bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Different Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Intensities over Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex on Brain Electrical Activity and Heart Rate Variability in Healthy and Fibromyalgia Women: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Gomez-Alvaro Mari Carmen , Gusi Narcis , Cano-Plasencia Ricardo , Leon-Llamas Juan Luis , Murillo-Garcia Alvaro , Melo-Alonso Maria , Villafaina Santos
Published: December 2024

People with fibromyalgia (FM) exhibit alterations in brain electrical activity and autonomic modulation compared to healthy individuals. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) effects on brain electrocortical activity and heart rate variability (HRV), specifically targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in both healthy controls (HC) and FM groups, to identify potential differences in the responses between these groups, and to compare the effectiveness of two distinct tDCS intensities (1 mA and 2 mA) against a sham condition. Methods: Electroencephalography and electrocardiogram signals were recorded pre- and post-tDCS intervention. All participants underwent the three conditions (sham, 1 mA, and 2 mA) over three separate weeks, randomized in order. Results: No statistically significant baseline differences were found in the investigated HRV variables. In the FM group, 1 mA tDCS induced significant increases in LF, LF/HF, mean HR, SDNN, RMSSD, total power, SD1, SD2, and SampEn, and a decrease in HF, suggesting a shift toward sympathetic dominance. Additionally, 2 mA significantly increased SampEn compared to sham and 1 mA. In the HC group, sham increased DFA1 compared to 1 mA, and 2 mA induced smaller changes in SampEn relative to sham and 1 mA. No significant differences were found between FM and HC groups for any tDCS intensity. Conclusions: The effects of dlPFC-tDCS on HRV are intensity- and group-dependent, with the FM group exhibiting more pronounced changes at 1 mA and 2 mA. These findings emphasize the need for individualized stimulation protocols, given the variability in responses across groups and intensities.
Enhancing Data Completeness in Early Detection Pathway of Prostate Cancer: Integration of a Dashboard-Driven Feedback Tool to Improve Quality of Care
Authors: Maaren Lucas C. van , Aben Nanne , Kesteren Jolien van , Struben Veerle M. D. , Stals Maarten , Barwari Kurdo , Stárková Jana , van Muilekom Erik , Visser Jeroen , Postema Arnoud W. , van Alphen Matthias F. , Hagens Marinus J. , Boellaard Thierry N. , Heijmink Stijn W. T. P. J. , van Dijk-de Haan Margriet C. , van Leeuwen Pim J. , Mertens Laura S.
Published: December 2024

