bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond Barniz de Pasto Mopa-Mopa Objects: Artisans and Harvesters in the 21st Century
Authors: Arteaga Montes Giovany Paolo , Figueroa Fernández María Mercedes
Published: September 2024

This article intends to highlight and reconstruct the relationships between humans (harvesters, woodworkers and master artisans) and non-humans (raw materials, tools, places, products, etc.) in the Barniz de Pasto mopa-mopa tradition. These relationships were lost when the focus came to be primarily on the objects, as happens in most popular art forms worldwide. This text is organised in ethnographic overviews: the home workshops of masters of Barniz de Pasto; woodworker workshops; montañas-selvas (Andean rainforest highlands) and mopa-mopa harvesters; until we reach the objects. Unlike a conventional article, it does not end with firm and immutable conclusions. Our reflections from our eleven years (2013–2024) of accompanying men and women artisans and collectors, during the process of including the traditional knowledge and techniques associated with Barniz de Pasto mopa-mopa as Intangible Cultural Heritage (patrimonialización) and its safeguarding, are always open for discussion.
Provenance Studies of a Set of Pick-Up Glass Fragments Found in Portugal and Dated to the 17th Century
Authors: Valente Francisca Pulido , Coutinho Inês , Medici Teresa , Gratuze Bernard , Alves Luís C. , Cadena Ana , Vilarigues Márcia
Published: September 2024

One of the most recognized decorations of the pick-up technique is the millefiori glass, which has been commonly attributed to Venetian production. However, Portugal is the country where the largest known assemblage of this type of glass artefact has been studied and published. In this work, two important archeological contexts were selected: (1) Santa Clara-a-Velha monastery (SCV) and (2) São João de Tarouca monastery (SJT). The fragments selection was made based on the diversity of decorative motifs, colors, and original forms that has been associated with Portuguese production. The compositional characterization was conducted by performing micro-particle-induced X-ray emission (µ-PIXE) mapping, which facilitated the visualization of the distribution of different oxides across the different glass layers and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) to obtain the major, minor, and trace elements composition, including rare earth elements (REEs) to determine which kind of raw materials were used. Additionally, µ-Raman spectroscopy was employed to investigate the opacifiers, while UV–Visible spectroscopy was used to study which chromophores are presented in the glass samples. All the analyzed glass layers can be considered to be of a soda–lime–silica type, and four different geological patterns (from GP1 to GP4) were detected and reported. This result can indicate that these objects were made by using silica sources taken from four different geological settings. Interestingly, the GP3 represents about 41% of the analyzed glass fragments and is compatible with the pattern detected in some production wastes found in two different archeological contexts located in Lisbon, which reinforces the veracity of the theory that this GP can be attributed to a Portuguese production. On the other hand, GP1 was probably attributed Granada provenance.
The Representation of Vernacular Architecture in the Gates of Paradise by Lorenzo Ghiberti
Authors: Merlo Alessandro , Lavoratti Gaia
Published: September 2024

Often, artists of all time periods have unintentionally crystallized in their works the image of landscapes distant in time; of those landscapes, sometimes only faint traces remain, adding to the collection of so-called indirect sources. In many cases, a critical analysis carried out using the comparative method of those iconographic sources allows the inference of the relevant information regarding the layout of places, the structures housed there, and the practice of arts and crafts, or about customs and habits (e.g., dressing, eating, etc.); it is possible to recompose the so-called ‘buried landscapes’ by combining it with, and thanks to, the substantial contributions of other disciplines (such as history, archaeology, and anthropology). This contribution shows the first outcomes of research carried out within the Ghibertiana Project by CHMlab of DIDA (UNIFI), which aims to analyze the ‘landscape characterised by cultivated areas’ from the Florentine countryside in the early fifteenth century. In particular, it is maintained that Lorenzo Ghiberti (Pelago, 1378–Florence, 1455), just like other contemporary artists, depicted territories and architectures he had first experienced in some of the ten bronze panels of the Gates of Paradise of the Baptistery of Florence. He described in great detail the flora, fauna, and anthropic structures of the extra moenia territory. The focus of the early stage of analysis and this contribution is mainly on shelters: temporary structures functional to agricultural work. The encouraging results obtained may give rise to new research on other Florentine landscape elements artfully chiseled in Ghiberti’s workshop.
Optimization of Helicobacter pylori Biofilm Formation in In Vitro Conditions Mimicking Stomach
Authors: Krzyżek Paweł , Migdał Paweł , Krzyżanowska Barbara , Duda-Madej Anna
Published: September 2024

