bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Frequency of Mediastinal Lymph Node Calcification in Sarcoidosis Patients and the Influencing Factors
Authors: Pınar Deniz Pelin , Duru Çetinkaya Pelin , Mehdiyeva Saida , Hanta İsmail
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: This study investigates the prevalence of calcification in mediastinal lymph nodes among sarcoidosis patients and the influencing factors. Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic inflammatory disease characterized by non-caseating epithelioid granulomas. Bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy (LAP) is the most common radiographic finding, with studies showing a correlation between the frequency of lymph node calcification and disease duration, with a frequency of 3% relating to a duration of 5 years and a frequency of 20% relating to one of 10 years. Materials and Methods: This study involved fifty-seven patients diagnosed with sarcoidosis at our chest disease outpatient clinic from January 2020 to September 2022. We examined patient records to determine demographics, radiological findings, and respiratory function parameters. Results: The mean age of patients was 55.07 ± 13.53 (21–90). We identified eighty percent of patients with stage 2 sarcoidosis. Hilar lymph node calcification was observed in 13 cases (22.8%). Among the 13 cases, punctate calcification was detected in 2 (15.4%), while diffuse calcification was observed in 11 (84.6%). The mean duration of sarcoidosis diagnosis in patients was 4.1 ± 3.2 years (range: 1–14 years). Within the first 5 years after diagnosis, calcification in lymph nodes was detected in 18.6% of cases, while of patients diagnosed more than 5 years ago, 35.71% showed lymph node calcification. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that mediastinal lymph node calcification is more common than previously reported, and integrating clinical evaluation and patient history in cases with bilateral hilar LAP can help to avoid unnecessary invasive and costly procedures.
Accessibility and Quality of Palliative Care—Experience in Primary Health Care
Authors: Reigas Viljaras , Šukienė Ingrida
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: Palliative care is a very important part of medicine, aimed at ensuring an improvement in quality of life and a reduction in distressing symptoms in patients with serious, incurable, progressive diseases. The issues of the accessibility and quality of these services should be a focus for health policymakers and researchers, although it is acknowledged that a significant portion of the public has not heard about this service. For this reason, it is important to investigate the experience of the accessibility and quality of palliative care services in primary healthcare facilities. Materials and Methods: A quantitative study was conducted in institutions providing outpatient and inpatient palliative care services. A total of 784 patients and 219 family members participated in the study. Participants expressed their opinions through a questionnaire containing 24 statements, to which they responded by indicating their level of agreement on a Likert scale. The collected data were analyzed using statistical analysis software. Results: Palliative care services are widely available in large cities, but their accessibility is very limited in small towns and rural areas. Patients and their families are not familiar with the concept of palliative care, often equating it with the provision of treatment and nursing services, and they see the support of clergy as unnecessary. Although patients and their families rate the quality of the services received positively, they note shortcomings related to communication among staff. Conclusions: Palliative care services are provided within the primary healthcare system by specialists with qualifications regulated by legislation; however, patients do not see the need to receive assistance from clergy members. Based on the study results, it can be concluded that in Lithuania, the accessibility of palliative care is ensured in larger cities but is insufficient in smaller towns and rural areas. Patients tend to rate indicators reflecting the quality of palliative care services positively; however, they are not convinced that these services improve their quality of life.
Effects of a Serratus Anterior Plane Block After Video-Assisted Lung Wedge Resection: A Single-Center, Prospective, and Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lee Seokjin , Sung Tae-Yun , Cho Choon-Kyu , Lee Gyuwon , Kwon Woojin
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is associated with less postoperative pain than traditional open thoracotomy. However, trocar and chest tube placement may damage the intercostal nerves, causing significant discomfort. An ultrasound-guided serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) is a promising mode of pain management; this reduces the need for opioids and the associated side-effects. This study evaluated whether SAPB, compared to intravenous analgesia alone, reduces opioid consumption after thoracoscopic lung wedge resection. Materials and Methods: In total, 22 patients undergoing VATS lung wedge resections were randomized into two groups (SAPB and control): both received intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), and one group received additional SAPB. The primary outcome was the cumulative intravenous fentanyl consumption at 8 h postoperatively. The visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores and the incidence of postoperative complications were assessed over 48 h post surgery. Results: Fentanyl consumption by 8 h post surgery was significantly lower in the SAPB group than in the control group (183 ± 107 μg vs. 347 ± 202 μg, p = 0.035). Although the VAS scores decreased with time in both groups, the differences were not statistically significant. The SAPB group required fewer opioids by 48 h. No significant between-group differences were observed in postoperative complications, including nausea and vomiting. Conclusions: SAPB effectively reduced opioid consumption after VATS lung wedge resection. SABP may serve as a valuable component of multimodal pain management.
Credible Uncertainties for Natural Gas Properties Calculated from Normalised Natural Gas Composition Data
Authors: van der Veen Adriaan M. H.
Published: December 2024

