bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The (Lack of) Salience of T/V Pronouns in Professional Communication: Evidence from an Experimental Study for Belgian Dutch
Authors: Rosseel Laura , Zenner Eline , Faviana Fabian , Van Landeghem Bavo
Published: March 2024

In their quest to find a suitable tone of voice in an informalizing society, many companies are confronted with the choice of using T or V pronouns in their B2C communications. This paper presents an experimental study addressing the question of whether the recipients of these messages actually notice the difference between being addressed with a T form, which carries social meanings of informality and proximity, or a more distant V form, and to what extent the presence of additional informal linguistic features influences the salience of a pronoun switch. We furthermore investigate to what extent the professional socialization of participants impacts on the noticing of pronoun use. In a case study for Belgian Dutch, participants (N = 279) were presented with two versions of an information letter that they were asked to read quickly. The texts were manipulated for the use of T/V pronouns, as well as, depending on the condition, a number of additional informal linguistic features (i.e., informal punctuation, intensifiers, and English lexical items). Participants were not warned in advance about the changes between the two versions of the stimulus text. In a salience test following the presentation of the two text versions, less than 10% of participants noticed a switch in T/V form regardless of the presence of additional informal features. Similarly low rates of noticing were found for the other informal features, except for English loanwords. No differences were found depending on whether participants had a language-related professional background (e.g., language teachers, journalists, editors). We argue that the lack of noticing T/V pronouns may be due to the specifics of the Belgian Dutch system of pronominal address that has an additional highly salient colloquial pronoun of address which may obscure the difference in social meaning between the standard T and V pronouns. The discussion critically evaluates the implications of the study for the use of T/V pronouns in professional communication, musing on the complex relationship between noticing and evaluating.
State of the Art Review for Titanium Fluorine Glasses and Glass Ceramics
Authors: Kettlewell Brenna , Boyd Daniel
Published: March 2024

Titanium (Ti) and fluorine (F) have the potential to provide a variety of desirable physical, chemical, mechanical, and biological properties applicable to a broad range of indications. Consequently, Ti- and F-containing glasses and glass ceramics are currently under investigation for use in nuclear, optical, electrochemical, dental, and industrial fields. Accordingly, significant interest exists with respect to understanding the individual and interaction effects that these elements have on material structure and properties to support the accelerated design, development, and deployment of these materials. This review aims to serve as a foundational reference across multiple disciplines, highlighting the fundamental properties and versatility of Ti- and F-containing glasses and glass ceramics. By consolidating our current knowledge of these materials, this broad overview will identify areas in which we can further our understanding to support the a priori prediction and effective design of these systems. Finally, this paper will introduce the potential to improve material design by integrating experimentation, modelling, and computational approaches in a manner commensurate with the principles of the Materials Genome Initiative.
Luminescence Properties of an Orthorhombic KLaF4 Phosphor Doped with Pr3+ Ions under Vacuum Ultraviolet and Visible Excitation
Authors: Zdeb Patrycja , Rebrova Nadiia , Lisiecki Radosław , Dereń Przemysław Jacek
Published: March 2024

Fluorides have a wide bandgap and therefore, when doped with the appropriate ions, exhibit emissions in the ultraviolet C (UVC) region. Some of them can emit two photons in the visible region for one excitation photon, having a quantum efficiency greater than 100%. In a novel exploration, praseodymium (Pr3+) ions were introduced into KLaF4 crystals for the first time. The samples were obtained according to a high-temperature solid-state reaction. They exhibited an orthorhombic crystal structure, which has not been observed for this lattice yet. The optical properties of the material were investigated in the ultraviolet (UV) and visible ranges. The spectroscopic results were used to analyze the Pr3+ electronic-level structure, including the 4f5d configuration. It has been found that KLaF4:Pr3+ crystals exhibit intense luminescence in the UVC range, corresponding to multiple 4f → 4f transitions. Additionally, under vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) excitation, distinct transitions, specifically 1S0 → 1I6 and 3P0 → 3H4, were observed, which signifies the occurrence of photon cascade emission (PCE). The thermal behavior of the luminescence and the thermometric performance of the material were also analyzed. This study not only sheds light on the optical behavior of Pr3+ ions within a KLaF4 lattice but also highlights its potential for efficient photon management and quantum-based technologies.
Test Research on Residual Mechanical Properties of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Segments after High Temperature
Authors: Zong Gang , Wang Yao , Wang Yong , Ren Zhaoqing
Published: March 2024