Helicobacter pylori is one of the most common bacterial pathogens worldwide and the main etiological agent of numerous gastric diseases. The frequency of multidrug resistance of H. pylori is growing and the leading factor related to this phenomenon is its ability to form biofilm. Therefore, the establishment of a proper model to study this structure is of critical need. In response to this, the aim of this original article is to validate conditions of the optimal biofilm development of H. pylori in monoculture and co-culture with a gastric cell line in media simulating human fluids. Using a set of culture-based and microscopic techniques, we proved that simulated transcellular fluid and simulated gastric fluid, when applied in appropriate concentrations, stimulate autoaggregation and biofilm formation of H. pylori. Additionally, using a co-culture system on semi-permeable membranes in media imitating the stomach environment, we were able to obtain a monolayer of a gastric cell line with H. pylori biofilm on its surface. We believe that the current model for H. pylori biofilm formation in monoculture and co-culture with gastric cells in media containing host-mimicking fluids will constitute a platform for the intensification of research on H. pylori biofilms in in vitro conditions that simulate the human body.
McWRKY43 Confers Cold Stress Tolerance in Michelia crassipes via Regulation of Flavonoid Biosynthesis
Authors: Yu Qiuxiu , Liu Caixian , Sun Jiahui , Ding Minghai , Ding Yu , Xu Yun , He Jinsong , Li Qizhen , Jin Xiaoling
Published: September 2024

WRKY transcription factor (TF) plays a crucial role in plant abiotic stress response, but it is rarely reported in Michelia crassipes. Our studies have found that the transcription factor McWRKY43, a member of the IIc subgroup, is strongly upregulated under cold stress. In this study, we cloned the full length of McWRKY43 to further investigate the function of McWRKY43 in resistance to cold stress and its possible regulatory pathways in M. crassipes. Under cold stress, the seed-germination rate of transgenic tobacco was significantly higher than that of the wild type, and the flavonoid content, antioxidant enzyme activities, and proline content of transgenic tobacco seedlings were significantly increased, which promoted the expression of flavonoid pathway structural genes. In addition, the transient transformation of McWRKY43 in the M. crassipes leaves also found the accumulation of flavonoid content and the transcription level of flavonoid structural genes, especially McLDOX, were significantly increased under cold stress. Yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) assay showed that McWRKY43 could bind to McLDOX promoter, and the transcription expression of McLDOX was promoted by McWRKY43 during cold stress treatment. Overall, our results indicated that McWRKY43 is involved in flavonoid biosynthetic pathway to regulate cold stress tolerance of M. crassipes, providing a basis for molecular mechanism of stress resistance in Michelia.
Research on Bitter Peptides in the Field of Bioinformatics: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Liu Shanghua , Shi Tianyu , Yu Junwen , Li Rui , Lin Hao , Deng Kejun
Published: September 2024

Bitter peptides are small molecular peptides produced by the hydrolysis of proteins under acidic, alkaline, or enzymatic conditions. These peptides can enhance food flavor and offer various health benefits, with attributes such as antihypertensive, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antibacterial, and immune-regulating properties. They show significant potential in the development of functional foods and the prevention and treatment of diseases. This review introduces the diverse sources of bitter peptides and discusses the mechanisms of bitterness generation and their physiological functions in the taste system. Additionally, it emphasizes the application of bioinformatics in bitter peptide research, including the establishment and improvement of bitter peptide databases, the use of quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) models to predict bitterness thresholds, and the latest advancements in classification prediction models built using machine learning and deep learning algorithms for bitter peptide identification. Future research directions include enhancing databases, diversifying models, and applying generative models to advance bitter peptide research towards deepening and discovering more practical applications.
Impact of Ionizing Radiation Exposure on Placental Function and Implications for Fetal Programming
Authors: Hourtovenko Cameron , Sreetharan Shayen , Tharmalingam Sujeenthar , Tai T. C.
Published: September 2024

Accidental exposure to high-dose radiation while pregnant has shown significant negative effects on the developing fetus. One fetal organ which has been studied is the placenta. The placenta performs all essential functions for fetal development, including nutrition, respiration, waste excretion, endocrine communication, and immunological functions. Improper placental development can lead to complications during pregnancy, as well as the occurrence of intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) offspring. IUGR is one of the leading indicators of fetal programming, classified as an improper uterine environment leading to the predisposition of diseases within the offspring. With numerous studies examining fetal programming, there remains a significant gap in understanding the placenta’s role in irradiation-induced fetal programming. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on how irradiation affects placental function to guide future research directions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of placental biology, including its development, structure, and function, and summarizes the placenta’s role in fetal programming, with a focus on the impact of radiation on placental biology. Taken together, this review demonstrates that fetal radiation exposure causes placental degradation and immune function dysregulation. Given the placenta’s crucial role in fetal development, understanding its impact on irradiation-induced IUGR is essential.
Glycoprotein E-Displaying Nanoparticles Induce Robust Neutralizing Antibodies and T-Cell Response against Varicella Zoster Virus
Authors: Wang Hong , Zhang Sibo , Xue Wenhui , Zeng Yarong , Liu Liqin , Cui Lingyan , Liu Hongjing , Zhang Yuyun , Chen Lin , Nie Meifeng , Zhang Rongwei , Chen Zhenqin , Hong Congming , Zheng Qingbing , Cheng Tong , Gu Ying , Li Tingting , Xia Ningshao , Li Shaowei
Published: September 2024

