bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introducing a Simple Tool of Patient Self-Assessment of Wrist Range of Motion
Authors: Stumpfe Maximilian C. , Beneke Kaya , Horch Raymund E. , Arkudas Andreas , Müller-Seubert Wibke , Cai Aijia
Published: August 2024

Hand disorders can reduce wrist range of motion (ROM). The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic highlighted challenges in routine follow-up exams, making telemedicine a viable solution. This study evaluates the feasibility and accuracy of patient self-measured wrist ROM using a self-designed goniometer template. The template was designed to measure flexion/extension and radial/ulnar abduction movements. A cohort of 50 adults (25 males/25 females) participated in this prospective study. The exclusion criteria included wrist immobilization and ages outside of 18–65 years. Participants self-assessed their wrist ROM with the goniometer template. Measurements were independently performed by a student and a specialist using standard goniometry, as well as a resident using the self-designed goniometer. The results were blinded for unbiased analysis. Mean differences in ROM varied across movement directions, with minimal differences for ulnar abduction and more substantial deviations for radial abduction, extension and flexion. The patient–specialist comparison showed deviations below 5 degrees for flexion and ulnar abduction in 50% of cases. Telemedicine, expanded by the COVID-19 pandemic, offers significant potential for hand rehabilitation. Current methods of ROM assessment lack cost-effectiveness and simplicity. Our method, demonstrating comparable accuracy for most movements, provides a cost-effective, reliable alternative for remote ROM assessment, enhancing telemedicine practices in hand rehabilitation.
Solvation Enthalpies and Free Energies for Organic Solvents through a Dense Neural Network: A Generalized-Born Approach
Authors: Vyboishchikov Sergei F.
Published: August 2024

A dense artificial neural network, ESE-ΔH-DNN, with two hidden layers for calculating both solvation free energies ΔG°solv and enthalpies ΔH°solv for neutral solutes in organic solvents is proposed. The input features are generalized-Born-type monatomic and pair electrostatic terms, the molecular volume, and atomic surface areas of the solute, as well as five easily available properties of the solvent. ESE-ΔH-DNN is quite accurate for ΔG°solv, with an RMSE (root mean square error) below 0.6 kcal/mol and an MAE (mean absolute error) well below 0.4 kcal/mol. It performs particularly well for alkane, aromatic, ester, and ketone solvents. ESE-ΔH-DNN also exhibits a fairly good accuracy for ΔH°solv prediction, with an RMSE below 1 kcal/mol and an MAE of about 0.6 kcal/mol.
Exploring the Agential Child in Death-Themed Picturebooks: A Comparative Analysis across Cultures
Authors: Chang Cheng-Ting
Published: August 2024

The status of adults and children in children’s literature is a complex, long-debated issue. Marah Gubar introduced the kinship model, challenging the notion of children as voiceless and emphasizing their agency as human beings. This study argues that the model can serve as a fruitful framework for examining the representation of children in death-themed picturebooks because the phenomenon of death places children and adults in a relatively equal position and implies similarities between them. It analyzes 11 picturebooks featuring agential child protagonists and published in the UK, the US, Japan, and Taiwan. The analysis is directed at four representations: the independent child, the atomized child, the helpful child, and the analogous child and adult. Each exploration describes whether and how the texts illustrate the model’s key points: (1) a child’s voice and agency; (2) the relatedness, connection, and similarity between children and adults; and (3) the gradual, erratic, and variable nature of development from childhood to adulthood. The findings highlight the heterogeneity of agential children across cultures and suggest that scrutinizing childhood requires engagement with adulthood. This perspective inspires us to reconsider the adult-child dichotomy and expand our imagination of what children can be across cultures.
Production of Bioactive Peptides from Microalgae and Their Biological Properties Related to Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Fernando Ranitha , Sun Xiaohong , Rupasinghe H. P. Vasantha
Published: August 2024

Microalgae are a substantial group of unicellular prokaryotic and eukaryotic marine organisms. Due to their high protein content of 50–70%, microalgae have the potential to become a sustainable alternative protein source, as well as aiding in the development of bioactive peptide-based nutraceuticals. A series of major steps are involved in the production of peptides from microalgae, which include the disruption of the microalgal cell wall, the hydrolysis of proteins, and the extraction or isolation of peptides derived from hydrolysis. Physical methods of cell wall disruptions are favored due to the ability to obtain high-quality protein fractions for peptide production. Bioactive peptides are protein fragments of two to twenty amino acid residues that have a beneficial impact on the physiological functions or conditions of human health. Strong scientific evidence exists for the in vitro antioxidant, antihypertensive, and anti-atherosclerotic properties of microalgal peptides. This review is aimed at summarizing the methods of producing microalgal peptides, and their role and mechanisms in improving cardiovascular health. The review reveals that the validation of the physiological benefits of the microalgal peptides in relation to cardiovascular disease, using human clinical trials, is required.
Application of Magnetic Separation in Catalyst Reuse Applied in Paracetamol Degradation
Authors: Oliveira Jessica R. P. , Abreu Eduardo , Fuziki Maria E. K. , Paula Elaine T. de , Fidelis Michel Z. , Brackmann Rodrigo , Tusset Angelo M. , Alves Odivaldo C. , Lenzi Giane G.
Published: August 2024

