bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of the Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation of Genicular Nerves in Patients with Chronic Knee Pain Due to Osteoarthritis: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Study
Authors: Kwon Hyun-Jung , Kim Chan-Sik , Kim Doo-Hwan , Shin Jin-Woo , Choi Daeyun , Choi Seong-Soo
Published: May 2024

Background: Increasing evidence supporting the clinical effectiveness of cooled radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy for genicular nerves in patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis (OA) exists. However, no study has been conducted to eliminate the potential influence of a placebo effect associated with this procedure. Therefore, we evaluated the efficacy of cooled RFA compared with a sham procedure in patients with painful knees due to OA. Methods: In this double-blind, randomized, controlled study, participants were randomly assigned to receive cooled RFA of the knee (cooled RFA group, n = 20) or a sham procedure (sham group, n = 20). The primary outcome was the proportion of successful responders at the three-month follow-up. The secondary outcomes were successful responders at one and six months; pain intensity of the knee; functional status; medication; and satisfaction at one, three, and six months after the procedures. Results: For the primary outcome, the successful responder rate was significantly higher in the cooled RFA group (76.5%) than in the sham group (33.3%) (p = 0.018). For the secondary outcome, more successful responders were observed in the cooled RFA group than in the sham group at one and six months after the procedure (p = 0.041 and 0.007, respectively). The decreased knee pain intensity was maintained throughout the six-month follow-up period in the cooled RFA group. No differences were observed in functional status, medication change, or satisfaction in both groups. Conclusions: The cooled RFA of genicular nerves offers significant pain relief and surpasses the effects attributable to a placebo.
Effects of Alkaline Cleaning Agents on the Long-Term Performance and Aging of Polyethersulfone Ultrafiltration Membranes Applied for Treatment of Car Wash Wastewater
Authors: Gryta Marek , Woźniak Piotr , Mozia Sylwia
Published: May 2024

The commercial ultrafiltration polyethersulfone (PES) membranes (10 and 100 kDa) blended with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) were applied for the filtration of car wash wastewater. Periodical membrane rinsing with water did not prevent fouling and a decrease in permeate flux was observed. Fouling was reduced by washing the membranes with cleaning agents, which are used in car washes to clean wheels and remove insects. In addition to surfactants, these agents contain NaOH, hence the pH value of cleaning solutions was over 11. Long-term contact with such solutions resulted in the removal of PVP from the membrane matrix and an increase in pore size. The PES membranes were soaked in an alkaline solution (pH = 11.5) for 20 months, after which the 200 kDa dextran rejection decreased from 95% to 80%. To compare with the static degradation conditions, 8 weeks of alkaline agent filtration was realized, after which the dextran (200 kDa) rejection decreased below 50%. This indicated that the cross-flow of alkaline agents can accelerate the removal of components building the membrane matrix. Despite membrane degradation, the separation efficiency (the rejection of chemical oxygen demand—COD, turbidity, and surfactants) during the treatment of synthetic car wash wastewater was similar to that obtained for pristine membranes.
Advanced FEM Insights into Pressure-Assisted Warm Single-Point Incremental Forming of Ti-6Al-4V Titanium Alloy Sheet Metal
Authors: Trzepieciński Tomasz , Szpunar Marcin , Ostrowski Robert , Ziaja Waldemar , Motyka Maciej
Published: May 2024

This study employs the finite element (FE) method to analyze the Incremental Sheet Forming (ISF) process of Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy. The numerical modeling of pressure-assisted warm forming of Ti-6Al-4V sheets with combined oil-heating and friction stir rotation-assisted heating of the workpiece is presented in this article. The thermo-mechanical FE-based numerical model took into account the characteristics of the mechanical properties of the sheet along with the temperature. The experimental conditions were replicated in FEM simulations conducted in Abaqus/Explicit, which incorporated boundary conditions and evaluated various mesh sizes for enhanced accuracy and efficiency. The simulation outcomes were compared with actual experimental results to validate the FE-based model’s predictive capacity. The maximum temperature of the tool measured using infrared camera was approximately 326 °C. Different mesh sizes were considered. The results of FEM modeling were experimentally validated based on axial forming force and thickness distribution measured using the ARGUS optical measuring system for non-contact acquisition of deformations. The greatest agreement between FEM results and the experimental result of the axial component of forming force was obtained for finite elements with a size of 1 mm. The maximum values of the axial component of forming force determined experimentally and numerically differ by approximately 8%. The variations of the forming force components and thickness distribution predicted by FEM are in good agreement with experimental measurements. The numerical model overestimated the wall thickness with an error of approximately 5%. By focusing on the heating techniques applied to Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy sheet, this comparative analysis underlines the adaptability and precision of numerical analysis applied in modeling advanced manufacturing processes.
Review on Environmentally Assisted Static and Fatigue Cracking of Al-Mg-Si-(Cu) Alloys
Authors: Avramenko Tetiana , Michel Silvain , Kollender Jan , Burda Iurii , Hans Ulrik , Affolter Christian
Published: May 2024