The Varicella zoster virus (VZV), responsible for both varicella (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles), presents significant global health challenges. While primary VZV infection primarily affects children, leading to chickenpox, reactivation in later life can result in herpes zoster and associated post-herpetic neuralgia, among other complications. Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for VZV prevention, with current vaccines largely based on the attenuated vOka strains. Although these vaccines are generally effective, they can induce varicella-like rashes and have sparked concerns regarding cell virulence. As a safer alternative, subunit vaccines circumvent these issues. In this study, we developed a nanoparticle-based vaccine displaying the glycoprotein E (gE) on ferritin particles using the SpyCatcher/SpyTag system, termed FR-gE. This FR-gE nanoparticle antigen elicited substantial gE-specific binding and VZV-neutralizing antibody responses in BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice—responses that were up to 3.2-fold greater than those elicited by the subunit gE while formulated with FH002C, aluminum hydroxide, or a liposome-based XUA01 adjuvant. Antibody subclass analysis revealed that FR-gE produced comparable levels of IgG1 and significantly higher levels of IgG2a compared to subunit gE, indicating a Th1-biased immune response. Notably, XUA01-adjuvanted FR-gE induced a significant increase in neutralizing antibody response compared to the live attenuated varicella vaccine and recombinant vaccine, Shingrix. Furthermore, ELISPOT assays demonstrated that immunization with FR-gE/XUA01 generated IFN-γ and IL-2 levels comparable to those induced by Shingrix. These findings underscore the potential of FR-gE as a promising immunogen for the development of varicella and herpes zoster vaccines.
Connecting Gene Variation to Treatment Outcomes in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Adenocarcinoma: Insights into Second-Generation Androgen Receptor Axis-Targeted Therapies
Authors: Vaz-Ferreira Ana , Tavares Valéria , de Melo Inês Guerra , Rodrigues Patrícia Rafaela , Afonso Ana , Maurício Maria Joaquina , Medeiros Rui
Published: September 2024

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed tumours among men. Second-generation androgen receptor axis-targeted (ARAT) agents, namely abiraterone acetate (AbA) and enzalutamide (ENZ), are currently used in the management of metastatic castration-resistant PC (mCRPC). However, the treatment is challenging due to the lack of prognostic biomarkers. Meanwhile, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have emerged as potential prognostic indicators of mCRPC. Thus, this study evaluated the impact of relevant SNPs on the treatment outcomes of 123 mCRPC patients enrolled in a hospital-based cohort study. The CYP17A1 rs2486758 C allele was associated with a 50% reduction in the risk of developing castration resistance (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.55; p = 0.003). Among patients without metastasis at tumour diagnosis and under AbA, a marginal association between YBX1 rs10493112 and progression-free survival was detected (log-rank test, p = 0.056). In the same subgroup, significant associations of HSD3B1 rs1047303 (CC/CA vs. AA; HR = 3.41; p = 0.025), YBX1 rs12030724 (AT vs. AA; HR = 3.54; p = 0.039) and YBX1 rs10493112 (log-rank test, p = 0.041; CC vs. AA/AC; HR = 3.22; p = 0.053) with overall survival were also observed, which were confirmed by multivariate Cox analyses. Although validation with larger cohorts is required, these findings suggest that SNPs could enhance the prognosis assessment of mCRPC patients, leading to a more personalised treatment.
Speed Analyses of Intersections Reconstructed into Roundabouts: A Case Study from Rijeka, Croatia
Authors: Šurdonja Sanja , Maršanić Robert , Deluka-Tibljaš Aleksandra
Published: September 2024

The reconstruction of a standard at-grade intersection into a roundabout is very often motivated by the need to improve traffic safety, and the effects are usually monitored through before–after analyses based on traffic accidents. As in some countries, like Croatia, data on traffic accidents are not available, in this study, a methodology for the estimation of roundabout implementation effects based on measured operating speeds was developed and applied. This methodology enabled the analysis of the development of roundabouts designed according to the Croatian guidelines through the analysis of four roundabout case studies. Statistical analyses of before–after operating speed were performed, and speed time distribution variations, traffic volumes, and design elements were analyzed, compared, and correlated. Statistically significant differences were found between operating speeds before and after the reconstruction, although the expected effect of speed reduction of roundabouts was not observed. The weak correlations observed between the individual design elements of the roundabouts and operating speed highlight the need to analyze the combination of design elements with operational speed. The application of the developed methodology enabled systematic safety analyses of the selected roundabouts. The results of the analyses suggest a need to revise the guidelines.
Application of Enhanced K-Means and Cloud Model for Structural Health Monitoring on Double-Layer Truss Arch Bridges
Authors: Gui Chengzhong , Han Dayong , Gao Liang , Zhao Yingai , Wang Liang , Xu Xianglong , Xu Yijun
Published: September 2024

