bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the effects of microencapsulated Lactobacillus salivarius and cowpea seed supplementation on broiler chicken growth and health status
Authors: Lefter Nicoleta Aurelia , Gheorghe Anca , Habeanu Mihaela , Ciurescu Georgeta , Dumitru Mihaela , Untea Arabela Elena , Vlaicu Petru Alexandru
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to assess the nutritional quality of cowpea seeds (cv. Doljana – CSD) and the impact of partially replacing soybean meal with CSD, along with the supplementation of microencapsulated Lactobacillus salivarius (LS), on the growth performance, selected carcass traits, biochemical plasma profile, tibia bone quality, and microbial populations in the ceca and excreta of broiler chickens aged 1 to 35 days. A total of 432 mixed-sex Ross 308 broiler chickens, aged one day, were randomly allocated to four groups, with 108 birds in each group, further divided into 6 pens containing 18 birds each. The experimental design featured a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, with two cowpea seed levels (CSD0 and CSD15%) and the presence or absence (Yes/No) of microencapsulated LS probiotic (0 and 1 g/kg feed). The experimental diets did not significantly influenced (p > 0.05) production performances. However, the production efficiency factor was notably higher in the CSD0 (336.8%) and CSD15 (332.2%) groups with LS compared to CSD0 (322.4%) and CSD15 (320.6%) groups without LS supplementation. Regarding carcass traits, the CSD15 group with LS supplementation exhibited higher dressing (70.69%) and liver (2.47%) percentages compared to the other groups. Plasma profile analysis revealed significant reductions (p < 0.05) in total cholesterol (from 115 mg/dL to 105 mg/dL) and triglycerides (from 54.80 mg/dL to 46.80 mg/dL) in the CSD15 group with LS supplementation compared to the CSD0 group, with or without LS supplementation. Moreover, the CSD15 group with LS had significantly higher total protein, albumin, and calcium levels and significantly lower (p < 0.05) uric acid levels compared to the CSD0 group, irrespective of LS supplementation. Tibia bone traits and minerals showed no significant effects. However, the pH exhibited a linear decrease from 6.90 in the CSD0 group without LS to 6.69 in the CSD15 group with LS supplementation. In terms of cecal microbial populations, Coliforms decreased from 7.14 CFU/g in the CSD15 group without LS to 5.48 CFU/g in the CSD15 group with LS. Significant alterations were also observed in Clostridium spp., E. coli, Enterococcus spp., and Staphylococcus spp. in the ceca and excreta of the CSD15 group with LS supplementation compared to the CSD0 group, with or without LS supplementation. Beneficial bacteria, specifically Lactobacillus spp., significantly increased in the cecal content of CSD0 (9.06 CFU/g) and CSD15 (9.01 CFU/g) groups with LS compared to CSD0 (8.41 CFU/g) and CSD15 (8.11 CFU/g) groups without LS. In summary, this study suggests that cowpea seeds can be used as a partial replacement for soybean meal in broiler chicken diets, and microencapsulated Lactobacillus salivarius can be employed as a probiotic supplement.
Chemical, Physical, and Degradation Characteristics of Ryegrass Cultivars Grown in Autumn and Winter for Dairy Cows
Authors: Sun Xuezhao , Chen Ao , Li Jianping
Published: October 2023

During winter and early spring, pasture supply is usually lower than the demand in New Zealand dairy farming systems and thus the ‘autumn saved pastures’ (stockpiling) are introduced to fill the gap. This study aimed to investigate the chemical, physical, and degradation characteristics of ryegrass pastures, the predominant forage in New Zealand, grown in autumn and winter. To serve as ‘autumn saved pasture’, nine ryegrass cultivars, comprising three types (three perennial, three hybrid, and three Italian), were grown in late autumn (Autumn) and early winter (Winter) and harvested after 7 and 9 weeks of regrowth, respectively. The experiment had two experimental factors: ryegrass type (or cultivar) and harvest season. These experimental factors were in a randomised block design with the forage plot as the experimental unit. The degradation characteristics were assessed in the rumen of fistulated cows using the in situ incubation technique. Perennial ryegrass had a greater neutral detergent fibre (NDF) concentration (468 g/kg dry matter (DM)) than the hybrid (435 g/kg DM) or Italian (414 g/kg DM) ryegrasses. Italian ryegrasses had the greatest soluble fraction of DM (64.2% vs. 46.7% and 40.7%) and the greatest degradation rate of an insoluble but degradable fraction of DM (0.221 vs. 0.189 and 0.145/h) than the hybrid and perennial ryegrasses. Compared with the Winter ryegrass, the Autumn ryegrass had a greater crude protein concentration (246 vs. 208 g/kg DM) and a greater NDF concentration (486 vs. 392 g/kg DM) but a lower calculated soluble carbohydrate concentration (152 vs. 263 g/kg DM). It is concluded that there are notable variations among the cultivars, highlighting distinctions in parameters, such as NDF concentration, soluble fractions, degradation rates, and nutrient content among the perennial, hybrid, and Italian ryegrasses, as well as the seasonal variations observed between autumn and winter growth. These findings will not only facilitate enhanced nutrition for dairy cows as they undergo the transition phase but also have practical implications for future research and dairy cow nutrition.
Analysis of the Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Pteronura brasiliensis and Lontra canadensis
Authors: Wei Qinguo , Wang Xibao , Dong Yuehuan , Shang Yongquan , Sun Guolei , Wu Xiaoyang , Zhao Chao , Sha Weilai , Yang Guang , Zhang Honghai
Published: October 2023

