bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancing Field-Based Vertical Jump Analysis: Markerless Pose Estimation vs. Force Plates
Authors: Aleksic Jelena , Mesaroš David , Kanevsky Dmitry , Knežević Olivera M. , Cabarkapa Dimitrije , Faj Lucija , Mirkov Dragan M.
Published: December 2024

The countermovement vertical jump (CMJ) is widely used in sports science and rehabilitation to assess lower body power. In controlled laboratory environments, a complex analysis of CMJ performance is usually carried out using motion capture or force plate systems, providing detailed insights into athlete’s movement mechanics. While these systems are highly accurate, they are often costly or limited to laboratory settings, making them impractical for widespread or field use. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of MMPose, a markerless 2D pose estimation framework, for CMJ analysis by comparing it with force plates. Twelve healthy participants performed five CMJs, with each jump trial simultaneously recorded using force plates and a smartphone camera. Vertical velocity profiles and key temporal variables, including jump phase durations, maximum jump height, vertical velocity, and take-off velocity, were analyzed and compared between the two systems. The statistical methods included a Bland–Altman analysis, correlation coefficients (r), and effect sizes, with consistency and systematic differences assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and paired samples t-tests. The results showed strong agreement (r = 0.992) between the markerless system and force plates, validating MMPose for CMJ analysis. The temporal variables also demonstrated high reliability (ICC > 0.9), with minimal systematic differences and negligible effect sizes for most variables. These findings suggest that the MMPose-based markerless system is a cost-effective and practical alternative for analyzing CMJ performance, particularly in field settings where force plates may be less accessible. This system holds potential for broader applications in sports performance and rehabilitation, enabling more scalable, data-driven movement assessments.
Bilateral Fuchs’ Superficial Marginal Keratitis Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Harada Shiori , Mohamed Yasser Helmy , Kusano Mao , Inoue Daisuke , Uematsu Masafumi
Published: December 2024

In this study, we reported two patients with clinical pictures compatible with the diagnosis of bilateral Fuchs’ superficial marginal keratitis (FSMK) treated with surgical treatment and anti-inflammatory drugs. The cases suffered from bilateral photophopia, blurred vision, and pseudopterygium with normal intraocular pressure (IOP). Pseudopterygia extended from temporal and nasal sides and had a gray line between the corneal normal epithelium with no lipid deposits. The first case had a bilateral high mixed astigmatic error and the second had dry eye symptoms. No abnormalities, including systemic inflammatory disease, were found in the laboratory investigations. The first case had bilateral pseudopterygium excision, mitomycin C (MMC) application, and pedicled conjunctival flap transplantation. The patient was followed regularly, and her condition was stable without any recurrence or deterioration in the ocular findings. The second case had conjunctival resection + amniotic membrane transplantation + MMC application six times on the right eye and three times on the left eye during 4 years and suffered recurrences after each operation. Her visual acuity severely decreased with the elevated IOP of both eyes. The patient refused to do any further surgical intervention. Despite its rarity, FSMK should be considered when peripheral corneal infiltration, corneal thinning, and pseudopterygia are observed in both eyes.
Pharmacological Advancements of PRC2 in Cancer Therapy: A Narrative Review
Authors: Wang Michael S. , Sussman Jonathan , Xu Jessica A. , Patel Reema , Elghawy Omar , Rawla Prashanth
Published: December 2024

Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) is known to regulate gene expression and chromatin structure as it methylates H3K27, resulting in gene silencing. Studies have shown that PRC2 has dual functions in oncogenesis that allow it to function as both an oncogene and a tumor suppressor. Because of this, nuanced strategies are necessary to promote or inhibit PRC2 activity therapeutically. Given the therapeutic vulnerabilities and associated risks in oncological applications, a structured literature review on PRC2 was conducted to showcase similar cofactor competitor inhibitors of PRC2. Key inhibitors such as Tazemetostat, GSK126, Valemetostat, and UNC1999 have shown promise for clinical use within various studies. Tazemetostat and GSK126 are both highly selective for wild-type and lymphoma-associated EZH2 mutants. Valemetostat and UNC1999 have shown promise as orally bioavailable and SAM-competitive inhibitors of both EZH1 and EZH2, giving them greater efficacy against potential drug resistance. The development of other PRC2 inhibitors, particularly inhibitors targeting the EED or SUZ12 subunit, is also being explored with the development of drugs like EED 226. This review aims to bridge gaps in the current literature and provide a unified perspective on promising PRC2 inhibitors as therapeutic agents in the treatment of lymphomas and solid tumors.
Effect of Temperature Gradient and Cooling Rate on the Solidification of Iron: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Qin Qin , Li Weizhuang , Wang Wenrui , Li Dongyue , Xie Lu
Published: December 2024