This paper reviews the relevant literature and covers the main aspects of the environmentally assisted cracking of Al-Mg-Si-(Cu) alloys. Apart from a brief overview of the major microstructural and mechanical properties, it presents research results on the corrosion sensitivity and stress corrosion susceptibility of Al-Mg-Si alloys. Possible mechanisms of stress corrosion cracking and corrosion fatigue in aluminum alloys, such as anodic dissolution and/or interaction with hydrogen, are considered. A number of factors, including atmospheric or solution conditions, applied stress, and material properties, can affect these mechanisms, leading to environmentally assisted cracking. Specific attention is given to Al-Mg-Si alloys with copper, which may increase the sensitivity to intergranular corrosion. The susceptibility to both intergranular corrosion and stress corrosion cracking of Cu-containing Al-Mg-Si alloys is mostly associated with a very thin layer (segregation) of Cu on the grain boundaries. However, the effect of Cu on the corrosion fatigue and fatigue crack growth rate of Al-Mg-Si alloys has received limited attention in the literature. At the current state of the research, it has not yet been holistically assessed, although a few studies have shown that a certain content of copper can improve the resistance of aluminum alloys to the environment with regard to corrosion fatigue. Furthermore, considerations of the synergistic actions of various factors remain essential for further studying environmentally assisted cracking phenomena in aluminum alloys.
Die Casting of Lightweight Thin Fin Heat Sink Using Al-25%Si
Authors: Haga Toshio , Fuse Hiroshi
Published: May 2024

The demand for lightweight and cost-effective heat sinks is increasing. A typical method for economically manufacturing complex-shape heat sinks is die casting. To reduce the weight of the die-cast heat sinks, thinning the fins and base is common practice. We experimented with casting heat sinks using Al-25%Si in a conventional die casting machine with the aim of economically producing thinner fins and bases. Compared with the aluminum alloy used in conventional die casting, Al-25%Si has superior fluidity, which is proven to be very useful for reducing the thickness of the fins and base. As a result, we successfully reduced the heat sink weight using Al-25%Si and a conventional die casting machine. To investigate the properties of the produced Al-25%Si thin fin heat sink, we compared the effects of fin thickness, fin height, number of fins, and base thickness on heat dissipation and weight reduction. Additionally, we compared the weight and heat dissipation properties with those of a commercial heat sink and found that our Al-25%Si heat sink maintains the same heat dissipation performance but for 35% lower weight.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Advances in Micro and Nano Manufacturing: Process Modeling and Applications, Volume II
Authors: Masato Davide
Published: May 2024

In the second volume of the Special Issue on ‘Advances in Micro and Nano Manufacturing: Process Modeling and Applications’, we continue to witness the dynamic evolution of micro- and nanomanufacturing technologies [...]
Miniaturized Multi-Cantilever MEMS Resonators with Low Motional Impedance
Authors: Li Haolin , Yang Qingrui , Yuan Yi , Shi Shuai , Niu Pengfei , Li Quanning , Chen Xuejiao , Zhang Menglun , Pang Wei
Published: May 2024

Microelectromechanical system (MEMS) cantilever resonators suffer from high motional impedance (Rm). This paper investigates the use of mechanically coupled multi-cantilever piezoelectric MEMS resonators in the resolution of this issue. A double-sided actuating design, which utilizes a resonator with a 2.5 μm thick AlN film as the passive layer, is employed to reduce Rm. The results of experimental and finite element analysis (FEA) show agreement regarding single- to sextuple-cantilever resonators. Compared with a standalone cantilever resonator, the multi-cantilever resonator significantly reduces Rm; meanwhile, the high quality factor (Q) and effective electromechanical coupling coefficient (Kteff2) are maintained. The 30 μm wide quadruple-cantilever resonator achieves a resonance frequency (fs) of 55.8 kHz, a Q value of 10,300, and a series impedance (Rs) as low as 28.6 kΩ at a pressure of 0.02 Pa; meanwhile, the smaller size of this resonator compared to the existing multi-cantilever resonators is preserved. This represents a significant advancement in MEMS resonators for miniaturized ultra-low-power oscillator applications.
Fabrication of a Cancer Cell Aggregate Culture Device That Facilitates Observations of Nutrient and Oxygen Gradients
Authors: Kaminaga Maho , Otomo Shuta , Tsunozaki Seisyu , Kadonosono Tetuya , Omata Toru
Published: May 2024

Three-dimensional cell culture spheroids are commonly used for drug evaluation studies because they can produce large quantities of homogeneous cell aggregates. As the spheroids grow, nutrients supplied from outer spheroid regions render the inner spheroid areas hypoxic and hyponutrient, which makes them unobservable through confocal microscopy. In this study, we fabricated a cancer cell aggregate culture device that facilitates the observation of nutrient and oxygen gradients. An alginate gel fiber was created in the cell culture chamber to ensure a flow path for supplying the culture medium. A gradient of nutrients and oxygen was generated by positioning the flow channel close to the edge of the chamber. We devised a fabrication method that uses calcium carbonate as a source of Ca2+ for the gelation of sodium alginate, which has a slow reaction rate. We then cultured a spheroid of HCT116 cells, which were derived from human colorectal carcinoma using a fluorescent ubiquitination-based cell cycle indicator. Fluorescence observation suggested the formation of a hypoxic and hyponutrient region within an area approximately 500 µm away from the alginate gel fiber. This indicates the development of a cancer cell aggregate culture device that enables the observation of different nutrition and oxygen states.
A Dual-Passband Frequency Selective Surface with High Angular Stability and Polarization Insensitivity
Authors: Li Yi , Ma Yan , Ren Peng , Wang Minrui , Xiang Zheng
Published: May 2024