Background: Quality assurance in data collection is essential as data quality directly impacts the accuracy and reliability of outcomes. In the context of early detection of prostate cancer, improving data completeness is a key focus for enhancing patient care. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a data-driven feedback tool, visualized through a dashboard, in improving the completeness of data collection by healthcare professionals. Methods: A cohort of eight healthcare professionals were provided with a dashboard displaying weekly feedback on the completeness of 86 essential data items, including patient demographics, laboratory results, and imaging findings. A comparative analysis of data completeness was conducted for 577 patients enrolled in the prostate cancer early detection pathway, with 211 patients assessed before and 366 patients after the introduction of the dashboard. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney rank-sum test and Chi-square tests. Results: The implementation of the dashboard significantly improved data completeness across all healthcare professionals. The average completeness score increased from 0.70 (95% CI 0.67–0.76) before the dashboard’s introduction to 0.88 (95% CI 0.86–0.92) after its implementation, with a p-value of <0.001. Conclusions: The introduction of a data-driven feedback dashboard significantly enhanced data completeness within the prostate cancer early detection pathway. This improvement has the potential to positively impact the quality of care and to support the generation of high-quality data for future research.
Worldwide Prevalence and Demographic Predictors of Impacted Third Molars—Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pinto Ana Catarina , Francisco Helena , Marques Duarte , Martins Jorge N. R. , Caramês João
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Impacted teeth are a common phenomenon, in both young and adult populations, as extensively documented in the literature. This study aims to systematically assess the global prevalence of impacted third molars and to analyze their demographic predictors. Methods: The present review adheres to PRISMA guidelines and includes studies published until December 2023. Three databases (MEDLINE, LILACS, Cochrane) were searched, and studies reporting prevalence rates and demographic predictors of impacted third molars were selected for analysis. A meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model to calculate pooled prevalence and assess demographic variations. Results: This review yielded 98 studies involving 183,828 subjects. The pooled prevalence of impacted third molars was 36.9% [95% CI: 33.1–40.7%] per subject and 46.4% [95% CI: 36.7–56.1%] per tooth, with the highest rates in Asia (43.1% [95% CI: 34.6–51.7%]) and the lowest in Europe (24.5% [95% CI: 16.1–33.9%]). An odds ratio of 1.173 [95% CI: 1.021–1.347%] indicated a slightly higher likelihood of third molar impaction among women compared to men, and mandibular third molar impaction was more frequent than maxillary impaction. The meta-regression indicated insufficient consistency for the geographic area to be considered a source of heterogeneity in the prevalence of impacted third molars. Conclusions: The present meta-analysis highlights the substantial prevalence of impacted third molars worldwide and underscores the influence of demographic predictors. These findings may inform region-specific clinical guidelines and preventive approaches for managing impacted third molars.
Effects of Alpha-Lytic Therapy Withdrawal on Choroidal Parameters in Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome High-Risk Patients
Authors: Gioia Marco , De Bernardo Maddalena , De Luca Martina , Rosa Nicola
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the effect on choroidal parameters of drug withdrawal in patients taking α1 adrenergic receptor antagonist (ARA) inhibitors. Methods: In total, 32 eyes of 32 patients under alpha-lytic therapy, and 32 eyes of 32 control subjects, both scheduled for cataract surgery in the fellow eye, were included. EDI-OCT was performed in all patients and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), luminal choroidal area (LCA), stromal choroidal area (SCA), total choroidal area (TCA), and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) during the preoperative visit were compared with data approximately 1 month after alpha-lytic withdrawal. The same assessments were performed in the control group. Results: SFCT and LCA were significantly reduced in the patients 1 month after alfa-lytic therapy withdrawal (p < 0.05), whereas in the control group, no changes in choroidal parameters were observed. Conclusions: The data proved that α1ARA inhibitors affected choroidal vessels, whereas no modification of choroidal stroma was observed.
A Comparative Study of Electric Vehicles Battery State of Charge Estimation Based on Machine Learning and Real Driving Data
Authors: Ariche Salma , Boulghasoul Zakaria , El Ouardi Abdelhafid , Elbacha Abdelhadi , Tajer Abdelouahed , Espié Stéphane
Published: December 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) are rising in the automotive industry, replacing combustion engines and increasing their global market presence. These vehicles offer zero emissions during operation and more straightforward maintenance. However, for such systems that rely heavily on battery capacity, precisely determining the battery’s state of charge (SOC) presents a significant challenge due to its essential role in lithium-ion batteries. This research introduces a dual-phase testing approach, considering factors like HVAC use and road topography, and evaluating machine learning models such as linear regression, support vector regression, random forest regression, and neural networks using datasets from real-world driving conditions in European (Germany) and African (Morocco) contexts. The results validate that the proposed neural networks model does not overfit when evaluated using the dual-phase test method compared to previous studies. The neural networks consistently show high predictive precision across different scenarios within the datasets, outperforming other models by achieving the lowest mean squared error (MSE) and the highest R2 values.
A Method for Aliasing Metal Particle Recognition Based on Three-Coil Sensor Using Frequency Conversion
Authors: Wu Di , Xie Yucai , Wang Chenyong , Gu Xian’an , Gu Feng , Li Guoqing , Zhang Hongpeng , An Yunsheng , Li Rui , Gu Changzhi
Published: December 2024

The diesel engine on a ship is crucial as it serves as the primary power source, significantly influencing both the vessel’s efficiency and safety. Monitoring metal wear particles found in lubricating oil is essential for assessing the lubrication condition of mechanical equipment onboard and anticipating potential failures. Analyzing these metal wear particles allows us to gauge the wear status of bearing pairs within the machinery, thereby providing a technical foundation for routine maintenance activities. However, under real operating conditions, it can be challenging to prevent multiple metal particles from simultaneously passing through sensors. To address this issue, this research introduces an innovative three-coil induction sensor that employs a variable-frequency excitation technique to explore how induction and eddy currents interact. The findings indicate that when the excitation frequency changes, the peak value of the signal from 337 μm iron particles only increases by 3.35 times, while the peak value of the signal from 340 μm copper particles increases by 22.69 times. Consequently, this study recommends using changes in excitation frequency to differentiate between mixed metal particles made of various materials.
Intraspecies Variation Offers Potential to Improve White Rot Fungi for Increasing Degradability of Lignocellulose for Ruminants
Authors: Sonnenberg Anton S. M. , Nayan Nazri , Cone John W. , van Peer Arend F.
Published: December 2024

The aim of fungal treatment of organic matter for ruminants is the improvement of its degradability. So far, such treatment appears to be time-consuming and improvement has been modest. In previous work, we observed within three white rot species that there is modest (Ceriporiopsis subvermispora) or low (Lentinula edodes and Pleurotus eryngii) variation in fiber degradation in wheat straw during seven weeks of incubation. By extending and re-examining the data from all three species, we see that strains of C. subvermispora show the largest variation and improvement in the degradability of treated wheat straw. In addition, C. subvermispora also generated the highest absolute amount of degradable organic matter, a parameter not calculated before, but is very relevant for the economic feasibility of fungal treatment. In estimating fungal growth, we found no good correlation between an increase in ergosterol and a decrease in plant biomass, indicating a variation within fungal species of the ergosterol/fungal biomass ratio and/or a variation in carbon use efficiency, which has also not been analyzed before. This work contributes to the knowledge of how fungi degrade lignocellulose and further specifies what can be targeted for breeding to make fungal pretreatment economically feasible for upgrading organic waste streams into ruminal feed.
Multi-Class Classification of Human Activity and Gait Events Using Heterogeneous Sensors
Authors: Javed Tasmiyah , Raza Ali , Maqbool Hafiz Farhan , Zafar Saqib , Taborri Juri , Rossi Stefano
Published: December 2024