This work presents an investigation of the degradation of paracetamol via heterogeneous photocatalysis, aiming to magnetically immobilize the catalyst in a continuous process. Catalyst immobilization was conducted on aggregated flower-like structures. The CoFe2O4@Nb5O2 catalyst was characterized using a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM). The effects of the magnetic immobilization of the catalyst, flow, residence time, adsorption, and photolysis were evaluated. Additionally, catalyst reuse cycles were analyzed. The results indicated that a longer residence time favors the degradation of paracetamol due to the increase in the contact time of the effluent catalyst. At a flow rate of 20 mL·min−1, a degradation of 27% was obtained. Photolysis and adsorption tests indicated that residence time was not an important factor for paracetamol degradation. For the photolysis test, in the first cycle, the values obtained were in the range of 6.0–8.5%. The adsorption results indicated ~10% removal.
Exploring the Utilization of Magnetic Composite Materials for High-Risk Contaminant Removal from Wastewater by Adsorption and Catalytic Processes—A Review
Authors: Dragos-Pinzaru Oana-Georgiana , Lupu Nicoleta , Chiriac Horia , Buema Gabriela
Published: August 2024

In the context of waters polluted with different high-risk contaminants, the development of efficient materials able to efficiently clean them is necessary. In the first part, the present review focuses on the ability of various types of magnetic layered double hydroxide materials to act as adsorbents for water contaminated mainly with heavy metals and dyes. Also, this paper reviews the ability of different magnetic layered double hydroxide materials to act as potential adsorbents for the treatment of wastewater contaminated with other types of pollutants, such as pharmaceutical products, phenolic compounds, phytohormones, and fungicides. In the second part, the applicability of the catalytic method for water depollution is explored. Thus, the use of simple or composite materials based on Fe3O4 is reviewed for the purpose of the catalytic degradation of organic compounds (dyes/phenols/pharmaceuticals). At the end, a review of multifunctional materials able to simultaneously neutralize different types of pollutants from wastewater is provided.
Polytomous Knowledge Structures Based on Entail Relations
Authors: He Zhaorong
Published: August 2024

In knowledge structure theory (KST), an individual’s knowledge state represents the items that the individual can completely solve. Based on the differences in individuals’ latent cognitive competence, polytomous knowledge states can be used to partially represent individuals to solve items. This paper explores the construction of polytomous knowledge states and polytomous knowledge structures on a polytomous knowledge domain Q×L. A quasi-ordinal polytomous knowledge space and a polytomous knowledge space can be induced by two different entail relations, respectively. When the polytomous knowledge structure (Q,L,K) on Q×L is determined, accurately evaluating an individual’s polytomous knowledge state is the key to providing learning guidance and taking teaching remedial measures for the individual. Therefore, we study the basic assessment procedure for a given polytomous knowledge structure, and a concrete example is designed to illustrate the method presented in this paper.
Partial Derivative Equations and Identities for Hermite-Based Peters-Type Simsek Polynomials and Their Applications
Authors: Yuluklu Eda
Published: August 2024

The objective of this paper is to investigate Hermite-based Peters-type Simsek polynomials with generating functions. By using generating function methods, we determine some of the properties of these polynomials. By applying the derivative operator to the generating functions of these polynomials, we also determine many of the identities and relations that encompass these polynomials and special numbers and polynomials. Moreover, using integral techniques, we obtain some formulas covering the Cauchy numbers, the Peters-type Simsek numbers and polynomials of the first kind, the two-variable Hermite polynomials, and the Hermite-based Peters-type Simsek polynomials.
On the Sub and Supersolution Method for Nonlinear Elliptic Equations with a Convective Term, in Orlicz Spaces
Authors: Barletta Giuseppina
Published: August 2024

In this note we provide an overview of some existence (with sign information) and regularity results for differential equations, in which the method of sub and supersolutions plays an important role. We list some classical results and then we focus on the Dirichlet problem, for problems driven by a general differential operator, depending on (x,u,∇u), and with a convective term f. Our framework is that of Orlicz–Sobolev spaces. We also present several examples.
Interdependent Influences of Reverse Logistics Implementation Barriers in the Conditions of an Emerging Economy
Authors: Brkljač Nebojša , Delić Milan , Orošnjak Marko , Medić Nenad , Rakić Slavko , Popović Ljiljana
Published: August 2024

This research paper aims to investigate the interdependent influences of barriers to implementing reverse logistics in the broad spectrum of processing activities in the conditions of an emerging economy. An effort was made to approach these barriers (i.e., organizational and management barriers, technical and technological barriers, and economic, financial, and market barriers) based on the relevant literature, predominant attitudes, and experts’ opinions, thus contributing to the body of knowledge in this domain. Determining the intensity of interdependent influences and the importance of barriers for implementing reverse logistics was performed to determine the most important (key) barriers that can be practically applied as guidelines for decision making. The Fuzzy DEMATEL method was used to determine the intensity of these influences on a sample of manufacturing companies in the Republic of Serbia. The results indicate that the most critical barriers to the successful implementation of reverse logistics are a lack of management support and cooperation with scientific institutions and professional associations to acquire knowledge and follow trends in the field.
An Improved Medical Image Classification Algorithm Based on Adam Optimizer
Authors: Sun Haijing , Zhou Wen , Yang Jiapeng , Shao Yichuan , Xing Lei , Zhao Qian , Zhang Le
Published: August 2024