In this study, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were employed to compare the effects of different solidification conditions on the solidification behaviour, stress distribution, and degree of crystallization of iron. The results indicate significant differences in nucleation and microstructural evolution between the two solidification methods. In the homogeneous temperature field, the solidification of iron is characterized by instantaneous nucleation. The BCC phase surged at 1431 K followed by the phenomenon of latent heat of crystallization. As the temperature continued to decrease, the percentage of the BCC phase continued to increase steadily. Eventually, the atoms aggregated to form a crystal nucleus and grow outward to form polycrystalline structures. During gradient solidification, continuous nucleation of iron leads to a slow increase in the BCC phase. From the initial stage of solidification, the solid–liquid interface moves in the direction of higher temperature and is accompanied by a higher stress distribution. Furthermore, increasing the temperature gradient, particularly the cooling rate, accelerates the transformation efficiency of iron in the gradient solidification process. In addition, increasing the cooling rate or temperature gradient reduces the residual stress and crystallinity of the solidified microstructure. It is worth noting that an increased temperature gradient or cooling rate will produce higher residual stress and uneven microstructure in the boundary region. This study provides an atomic-level understanding of the improvement in the solidification performance of iron.
The Investigation of Graphene Oxide-Enhanced Hybrid Slurry Preparation and Its Polishing Characteristic on CVD Single Crystal Diamond
Authors: Wang Zixuan , Zhao Yang , Yao Jie , Yu Tianbiao , Qu Sheng , Zhao Jun
Published: December 2024

As an environment-friendly material, graphene oxide nanosheet can effectively improve the polishing surface quality of single crystal diamond workpieces. However, the lubricating and chemical effects of graphene oxide nanosheets have an uncertain impact on the polishing material removal rate. In this paper, the graphene oxide-enhanced hybrid slurry was prepared with good stability. The femtosecond laser etching and contour measurement method was adopted to analyze the polishing material removal rate of the CVD single crystal diamond workpiece. The surface damage of the workpiece polished with SiC abrasive grains is minimal, while the workpiece with diamond abrasive grains has the largest material removal rate. With an increase in abrasive grain size, the polishing material removal rate increases, but new surface scratches and pits can be introduced if the grain size is too large. Therefore, a grain size of 2.5 μm was selected to improve the surface quality. The surface roughness first decreases and then increases with the increase in polishing rotation speed. At a speed of 4000 rpm, the surface roughness reached its minimum with a relatively high material removal rate simultaneously. A series of CVD single crystal diamond scratching experiments were conducted with different scratching speeds, which proved that graphene oxide can help facilitate material surface micro-protrusion removal.
Prediction of Drivers’ Red-Light Running Behaviour in Connected Vehicle Environments Using Deep Recurrent Neural Networks
Authors: Komol Md Mostafizur Rahman , Elhenawy Mohammed , Pinnow Jack , Masoud Mahmoud , Rakotonirainy Andry , Glaser Sebastien , Wood Merle , Alderson David
Published: December 2024

Red-light running at signalised intersections poses a significant safety risk, necessitating advanced predictive technologies to predict red-light violation behaviour, especially for advanced red-light warning (ARLW) systems. This research leverages Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) models to forecast the red-light running and stopping behaviours of drivers in connected vehicles. We utilised data from the Ipswich Connected Vehicle Pilot (ICVP) in Queensland, Australia, which gathered naturalistic driving data from 355 connected vehicles at 29 signalised intersections. These vehicles broadcast Cooperative Awareness Messages (CAM) within the Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS), providing kinematic inputs such as vehicle speed, speed limits, longitudinal and lateral accelerations, and yaw rate. These variables were monitored at 100-millisecond intervals for durations from 1 to 4 s before reaching various distances from the stop line. Our results indicate that the LSTM model outperforms the GRU in predicting both red-light running and stopping behaviours with high accuracy. However, the pre-trained GRU model performs better in predicting red-light running specifically, making it valuable in applications requiring early violation prediction. Implementing these models can enhance red-light violation countermeasures, such as dynamic all-red extension (DARE), decreasing the likelihood of severe collisions and enhancing road users’ safety.
Analysis of a Weak Galerkin Mixed Formulation for Modified Maxwell’s Equations
Authors: Zaghdani Abdelhamid , Hasnaoui Abdelhalim
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we are interested in studying a mixed formulation of weak Galerkin type to approach the electric field and a Lagrange multiplier, which are solutions of a problem deriving from Maxwell’s equations. Our numerical scheme is formed with stable finite elements constructed of usual polynomials of degree k for the electric field and of degree k+1 for the Lagrange multiplier; its consistency and well-posedness are shown. Some optimal error estimates are proven and tested numerically in a bounded subdomain of R2.
The First Zagreb Index and Some Hamiltonian Properties of Graphs
Authors: Li Rao
Published: December 2024

Let G=(V,E) be a graph. The first Zagreb index of a graph G is defined as ∑u∈VdG2(u), where dG(u) is the degree of vertex u in G. A graph G is called Hamiltonian (resp. traceable) if G has a cycle (resp. path) containing all the vertices of G. Using two established inequalities, in this paper, we present sufficient conditions involving the first Zagreb index for Hamiltonian graphs and traceable graphs. We also present upper bounds for the first Zagreb index of a graph and characterize the graphs achieving the upper bounds.
An Overview of Underwater Optical Wireless Communication Channel Simulations with a Focus on the Monte Carlo Method
Authors: Ramley Intesar , Alzayed Hamdah M. , Al-Hadeethi Yas , Chen Mingguang , Barasheed Abeer Z.
Published: December 2024