The control of active prostheses and orthoses requires the precise classification of instantaneous human activity and the detection of specific events within each activity. Furthermore, such classification helps physiotherapists, orthopedists, and neurologists in kinetic/kinematic analyses of patients’ gaits. To address this need, we propose an innovative deep neural network (DNN)-based approach with a two-step hyperparameter optimization scheme for classifying human activity and gait events, specific for different motor activities, by using the ENABL3S dataset. The proposed architecture sets the baseline accuracy to 93% with a single hidden layer and offers further improvement by adding more layers; however, the corresponding number of input neurons remains a crucial hyperparameter. Our two-step hyperparameter-tuning strategy is employed which first searches for an appropriate number of hidden layers and then carefully modulates the number of neurons within these layers using 10-fold cross-validation. This multi-class classifier significantly outperforms prior machine learning algorithms for both activity and gait event recognition. Notably, our proposed scheme achieves impressive accuracy rates of 98.1% and 99.96% for human activity and gait events per activity, respectively, potentially leading to significant advancements in prosthetic/orthotic controls, patient care, and rehabilitation programs’ definition.
How Do We Engage Customers in Official Activity in the Virtual Brand Community? The Effects of Enterprise-Generated Contents on Customer Engagement Behaviors
Authors: Yang Xiaoxi , Su Xinyi , Lin Jing , Liu Jiaqi , Miao Miao , Jiang Yushi
Published: December 2024

The rapid development of information and communication technologies has positioned virtual brand communities as key platforms for facilitating direct interactions between companies and customers. As part of this trend, enterprises are increasingly utilizing enterprise-generated content (EGC) to drive customer engagement within these communities. However, numerous enterprises struggle to achieve the desired levels of online interaction. This study seeks to address this challenge by systematically measuring the characteristics of EGC in brand communities and examining their effects on varying forms of customer engagement behaviors (CEBs). We categorize EGC characteristics into five dimensions and classify CEBs into three different levels based on engagement intensity. Using a large dataset of 21,850 EGC posts and corresponding customer behavior data, we employ text analysis and machine learning techniques to conduct a robust empirical analysis, revealing the complex relationships between EGC characteristics and CEBs. The findings reveal that media richness, information specialty, and information incentive of EGC positively influence higher-intensity CEBs, whereas more obvious information persuasiveness and information marketing fall short of driving active community engagement. This research not only uncovers the nuanced relationships between EGC characteristics and engagement behaviors but also contributes to the empirical results of EGC studies by applying large-sample text analysis methods. Furthermore, it provides valuable insights for enterprises aiming to optimize their content strategies to influence customer behaviors and achieve targeted marketing goals within virtual brand communities.
Unsung Heroes of Coronary Interventions: Indian Cardiac Surgeons and the Challenges of South Asian Coronary Anatomy and Physiology
Authors: Mehta Sameer , Puskas John , Sethi Yashendra , Reddy Murali Mohan Rama Krishna , Yadava Om Prakash
Published: December 2024

Background and significance: The coronary artery disease (CAD) epidemic has seen a logarithmic increase in morbidity and mortality over the past decade. Cardiovascular diseases account for about 19.1 million deaths annually—with 80% of reports coming from low and middle-income countries, which have been attributed to a lack of infrastructure, human resources, and financial coverage. In tandem with the developed world, India has also seen significant growth in interventional and surgical cardiovascular care. The dominance of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures in India has attracted the attention of the world. With this review, the authors aim to highlight the role of cardiac surgeons in India as the “unsung heroes” of coronary interventions. Observations: A pernicious atherosclerotic pathology develops in thendian population as a result of genetic and socio-cultural predispositions, which is further complicated by anatomical and physiological differences. The pathology manifests as a diffuse disease in relatively small caliber coronary arteries, necessitating the consideration of CABG over interventional procedures. Indian cardiac surgeons have stood up to the challenge and have powered health tourism to India from around the world due to the excellent success rate and long-term outcomes at a 50–80% lesser cost than most developed countries. Beyond the costs, a major highlight is the high rate of arterial bypass and off-pump surgery. These balance the unbridled exuberance of the interventional cardiology medical–industrial complex, providing a critical balance that benefits patients and improves acute and long-term outcomes. Conclusions: Indian cardiac surgery is now known globally not only for its affordability but also for the skill set and the quality of surgeons. The surgeons’ vast experience and risk-taking capacity have made them an indispensable part of the interventional cardiology team and has allowed a multidisciplinary collaboration that inspires the world. This is evident from the rising trend of medical tourism to India.
What Kind of Institutional Configuration Incentivizes Farmers’ Behavior in Ecological Value Co-Creation of Cultivated Land?
Authors: Zhang Siyu , Hu Weiyan , Chen Li , Zhang Yu , Wang Liye
Published: December 2024