P. brasiliensis and L. canadensis are two otter species, which successfully occupied semi-aquatic habitats and diverged from other Mustelidae. Herein, the full-length mitochondrial genome sequences were constructed for these two otter species for the first time. Comparative mitochondrial genome, selection pressure, and phylogenetic independent contrasts (PICs) analyses were conducted to determine the structure and evolutionary characteristics of their mitochondrial genomes. Phylogenetic analyses were also conducted to confirm these two otter species’ phylogenetic position. The results demonstrated that the mitochondrial genome structure of P. brasiliensis and L. canadensis were consistent across Mustelidae. However, selection pressure analyses demonstrated that the evolutionary rates of mitochondrial genome protein-coding genes (PCGs) ND1, ND4, and ND4L were higher in otters than in terrestrial Mustelidae, whereas the evolutionary rates of ND2, ND6, and COX1 were lower in otters. Additionally, PIC analysis demonstrated that the evolutionary rates of ND2, ND4, and ND4L markedly correlated with a niche type. Phylogenetic analysis showed that P. brasiliensis is situated at the base of the evolutionary tree of otters, and then L. canadensis diverged from it. This study suggests a divergent evolutionary pattern of Mustelidae mitochondrial genome PCGs, prompting the otters’ adaptation to semi-aquatic habitats.
Analysis of Crop Consumption Using Scatological Samples from the Red-Crowned Crane Grus japonensis in Eastern Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Yokokawa Ayaka , Dong Wenjing , Momose Kunikazu , Iima Hiroko , Yoshino Tomoo , Izumi Kenichi , Kawai Yusuke , Amano Tomoko , Nakamura Tatsuro , Sawada Akira , Endoh Daiji , Nakajima Nobuyoshi , Teraoka Hiroki
Published: October 2023

Total DNA extracts from the intestinal contents of 60 flying red-crowned cranes (juveniles, subadults and adults) found dead in 2006–2021, and the feces of 25 chicks collected in June and July of 2016–2018, were used for PCR reactions with primers specific for 16 crops, followed by high-throughput sequencing. The most predominant crop detected was corn in adult and subadult cranes (61.7%). Other grains (barley, wheat, soybean) (5.0–8.3%) and vegetables (tomatoes, Chinese cabbage, etc.) (1.7–6.7%) were also detected in flying cranes. Surprisingly, some of the detected crops were not grown in the Kushiro and Nemuro regions. There was no significant difference in crop intake status in winter and that in other seasons for most of the crops. Corn (28.0%), soybeans (8.0%), wheat and beet (4.0%) were detected in crane chicks in summer, though the detection rates were generally lower than those in flying cranes. Alfalfa, which is not grown in eastern Hokkaido but is used in some cattle feed, was detected in some cranes. Rice, buckwheat, adzuki beans, common beans, potatoes and carrots were not detected at any life stage, indicating the preferences of red-crowned cranes. The results suggest that red-crowned cranes in Hokkaido are dependent on dairy farmers for their feed supply.
Editorial: Advances in Understanding and Rehabilitating Unilateral Spatial Neglect
Authors: Saj Arnaud , Ronchi Roberta
Published: October 2023

Unilateral Spatial Neglect (USN) is a frequent, very debilitating cognitive syndrome, in which patients fail to pay attention, perceive, and represent a part of the space in the side contralateral to the brain lesion [...]
Applying Natural Language Processing to Single-Report Prediction of Metastatic Disease Response Using the OR-RADS Lexicon
Authors: Elbatarny Lydia , Do Richard K. G. , Gangai Natalie , Ahmed Firas , Chhabra Shalini , Simpson Amber L.
Published: October 2023

Generating Real World Evidence (RWE) on disease responses from radiological reports is important for understanding cancer treatment effectiveness and developing personalized treatment. A lack of standardization in reporting among radiologists impacts the feasibility of large-scale interpretation of disease response. This study examines the utility of applying natural language processing (NLP) to the large-scale interpretation of disease responses using a standardized oncologic response lexicon (OR-RADS) to facilitate RWE collection. Radiologists annotated 3503 retrospectively collected clinical impressions from radiological reports across several cancer types with one of seven OR-RADS categories. A Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) model was trained on this dataset with an 80–20% train/test split to perform multiclass and single-class classification tasks using the OR-RADS. Radiologists also performed the classification to compare human and model performance. The model achieved accuracies from 95 to 99% across all classification tasks, performing better in single-class tasks compared to the multiclass task and producing minimal misclassifications, which pertained mostly to overpredicting the equivocal and mixed OR-RADS labels. Human accuracy ranged from 74 to 93% across all classification tasks, performing better on single-class tasks. This study demonstrates the feasibility of the BERT NLP model in predicting disease response in cancer patients, exceeding human performance, and encourages the use of the standardized OR-RADS lexicon to improve large-scale prediction accuracy.
Intranasal Delivery of Oncolytic Adenovirus XVir-N-31 via Optimized Shuttle Cells Significantly Extends Survival of Glioblastoma-Bearing Mice
Authors: El-Ayoubi Ali , Klawitter Moritz , Rüttinger Jakob , Wellhäusser Giulia , Holm Per Sonne , Danielyan Lusine , Naumann Ulrike
Published: October 2023

A glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive and lethal primary brain tumor with restricted treatment options and a dismal prognosis. Oncolytic virotherapy (OVT) has developed as a promising approach for GBM treatment. However, reaching invasive GBM cells may be hindered by tumor-surrounding, non-neoplastic cells when the oncolytic virus (OV) is applied intratumorally. Using two xenograft GBM mouse models and immunofluorescence analyses, we investigated the intranasal delivery of the oncolytic adenovirus (OAV) XVir-N-31 via virus-loaded, optimized shuttle cells. Intranasal administration (INA) was selected due to its non-invasive nature and the potential to bypass the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Our findings demonstrate that the INA of XVir-N-31-loaded shuttle cells successfully delivered OAVs to the core tumor and invasive GBM cells, significantly prolonged the survival of the GBM-bearing mice, induced immunogenic cell death and finally reduced the tumor burden, all this highlighting the therapeutic potential of this innovative approach. Overall, this study provides compelling evidence for the effectiveness of the INA of XVir-N-31 via shuttle cells as a promising therapeutic strategy for GBM. The non-invasive nature of the INA of OV-loaded shuttle cells holds great promise for future clinical translation. However, further research is required to assess the efficacy of this approach to ultimately progress in human clinical trials.
Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis-Induction in MCF-7 Cells for New Pd(II) Complex Based on s-Triazine Ligand: Synthesis, Single Crystal X-ray Diffraction Analysis and Structural Investigations
Authors: Alayyaf Abdulmajeed Abdullah , Barakat Assem , Al-Majid Abdullah Mohammed , Ali M. , Yousuf Sammer , Haukka Matti , El-Faham Ayman , Soliman Saied M. , Nafie Mohamed S.
Published: October 2023

The synthesis and X-ray structure analysis of the new [PdLCl2]*0.5 CH2Cl2 complex where L is hydrazono-s-triazine di-morpholine derivative, were presented. In the neutral inner sphere of this complex, the organic ligand L is acting as a NN-bidentate chelate via the pyridine and hydrazone N-atoms. The coordination configuration of the Pd(II) is completed by two chloride ions at cis-positions. The tetra-coordinated Pd(II) showed a distorted square planar geometry. The outer sphere comprised half methylene chloride molecule per [PdLCl2] as crystal solvent. The crystal stability is dominated by a number of weak C-H…N, C-H…Cl, and C-H…O non-covalent interactions. Based on Hirshfeld analysis, the H…H, N…H, H…Cl, O…H, Pd…C, and Cl…C intermolecular interactions contributed by 45.2, 9.3, 21.5, 5.8, 2.3, and 3.4%, respectively. DFT studies revealed closed shell characters for the Pd-N and Pd-Cl coordinate bonds. The net charge of Pd is also predicted to be 0.311 e and the amount of electron density transferred from the ligand groups is 1.689 e. The Pd(II) complex exhibited potent cytotoxic activity against MCF-7, HepG2, and A549 cells with IC50 values of 1.18, 4.74, and 5.22 μg/mL, compared to cisplatin with IC50 values of 4.1, 9.7, and 12.3 μg/mL, respectively. Additionally, it exhibited poor cytotoxicity against WISH cells with much higher IC50 values (IC50 = 37.2 μg/mL). Investigating apoptosis-induction, the Pd(II) complex induced apoptotic cell death by an 11-fold change in MCF-7 cells arresting the cell phase at the G0–G1 phase. Accordingly, Pd(II) complex can be developed as a promising anti-breast cancer agent.
Liberating and Oppressive Factors for Self-Directed Learning: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Vaičiūnienė Asta , Kazlauskienė Aušra
Published: October 2023

Self-directed learning (SDL) is one of the key competencies that provides the conditions necessary for adjustments to changes in the social context, and it should be developed from the early years of schooling. The effect of SDL on learners’ motivation and attainments has been proven, and its value in enabling learners to change has been substantiated. When applying it in practice, difficulties are faced because SDL-based pedagogy sets challenges for both school students and teachers. It is important to carry out a systematic analysis investigating factors that provide the conditions for the self-directed learning of students. A systematic analysis (applying methods of systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA)) allows us to emphasize that the liberating factors of SDL include learning environments (support/scaffolding, teaching and learning strategies, physical environment and technological resources, autonomy, assessment and self-assessment, feedback, sustainable and positive climate), obtained knowledge, abilities (self-efficacy, cognitive competence, time management, meta-learning skills), and the learner’s proactivity (collaboration, meeting learners’ needs, possibilities, search for learning support, and raising questions). The oppressive factors of SDL when dealing with learning environments for both learners and teachers (learning load, teaching and learning strategies, teacher power, anxiety, negative emotions, assessment, absence of feedback, control, lack of learning support) as well as educational institutions (teacher support, learning facilities, culture of encouragement and support) are discussed.
STS and PUDP Deletion Identified by Targeted Panel Sequencing with CNV Analysis in X-Linked Ichthyosis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Park Joonhong , Cho Yong Gon , Kim Jin Kyu , Kim Hyun Ho
Published: October 2023