Due to the complexity and illegibility of medical images, it brings inconvenience and difficulty to the diagnosis of medical personnel. To address these issues, an optimization algorithm called GSL(Gradient sine linear) based on Adam algorithm improvement is proposed in this paper, which introduces gradient pruning strategy, periodic adjustment of learning rate, and linear interpolation strategy. The gradient trimming technique can scale the gradient to prevent gradient explosion, while the periodic adjustment of the learning rate and linear interpolation strategy adjusts the learning rate according to the characteristics of the sinusoidal function, accelerating the convergence while reducing the drastic parameter fluctuations, improving the efficiency and stability of training. The experimental results show that compared to the classic Adam algorithm, this algorithm can demonstrate better classification accuracy, the GSL algorithm achieves an accuracy of 78% and 75.2% on the MobileNetV2 network and ShuffleNetV2 network under the Gastroenterology dataset; and on the MobileNetV2 network and ShuffleNetV2 network under the Glaucoma dataset, an accuracy of 84.72% and 83.12%. The GSL optimizer achieved significant performance improvement on various neural network structures and datasets, proving its effectiveness and practicality in the field of deep learning, and also providing new ideas and methods for solving the difficulties in medical image recognition.
The Association of Systemic and Mandibular Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Females with Osteoporosis
Authors: Duncea Ioana , Bacali Cecilia , Buduru Smaranda , Scrobota Ioana , Almășan Oana
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: Osteoporosis is a common general disease that mostly affects the skeletal system, including the jawbone. There is a link between systemic and mandibular osteoporosis. This study aimed at assessing the association between systemic (lumbar spine L1–L4, femoral neck, total hip) bone mineral density (BMD) and mandible BMD sites in Romanian postmenopausal females. Methods: A total of 97 menopausal patients were studied, 62 with osteoporosis and 35 females with no osteoporosis. For each patient, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) assessments of BMD in the mandible, proximal femur, total hip, and lumbar spine (L1–L4) were performed. Mandibular measurements were performed using the distal forearm software, followed by manual analysis after the bone contour was defined in each case. Results: Comparing the osteoporosis and control groups, there were significant differences in BMD at each examined location. The mandibular BMD (1.125 ± 0.181506 g/cm2) in the osteoporosis group was considerably smaller than in the control group (1.35497 ± 0.244397 g/cm2). Correlations between the BMD at different sites were significant: lumbar spine and femoral neck (r = 0.738, p < 0.0001), lumbar spine and total hip (r = 0.735, p < 0.0001), lumbar spine and mandible (r = 0.506, p < 0.0001), femoral neck and total hip (r = 0.891, p < 0.0001), femoral neck and mandible (r = 0.482, p < 0.0001), and total hip and mandible (r = 0.466, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: There were correlations between mandible BMD and lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip BMD, suggesting that osteoporosis affects mandibular bone density. BMD assessments at common locations may help predict mandibular BMD and the probability of osteoporosis.
Effects of Different No-Ozone Cold Plasma Treatment Methods on Mouse Osteoblast Proliferation and Differentiation
Authors: Choi Byul-Bo Ra , Park Sang-Rye , Kim Gyoo-Cheon
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: Enhanced osteoblast differentiation may be leveraged to prevent and treat bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis. No-ozone cold plasma (NCP) treatment is a promising and safe strategy to enhance osteoblast differentiation. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effectiveness of direct and indirect NCP treatment methods on osteoblast differentiation. Mouse osteoblastic cells (MC3T3-E1) were treated with NCP using different methods, i.e., no NCP treatment (NT group; control), direct NCP treatment (DT group), direct NCP treatment followed by media replacement (MC group), and indirect treatment with NCP-treated media only (PAM group). Materials and Methods: The MC3T3-E1 cells were subsequently assessed for cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcium deposition, and ALP and osteocalcin mRNA expression using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: Cell proliferation significantly increased in the NCP-treated groups (DT and PAM; MC and PAM) compared to the NT group after 24 h (p < 0.038) and 48 h (p < 0.000). ALP activity was increased in the DT and PAM groups at 1 week (p < 0.115) and in the DT, MC, and PAM groups at 2 weeks (p < 0.000) compared to the NT group. Calcium deposition was higher in the NCP-treated groups than in NT group at 2 and 3 weeks (p < 0.000). ALP mRNA expression peaked in the MC group at 2 weeks compared to the NP group (p < 0.014). Osteocalcin mRNA expression increased in the MC group at 2 weeks (p < 0.000) and was the highest in the PAM group at 3 weeks (p < 0.000). Thus, the effects of direct (DT and MC) and indirect (PAM) treatment varied, with MC direct treatment showing the most significant impact on osteoblast activity. Conclusions: The MC group exhibited enhanced osteoblast differentiation, indicating that direct NCP treatment followed by media replacement is the most effective method for promoting bone formation.
Nodular Graphite Dissolution and Nucleus Observation: High-Temperature Dynamics of Ductile Iron Recycling
Authors: Adhiwiguna I. , Nobakht N. , Deike R.
Published: August 2024