Bridges, as vital infrastructure, require ongoing monitoring to maintain safety and functionality. This study introduces an innovative algorithm that refines bridge component performance assessment through the integration of modified K-means clustering, silhouette coefficient optimization, and cloud model theory. The purpose is to provide a reliable method for monitoring the safety and serviceability of critical infrastructure, particularly double-layer truss arch bridges. The algorithm processes large datasets to identify patterns and manage uncertainties in structural health monitoring (SHM). It includes field monitoring techniques and a model-driven approach for establishing assessment thresholds. The main findings, validated by case studies, show the algorithm’s effectiveness in enhancing clustering quality and accurately evaluating bridge performance using multiple indicators, such as statistical significance, cluster centroids, average silhouette coefficient, Davies–Bouldin index, average deviation, and Sign-Rank test p-values. The conclusions highlight the algorithm’s utility in assessing structural integrity and aiding data-driven maintenance decisions, offering scientific support for bridge preservation efforts.
NMR-Based Structural Insights on Folic Acid and Its Interactions with Copper(II) Ions
Authors: Kola Arian , Valensin Daniela
Published: September 2024

Folic acid (FA) is an essential vitamin involved in crucial metabolic processes, while copper(II) ions play significant roles in various biological functions. This study aims to investigate the interaction between FA and Cu2+ using 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy under different pH levels and concentrations. The research employed detailed NMR analysis to explore how Cu2+ binds to FA, focusing on changes in chemical shifts, diffusion coefficients, and copper-induced paramagnetic effects. The key findings reveal that Cu2+ predominantly coordinates with the pteridine ring (PTE) of FA, with minimal involvement from the glutamic acid (Glu) moiety. The interaction is strongly concentration-dependent: at lower FA concentrations, Cu2+ binds effectively to the PTE ring, while at higher concentrations, intermolecular interactions among FA molecules hinder copper binding. The study also observed pronounced paramagnetic effects on the PTE and p-aminobenzoic acid protons, with negligible effects on Glu signals. These results provide new insights into the structural characteristics of FA-Cu2+ complexes, contributing to a better understanding of their biochemical interactions and implications for folate metabolism.
Conventional Machining of Metal Matrix Composites towards Sustainable Manufacturing—Present Scenario and Future Prospects
Authors: Gutema Endalkachew Mosisa , Lemu Hirpa G.
Published: September 2024

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) epitomize a promising class of resources in modern manufacturing, offering an enhanced strength-to-weight ratio and high-temperature performance which make them ideal for applications demanding over conventional metals. However, their machining presents significant challenges due to their inherent material properties. The conventional machining methods including turning, milling, drilling, shaping, and the grinding of MMCs pose several challenges, facing limitations in terms of sustainability and efficiency. This paper explores the current perspective and prospects of the conventional machining techniques applied to MMCs, emphasizing sustainable manufacturing practices. Key aspects include the challenges posed by MMCs’ inherent heterogeneity, the MMC materials used, the MMC manufacturing process, the cutting constraints employed, tool wear, surface unevenness, surface integrity, and high energy consumption throughout machining. The study also explores promising advancements in tooling materials, cutting parameters’ optimization, innovative machining techniques aimed at minimizing the environmental impact and maximizing material utilization, and the strategies developed to overcome these challenges. The paper concludes by highlighting optimizing tools, and processes, and adopting emerging optimization techniques and opportunities for further research aimed at the industry, allowing it to move towards more efficient, eco-friendly production methods.
Improving Electric Power Stability and Efficiency Using an Integrated Control System for Refrigerated Containers
Authors: Kim Heemoon
Published: September 2024

In this study, a method is proposed to minimize electrical load fluctuations and improve the efficiency of engine generator operation by managing refrigerated ship containers through an integrated control system. The proposed system actively controls the electrical load by assigning operational priorities based on cargo temperature deviations to existing independently operated refrigerated containers, ensuring that they operate only within the available power of the engine generator. As a result, the average specific fuel oil consumption can be reduced. A 70 h simulation of the refrigerated containers, a power system, and an integrated control system demonstrated in MATLAB/Simulink 2021b that the magnitude of electrical load fluctuations decreases from 37.6% to 9.6% of the engine generator’s rated power compared with the conventional operation of refrigerated containers. In addition, a 1.88% fuel saving is realized.
Experimental Study of Wave-Induced Pore Pressure Gradients around a Sandbar and Their Effects on Seabed Instability
Authors: Chen Mili , Zheng Jinhai , Tong Linlong , Zhang Jisheng , Luo Mengyan , Chen Ning
Published: September 2024

The position and morphology of offshore sandbars are highly dependent on wave conditions; however, the mechanisms driving sand movement by water waves remain elusive to scientists and coastal engineers. This study presents a series of experiments conducted in a wave flume to investigate the impact of wave-induced pore pressure gradients on seabed instability around a sandbar, observed in the Benin Gulf of Guinea. The Froude-Darcy similitude principle was developed to ensure the similarity of hydrodynamics and seepage forces between the experiments and field conditions. Pore pressure gradients and free surface elevations were measured using three arrays of pore pressure transducers and eleven wave probes, respectively. The results indicate a rapid increase in both the horizontal pressure gradient and the maximum downward pressure gradient during the shoaling process. Conversely, the maximum upward pressure gradient decreases prior to wave breaking. Wave-induced pressure gradients significantly influence seabed instability and sediment transport. The effective weight of sand particles is reduced by up to 52% due to the upward pressure gradient during the shoaling process, and momentary liquefaction is triggered by the horizontal pressure gradient near the breaking point based on the liquefaction criterion. When liquefaction occurs, shear granular flow forms on the seabed surface.
Siamese-Derived Attention Dense Network for Seismic Impedance Inversion
Authors: Wu Jiang
Published: September 2024