X-linked recessive ichthyosis (XLI) is clinically characterized by dark brown, widespread dryness with polygonal scales. We describe the identification of STS and PUDP deletions using targeted panel sequencing combined with copy-number variation (CNV) analysis in XLI. A 9-month-old infant was admitted for genetic counseling. Since the second day after birth, the infant’s skin tended to be dry and polygonal scales had accumulated over the abdomen and upper extremities. The infant’s maternal uncle and brother (who had also exhibited similar skin symptoms from birth) presented with polygonal scales on their trunks. CNV analysis revealed a hemizygous deletion spanning 719.3 Kb on chromosome Xp22 (chrX:7,108,996–7,828,312), which included a segment of the STS gene and exhibited a Z ratio of −2 in the proband. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) confirmed this interstitial Xp22.31 deletion. Our report underscores the importance of implementing CNV screening techniques, including sequencing data analysis and gene dosage assays such as MLPA, to detect substantial deletions that encompass the STS gene region of Xq22 in individuals suspected of having XLI.
Analysis of the Health Examination Service Process Using Service Blueprint: Focus on the Older Adult Patient in South Korea
Authors: Kim Donghee , Cho Jungeun
Published: October 2023

As the older adult population grows, the paradigm of aging is shifting from simply living longer to living longer while maintaining health. This shift has led to a transformation in healthcare from passive to proactive approaches, emphasizing disease prevention. Health examination services have seen significant growth as they transition from being solely diagnostic processes to crucial tools for disease prevention. This study focuses on the health examination service industry, particularly in the context of the older adult population, and aims to develop a service blueprint to identify challenges and solutions in utilizing these services. The research employs the service blueprint methodology to map out the health examination service process comprehensively. The distinction is made between customer interactions and internal procedures that are observable and those that are not. Through a comprehensive analysis of the service process, it is possible to identify potential instances of customer unhappiness. These instances primarily occur during the initial interaction between older clients and the service, as well as when they receive their examination findings. There are several factors that contribute to discontent among individuals, namely the insufficient comprehension of the needs of the aged by service providers and the provision of substandard facilities. The study suggests strategies to improve customer satisfaction, such as dedicated personnel for older adult assistance, specialized education for staff, and better facilities tailored for older adult patients. Furthermore, the research highlights the significance of effectively addressing both areas of critical discontent and elements that enhance satisfaction in the process of service design. This research provides a detailed analysis of health examination services for the older adult, highlighting opportunities for improvement through enhanced customer experiences and specialized services.
Top-Down Models across CPU Architectures: Applicability and Comparison in a High-Performance Computing Environment
Authors: Banchelli Fabio , Garcia-Gasulla Marta , Mantovani Filippo
Published: October 2023

Top-Down models are defined by hardware architects to provide information on the utilization of different hardware components. The target is to isolate the users from the complexity of the hardware architecture while giving them insight into how efficiently the code uses the resources. In this paper, we explore the applicability of four Top-Down models defined for different hardware architectures powering state-of-the-art HPC clusters (Intel Skylake, Fujitsu A64FX, IBM Power9, and Huawei Kunpeng 920) and propose a model for AMD Zen 2. We study a parallel CFD code used for scientific production to compare these five Top-Down models. We evaluate the level of insight achieved, the clarity of the information, the ease of use, and the conclusions each allows us to reach. Our study indicates that the Top-Down model makes it very difficult for a performance analyst to spot inefficiencies in complex scientific codes without delving deep into micro-architecture details.
Lightweight Scheme to Capture Stock Market Sentiment on Social Media Using Sparse Attention Mechanism: A Case Study on Twitter
Authors: Wu Sihan , Gu Fuyu
Published: October 2023

Over through the years, people have invested in stock markets in order to maximize their profit from the money they possess. Financial sentiment analysis is an important topic in stock market businesses since it helps investors to understand the overall sentiment towards a company and the stock market, which helps them make better investment decisions. Recent studies show that stock sentiment has strong correlations with the stock market, and we can effectively monitor public sentiment towards the stock market by leveraging social media data. Consequently, it is crucial to develop a model capable of reliably and quickly capturing the sentiment of the stock market. In this paper, we propose a novel and effective sequence-to-sequence transformer model, optimized using a sparse attention mechanism, for financial sentiment analysis. This approach enables investors to understand the overall sentiment towards a company and the stock market, thereby aiding in better investment decisions. Our model is trained on a corpus of financial news items to predict sentiment scores for financial companies. When benchmarked against other models like CNN, LSTM, and BERT, our model is “lightweight” and achieves a competitive latency of 10.3 ms and a reduced computational complexity of 3.2 GFLOPS—which is faster than BERT’s 12.5 ms while maintaining higher computational complexity. This research has the potential to significantly inform decision making in the financial sector.
Hydrogen Diffusion in Nickel Superalloys: Electrochemical Permeation Study and Computational AI Predictive Modeling
Authors: Román-Sedano Alfonso Monzamodeth , Campillo Bernardo , Villalobos Julio C. , Castillo Fermín , Flores Osvaldo
Published: October 2023

