bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Structure of Micro-Variability in the WEBT BL Lacertae Observation
Authors: Webb James R. , Sanz Ivan Parra
Published: November 2023

We present the results of an in-depth analysis of the Whole Earth Blazar Telescope (WEBT) micro-variability observations made during a campaign done in 2020 on the blazar BL Lacertae. The data consisted of 231 days of optical imaging and we separated the long-term light curve into individual single-night light curves, and then chose 41 nights that contained over 100 individual observations and also showed micro-variations well above the noise. Micro-variability is defined as excursions in the order of 0.01–0.1 magnitudes over timescales of hours or minutes either above or below a linear background sampled over the entire night. We then fit each individual micro-variability curve with model pulses from turbulent cells using the turbulent jet model.. We present the results of the pulse fitting analysis, which yields turbulent cell sizes, amplitudes and turbulent plasma characteristics.
Induced Seismicity Hazard Assessment for a Potential CO2 Storage Site in the Southern San Joaquin Basin, CA
Authors: Kohli Arjun , Li Yunan , Kim Tae Wook , Kovscek Anthony R.
Published: November 2023

California’s Central Valley offers vast opportunities for CO2 storage in deep saline aquifers. We conducted an induced seismicity hazard assessment for a potential injection site in the southern San Joaquin Basin for 18 years of injection at 0.68 MtCO2/yr and 100 years of monitoring. We mapped stress, faults, and seismicity in a 30 km radius around the site to build a geomechanical model and resolve the stresses on major faults. From a 3D hydromechanical simulation of the CO2 plume, we calculated the change in pressure over time on these faults and determined the conditions for safe injection. Lacking any subsurface imaging, we also conducted a probabilistic fault slip analysis using numerous random distributions of faults and a range of geomechanical parameters. Our results show that the change in probability of fault slip can be minimized by controlling the size, migration, and magnitude of the pressure plume. We also constructed a seismic catalog for the last 20 years around the site and characterized the natural patterns of seismicity. We use these results to establish criteria for evaluating potential-induced events during the storage period and to develop a traffic light response system. This study represents a first-order procedure to evaluate the seismic hazards presented by CO2 storage and incorporate uncertainties in hydrological and geomechanical parameters.
Advances in Coupling Computational Fluid Dynamics and Discrete Element Method in Geotechnical Problems
Authors: Cao Yang , Nguyen Hoang Bao Khoi , Aikins Derrick , Karim Md. Rajibul , Rahman Md. Mizanur
Published: November 2023

In some cases, the water content in granular soil increases to the extent that it becomes saturated, which noticeably alters its responses. For example, the pore water pressure within saturated granular soil would increase rapidly under sudden external loading, which is equivalent to undrained or constant volume conditions. This reduces the effective stress in soil dramatically and may result in catastrophic failure. There have been different numerical approaches to analyse such a failure mechanism of soil to provide a deeper understanding of soil behaviour at the microscopic level. One of the most common numerical tools for such analysis is the discrete element method (DEM) due to its advantage in obtaining microscopic properties (e.g., statistics on particle contacts and fabric), reproducibility and simple feedback control. However, most DEM studies ignore the fluid phase and merely consider the solid particles while the fluid pressure is indirectly calculated by mimicking undrained condition to a constant volume condition. Note that fluid’s influence does not limit to the change of pore water pressure. For example, the external loading would induce the movement of fluid, and the fluid-solid interaction could subsequently drag the solid particles to shift within the system. In addition, the state of soil could change from solid to suspension under an excess hydraulic gradient. Therefore, the study of the fluid-solid mixture is essential as it is a typical scenario in geotechnical practice, and the simulations of saturated sand should be conducted in numerical forms in which both the solid and fluid phases can be modelled.
Comparative Analysis of Patient Satisfaction Surveys—A Crucial Role in Raising the Standard of Healthcare Services
Authors: Bancsik Karoly , Ilea Codrin Dan Nicolae , Daina Mădălina Diana , Bancsik Raluca , Șuteu Corina Lacramioara , Bîrsan Simona Daciana , Manole Felicia , Daina Lucia Georgeta
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: The study aimed to assess the patients’ perception of the quality of the medical staff’s care, the hotel’s services, and the hospital’s overall impression as well as to determine the best rating scale through a comparative analysis of patient satisfaction questionnaires. (2) Methods: A retrospective study was performed based on satisfaction questionnaires addressed to the patients hospitalized in the Orthopedics and Traumatology departments of the County Clinical Emergency Hospital Oradea between 2015 and 2019. Three different types of questionnaires were used during the study period, with the number of questions varying between 30 (variant A) and 37 (variant C). The evaluation was done using the Likert scales with three, four, or five answer variables. (3) Results: The items that we found to be present in all three categories of surveys and for which at least two different questionnaire variants used the Likert scales with various answer variables were chosen. In terms of the treatment given by the medical staff, hotel services, and the overall perception of the hospital, the patients perceive a higher level of quality. (4) Conclusions: The level of patient overall satisfaction or general impression about the hospital is strongly dependent on the quality of medical care provided by the doctors and the specific hotel conditions of the hospital. The quality assessment using the Likert rating scale with five binary variables is more accurate.
Edu-Communication from Museums to Formal Education: Cases around Intangible Cultural Heritage and the Co-Creative Paradigm
Authors: Rivero Pilar , Jové-Monclús Gloria , Rubio-Navarro Alodia
Published: November 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic forced museums to rethink their activity in the context of social media, thus generating new ways of communicating and educating about the heritage they preserve. This article explores the indissoluble relationship established between these emerging edu-communication models and the spaces destined to safeguard the intangible cultural heritage (ICH), since the latter is a sociocultural phenomenon whose museumization requires education and civic participation. In order to determine to what extent museum edu-communication inspired by the co-creative paradigm can be extended into formal teaching contexts for the generation of heritage bonds and communities around ICH, two cases produced at the J. Trepat Factory Museum in Tàrrega (Spain) are analyzed through an autoethnographic approach. Both examples encourage a reflection on how the co-creative paradigm makes it possible to raise awareness and involve the entire community in the safeguarding of heritage, while at the same time promoting the expansion and reformulation of the institution’s proposals. We conclude that the integration of this approach into formal pedagogical practices contributes to overcoming some of the limitations of non-formal and informal edu-communication, as well as to generating a rhizomatic identization around ICH.
Beyond Information Provision: Analysis of the Roles of Structure and Agency in COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence in Ethnic Minority Communities
Authors: Poduval Shoba , Kamal Atiya , Martin Sam , Islam Amin , Kaviraj Chandrika , Gill Paramjit
Published: November 2023