Building a reliable and optimum underwater optical wireless communication (UOWC) system requires identifying all potential factors that cause the attenuation and dispersion of the optical signal. The radiative transfer equation (RTE) solution can be utilised to conclude these essential design parameters to build an optimum UOWC system. RTE has various numerical and simplified analytical solutions with varying reliability and capability scope. Many scientists consider the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) method to be a consistent and widely accepted approach to formulating an RTE solution, which models the propagation of photons through various underwater channel environments. MCS recently attracted attention because we can build a reliable model for underwater environments. Based on such a model, this report demonstrates the resulting received optical power distribution as an output for an array of emulation inputs, including transmitted light’s spatial and temporal distribution, channel link regimes, and associated impairments. This study includes a survey component, which presents the required framework’s foundation to establish a valid RTE model, which leads to solutions with different scopes and depths that can be drawn for practical UOWC use cases. Hence, this work shows how underlying modelling elements can influence a solution technique, including inherent optical properties (IOPs), apparent optical properties (AOPs), and the potential limitations of various photon scattering function formats. The work introduces a novel derivation of mathematical equations for single- and multiple-light-pulse propagation in homogeneous and inhomogeneous channels, forming the basis for MCS-based UOWC studies. The reliability of MCS implementation is assessed using compliance with the Central Limit Theorem (CLT) and leveraging the Henyey–Greenstein phase function with full-scale random selection. As part of the tutorial component in this work, the MCS inner working is manifested using an object-oriented design method. Therefore, this work targets researchers interested in using MCS for UOWC research in general and UOWC photon propagation in seawater channel modelling in general.
Comparison of Sutureless and Sutured Aortic Valve Replacements in Patients with Redo Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Baran Cagdas , Kayan Ahmet , Baran Canan Soykan , Karacuha Ali Fuat , Eryilmaz Sadik
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: This study aims to assess the postoperative outcomes and complications of sutureless and sutured aortic valve replacement in patients with infective endocarditis. Materials and Methods: A total of 58 patients who underwent redo aortic valve replacement for bacterial or non-bacterial endocarditis between January 2018 and March 2023 were included in our study. Surgical procedures were performed through a full median sternotomy due to redo cases and to provide optimal access. Demographic characteristics, operative times, postoperative complications and some echocardiographic data were compared. All cases were meticulously evaluated preoperatively by a cardiac team to select the best treatment option. Results: The mean ICU length of stay was significantly shorter in the sutureless valve group at 5.4 ± 3.9 days compared to 7.9 ± 4.1 days in the sutured valve group (p = 0.029). However, the sutureless group had a mean operation time of 164.7 ± 37.3 min, while the sutured group had a mean operation time of 197.7 ± 45.6 min (p = 0.044). Again, the difference in cardiopulmonary bypass times between the two groups was statistically significant (p = 0.039). And again, four (14.2%) patients in the sutureless group underwent reoperation due to bleeding, while eight (26.6%) patients in the sutured group underwent postoperative bleeding control (p = 0.048). Conclusions: Our study suggests that sutureless aortic valve replacement may offer advantages in terms of operative efficiency and postoperative recovery compared to conventional sutured valves, with some significant differences in terms of some complications.
The Prognostic Significance of QTc Prolongation in Lead aVR in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome with ST Elevation or Depression
Authors: Coskun Abuzer , Demirci Burak , Alkan Mehmet Oktay , Gundogan Selman , Eren Sevki Hakan
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: In patients with acute coronary syndrome, electrocardiographic parameters, including ST elevation in lead aVR (aVR-STE), ST depression (aVR-STD), and QTc prolongation, are crucial. This study aims to show the predictive value of a longer QTc in emergency department patients with acute coronary syndrome and ≥1 mm ST elevation or depression in the aVR lead in electrocardiography. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 1273 patients admitted to the emergency department with a preliminary diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome between 2020 and 2023. ST depression, ST elevation, and QTc were documented in the electrocardiography of the patients. Furthermore, acute coronary syndrome subtypes were identified. Basic demographic characteristics, complications, concomitant diseases, and 30-day and 180-day mortality data were collected. Results: The mean age of 1273 patients included in the study was 63.23 (10.06) years and 548 (43%) were female (p = 0.030). In the aVR-STE group, the QTc was 483.31 (33.96) ms in STEMI, 474.98 (26.21) ms in NSTEMI, and 505.60 (9.76) ms in those with mortality (p < 0.001). In the aVR-STD group, the QTc was 465.10 (42.63) ms in STEMI, 457.52 (39.52) ms in NSTEMI, and 508.73 (4.71) ms in those with mortality (p < 0.001). The total 30-day mortality was 129 (10.1%) and 180-day mortality was 181 (14.2%) (p < 0.001). In the uni-multivariable regression analysis performed for both change in aVR derivation and mortality, it was determined that prolonging QTc could be a predictive value for acute coronary syndrome (p < 0.001). We found sensitivity at 99.7% and specificity at 99.2% in predicting mortality in patients with prolonged QTc (AUC: 0.983, 95% CI: 0.974–0.993, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In patients with acute coronary syndrome, a prolonged QTc is an independent predictor of short- and long-term mortality in alterations in aVR derivation.
Evaluation of Pedicle Screw Position on Computerized Tomography Using Three-Dimensional Reconstruction Software
Authors: Park Jiwon , Yeom Jin S. , Kim Yeonho , Hwang Yoonjoong , Kim Namkug , Park Sang-Min
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: Recent advances in intraoperative navigation systems have improved the accuracy of pedicle screw placement in spine surgery. However, many hospitals have limited access to these advanced technologies due to resource constraints. In such settings, postoperative computed tomography (CT) evaluation remains crucial for assessing screw placement and related potential complications. Metal artifacts in CT scans often compromise the diagnostic accuracy. This study aimed to develop and validate three-dimensional (3-D) reconstruction software to enhance screw localization accuracy and facilitate its practical clinical application. Materials and Methods: This study included two phases: 3-D software development utilizing specific threshold values of Hounsfield units for titanium screws followed by internal validation. For validation, fifty pedicle screws were inserted into porcine lumbar vertebrae with random violation (superior, inferior, medial, or lateral). Three fellowship-trained surgeons evaluated screw positions using both conventional CT bone window settings and the developed software. Additional clinical validation involving 386 pedicle screws from cervical to lumbar spine was performed by two surgeons. Results: The software demonstrated significantly higher specificity (83% vs. 63%) and positive predictive value (96% vs. 91%) compared to conventional CT bone window settings, while maintaining 100% sensitivity and negative predictive value. Interobserver reliability was excellent for both methods (0.961 for bone window vs. 0.990 for software). In clinical validation, the software showed superior intraobserver (0.83 vs. 0.74) and interobserver reliability (0.855 vs. 0.513) compared to picture archiving and communication system (PACS) workstation evaluation. Conclusions: The developed software provides improved accuracy and reliability in pedicle screw position evaluation through distinct screw outline visualization and metal artifact reduction. Its equipment-independent nature and cost-effectiveness make it particularly valuable for clinical implementation.
Effects of Cerium Oxide on Kidney and Liver Tissue Damage in an Experimental Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Model of Distant Organ Damage
Authors: Güneş Işın , Dursun Ali Doğan , Özdemir Çağrı , Küçük Ayşegül , Sezen Şaban Cem , Arslan Mustafa , Özer Abdullah
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is a process in which impaired perfusion is restored by restoring blood flow and tissue recirculation. Nanomedicine uses cutting-edge technologies that emerge from interdisciplinary influences. In the literature, there are very few in vivo and in vitro studies on how cerium oxide (CeO2) affects systemic anti-inflammatory response and inflammation. Therefore, in our study, we aimed to investigate whether CeO2 administration has a protective effect against myocardial I/R injury in the liver and kidneys. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four rats were randomly divided into four groups after obtaining approval from an ethics committee. A control (group C), cerium oxide (group CO), IR (group IR), and Cerium oxide-IR (CO-IR group) groups were formed. Intraperitoneal CeO2 was administered at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg 30 min before left thoracotomy and left main coronary (LAD) ligation, and myocardial muscle ischemia was induced for 30 min. After LAD ligation was removed, reperfusion was performed for 120 min. All rats were euthanized using ketamine, and blood was collected. Liver and kidney tissue samples were evaluated histopathologically. Serum AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALT (alanine aminotransaminase), GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase), glucose, TOS (Total Oxidant Status), and TAS (Total Antioxidant Status) levels were also measured. Results: Necrotic cell and mononuclear cell infiltration in the liver parenchyma of rats in the IR group was observed to be significantly increased compared to the other groups. Hepatocyte degeneration was greater in the IR group compared to groups C and CO. Vascular vacuolization and hypertrophy, tubular degeneration, and necrosis were increased in the kidney tissue of the IR group compared to the other groups. Tubular dilatation was significantly higher in the IR group than in the C and CO groups. TOS was significantly higher in all groups than in the IR group (p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, and p = 0.006, respectively). However, TAS level was lower in the IR group than in the other groups (p = 0.002, p = 0.020, and p = 0.031, respectively). Renal and liver histopathological findings decreased significantly in the CO-IR group compared to the IR group. A decrease in the TOS level and an increase in the TAS level were found compared to the IR group. The AST, ALT, GGT, and Glucose levels are shown. Conclusions: CeO2 administered before ischemia-reperfusion reduced oxidative stress and ameliorated IR-induced damage in distant organs. We suggest that CeO2 exerts protective effects in the myocardial IR model.
The Effect of Physical Activity on Combined Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury Exposure
Authors: Marfo Akua , Obeng-Gyasi Emmanuel
Published: December 2024