In order to research the residual mechanical properties of concrete shield tunnel segments after exposure to high temperatures, two types of concrete segments were designed: a self-compacting concrete segment and a mixed fiber (steel fiber and polypropylene fiber) self-compacting concrete segment. The mechanical properties of seven blocks of concrete segments (five segments after high-temperature exposure and two segments at room temperature) were tested to analyze the influence of different loading sizes and fibers on the development of cracks after high temperature, failure mode, crack width, deformation, and so on in the concrete segments. The results showed that the damage model of the segment after exposure to high temperature and the segment at room temperature were crushed in the pressurized zone, but the high temperature had little effect on the concrete in the pressurized area. The size of the preload at high temperatures had little effect on the remaining load capacity, and the effect on the number of cracks was mainly concentrated on the internal arc surface of the segment. After high-temperature exposure, the number of cracks on the sides and inner arc surface of the segment increased, and the development of cracks was concentrated as several major cracks at high temperatures. When fibers were incorporated, the cracks in the segment became obvious, where the cracks at the loading point became denser and the interval distance became smaller.
Using the Spark Plasma Sintering System for Fabrication of Advanced Semiconductor Materials
Authors: Kaszyca Kamil , Chmielewski Marcin , Bucholc Bartosz , Błyskun Piotr , Nisar Fatima , Rojek Jerzy , Zybała Rafał
Published: March 2024

The interest in the Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) technique has continuously increased over the last few years. This article shows the possibility of the development of an SPS device used for material processing and synthesis in both scientific and industrial applications and aims to present manufacturing methods and the versatility of an SPS device, presenting examples of processing Arc-Melted- (half-Heusler, cobalt triantimonide) and Self-propagating High-temperature Synthesis (SHS)-synthesized semiconductor (bismuth telluride) materials. The SPS system functionality development is presented, the purpose of which was to broaden the knowledge of the nature of SPS processes. This approach enabled the precise design of material sintering processes and also contributed to increasing the repeatability and accuracy of sintering conditions.
Digital Ergonomics—The Reliability of the Human Factor and Its Impact on the Maintenance of Aircraft Brakes and Wheels
Authors: Hovanec Michal , Korba Peter , Al-Rabeei Samer , Vencel Martin , Racek Branislav
Published: March 2024

This paper presents the development and use of digital tools in the maintenance processes and ergonomics of work systems in the aerospace industry. The Industry 4.0 strategy aims to ensure the reliability of the human factor throughout the entire lifecycle of the maintenance process in the aerospace industry. Based on the requirement placed on the digital model of the working environment obtained from the 3D scanner data, an advanced software solution from TECNOMATIX, namely the TX JACK software 16.1.0 module, was used. The investigated digital ergonomic model, with two variants of workers with anthropometrically different weights, is the subject of analysis and simulation of the maintenance work process in an aerospace organization. Furthermore, the research also shows how the workers of maintenance and repair organizations are willing to develop their own knowledge and skills. The aviation industry should invest in the development of reliable software and hardware, improve safety at the level of digital ergonomics and the quality of jobs involving digitalization, and offer appropriate training for safety and quality personnel. The aim of this paper is to ensure the reliability of the human factor in the maintenance process and, consequently, to ensure technical safety by means of innovative tools in practice. The findings suggest that the investigated TESTER-STEND model with high-end adjustable pistons will improve ergonomics, worker performance, and work safety as a whole.
Stability and Synchronization of Delayed Quaternion-Valued Neural Networks under Multi-Disturbances
Authors: Yang Jibin , Xu Xiaohui , Xu Quan , Yang Haolin , Yu Mengge
Published: March 2024

This paper discusses a type of mixed-delay quaternion-valued neural networks (QVNNs) under impulsive and stochastic disturbances. The considered QVNNs model are treated as a whole, rather than as complex-valued neural networks (NNs) or four real-valued NNs. Using the vector Lyapunov function method, some criteria are provided for securing the mean-square exponential stability of the mixed-delay QVNNs under impulsive and stochastic disturbances. Furthermore, a type of chaotic QVNNs under stochastic and impulsive disturbances is considered using a previously established stability analysis method. After the completion of designing the linear feedback control law, some sufficient conditions are obtained using the vector Lyapunov function method for determining the mean-square exponential synchronization of drive–response systems. Finally, two examples are provided to demonstrate the correctness and feasibility of the main findings and one example is provided to validate the use of QVNNs for image associative memory.
Chi-Square Approximation for the Distribution of Individual Eigenvalues of a Singular Wishart Matrix
Authors: Shimizu Koki , Hashiguchi Hiroki
Published: March 2024

This paper discusses the approximate distributions of eigenvalues of a singular Wishart matrix. We give the approximate joint density of eigenvalues by Laplace approximation for the hypergeometric functions of matrix arguments. Furthermore, we show that the distribution of each eigenvalue can be approximated by the chi-square distribution with varying degrees of freedom when the population eigenvalues are infinitely dispersed. The derived result is applied to testing the equality of eigenvalues in two populations.
Utilization of Spent Coffee Grounds for Bioelectricity Generation in Sediment Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Mohd Noor Nurfarhana Nabila , Jeong Ilwon , Yoon Seokjin , Kim Kyunghoi
Published: March 2024