Seismic impedance inversion is essential for providing high-resolution stratigraphic analysis. Therefore, improving the accuracy while ensuring the efficiency of the inversion model is crucial for practical implementation. Recently, deep learning-based approaches have proven superior in capturing complex relationships between different data domains. In this paper, a Siamese-derived attention-dense network (SADN) is proposed, which incorporates both prediction and Siamese modules. In the prediction module, DenseNet serves as the backbone, and a channel attention mechanism is integrated into DenseNet to improve the weight of factors highly correlated with seismic impedance inversion. A bottleneck structure is employed in DenseNet to reduce computational costs. In the Siamese module, a weight-shared DenseNet is employed to compute the distribution similarity between the predicted impedance and the actual impedance, effectively regularizing the distribution similarity between the inverted seismic impedance and the recorded ground truth. The qualitative and quantitative results demonstrate the advantage of the SADN over commonly used traditional networks for seismic impedance inversion.
Epidemic Models with Varying Infectivity on a Refining Spatial Grid—I—The SI Model
Authors: Mougabe-Peurkor Anicet , Pardoux Étienne , Yeo Ténan
Published: September 2024

We consider a space–time SI epidemic model with infection age dependent infectivity and non-local infections constructed on a grid of the torus Td=[0,1)d, where the individuals may migrate from node to node. The migration processes in either of the two states are assumed to be Markovian. We establish a functional law of large numbers by letting the initial approximate number of individuals on each node, N, to go to infinity and the mesh size of the grid, ε, to go to zero jointly. The limit is a system of parabolic PDE/integral equations. The constraint on the speed of convergence of the parameters N and ε is that Nεd→∞ as (N,ε)→(+∞,0).
Learning Rate of Regularized Regression Associated with Zonal Translation Networks
Authors: Ran Xuexue , Sheng Baohuai , Wang Shuhua
Published: September 2024

We give a systematic investigation on the reproducing property of the zonal translation network and apply this property to kernel regularized regression. We propose the concept of the Marcinkiewicz–Zygmund setting (MZS) for the scattered nodes collected from the unit sphere. We show that under the MZ condition, the corresponding convolutional zonal translation network is a reproducing kernel Hilbert space. Based on these facts, we propose a kind of kernel regularized regression learning framework and provide the upper bound estimate for the learning rate. We also give proof for the density of the zonal translation network with spherical Fourier-Laplace series.
Analysis and Design for a Wearable Single-Finger-Assistive Soft Robotic Device Allowing Flexion and Extension for Different Finger Sizes
Authors: Chung Sung bok , Venter Martin Philip
Published: September 2024

This paper proposes a design framework to create individualised finger actuators that can be expanded to a generic hand. An actuator design is evaluated to help a finger achieve tendon-gliding exercises (TGEs). We consider musculoskeletal analysis for different finger sizes to determine joint forces while considering safety. The simulated Finite Element Analysis (FEA) response of a bi-directional Pneumatic Network Actuator (PNA) is mapped to a reduced-order model, creating a robust design tool to determine the bending angle and moment generated for actuator units. A reduced-order model is considered for both the 2D plane-strain formulation of the actuator and a full 3D model, providing a means to map between the results for a more accurate 3D model and the less computationally expensive 2D model. A setup considering a cascade of reduced-order actuator units interacting with a finger model determined to be able to achieve TGE was validated, and three exercises were successfully achieved. The FEA simulations were validated using the bending response of a manufactured actuator interacting with a dummy finger. The quality of the results shows that the simulated models can be used to predict the behaviour of the physical actuator in achieving TGE.
Diversification of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm Populations under Repeated Phage Exposures Decreases the Efficacy of the Treatment
Authors: Martinet Mark Grevsen , Lohde Mara , Higazy Doaa , Brandt Christian , Pletz Mathias W. , Middelboe Mathias , Makarewicz Oliwia , Ciofu Oana
Published: September 2024