Ni-based superalloys are materials utilized in high-performance services that demand excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. Its usages can include fuel storage, gas turbines, petrochemistry, and nuclear reactor components, among others. On the other hand, hydrogen (H), in contact with metallic materials, can cause a phenomenon known as hydrogen embrittlement (HE), and its study related to the superalloys is fundamental. This is related to the analysis of the solubility, diffusivity, and permeability of H and its interaction with the bulk, second-phase particles, grain boundaries, precipitates, and dislocation networks. The aim of this work was mainly to study the effect of chromium (Cr) content on H diffusivity in Ni-based superalloys; additionally, the development of predictive models using artificial intelligence. For this purpose, the permeability test was employed based on the double cell experiment proposed by Devanathan–Stachurski, obtaining the effective diffusion coefficient (Deff), steady-state flux (Jss), and the trap density (NT) for the commercial and experimentally designed and manufactured Ni-based superalloys. The material was characterized with energy-dispersed X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), atomic absorption, CHNS/O chemical analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), brightfield optical microscopy (OM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). On the other hand, predictive models were developed employing artificial neural networks (ANNs) using experimental results as a database. Furthermore, the relative importance of the main parameters related to the H diffusion was calculated. The Deff, Jss, and NT achieved showed relatively higher values considering those reported for Ni alloys and were found in the following orders of magnitude: [1 × 10−8, 1 × 10−11 m2/s], [1 × 10−5, 9 × 10−7 mol/cm2s], and [7 × 1025 traps/m3], respectively. Regarding the predictive models, linear correlation coefficients of 0.96 and 0.80 were reached, corresponding to the Deff and Jss. Due to the results obtained, it was suitable to dismiss the effect of Cr in solid solution on the H diffusion. Finally, the predictive models developed can be considered for the estimation of Deff and Jss as functions of the characterized features.
Effect of Supplementation of Chlorogenic Acid to High-Fat Diet on Growth, Lipid Metabolism, Intestinal and Hepatic Histology, and Gut Microbiota of Spotted Sea Bass (Lateolabrax maculatus)
Authors: Ma Jianrong , Kong Lumin , Zhou Sishun , Lin Hao , Lin Yi , Qin Huihui , Long Zhongying , Liu Longhui , Huang Zhangfan , Li Zhongbao
Published: October 2023

The study investigated the impact of chlorogenic acid (CGA) supplementation in a high-fat diet (HFD) on growth, lipid metabolism, intestinal and hepatic histology, as well as gut microbiota in spotted sea bass. A total of 540 fish were fed six experimental diets, including a normal fat diet (NFD), a high-fat diet (HFD), and HFD supplemented with 100, 200, 300, and 400 mg/kg CGA (named HFD1, HFD2, HFD3, and HFD4, respectively) for 7 weeks. The results showed that HFD feeding increased growth and hepatic lipid deposition compared to that in the NFD group. Inclusion of 300 mg/kg CGA in HFD decreased the HFD-induced hyperlipemia (p < 0.05). Additionally, compared to the HFD group, the HFD4 group showed significant reductions in serum aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels as well as hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) content, while also improving liver total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (p < 0.05). In the CGA-containing groups, hepatocytes were arranged more neatly than those in the HFD group, and there was a reduction in lipid deposition and hemolysis in the liver. Supplementation of CGA had effects on intestinal structure including an increase in mucosal thickness, as well as villus number and width. The diversity of intestinal flora in the CGA-containing groups was higher than those in the HFD group, and supplementation of 200 mg/kg CGA significantly increased the abundance of intestinal bacteria (p < 0.05). HFD4 feeding increased the intestinal Bacteroidetes to Firmicutes ratio and decreased the abundance of Vibrio. The highest value abundance of Actinobacteriota was found in the HFD2 group. Overall, HFD caused negative effects, and supplementation of 200–400 mg/kg CGA to HFD improved fat deposition, lipid metabolic disorders and liver and gut histology, and increased gut bacterial diversity in spotted sea bass.
A 110–170 GHz Wideband LNA Design Using the InP Technology for Terahertz Communication Applications
Authors: Hu Lian , Yang Ziqiang , Fang Yuan , Li Qingfeng , Miao Yixuan , Lu Xiaofeng , Sun Xuechun , Zhang Yaxin
Published: October 2023

This paper proposes a low-noise amplifier (LNA) for terahertz communication systems. The amplifier is designed based on 90 nm InP high-electron-mobility transistor (HEMT) technology. In order to achieve high gain of LNA, the proposed amplifier adopts a five-stage amplification structure. At the same time, the use of staggered tuning technology has achieved a large bandwidth of terahertz low-noise amplification. In addition, capacitors are used for interstage isolation, sector lines are used for RF bypass, and Microstrip is used to design matching circuits. The entire LNA circuit was validated using accurate electromagnetic simulation. The simulation results show that at 140 GHz, the small signal gain is 25 dB, the noise figure is 4.4 dB, the input 1 dB compression point is −19 dBm, and the 3 dB bandwidth reaches 60 GHz (110–170 GHz), which validates the effectiveness of the design.
New Advances in Viral and Microorganism Disinfectants
Authors: Onodera Takashi , Kirisawa Rikio
Published: October 2023

Nanomaterials are used to develop simpler, cheaper, and faster methods for disease diagnosis [...]
Thermal Stability and Resistance to Biodegradation of Humic Acid Adsorbed on Clay Minerals
Authors: Danilin Igor , Tolpeshta Inna , Izosimova Yulia , Pozdnyakov Lev , Stepanov Andrey , Salimgareeva Olga
Published: October 2023