The evaluation of measurement uncertainty of natural gas properties calculated from composition data are an essential aspect of fiscal metering in the trade of natural gas. For conformity assessment, and in gas allocation, it is essential to have a reliable value for the uncertainty. This need is also reflected in, e.g., ISO 6976, the standard for computing natural gas properties, which follows the requirements of the “Guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement” much more closely. Normalised compositions and their associated standard uncertainties do not suffice for this purpose. A novel algorithm is provided to recover these correlations from the normalised fractions and associated standard uncertainties, enabling the industry work with the data already stored in their repositories. The standard uncertainties are reproduced within 2%, which is acceptable for uncertainty calculations. The correlation coefficients obtained from the recovery algorithm agree with the ones obtained by normalisation.
Tilted-Mode All-Optical Diffractive Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Song Mingzhu , Zhuang Xuhui , Rong Lu , Wang Junsheng
Published: December 2024

Diffractive deep neural networks (D2NNs) typically adopt a densely cascaded arrangement of diffractive masks, leading to multiple reflections of diffracted light between adjacent masks, thereby affecting the network’s inference capability. It is challenging to fully simulate this multiple-reflection phenomenon. To eliminate this phenomenon, we designed tilted-mode all-optical diffractive deep neural networks (T-D2NNs) and proposed a theoretical model for diffraction propagation in the tilted mode. Simulation results indicate that T-D2NNs address the performance degradation caused by interlayer reflections in D2NNs constructed with high-index diffractive masks. In classification tasks, T-D2NNs achieve better classification results compared to D2NNs that consider interlayer reflections.
Cross-Hole Full-Waveform Inversion—A New Approach for Imaging Quartz Vein-Hosted Gold Deposits
Authors: Bell James B. , Bell Rebecca E. , Warner Michael
Published: December 2024

To enhance the efficiency of mine planning, mining companies wish to understand the structure and extent of ore-bearing rocks as well as possible. Conventional seismic reflection surveys are not well suited for this purpose as they provide an image containing only the location of reflectors, and do not provide physical property information to discriminate between ore and gangue material. Full-waveform inversion (FWI) is a powerful inversion technique, which is able to recover the physical properties of the subsurface at a far greater spatial resolution and accuracy than conventional seismic methods. In this study, we synthetically examined the feasibility of using FWI to image quartz vein-hosted gold deposits. We utilised the Curraghinalt gold deposit in Northern Ireland to parameterise our models, where mineralisation is bound entirely to thin (1–3 m) and steeply dipping (>45°) quartz sulphide veins. Firstly, we demonstrated that a conventional surface seismic reflection survey geometry alongside FWI is infeasible for imaging quartz vein-hosted gold deposits. Secondly, we explored a cross-hole seismic survey geometry consisting of sources and receivers placed down vertical boreholes. This cross-hole survey geometry is capable of generating synthetic datasets such that FWI can recover the position of the veins in space accurate to within 0.5 m relative to their true positions, and recover their physical properties with an accuracy greater than 90%, beginning from an entirely homogeneous starting model. We conclude it is essential the source and receiver boreholes be positioned such that both transmitted and reflected arrivals are present in the datasets, otherwise FWI will fail to accurately recover the position and physical properties of the veins. This opens a new avenue for FWI to play a major role in the planning stages and development of gold mines around the world.
Tuning of Water Vapor Permeability in 2D Nanocarbon-Based Polypropylene Composite Membranes
Authors: Visvini Glykeria A. , Mathioudakis Georgios N. , Soto Beobide Amaia , Voyiatzis George A.
Published: December 2024

This work focuses on the incorporation of 2D carbon nanomaterials, such as graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), into polypropylene (PP) via melt mixing. The addition of these 2D carbon nanostructured networks offers a novel approach to enhancing/controlling the water vapor permeable capabilities of PP composite membranes, widely used in industrial applications, such as technical (building roof membranes) or medical (surgical gowns) textiles. The study investigates how the dispersion and concentration of these graphene nanomaterials within the PP matrix influence the microstructure and water vapor permeability (WVP) performance. The WVP measurements were conducted via the “wet” cup method. The presence of either GO, rGO or GNPs in the new polyolefin composite membranes revealed 6- to 7-fold enhanced WVP values compared to pristine PP. This improvement is attributed to the nanoindentations created at the interface of the carbon nanoinclusions with the polymer matrix in the form of nanopores that facilitate water vapor diffusion. In the particular case of GO and rGO, residual oxidative groups might contribute to the WVP as well. This is the first study to compare GO, rGO and even GNP inclusions under identical conditions, providing deeper insights into the mechanisms driving the observed improvements in WVP performance.
Salvia miltiorrhiza Root Extract for Men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Shin Dongho , Moon Hyong Woo , Bae Woong Jin , Ha U-Syn , Park Young Ho , Lee Eun Joo , Moon Du Geon , Kim Sae Woong
Published: December 2024