This investigation examines the dynamic behavior of the nodular graphite structure in ductile cast iron at elevated temperatures during the recycling process. It comprises a systematic analysis of the impact of high temperature on the change in chemical composition, followed by a set of examinations of the nodular graphite structure dissolution mechanism at the early phase of the remelting process. The results indicate that prolonged holding at higher temperatures affects the carbon or silicon concentration due to oxidation, which correlates with the operating temperature and the dynamic concentration proportion of those two main alloying elements. It is also substantiated that the dissolution of nodular graphite, the only carbon source during the ductile cast iron remelting process, does not occur primarily in the liquid state but has already started during the solid phase because of austenitization. This dissolution is governed mainly by a surface reaction, as indicated by the residual graphite structure with preserved nonmetallic nuclei. Hence, this approach also provides an alternative method for observing the nodular graphite core by intentionally partially dissolving the graphite structure.
Hyperpolarized Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Metabolomics, and Artificial Intelligence to Interrogate the Metabolic Evolution of Glioblastoma
Authors: Hsieh Kang Lin , Chen Qing , Salzillo Travis C. , Zhang Jian , Jiang Xiaoqian , Bhattacharya Pratip K. , Shams Shyan
Published: August 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a malignant Grade VI cancer type with a median survival duration of only 8–16 months. Earlier detection of GBM could enable more effective treatment. Hyperpolarized magnetic resonance spectroscopy (HPMRS) could detect GBM earlier than conventional anatomical MRI in glioblastoma murine models. We further investigated whether artificial intelligence (A.I.) could detect GBM earlier than HPMRS. We developed a deep learning model that combines multiple modalities of cancer data to predict tumor progression, assess treatment effects, and to reconstruct in vivo metabolomic information from ex vivo data. Our model can detect GBM progression two weeks earlier than conventional MRIs and a week earlier than HPMRS alone. Our model accurately predicted in vivo biomarkers from HPMRS, and the results inferred biological relevance. Additionally, the model showed potential for examining treatment effects. Our model successfully detected tumor progression two weeks earlier than conventional MRIs and accurately predicted in vivo biomarkers using ex vivo information such as conventional MRIs, HPMRS, and tumor size data. The accuracy of these predictions is consistent with biological relevance.
Functional Abdominal Bloating and Gut Microbiota: An Update
Authors: Crucillà Salvatore , Caldart Federico , Michelon Marco , Marasco Giovanni , Costantino Andrea
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: Functional abdominal bloating and distension (FAB/FAD) are common disorders of the gut–brain interaction. Their physiopathology is complex and not completely clarified, although gut microbiota imbalances play a central role. The treatment of FAB/FAD still represents a clinical challenge for both patients and healthcare providers. Gut microbiota modulation strategies might play a crucial role in their management. The aim of this narrative review was to update the current evidence on FAB/FAD, with a focus on gut microbiota. (2) Methods: In October 2023, a review was conducted through the Medline, PubMed, and Embase databases. Selected literature included all available English-edited studies (randomized controlled trials and cross-sectional, cohort, and case-control studies). (3) Results: Twelve studies were selected, most of which investigated the relationship between IBS and microbiota, with bloating being one of its symptoms. The studies suggest that restoring a balanced microbiome appears to be the most promising solution for better management of FAB/FAD. Targeted approaches, such as the use of probiotics, prebiotics, antibiotics such as rifaximin or dietary modifications, may hold the key to alleviating symptoms. Other therapeutic options, such as diet, neuromodulators, and brain–gut behavioral therapies (i.e., cognitive-behavioral therapy) have shown promising outcomes, but strong data are still lacking. (4) Conclusions: Targeted approaches that focus on the gut microbiota, such as the use of probiotics, prebiotics, and antibiotics, are essential in managing FAB/FAD. Understanding the complex relationship between gut microbiota and FAB/FAD is crucial for developing effective treatments. Further studies are needed to explore the specific roles of different microbial populations in patients with FAB/FAD to enhance therapeutic strategies.
Bubble Size Characterization in the HydroFloat® Fluidized-Bed Flotation Cell Using Tap Water and Seawater
Authors: Gahona Giovanni , Cisternas Luís A. , Araya-Gómez Natalia , Lucay Freddy A. , Gálvez Edelmira D. , Lopéz-Valdivieso Alejandro , Valdes Felipe
Published: August 2024

This research aims to analyze the behavior of bubble size distribution in the HydroFloat® with seawater and tap water. The study characterized bubble size in a two-phase gas–water system in a fluidized-bed flotation cell. The impact of seawater was compared to tap water using two frothers, MIBC and polyglycol F507. The experimental design was used to investigate the influence of various parameters such as superficial air velocity, superficial liquid velocity, frother concentration, and seawater concentration on bubble size. The results indicate that the critical coalescence concentration followed the order of MIBC > F507. Bubble size decreases with increasing superficial liquid velocity, while the superficial gas velocity and frother/seawater concentration have the opposite effect. ANOVA results reveal that all linear factors are significant, the quadratic terms of the frother and seawater concentrations are significant, and the interaction term for the superficial air velocity–superficial liquid velocity is nonsignificant for bubble size. Global sensitivity analysis demonstrates that the variables significantly affecting bubble size are frother concentration and seawater concentration, followed by superficial water velocity. The superficial gas velocity has minimal impact on bubble size under the conditions studied.
Bentonite Clays Related to Volcanosedimentary Formations in Southeastern Spain: Mineralogical, Chemical and Pozzolanic Characteristics
Authors: Crespo Elena , Martín Domingo A. , Costafreda Jorge L.
Published: August 2024