This article studies sorption regularities and evaluates thermal stability and resistance to microbial degradation of humic acid during three sorption cycles on bentonite clay, kaolinite, and muscovite using TGA/DSC, XRD, hydrophobic chromatography, light and electron microscopy, etc. The experiment revealed that kaolinite sorbed more humic acids (HAs) in terms of unit surface area (1.03 × 10−3 C, g/m2) compared to bentonite (0.35 × 10−3 C, g/m 10−3 g/m2). Sorption at pH 4.5 showed HA fractionation in amphiphilicity and chemical composition. HA was sorbed on the surface of all sorbents, mainly via hydrophobic components. No intercalation of HA into the interlayer spaces of montmorillonite was observed during sorption. Sorption via hydrophilic interactions was mostly performed on muscovite and bentonite rather than on kaolinite. Sorption of HA resulted in changes in its chemical composition and decreased C/N compared to free HA, which demonstrated selective sorption of nitrogen-containing compounds more typical of muscovite. All minerals adsorbed only a relatively thermolabile HA fraction, while its thermal stability increased compared to that before the experiment. The thermal stability and ratio of the Exo2/Exo1 peak areas on the DSC curves of sorbed HA increased with each subsequent sorption cycle. We revealed the following relationship between thermal stability and resistance to microbial oxidation of the sorbed HA: The higher the thermal stability, the less available the sorbed HA becomes for utilization by microorganisms.
Controlled Memristic Behavior of Metal-Organic Framework as a Promising Memory Device
Authors: Li Lei
Published: October 2023

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted considerable interests for sensing, electrochemical, and catalytic applications. Most significantly, MOFs with highly accessible sites on their surface have promising potential for applications in high-performance computing architecture. In this paper, Mg-MOF-74 (a MOF built of Mg(II) ions linked by 2,5-dioxido-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate (DOBDC) ligands) and graphene oxide composites (Mg-MOF-74@GO) were first used as an active layer to fabricate ternary memory devices. A comprehensive investigation of the multi-bit data storage performance for Mg-MOF-74@GO composites was discussed and summarized. Moreover, the structure change of Mg-MOF-74@GO after introducing GO was thoroughly studied. The as-fabricated resistive random access memory (RRAM) devices exhibit a ternary memristic behavior with low SET voltage, an RHRS/RIRS/RLRS ratio of 103:102:1, superior retention (>104 s), and reliability performance (>102 cycles). Herein, Mg-MOF-74@GO composite films in constructing memory devices were presented with GO-mediated ternary memristic properties, where the distinct resistance states were controlled to achieve multi-bit data storage. The hydrogen bonding system and defects of GO adsorbed in Mg-MOF-74 are the reason for the ternary memristic behavior. The charge trapping assisted hopping is proposed as the operation mechanism, which is further confirmed by XRD and Raman spectra. The GO-mediated Mg-MOF-74 memory device exhibits potential applications in ultrahigh-density information storage systems and in-memory computing paradigms.
Thermal Transport and Rheological Properties of Hybrid Nanofluids Based on Vegetable Lubricants
Authors: Ribeiro Hélio , Taha-Tijerina Jose Jaime , Gomez Ofelia , Acosta Ever , Pinto Gabriel M. , Moraes Lorena R. C. , Fechine Guilhermino J. M. , Andrade Ricardo J. E. , Reinoza Jefferson , Padilla Victoria , Lozano Karen
Published: October 2023

Nanofluids based on vegetal oil with different wt.% of carbon nanotubes (CNT), hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), and its hybrid (h-BN@CNT) were produced to investigate the effects of these nano-additives on the thermal conductivity and rheological properties of nanofluids. Stable suspensions of these oil/nanostructures were produced without the use of stabilizing agents. The dispersed nanostructures were investigated by SEM, EDS, XRD, and XPS, while the thermal conductivity and rheological characteristics were studied by a transient hot-wire method and steady-state flow tests, respectively. Increases in thermal conductivity of up to 39% were observed for fluids produced with 0.5 wt.% of the hybrid nanomaterials. As for the rheological properties, it was verified that both the base fluid and the h-BN suspensions exhibited Newtonian behavior, while the presence of CNT modified this tendency. This change in behavior is attributed to the hydrophobic character of both CNT and the base oil, while h-BN nanostructures have lip-lip “bonds”, giving it a partial ionic character. However, the combination of these nanostructures was fundamental for the synergistic effect on the increase of thermal conductivity with respect to their counterparts.
Relationship between Dietary Decanoic Acid and Coronary Artery Disease: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wu Zhijian , Yang Weichang , Li Meng , Li Fengyuan , Gong Ren , Wu Yanqing
Published: October 2023

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a cardiovascular disease with significant personal health and socioeconomic consequences. The biological functions of decanoic acid and the pathogenesis of CAD overlap considerably; however, studies exploring their relationship are limited. Methods: Data from 34,186 Americans from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2003 to 2018 were analyzed. The relationship between dietary decanoic acid (DDA) and CAD prevalence was explored using weighted multivariate logistic regression models, generalized summation models, and fitted smoothing curves. Stratified analyses and interaction tests were conducted to explore the potential modifiers between them. Results: DDA was negatively associated with CAD prevalence, with each 1 g/d increase in the DDA being associated with a 21% reduction in CAD prevalence (odds ratio (OR) 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.61–1.02). This relationship persisted after log10 and trinomial transformations, respectively. The OR after log10 transformation was 0.81 (95% CI 0.69–0.96), and the OR for tertile 3 compared with tertile 1 was 0.83 (95% CI 0.69–1.00). The subgroup analyses found this relationship to be significant among males and non-Hispanic white individuals, and there was a significant interaction (interaction p-values of 0.011 and 0.012, respectively). Conclusions: DDA was negatively associated with the prevalence of CAD, and both sex and race may modify this relationship.
The Design and Impact of a Clinic-Based Community Program on Food Insecurity, Healthy Eating Behaviors, and Mood
Authors: Ardoin Tiffany Wesley , Perry Elizabeth , Morgan Chelsea , Hymowitz Jared , Mercante Donald
Published: October 2023