Background: The prevalence of urological diseases increases with age, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) are the most common problem. Natural compounds with minimal side effects for the improvement in LUTSs are of ongoing interest. Salvia miltiorrhiza root extract (SAGX) has shown potential in preclinical studies for its effects on LUTSs. Objectives: This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SAGX in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) over a 12-week period. Methods: A total of 136 subjects were randomized to receive either 400 mg or 800 mg of SAGX or a placebo daily, orally. The primary outcome was the change in the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Secondary outcomes included changes in prostate-specific antigen (PSA), testosterone levels, urinary flow rate, residual urine volume, and erectile function as measured by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Results: Both SAGX intake groups showed statistically significant improvements in total IPSS scores and several secondary outcomes compared with the placebo group. Notable improvements were observed in symptoms of incomplete emptying, frequency, intermittency, weak stream, urgency, nocturia, and quality of life scores. Erectile function, as assessed by the IIEF, also significantly improved, especially in the 400 mg SAGX intake group. No significant differences were found in PSA levels or testosterone levels. No serious adverse events leading to discontinuation of the study drug were observed in the SAGX groups. Conclusions: With fewer side effects than conventional treatments, SAGX is effective and safe in improving symptoms of lower urinary tract symptoms and enhancing erectile function in men.
Lifestyle Factors Associated with Children’s and Adolescents’ Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet Living in Mediterranean Countries: The DELICIOUS Project
Authors: Rosi Alice , Scazzina Francesca , Giampieri Francesca , Álvarez-Córdova Ludwig , Abdelkarim Osama , Ammar Achraf , Aly Mohamed , Frias-Toral Evelyn , Pons Juancho , Vázquez-Araújo Laura , Rodríguez Velasco Carmen Lili , Brito Ballester Julién , Monasta Lorenzo , Mata Ana , Chacón Adrián , Busó Pablo , Grosso Giuseppe
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives. Traditional dietary patterns are being abandoned in Mediterranean countries, especially among younger generations. This study aimed to investigate the potential lifestyle determinants that can increase adherence to the Mediterranean diet in children and adolescents. Methods. This study is a cross-sectional analysis of data from five Mediterranean countries (Italy, Spain, Portugal, Egypt, and Lebanon) within the context of the EU-funded project DELICIOUS (UnDErstanding consumer food choices & promotion of healthy and sustainable Mediterranean Diet and LIfestyle in Children and adolescents through behavIOUral change actionS). This study comprised information on 2011 children and adolescents aged 6–17 years old collected during 2023. The main background characteristics of both children and parents, including age, sex, education, and family situation, were collected. Children’s eating (i.e., breakfast, place of eating, etc.) and lifestyle habits (i.e., physical activity level, sleep, and screen time) were also investigated. The level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using the KIDMED index. Logistic regression analyses were performed to test for likelihood of higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Results. Major determinants of higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet were younger age, higher physical activity level, adequate sleep duration, and, among dietary habits, having breakfast and eating with family members and at school. Parents’ younger age and higher education were also determinants of higher adherence. Multivariate adjusted analyses showed that an overall healthier lifestyle and parents’ education were the factors independently associated with higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Conclusions. Higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet in children and adolescents living in the Mediterranean area is part of an overall healthy lifestyle possibly depending on parents’ cultural background.
Study Protocol for a Prospective, Unicentric, Double-Blind, Randomized, and Placebo-Controlled Trial on the Efficacy of a Low-Histamine Diet and DAO Enzyme Supplementation in Patients with Histamine Intolerance
Authors: Duelo Adriana , Sánchez-Pérez Sònia , Ruiz-Leon Ana , Casanovas-Garriga Francesc , Pellicer-Roca Salvador , Iduriaga-Platero Irache , Costa-Catala Judit , Veciana-Nogués M. , Fernández-Solà Joaquim , Muñoz-Cano Rosa , Bartra Joan , Combalia Andrea , Comas-Basté Oriol , Casas Rosa , Latorre-Moratalla M. , Estruch Ramon , Vidal-Carou M.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Histamine intolerance is primarily caused by a deficiency in the diamine oxidase (DAO) enzyme at the intestinal level. The reduced histamine degradation in the gut leads to its accumulation in plasma, thereby causing multiple clinical manifestations, such as urticaria, diarrhea, headache, dyspnea, or tachycardia, among others. The dietary management of this food intolerance consists of the follow-up of a low-histamine diet, often combined with DAO supplementation. To date, around twenty studies have investigated the effectiveness of these dietary strategies in reducing the frequency and/or intensity of symptoms, with promising results. However, the limitations of these studies (small patient cohort, lack of control group, and short dietary intervention periods) highlight the need for more ambitiously designed research. Therefore, the main objective of this prospective, unicentric, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled trial is to evaluate the efficacy of a low-histamine diet and/or DAO supplementation over a three-month period in improving symptoms of histamine intolerance. Additionally, the impacts of these dietary strategies on the intestinal microbiota composition, urinary profile of histamine metabolites, serum DAO activity, and plasma histamine levels will be assessed throughout the intervention. Methods: The trial will enroll 400 patients who will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: the intervention group, which will follow a low-histamine diet, or the control group, which will maintain their habitual dietary habits. Within each of these groups, participants will be further divided into four subgroups to receive either exogenous DAO enzyme supplementation (from porcine or plant sources, with the latter administered at two different dosages) or a placebo. Therefore, a total of eight distinct intervention groups will be considered. The comparison of these groups will allow the evaluation of the individual effects of the low-histamine diet or DAO enzyme supplementation, as well as their possible synergistic effect. Results: The results of this study should help to improve dietary recommendations for histamine-intolerant patients and ultimately enhance their quality of life.
Ivermectin Strengthens Paclitaxel Effectiveness in High-Grade Serous Carcinoma in 3D Cell Cultures
Authors: Nunes Mariana , Ricardo Sara
Published: December 2024