Background/Objective: Environmental exposures, such as heavy metals, can significantly affect physical activity, an important determinant of health. This study explores the effect of physical activity on combined exposure to cadmium, lead, and mercury (metals), using data from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Methods: Physical activity was measured with ActiGraph GT3X+ devices worn continuously for 7 days, while blood samples were analyzed for metal content using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression were used to assess the impact of multi-metal exposure on physical activity. Additionally, Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) was applied to explore nonlinear and interactive effects of metal exposures on physical activity. Using a Gaussian process with a radial basis function kernel, BKMR estimates posterior distributions via Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling, allowing for robust evaluation of individual and combined exposure-response relationships. Posterior Inclusion Probabilities (PIPs) were calculated to quantify the relative importance of each metal. Results: The linear regression analysis revealed positive associations between cadmium and lead exposure and physical activity. BKMR analysis, particularly the PIP, identified lead as the most influential metal in predicting physical activity, followed by cadmium and mercury. These PIP values provide a probabilistic measure of each metal’s importance, offering deeper insights into their relative contributions to the overall exposure effect. The study also uncovered complex relationships between metal exposures and physical activity. In univariate BKMR exposure-response analysis, lead and cadmium generally showed positive associations with physical activity, while mercury exhibited a slightly negative relationship. Bivariate exposure-response analysis further illustrated how the impact of one metal could be influenced by the presence and levels of another, confirming the trends observed in univariate analyses while also demonstrating the complexity varying doses of two metals can have on either increased or decreased physical activity. Additionally, the overall exposure effect analysis across different quantiles revealed that higher levels of combined metal exposures were associated with increased physical activity, though there was greater uncertainty at higher exposure levels as the 95% credible intervals were wider. Conclusions: Overall, this study fills a critical gap by investigating the interactive and combined effects of multiple metals on physical activity. The findings underscore the necessity of using advanced methods such as BKMR to capture the complex dynamics of environmental exposures and their impact on human behavior and health outcomes.
Cationic/Anionic Poly(p-Phenylene Oxide) Membranes: Preparation and Electrodialysis Performance for Nickel Recovery from Industrial Effluents
Authors: Wilbert Fabrício , Corte Joana Farias , do Nascimento Felipe Tiago , Jahno Vanusca Dalosto , Rodrigues Marco Antônio Siqueira , Celso Fabrício , da Silva Salatiel W. , Bernardes Andrea Moura
Published: December 2024