Innovating institutional incentives and promoting multiple-subject interaction and cooperation to create ecological value of cultivated land are practical requirements for the sustainable protection of cultivated land and high-quality development of agriculture and rural areas. We performed a survey questionnaire of 862 farmers in the Wuhan Metropolitan Area and used the fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method to explore the institutional configuration effect of farmers’ behavior in the ecological value co-creation of cultivated land (FBEVCCL). The institutional configuration characteristics of the ecological value co-creation of cultivated land was analyzed, and we propose institutional optimization suggestions for the ecological value co-creation of cultivated land. The research results demonstrated the following: (1) A single institutional element does not constitute a necessary condition for the FBEVCCL, and it is necessary to analyze the institutional configuration effect. (2) Four institutional configurations lead to high-level FBEVCCL. Both formal and informal configurations have important impacts on the FBEVCCL, but the guidance, subsidies, and constraints of formal institutions are often the core driving factors, complemented by the shaping of farmers’ values to jointly enhance the FBEVCCL. The formal institutions of publicity and guidance, rewards and subsidies, and disciplinary constraints can to some extent replace each other. (3) The three institutional configurations lead to low-level FBEVCCL, and the lack of informal and formal institutions for incentives and punishments is the main reason for low-level FBEVCCL. In the future, we should further standardize the reward and punishment mechanism, enhance farmers’ green production skills, and sustainably enhance the behavior of farmers in the ecological value co-creation of cultivated land.
Enhancing Detailed Planning from Functional Mix Perspective with Spatial Analysis and Multiscale Geographically Weighted Regression: A Case Study in Shanghai Central Region
Authors: Liu Liu , Huang Huang , Yang Jiali
Published: December 2024

Detailed spatial planning serves as statutory guidance for regulating specific spatial functions, including public services, living conditions, and production spaces. It emphasizes meeting the comprehensive needs of the local population, making it crucial to understand the relationship between population distribution and the mix of various city functions, particularly in the era of urban regeneration. Therefore, this study utilized point-of-interest (POI) data representing land functions and population data to investigate these relationships via spatial analysis and Multiscale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR). Applied to the central urban area of Shanghai, the study reveals that the level of mixed land use and various functionalities affect population distribution at different adaptive scales. We also found a higher degree of functional mix does not always meet population needs. Although generally there is a positive correlation between functional mix and population distribution, they are not always closely bonded. The proposed method provides an efficient workflow for identifying the applicable scale of various functions to increase functional mix and attract the population, which can provide real-time evidence supporting detailed planning. Test results also reveal the less-considered space along the boundaries of administrative districts. We also found developing tools for detailed planning is an urgent need to facilitate cross-boundary cooperation and development, especially in the context of urban regeneration where they always are overlooked at the detailed planning level. By using open-sourced POI and population data, our proposed workflow can be easily applied to other cities or regions, enhancing their practical value for similar research contexts.
Lessons Learned from the Last Moments Captured of Traditional Small-Scale Land Use in a European Fen Meadow
Authors: Búzás Előd , Bódis Judit
Published: December 2024

Most of Europe’s semi-natural grasslands have been maintained by land use for thousands of years. Consequently, as a side effect of this type of land use, high grassland biodiversity was able to develop in those areas. Today, due to changes in land use, only fragments of the native grasslands and their biodiversity, especially in wetlands, remain. We conducted a study on changes in land use and the conservation context of a species-rich Hungarian fen meadow over 250 years. In addition to the main changes, we focused on sustainable grassland management. For our research, we built a geospatial database in which we attached great importance to georeferenced aerial photographs taken decades ago. To better understand what we can see in aerial photographs, we studied archived newspaper articles and conducted interviews. An aerial photograph taken in 1963 served as an exceptional illustration and data source for the key factors of sustainability and biodiversity. Our case study illustrates most of the major global problems affecting the European fen meadow (drainage, agricultural intensification, expansion of infrastructure networks, abandonment of farming). Based on our research, mosaic, adaptive, small-scale landscape use is necessary for the long-term sustainability of European wet grasslands and their special wildlife.
An Algebraic Proof of the Nishimura Theorem
Authors: Citkin Alex
Published: December 2024

An algebraic proof of the Nishimura theorem on one-generated Heyting algebras is presented.
(E)-1-(Benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)-5,6,6-trimethylhept-4-en-3-one
Authors: Rico-Molina Mario , Altarejos Joaquín , Salido Sofía
Published: December 2024

The title compound (1) was obtained within a project to synthesize analogs of the antiepileptic drug stiripentol. Compound 1 was synthesized by aldol addition of the lithium enolate of 4-(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)butan-2-one (2) to 3,3-dimethylbutan-2-one (3), followed by the dehydration of the resulting β-hydroxy-ketone under acid processing. The structure of 1 was established by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry.
Longitudinal Shear in Timber–Concrete Composites with Flexible Adhesive Connections—Experimental and Numerical Investigations
Authors: Śliwa-Wieczorek Klaudia , La Scala Armando , Derkowski Wit , Binder Eva
Published: December 2024