In this paper, a dual-passband frequency selective surface (FSS) with high angular stability and polarization insensitivity is proposed. The unit structure consists of a circular aperture, two annular apertures and four cross apertures. The designed FSS can achieve a double-passband at the interested frequencies of 8.45 GHz and 12.76 GHz with an insertion loss of less than 1 dB, and it can retain a stable transmission characteristic with the incident angle ranging from 0° to 86° for TE mode and from 0° to 83° for TM mode. Good agreement between the experimental results and the simulated response verifies the feasibility of the proposed FSS.
A Review of Pressure Drop and Mixing Characteristics in Passive Mixers Involving Miscible Liquids
Authors: Ganguli Arijit , Bhatt Viraj , Yagodnitsyna Anna , Pinjari Dipak , Pandit Aniruddha
Published: May 2024

The present review focuses on the recent studies carried out in passive micromixers for understanding the hydrodynamics and transport phenomena of miscible liquid–liquid (LL) systems in terms of pressure drop and mixing indices. First, the passive micromixers have been categorized based on the type of complexity in shape, size, and configuration. It is observed that the use of different aspect ratios of the microchannel width, presence of obstructions, flow and operating conditions, and fluid properties majorly affect the mixing characteristics and pressure drop in passive micromixers. A regime map for the micromixer selection based on optimization of mixing index (MI) and pressure drop has been identified based on the literature data for the Reynolds number (Re) range (1 ≤ Re ≤ 100). The map comprehensively summarizes the favorable, moderately favorable, or non-operable regimes of a micromixer. Further, regions for special applications of complex micromixer shapes and micromixers operating at low Re have been identified. Similarly, the operable limits for a micromixer based on pressure drop for Re range 0.1 < Re < 100,000 have been identified. A comparison of measured pressure drop with fundamentally derived analytical expressions show that Category 3 and 4 micromixers mostly have higher pressure drops, except for a few efficient ones. An MI regime map comprising diffusion, chaotic advection, and mixed advection-dominated zones has also been devised. An empirical correlation for pressure drop as a function of Reynolds number has been developed and a corresponding friction factor has been obtained. Predictions on heat and mass transfer based on analogies in micromixers have also been proposed.
Improving Micro-EDM Machining Efficiency for Titanium Alloy Fabrication with Advanced Coated Electrodes
Authors: Pham Hoang-Vuong , Nguyen Huu-Phan , Shailesh Shirguppikar , Nguyen Duc-Toan , Bui Ngoc-Tam
Published: May 2024

Enhancing the operational efficacy of electrical discharge machining (EDM) is crucial for achieving optimal results in various engineering materials. This study introduces an innovative solution—the use of coated electrodes—representing a significant advancement over current limitations. The choice of coating material is critical for micro-EDM performance, necessitating a thorough investigation of its impact. This research explores the application of different coating materials (AlCrN, TiN, and Carbon) on WC electrodes in micro-EDM processes specifically designed for Ti-6Al-4V. A comprehensive assessment was conducted, focusing on key quality indicators such as depth of cut (Z), tool wear rate (TWR), overcut (OVC), and post-machining surface quality. Through rigorous experimental methods, the study demonstrates substantial improvements in these quality parameters with coated electrodes. The results show significant enhancements, including increased Z, reduced TWR and OVC, and improved surface quality. This evidence underscores the effectiveness of coated electrodes in enhancing micro-EDM performance, marking a notable advancement in the precision and quality of Ti–6Al–4V machining processes. Among the evaluated coatings, AlCrN-coated electrodes exhibited the greatest increase in Z, the most significant reduction in TWR, and the best OVC performance compared to other coatings and the uncoated counterpart.
A Wearable Fingertip Force Feedback Device System for Object Stiffness Sensing
Authors: Wu Changcheng , Ren Jianli , Cao Qingqing , Yue Zeran , Fang Ting , Song Aiguo
Published: May 2024

Virtual reality technology brings a new experience to human-computer interaction, while wearable force feedback devices can enhance the immersion of users in interaction. This paper proposes a wearable fingertip force feedback device that uses a tendon drive mechanism, with the aim of simulating the stiffness characteristics of objects within virtual scenes. The device adjusts the rotation angle of the torsion spring through a DC motor, and then uses a wire to convert the torque into a feedback force at the user’s index fingertips, with an output force of up to 4 N and a force change rate of up to 10 N/s. This paper introduces the mechanical structure and design process of the force feedback device, and conducts a mechanical analysis of the device to select the appropriate components. Physical and psychological experiments are conducted to comprehensively evaluate the device’s performance in conveying object stiffness information. The results show that the device can simulate different stiffness characteristics of objects, and users can distinguish objects with different stiffness characteristics well when wearing the force feedback device and interacting with the three-dimensional virtual environments.
In-Plane Compressive Responses of Non-Homogenous Re-Entrant Honeycombs Fabricated by Fused Deposition Modelling
Authors: Baroutaji Ahmad , Nikkhah Hamid , Arjunan Arun , Pirmohammad Sadjad , Robinson John
Published: May 2024