Electrodialysis (ED) has already been applied to recover nickel in galvanizing processes, allowing nickel recovery and the production of a treated effluent with demineralized water quality. However, the growth in ED use is still limited by the production and commercialization of ion-selective membranes, currently limited to a few large companies. Therefore, this paper presents the development of homogeneous cationic and anionic membranes made from poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide) (PPO) for ED use. Cationic membranes were prepared by the sulfonation reaction of PPO under different experimental conditions (PPO:H2SO4 molar ratio and reaction time). Anionic membranes were prepared by the bromination reaction of PPO, followed by the amination reaction. The membranes were characterized for their chemical and electrochemical properties, including ion exchange capacity, conductivity, thermal stability, and surface morphology. The optimal conditions for cationic membrane sulfonation were achieved with a 1:4.4 PPO:H2SO4 molar ratio, and a reaction time of 0.5 h. For anionic membranes, the best results were obtained with bromination, with a PPO:NBS (N-Bromosuccinimide) molar ratio of 1:0.5, followed by 14 days of amination. Overall, 91.8% chloride, 90.9% sulfate, and 85.5% nickel ion extraction was achieved, highlighting PPO as a promising polymer for the development of anionic and cationic ion-selective membranes for ED.
Study of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties by Torsional Behavior in Axial Closed Die Rolling Forming
Authors: Nan Jungang , Liu Dong , Rao Haodong , Zhang Yu , Wu Jun , Wang Jianguo
Published: December 2024

The impact of the torsional component on the microstructure and mechanical characteristics of a titanium alloy is examined in this work using a combination of numerical simulation and experimental validation. During the axial closed die rolling (ACDR) forming, the combined effects of compressive and torsional deformation cause a significant increase in the specimen’s cumulative strain. The specimen’s shear strain changes most significantly at the height of H/2. The α-phase has a greater propensity to slip on the conical surface, followed by the cylindrical surface, according to SEM and EBSD analyses. The basal surface has the highest resistance to slip. The formation of a fine isometric α-phase occurs when the compressive component causes the α-phase to become more prone to breakage and fracture. A larger α-phase will form because of the torsional component’s influence, which increases the likelihood that the α-phase will slip and exhibit bending and twisting. With a difference in strength of less than 1 percent and a difference in plasticity between the tangential and radial directions of less than 5 percent, the mechanical properties of the TC11 disks formed by the ACDR show a greater degree of isotropy. The specimens show a tough fracture mode, with radial performance outperforming tangential performance, according to fracture morphology analysis.
Reflectivity Thresholds and Optical Loss Predictions in Resonant Photonic Cavities
Authors: Ferreira Paulo Henrique Dias , Amaral Douglas Ramos do , Tribuzi Vinicius , Marroquin John Fredy Ricardo , Felix Jorlandio Francisco , Ghiglieno Filippo
Published: December 2024