Phage therapy has been proposed as a therapeutic alternative to antibiotics for the treatment of chronic, biofilm-related P. aeruginosa infections. To gain a deeper insight into the complex biofilm–phage interactions, we investigated in the present study the effect of three successive exposures to lytic phages of biofilms formed by the reference strains PAO1 and PA14 as well as of two sequential clinical P. aeruginosa isolates from the sputum of a patient with cystic fibrosis (CF). The Calgary device was employed as a biofilm model and the efficacy of phage treatment was evaluated by measurements of the biomass stained with crystal violet (CV) and of the cell density of the biofilm bacterial population (CFU/mL) after each of the three phage exposures. The genetic alterations of P. aeruginosa isolates from biofilms exposed to phages were investigated by whole-genome sequencing. We show here that the anti-biofilm efficacy of the phage treatment decreased rapidly with repeated applications of lytic phages on P. aeruginosa strains with different genetic backgrounds. Although we observed the maintenance of a small subpopulation of sensitive cells after repeated phage treatments, a fast recruitment of mechanisms involved in the persistence of biofilms to the phage attack occurred, mainly by mutations causing alterations of the phage receptors. However, mutations causing phage-tolerant phenotypes such as alginate-hyperproducing mutants were also observed. In conclusion, a decreased anti-biofilm effect occurred after repeated exposure to lytic phages of P. aeruginosa biofilms due to the recruitment of different resistance and tolerance mechanisms.
Carbon Nitride Nanosheets as an Adhesive Layer for Stable Growth of Vertically-Ordered Mesoporous Silica Film on a Glassy Carbon Electrode and Their Application for CA15-3 Immunosensor
Authors: Xing Jun , Wang Hongxin , Yan Fei
Published: September 2024

Vertically ordered mesoporous silica films (VMSF) are a class of porous materials composed of ultrasmall pores and ultrathin perpendicular nanochannels, which are attractive in the areas of electroanalytical sensors and molecular separation. However, VMSF easily falls off from the carbonaceous electrodes and thereby impacts their broad applications. Herein, carbon nitride nanosheets (CNNS) were served as an adhesive layer for stable growth of VMSF on the glassy carbon electrode (GCE). CNNS bearing plentiful oxygen-containing groups can covalently bind with silanol groups of VMSF, effectively promoting the stability of VMSF on the GCE surface. Benefiting from numerous open nanopores of VMSF, modification of VMSF’s external surface with carbohydrate antigen 15-3 (CA15-3)-specific antibody allows the target-controlled transport of electrochemical probes through the internal silica nanochannels, yielding sensitive quantitative detection of CA15-3 with a broad detection range of 1 mU/mL to 1000 U/mL and a low limit of detection of 0.47 mU/mL. Furthermore, the proposed VMSF/CNNS/GCE immunosensor is capable of highly selective and accurate determination of CA15-3 in spiked serum samples, which offers a simple and effective electrochemical strategy for detection of various practical biomarkers in complicated biological specimens.
C/Co3O4/Diatomite Composite for Microwave Absorption
Authors: Liao Yan , Wang Dashuang , Zhu Wenrui , Du Zhilan , Gong Fanbo , Ping Tuo , Rao Jinsong , Zhang Yuxin , Liu Xiaoying
Published: September 2024

Transition metal oxides have been widely used in microwave-absorbing materials, but how to improve impedance matching is still an urgent problem. Therefore, we introduced urea as a polymer carbon source into a three-dimensional porous structure modified by Co3O4 nanoparticles and explored the influence of different heat treatment temperatures on the wave absorption properties of the composite. The nanomaterials, when calcined at a temperature of 450 °C, exhibited excellent microwave absorption capabilities. Specifically, at an optimized thickness of 9 mm, they achieved a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −97.3 dB, accompanied by an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 9.83 GHz that comprehensively covered both the S and Ku frequency bands. On the other hand, with a thickness of 3 mm, the RLmin was recorded as −17.9 dB, with an EAB of 5.53 GHz. This excellent performance is attributed to the multi-facial polarization and multiple reflections induced by the magnetic loss capability of Co3O4 nanoparticles, the electrical conductivity of C, and the unique three-dimensional structure of diatomite. For the future development of bio-based microwave absorption, this work provides a methodology and strategy.
Generating Cytokines and Growth Factors for Functional Activity: Feasibility of Method Using MIF Protein
Authors: Osmani Hiba , Sharma Ishrya , Moonah Shannon
Published: September 2024

Cytokines and growth factors are signaling molecules that regulate a variety of biological processes. Understanding their role is essential for basic research and clinical utilization. Thus, cytokines and growth factors are widely used throughout research labs in a significant number of applications. Additionally, genetic polymorphisms result in variant forms of cytokines and growth factors, which can alter their function. Becoming more common, researchers will need to generate these important proteins and their variants themselves in functional forms for activity studies. The expression systems used to generate these proteins can have a major impact on their function. In some instances, post-translational modifications are needed to produce a functionally active protein, which can only be conducted using eukaryotic expression systems. Ideally, for functional relevance, a human expression system should be used for human-related research and applications. Most human cell-based expression systems primarily use HEK (Human Embryonic Kidney) cells; however, relying on just one cell type can lead to several issues, considering the variety of proteins derived from various cell sources. Here, we provide a protocol to effectively and efficiently generate functional recombinant proteins, taking into consideration the diverse range of proteins from different cell types throughout the human body.
The Physical Properties and Crystal Structure Changes of Stabilized Ice Cream Affected by Ultrasound-Assisted Freezing
Authors: Kamińska-Dwórznicka Anna , Kot Anna
Published: September 2024