Background: Chemoresistance is a major obstacle in high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) treatment. Although many patients initially respond to chemotherapy, the majority of them relapse due to Carboplatin and Paclitaxel resistance. Drug repurposing has surfaced as a potentially effective strategy that works synergically with standard chemotherapy to bypass chemoresistance. In a prior study, using 2D cultures and two HGSC chemoresistant cell lines, it was demonstrated that combining Carboplatin or Paclitaxel with Pitavastatin or Ivermectin resulted in the most notable synergy. Acknowledging that 2D culture systems are limited in reflecting the tumor architecture, 3D cultures were generated to provide insights on treatment efficacy tests in more complex models. Objectives: We aimed to investigate whether combining Carboplatin or Paclitaxel with Pitavastatin or Ivermectin offers therapeutic benefits in a Cultrex-based 3D model. Methods: Here, the cytotoxicity of Carboplatin and Paclitaxel, both alone and in combination with Pitavastatin or Ivermectin, were analyzed on two chemoresistant tumor cell lines, OVCAR8 and OVCAR8 PTX R C, in 3D cultures. Cellular viability was assessed using CellTiter-Glo® Luminescent assays. Also, it explored synergistic interactions using zero interaction potency, Loewe, Bliss independence, and High-single agent reference models. Results: Our research indicates combining chemotherapeutic drugs with Pitavastatin or Ivermectin yields significantly more cytotoxic effects than chemotherapy alone. For all the combinations tested, at least one model indicated an additive effect; however, only the combination of Paclitaxel and Ivermectin consistently demonstrated an additive effect across all chemoresistant cell lines cultured in 3D models, as well as in all four synergy reference models used to assess drug interactions. Conclusions: Combining Paclitaxel with Ivermectin has the highest cytotoxic and the strongest additive effect for both chemoresistant cell lines compared to Paclitaxel alone.
Enhancing Patient-Centric Drug Development: Coupling Hot Melt Extrusion with Fused Deposition Modeling and Pressure-Assisted Microsyringe Additive Manufacturing Platforms with Quality by Design
Authors: Nyavanandi Dinesh , Mandati Preethi , Vidiyala Nithin , Parupathi Prashanth , Kolimi Praveen , Mamidi Hemanth Kumar
Published: December 2024

In recent years, with the increasing patient population, the need for complex and patient-centric medications has increased enormously. Traditional manufacturing techniques such as direct blending, high shear granulation, and dry granulation can be used to develop simple solid oral medications. However, it is well known that “one size fits all” is not true for pharmaceutical medicines. Depending on the age, sex, and disease state, each patient might need a different dose, combination of medicines, and drug release pattern from the medications. By employing traditional practices, developing patient-centric medications remains challenging and unaddressed. Over the last few years, much research has been conducted exploring various additive manufacturing techniques for developing on-demand, complex, and patient-centric medications. Among all the techniques, nozzle-based additive manufacturing platforms such as pressure-assisted microsyringe (PAM) and fused deposition modeling (FDM) have been investigated thoroughly to develop various medications. Both nozzle-based techniques involve the application of thermal energy. However, PAM can also be operated under ambient conditions to process semi-solid materials. Nozzle-based techniques can also be paired with the hot melt extrusion (HME) process for establishing a continuous manufacturing platform by employing various in-line process analytical technology (PAT) tools for monitoring critical process parameters (CPPs) and critical material attributes (CMAs) for delivering safe, efficacious, and quality medications to the patient population without compromising critical quality attributes (CQAs). This review covers an in-depth discussion of various critical parameters and their influence on product quality, along with a note on the continuous manufacturing process, quality by design, and future perspectives.
Correction: Rehman et al. Fabrication, In Vitro and In Vivo Assessment of Eucalyptol-Loaded Nanoemulgel as a Novel Paradigm for Wound Healing. Pharmaceutics 2022, 14, 1971
Authors: Rehman Anis , Iqbal Muhammad , Khan Barkat A. , Khan Muhammad Khalid , Huwaimel Bader , Alshehri Sameer , Alamri Ali H. , Alzhrani Rami M. , Bukhary Deena M. , Safhi Awaji Y. , Hosny Khaled M.
Published: December 2024

In the original publication, there was a mistake in Figure 4 as published [...]
Role of Quercetin in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Mustafa Nor Hidayah , Siti Hawa Nordin , Kamisah Yusof
Published: December 2024