People from Black and Asian backgrounds are more likely to die from COVID-19 but less likely to be vaccinated, threatening to exacerbate health inequalities already experienced by ethnic minority groups. The literature suggests that mistrust rooted in structural inequality (including socioeconomic position and experience of racism) may be a key barrier to COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Understanding and addressing structural inequality is likely to lead to longer-term impacts than information alone. The aim of this study is to draw on health and sociological theories of structure and agency to inform our understanding of how structural factors influence vaccine confidence. We conducted qualitative interviews and focus groups with 22 people from London and the surrounding areas from December 2021 to March 2022. Fourteen participants were members of the public from ethnic minority backgrounds, and seven were professionals working with the public to address concerns and encourage vaccine uptake. Our findings suggest that people from ethnic minority backgrounds make decisions regarding COVID-19 vaccination based on a combination of how they experience external social structures (including lack of credibility and clarity from political authority, neglect by health services, and structural racism) and internal processes (weighing up COVID-19 vaccine harms and benefits and concerns about vaccine development and deployment). We may be able to support knowledge accumulation through the provision of reliable and accessible information, particularly through primary and community care, but we recommend a number of changes to research, policy and practice that address structural inequalities. These include working with communities to improve ethnicity data collection, increasing funding allocation to health conditions where ethnic minority communities experience poorer outcomes, greater transparency and public engagement in the vaccine development process, and culturally adapted research recruitment processes.
Does Economic Policy Uncertainty Explain Exchange Rate Movements in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS): A Panel ARDL Approach
Authors: Korley Maud , Giouvris Evangelos
Published: November 2023

Research proposes that economic policy uncertainty (EPU) leads to exchange rate fluctuations. Given that African countries experience higher levels of uncertainty in developed/emerging markets, we examine the extent to which domestic and foreign EPU affect exchange rates for a panel of 12 ECOWAS countries covering the period 1996–2018. In order to account for non-stationarity, cross-sectional dependence, and heterogeneity, the paper employs the dynamic heterogeneous panel approach. The ECOWAS has a dual currency arrangement ranging from a common currency union (CFA) to floating exchange rates (Non-CFA). To account for this, this study splits the sample data into CFA and Non-CFA areas. In addition, this study considers the role of the global financial crisis in the exchange rate-EPU nexus. Our results show that domestic EPU has a positive effect on exchange rates in the long run for Non-CFA areas. Different from the existing literature, our results suggest that domestic EPU does not explain exchange rate fluctuations in the short run. For all countries, foreign EPU leads to appreciation in the long run and depreciation in the short run. Interestingly, foreign EPU has a more dominant effect on exchange rate fluctuations in the selected countries than domestic EPU. This may reflect the weak institutional framework in these countries, which allows external fluctuations to have a greater impact. Moreover, this could be attributed to the increase in foreign capital flows during the sample period. Thus, these countries must develop effective policies to effectively absorb these external shocks. Results are robust to different proxies of EPU.
Interaction of Fabry Disease and Diabetes Mellitus: Suboptimal Recruitment of Kidney Protective Factors
Authors: Sanchez-Niño Maria D. , Ceballos Maria I. , Carriazo Sol , Pintor-Chocano Aranzazu , Sanz Ana B. , Saleem Moin A. , Ortiz Alberto
Published: November 2023

Fabry disease is a lysosomal disease characterized by globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) accumulation. It may coexist with diabetes mellitus and both cause potentially lethal kidney end-organ damage. However, there is little information on their interaction with kidney disease. We have addressed the interaction between Fabry disease and diabetes in data mining of human kidney transcriptomics databases and in Fabry (Gla-/-) and wild type mice with or without streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Data mining was consistent with differential expression of genes encoding enzymes from the Gb3 metabolic pathway in human diabetic kidney disease, including upregulation of UGCG, the gene encoding the upstream and rate-limiting enzyme glucosyl ceramide synthase. Diabetic Fabry mice displayed the most severe kidney infiltration by F4/80+ macrophages, and a lower kidney expression of kidney protective genes (Pgc1α and Tfeb) than diabetic wild type mice, without a further increase in kidney fibrosis. Moreover, only diabetic Fabry mice developed kidney insufficiency and these mice with kidney insufficiency had a high expression of Ugcg. In conclusion, we found evidence of interaction between diabetes and Fabry disease that may increase the severity of the kidney phenotype through modulation of the Gb3 synthesis pathway and downregulation of kidney protective genes.
Bleeding and Thrombosis in Multiple Myeloma: Platelets as Key Players during Cell Interactions and Potential Use as Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Kulkarni Anushka , Bazou Despina , Santos-Martinez Maria José
Published: November 2023