This study examined the utilization of spent coffee grounds with different aqueous extraction methods for the bioelectricity generation from coastal benthic sediment through a sediment microbial fuel cell (SMFC) system. Different methods for the aqueous extraction of SCGs were evaluated, including rinsing and drying of the SCG (SMFC-CRD), immersion, rinsing and drying (SMFC-CRID), drying alone (SMFC-CD), and untreated SCG (SMFC-C). The caffeine concentration in the SCG was significantly reduced using pretreatments, with SMFC-CRID achieving the lowest concentration of 0.021 ± 0.001 mg/g. SMFC-CRD contributed to the generation of the highest current density of 213.7 mA/m2 during closed-circuit operation and exhibited the highest power density of 96.9 mW/m2 in the polarization test, due to the suitable caffeine content of 0.275 ± 0.001 mg/g in the SCG. This study could provide a cost-effective method for reusing SCGs (i.e., 128 g) while generating bioelectricity as an alternative energy source. These results suggest that pretreatment with SCGs is essential for achieving optimal power density and reducing the caffeine concentration in the SMFC system.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Trends of Trichomonas vaginalis Infection in a Tertiary Hospital of Madrid, Spain
Authors: Bolumburu Celia , Zamora Vega , Muñoz-Algarra María , de la Cruz Conty Maria Luisa , Escario José Antonio , Ibáñez-Escribano Alexandra
Published: March 2024

More than one million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) occur every day, and Trichomonas vaginalis is responsible for more than 156 million cases each year worldwide. Nevertheless, epidemiological studies of this parasite in Europe are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic may have had in the diagnosis and epidemiology of trichomoniasis. All available data from January 2018 to December 2021 for T. vaginalis isolation on gynecologic patients attending a Spanish Tertiary Hospital were analyzed. Pre-pandemic results (2018–2019) were compared to pandemic results (2020–2021). The pre-pandemic T. vaginalis prevalence in women was 1.15% (95% Confidence Interval, CI: 0.94–1.41), and significantly decreased in 2020–2021 (0.77%, 95% CI: 0.57–1.03; p = 0.025). Demographic nor clinical characteristics of women diagnosed with trichomoniasis did not statistically differ between the periods, although an increase in chlamydia co-infected patients was observed in the latest (from 8% in 2018–2019 to 19% in 2020–2021). This study has detected a decrease in the diagnosis of trichomoniasis; however, this is probably due to the increase in the healthcare pressure triggered by the pandemic. More than 75% of the cases diagnosed in 2021 occurred in the second half, which suggests that special attention should be given to the evolution in the coming years once normality has been restored in hospitals. Moreover, these results warn of the lack of routine diagnosis of trichomoniasis during pregnancy and the absence of specific protocols for possible co-infections, which could become a strategy to reduce the growing trend of STIs, including T. vaginalis detection, as an interesting marker of sexual risk behaviors.
Evaluation of Pyrophosphate-Driven Proton Pumps in Saccharomyces cerevisiae under Stress Conditions
Authors: Sreenivas Krishnan , Eisentraut Leon , Brink Daniel P. , Persson Viktor C. , Carlquist Magnus , Gorwa-Grauslund Marie F. , van Niel Ed W. J.
Published: March 2024

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, pH homeostasis is reliant on ATP due to the use of proton-translocating ATPase (H+-ATPase) which constitutes a major drain within cellular ATP supply. Here, an exogenous proton-translocating pyrophosphatase (H+-PPase) from Arabidopsis thaliana, which uses inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi) rather than ATP, was evaluated for its effect on reducing the ATP burden. The H+-Ppase was localized to the vacuolar membrane or to the cell membrane, and their impact was studied under acetate stress at a low pH. Biosensors (pHluorin and mQueen-2m) were used to observe changes in intracellular pH (pHi) and ATP levels during growth on either glucose or xylose. A significant improvement of 35% in the growth rate at a pH of 3.7 and 6 g·L−1 acetic acid stress was observed in the vacuolar membrane H+-PPase strain compared to the parent strain. ATP levels were elevated in the same strain during anaerobic glucose and xylose fermentations. During anaerobic xylose fermentations, co-expression of pHluorin and a vacuolar membrane H+-PPase improved the growth characteristics by means of an improved growth rate (11.4%) and elongated logarithmic growth duration. Our study identified a potential method for improving productivity in the use of S. cerevisiae as a cell factory under the harsh conditions present in industry.
Tailoring the Formation of Functionalized Furans from Glucose in Water with Nature-Sourced Catalysts and In Situ NMR
Authors: Warthegau Stefan S. , Meier Sebastian
Published: March 2024

Chain elongation of unprotected carbohydrates in water under mild conditions remains a challenge both in chemical and biochemical synthesis. The Knoevenagel addition or condensation enables transformations to bioactive scaffolds for pharmaceutical and agrochemical compounds. Unfortunately, the catalysts in use for these transformations often reduce the green metrics of the transformations. Here, we use in situ NMR visualizations to explore the prospective use of natural catalysts for the synthesis of triple- and quadruple-functionalized furan- or dihydrofuran-derivatives from glucose and malononitrile. The dihydrofuran derivatives are formed as kinetic, major intermediates in the pathway to furan derivatives when using naturally abundant MgO or bio-sourced chitosan and N-Methyl-d-glucamine (meglumine) as the catalysts in water. Both catalyst loading, solvent composition and pH can be adapted to populate dihydrofurans with four substituents by slowing down their further reactions. Higher temperatures and higher pH values favor the formation of triple-functionalized furans over quadruple-substituted dihydrofurans, which may be bicyclic or monocyclic. Compared to more traditional catalysts, nature-sourced options offer more sustainable options that emulate natural processes. Visualization with in situ NMR contributes to streamlining the development of cheap and environmentally benign procedures for carbohydrate chain elongation.
Facile Solid-State Chemical Synthesis of CoMoO4 Nanorods for High-Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Yu Rui , Lu Xiaoyan , Lu Zhenjiang , Cao Yali
Published: March 2024