Diabetic cardiomyopathy is a significant and severe complication of diabetes that affects a large portion of the global population, with its prevalence continuing to rise. Secondary metabolites, including quercetin, have shown promising effects in mitigating the progression of diabetic cardiomyopathy by targeting multiple pathological mechanisms, including impaired insulin signaling, glucotoxicity, lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, apoptosis, autophagy, mitochondrial dysfunction, cardiac stiffness, and disrupted calcium handling. Addressing these mechanisms is crucial to prevent left ventricular diastolic and systolic dysfunction in advanced stages of diabetic heart disease. Scientific evidence has highlighted the cardioprotective properties of quercetin at both the myocardial and cellular/molecular levels in diabetic models. Therefore, this review aims to present a comprehensive overview of the proposed mechanisms underlying quercetin’s beneficial effects, providing valuable insights that could inform future drug discovery efforts specific to diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Correction: Alharbi et al. Optical, Thermal, and Electrical Characterization of Polyvinyl Pyrrolidone/Carboxymethyl Cellulose Blend Scattered by Tungsten-Trioxide Nanoparticles. Polymers 2023, 15, 1223
Authors: Alharbi Khadijah H. , Alharbi Walaa , El-Morsy M. A. , Farea M. O. , Menazea A. A.
Published: December 2024

In the original publication [...]
Near-Infrared Responsive Composites of Poly-3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene with Fullerene Derivatives
Authors: Gribkova Oxana , Kabanova Varvara , Sayarov Ildar , Nekrasov Alexander , Tameev Alexey
Published: December 2024

Electrochemical polymerization of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene in the presence of water-soluble fullerene derivatives was investigated. The electronic structure, morphology, spectroelectrochemical, electrochemical properties and near-IR photoconductivity of composite films of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) with fullerenes were studied for the first time. It was shown that fullerene with hydroxyl groups creates favorable conditions for the formation of PEDOT chains and more effectively compensates for the positive charges on the PEDOT chains. The near-IR photoconductivity results from the generation of charge carriers due to electron transfer from the photoexcited PEDOT molecule to the fullerene acceptor.
Applications of Natural Polymers in the Grapevine Industry: Plant Protection and Value-Added Utilization of Waste
Authors: Toma (Sărdărescu) Daniela-Ionela , Manaila-Maximean Doina , Fierascu Irina , Baroi Anda Maria , Matei (Brazdis) Roxana Ioana , Fistos Toma , Chican Irina Elena , Fierascu Radu Claudiu
Published: December 2024

The grapevine industry is confronted with challenges such as plant stress from environmental factors and microbial infections, alongside the need for sustainable waste management practices. Natural polymers offer promising solutions to these issues due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and functional versatility. This review explores the dual role of natural polymers in enhancing the grapevine industry: as protective agents against various stressors and as carriers for the delivery of valuable compounds recovered from grapevine wastes. We examine the use of natural polymers such as chitosan, alginate, and cellulose in formulating bio-based protective coatings and treatments that bolster plant resistance to abiotic stress, pathogens, and pests. Additionally, the review delves into the innovative utilization of grapevine residues, including skins, seeds, and stems, as sources of polyphenols and other bioactive compounds. These compounds can be efficiently encapsulated in natural polymer matrices for applications in agriculture, food, and pharmaceuticals. Key topics include the mechanisms of action, benefits, and limitations of natural polymer-based interventions, as well as case studies demonstrating their practical implementation in vineyards. The review also addresses future research directions, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches that enhance sustainability and economic viability in the grapevine industry.
The Paradoxical Immunomodulatory Effects of Chitosan in Biomedicine
Authors: Reay Sophie L. , Marina Ferreira Ana , Hilkens Catharien M. U. , Novakovic Katarina
Published: December 2024

Chitosan is widely explored in the field of biomedicine due to its abundance and reported properties, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxicity, mucoadhesion, and anti-microbial activity. Although our understanding of the immune response to chitosan has evolved, confusion remains regarding whether chitosan is a pro- or anti-inflammatory biomaterial. Tackling this knowledge gap is essential for the translation of chitosan-based biomaterials to clinical use. Herein, we provide an overview of the immune responses to chitosan, exploring the roles of endotoxin contamination and physiochemical properties in immunomodulation. Ultimately, this literature review concludes that various physiochemical properties, including molecular weight, degree of deacetylation and polydispersity, endotoxin contamination, and cellular environment, interplay in the complex process of chitosan immunomodulation, which can lead to both pro- and anti-inflammatory effects.
Cosmetic Surgery and the Christian Body: Comparative Ethical Reflections from Orthodox and Catholic Traditions
Authors: Mavropoulos Angelos
Published: December 2024

