October 2023

The implementation of renewable portfolio standards (RPS) and tradable green certificate schemes will exert significant influences on the market equilibrium outcomes and generation firms’ strategic behaviors. To quantitatively investigate these influences, firstly, considering the difference in power generation cost and the uncertainty of renewable energy power generation, the equilibrium model for various trade subjects in the electricity market is established. Secondly, the nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II is adopted for solving the equilibrium model to find well-distributed Pareto-optimal solutions. Finally, the grey relational projection method is used to calculate the priority membership of each decision-making scheme so as to determine the optimal compromise solution. The simulation focuses on analyzing the impact of RPS on the equilibrium results and market behavior of power generators and introduces the Lerner index to quantify the market power of generators. The results show that: (1) An increase in the quota ratio can effectively increase power generation in renewable energy generators. The game between thermal power generators and renewable energy generators raises the prices of both markets at the same time. (2) Improving the forecasting accuracy is conducive to alleviating the market power behavior of various power generators, thereby ensuring the healthy operation of the power market.
Research of Carbon Emission Prediction: An Oscillatory Particle Swarm Optimization for Long Short-Term Memory
Authors: Chen Yiqing , Chen Zongzhu , Li Kang , Shi Tiezhu , Chen Xiaohua , Lei Jinrui , Wu Tingtian , Li Yuanling , Liu Qian , Shi Binghua , Guo Jia
Published: October 2023

Carbon emissions play a significant role in shaping social policy-making, industrial planning, and other critical areas. Recurrent neural networks (RNNs) serve as the major choice for carbon emission prediction. However, year-frequency carbon emission data always results in overfitting during RNN training. To address this issue, we propose a novel model that combines oscillatory particle swarm optimization (OPSO) with long short-term memory (LSTM). OPSO is employed to fine-tune the hyperparameters of LSTM, utilizing an oscillatory strategy to effectively mitigate overfitting and consequently improve the accuracy of the LSTM model. In validation tests, real data from Hainan Province, encompassing diverse dimensions such as gross domestic product, forest area, and ten other relevant factors, are used. Standard LSTM and PSO-LSTM are selected in the control group. The mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) are used to evaluate the performance of these methods. In the test dataset, the MAE of OPSO-LSTM is 117.708, 65.72% better than LSTM and 29.48% better than PSO-LSTM. The RMSE of OPSO-LSTM is 149.939, 68.52% better than LSTM and 41.90% better than PSO-LSTM. The MAPE of OPSO-LSTM is 0.017, 65.31% better than LSTM, 29.17% better than PSO-LSTM. The experimental results prove that OPSO-LSTM can provide reliable predictions for carbon emissions.
Construction of a Novel Oxalic Acid Biosensor Based on the Combination of Tissue Enzyme and Peroxide Mimic Enzyme
Authors: Giwa Abdulmoseen Segun , Maurice Ndungutse Jean , Ali Nasir
Published: October 2023