Timber–concrete composites are established structural elements to combine the advantageous properties of both materials by connecting them. In this work, an innovative flexible adhesive connection in different configurations is investigated. Load-bearing capacity, stiffness, and the failure modes were first experimentally investigated by performing push-out tests. Subsequently, a numerical evaluation using ABAQUS 2017/Standard software was carried out in order to develop a three-dimensional numerical model. The Cohesive Zone Model (CZM) is employed to represent the adhesive characteristics at the contact areas between the Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and concrete elements. Three different connection configurations were evaluated, each consisting of five push-out specimens. The study investigates the impact of bonding surface area and the alignment of prefabricated glue strips with the load direction on the connection’s longitudinal shear load-bearing capacity, stiffness, and slip modulus. In addition, the impact of cyclic loads and the impact of time on displacements were analyzed. The average load capacity of the full surface connection (type A) is 44.5% and 46.2% higher than the vertical adhesive strips (type B) and the horizontal adhesive strips (type C), respectively. However, the initial stiffness of the tested joints depends on the orientation of the prefabricated adhesive fasteners, being approximately 20% higher when the bonding elements are aligned parallel to the load direction compared to when they are oriented perpendicularly.
Improving the Antioxidant Properties of Tin-Based Perovskite for the Enhanced Performance of Near-Infrared Light-Emitting Diodes Through the Synergy of Sn and SnF2
Authors: Shen Yipeng , Chen Jianan , Si Yuhan , Xiao Zhengguo , Kang Kai , Tang Zhaobing , Wang Jing , Xiang Chaoyu
Published: December 2024

Tin-based perovskite has emerged as an excellent luminescent material due to its non-toxicity and narrow bandgap compared to lead-based perovskite. However, its tin ions are easily oxidized by oxygen, which leads to increased vacancy defects and poor crystallinity, presenting a significant challenge in obtaining high-quality perovskite films. In this context, we introduced an approach by synergistically adding SnF2 and tin powder into the precursor solution to enhance the antioxidation of Sn ions. This method effectively improved the crystallinity of the perovskite films, reduced the density of defect states, and enhanced the photoluminescence performance of the films. Based on these findings, we successfully fabricated tin-based near-infrared perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs). With a 20% improvement in the Sn2+ content in the film, we achieved a threefold increase in the external quantum efficiency of the devices, reaching 3.6%.
Synthesis and Phase Evolution of a Nanocrystalline FexCrNiAl (x = 1.0, 0.5, 0.25) High-Entropy Alloys by Mechanical Alloying
Authors: Yang Danni , Liao Mingqing , Huang Jingtao , Han Tianyi , Qu Nan , Wang Yalin , Zhu Jingchuan
Published: December 2024

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) with ultrafine grained and high strength can be prepared by mechanical alloying (MA) followed by sintering. Therefore, MA, as a unique solid powder processing method, has many effects on the microstructures and mechanical properties of the sintered bulk HEAs. This work focused on the alloying behavior, morphology, and phase evolution of FexCrNiAl (x = 1.0, 0.5, 0.25) HEAs by MA. The X-ray diffraction results show that the powders achieved a supersaturated solid solution body-centered-cubic (BCC) phase after MA; the crystalline size reached the nanoscale and was refined to ~80 nm. The morphology and composition of the alloyed powders were studied by scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy. The results indicate that the powder was decreased to 1.59 μm for Fe1.0 powder with excellent homogeneity in composition. There exists a phase transformation during high-temperature annealing, as the non-equilibrium BCC supersaturated solid solution phase transformed into the equilibrium phase of BCC and ordered BCC (B2) phases.
Magnetic and Biomedical Properties of Iron Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Vitex agnus-castus Extract
Authors: Kızılbey Kadriye , Köprülü Elif Nur , Temür Hatice , Canım Ateş Sezen , Özer Sevil
Published: December 2024

Magnetic nanoparticles have attracted significant attention in nanoscience and nanotechnology due to their unique physicochemical properties. These properties enable their great potential in various biomedical applications, such as hyperthermia, drug delivery, tissue engineering, theranostics, and lab-on-a-chip technologies. Physical and chemical methods are conventionally used for the synthesis of nanoparticles; however, due to several limitations of these methods, research focus has recently shifted towards developing clean and eco-friendly synthesis protocols while maintaining their desirable chemical and physical properties. In this study, iron oxide nanoparticles (FeNPs) were synthesized for the first time using the green synthesis method with extracts from Vitex agnus-castus. The structural and magnetic characterization of FeNPs was carried out using state-of-the-art techniques. The formation of FeNPs was confirmed by UV–vis spectroscopy. The morphology and size distribution were examined by a zetasizer and SEM, which showed agglomerated ring-shaped structures with a moderate size distribution among the nanoparticles. The crystalline structure and phase purity of the FeNPs were analyzed by XRD. FT-IR spectroscopy confirmed the attachment of bioactive plant molecules on the FeNP surfaces. The TGA results indicated the presence of organic molecules on the surface of the nanoparticles. Further studies including temperature-dependent magnetization and coercivity measurements were performed by PPMS and ESR, confirming the soft magnetic characteristics of synthesized FeNPs. Additionally, the dose-dependent toxicity and anti-cancerogenic effects of the FeNPs were screened towards the glioma cancer line (C6) and fibroblast cell line (L929) in vitro using an MTT assay. After 24 h of treatment, inhibitory concentration IC50 values of 26.51 µg/mL (l929) and 10.73 µg/mL (C6) were determined, respectively. These results suggest the potential of the synthesized FeNPs in developing new biocompatible systems for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. This study contributes to the growing demand for research in nanotechnology by offering a sustainable and effective green synthesis method for FeNPs, expanding their potential applications in nanomedicine.
Prediction of Fretting Wear Lifetime of a Coated System
Authors: Kim Kyungmok
Published: December 2024