This article explores the ethical dimensions of cosmetic surgery, offering a comparative analysis of perspectives from both the Orthodox and the Catholic moral theologies. Both traditions uphold the sanctity of the human body as a creation of God, emphasizing the importance of maintaining its integrity and dignity. However, their approaches to the ethical implications of cosmetic surgery might reveal distinct theological nuances that reflect their unique doctrinal and cultural contexts. By examining the theological foundations, doctrinal teachings, and contemporary ethical debates within both traditions, this study seeks to illuminate how Orthodox and Catholic ethics address the complexities of bodily modification. The analysis highlights the ways in which each tradition navigates concerns related to vanity, identity, and the pursuit of physical perfection, offering insights into their shared values as well as their distinct perspectives. This interdenominational study aims to contribute to ecumenical and intercultural dialogue, fostering greater understanding and respect between the two original Christian traditions. By engaging with the ethical considerations surrounding cosmetic surgery, this article provides a platform for deeper reflection on the role of the body in Christian spirituality and the ongoing relevance of these issues in a diverse and interconnected world.
Paul’s Jewish Prophetic Critique of Jews in Romans
Authors: Windsor Lionel J.
Published: December 2024

The article examines Paul’s critique of Jews in Romans, focusing on Romans 1–3. It adopts an approach of reading Paul within Judaism while differing from some interpreters representative of this approach by arguing that Paul is critiquing his fellow Jews and that his critique is relevant to his gentile audience. It argues against the traditional Protestant problematization of “works righteousness”, Sanders’ claim that Paul reasons from solution to plight, and the New Perspective’s problematization of ethnic distinctiveness. Paul’s critique is grounded in Jewish intramural prophetic critique and restoration eschatology, over against Torah-wisdom traditions. Consistent with this perspective, Paul’s fundamental criticism of Jews and Israel is their failure to keep the divine Torah. Central to Paul’s argument is the interplay between Jewish particularity and the universal scope of Paul’s gospel. Israel’s failure is an intermediate but not an ultimate divine purpose. Jewish distinctiveness and Torah reveal the seriousness of sin and affirm the justice of God’s wrath. Thus, Paul’s prophetic critique also implies a prophetic hope for Israel, intertwined with his critique of and hope for all humanity, whom he views as sinners standing under God’s judgment and needing salvation through faith in the Davidic messiah, Jesus.
Establishing a Marine Gravimeter Test Site in the South China Sea to Validate the Performance of Different Marine Gravimeters
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Wu Zhaocai , Gao Jinyao , Jiang Zhongshan
Published: December 2024

Marine gravity anomalies play an important role in geophysics applications. To observe high-precision and high-resolution gravity anomalies, a high-performance marine gravimeter is key. At present, the marine gravimeters widely used in the world have different measurement principles, such as the two-axis stable platform gravimeter, gimbaled inertial navigation gravimeter, and strapdown gravimeter. However, the performances of marine gravimeters with different measurement principles show different precision levels in real applications. A synchronized comparison test on the same platform is the most direct method for evaluating their performance, which is a relative analysis method. To absolutely evaluate the performance of different kinds of marine gravimeters, a new method is presented to remove the residual noise from the measured free air gravity anomaly to establish an “air truth” free air gravity anomaly. Synchronous measurements with different gravimeters were carried out in the north area of the South China Sea, measured three times over a round trip, and the highest-precision free air gravity anomaly measured by GT-2M, SAG-2M, and ZL11-1A was chosen to establish the “air truth” free air gravity anomaly. The external consistency of the free air gravity anomaly upon the removal of residual noise of frequencies 0.03 Hz to 0.06 Hz improved, and the three separate standard free air gravity anomalies of each gravimeter were the same with no deviation. The weighted result of the three average values of GT-2M, SAG-2M, and ZL11-1A is the established “air truth” free air gravity anomaly, which can be used as a standard to estimate the performance of marine gravimeters with different kinds of principles.
Prior-FOVNet: A Multimodal Deep Learning Framework for Megavoltage Computed Tomography Truncation Artifact Correction and Field-of-View Extension
Authors: Tang Long , Zheng Mengxun , Liang Peiwen , Li Zifeng , Zhu Yongqi , Zhang Hua
Published: December 2024