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy originated in the bone marrow and characterized by unhindered plasma cell proliferation that results in several clinical manifestations. Although the main role of blood platelets lies in hemostasis and thrombosis, platelets also play a pivotal role in a number of other pathological conditions. Platelets are the less-explored components from the tumor microenvironment in MM. Although some studies have recently revealed that MM cells have the ability to activate platelets even in the premalignant stage, this phenomenon has not been widely investigated in MM. Moreover, thrombocytopenia, along with bleeding, is commonly observed in those patients. In this review, we discuss the hemostatic disturbances observed in MM patients and the dynamic interaction between platelets and myeloma cells, along with present and future potential avenues for the use of platelets for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Mild Oxidative Stress Induced by Sodium Arsenite Reduces Lipocalin-2 Expression Levels in Cortical Glial Cells
Authors: Cho Ye-Jin , Park So-Hyun , Ryu Kwon-Yul
Published: November 2023

Astrocytes and microglia, the most abundant glial cells in the central nervous system, are involved in maintaining homeostasis in the brain microenvironment and in the progression of various neurological disorders. Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) is a small secretory protein that can be transcriptionally upregulated via nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling. It is synthesized and secreted by glial cells, resulting in either the restoration of damaged neural tissues or the induction of neuronal apoptosis in a context-dependent manner. It has recently been reported that when glial cells are under lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory stress, either reduced production or accelerated degradation of LCN2 can alleviate neurotoxicity. However, the regulatory mechanisms of LCN2 in glial cells are not yet fully understood. In this study, we used primary astroglial-enriched cells which produce LCN2 and found that the production of LCN2 could be reduced by sodium arsenite treatment. Surprisingly, the reduced LCN2 production was not due to the suppression of NF-κB signaling. Mild oxidative stress induced by sodium arsenite treatment activated antioxidant responses and downregulated Lcn2 expression without reducing the viability of astroglial-enriched cells. Intriguingly, reduced LCN2 production could not be achieved by simple activation of the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)–Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) pathway in astroglial-enriched cells. Thus, it appears that mild oxidative stress, occurring in an Nrf2-independent manner, is required for the downregulation of Lcn2 expression. Taken together, our findings provide new insights into the regulatory mechanisms of LCN2 and suggest that mild oxidative stress may alter LCN2 homeostasis, even under neuroinflammatory conditions.
Expression of Glial-Cell-Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Family Ligands in Human Intervertebral Discs
Authors: Iwasaki Tatsuya , Akeda Koji , Kawaguchi Koki , Yamada Junichi , Hasegawa Takahiro , Takegami Norihiko , Fujiwara Tatsuhiko , Sudo Akihiro
Published: November 2023

Glial-cell-line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) family ligands (GFLs) contribute to the sensitization of primary afferents and are involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory pain. The purpose of this preliminary study was to examine the expression of other GFLs (neurturin (NRTN), artemin (ARTN), persephin (PSPN)) and receptors in human IVD cells and tissues exhibiting early and advanced stages of degeneration. Human IVD cells were cultured as a monolayer after isolation from the nucleus pulposus (NP) and anulus fibrosus (AF) tissues. The mRNA expression of NRTN, ARTN, PSPN, and their receptors (GFRA2–GFRA4) was quantified using real-time PCR. Protein expression was evaluated using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. The expression of NRTN, ARTN, PSPN, and their co-receptors (GFRA2-GFRA4) was identified in human IVD cells at both mRNA and protein levels. A trend was noted wherein the mRNA expression of ARTN, PSPN, and GFRA2 was upregulated by IL-1β treatment in a dose-dependent manner. The percentages of immunopositive cells in the advanced degenerate stage of ARTN, PSPN, and GFRA2 were significantly higher than those in the early degenerate stage. Their expression was enhanced in advanced tissue degeneration, which suggests that GFLs (ARTN and PSPN) may be involved in the pathogenesis of discogenic pain.
Surgical Site-Released Tissue Is Potent to Generate Bone onto TCP and PCL-TCP Scaffolds In Vitro
Authors: Rehage Emely , Sowislok Andrea , Busch André , Papaeleftheriou Eleftherios , Jansen Melissa , Jäger Marcus
Published: November 2023