This article proposes a model of predicting the fretting wear lifetime of a low-friction coating. The proposed model incorporates multiple factors that influence the fretting wear damage of coatings: the imposed contact load, imposed average velocity, coating hardness, and initial surface roughness of counterparts. The fretting wear lifetime of coatings, defined as the number of cycles critical to friction coefficient evolution, was collected from the literature. For the purpose of identifying parameters in the model, experimental fretting wear lifetime data were analyzed. The results show that the fretting wear lifetime of a coating can be described by an inverse power law regarding the contact load, imposed average velocity, and initial surface roughness of counterparts. In contrast, the fretting wear lifetime of a coating was observed to increase with increased coating hardness. It was observed that the exponents of the inverse power law varied with respect to the type of coating. The proposed fretting wear lifetime model enables the prediction of coating lifetime under various fretting conditions.
A Trinuclear Co(II) Complex Based on the Tris-Dioxolene Triphenylene Non-Innocent Bridge: Complementary Redox, Magnetic Behavior and Theoretical Calculations
Authors: Colin Aristide , Wang Yiting , Lambert François , Bridonneau Nathalie , Suaud Nicolas , Guillot Régis , Rivière Eric , Halime Zakaria , Guihéry Nathalie , Ohkoshi Shin-ichi , Mallah Talal
Published: December 2024

A trinuclear Co(II)-containing complex was assembled using the non-innocent hexahydroxytriphenylene bridging ligand. Cyclovoltammetry and spectroelectrochemistry studies revealed that the central ligand sustained four reversible redox events, leading to different species with diverse optical behavior. Complementary analysis of the molecular structure confirmed by ab initio theoretical calculations were consistent with the bridge in the tris-semiquinone (sq) state for the trinuclear complex. The exchange coupling among the electrons of the bridge resulted in a spin doublet (s = ½) localized close to one of the three Co2+ ions, as suggested by the experimental magnetic data. The central doublet underwent one large antiferromagnetic exchange coupling with one Co(II) and almost no coupling with the two other metal ions.
Inductor Current-Based Control Strategy for Efficient Power Tracking in Distributed PV Systems
Authors: Wang Wei , Dong Yaolin , Liu Yue , Li Ripeng , Wang Chunsheng
Published: December 2024

This paper presents an inductor current-based maximum power point tracking (IC-MPPT) strategy and a single-inductor multi-input single-output (SI-MISO) structure with energy storage battery for distributed photovoltaic (PV) systems. In this study framework, the duty cycle of each PV channel can be controlled independently based on the presented IC-MPPT strategy, and the components/sensors costs are reduced through the presented SI-MISO PV system structure. In addition, a model predictive control (MPC) method is presented to regulate DC bus voltage, by controlling the bidirectional converter in the battery circuit. The presented control strategies have been rigorously derived and experimentally validated, and the experimental results demonstrate that each PV module can rapidly and efficiently track to the maximum power point in less than 0.016 s, while the bus voltage is stabilized near the set value, with an overshoot of less than 2.6%.
The Approximation of Functions of Several Variables with Bounded p-Fluctuation by Polynomials in the Walsh System
Authors: Akhazhanov Talgat , Matin Dauren , Baituyakova Zhuldyz
Published: December 2024

This paper presents direct and inverse theorems concerning the approximation of functions of several variables with bounded p-fluctuation using Walsh polynomials. These theorems provide estimates for the best approximation of such functions by polynomials in the norm of the space under consideration. The paper investigates the properties of the Walsh system, which includes piecewise constant functions, and builds on earlier work on trigonometric and multiplicative systems. The results are theoretical and have potential applications in such areas as coding theory, digital signal processing, pattern recognition, and probability theory.
Solution of Fractional Differential Boundary Value Problems with Arbitrary Values of Derivative Orders for Time Series Analysis
Authors: Zhukov Dmitry , Zhmud Vadim , Otradnov Konstantin , Kalinin Vladimir
Published: December 2024