The volcanism that took place during the Neogene in the southeastern Iberian Peninsula caused a large accumulation of volcanosedimentary materials, which were subsequently altered and transformed into bentonite deposits. The mineral composition and technical quality of these deposits have been demonstrated and established in this work. The main object of this research is the mineral, chemical and thermal characterization of the bentonites that lie in the southeastern region of Spain and to demonstrate their technical capabilities to be used as pozzolans. The first phase of characterization of the samples was carried out by X-ray diffraction (XRD), oriented aggregates (OAs), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). In the second phase, a chemical–technical quality test (CTQT) was carried out, aimed at determining reactive SiO2 and reactive CaO, whereas in the third phase, a chemical pozzolanicity test (CPT) was carried out to establish the pozzolanic behavior of the samples over two test periods: 8 and 15 days. The XRD and OA analyses showed that the bentonite samples are made up of a main phase formed by montmorillonite, quartz, plagioclase-albite and chabazite–Ca. The results obtained by XRF on the bentonite samples indicated that the SiO2 contents are high and vary between 43.33% and 64.71%, while Al2O3 ranges between 15.81% and 17.49%. The CTQT established that more than 80% of the SiO2 and CaO present in the samples are reactive, which was confirmed by the results of the chemical pozzolanicity test (CPT). The results obtained show that the bentonites in this study present technical qualities that are undoubtedly reinforced by their mineral constitution and chemical composition. These tests could become a practical guide for the selection of eco-efficient materials in the production of pozzolanic cements and environmentally friendly ceramic products.
The Early Neoproterozoic Andean-Type Orogenic and Within-Plate Magmatic Events in the Northern Margin of the Yangtze Craton during the Convergence of the Rodinia Supercontinent
Authors: Wei Yunxu , Li Haiquan , Zhou Wenxiao , Ma Changqian , Chi Fru Ernest , Xu Daliang , Deng Xin , Tan Mantang , Zhao Xiaoming , Xu Yang , Liu Hao
Published: August 2024

Although considered a crucial component of the Rodinia supercontinent, it remains uncertain how the Yangtze craton relates to the accretion and breakup of Rodinia. Here, the Huanglingmiao granitic complex (HGC), an intermediate-acid rock series that intruded on the southern Kongling terrane of the northern Yangtze craton margin, is investigated to help resolve this conundrum. Our analysis indicates that these rocks consist of tonalite, trondhjemite, granodiorite, oligoporphyritic granodiorite, porphyric biotite granodiorite, and fine- to medium-grained granodiorite dyke compositions. Collectively, this assemblage is further subdivided into two categories by their temporal, spatial, and geochemical features into early TTG-like and later granitic–dioritic units, which are composed of tonalite, trondhjemite, granodiorite, porphyritic granodiorite, and the fine- to medium-grained granodiorite dykes, respectively. Zircon U-Pb dating yields ages of 865~850 Ma for the TTG-like rocks, 844~825 Ma for the porphyritic granodiorites, and ~800 Ma for the granodiorite dykes. Combined with geochemical evidence, the data suggest that the early- and late-series rocks were formed by a partial melting of Mesoproterozoic and Paleoproterozoic crustal materials, respectively, suggesting that the vertical layering of the crust controlled the composition of the independent units. In addition, isotopic evidence points to different sources for the various rocks in the Kongling terrane and that mantle-derived materials influenced the early-series lithologies. Combined with previous studies on the northern margin of the Yangtze craton, it is inferred that the early-series rocks formed in an active continental margin environment, while the late-series rocks display within-plate boundary formation characteristics. The multiple magmatic activities revealed by this study record sequential partial melting with tectonic transition characteristics from an Andean-type to within-plate magmatism in the northern margin of the Yangtze craton. Taken together, these observations point to a strong association between these rocks, convergence, and incorporation of the northern Yangtze craton margin into the Rodinia supercontinent during the Tonian Period.
Hydrated Metal Vanadate Heterostructures as Cathode Materials for Stable Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Siqi , Wang Yan , Wu Yunyu , Zhang Guanlun , Chen Yanli , Wang Fengyou , Fan Lin , Yang Lili , Wu Qiong
Published: August 2024

Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) have received a lot of attention in electrochemical energy storage systems for their low cost, environmental compatibility, and good safety. However, cathode materials still face poor material stability and conductivity, which cause poor reversibility and poor rate performance in AZIBs. Herein, a heterogeneous structure combined with cation pre-intercalation strategies was used to prepare a novel CaV6O16·3H2O@Ni0.24V2O5·nH2O material (CaNiVO) for high-performance Zn storage. Excellent energy storage performance was achieved via the wide interlayer conductive network originating from the interlayer-embedded metal ions and heterointerfaces of the two-phase CaNiVO. Furthermore, this unique structure further showed excellent structural stability and led to fast electron/ion transport dynamics. Benefiting from the heterogeneous structure and cation pre-intercalation strategies, the CaNiVO electrodes showed an impressive specific capacity of 334.7 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and a rate performance of 110.3 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1. Therefore, this paper provides a feasible strategy for designing and optimizing cathode materials with superior Zn ion storage performance.
Influence of Heat Treatment on Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Damping Behavior of 2024 Aluminum Matrix Composites Reinforced by Carbon Nanoparticles
Authors: Rativa-Parada Wilson , Nilufar Sabrina
Published: August 2024