The development of electrode materials with excellent performance serves as the key for researchers to enhance the energy density of supercapacitors. Cobalt molybdate (CoMoO4) nanomaterials have been regarded as one of the most prospective electrode materials for supercapacitors due to their high theoretical capacitance and excellent electrical conductivity. In this paper, three kinds of CoMoO4 nanorods were prepared directly via simple and environmentally friendly solid-phase chemical reactions with solid inorganic salts as raw materials. According to X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) test results, different reagents had certain effects on the size and morphology of CoMoO4, and these affected its electrochemical performance. In particular, the samples prepared with Co(NO3)2·6H2O as raw material took on a more uniform micromorphology, with a better crystallinity. Simultaneously, electrochemical test results showed that the samples synthesized with Co(NO3)2·6H2O presented relatively good electrical conductivity and a large specific capacitance (177 F g−1). This may be due to the nitrates reacting more slowly during the reaction and the crystals having difficulty aggregating during growth. Therefore, the structure of the prepared CoMoO4 nanomaterial was more uniform, and it was resistant to collapse during the charging and discharging process; thus, the capacitor presents the best performance.
Magnetite/MXene (Fe3O4/Ti3C2) Nanocomposite as a Novel Adsorbent for Environmental Remediation of Malachite Green Dye
Authors: Alkhudaydi Amal M. , Danish Ekram Y. , Abdel Salam Mohamed
Published: March 2024

In this work, a novel adsorbent called magnetite/MXene (Fe3O4/Ti3C2) nanocomposite was prepared, characterized, and applied for the removal of organic dye, malachite green dye (MG), from both real water and model solutions. Numerous techniques were used to characterize the prepared Fe3O4/Ti3C2 nanocomposite: XRD, SEM, TEM, FTIR, and surface area analysis. The outcomes showed that the Al layer had been selectively etched, that the MAX phase (Ti3AlC2) had been transformed into layered Ti3C2 MXene, that the cubic Fe3O4 phase had been prepared, and that the prepared Fe3O4 NPs had been evenly distributed on the MXene surface. Also, SEM pictures showed the successful etching of the MAX phase and the formation of the ultrathin multi-layered MXene, which the Fe3O4 NPs covered upon forming the Fe3O4/Ti3C2 nanocomposite at the surface and inside the ultrathin multi-layered MXene. The effect of different operational parameters affecting the removal process was explored and optimized. The MG dye was removed mostly within 60 min, with a 4.68 mg/g removal capacity using 5 mg of the Fe3O4/Ti3C2 nanocomposite. The removal was examined from both kinetic and thermodynamic perspectives, and the findings demonstrated the spontaneity of the removal process as well as the applicability of fractal-like pseudo-first-order and fractal-like pseudo-second-order kinetics when compared to other kinetics models. The Fe3O4/Ti3C2 nanocomposite was used to remove MG dye from real spiked environmental water samples, and the results revealed the successful remediation of the real samples from the organic dye by the Fe3O4/Ti3C2 nanocomposite. Accordingly, Fe3O4/Ti3C2 nanocomposite could be considered a potential adsorbent for the environmental remediation of polluted water.
Targeting Cancer Hallmarks with Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG): Mechanistic Basis and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Talib Wamidh H. , Awajan Dima , Alqudah Abdelrahim , Alsawwaf Razan , Althunibat Raha , Abu AlRoos Mahmoud , Al Safadi Ala’a , Abu Asab Sharif , Hadi Rawan W. , Al Kury Lina T.
Published: March 2024

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a catechin, which is a type of flavonoid found in high concentrations in green tea. EGCG has been studied extensively for its potential health benefits, particularly in cancer. EGCG has been found to exhibit anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, and pro-apoptotic effects in numerous cancer cell lines and animal models. EGCG has demonstrated the ability to interrupt various signaling pathways associated with cellular proliferation and division in different cancer types. EGCG anticancer activity is mediated by interfering with various cancer hallmarks. This article summarize and highlight the effects of EGCG on cancer hallmarks and focused on the impacts of EGCG on these cancer-related hallmarks. The studies discussed in this review enrich the understanding of EGCG’s potential as a therapeutic tool against cancer, offering a substantial foundation for scientists and medical experts to advance scientific and clinical investigations regarding EGCG’s possibility as a potential anticancer treatment.
Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Sesquiterpenoids from Atractylodes DC. Genus Rhizomes
Authors: Qu Zhengyi , Liu Hongqun , Zhang Zhenghai , Zheng Peihe , Zhao Shuting , Hou Wei
Published: March 2024