The paper considers the solution of a fractional differential boundary value problem, that is, a diffusion-type equation with arbitrary values of the derivative orders on an infinite axis. The difference between the obtained results and other authors’ ones is that these involve arbitrary values of the derivative orders. The solutions described in the literature, as a rule, are considered in the case when the fractional time derivative β lies in the range: 0 < β ≤ 1, and the fractional state derivative α (the variable describing the state of the process) is in the range: 1 < α ≤ 2. The solution presented in the article allows us to consider any ranges for α and β, if the inequality 0 < β/α ≤ 0.865 is satisfied in the range β/α. In order to solve the boundary value problem, the probability density function of the observed state x of a certain process (for example, the magnitude of the deviation of the levels of a time series) from time t (for example, the time interval for calculating the amplitudes of the deviation of the levels of a time series) can be captured.
Shrimp Lipid Bioactives with Anti-Inflammatory, Antithrombotic, and Antioxidant Health-Promoting Properties for Cardio-Protection
Authors: Cholidis Paschalis , Kranas Dimitrios , Chira Aggeliki , Galouni Evangelia Aikaterini , Adamantidi Theodora , Anastasiadou Chryssa , Tsoupras Alexandros
Published: December 2024

Marine animals, especially shrimp species, have gained interest in research, due to the fact that they contain a plethora of biomolecules, specifically lipids, which have been proven to possess many health benefits in various diseases linked to chronic inflammation or other exogenous factors. This review refers to the lipid composition of a large number of shrimp species, as well as the effects that can alternate the lipid content of these crustaceans. Emphasis is given to the potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antithrombotic properties of shrimp bioactives, as well as the effects that these bioactives hold in other diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and more. The various health-promoting effects deriving from the consumption of shrimp lipid bioactives and the usage of products containing shrimp lipid extracts are also addressed in this study, through the exploration of several mechanisms of action and the interference of shrimp lipids in these biochemical pathways. Nevertheless, further research on this cultivatable edible species is needed, due to their existing limitations and future prospects which are discussed in this paper.
Effects of Nicotine on the Thermodynamics and Phase Coexistence of Pulmonary Surfactant Model Membranes
Authors: Magalhães Fadi S. S. , Vieira Ernanni D. , Batista Mariana R. B. , Costa-Filho Antonio J. , Basso Luis G. M.
Published: December 2024

Phase separation is essential for membrane function, and alterations in phase coexistence by membrane-interacting molecules, such as nicotine, can impair membrane stability. With the increasing use of e-cigarettes, concerns have arisen about the impact of nicotine on pulmonary surfactants. Here, we used differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and electron spin resonance (ESR) to examine nicotine’s effect on the phase coexistence of two surfactant models: pure DPPC and a DPPC/POPC/POPG mixture. Our DSC analysis revealed that nicotine interacts with both membranes, increasing enthalpy and entropy change during the phase transition. ESR revealed that nicotine affects membrane fluidity and packing of DPPC more effectively than the ternary mixture, especially near the surface. MD simulations showed that neutral nicotine resides in the mid-plane, while protonated nicotine remains near the surface. Nicotine binding to the membranes is dynamic, switching between bound and unbound states. Analysis via ESR/van’t Hoff method revealed changes in the thermodynamics of phase coexistence, yielding distinct non-linear behavior. Nicotine altered the temperature dependence of the free energy, modifying the thermodynamic driving forces and the balance of non-covalent lipid interactions. These findings provide new insights into how nicotine influences pulmonary surfactant model membranes, with potential implications for surfactant function.
Leaching Kinetics of Iron Collector Containing PGMs
Authors: Kuzas Evgeniy , Sandalov Ivan , Kritskii Aleksei , Karimov Kirill
Published: December 2024

The leaching kinetics of an industrial iron collector containing PGMs (Pd, Pt, Rh) in HCl and HF solutions were investigated. The effects of the HCl concentration (2.74–6.86 mol/L), the HF concentration (1.46–7.50 mol/L), temperature (323–363 K), and leaching time (0–210 min) on the extraction of Fe into the solution and Si into the gas phase from the iron collector were studied. The HCl concentration had a negative effect on the extraction of Si, which decreased from 78.2% to 58.1% and from 97.4% to 87.2% in the time ranges of 0–30 min and 30–120 min, respectively. This occurred due to the accumulation of Fe2+ in the solution and its interaction with HF, which led to a reduction in both the HF concentration and the extraction of Si. In addition, there were diffusion difficulties of the Fe and Si extraction because Fe precipitated on the surface of the cakes in the form of thin-film conglomerates of FeF2. This was confirmed by the XRF and EDS results, indicating that F was present on the surface of the cakes. The processes of the Fe and Si extraction were diffusion-chemically controlled and diffusion controlled—the apparent activation energies decreased from 26.9 kJ/mol to 7.8 kJ/mol and from 2.2 kJ/mol to 2.0 kJ/mol in the time range of 0–120 min, respectively. Using the shrinking core model and the full factorial experiment model, the kinetic equations, the optimal parameters of iron collector leaching, and the extraction rates of Fe and Si were determined. These optimal parameters ensure the extraction of Fe and Si at the level of 95% with high leaching rates: the HCl concentration of 4.36 mol/L, the HF concentration of 6.93 mol/L, temperature of 363 K, and leaching time of 80 min.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Recent Advances in Micro/Nano-Fabrication
Authors: Liu Yao , Zhou Jinjie
Published: December 2024