Megavoltage computed tomography (MVCT) plays a crucial role in patient positioning and dose reconstruction during tomotherapy. However, due to the limited scan field of view (sFOV), the entire cross-section of certain patients may not be fully covered, resulting in projection data truncation. Truncation artifacts in MVCT can compromise registration accuracy with the planned kilovoltage computed tomography (KVCT) and hinder subsequent MVCT-based adaptive planning. To address this issue, we propose a Prior-FOVNet to correct the truncation artifacts and extend the field of view (eFOV) by leveraging material and shape priors learned from the KVCT of the same patient. Specifically, to address the intensity discrepancies between different imaging modalities, we employ a contrastive learning-based GAN, named TransNet, to transform KVCT images into synthesized MVCT (sMVCT) images. The sMVCT images, along with pre-corrected MVCT images obtained via sinogram extrapolation, are then input into a Swin Transformer-based image inpainting network for artifact correction and FOV extension. Experimental results using both simulated and real patient data demonstrate that our method outperforms existing truncation correction techniques in reducing truncation artifacts and reconstructing anatomical structures beyond the sFOV. It achieves the lowest MAE of 23.8 ± 5.6 HU and the highest SSIM of 97.8 ± 0.6 across the test dataset, thereby enhancing the reliability and clinical applicability of MVCT in adaptive radiotherapy.
Wake Detection and Positioning for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles Based on Cilium-Inspired Wake Sensor
Authors: Hu Xuanye , Yang Yi , Liao Zhiyu , Zhu Xinghua , Wang Renxin , Zhang Peng , Hu Zhiqiang
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a method for passive detection of autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) wakes using a cilium-inspired wake sensor (CIWS), which can be used for the detection and tracking of AUVs. First, the characteristics of the CIWS and its working principle for detecting underwater flow fields are introduced. Then, a flow velocity sensor is used to measure the flow velocities of the “TS MINI” AUV’s wake at different positions, and a velocity field model of the “TS MINI” AUV’s wake is established. Finally, the wake field of the “TS MINI” AUV was measured at various positions using the CIWS. By analyzing the data, the characteristic frequency of the AUV’s propeller is identified, which is correlated with the AUV’s rotation speed and the number of blades. Through further analysis, a mapping model is established between the spectral amplitude of the characteristic frequency at different positions and the corresponding wake velocity. By substituting this mapping model into the AUV’s wake velocity field model, the possible position range of the sensor relative to the AUV propeller can be estimated. The research provides a technical foundation for underwater detection and tracking missions based on wake detection.
A Comparative Analysis of Explainable Artificial Intelligence Models for Electric Field Strength Prediction over Eight European Cities
Authors: Kiouvrekis Yiannis , Givisis Ioannis , Panagiotakopoulos Theodor , Tsilikas Ioannis , Ploussi Agapi , Spyratou Ellas , Efstathopoulos Efstathios P.
Published: December 2024

The widespread propagation of wireless communication devices, from smartphones and tablets to Internet of Things (IoT) systems, has become an integral part of modern life. However, the expansion of wireless technology has also raised public concern about the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields. Our objective is to determine the optimal machine learning model for constructing electric field strength maps across urban areas, enhancing the field of environmental monitoring with the aid of sensor-based data collection. Our machine learning models consist of a novel and comprehensive dataset collected from a network of strategically placed sensors, capturing not only electromagnetic field readings but also additional urban features, including population density, levels of urbanization, and specific building characteristics. This sensor-driven approach, coupled with explainable AI, enables us to identify key factors influencing electromagnetic exposure more accurately. The integration of IoT sensor data with machine learning opens the potential for creating highly detailed and dynamic electromagnetic pollution maps. These maps are not merely static snapshots; they offer researchers the ability to track trends over time, assess the effectiveness of mitigation efforts, and gain a deeper understanding of electromagnetic field distribution in urban environments. Through the extensive dataset, our models can yield highly accurate and dynamic electric field strength maps. For this study, we performed a comprehensive analysis involving 566 machine learning models across eight French cities: Lyon, Saint-Étienne, Clermont-Ferrand, Dijon, Nantes, Rouen, Lille, and Paris. The analysis incorporated six core approaches: k-Nearest Neighbors, XGBoost, Random Forest, Neural Networks, Decision Trees, and Linear Regression. The findings underscore the superior predictive capabilities of ensemble methods such as Random Forests and XGBoost, which outperform individual models. Simpler approaches like Decision Trees and k-NN offer effective yet slightly less precise alternatives. Neural Networks, despite their complexity, highlight the potential for further refinement in this application. In addition, our results show that the machine learning models significantly outperform the linear regression baseline, demonstrating the added value of more complex techniques in this domain. Our SHAP analysis reveals that the feature importance rankings in tree-based machine learning models differ significantly from those in k-NN, neural network, and linear regression models.
Tunable Beam Steering Metasurface Based on a PMN-PT Crystal with a High Electro-Optic Coefficient
Authors: Chen Huan , Wang Zixin , Chen Xin , Wang Junli
Published: December 2024

Existing tunable optical metasurfaces based on the electro-optic effect are either complex in structure or have a limited phase modulation range. In this paper, a simple rectangular metasurface structure based on a Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) crystal with high electro-optic coefficient of 120 pm/V was designed to demonstrate its electrically tunable performance in the optical communication band through simulations. By optimizing the structure parameters, a tunable metasurface was generated that can induce a complete 2π phase shift for beam deflection while maintaining relatively uniform transmittance. Simulations further demonstrated the electrical tunability of the beam deflection direction and operating wavelength of the metasurface. This tunable optical metasurface, with its simple and easily fabricated structure, can promote the development and application of multifunctional and controllable metasurfaces. Its adjustable beam deflection direction and operating wavelength may find applications in fields such as optical communication systems and imaging.
Approach Towards the Development of Digital Twin for Structural Health Monitoring of Civil Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Sun Zhiyan , Jayasinghe Sanduni , Sidiq Amir , Shahrivar Farham , Mahmoodian Mojtaba , Setunge Sujeeva
Published: December 2024