The rhizomes of the genus Atractylodes DC. consist of various bioactive components, including sesquiterpenes, which have attracted a great deal of research interest in recent years. In the present study, we reviewed the previously published literatures prior to November 2023 on the chemical structures, biosynthetic pathways, and pharmacological activities of the sesquiterpenoids from this genus via online databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. Phytochemical studies have led to the identification of more than 160 sesquiterpenes, notably eudesmane-type sesquiterpenes. Many pharmacological activities have been demonstrated, particularly anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial and antiviral activities. This review presents updated, comprehensive and categorized information on the phytochemistry and pharmacology of sesquiterpenes in Atractylodes DC., with the aim of offering guidance for the future exploitation and utilization of active ingredients in this genus.
Phytochemical Profiling by UHPLC–Q-TOF/MS and Chemopreventive Effect of Aqueous Extract of Moringa oleifera Leaves and Benzyl Isothiocyanate on Murine Mammary Carcinogenesis
Authors: Rojas-Armas Juan Pedro , Palomino-Pacheco Miriam , Arroyo-Acevedo Jorge Luis , Ortiz-Sánchez José Manuel , Justil-Guerrero Hugo Jesús , Martínez-Heredia Jaime Teodocio , Castro-Luna Américo , Rodríguez Flores Crescencio , Guzmán Duxtan Aldo Javier
Published: March 2024

Moringa oleifera Lam, commonly known as moringa, is a plant widely used both as a human food and for medicinal purposes around the world. This research aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves (MoAE) and benzyl isothiocyanate (BIT) in rats with induced breast cancer. Cancer was induced with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) at a dose of 60 mg/kg by orogastric gavage once only. Forty-eight rats were randomly assigned to eight groups, each consisting of six individuals. The control group (healthy) was called Group I. Group II received DMBA plus saline. In addition to DMBA, Groups III, IV, and V received MoAE at 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg/day, respectively, while Groups VI, VII, and VIII received BIT at 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg/day, respectively. Treatment was carried out for 13 weeks. Secondary metabolite analysis results identified predominantly quercetin, caffeoylquinic acid, neochlorogenic acid, vitexin, and kaempferol, as well as tropone, betaine, loliolide, and vitexin. The administration of MoAE at a dose of 500 mg/kg and BIT at 20 mg/kg exhibited a notable decrease in both the total tumor count and the cumulative tumor weight, along with a delay in their onset. Furthermore, they improved the histological grade. A significant decrease in serum levels of VEGF and IL-1β levels was observed (p < 0.001) with a better effect demonstrated with MoAE at 500 mg/kg and BIT at 20 mg/kg. In conclusion, this study suggests that both the aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves and the benzyl isothiocyanate possess antitumor properties against mammary carcinogenesis, and this effect could be due, at least in part, to the flavonoids and isothiocyanates present in the extract.
In Situ Hybridization Strategy Constructs Heterogeneous Interfaces to Form Electronically Modulated MoS2/FeS2 as the Anode for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Storage
Authors: Li Dazhi , Sun Changlong , Miao Zeqing , Gao Kesheng , Li Zeyang , Sun Wei , Guan Shengjing , Qu Xiaofei , Li Zhenjiang
Published: March 2024

The interfacial effect is important for anodes of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) to achieve superior lithium-ion storage performance. In this paper, a MoS2/FeS2 heterojunction is synthesized by a simple hydrothermal reaction to construct the interface effect, and the heterostructure introduces an inherent electric field that accelerates the de-embedding process of lithium ions, improves the electron transfer capability, and effectively mitigates volume expansion. XPS analysis confirms evident chemical interaction between MoS2 and FeS2 via an interfacial covalent bond (Mo–S–Fe). This MoS2/FeS2 anode shows a distinct interfacial effect for efficient interatomic electron migration. The electrochemical performance demonstrated that the discharge capacity can reach up to 1217.8 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 after 200 cycles, with a capacity retention rate of 72.9%. After 2000 cycles, the capacity retention is about 61.6% at 1.0 A g−1, and the discharge capacity can still reach 638.9 mA h g−1. Electrochemical kinetic analysis indicated an enhanced pseudocapacitance contribution and that the MoS2/FeS2 had sufficient adsorption of lithium ions. This paper therefore argues that this interfacial engineering is an effective solution for designing sulfide-based anodes with good electrochemical properties.
Hyperglycaemia Aggravates Oxidised Low-Density Lipoprotein-Induced Schwann Cell Death via Hyperactivation of Toll-like Receptor 4
Authors: Nihei Wataru , Kato Ayako , Himeno Tatsuhito , Kondo Masaki , Nakamura Jiro , Kamiya Hideki , Sango Kazunori , Kato Koichi
Published: March 2024