Food insecurity is a national issue that disproportionately impacts Louisiana citizens, contributing to the state’s poor health outcomes. We know that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and food pantries improve access to food, but we have limited data on what interventions improve food insecurity. The Geaux Get Healthy Clinical Program at Our Lady of the Lake (GGHOLOL) is a clinic-based community program that leverages community partnerships and a clinical setting to provide education and access to resources for individuals with food insecurity. This prospective study examines the impact of GGHOLOL on food insecurity as a pre-post survey evaluation over a two-year period. A total of 57 research participants with food insecurity completed the program. Mean food security scores improved at completion of GGHOLOL, and these scores further improved 6 months after enrollment. Furthermore, participants demonstrated sustainable improvements in healthy eating, cooking, and shopping behaviors. Lastly, participants improved their overall depression scores at the completion of the program with sustainable improvement at 6 months. With the improvement in GGHOLOL on food insecurity and nutrition behaviors, GGHOLOL may serve as a model for other programs addressing food insecurity in the future.
Frailty-Preventing Effect of an Intervention Program Using a Novel Complete Nutritional “COMB-FP Meal”: A Pilot Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Nakazeko Takuo , Shobako Naohisa , Shioya Nobuhiko , Iwama Yoshitaka , Hirano Yukio , Fujii Shintaro , Nakamura Futoshi , Honda Keiko
Published: October 2023

Frailty is a huge concern for the aging population, and dietary nutrition is considered a key factor in the prevention of aging. To solve the problem of frailty in the aging population, we developed a novel dietary intervention program using a novel COMpletely Balanced for Frailty Prevention (COMB-FP) meal, based on the Dietary Reference Intake for Japanese; in addition, we conducted a pilot randomized control trial comparing an exercise program only (control group) with exercise plus the COMB-FP meal program (test group). We included 110 male and female healthy volunteers with pre-frailty or frailty; the trial lasted for 12 weeks. Two daily meals were replaced with the COMB-FP meals during the trial in the test group. Walking speed and cognitive function were significantly improved in the test group compared with the control group. We observed a similar pattern in other frailty-related outcomes, such as occupancy of the microbiome, World Health Organization well-being index (WHO-5), and oxidative stress. Our study might indicate the importance of a well-balanced intake of nutrients for frailty prevention.
Healthier Smile: The Role of Diet and Nutrition in the Prevention and Therapy of Caries, Gingivitis, and Periodontitis
Authors: Woelber Johan Peter , Vach Kirstin
Published: October 2023

Although oral hygiene and fluorides have a significant impact on people’s oral health, we must not forget that the causes of oral diseases are often related to malnutrition and other unhealthy behavioral factors, such as smoking, being sedentary, and chronic stress [...]
Dietary Habits of Elite Soccer Players: Variations According to Competitive Level, Playing Position and Sex
Authors: Sebastiá-Rico Jaime , Soriano Jose M. , Sanchis-Chordà Jesús , Alonso-Calvar Miguel , López-Mateu Pedro , Romero-García David , Martínez-Sanz José Miguel
Published: October 2023

Soccer is a sport practiced worldwide by both men and women, where nutrition plays a fundamental role in the performance of soccer players, providing them with the nutrients necessary for energy, muscle recovery and injury prevention. The aim of this study is to describe the dietary habits in elite soccer players and their association with their competitive level, playing position and sex. A descriptive and non-experimental comparative study was conducted during the 2021–2022 competitive season. A total of 105 players belonging to a Spanish elite soccer team completed a food frequency questionnaire (FCFQ). It was observed that male players presented a higher consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods (p < 0.05), fermented foods (p = 0.014), frozen foods (p = 0.049) and red meat (p = 0.012) compared to female players, with the exception of lean meats, which were higher in females (p = 0.012). Furthermore, the U16-15 categories stand out for consuming carbohydrate-rich foods such as pasta (p = 0.000), bread (p = 0.004) and sweets (p = 0.046), as well as frozen foods (p = 0.002). Finally, alcohol consumption is higher in the senior categories (42.9%), where men are more likely to drink mixed drinks (6.2%), and beer and wine by women (10.7%). Practically no differences were found between the playing positions. In conclusion, differences were found in FCFQ according to competitive level and sex.
Optimization of Dimensional Accuracy and Surface Roughness of SLA Patterns and SLA-Based IC Components
Authors: Mukhangaliyeva Aishabibi , Dairabayeva Damira , Perveen Asma , Talamona Didier
Published: October 2023