Nanocarbon 2024 aluminum composites with 0.5 vol. % and 1 vol. % of graphene nanoplatelets and 1 vol. % and 2 vol. % of activated nanocarbon were manufactured through induction casting. The effect of the reinforcements and heat treatment on the performance of the composites was examined. Analysis of the microstructure of the composites before heat treatment suggested the homogeneous dispersion of reinforcements and the absence of secondary carbide or oxide phases. The presence of carbon nanoparticles had a significant impact on the microstructural characteristics of the matrix. This behavior was further enhanced after the heat treatment. The mechanical and damping properties were evaluated with the uniaxial compression test, micro Vickers hardness test, and dynamic mechanical analysis. The yield strength and ultimate strength were improved up to 28% (1 vol. % of graphene nanoplatelets) and 45% (0.5 vol. % of graphene nanoplatelets), respectively, compared to the as-cast 2024 aluminum. Similarly, compared to the heat-treated 2024 aluminum, the composites increased up to 56% (0.5 vol. % of graphene nanoplatelets) and 57% (0.5 vol. % of graphene nanoplatelets) in yield strength and ultimate strength, respectively. Likewise, the hardness of the samples was up to 33% (1 vol. % of graphene nanoplatelets) higher than that of the as-cast 2024 aluminum, and up to 31% (2 vol. % of activated nanocarbon) with respect to the heat-treated 2024 aluminum. The damping properties of the nanocarbon–aluminum composites were determined at variable temperatures and strain amplitudes. The results indicate that damping properties improved for the composites without heat treatment. As a result, it is demonstrated that using small volume fractions of nanocarbon allotropes enhanced the mechanical properties for both with- and without-heat treatment with a limited loss of plastic deformation before failure for the 2024 aluminum matrix.
Low-Temperature Fabrication of BiFeO3 Films on Aluminum Foils under a N2-Rich Atmosphere
Authors: Yan Jing
Published: August 2024

To be CMOS-compatible, a low preparation temperature (<500 °C) for ferroelectric films is required. In this study, BiFeO3 films were successfully fabricated at a low annealing temperature (<450 °C) on aluminum foils by a metal–organic decomposition process. The effect of the annealing atmosphere on the performance of BiFeO3 films was assessed at 440 ± 5 °C. By using a N2-rich atmosphere, a large remnant polarization (Pr~78.1 μC/cm2 @ 1165.2 kV/cm), and a high rectangularity (~91.3% @ 1165.2 kV/cm) of the P-E loop, excellent charge-retaining ability of up to 1.0 × 103 s and outstanding fatigue resistance after 1.0 × 109 switching cycles could be observed. By adopting a N2-rich atmosphere and aluminum foil substrates, acceptable electrical properties (Pr~70 μC/cm2 @ 1118.1 kV/cm) of the BiFeO3 films were achieved at the very low annealing temperature of 365 ± 5 °C. These results offer a new approach for lowering the annealing temperature for integrated ferroelectrics in high-density FeRAM applications.
Nebivolol Polymeric Nanoparticles-Loaded In Situ Gel for Effective Treatment of Glaucoma: Optimization, Physicochemical Characterization, and Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation
Authors: Rawat Pradeep Singh , Ravi Punna Rao , Khan Mohammed Shareef , Mahajan Radhika Rajiv , Szeleszczuk Łukasz
Published: August 2024

Nebivolol hydrochloride (NEB), a 3rd-generation beta-blocker, was recently explored in managing open-angle glaucoma due to its mechanism of action involving nitric oxide release for the vasodilation. To overcome the issue of low ocular bioavailability and the systemic side effects associated with conventional ocular formulation (aqueous suspension), we designed and optimized polycaprolactone polymeric nanoparticles (NEB-PNPs) by applying design of experiments (DoE). The particle size and drug loading of the optimized NEB-PNPs were 270.9 ± 6.3 nm and 28.8 ± 2.4%, respectively. The optimized NEB-PNPs were suspended in a dual-sensitive in situ gel prepared using a mixture of P407 + P188 (as a thermo-sensitive polymer) and κCRG (as an ion-sensitive polymer), reported previously by our group. The NEB-PNPs-loaded in situ gel (NEB-PNPs-ISG) formulation was characterized for its rheological behavior, physical and chemical stability, in vitro drug release, and in vivo efficacy. The NEB-PNPs-loaded in situ gel, in ocular pharmacokinetic studies, achieved higher aqueous humor exposure (AUC0–t = 329.2 ng × h/mL) and for longer duration (mean residence time = 9.7 h) than compared to the aqueous suspension of plain NEB (AUC0–t = 189 ng × h/mL and mean residence time = 6.1 h) reported from our previous work. The pharmacokinetic performance of NEB-PNPs-loaded in situ gel translated into a pharmacodynamic response with 5-fold increase in the overall percent reduction in intraocular pressure by the formulation compared to the aqueous suspension of plain NEB reported from our previous work. Further, the mean response time of NEB-PNPs-loaded in situ gel (12.4 ± 0.6 h) was three times higher than aqueous suspension of plain NEB (4.06 ± 0.3 h).
Effect of Time of Nitrogen Fertilization on Use of Root Reserves in Megathyrsus maximus Cultivars
Authors: Motta Aline M. , Motta Luiz J. M. , Mota Lucas G. , Assis Lucas M. B. , Moura Anna B. O. , Borges Luis C. O. , Silva Gustavo B. A. , Duarte Camila F. D. , Cabral Carla H. A. , Cabral Carlos E. A.
Published: August 2024