Increased low-density lipoprotein levels are risk factors for diabetic neuropathy. Diabetes mellitus is associated with elevated metabolic stress, leading to oxidised low-density lipoprotein formation. Therefore, it is important to investigate the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy in diabetes complicated by dyslipidaemia with increased levels of oxidised low-density lipoprotein. Here, we examined the effects of hyperglycaemia and oxidised low-density lipoprotein treatment on Schwann cell death and its underlying mechanisms. Immortalised mouse Schwann cells were treated with oxidised low-density lipoprotein under normo- or hyperglycaemic conditions. We observed that oxidised low-density lipoprotein-induced cell death increased under hyperglycaemic conditions compared with normoglycaemic conditions. Moreover, hyperglycaemia and oxidised low-density lipoprotein treatment synergistically upregulated the gene and protein expression of toll-like receptor 4. Pre-treatment with TAK-242, a selective toll-like receptor 4 signalling inhibitor, attenuated hyperglycaemia- and oxidised low-density lipoprotein-induced cell death and apoptotic caspase-3 pathway. Our findings suggest that the hyperactivation of toll-like receptor 4 signalling by hyperglycaemia and elevated oxidised low-density lipoprotein levels synergistically exacerbated diabetic neuropathy; thus, it can be a potential therapeutic target for diabetic neuropathy.
Daily Caffeine Consumption May Increase the Risk of Acute Kidney Injury Related to Platinum-Salt Chemotherapy in Thoracic Cancer Patients: A Translational Study
Authors: Hamroun Aghiles , Decaestecker Antoine , Larrue Romain , Fellah Sandy , Blum David , Van der Hauwaert Cynthia , Scherpereel Arnaud , Cortot Alexis , Lenain Rémi , Maanaoui Mehdi , Pottier Nicolas , Cauffiez Christelle , Glowacki François
Published: March 2024

Although their efficacy has been well-established in Oncology, the use of platinum salts remains limited due to the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI). Caffeine has been suggested as a potential pathophysiological actor of platinum-salt-induced AKI, through its hemodynamic effects. This work aims to study the association between caffeine consumption and the risk of platinum-salt-induced AKI, based on both clinical and experimental data. The clinical study involved a single-center prospective cohort study including all consecutive thoracic cancer patients receiving a first-line platinum-salt (cisplatin or carboplatin) chemotherapy between January 2017 and December 2018. The association between daily caffeine consumption (assessed by a validated auto-questionnaire) and the risk of platinum-salt induced AKI or death was estimated by cause-specific Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for several known confounders. Cellular viability, relative renal NGAL expression and/or BUN levels were assessed in models of renal tubular cells and mice co-exposed to cisplatin and increasing doses of caffeine. Overall, 108 patients were included (mean age 61.7 years, 65% men, 80% tobacco users), among whom 34 (31.5%) experienced a platinum-salt-induced AKI (67% Grade 1) over a 6-month median follow-up. The group of high-caffeine consumption (≥386 mg/day) had a two-fold higher hazard of AKI (adjusted HR [95% CI], 2.19 [1.05; 4.57]), without any significant association with mortality. These results are consistent with experimental data confirming enhanced cisplatin-related nephrotoxicity in the presence of increasing doses of caffeine, in both in vitro and in vivo models. Overall, this study suggests a potentially deleterious effect of high doses of daily caffeine consumption on the risk of platinum-salt-related AKI, in both clinical and experimental settings.
Gastrointestinal Microbiota & Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety in Anorexia Nervosa—A Re-Analysis of the MICROBIAN Longitudinal Study
Authors: Ketel Jasmin , Bosch-Bruguera Miquel , Auchter Greta , Cuntz Ulrich , Zipfel Stephan , Enck Paul , Mack Isabelle
Published: March 2024

The microbiota–gut–brain axis may play a role in the pathophysiology of anorexia nervosa (AN). Here, the relationship between the gastrointestinal microbiota and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and eating disorder pathology in patients with AN before (n = 55) and after weight restoration (n = 44) was investigated by reanalyzing the data of the MICROBIAN study. The gastrointestinal microbiota was analyzed using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Symptoms of anxiety disorder, depression, and the severity of the eating disorder were measured by validated questionnaires. All analyses were adjusted for the body mass index (BMI). Several significant findings between psychological parameters and the gastrointestinal microbiota were not evident after controlling for the BMI. No differences in alpha and beta diversity between groups of higher and lower symptom severity levels for depression and anxiety were found. Positive associations between species of Blautia and Ruminococcus and depression symptoms, and between the phylum Firmicutes and anxiety symptoms were observed after rehabilitation, respectively. A positive correlation was found between propionate and acetate levels and the reduction of depression severity during inpatient treatment. Accounting for the weight status when analyzing the relationship between psychological parameters and the gastrointestinal microbiota in patients with underweight is important since the BMI may be the driver for many observed changes.
Inter-Individual Responses to a Blueberry Intervention across Multiple Endpoints
Authors: Wang Yueyue , Haskell-Ramsay Crystal , Gallegos Jose Lara , Lodge John K.
Published: March 2024