A biosensor is considered an integrated receptor transducer device, with the ability to convert a biological impulse into an electrical signal. The amendment of biosensors has been recognized for its great potential by many researchers, due to its numerous applications e.g., environmental management, disease diagnosis, agricultural aspects, food companies, health care, drug monitoring, and water treatment as it can be used in the detection of water quality. Moreover, technological development of the biosensor is integrated with several merits such as affordability and enhancement in medical fields in disease detection and body response; furthermore, it is easy to use, effective, and scalable. This article briefly reviews how to construct an oxalic acid (OA) biosensor by integration of tissue enzymes and peroxide simulated enzymes. OA is converted to peroxide (H2O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) with the help of the oxalate oxidase (OxOx) present in spinach leaves as catalyst. Afterwards, with the presence of cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4), nanoparticles (NPs) have a catalytic effect on concentrated H2O2 and chemiluminescence (CL) luminol (C8H7N3O2). Therefore, CL flow can be constructed under a biosensor to determine OA in the sample. The co-presence of tissue column and CoFe2O4, as well as a high level of relative CL intensity can be obtained. The biosensor based on H2O2 and involving inorganic nanomaterials has many advantages such as high efficiency, affordability, outstanding sensitivity, stability and selectivity, a fast response, and an extended range of linearity with a lower detection limit. In addition, optimization factors for the oxalate biosensor, limitations, and outlooks for the biosensor were also highlighted.
Three-Dimensional Reconstruction and Seepage Simulation of Vermiculite Materials Based on CT Technology
Authors: Zhang Lanzhu , Zhang Linzhen , Lu Xin , Guo Luyi
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the 3D reconstruction and seepage simulation of vermiculite-based sealing materials in order to clarify the relationship between material structure and fluid leakage in order to improve their performance and reliability and to provide a foundation for accurate leakage rate calculation under various conditions. CT scanning and 3D reconstruction techniques were used to examine the pore structure and fractal properties of vermiculite-based sealing materials. The seepage mechanism under compression was examined using a porous medium model. The findings demonstrate that the vermiculite-based sealing materials have self-similarity and scale-invariant fractal properties. The porous media model in compression exhibits a low leakage rate, opening up a new avenue for realizing microscopic leakage studies with a leakage rate of 1 × 109 in compression.
Determinants of Cash Distribution Options in South African Listed Firms: An Empirical Analysis of Earnings, Company Size, and Economic Value Added
Authors: Munzhelele Ntungufhadzeni Freddy , Obadire Ayodeji Michael
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the determinants of cash distribution options by critically considering the effects of earnings, dividends, firm size, and economic value added. The distribution of cash dividends to shareholders serves as a basic means by which shareholders receive returns on their investments, so it is essential to examine share repurchases alongside dividends to enhance management’s efforts in maximising shareholder value. This study utilised panel data from 52 companies listed on the Johannesburg Security Exchange (JSE) that engaged in open market share repurchases for at least 2 years between 2000 and 2019. The data were extracted from the IRESS database. The panel data regression model was fitted with the ordinary least squares (OLS), difference generalised moment method (Diff-GMM), system generalised moment method (Sys-GMM), and least-squares dummy variable correction estimator (LSDVC). The findings revealed that there was a positive and significant relationship between the earnings per share and the payoff flexibility, implying that there was an inherent flexibility of repurchases as a payout option in the sampled firms. Additionally, the study revealed a significant negative relationship between the firm size, economic value added, and payoff flexibility. This suggests that larger companies tend to distribute a lower proportion of their earnings as share repurchases and opt for higher cash dividends instead. The implications of these findings provide financial managers with valuable insights into the role of share repurchases as a cash distribution choice. By recognising share repurchases as a viable option, financial managers can enhance their efforts to create and maximise shareholder value, particularly in emerging market settings. This evidence should encourage financial managers to recognise share repurchases more as a distribution choice, diffusing the tension regarding share repurchases replacing the payment of cash dividends and some doubt that they may not possess attributes complimentary to cash dividends. The study recommended relevant academic, industry, and policy implications in the South African context.
An Analysis of Volatility and Risk-Adjusted Returns of ESG Indices in Developed and Emerging Economies
Authors: Gupta Hemendra , Chaudhary Rashmi
Published: October 2023

The importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) aspects in investment decisions has grown significantly in today’s volatile financial market. This study aims to answer the important question of whether investing in ESG-compliant companies is a better option for investors in both developed and emerging markets. This study assesses ESG investment performance in diverse regions, focusing on developed markets with high GDP, specifically the USA, Germany, and Japan, alongside emerging nations, India, Brazil, and China. We compare ESG indices against respective broad market indices, all comprising large and mid-cap stocks. This study employs a variety of risk-adjusted criteria to systematically compare the performance of ESG indices against broad market indices. The evaluation also delves into downside volatility, a crucial factor for portfolio growth. It also explores how news events impact ESG and market indices in developed and emerging economies using the EGARCH model. The findings show that, daily, there is no significant difference in returns between ESG and conventional indices. However, when assessing one-year rolling returns, ESG indices outperform the overall market indices in all countries except Brazil, exhibiting positive alpha and offering better risk-adjusted returns. ESG portfolios also provide more downside risk protection, with higher upside beta than downside beta in most countries (except the USA and India). Furthermore, negative news has a milder impact on the volatility of ESG indices in all of the studied countries except for Germany. This suggests that designing a portfolio based on ESG-compliant companies could be a prudent choice for investors, as it yields relatively better risk-adjusted returns compared to the respective market indices. Furthermore, there is insufficient evidence to definitively establish that the performance of ESG indices varies significantly between developed and emerging markets.