There is evidence that surgical site tissue (SSRT) released during orthopedic surgery has a strong mesenchymal regenerative potential. Some data also suggest that this tissue may activate synthetic or natural bone substitute materials and can thus upgrade its osteopromoting properties. In this comparative in vitro study, we investigate the composition of SSRT during total hip replacement (n = 20) harvested using a surgical suction handle. In addition, the osteopromoting effect of the cells isolated from SSRT is elucidated when incubated with porous beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) or 80% medical-grade poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL)/20% TCP composite material. We identified multiple growth factors and cytokines with significantly higher levels of PDGF and VEGF in SSRT compared to peripheral blood. The overall number of MSC was 0.09 ± 0.12‰ per gram of SSRT. A three-lineage specific differentiation was possible in all cases. PCL-TCP cultures showed a higher cell density and cell viability compared to TCP after 6 weeks in vitro. Moreover, PCL-TCP cultures showed a higher osteocalcin expression but no significant differences in osteopontin and collagen I synthesis. We could demonstrate the high regenerative potential from SSRT harvested under vacuum in a PMMA filter device. The in vitro data suggest advantages in cytocompatibility for the PCL-TCP composite compared to TCP alone.
Identification of Reference Genes for Precise Expression Analysis during Germination in Chenopodium quinoa Seeds under Salt Stress
Authors: Contreras Estefanía , Martín-Fernández Lucía , Manaa Arafet , Vicente-Carbajosa Jesús , Iglesias-Fernández Raquel
Published: November 2023

Chenopodium quinoa Willd. (quinoa), a member of the Amaranthaceae family, is an allotetraploid annual plant, endemic to South America. The plant of C. quinoa presents significant ecological plasticity with exceptional adaptability to several environmental stresses, including salinity. The resilience of quinoa to several abiotic stresses, as well as its nutritional attributes, have led to significant shifts in quinoa cultivation worldwide over the past century. This work first defines germination sensu stricto in quinoa where the breakage of the pericarp and the testa is followed by endosperm rupture (ER). Transcriptomic changes in early seed germination stages lead to unstable expression levels in commonly used reference genes that are typically stable in vegetative tissues. Noteworthy, no suitable reference genes have been previously identified specifically for quinoa seed germination under salt stress conditions. This work aims to identify these genes as a prerequisite step for normalizing qPCR data. To this end, germinating seeds from UDEC2 and UDEC4 accessions, with different tolerance to salt, have been analyzed under conditions of absence (0 mM NaCl) and in the presence (250 mM NaCl) of sodium chloride. Based on the relevant literature, six candidate reference genes, Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), Monensin sensitivity1 (MON1), Polypyrimidine tract-binding protein (PTB), Actin-7 (ACT7), Ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme (UBC), and 18S ribosomal RNA (18S), were selected and assessed for stability using the RefFinder Tool encompassing the statistical algorithms geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and ΔCt in the evaluation. The data presented support the suitability of CqACT7 and CqUBC as reference genes for normalizing gene expression during seed germination under salinity stress. These recommended reference genes can be valuable tools for consistent qPCR studies on quinoa seeds.
Copaifera langsdorffii Oleoresin-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Emulgel Improves Cutaneous Healing by Anti-Inflammatory and Re-Epithelialization Mechanisms
Authors: Gushiken Lucas F. S. , Beserra Fernando P. , Hussni Maria F. , Gonzaga Murilo T. , Ribeiro Victor P. , de Souza Patrícia F. , Campos Jacqueline C. L. , Massaro Tais N. C. , Hussni Carlos A. , Takahira Regina K. , Marcato Priscyla D. , Bastos Jairo K. , Pellizzon Cláudia H.
Published: November 2023

The skin is essential to the integrity of the organism. The disruption of this organ promotes a wound, and the organism starts the healing to reconstruct the skin. Copaifera langsdorffii is a tree used in folk medicine to treat skin affections, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In our study, the oleoresin of the plant was associated with nanostructured lipid carriers, aiming to evaluate the healing potential of this formulation and compare the treatment with reference drugs used in wound healing. Male Wistar rats were used to perform the excision wound model, with the macroscopic analysis of wound retraction. Skin samples were used in histological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical analyses. The results showed the wound retraction in the oleoresin-treated group, mediated by α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Biochemical assays revealed the anti-inflammatory mechanism of the oleoresin-treated group, increasing interleukin-10 (IL-10) concentration and decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Histopathological and immunohistochemical results showed the improvement of re-epithelialization and tissue remodeling in the Copaifera langsdorffii group, with an increase in laminin-γ2, a decrease in desmoglein-3 and an increase in collagen remodeling. These findings indicate the wound healing potential of nanostructured lipid carriers associated with Copaifera langsdorffii oleoresin in skin wounds, which can be helpful as a future alternative treatment for skin wounds.
Basic Symbolic Number Skills, but Not Formal Mathematics Performance, Longitudinally Predict Mathematics Anxiety in the First Years of Primary School
Authors: O’Connor Patrick A. , Morsanyi Kinga , McCormack Teresa
Published: November 2023