Auxetic structures, with re-entrant (inverted hexagonal or bow tie) unit cells, have received considerable interest due to their negative Poisson’s ratio property that results in superior mechanical properties. This study proposes a simple method to create non-homogeneous re-entrant honeycombs by modifying the size of chevron crosslinks. The various structural designs were conceived by changing the geometrical dimensions of the crosslinks, namely the length (lcl) and the thickness (tcl), while maintaining the parameters of the re-entrant cell walls. The influence of the design parameters of chevron crosslinks on the mechanical behaviour of additively manufactured re-entrant honeycombs was investigated experimentally and numerically. The structures were fabricated using the Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) technique from polylactic acid (PLA) plastic. In-plane quasi-static compression tests were conducted to extract the elastic, plastic, and densification properties of the structures. Furthermore, a Finite Element (FE) model was developed via LS-DYNA R11.0 software, validated experimentally, and was then used to obtain a deeper insight into the deformation behaviour and auxetic performance of various designs. The obtained results revealed that the mechanical performance of re-entrant honeycombs can only be tuned by controlling the geometrical configuration of chevron crosslinks.
Coriolopsis strumosa as an Orchid Endophytic Fungus and Its Spatial Distribution in Epidendrum sp. (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Yao Na , Wang Tao , Jiang Jingwan , Yang Yuqian , Cao Xiaolu
Published: May 2024

Coriolopsis spp. are wood-decaying fungi that inhabit forests. They are mainly distributed in tropical and subtropical areas. Strain Epi910 was isolated from the asymbiotically germinated protocorm of Epidendrum sp. and identified as Coriolopsis strumosa. Symbiotic germination and high-throughput sequencing of the endophytic fungal communities of different parts were performed to characterize the function and spatial distribution of the Epi910 isolate. Under symbiotic germination, Epi910 promoted seed germination and seedling formation as an endophytic native fungus of Epidendrum sp. Endophytic fungal communities from seven different parts of Epidendrum sp. were characterized. In total, 645 OTUs were identified; 30 OTUs were shared among all seven parts. The internal transcribed spacer sequence of Epi910 was identical to that of a dominant shared OTU (OTU6). The relative abundance of OTU6 in the seven parts was identified as follows: capsule pericarp > seed > root > asymbiotically germinated protocorm > epiphytic root > ovary > rachis. Our results suggest that the isolate belonging to Coriolopsis strumosa could promote the germination of Epidendrum sp. There may, therefore, be endophytic fungi other than common orchid mycorrhizal fungi with the ability to enhance germination in orchids.
Oral Administration of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA5 Prevents Alveolar Bone Loss and Alters Oral and Gut Microbiomes in a Murine Periodontitis Experimental Model
Authors: Cataruci Amalia C. S. , Kawamoto Dione , Shimabukuro Natali , Ishikawa Karin H. , Ando-Suguimoto Ellen S. , Ribeiro Rodolfo A. , Nicastro Gianlucca G. , Albuquerque-Souza Emanuel , de Souza Robson F. , Mayer Marcia P. A.
Published: May 2024

Periodontitis is a destructive inflammatory response triggered by dysbiosis. Lactobacillus acidophilus LA5 (LA5) may impair microbial colonization and alter the host. Thus, we evaluated the effect of LA5 on alveolar bone loss in a periodontitis murine model and investigated its effect on the oral and gut microbiomes. Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Streptococcus gordonii were inoculated in C57BL/6 mice (P+), with LA5 (L+). SHAM infected controls (P- and/or L- groups) were also evaluated. After 45 days, alveolar bone loss in the maxilla and oral and gut microbiomes were determined. The administration of LA5 controlled the microbial consortium-induced alveolar bone loss. Periodontopathogens infection resulted in shifts in the oral and gut microbiomes consistent with dysbiosis, and LA5 reshaped these changes. The oral microbiome of P+L- group showed the increased abundance of Enterococaccea, Streptoccocaceae, Staphylococcaceae, Moraxellaceae, and Pseudomonadaceae, which were attenuated by the administration of LA5 to the infected group (P+L+). The administration of LA5 to otherwise non-infected mice resulted in the increased abundance of the superphylum Patescibacteria and the family Saccharamonadaceae in the gut. These data indicate L. acidophilus LA5 as a candidate probiotic for the control of periodontitis.
Pathohistological Changes in the Gastric Mucosa in Correlation with the Immunohistochemically Detected Spiral and Coccoid Forms of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Brkić Nikolina , Švagelj Dražen , Omazić Jelena
Published: May 2024

Background: The coccoid form of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is resistant to antibiotics. There are only a few studies that have analyzed the frequency of coccoid H. pylori in patients with gastritis. The aim of this work was to examine the correlation between the H. pylori form and the pathohistological characteristics of the stomach in patients with gastritis. Materials and methods: This research was cross-sectional and focused on the gastric mucosa samples of 397 patients from one general hospital in Croatia. Two independent pathologists analyzed the samples regarding the pathohistological characteristics and the form of H. pylori. Results: There was a statistically significant difference in the gender of patients with H. pylori gastritis. Only the coccoid form of H. pylori was present in 9.6% of patients. There was a statistically significant difference in the frequency of a certain form of the bacterium depending on its localization in the stomach. The intensity of the bacterium was low in the samples where only the coccoid or spiral form was described. In cases of infection in the antrum, premalignant lesions and the coccoid form of H. pylori were more often present. Conclusion: In the diagnosis of H. pylori infection, the determination of the form of the bacterium via immunohistochemistry should be included to increase the rate of eradication therapy and reduce the incidence of gastric malignancy.
Diversity of Cellular Slime Molds (Dictyostelids) in the Fanjing Mountain Nature Reserve and Geographical Distribution Comparisons with Other Representative Nature Reserves in Different Climate Zones of China
Authors: Zhang Zhaojuan , Li Meng , Zhang Shufei , Qin Yue , Zhao Jing , Li Yu , Stephenson Steven L. , Qiu Junzhi , Liu Pu
Published: May 2024