In this study, the effect of ultrasound-assisted freezing with frequencies of 21.5 and 40 kHz, and a power of 2.4 kW in the chopped mode of milk ice cream in comparison to a standard freezer on the freezing course and formed crystal structure was examined. The first part of the research included the preparation of an ice cream mixture on the basis of skimmed milk with the addition of an emulsifier, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, ι-carrageenan and a reference mixture without stabilizer addition. Ultrasound-assisted freezing shortened the processing time of both stabilized and non-stabilized ice cream. Stabilized samples of milk ice cream exposed to ultrasound (US) at a frequency of 21.5 kHz were characterized by the most homogeneous structure, consisting of crystals with the smallest diameters among all of the tested samples, the size of which, after 3 months of storage at −18 °C, was 7.8 µm (for the reference sample, it was 14.9 µm). The ice recrystallization inhibition (IRI effect) in the samples after US treatment with a frequency of 40 kHz was also observed, regardless of the addition of stabilizers, which may suggest that sonication with these parameters could replace or limit the addition of these substances.
Data-Based Modeling, Multi-Objective Optimization, and Multi-Criterion Decision-Making to Maximize the Electro-Oxidation of Metoprolol over Boron-Doped Diamond Electrodes in a Flow-By Reactor
Authors: Regalado-Méndez Alejandro , Vizarretea-Vásquez Diego , Robles-Gómez Edson E. , Natividad Reyna , Escudero Carlos J. , Peralta-Reyes Ever
Published: September 2024

Metoprolol is a cardioselective beta-blocker drug often used to treat hypertension, but it is considered as a hazardous organic persistent contaminant in wastewater. In this study, a 2.5 L solution of metoprolol (50 mg/L) underwent electro-oxidation in a flow-by reactor using boron-doped diamond electrodes in the batch recirculation mode. The study used multi-objective optimization and multi-criterion decision-making to determine the optimal operating parameters. The response surface methodology and a central composite rotatable design were used with three factors (pH0: 5–8, I: 2.5–4 A, and Q: 0.8–1.7 L/min) to model the chemical oxygen demand’s (COD’s) removal efficiency and the total organic carbon’s (TOC’s) removal efficiency. The experimental responses were modeled by reduced third- and second-order polynomials with determination coefficients (R2) of 0.9816 and 0.9430. The optimal operating parameters were found to be pH0 5, an I value of 3.84 A, and a Q value of 0.8 L/min with an electrolysis time of 7.5 h, resulting in a maximum COD removal efficiency of 60.8% and a TOC removal efficiency of 90.1%. The specific energy consumption was calculated as 9.61 kWh/mg of TOC, with a total operating cost of 0.77 USD/L. In conclusion, this study showed that the electrochemical process is efficient and reliable for treating wastewater containing metoprolol.
An Adaptive Vehicle Detection Model for Traffic Surveillance of Highway Tunnels Considering Luminance Intensity
Authors: Wei Yongke , Zeng Zimu , He Tingquan , Yu Shanchuan , Du Yuchuan , Zhao Cong
Published: September 2024

Vehicle detection is essential for road traffic surveillance and active safety management. Deep learning methods have recently shown robust feature extraction capabilities and achieved improved detection results. However, vehicle detection models often perform poorly under abnormal lighting conditions, especially in highway tunnels. We proposed an adaptive vehicle detection model that accounts for varying luminance intensities to address this issue. The model categorizes the image data into abnormal and normal luminance scenarios. We employ an improved CycleGAN with edge loss as the adaptive luminance adjustment module for abnormal luminance scenarios. This module adjusts the brightness of the images to a normal level through a generative network. Finally, YOLOv7 is utilized for vehicle detection. The experimental results demonstrate that our adaptive vehicle detection model effectively detects vehicles under abnormal luminance scenarios in highway tunnels. The improved CycleGAN can effectively mitigate edge generation distortion. Under abnormal luminance scenarios, our model achieved a 16.3% improvement in precision, a 1.7% improvement in recall, and a 9.8% improvement in mAP_0.5 compared to the original YOLOv7. Additionally, our adaptive luminance adjustment module is transferable and can enhance the detection accuracy of other vehicle detection models.
A Remote Two-Point Magnetic Localization Method Based on SQUID Magnetometers and Magnetic Gradient Tensor Invariants
Authors: Zhang Yingzi , Liu Gaigai , Wang Chen , Qiu Longqing , Wang Hongliang , Liu Wenyi
Published: September 2024