Minimizing optical losses in resonant cavities is crucial for improving photonic device performance. This study focuses on the development of a simulation tool to analyze scattering losses in Fabry–Pérot interferometers (FPIs), offering precise modeling of waveguide dynamics and contributing to accurate loss predictions across various platforms. Optical cavities often suffer from scattering losses due to surface roughness and material defects. Our approach integrates theoretical models and simulations to quantify these losses, utilizing the FPI as a model system. We identified upper and lower reflectivity thresholds, beyond which accurate measurement of losses becomes unreliable. For reflectivity below a certain threshold, measurement errors arise, while excessively high reflectivity can reduce fringe visibility and introduce detector sensitivity issues. Simulations were used to validate the model’s ability to predict reflectivity and attenuation in waveguides with varying loss levels. The software’s flexibility to adjust transmission parameters for different cavity configurations enhances its utility for a broad range of photonic systems. Our study offers a novel methodology for optical loss analysis, with practical applications in optimizing photonic devices. By providing a reliable tool for precise loss measurement, this work supports advancements in optical technologies, enabling the design of more efficient, high-performance devices across various applications.
Copper and Antimicrobial Residues in the Liver and Kidney—Antimicrobial Resistance and Cu Tolerance Unrelated in Escherichia coli from Piglets’ Faeces
Authors: Donato Maria Manuel , Cardoso Olga , Assis Gabriela , Henriques Sara Carolina , Freitas Andreia , Ramos Fernando
Published: December 2024

Antimicrobials, widely used in livestock, have induced the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, prompting farmers to explore alternatives like copper. This study aims to determine antimicrobial residues and Cu concentrations in the liver and kidney of piglets and to investigate the correlation between Cu and antimicrobial use and the resistance to Cu and antimicrobials of Escherichia coli isolated from piglets’ faeces. Antimicrobial residues were quantified by UHPLC-ToF-MS; Cu was quantified using FAAS; microbiological methods were used for E. coli isolation, CuSO4 minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), and antimicrobial susceptibility; and to detect genes, Real-Time PCR was used. Cu concentrations and antimicrobial residues in piglet livers and kidneys revealed no significant differences. Antimicrobial residues were detected in a significant number of livers and kidneys. While Cu concentrations in the liver were within adequate ranges, those in the kidney exceeded the recommended levels. E. coli isolates from piglet faeces exhibited high antimicrobial drug resistance (AMR), with no clear link to Cu exposure. The genes copA, pcoA, and pcoD, associated with Cu tolerance, were predominantly found in isolates with a CuSO4 MIC of 8 mM. Cu was not used excessively, suggesting that Cu did not replace antimicrobials. E. coli was mostly resistant to antimicrobials and it was not possible to demonstrate that Cu was the trigger for this resistance. There was no relationship between Cu tolerance and AMR in E. coli isolates. This study highlights the need for further research on the complex interplay between metals, antimicrobials, and bacterial resistance in livestock, impacting ‘One Health’.
(Micro)Plastic Foreign Bodies in Food and Feed: Notifications in the European Union
Authors: Prata Joana C.
Published: December 2024

Plastic particles, including microplastics, are increasingly common contaminants of the food chain, raising concerns over human health effects. The objective of this work was to contribute to a better understanding of their presence in food and feed based on notifications of plastic foreign bodies in the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) of the European Union. Visible plastics accounted for 25 notifications per year from 2020 to 2023 (four years), becoming the third most common foreign body after glass and metal. Contamination is likely to originate during processing and packaging. Even though these results confirm the presence of plastics in the European food chain, notifications provide limited information and only visible particles may be reported. Regulations must establish active monitoring and limits for plastic particles in foods and feeds (e.g., in an amendment to Commission Regulation (EC) no. 1881/2006), including for smaller particle sizes (i.e., microplastics). However, the establishment of regulations is limited by knowledge gaps in analytical methods, foodstuff contamination, and toxicity. Research studies should prioritize knowledge gaps needed to support regulatory action and, ultimately, human health protection.
The Multifunctional Catalytic Hemoglobin from Amphitrite ornata: Protocols on Isolation, Taxonomic Identification, Protein Extraction, Purification, and Characterization
Authors: Husted Anna L. , Sutton Victoria R. , Presnar Lauren A. , Blackburn R. Kevin , Staton Joseph L. , Borgianini Stephen A. , D’Antonio Edward L.
Published: December 2024