Rapid investment casting is a casting process in which the sacrificial patterns are fabricated using additive manufacturing techniques, making the creation of advanced designs possible. One of the popular 3D printing methods applied in rapid investment casting is stereolithography because of its high dimensional precision and surface quality. Printing parameters of the used additive manufacturing method can influence the surface quality and accuracy of the rapid investment cast geometries. Hence, this study aims to investigate the effect of stereolithography printing parameters on the dimensional accuracy and surface roughness of printed patterns and investment cast parts. Castable wax material was used to print the sacrificial patterns for casting. A small-scale prosthetic biomedical implant for total hip replacement was selected to be the benchmark model due to its practical significance. The main results indicate that the most significant stereolithography printing parameter affecting surface roughness is build angle, followed by layer thickness. The optimum parameters that minimize the surface roughness are 0.025 mm layer thickness, 0° build angle, 1.0 support density index, and across the front base orientation. As for the dimensional accuracy, the optimum stereolithography parameters are 0.025 mm layer thickness, 30° build angle, 0.6 support density index, and diagonal to the front base orientation. The optimal printing parameters to obtain superior dimensional accuracy of the cast parts are 0.05 mm layer thickness, 45° build angle, 0.8 support density index, and diagonal to the front model base orientation. With respect to the surface roughness, lower values were obtained at 0.025 mm layer thickness, 0° build angle, 1.0 support density index, and parallel to the front base orientation.
Electrospun Fibers Loaded with Pirfenidone: An Innovative Approach for Scar Modulation in Complex Wounds
Authors: Tottoli Erika Maria , Benedetti Laura , Riva Federica , Chiesa Enrica , Pisani Silvia , Bruni Giovanna , Genta Ida , Conti Bice , Ceccarelli Gabriele , Dorati Rossella
Published: October 2023

Hypertrophic scars (HTSs) are pathological structures resulting from chronic inflammation during the wound healing process, particularly in complex injuries like burns. The aim of this work is to propose Biofiber PF (biodegradable fiber loaded with Pirfenidone 1.5 w/w), an electrospun advanced dressing, as a solution for HTSs treatment in complex wounds. Biofiber has a 3-day antifibrotic action to modulate the fibrotic process and enhance physiological healing. Its electrospun structure consists of regular well-interconnected Poly-L-lactide-co-poly-ε-caprolactone (PLA-PCL) fibers (size 2.83 ± 0.46 µm) loaded with Pirfenidone (PF, 1.5% w/w), an antifibrotic agent. The textured matrix promotes the exudate balance through mild hydrophobic wettability behavior (109.3 ± 2.3°), and an appropriate equilibrium between the absorbency % (610.2 ± 171.54%) and the moisture vapor transmission rate (0.027 ± 0.036 g/min). Through its finer mechanical properties, Biofiber PF is conformable to the wound area, promoting movement and tissue oxygenation. These features also enhance the excellent elongation (>500%) and tenacity, both in dry and wet conditions. The ancillary antifibrotic action of PF on hypertrophic scar fibroblast (HSF) for 3 days downregulates the cell proliferation over time and modulates the gene expression of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) at 48–72 h. After 6 days of treatment, a decrement of α-SMA protein levels was detected, proving the potential of biofiber as a valid therapeutic treatment for HTSs in an established wound healing process.
Chinese Lunar Stations and Indian Nakṣatras in the Sui and Tang Periods
Authors: Kotyk Jeffrey
Published: October 2023

The twenty-eight “lunar stations” (ershiba xiu 二十八宿) are unique in Chinese intellectual history in that they served as functional equivalents for Indian nakṣatras, which are also a type of lunar station (or mansion), but in practice these were quite different from the comparable Chinese system. The native Chinese lore of lunar stations as it was understood in the Sui period was outlined in the Wuxing dayi 五行大義 by Xiao Ji 蕭吉 (c. 530–610), which is a manual of Chinese metaphysics free of any Buddhist influences. We might compare the content in this text to writings by contemporary Buddhists, such as Jizang 吉藏 (549–623) and Zhiyi 智顗 (539–598), to illustrate the extent to which native, rather than foreign, astral lore took precedence in the writings of Buddhists in the Sui and Tang periods. This study will demonstrate that Buddhists in China struggled with understanding the nakṣatras and even when faced with the opportunity to adopt an orthodox Indian model, they shifted toward a kind of hybridized system.
Attempts to Communicate the Transcendent in Contemporary Art: An Artist’s Point of View
Authors: Gagić Kičinbači Ivana
Published: October 2023

The article investigates attempts in contemporary art to convey transcendent realities through the lens of the artist. This study examines three key moments of the artistic creative process: intuition, asceticism, and silence. The article assesses silence or stillness as a specific mental state that enables us to evaluate reality with a heightened awareness of our own length, fragility, and the infinite that awaits us on the other side of existence. In artistic practice, silence is a prerequisite for authenticity, believability, and creativity. The article explores the possibility of uncovering and revealing the transcendent via matter through the author’s own artistic inquiry. It discusses art as a master of transforming material, psychological, and physical facts into shapes that hint at what is beyond what the eye or ear can perceive. Art can lead to the sublime and open the mind, eyes, and heart to that which is beyond. The expression of the transcendent through artistic action is observed by analyzing the relationship between the artist and intuitive knowledge in the artistic practices of contemporary and modern artists. Along with the qualitative method of narrative research, research methodologies specific to the artistic field (visual arts) were predominately used, expanding the boundaries of qualitative research by taking a holistic approach closer to the very nature of the artistic process and allowing for a more complete understanding of the process itself.