Protected areas are widely considered an essential strategy for biodiversity conservation. Dictyostelids are unique protists known to have important ecological functions in promoting soil and plant health through their top-down regulation of ecosystem processes, such as decomposition, that involve bacterial populations. But the relationship between dictyostelid diversity within protected areas remains poorly understood, especially on a large scale. Herein, we report data on the distribution of dictyostelids, identified with ITS + SSU rRNA molecular and morphology-based taxonomy, from soil samples collected in the Fanjing Mountain protected area of Guizhou Province, Southwest China. We compared the biodiversity data of dictyostelids in Fanjing Mountain with similar data from previously sampled sites in four other protected areas, including Changbai Mountain (CB), Gushan Mountain (GS), Baiyun Mountain (BY), and Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QT) in China. We identified four species of dictyostelids belonging to three genera (Dictyostelium, Heterostelium, and Polysphondylium) and herein provide information on the taxonomy of these species. Two species (Heterostelium pallidum and Dictyostelium purpureum) are common and widely distributed throughout the world, but one species (Polysphondylium fuscans) was new to China. Our data indicate that there is no distinguishable significant correlation between the dictyostelid species studied and environmental factors. Overall, the similarity index between Baiyun Mountain in Henan Province and Fanjing Mountain in Guizhou Province, located at approximately the same longitude, is the highest, and the Jaccard similarity coefficients (Jaccard index) of family, genus, and species are 100%, 100%, and 12.5%, respectively. From a species perspective, species in the same climate zone are not closely related, but obvious geographical distributions are evident in different climate zones. This preliminary study provided evidence of the ecological adaptation of dictyostelids to different biological niches.
Garnet Geochemistry of Pertek Skarns (Tunceli, Turkey) and U-Pb Age Findings
Authors: Kilic Ayşe Didem , Konakci Nevin , Sasmaz Ahmet
Published: May 2024

The Fe skarn and vein-type Cu mineralization types are common in the Eastern Taurus Mountains. This study aims to determine the U-Pb geochronology of garnets of varying sizes within the skarn zone developed at the quartz diorite–marble contact zone in Ayazpınar, Pertek District, Tunceli Province, Turkey. Additionally, this study aims to determine the age of the skarnization and the types of inclusion minerals in the garnets. Faulting and magma emplacement along the thrust plane caused mineralization in the Eastern Taurus Mountains, especially at the marble and quartz diorite contact zone between the cities of Elazığ and Tunceli. The greenish garnets found in the Ayazpınar deposit are characteristic of distal skarns, while red or brown Pertek garnets are observed in the proximal skarns. The garnets typically feature a core–rim texture. The cores of the garnet crystals are large, reddish in color, and have a high REE (Ce, Pr) content. Moreover, the cores have higher Fe and lower Al ratios, alongside higher La, Ce, and Pr contents, than the rims. We propose that the compositional differences between the rims and the cores reflect the transition from oxidized REE- and Fe3+-rich liquids to liquids with lower REE and Fe3+ contents, producing the differences in the garnet colors. Green garnets show lower REE contents than brown garnets with Fe-rich cores. The skarn under study includes the following successively formed zones: diorite → epidote skarn → garnet–magnetite → pyrite–garnet–magnetite → calcite carbonate. Diopside, magnetite, and hematite, including small grains, are surrounded or enveloped by garnets. The U-Pb age of the mineralization is 74.1 ± 5 Ma, indicating that the mineralization occurred concurrently with the intrusion settlement.
Controlling Factors of Organic Matter Enrichment in Marine–Continental Transitional Shale: A Case Study of the Upper Permian Longtan Formation, Northern Guizhou, China
Authors: Zhang Manting , Hu Mingyi , Cai Quansheng , Deng Qingjie , Wei Sile , Wang Kai , Li Yuqian , Han Ye
Published: May 2024

The marine–continental transitional shale of the Upper Permian Longtan Formation in northern Guizhou is an important source rock in the upper Yangtze region of China, and it holds significant potential for the exploration of shale gas. To investigate the correlation between sedimentary conditions and the accumulation of organic matters in marine–continental transitional shale, this paper performed an extensive analysis using organic geochemical testing, organic petrology examination, a cross-section polisher–scanning electron microscope (CP-SEM), and geochemical analysis. The Jinsha and Dafang drilling cores were selected as the research subjects. The results showed that the TOC of the Longtan Formation in the study area was relatively high, and the TOC content of the tidal flat–lagoon environment (average of 8.37%) was significantly higher than that of the delta samples (average of 2.77%). The high content of Al2O3 (average of 17.41% in DC-1, average of 16.53% in JC-1) indicated strong terrigenous detrital input. The proxies indicated that the Longtan Formation shale in northern Guizhou was deposited in a climate that was both warm and humid, with oxic–dysoxic sedimentary water characterized by high biological productivity and a rapid sedimentation rate. The organic-rich shales during the marine and continental transitional phases were affected by various factors, including the paleo-climate, water redox properties, paleo-productivity, sedimentation rate, and other variables, which directly or indirectly impacted the availability, burial, and preservation of organic matter.
A State-Based Language for Enhanced Video Surveillance Modeling (SEL)
Authors: Ramirez-Rosales Selene , Diaz-Jimenez Luis-Antonio , Canton-Enriquez Daniel , Perez-Ramos Jorge-Luis , Hernandez-Ramirez Herlindo , Herrera-Navarro Ana-Marcela , Xicotencatl-Ramirez Gabriela , Jimenez-Hernandez Hugo
Published: May 2024