This Special Issue of Micromachines, named “Recent Advances in Micro/Nano-Fabrication”, comprehensively dedicates the latest research on micro/nano-fabrication in various fields [...]
EchoTilt: An Acoustofluidic Method for the Capture and Enrichment of Nanoplastics Directed Toward Drinking Water Monitoring
Authors: Costa Martim , van der Geer Liselotte , Joaquim Miguel , Hammarström B. , Tanriverdi S. , Joensson H. N. , Wiklund M. , Russom A.
Published: December 2024

Micro- and nanoplastics have become increasingly relevant as contaminants to be monitored due to their potential health effects and environmental impact. Nanoplastics, in particular, have been shown to be difficult to detect in drinking water, requiring new capture technologies. In this work, we applied the acoustofluidic seed particle method to capture nanoplastics in an optimized, tilted grid of silica clusters even at the high flow rate of 5 mL/min. Moreover, we achieved, using this technique, the enrichment of nanoparticles ranging from 500 nm to 25 nm as a first in the field. We employed fluorescence to observe the enrichment profiles according to size, using a washing buffer flow at 0.5 mL/min, highlighting the size-dependent nature of the silica seed particle release of various sizes of nanoparticles. These results highlight the versatility of acoustic trapping for a wide range of nanoplastic particles and allow further study into the complex dynamics of the seed particle method at these size ranges. Moreover, with reproducible size-dependent washing curves, we provide a new window into the rate of nanoplastic escape in high-capacity acoustic traps, relevant to both environmental and biomedical applications.
Mechanisms of Polymyxin Resistance in Acid-Adapted Enteroinvasive Escherichia coli NCCP 13719 Revealed by Transcriptomics
Authors: Hwang Daekeun , Kim Hyun Jung
Published: December 2024

Acid adaptation in Escherichia coli can induce antimicrobial resistance (AMR), posing challenges to global public health. We investigated the effects of acid adaptation on antimicrobial susceptibility, gene expression, zeta potential, and the outer membrane (OM) properties of Escherichia coli NCCP 13719. The acid-adapted (AA) strain exhibited increased resistance to multiple antimicrobials, with minimum inhibitory concentrations for colistin and polymyxin B increasing eight- and two-fold, respectively. Transcriptomic analysis identified 2225 differentially expressed genes, including upregulated genes associated with resistance to cationic antimicrobial peptides such as arnCTE, marA, and tolC. The upregulation of the arn operon suggests modifications in lipid A of lipopolysaccharides (LPS), reducing the negative charge of the OM and decreasing polymyxin binding affinity. Zeta potential measurements indicated a shift toward a less negative surface charge in the AA strain, which is consistent with LPS modifications. The AA strain also showed decreased OM permeability, which correlated with increased resistance to antimicrobials that penetrate the OM. These mechanisms collectively diminish the efficacy of polymyxins and highlight the potential for environmental factors to drive antimicrobial resistance. In conclusion, the acid adaptation of E. coli NCCP 13719 enhances AMR through changes in gene expression and OM modifications, highlighting the need for careful control of acidic environments during the treatment of medical devices and wastewater from food processing to prevent the emergence of resistant strains.
Variations in the Bacterial, Fungal, and Protist Communities and Their Interactions Within Sediment Affected by the Benthic Organism, Snail Bellamya purificata
Authors: Hou Yiran , Zhang Yiyun , Jia Rui , Zhou Linjun , Li Bing , Zhu Jian
Published: December 2024

In aquatic benthic environments, benthic organisms have been found to regulate important biogeochemical characteristics and perform key ecosystem functions. To further explore the ecological impact of the snail Bellamya purificata’s, presence on the benthic environment, we employed high-throughput sequencing technology to investigate its effects on the bacterial, fungal, and protist communities in sediment and their intrinsic interactions. Our findings revealed that B. purificata’s presence significantly enhanced the diversity and evenness of the fungal community while simultaneously decreasing the diversity and richness of the protist community, and it also altered the composition and relative abundance of the dominant phyla across the bacterial, fungal, and protist communities. The snail B. purificata considerably altered the co-occurrence networks of the microbial communities, particularly by enhancing the intrinsic complexity of the protist community and by strengthening the interconnections among the protist, bacterial, and fungal communities. Notably, the proportions of specialists within the sediment bacterial, fungal, and protist communities declined due to the snail B. purificata. Its presence also notably expanded the habitat niche breadth for sediment bacteria and protists. In terms of community assembly, B. purificata shifted the fungal community assembly from being dominated by stochastic processes to being dominated by deterministic processes, whereas the protist community assembly shifted from deterministic processes to being dominated by stochastic processes. The mainly altered ecological processes in the fungal and protist assemblies were drift and homogenizing selection. Additionally, the presence of B. purificata resulted in a notable reduction in the sediment ON level and a significant increase in the ammonia, FA, and EN concentrations. Sediment properties, particularly FA and nitrate, were strongly correlated with microbial communities and were key contributors to changes in microbial community dynamics. These research findings not only broadened our understanding of the ecological impacts of B. purificata on benthic microbial communities but also highlighted its substantial potential in enhancing microbial community stability.