Mathematical anxiety (MA) and mathematics performance typically correlate negatively in studies of adolescents and adults, but not always amongst young children, with some theorists questioning the relevance of MA to mathematics performance in this age group. Evidence is also limited in relation to the developmental origins of MA and whether MA in young children can be linked to their earlier mathematics performance. To address these questions, the current study investigated whether basic and formal mathematics skills around 4 and 5 years of age were predictive of MA around the age of 7–8. Additionally, we also examined the cross-sectional relationships between MA and mathematics performance in 7–8-year-old children. Specifically, children in our study were assessed in their first (T1; aged 4–5), second (T2; aged 5–6), and fourth years of school (T3; aged 7–8). At T1 and T2, children completed measures of basic numerical skills, IQ, and working memory, as well as curriculum-based mathematics tests. At T3, children completed two self-reported MA questionnaires, together with a curriculum-based mathematics test. The results showed that MA could be reliably measured in a sample of 7–8-year-olds and demonstrated the typical negative correlation between MA and mathematical performance (although the strength of this relationship was dependent on the specific content domain). Importantly, although early formal mathematical skills were unrelated to later MA, there was evidence of a longitudinal relationship between basic early symbolic number skills and later MA, supporting the idea that poorer basic numerical skills relate to the development of MA.
Automated Detection and Tracking of Marine Mammals in the Vicinity of Tidal Turbines Using Multibeam Sonar
Authors: Gillespie Douglas , Hastie Gordon , Montabaranom Jessica , Longden Emma , Rapson Katie , Holoborodko Anhelina , Sparling Carol
Published: November 2023

Understanding how marine animals behave around tidal turbines is essential if we are to quantify how individuals and populations may be affected by the installation of these devices in the coming decades. Our particular interest is in collision risk, and how this may be affected by the fine-scale behaviour of seals and small cetacean species around devices. We report on a study in which multibeam sonar data were collected close to an operational tidal turbine in Scotland continuously over a twelve-month period. The sonars provide high-resolution (a few cm) data over a 120° angle out to a range of 55 m at a rate of 10 frames per second. We describe a system which uses automatic computer algorithms to detect potential targets of interest, verified by human analysts using a sophisticated computer user interface to confirm detections and assign target species. To date, we have identified 359 tracks of marine mammals in the data, as well as several thousand tracks from fish and diving birds. These are currently being parameterised to study how these species react to the moving turbine rotors, and the data are now being used to explore the development of improved automated detection and classification algorithms.
The Evaluation of WaveSAX Power Generation to Support Port Energy Self-Sufficiency
Authors: Bonamano Simone , Peviani Maximo Aurelio , Agate Giordano , Burgio Calogero Giuseppe , Fersini Giorgio , Marcelli Marco
Published: November 2023

Remarkable advancements have been made in wave energy converters, notably the innovative WaveSAX technology—an oscillating water column system conceptually designed for coastal structures. Proven effective in existing installations, particularly at Civitavecchia Port, Italy, where the WaveSAX-1 prototype was tested in 2018 and the WaveSAX-2 was updated in 2021. The device’s power generation capacity was evaluated using a Simulating WAves Nearshore (SWAN) model that simulated 30 years of wave conditions. Validation with radar and Acoustic Doppler Profiler instruments showed excellent performance in wave height simulation. Results revealed higher wave power generation near the harbor breakwater, surpassing offshore levels, especially in central and northern sections. WaveSAX-2, featuring an improved Wells turbine, demonstrated a remarkable 37% increase in average efficiency compared to WaveSAX-1. If a linear WaveSAX array were installed, it could produce 4 GWh annually, satisfying 20% of the port’s energy needs and reducing around 2800 tCO2e/year. Doubling arrays and incorporating triangular modules could significantly enhance sustainability for port operations, offering a promising path toward self-sufficiency and environmental responsibility.
Collagen-Coated Hyperelastic Bone Promotes Osteoblast Adhesion and Proliferation
Authors: Gresita Andrei , Raja Iman , Petcu Eugen , Hadjiargyrou Michael
Published: November 2023

Successfully reconstructing bone and restoring its dynamic function represents a significant challenge for medicine. Critical size defects (CSDs), resulting from trauma, tumor removal, or degenerative conditions, do not naturally heal and often require complex bone grafting. However, these grafts carry risks, such as tissue rejection, infections, and surgical site damage, necessitating the development of alternative treatments. Three-dimensional and four-dimensional printed synthetic biomaterials represent a viable alternative, as they carry low production costs and are highly reproducible. Hyperelastic bone (HB), a biocompatible synthetic polymer consisting of 90% hydroxyapatite and 10% poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid, PLGA), was examined for its potential to support cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation. Specifically, we seeded collagen-coated HB with MG-63 human osteosarcoma cells. Our analysis revealed robust cell adhesion and proliferation over 7 days in vitro, with cells forming uniform monolayers on the external surface of the scaffold. However, no cells were present on the core of the fibers. The cells expressed bone differentiation markers on days 3 and 5. By day 7, the scaffold began to degrade, developing microscopic fissures and fragmentation. In summary, collagen-coated HB scaffolds support cell adhesion and proliferation but exhibit reduced structural support after 7 days in culture. Nevertheless, the intricate 3D architecture holds promise for cellular migration, vascularization, and early osteogenesis.
Study of β-Ga2O3 Ceramics Synthesized under Powerful Electron Beam
Authors: Usseinov Abay B. , Karipbayev Zhakyp T. , Purans Juris , Kakimov Askhat B. , Bakytkyzy Aizat , Zhunusbekov Amangeldy M. , Koketai Temirgali A. , Kozlovskyi Artem L. , Suchikova Yana , Popov Anatoli I.
Published: November 2023