In practical application, existing two-point magnetic gradient tensor (MGT) localization methods have a maximum detection distance of only 2.5 m, and the magnetic moment vectors of measured targets are all unknown. In order to realize remote, real-time localization, a new two-point magnetic localization method based on self-developed, ultra-sensitive superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometers and MGT invariants is proposed. Both the magnetic moment vector and the relative position vector can be directly calculated based on the linear positioning model, and a quasi-Newton optimization algorithm is adopted to further improve the interference suppression capability. The simulation results show that the detection distance of the proposed method can reach 500 m when the superconducting MGT measurement system is used. Compared with Nara’s single-point tensor (NSPT) method and Xu’s two-point tensor (XTPT) method, the proposed method produces the smallest relative localization error (i.e., significantly less than 1% in the non-positioning blind area) without sacrificing real-time characteristics. The causes of and solutions to the positioning blind area are also analyzed. The equivalent experiments, which were conducted with a detection distance of 10 m, validate the effectiveness of the localization method, yielding a minimum relative localization error of 4.5229%.
Effectiveness of Hospital Fit on Physical Activity in Hospitalized Patients: A Stepped-Wedge Cluster-Randomized Trial and Process Evaluation
Authors: van Dijk-Huisman Hanneke C. , Koenders Niek , Marcellis Rik G. J. , Smits Indy G. M. , Hoogeboom Thomas J. , Lenssen Ton A. F.
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the effectiveness of using Hospital Fit as part of usual care physiotherapy on the physical activity (PA) behavior of hospitalized patients compared to patients who received physiotherapy before implementation of Hospital Fit. In addition, a process evaluation is conducted. A prospective, multi-center, mixed-methods stepped wedge cluster randomized trial was performed at the cardiology and medical oncology departments of two Dutch university medical centers. Patients were included in the non-intervention or intervention phase. During the non-intervention phase, patients received usual care physiotherapy. During the intervention phase, Hospital Fit was additionally used. Mean time spent walking, standing, lying/sitting per day and the number of postural transitions from lying/sitting to standing/walking positions were measured using an accelerometer and analyzed using linear mixed models. A process evaluation was performed using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with patients and focus-group interviews with healthcare professionals. A total of 77 patients were included, and data from 63 patients were used for data analysis. During the intervention phase, the average time spent walking per day was 20 min (95% confidence interval: −2 to 41 min) higher than during the non-intervention phase (p = 0.075). No significant differences were found for mean time spent standing per day, mean time spent lying/sitting per day, or the number of postural transitions per day either. During the intervention phase, 87% of patients used Hospital Fit at least once, with a median daily use of 2.5 to 4.0 times. Patients and healthcare professionals believed that Hospital Fit improved patients’ PA behavior and recovery. Insufficient digital skills and technical issues were described as challenges. Although patients and healthcare professionals described Hospital Fit as an added value, no statistically significant effects were found.
Prediction of Vascular Access Stenosis by Lightweight Convolutional Neural Network Using Blood Flow Sound Signals
Authors: Wang Jia-Jung , Sharma Alok Kumar , Liu Shing-Hong , Zhang Hangliang , Chen Wenxi , Lee Thung-Lip
Published: September 2024

This research examines the application of non-invasive acoustic analysis for detecting obstructions in vascular access (fistulas) used by kidney dialysis patients. Obstructions in these fistulas can interrupt essential dialysis treatment. In this study, we utilized a condenser microphone to capture the blood flow sounds before and after angioplasty surgery, analyzing 3819 sound samples from 119 dialysis patients. These sound signals were transformed into spectrogram images to classify obstructed and unobstructed vascular accesses, that is fistula conditions before and after the angioplasty procedure. A novel lightweight two-dimension convolutional neural network (CNN) was developed and benchmarked against pretrained CNN models such as ResNet50 and VGG16. The proposed model achieved a prediction accuracy of 100%, surpassing the ResNet50 and VGG16 models, which recorded 99% and 95% accuracy, respectively. Additionally, the study highlighted the significantly smaller memory size of the proposed model (2.37 MB) compared to ResNet50 (91.3 MB) and VGG16 (57.9 MB), suggesting its suitability for edge computing environments. This study underscores the efficacy of diverse deep-learning approaches in the obstructed detection of dialysis fistulas, presenting a scalable solution that combines high accuracy with reduced computational demands.
Dividend Payments and Persistence of Firms’ Green Innovation: Evidence from China
Authors: Li Tong , Luo Nengsheng
Published: September 2024

Green innovation is an important driver for the sustainable development of the real economy and the realization of a green transformation. Previous studies have paid less attention to the relationship between dividend payments and the persistence of green innovation and neglected the mechanism of knowledge management on the relationship between the two. Using Chinese listed non-financial companies from 2007 to 2022, this paper empirically investigates the effect and mechanism of dividend payment on corporate green innovation persistence based on two perspectives: principal–agent theory and incentive theory, using Tobit and negative binomial models. It was found that there is a non-linear inverted U-shaped relationship between dividend payments and the persistence of green innovation. Dividend payments influence the persistence of green innovation through agency costs and knowledge management capabilities. Both independent director networks and knowledge spillovers have a positive impact on the relationship between the two. Based on firms’ characteristics, the inverted U-shaped relationship between dividend payment and green innovation persistence is found to be more significant for non-state-owned firms and high-tech firms. Depending on the shareholder type, the inverted U-shaped curve between dividend payments for shareholding managers and green innovation persistence is the steepest. This study enriches the relevant literature on green innovations. In addition, it provides companies with a reference for formulating appropriate dividend policies, improving knowledge management capabilities, and improving the persistence of green innovation at a firm level.