Inter-individual variation exists in response to diet and in the endpoints related to vascular diseases and cognitive impairment. Therefore, the evaluation and characterisation of responses to a dietary intervention targeting these endpoints is important. A dietary intervention with 37 participants has been performed comparing two forms of blueberry, either whole fresh blueberry (160 g), freeze-dried blueberry powder (20 g) or a placebo control (microcrystalline cellulose), in a 1-week single-blinded cross-over randomised controlled trial (RCT) in a healthy population. The response to the intervention was calculated for each endpoint using the percentage change (±%) compared to the baseline. Extensive inter-individual variation was found in vascular health parameters (−141 to +525%) and cognitive domains (−114 to +96%) post-intervention, but there was no consistent response following the two interventions between and within participants for each endpoint measured. No significant putative discriminating urinary metabolites between interventions were found using supervised multivariate analysis. Although several discriminatory metabolites were found between the responder and non-responder groups, it was not possible to identify predictors of the response using receiver operating curve analysis. To conclude, this is the first blueberry intervention applying quartile divisions to characterise individual responses in vascular and cognitive endpoints following a specific dietary intervention; however, we did not find any consistency in the individual responses to the interventions, and we could not identify a predictive urinary metabolite as a potential biomarker for differentiation between responders and non-responders. However, the overall approach of defining a metabolic signature of response could be used in the future for tailored personalised nutritional advice.
The Effect of Prior Creatine Intake for 28 Days on Accelerated Recovery from Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Yamaguchi Shota , Inami Takayuki , Ishida Hiroyuki , Morito Akihisa , Yamada Satoshi , Nagata Naoya , Murayama Mitsuyoshi
Published: March 2024

Despite the known beneficial effects of creatine in treating exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), its effectiveness remains unclear. This study investigates the recovery effect of creatine monohydrate (CrM) on EIMD. Twenty healthy men (21–36 years) were subjected to stratified, randomized, double-blind assignments. The creatine (CRE) and placebo (PLA) groups ingested creatine and crystalline cellulose, respectively, for 28 days. They subsequently performed dumbbell exercises while emphasizing eccentric contraction of the elbow flexors. The EIMD was evaluated before and after exercise. The range of motion was significantly higher in the CRE group than in the PLA group 24 h (h) post exercise. A similar difference was detected in maximum voluntary contraction at 0, 48, 96, and 168 h post exercise (p = 0.017–0.047). The upper arm circumference was significantly lower in the CRE group than in the PLA group at 48, 72, 96, and 168 h post exercise (p = 0.002–0.030). Similar variation was observed in the shear modulus of the biceps brachii muscle at 96 and 168 h post exercise (p = 0.003–0.021) and in muscle fatigue at 0 and 168 h post exercise (p = 0.012–0.032). These findings demonstrate CrM-mediated accelerated recovery from EIMD, suggesting that CrM is an effective supplement for EIMD recovery.
Thermally Controlled Broadband Ge2Sb2Te5-Based Metamaterial Absorber for Imaging Applications
Authors: Qiu Zifeng , Jin Gui , Tang Bin
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we theoretically and numerically demonstrate a thermally controlled broadband absorber based on the phase change material Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST). When GST operates in the amorphous state, the proposed metamaterial acts as a broadband nearly perfect absorber. The absorption can reach more than 90% in the wavelength range from 0.9 to 1.41 μm. As an application of the GST-based metamaterial absorber, the near-field imaging effect is achieved by using the intensity difference of optical absorption. Moreover, the thermally controlled switchable imaging can be performed by changing the phase transition characteristics of GST, and the imaging quality and contrast can be adjusted by changing the geometrical parameters. This designed metamaterial may have potential applications in near-infrared temperature control imaging, optical encryption, and information hiding.
Study of Mid-Pressure Ar Radiofrequency Plasma Used in Plasma-Enhanced Atomic Layer Deposition of α-Al2O3
Authors: Piller Carl-Thomas , Raud Jüri , Aarik Lauri , Jõgi Indrek , Talviste Rasmus , Aarik Jaan
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the characteristics of radiofrequency, middle-pressure argon plasma used in the atomic layer deposition (ALD) of Al2O3 films. Based on the electrical characteristics—the current, voltage, and phase shift between them—and the stability of the plasma plume, the optimum plasma power, allowing reliable switching on of the plasma for any step of an ALD cycle, was determined. Spectral measurements were performed to determine the gas temperature and reactive species that could be important in the ALD process. The density of metastable argon atoms was estimated using tunable laser absorption spectroscopy. It was concluded that plasma heating of substrates did not affect film growth. The crystallization-enhancing effect of plasma observed in these experiments was due to the action of OH radicals produced in the plasma.
Solar-Assisted Carbon Capture Process Integrated with a Natural Gas Combined Cycle (NGCC) Power Plant—A Simulation-Based Study
Authors: Al-Elanjawy Yasser Abbas Hammady , Yilmaz Mustafa
Published: March 2024