SEL, a State-based Language for Video Surveillance Modeling, is a formal language designed to represent and identify activities in surveillance systems through scenario semantics and the creation of motion primitives structured in programs. Motion primitives represent the temporal evolution of motion evidence. They are the most basic motion structures detected as motion evidence, including operators such as sequence, parallel, and concurrency, which indicate trajectory evolution, simultaneity, and synchronization. SEL is a very expressive language that characterizes interactions by describing the relationships between motion primitives. These interactions determine the scenario’s activity and meaning. An experimental model is constructed to demonstrate the value of SEL, incorporating challenging activities in surveillance systems. This approach assesses the language’s suitability for describing complicated tasks.
Comparison between Short, Medium, and Long Fields of View in Estimating Bicep Femoris Fascicle Length
Authors: Ripley Nicholas J. , Comfort Paul , McMahon John
Published: May 2024

Measuring the bicep femoris long head fascicle length via the use of diagnostic ultrasound has become common practice within elite sport, using single images of between 4 and 6 cm. No study to date has compared single image estimations in terms of the varying fields of view (i.e., 4, 6, and 10 cm). Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether differences occur when estimating the bicep femoris long head fascicle length using short (4 cm), medium (6 cm), and long (10 cm) fields of view across three estimation equations. A total of 36 male athletes (age: 23.8 ± 3.8 years, body mass: 83.7 ± 14.0 kg, height: 1.81 ± 0.06 m) had three ultrasound images of the bicep femoris long head collected on a single occasion with the fascicle length estimated. A significant main effect was observed (p < 0.001) with moderate–very large differences (p < 0.078, d = 0.91–4.01). The smallest fields of view resulted in the greatest fascicle length. There were significant moderate–large associations between the fields of view (p < 0.001, r = 0.542–0.892). Unacceptable limits of agreement were observed, and the developed correction equations remained unacceptable. The partial measure equation is the most accurate whilst using the 10 cm fields of view, while the basic trigonometry equation had the lowest variability between fields of view and the smallest differences between fields of view; hence, this equation may be more appropriate when a <6 cm field of view is the only field of view available.
Stability of Graphene/Nafion Composite in PEM FC Electrodes
Authors: Krasnova Anna O. , Glebova Nadezhda V. , Kastsova Angelina G. , Pelageikina Anna O. , Redkov Alexey V. , Tomkovich Maria V. , Nechitailov Andrey A.
Published: May 2024

Ensuring the stable operation of proton exchange membrane fuel cells is conducive to their real-world application. A promising direction for stabilizing electrodes is the stabilization of the ionomer via the formation of surface compounds with graphene. A comprehensive study of the (electrochemical, chemical, and thermal) stability of composites for fuel cell electrodes containing a modifying additive of few-layer graphene was carried out. Electrochemical stability was studied by cycling the potential on a disk electrode for 5000 cycles. Chemical stability was assessed via the resistance of the composites to H2O2 treatment using ion-selective potentiometry. Thermal stability was studied using differential thermal analysis. Composites were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, EDX, and SEM. It was shown that graphene inhibits Nafion degradation when exposed to heat. Contrariwise, Nafion is corrosive to graphene. During electrochemical and chemical exposure, the determining change for carbon-rich composites is the carbon loss (oxidation) of the carbon material. In the case of carbon-poor composites, the removal of fluorine and sulfur from the Nafion polymer with their partial replacement by oxygen prevails. In all cases, the F/S ratio is stable. The dispersity of Nafion in a sample affects its chemical stability more than the G/Nafion ratio does.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Structure of Carbon Shell-Encapsulated Pt Nanoparticles for Fuel Cells
Authors: Davletbaev Khikmatulla , Chougule Sourabh S. , Min Jiho , Ko Keonwoo , Kim Yunjin , Choi Hyeonwoo , Choi Yoonseong , Chavan Abhishek A. , Pak Beomjun , Rakhmonov Ikromjon U. , Jung Namgee
Published: May 2024

Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) have attracted much attention as highly efficient, eco-friendly energy conversion devices. However, carbon-supported Pt (Pt/C) catalysts for PEMFCs still have several problems, such as low long-term stability, to be widely commercialized in fuel cell applications. To address the stability issues of Pt/C such as the dissolution, detachment, and agglomeration of Pt nanoparticles under harsh operating conditions, we design an interesting fabrication process to produce a highly active and durable Pt catalyst by introducing a robust carbon shell on the Pt surface. Furthermore, this approach provides insights into how to regulate the carbon shell layer for fuel cell applications. Through the application of an appropriate amount of H2 gas during heat treatment, the carbon shell pores, which are integral to the structure, can be systematically modulated to facilitate oxygen adsorption for the oxygen reduction reaction. Simultaneously, the carbon shell functions as a protective barrier, preventing catalyst degradation. In this regard, we investigate an in-depth analysis of the effects of critical parameters including H2 content and the flow rate of H2/N2 mixed gas during heat treatment to prepare better catalysts.
Propolis Alleviates Acute Lung Injury Induced by Heat-Inactivated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus via Regulating Inflammatory Mediators, Gut Microbiota and Serum Metabolites
Authors: Li Zongze , Liu Zhengxin , Guo Yuyang , Gao Shuangshuang , Tang Yujing , Li Ting , Xuan Hongzhuan
Published: May 2024

Propolis has potential anti-inflammatory properties, but little is known about its efficacy against inflammatory reactions caused by drug-resistant bacteria, and the difference in efficacy between propolis and tree gum is also unclear. Here, an in vivo study was performed to study the effects of ethanol extract from poplar propolis (EEP) and poplar tree gum (EEG) against heat-inactivated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice. Pre-treatment with EEP and EEG (100 mg/kg, p.o.) resulted in significant protective effects on ALI in mice, and EEP exerted stronger activity to alleviate lung tissue lesions and ALI scores compared with that of EEG. Furthermore, EEP significantly suppressed the levels of pro-inflammatory mediators in the lung, including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IFN-γ. Gut microbiota analysis revealed that both EEP and EEG could modulate the composition of the gut microbiota, enhance the abundance of beneficial microbiota and reduce the harmful ones, and partly restore the levels of short-chain fatty acids. EEP could modulate more serum metabolites and showed a more robust correlation between serum metabolites and gut microbiota. Overall, these results support the anti-inflammatory effects of propolis in the treatment of ALI, and the necessity of the quality control of propolis.
Effects of a Yoga Program Combined with a Mediterranean Diet on Nutritional Status and Functional Capacity in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Carcelén-Fraile María del Carmen , Martín-Baute María Rosalba , Ledesma-Cerrato María Isabel , Castellote-Caballero Yolanda , González-Martín Ana María , Hita-Contreras Fidel , Cano-Sánchez Javier , Aibar-Almazán Agustín
Published: May 2024

(1) Background: With the aging population, effective interventions are needed to enhance the health of older adults. This study investigated the combined effects of yoga and the Mediterranean diet on various health outcomes in community-dwelling older adults; (2) Methods: The study employed a randomized controlled trial design with a total of 116 older adults randomized to an experimental group (n = 57) that underwent a combined yoga and Mediterranean diet program and a control group (n = 59) that did not receive any intervention. Nutritional status was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment, flexibility with the Back Scratch Test and the Chair Sit-and-Reach Test, balance, gait, and fall risk with the Tinetti Scale, and muscle strength with a dynamometer and the 30 s Chair Stand Test; (3) Results: Regarding nutritional status, there were significant differences between the experimental group and the control group (Cohen’s d = 0.02). The participants in the experimental group showed greater balance (11.12 ± 3.01 vs. 10.03 ± 2.35, Cohen’s d = 0.41 and gait (7.63 ± 1.96 vs. 6.69 ± 2.50, Cohen’s d = 0.44) with respect to the control group. In terms of flexibility, the experimental group showed statistically significant improvements in the right arm (Cohen’s d = 0.43), left arm (Cohen’s d = 0.64), right perineum (Cohen’s d = 0.42), and left leg (Cohen’s d = 0.37) Finally, in terms of strength, participants in the experimental group experienced statistically significant improvements in grip strength and lower body strength (Cohen’s d = 0.39 and 0.81, respectively); (4) Conclusions: The study highlights the potential benefits of a 12-week intervention combining yoga with a Mediterranean diet to improve the health and functional capacities of community-dwelling older adults.
Assessment of the Diuretic Properties of Rice Bean Accessions Using a Mouse Model and Identification of Active Polyphenolic Compounds
Authors: Gong Dan , Zhang Bin , Yao Yang , Wang Suhua , Xiong Tao , Wang Lixia
Published: May 2024

Rice bean [Vigna umbellata (Thunb.) Ohwi and Ohashi], an annual legume in the genus Vigna, is a promising crop suitable for cultivation in a changing climate to ensure food security. It is also a medicinal plant widely used in traditional Chinese medicine; however, little is known about the medicinal compounds in rice bean. In this study, we assessed the diuretic effect of rice bean extracts on mice as well as its relationship with the contents of eight secondary metabolites in seeds. Mice gavaged with rice bean extracts from yellow and black seeds had higher urinary output (5.44–5.47 g) and water intake (5.8–6.3 g) values than mice gavaged with rice bean extracts from red seeds. Correlation analyses revealed significant negative correlations between urine output and gallic acid (R = −0.70) and genistein (R = −0.75) concentrations, suggesting that these two polyphenols negatively regulate diuresis. There were no obvious relationships between mice diuresis-related indices (urine output, water intake, and weight loss) and rutin or catechin contents, although the concentrations of both of these polyphenols in rice bean seeds were higher than the concentrations of the other six secondary metabolites. Our study findings may be useful for future research on the diuretic effects of rice bean, but they should be confirmed on the basis of systematic medical trials.
The Mediterranean Diet in Pregnancy: Implications for Maternal Brain Morphometry in a Secondary Analysis of the IMPACT BCN Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Nakaki Ayako , Gomez Yvan , Castro-Barquero Sara , Conti Allegra , Vellvé Kilian , Casas Irene , Genero Mariona , Youssef Lina , Segalés Laura , Benitez Leticia , Casas Rosa , Vieta Eduard , Bargallo Nuria , Toschi Nicola , Estruch Ramon , Crispi Fàtima , Gratacos Eduard , Crovetto Francesca
Published: May 2024