The multifunctional catalytic hemoglobin from the terebellid polychaete Amphitrite ornata, also named dehaloperoxidase (AoDHP), utilizes the typical oxygen transport function in addition to four observed activities involved in substrate oxidation. The multifunctional ability of AoDHP is presently a rare observation, and there exists a limitation for how novel dehaloperoxidases can be identified from macrobenthic infauna. In order to discover more infaunal DHP-bearing candidates, we have devised a facilitated method for an accurate taxonomic identification that places visual and molecular taxonomic approaches in parallel. Traditional visual taxonomic species identification by the non-specialist, at least for A. ornata or even for other marine worms, is a very difficult and time-consuming task since a large diversity is present and the method is restricted to adult worm specimens. The work herein aimed to describe a method that simplifies the taxonomic identification of A. ornata in particular through the assessment of its mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene by employing the DNA barcoding technique. Furthermore, whole-worm specimens of A. ornata were used to extract and purify AoDHP followed by an H2O2-dependent peroxidase activity assay evaluation against substrate 2,4,6-trichlorophenol. AoDHP isoenzyme A was also overexpressed as the recombinant protein in Escherichia coli, and its peroxidase activity parameters were compared to AoDHP from the natural source. The activity assay assessment indicated a tight correlation for all Michaelis–Menten parameters evaluated. We conclude that the method described herein exhibits a streamlined approach to identify the polychaete A. ornata, which can be adopted by the non-specialist, and the full procedure is predicted to facilitate the discovery of novel dehaloperoxidases from other marine invertebrates.
Nonpharmacological Interventions in the Management of Xerostomia: A Review on Topical Treatments, Alternative Medicine, and Innovative Therapies
Authors: Sardellitti Luigi , Filigheddu Enrica , Serralutzu Francesca , Bortone Antonella , Bandiera Egle , Milia Egle
Published: December 2024

Background: Despite incidence rates and complications, the clinical management of xerostomia lacks guidelines. Aim: The aim of this overview is to summarize the clinical experience over the past 10 years of treating xerostomia using non-pharmacological interventions. Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases, covering publications from 1 January 2013 to 30 January 2023. Results: Topical therapies are the mainstays in cases of longstanding oral dryness. Their aim is to relieve oral discomfort by retaining mouth moisture. Macro-molecular lubricants were largely used in xerostomia due to radiotherapy for Head and Neck cancer (HNC) and xerostomia due to the chronic use of drugs. However, none of them provided stable relief for dry mouth. Traditional Medicine (TM), through the administration of different medicinal herbs and plants, has recently been evaluated against xerostomia in clinical trials. Matricaria chamomilla L., Linum usitatissimum, and Malva sylvestris L. together with Althea digitata Boiss, Licorice root, and Salvia Officinalis are among the most used compounds. They were formulated as water extracts with health benefits that are attributed to the presence of polyphenols. However, the low number of clinical evaluations represents the greatest limitation for validating the efficacy of TM against xerostomia. Regarding acupuncture, it did not show significant effects in the trials in comparison to the control groups. Further, electrostimulation, photo-biomodulation and hyperbaric therapy need more randomized clinical evaluations to effectively demonstrate their ability to relieve dry mouth. Conclusions: No topical treatment has shown stable relief of xerostomia. Consequently, the management of xerostomia and its devastating complications remain a significant void in daily clinical practice.
Nurturing Futures: The Role of Veterinary Nurses in Promoting the Healthy Development of Puppies and Kittens
Authors: Hookey Tabitha , Morrow Brianne , Woods Georgiana R. T. , Péron Franck , Flanagan John , Gaillard Virginie
Published: December 2024

The health of adult dogs and cats is affected positively or negatively by their development in utero and throughout postnatal growth. Preventive veterinary care is particularly important when animals are physiologically immature and sensitive to modifiable environmental factors. Veterinary nurses/technicians are often at the forefront of promoting healthy development, reinforcing the work of veterinarians and using their knowledge, experience, and passion to lead initiatives with breeders and pet guardians. This opinion article considers the role of qualified veterinary nurses/technicians in the care of puppies and kittens throughout their developmental life stages—gestation, the suckling period, growth post-weaning to puberty or neutering, and late growth to adulthood. Much of their influence is through the education of pet carers; they provide trustworthy information relevant to the individual pet and focused on the practicalities of best husbandry practices. These include practical advice on recognizing dystocia, neonatal care, weaning, introduction to the new home, the prevention and management of infectious diseases, socialization with conspecifics and humans, habituation to potential environmental stresses, nutrition, oral hygiene, and grooming. The veterinary nurse’s goal is not only to see young pets develop into healthy, well-adjusted adults but also to see pet guardians developing sustainable human–animal bonds.
Conversion of Arbitrary Three-Dimensional Polarization States to Regular States via Spin Cancellation
Authors: Gil José J.
Published: December 2024

The present work is motivated by the necessity of handling and controlling three-dimensional polarization states, whose appropriate preparation has increasing interest in areas like nanotechnologies, quantum computing and near-field phenomena. By virtue of the so-called characteristic decomposition, any polarization state of light can be represented as an incoherent superposition of a pure state, a fully unpolarized state and a discriminating state. The discriminating component has nonzero spin in general, in which case the state is said to be nonregular. A simple procedure to transform an arbitrary nonregular state to a regular one through its incoherent composition with a pure state is described, resulting in a state that lacks a discriminating component. In addition, a method to suppress the spin vector of any given polarization state through its incoherent combination with a circularly polarized pure state is presented. Both approaches allow for the configuration of polarization states with simple features.
A Comparative UPLC/HRMS Molecular Networking-Enhanced Study on the Phenolic Profiles and Bioactivities of Three Medicinally Significant Species of Onosma (Boraginaceae)
Authors: Panou Evgenia , Zengin Gokhan , Milic Nikola , Ganos Christos , Graikou Konstantia , Chinou Ioanna
Published: December 2024