The synthesis of β-Ga2O3 ceramic was achieved using high-energy electron beams for the first time. The irradiation of gallium oxide powder in a copper crucible using a 1.4 MeV electron beam resulted in a monolithic ceramic structure, eliminating powder particles and imperfections. The synthesized β-Ga2O3 ceramic exhibited a close-to-ideal composition of O/Ga in a 3:2 ratio. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed a monoclinic structure (space group C2/m) that matched the reference diagram before and after annealing. Photoluminescence spectra revealed multiple luminescence peaks at blue (~2.7 eV) and UV (3.3, 3.4, 3.8 eV) wavelengths for the synthesized ceramic and commercial crystals. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the bonding modes in the synthesized ceramic. The electron beam-assisted method offers a rapid and cost-effective approach for β-Ga2O3 ceramic production without requiring additional equipment or complex manipulations. This method holds promise for fabricating refractory ceramics with high melting points, both doped and undoped.
Effect of Cobalt and Chromium Content on Microstructure and Properties of WC-Co-Cr Coatings Prepared by High-Velocity Oxy-Fuel Spraying
Authors: Wang Qun , Zhong Yuan , Li Haifeng , Wang Shaoyi , Liu Jianwu , Wang Yiwei , Ramachandran Chidambaram Seshadri
Published: November 2023

To explore the Co/Cr ratio impact on the high-velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF)-sprayed WC-Co-Cr coatings microstructure and performances, three kinds of WC-Co-Cr coatings, namely WC-4Co-10Cr, WC-7Co-7Cr, and WC-10Co-4Cr, were prepared by using a high-velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) spraying process. The three coatings’ phase composition, microstructure, basic mechanical properties, abrasive wear, and corrosion resistance were investigated. The results show that all three WC-Co-Cr coatings comprise the main phase WC, minor W2C, and amorphous W-Co-Cr phase, besides the WC-4Co-10Cr coating containing a small amount of CrxCy phase. In addition, WC-7Co-7Cr coating exhibited the highest hardness and abrasive wear resistance, followed by WC-10Co-4Cr and WC-4Co-10Cr coatings. The corrosion resistance as a hierarchy was found to be WC-10Co-4Cr > WC-7Co-7Cr > WC-4Co-10Cr.
Prediction of Flux and Rejection Coefficients in the Removal of Emerging Pollutants Using a Nanofiltration Membrane
Authors: Hidalgo Asunción M. , Gómez María , Murcia María D. , Gómez Elisa , León Gerardo , Alfaro Irene
Published: November 2023

The removal of three emerging pollutants: carbamazepine, ketoprofen, and bisphenol A, has been studied using the nanofiltration flat sheet membrane NF99HF. The removal efficiencies of the membrane have been evaluated by two system characteristic parameters: permeate flux and rejection coefficient. The influence of two operating variables has been analysed: operating pressure and feed concentration. Before and after the tests with emerging pollutants, the membrane has been characterized by determining its water permeability coefficient and its magnesium chloride rejection coefficient to find out if the removal of emerging pollutants causes membrane fouling. The results show that operating pressure has significant separation effects, obtaining the highest efficiencies at a pressure of 20 bar for pollutant concentrations between 5 and 25 mg/L. Moreover, rejection of ketoprofen was found to be dependent on electrostatic repulsion, while rejection of bisphenol A was significantly affected by adsorption onto the membrane. Finally, the experimental data have been fitted to the solution diffusion model and to the simplified model of Spiegler-Kedem-Katchalsky to predict the behaviour of the nanofiltration membrane in the removal of the tested pollutants. Good agreement between the experimental and predicted carbamazepine and bisphenol A data has been obtained with each model, respectively.
Electrospinning Microencapsulation of Lactobacillus fermentum K73 Using Gelatin as the Main Component of a Food-Grade Matrix
Authors: Serrano-Delgado Arjana , Quintanilla-Carvajal María Ximena
Published: November 2023

This work aimed to establish the conditions that improve the viability of Lactobacillus fermentum K73 during and after the electrospinning process. A mixture of experimental designs were performed to select the formulation (gelatin and bacterial culture) that improves the probiotic viability after blending and under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. A Box–Behnken design was performed to improve the encapsulation yield and survival during the electrospinning process. For the Box–Behnken design, the factors were soy lecithin and bacteria culture concentration at the blend and collector distance for electrospinning. It was hypothesized that soy lecithin improved the electrospinnability, acting as a surfactant in the mixture and allowing lower voltage to be used during the process. The selected volume ratio of the gelatin (25%)/bacterial culture mixture was 0.66/0.34. The physicochemical parameters of the selected blend were in the recommended range for electrospinning. The conditions that improved the encapsulation yield and survival during electrospinning were 200 g/L of bacterial culture, 2.5% (w/v) soy lecithin, and 7 cm collector distance. The experimental encapsulation yield and survival was 80.7%, with an experimental error of 7.2%. SEM micrographs showed the formation of fibers with gelatin/bacterial culture beads. Encapsulation improved the viability of the probiotic under simulated gastrointestinal conditions compared to free cells.
Sedimentary Facies, Paleogeography, and Depositional Models of the Middle–Late Permian in the Sichuan Basin, Southwest China
Authors: Deng Mo , Zhao Guowei , Lin Xiaobing , Chen Chunyu , Li Longlong , Liang Qingshao
Published: November 2023