Civil infrastructure assets’ contribution to countries’ economic growth is significantly increasing due to the rapid population growth and demands for public services. These civil infrastructures, including roads, bridges, railways, tunnels, dams, residential complexes, and commercial buildings, experience significant deterioration from the surrounding harsh environment. Traditional methods of visual inspection and non-destructive tests are generally undertaken to monitor and evaluate the structural health of the infrastructure. However, these methods lack reliability due to the need for instrumentation calibration and reliance on subjective visual judgments. Digital twin (DT) technology digitally replicates existing infrastructure, offering significant potential for real-time intelligent monitoring and assessment of structural health. This study reviews the existing applications of DTs across various sectors. It proposes an approach for developing DT applications in civil infrastructure, including using the Internet of Things, data acquisition, and modelling, together with the platform requirements and challenges that may be confronted during DT development. This comprehensive review is a state-of-the-art review of advancements and challenges in DT technology for intelligent monitoring and maintenance of civil infrastructure.
Fault Detection and Diagnosis in Industry 4.0: A Review on Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Leite Denis , Andrade Emmanuel , Rativa Diego , Maciel Alexandre M. A.
Published: December 2024

Integrating Machine Learning (ML) in industrial settings has become a cornerstone of Industry 4.0, aiming to enhance production system reliability and efficiency through Real-Time Fault Detection and Diagnosis (RT-FDD). This paper conducts a comprehensive literature review of ML-based RT-FDD. Out of 805 documents, 29 studies were identified as noteworthy for presenting innovative methods that address the complexities and challenges associated with fault detection. While ML-based RT-FDD offers different benefits, including fault prediction accuracy, it faces challenges in data quality, model interpretability, and integration complexities. This review identifies a gap in industrial implementation outcomes that opens new research opportunities. Future Fault Detection and Diagnosis (FDD) research may prioritize standardized datasets to ensure reproducibility and facilitate comparative evaluations. Furthermore, there is a pressing need to refine techniques for handling unbalanced datasets and improving feature extraction for temporal series data. Implementing Explainable Artificial Intelligence (AI) (XAI) tailored to industrial fault detection is imperative for enhancing interpretability and trustworthiness. Subsequent studies must emphasize comprehensive comparative evaluations, reducing reliance on specialized expertise, documenting real-world outcomes, addressing data challenges, and bolstering real-time capabilities and integration. By addressing these avenues, the field can propel the advancement of ML-based RT-FDD methodologies, ensuring their effectiveness and relevance in industrial contexts.
Marine Origin vs. Synthesized Compounds: In Silico Screening for a Potential Drug Against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Osmanović Amar , Salihović Mirsada , Veljović Elma , Hindija Lamija , Pazalja Mirha , Malenica Maja , Selmanagić Aida , Špirtović-Halilović Selma
Published: December 2024

Although COVID-19 is not a pandemic anymore, the virus frequently mutates, resulting in new strains and presenting global public health challenges. The lack of oral antiviral drugs makes it difficult to treat him, which makes the creation of broadly acting antivirals necessary to fight current and next epidemics of viruses. Using the molecular docking approach, 118 compounds derived from marine organisms and 92 previously synthesized compounds were screened to assess their binding affinity for the main protease and papain-like protease enzymes of SARS-CoV-2. The best candidates from the xanthene, benzoxazole, and coumarin classes were identified. Marine-derived compounds showed slightly better potential as enzyme inhibitors, though the binding affinities of synthesized compounds were similar, with the best candidates displaying affinity values between 0.2 and 0.4 mM. Xanthenes, among both marine origin and synthesized compounds, emerged as the most promising scaffolds for further research as inhibitors. The papain-like protease was found to be more druggable than the main protease. Additionally, all top candidates met the criteria for various drug-likeness properties, indicating good oral bioavailability and low risk of adverse effects. This research provides valuable insights into the comparative affinities of marine origin and synthesized compounds from the xanthene, coumarin, and benzoxazole classes, highlighting promising candidates for further in vitro and in vivo studies.
Racial Authoritarian Preemption and the Politics of Tennessee
Authors: Franklin Sekou
Published: December 2024

Racial authoritarian preemption occurs when state governments overturn, override, and alter the governing power of racially diverse municipalities. Using Tennessee as a case study, this article looks at the convergence of race, authoritarian governance, and state preemption. Three components of racial authoritarian preemption are examined: anti-federal nullification, administrative fiefdoms, and municipal containment. I focus on the period of 2010–2024, when the Tennessee legislature was captured by conservative Republicans, who then used preemption to revoke locally based civil rights, racial equity initiatives, and redistributive measures championed by minoritized communities. In examining preemption, this article draws from primary and secondary sources, including legislative records and the General Social Survey administered by the University of Chicago’s National Opinion Research Center. The article demonstrates that preemption has been weaponized in the twenty-first century to augment the power of far-right state officials and to disempower cities and municipalities that are racially diverse or dominated by Black-led and multi-racial governing institutions.