Introduction: A Mediterranean diet has positive effects on the brain in mid-older adults; however, there is scarce information on pregnant individuals. We aimed to evaluate the effect of a structured Mediterranean diet intervention on the cortical structure of the maternal brain during pregnancy. Methods: This study was a secondary analysis of the IMPACT BCN, a randomized clinical trial with 1221 high-risk pregnant women randomly allocated into three groups at 19–23 weeks of gestation: Mediterranean diet intervention, a mindfulness-based stress reduction program, or usual care. Maternal brain magnetic resonance imaging was performed during the third trimester of pregnancy in a random subgroup of participants. For this study, data from the Mediterranean diet and usual groups were analyzed. Maternal dietary intake, adherence to the Mediterranean diet and metabolite biomarkers were evaluated using a food frequency questionnaire, a 17-item dietary screener and plasma/urine samples, respectively. Results: The cluster-wise analysis showed that the Mediterranean diet group participants (n = 34) had significantly larger surface areas in the right precuneus (90%CI: <0.0001–0.0004, p < 0.001) and left superior parietal (90%CI: 0.026–0.033, p = 0.03) lobules compared to the usual care group participants (n = 37). A larger right precuneus area was associated with high improvements in adherence to the Mediterranean diet, a high intake of walnuts and high concentrations of urinary hydroxytyrosol. A larger left superior parietal area was associated with a high intake of walnuts and high concentrations of urinary hydroxytyrosol. Conclusions: The promotion of a Mediterranean diet during pregnancy has a significant effect on maternal brain structure.
Association between Dietary Patterns and All-Cause Mortality in the Chinese Old: Analysis of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey Cohort
Authors: Chen Yufei , Gao Ying , Chen Yexin , Wang Zuxin , Xu Huifang , Hu Fan , Cai Yong
Published: May 2024

Diet is one of the most important ways to intervene and promote the health of older adults and reduce all-cause mortality. This study aimed to investigate the association between dietary patterns and all-cause mortality in the Chinese old. This study involved 11,958 subjects aged 65–116 years in the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) from 2008 to 2018. Dietary patterns were derived from principal component analysis (PCA) with varimax rotation. Four dietary patterns were derived: the ‘milk–egg–sugar pattern’, ‘carnivorous pattern’, ‘healthy pattern’, and ‘northeastern pattern’. Cox proportional hazard models were built for males and females separately to estimate the relationship between different dietary patterns and all-cause mortality. After adjusting for all covariates, the milk–egg–sugar pattern played a reverse role in mortality risk in males and females in different quartiles. In the carnivorous pattern, only males in the fourth quartile were observed to have a significantly reduced mortality risk (HR = 0.84 (95% CI: 0.77–0.93)). Both genders benefited from the healthy pattern, which consistently lowered mortality risk across all quartiles (males: HR = 0.87 (95% CI: 0.84–0.89); females: HR = 0.95 (95% CI: 0.92–0.97)). The northeastern pattern also showed an inverse association with all-cause mortality in males (HR = 0.94 (95% CI: 0.92–0.97)) and females (HR = 0.96 (95% CI: 0.93–0.98)). This study showed the association between dietary patterns and all-cause mortality in the Chinese old, which is significant for further quantitative studies.
Consumer Perception of Innovative Fruit and Cereal Bars—Current and Future Perspectives
Authors: Kosicka-Gębska Małgorzata , Sajdakowska Marta , Jeżewska-Zychowicz Marzena , Gębski Jerzy , Gutkowska Krystyna
Published: May 2024

The aim of the study was to ascertain consumers’ interest in innovative fruit and cereal bars and their expectations of changes that could be applied by manufacturers to improve their health-promoting properties. An additional aim was to assess how these interests and expectations, as well as the information provided on the product label, determine the willingness to purchase a fruit and cereal bar with health-promoting properties. Data were collected through a quantitative CAWI survey conducted in 2020. It involved 1034 respondents. A logistic regression model was developed in which the dependent variable was the respondents’ interest in an innovative fruit and cereal bar on whose packaging the manufacturer declared its health-promoting properties. It was found that producers’ efforts to change the packaging to an organic one (OR = 1.24) along with enriching the product with chia seeds/flaxseed (OR = 1.22), vitamins and minerals (OR = 1.19), as well as fruit (OR = 1.14) and protein (OR = 1.12), or removing ingredients that cause allergies, would significantly increase the chance of respondents purchasing such a bar. A celebrity image and a claim that the product “helps maintain a healthy body weight” on the label would also encourage purchases. On the other hand, reducing the sugar content or enriching a fruit and cereal bar with powdered insects would significantly reduce the propensity to buy it.