Nitrogen is a very important nutrient in grass maintenance fertilization and therefore must be applied at the appropriate moment. The objective of this study was to identify the most responsive moment to nitrogen fertilization and to verify if root mass and the content of carbohydrates and nitrogen in roots influence the moment of fertilization in cultivars of Megathyrsus maximus (syn. Panicum maximum). This study was carried out simultaneously in a greenhouse using a completely randomized design, with sixteen treatments and five replications, in a 4×4 factorial design. The treatments consisted of four intervals between cultivar defoliation and nitrogen fertilization (0, 3, 6 and 9 days) and four Megathyrsus maximus cultivars, Mombasa, BRS Zuri, BRS Quenia and BRS Tamani, which were evaluated in five regrowth cycles. No difference in forage mass was observed among cultivars when fertilization was performed on days zero, three and nine after harvesting. On day nine, Mombasa showed a higher forage mass compared to BRS Tamani. Nitrogen content in the roots of Zuri decreased when fertilization was performed on the third day after defoliation, remaining constant in the other fertilization intervals. A linear reduction in root starch in BRS Zuri was observed, while in Mombasa cultivars, a linear increase was observed when fertilization was performed nine days after harvesting. Thus, nitrogen fertilization of BRS Tamani should be carried out closer to defoliation, while Mombasa, BRS Zuri and BRS Quenia can be fertilized up to nine days after harvesting, which results in greater flexibility regarding the moment of nitrogen fertilization.
Comparison of Organic and Inorganic Fertilization in Fenugreek Cultivation Using Nitrogen Indicators
Authors: Folina Antigolena , Mavroeidis Antonios , Stavropoulos Panteleimon , Eisenbach Lydia , Kakabouki Ioanna , Bilalis Dimitrios
Published: August 2024

Nitrogen indices could be used to evaluate organic and inorganic fertilization because they provide quantitative measures of nitrogen availability in the soil, allowing for a more accurate assessment of nutrient-management practices and optimization of crop yields. This study investigates the impact of different fertilization types and salinity on various soil parameters in fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) cultivation and nitrogen indices. A field experiment was established at the Agricultural University of Athens during the cropping period of 2018–2019 (CP I), 2019–2020 (CP II), and 2020–2021 (CP III) in a split-plot design with two main salinity treatments (high salinity, HS, and conventional salinity, CS) and five fertilization treatments (biocyclic–vegan humus soil (BHS), manure (FYM), compost (COMP), inorganic fertilization (11–15–15), and the control (C). The Nitrogen Balance Intensity (NBI) was statistically significantly affected by the factors of fertilization (p ≤ 0.01) and salinity (p ≤ 0.001) for CP I. The maximum NUEcrop value was recorded in the FYM treatment (0.83 ± 0.04) and the minimum in the COMP treatment (0.64 ± 0.04). Physiological efficiency (PE) was not significantly affected by any treatment for CP III. The fertilization factor significantly affected the NUEsoil index (p ≤ 0.001) for all three CPs. For CP I, the highest Nitrogen Uptake Efficiency (NUpE) value was recorded in the BHS treatment (27.08 ± 7.31) and the lowest in the C treatment (13.22 ± 7.31). There were no significant differences in CP I and CP II NUEbalance values among the NPK, BHS, and FYM treatments. These findings underscore the potential of organic fertilizers in addressing the global nitrogen challenge and promoting environmentally sustainable farming practices.
Surgical Techniques of Gastrocnemius Recession and Achilles Tendon Lengthening (Descriptive Review Article)
Authors: Olaonipekun Robin , Merabia Bouchra Ghania , Lisyansky Anthony , Olaonipekun Emmanuel , Gaber Karim , Kishta Waleed
Published: August 2024

This paper aims to review the various surgical techniques for gastrocnemius–soleus recession and Achilles tendon lengthening, with a special focus on the treatment of clubfoot and cerebral palsy (CP) equinus contracture. This descriptive review article comprehensively explores different techniques for gastrocnemius recession, including the Hoke percutaneous triple hemisection, Baker’s method (Tongue-in-Groove Gastrocnemius–Soleus Recession), the Vulpius method, the Baumann procedure, and the Strayer procedure (Gastrocnemius Recession). The objective is to present a detailed analysis of these methods, covering their indications, procedural nuances, relevance in clinical practice, and outcomes.
An Empirical Consistent Redshift Bias: A Possible Direct Observation of Zwicky’s TL Theory
Authors: Shamir Lior
Published: August 2024