The current work represents a comparative study of the phenolic profiles of three under-explored Onosma (Boraginaceae) species from Greece—Onosma leptantha (OL), Onosma erecta (OE), and Onosma graeca (OG). Although Onosma spp. have ethnopharmacological significance, previous phytochemical studies have focused primarily on roots. Methanolic extracts of the aerial parts were analyzed using qualitative LC-MS enhanced by molecular networking-based dereplication, annotating 94 phenolics categorized into hydroxybenzoic acids (7), hydroxycinnamic acids (24), lignans (14), neolignans (14), stilbenes (4), coumarins (5), and flavonoids (26). OG exhibited the broadest distribution of flavonoid glycosides. OL contained the greatest number of hydroxycinnamic and neolignan derivatives, and OE was notably abundant in lignans. Total phenolic (TPC) and total flavonoid (TFC) contents were quantified, and the antioxidant capacity and enzyme inhibition against cholinesterases, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase were assessed. OL showed a high TPC (69.03 mg GAE/g extract) and strong antioxidant activity, while OG exhibited a high TFC (45.80 mg RE/g extract). All extracts demonstrated stronger AChE inhibition than BChE, with OG showing the highest AChE inhibition (2.35 mg GALAE/g). Additionally, OL was the most active against both α-glucosidase (5.69 mmol ACAE/g) and α-amylase (0.48 mmol ACAE/g). This study improved our understanding of the chemical diversity within these species, providing a more comprehensive insight into their longstanding ethnopharmacological potential.
Clinical and Epidemiological Characteristics of Chikungunya and Dengue Infections in Provincial Hospitals of Davao de Oro, Philippines
Authors: Arce Nestor , Boonnak Kobporn , Bernasor Lee Thunder , Salas Christian Joy , Putri Anastasia , Aung Pyae Linn , Imad Hisham Ahmed , Chierakul Wirongrong , Luvira Viravarn , Phonrat Benjaluck , Phumratanaprapin Weerapong , Charunwatthana Prakaykaew
Published: December 2024

Background: Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya are endemic to tropical regions and are common causes of acute febrile illness in both adults and children. The Philippines, home to more than one hundred million residents and visited by several million tourists each year, is one such region where the risk of these diseases is endemic. Objective and Methods: To better understand the detailed situation, we estimated the proportion of these diseases in the community by conducting a prospective observational study in four provincial hospitals of Davao de Oro, Philippines, from February 2019 to February 2020. Sera from 382 study participants were used for laboratory confirmation of dengue or chikungunya by serology. Results: Dengue was diagnosed in 57.1%, chikungunya in 7.07%, and coinfection with both dengue and chikungunya in 7.3%, while the etiology was undetermined in 35.9% of the study participants. Common clinical symptoms included fever, headache, and a rash, which were overlapping symptoms that were clinically indistinguishable at the presentation to the hospital, necessitating laboratory diagnostics. Conclusions: The identification of the presence of chikungunya in Davao de Oro calls for increased awareness, improved diagnostics, and integrated disease control measures to manage outbreaks that can occur in dengue-endemic regions.
Severity Assessment of Cotton Canopy Verticillium Wilt by Machine Learning Based on Feature Selection and Optimization Algorithm Using UAV Hyperspectral Data
Authors: Li Weinan , Guo Yang , Yang Weiguang , Huang Longyu , Zhang Jianhua , Peng Jun , Lan Yubin
Published: December 2024

Verticillium wilt (VW) represents the most formidable challenge in cotton cultivation, critically impairing both fiber yield and quality. Conventional resistance assessment techniques, which are largely reliant on subjective manual evaluation, fail to meet the demands for precision and scalability required for advanced genetic research. This study introduces a robust evaluation framework utilizing feature selection and optimization algorithms to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of the severity assessment of cotton VW. We conducted comprehensive time-series UAV hyperspectral imaging (400 to 995 nm) on the cotton canopy in a field environment on different days after sowing (DAS). After preprocessing the hyperspectral data to extract wavelet coefficients and vegetation indices, various feature selection methods were implemented to select sensitive spectral features for cotton VW. By leveraging these selected features, we developed machine learning models to assess the severity of cotton VW at the canopy scale. Model validation revealed that the performance of the assessment models responded dynamically as VW progressed and achieved the highest R2 of 0.5807 at DAS 80, with an RMSE of 6.0887. Optimization algorithms made a marked improvement for SVM in severity assessment using all observation data, with R2 increasing from 0.6986 to 0.9007. This study demonstrates the potential of feature selection and machine learning methods based on hyperspectral data in enhancing VW management, promising advancements in high-throughput automated disease assessment, and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.