This study focuses on the analysis of the sedimentary facies of the Middle–Late Permian, including the Qixia, Maokou, Wujiaoping/Longtan, and Changxing/Dalong Formations, in the Sichuan Basin, southwest China. Integrating drilling data and field outcrop data, various sedimentary facies indicators were employed to define eight sedimentary facies types in the Sichuan Basin during the Middle–Late Permian, namely, mixed tidal flat, tidal flat, restricted platform, open platform, platform margin, slope, basin, and volcanic facies. Detailed facies analysis was conducted on selected well logs, and sedimentary facies distribution maps were compiled for different time intervals, establishing depositional models. During the Qixia to Maokou stages, an extensive open platform was developed in the Sichuan Basin, accompanied by shallow intra-platform shoals. Towards the west along the Dayi–Ya’an line, platform margins were developed, followed by slope facies and basin facies in a northwest direction. During the Changxing stage, the Kaijiang–Liangping fault block subsided, forming the “Kaijiang-Liangping” paleochannel, which controls reef–shoal deposition in the region. This study provides comprehensive insights into the sedimentary facies characteristics and depositional environments of the Middle–Late Permian in the Sichuan Basin, contributing to the understanding of the regional sedimentary history and geological evolution.
Fluid-Dependent Single-Frequency Bioelectrical Impedance Fat Mass Estimates Compared to Digital Imaging and Dual X-ray Absorptiometry
Authors: Nescolarde Lexa , Orlandi Carmine , Farina Gian Luca , Gori Niccolo’ , Lukaski Henry
Published: November 2023

The need for a practical method for routine determination of body fat has progressed from body mass index (BMI) to bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and smartphone two-dimensional imaging. We determined agreement in fat mass (FM) estimated with 50 kHz BIA and smartphone single lateral standing digital image (SLSDI) compared to dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in 188 healthy adults (69 females and 119 males). BIA underestimated (p < 0.0001) FM, whereas SLSDI FM estimates were not different from DXA values. Based on limited observations that BIA overestimated fat-free mass (FFM) in obese adults, we tested the hypothesis that expansion of the extracellular water (ECW), expressed as ECW to intracellular water (ECW/ICW), results in underestimation of BIA-dependent FM. Using a general criterion of BMI > 25 kg/m2, 54 male rugby players, compared to 40 male non-rugby players, had greater (p < 0.001) BMI and FFM but less (p < 0.001) FM and ECW/ICW. BIA underestimated (p < 0.001) FM in the non-rugby men, but SLSDI and DXA FM estimates were not different in both groups. This finding is consistent with the expansion of ECW in individuals with excess body fat due to increased adipose tissue mass and its water content. Unlike SLSDI, 50 kHz BIA predictions of FM are affected by an increased ECW/ICW associated with greater adipose tissue. These findings demonstrate the validity, practicality, and convenience of smartphone SLSDI to estimate FM, seemingly not influenced by variable hydration states, for healthcare providers in clinical and field settings.
Lutein/Zeaxanthin Isomers and Quercetagetin Combination Safeguards the Retina from Photo-Oxidative Damage by Modulating Neuroplasticity Markers and the Nrf2 Pathway
Authors: Sahin Emre , Orhan Cemal , Sahin Nurhan , Padigaru Muralidhara , Morde Abhijeet , Lal Mohan , Dhavan Nanasaheb , Erten Fusun , Bilgic Ahmet Alp , Ozercan Ibrahim Hanifi , Sahin Kazim
Published: November 2023

Exposure to light-emitting diode (LED) light is a primary cause of retinal damage, resulting in vision loss. Several plant-derived substances, such as lutein and quercetagetin (QCG), show promise in supporting eye health. In this study, the impact of lutein/zeaxanthin (L/Z, Lutemax 2020) and QCG were evaluated individually and together in a rat model of LED-induced retinal damage. A total of 63 Wistar rats were allocated into nine groups (n = 7). For 28 days, the rats received L/Z (10 or 20 mg/kg BW), quercetin (QC, 20 mg/kg BW), QCG (10 or 20 mg/kg BW), or a mixture of different lutein and QCG dosages, after which they were exposed to LED light for 48 h. LED exposure led to a spike in serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and inflammatory cytokines, as well as an increase in retinal NF-κB, ICAM, GFAP, and MCP-1 levels (p < 0.0001 for all). It also reduced serum antioxidant enzyme activities and retinal Nrf2, HO-1, GAP43, NCAM, and outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness (p < 0.0001 for all). However, administering L/Z and QCG, particularly a 1:1 combination of L/Z and QCG at 20 mg/kg, effectively reversed these changes. The treatment suppressed NF-κB, ICAM, GFAP, and MCP-1 while enhancing Nrf2, HO-1, GAP43, and NCAM and preventing ONL thickness reduction in LED-induced retinal damage rats. In conclusion, while LED light exposure caused retinal damage, treatment with L/Z, QC, and QCG, particularly a combined L/Z and QCG regimen, exhibited protective effects on the retina. This is possibly due to the modulation of neuroplasticity markers and nuclear transcription factors in the rats’ retinal cells.
Optimization of Automated Radiosynthesis of Gallium-68-Labeled PSMA11 with Two [68Ge]Ge/[68Ga]Ga Generators: Fractional Elution or Prepurification?
Authors: Durieux Flore , Dekyndt Bérengère , Legrand Jean-François , Rogeau Antoine , Malek Emmanuel , Semah Franck , Odou Pascal
Published: November 2023

Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in men. An imaging technique for its diagnosis is [68Ga]-prostate-specific membrane antigen ([68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11) positron emission tomography (PET). To address the increasing demand for [68Ga]-labeled peptides and reduce the cost of radiosynthesis, it is therefore necessary to optimize the elution process of [68Ge]Ge/[68Ga]Ga generators. This study aims to identify the most effective approach for optimizing radiosynthesis using double elution in parallel of two [68Ge]Ge/[68Ga]Ga generators. Two methods have been tested: one using prepurification, and the other using fractionated elution. Five synthesis sequences were conducted using each method. The mean labeling yields for double elution with prepurification were 45.8 ± 29.4 (mean ± standard deviation) and none met the required criteria. The mean labeling yields for the fractionated double elution were 97.5 ± 1.9 (mean ± standard deviation) meeting the criteria, significantly superior to the prepurification method (p = 0.012), and similar to those of simple elution. This study showed that fractionated double elution from [68Ge]Ge/[68Ga]Ga generators produced a significantly higher labeling yield than double elution with prepurification, resulting in a larger activity recovered via radiosynthesis, thereby allowing more diagnostic tests to be performed.
Special Issue of “Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Molecular Modeling of Enzyme Inhibitors”
Authors: Mikstacka Renata , Dutkiewicz Zbigniew , Wierzchowski Marcin
Published: November 2023

Enzymes are essential macromolecules responsible for biochemical processes occurring in living organisms [...]
Physical Characteristics and Controlling Factors of Coal Gas Reservoir in Pingdingshan No. 10 Coal Mine
Authors: Zhou Dejie , Wang Juan , Wang Baoyu , Gao Di , Zhao Junjie
Published: November 2023

The physical properties of coal reservoirs are the main restrictions to exploration and development of Coalbed methane (CBM). The study of the physical characteristics of coal reservoirs and their controlling factors is of great significance to the safe and efficient development and utilization of CBM resources in the mining area. The Pingdingshan No. 10 coal mine was chosen for this study because of its better gas production effect at the test wells. The reservoir properties of the main coal seams of the No. 10 coal mine were tested and analyzed to comprehensively evaluate the reservoir properties, and the physical characteristics and controlling factors of the coal reservoir in Pingdingshan No. 10 coal mine were studied. The results indicate the following: (1) The gas content and methane purity of the No. 4 coal seam were significantly higher than the No. 2 seam, and therefore they have better development potential than the No. 2 seam. (2) The average adsorption time of the No. 2 coal seam was less than that of the No. 4 seam, making it easier to reach the peak production capacity of CBM wells in the short term, but was not conducive to long-term stable production of CBM. The Langmuir volume of the No. 2 coal seam samples was significantly greater than for the No. 4 coal seam; however, the No. 4 coal seam contains about three times the amount of gas in the No. 2 seam. (3) All three coal seams have high porosity, which was favorable for large amounts of CBM adsorption and storage. Micropores predominated; transitional pores were less frequent, and a few mesopores occurred; macropores were the least common. Samples from the No. 4 seam contained the highest proportion of micropores. (4) Organic pores were common in all the coal samples, with pore diameters not more than 30 µm, mainly concentrated between 50.5 and 1000 nm. Microfractures with apertures less than 70 nm were relatively frequent, mainly in the 50–65 nm range. A large number of the nanoscale microfractures were curved or jagged. (5) Fractures in the No. 2 and No. 4 coal seam samples with widths of 50 nm to 20 µm were more developed, and many were filled with kaolinite, quartz, and other minerals. (6) The samples contained mostly layered silicate minerals (kaolinite), with hard granular minerals (quartz) next, and a very small quantity of iron-type minerals, such as siderite and pyrite in dendritic form. The results of this study can provide a reference basis for the large-scale development and utilization of subsequent CBM wells.
Reservoir Petrofacies Predicted Using Logs Data: A Study of Shale Oil from Seven Members of the Upper Triassic Yanchang Formation, Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Meng Kun , Wang Ming , Zhang Shaohua , Xu Pengye , Ji Yao , Meng Chaoyang , Zhan Jie , Yu Hongyan
Published: November 2023

The identification and prediction of petrofacies plays a crucial role in the study of shale oil and gas “sweet spots”. However, the petrofacies identified through core and core test data are not available for all wells. Therefore, it is essential to establish a petrofacies identification model using conventional well logging data. In this study, we determined the petrofacies of shale oil reservoirs in the Upper Triassic Yanchang Formation, Ordos Basin, China, based on scanning electron microscopy, core porosity and total organic carbon (TOC), and brittleness index calculations from X-ray diffraction (XRD) experiments conducted on seven members of the formation. Furthermore, we compared the interpreted logs with the raw well logs data clustered into electrofacies in order to assess their compliance with the petrofacies, using the Multi-Resolution Graph-Based Clustering (MRGC) method. Through an analysis of pore structure type, core porosity, TOC, and brittleness index, we identified four types of lithofacies with varying reservoir quality: PF A > PF B > PF C > PF D. The compliance of the clustered electrofacies with the petrofacies obtained from the interpreted logs was found to be 85.42%. However, the compliance between the clustered electrofacies and the petrofacies obtained from the raw well logs was only 47.92%. Hence, the interpreted logs exhibit a stronger correlation with petrofacies characterization, and their utilization as input data is more beneficial in accurately predicting petrofacies through machine learning algorithms.