Recent advancements have shown tensions between observations and our current understanding of the Universe. Such observations may include the H0 tension and massive galaxies at high redshift that are older than traditional galaxy formation models have predict. Since these observations are based on redshift as the primary distance indicator, a bias in the redshift may explain these tensions. While redshift follows an established model, when applied to astronomy it is based on the assumption that the rotational velocity of the Milky Way galaxy relative to the observed galaxies has a negligible effect on redshift. But given the mysterious nature of the physics of galaxy rotation, that assumption needed to be tested. The test was done by comparing the redshift of galaxies rotating in the same direction relative to the Milky Way to the redshift of galaxies rotating in the opposite direction relative to the Milky Way. The results show that the mean redshift of galaxies that rotate in the same direction relative to the Milky Way is higher than the mean redshift of galaxies that rotate in the opposite direction. Additionally, the redshift difference becomes larger as the redshift gets higher. The consistency of the analysis was verified by comparing data collected by three different telescopes, annotated using four different methods, released by three different research teams, and covering both the northern and southern ends of the galactic pole. All the datasets are in excellent agreement with each other, showing consistency in the observed redshift bias. Given the “reproducibility crisis” in science, all the datasets used in this study are publicly available, and the results can be easily reproduced. This observation could be the first direct empirical reproducible observation for the Zwicky’s “tired-light” model.
Advancing Public Health Surveillance: Integrating Modeling and GIS in the Wastewater-Based Epidemiology of Viruses, a Narrative Review
Authors: Cuadros Diego F. , Chen Xi , Li Jingjing , Omori Ryosuke , Musuka Godfrey
Published: August 2024

This review article will present a comprehensive examination of the use of modeling, spatial analysis, and geographic information systems (GIS) in the surveillance of viruses in wastewater. With the advent of global health challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, wastewater surveillance has emerged as a crucial tool for the early detection and management of viral outbreaks. This review will explore the application of various modeling techniques that enable the prediction and understanding of virus concentrations and spread patterns in wastewater systems. It highlights the role of spatial analysis in mapping the geographic distribution of viral loads, providing insights into the dynamics of virus transmission within communities. The integration of GIS in wastewater surveillance will be explored, emphasizing the utility of such systems in visualizing data, enhancing sampling site selection, and ensuring equitable monitoring across diverse populations. The review will also discuss the innovative combination of GIS with remote sensing data and predictive modeling, offering a multi-faceted approach to understand virus spread. Challenges such as data quality, privacy concerns, and the necessity for interdisciplinary collaboration will be addressed. This review concludes by underscoring the transformative potential of these analytical tools in public health, advocating for continued research and innovation to strengthen preparedness and response strategies for future viral threats. This article aims to provide a foundational understanding for researchers and public health officials, fostering advancements in the field of wastewater-based epidemiology.
Multi-Faceted Approach to Ventricular Tachycardia: A Review of Management Strategies
Authors: Hartge Francis , Skeete Jamario , Pinedo Alejandro , Zeleke Bethlehem , Khan Asad , Mekritthikrai Raktham , Dye Cicely Anne
Published: August 2024

Ventricular tachycardia poses a significant therapeutic challenge. It can manifest over a spectrum from minimal palpitation symptoms to sudden cardiac death. This makes large-scale trials on the treatment of ventricular tachycardia difficult to perform. The mechanism of ventricular tachycardia must also be understood before embarking on treatment. Patients with or without structural heart disease will have different mechanisms for the onset and propagation of these arrhythmias. Catheter ablation is an established management option for ventricular tachycardia; however, it is not always successful and anti-arrhythmic medications are often necessary to control these life-threatening arrhythmias. Although anti-arrhythmics can suppress ventricular tachycardias they also carry side effects. In certain substrates, some of these medications can exacerbate arrhythmias or heart failure. For these reasons, a multifaceted approach to treating ventricular tachycardia is necessary. This paper is a comprehensive review of the comprehensive management strategies for ventricular tachycardia. Anti-arrhythmic medications have an important role and their use in various cardiomyopathies and channelopathies is reviewed in detail. We also review the promising effects of gene therapy and artificial intelligence on different substrates for ventricular tachycardia.
Optimization of CdSe Thin-Film Photoelectrochemical Cells: Effects of NaOH/Na2S/S Redox Couple Concentration and Activity on Cell Efficiency
Authors: Zyoud Ahed H.
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the relationships among redox couple activity, electrolyte concentration, and efficiency in CdSe thin-film photoelectrochemical solar cells. A CdSe photo-electrode was prepared using the electro-depositing technique to produce well-staged layering of CdSe, followed by chemical bath deposition to produce a layer with an acceptable thickness to absorb enough photons to create a suitable amount of photocurrent. The CdSe photo-electrochemical cell was tested under various concentrations of a NaOH/Na2S/S electrolyte solution. The results showed that the activity of the redox couple greatly affected the efficiencies of the solar cells. Correlation plots between ionic strength and PEC efficiency with the Debye–Hückel equation yielded an R² value of 0.96, while those between ionic strength and photocurrent density had an R² value of 0.92. The correlation between concentration and PEC efficiency was much weaker. This paper highlights how optimal ionic activity increases the performance of photoelectrochemical solar cells, which consequently improves the conversion efficiency of solar energy.