In the realm of Natural Gas Combined Cycle (NGCC) power plants, it is crucial to prioritize the mitigation of CO2 emissions to ensure environmental sustainability. The integration of post-combustion carbon capture technologies plays a pivotal role in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions enhancing the NGCC’s environmental profile by minimizing its carbon footprint. This research paper presents a comprehensive investigation into the integration of solar thermal energy into the Besmaya Natural Gas Combined Cycle (NGCC) power plant, located in Baghdad, Iraq. Leveraging advanced process simulation and modeling techniques employing Aspen Plus software, the study aims to evaluate the performance and feasibility of augmenting the existing NGCC facility with solar assistance for post-carbon capture. The primary objective of this research is to conduct a thorough simulation of the Besmaya NGCC power plant under its current operational conditions, thereby establishing a baseline for subsequent analyses. Subsequently, a solar-assisted post-combustion capture (PCC) plant is simulated and seamlessly integrated into the existing power infrastructure. To accurately estimate solar thermal power potential at the Baghdad coordinates, the System Advisor Model (SAM) is employed. The integration of solar thermal energy into the NGCC power plant is meticulously examined, and the resulting hybrid system’s technical viability and performance metrics are rigorously evaluated. The paper contributes to the field by providing valuable insights into the technical feasibility and potential benefits of incorporating solar thermal energy into conventional natural gas power generation infrastructure, particularly in the context of the Besmaya NGCC plant in Baghdad. The power generation capacity of the plant was set at 750 MW. With this capacity, the annual CO2 generation was estimated at 2,119,318 tonnes/year which was reduced to 18,064 tonnes/year (a 99% reduction). The findings aim to inform future decisions in the pursuit of sustainable and efficient energy solutions, addressing both environmental concerns and energy security in the region.
A New Method for Numerical Simulation of Coalbed Methane Pilot Horizontal Wells—Taking the Bowen Basin C Pilot Area in Australia as an Example
Authors: Wang Xidong , Duan Lijiang , Zhang Songhang , Tang Shuheng , Lv Jianwei , Li Xudong
Published: March 2024

Coalbed methane (CBM) pilot wells typically exhibit a short production period, necessitating evaluation of their estimated ultimate recovery (EUR) through numerical simulation. Utilizing limited geological data from the pilot areas to finish history matching and subsequent production forecasting presents substantial challenges. This paper introduces a comprehensive numerical simulation workflow for CBM pilot wells, encompassing the following steps. Initially, geological parameters are categorized into two groups based on their statistical distribution trends: trend parameters (i.e., gas content, permeability, Langmuir volume, and Langmuir pressure) and non-trend parameters (i.e., fracture porosity, gas–water relative permeability, and rock compressibility). The probability method is employed to ascertain the probable high and low limits for trend parameter distributions, while empirical or analogous methods are applied to define the boundaries for non-trend parameters. Subsequently, the parameter sensitivity analysis is conducted to understand the influence of varying parameters on cumulative gas and water production. Conclusively, experimental design algorithms generate over 100 simulation cases using the identified sensitive parameters, from which the top ten optimal cases are chosen for EUR prediction. This workflow features two technological innovations: (1) considering the most comprehensive set of reservoir parameters for uncertainty and sensitivity analyses, and (2) considering the matching accuracy of both cumulative production and dynamic production trends when selecting optimal matching cases. This approach was successfully implemented in the C pilot area of the Bowen Basin, Australia. In addition, it offers valuable insights for numerical simulation of unconventional natural gases, such as shale gas.
Exploring Systemic Risk Dynamics in the Chinese Stock Market: A Network Analysis with Risk Transmission Index
Authors: Zeng Xiaowei , Hu Yifan , Pan Chengjun , Hou Yanxi
Published: March 2024

Systemic risk refers to the potential for a disruption in one part of a financial system to trigger a cascade of adverse effects, impacting the functioning of the system. Despite the progress on novel systemic risk measures, research on dynamics of systemic risk network structure and its community effect is still in its initial state. In this study, we utilize price data from 107 representative Chinese stocks spanning the period from 2017 to 2022. A systemic risk network is derived from the Risk Transmission Index based on TENET and the QR–Lasso model. By utilizing DBSCAN, HITS and community detection algorithms on the network, we aim to propose a more suitable definition of systemically important companies, explore the interrelationships between companies, and discuss its plausible reasons for dynamics structural changes. The empirical findings demonstrate a substantial involvement of insurance companies in both contributing to and receiving systemic risk within the analyzed context. We identify prominent risk output and input centers, and emphasize the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the dynamics of systemic risk.
Adding Shocks to a Prospective Mortality Model
Authors: Planchet Frédéric , Gautier de La Plaine Guillaume
Published: March 2024

This work proposes a simple model to take into account the annual volatility of the mortality level observed on the scale of a country like France in the construction of prospective mortality tables. By assigning a frailty factor to a basic hazard function, we generalise the Lee–Carter model. The impact on prospective life expectancies and capital requirements in the context of a life annuity scheme is analysed in detail.
Reweighted Extreme Learning Machine-Based Clutter Suppression and Range Compensation Algorithm for Non-Side-Looking Airborne Radar
Authors: Liu Jing , Liao Guisheng , Zeng Cao , Tao Haihong , Xu Jingwei , Zhu Shengqi , Juwono Filbert H.
Published: March 2024

Non-side-looking airborne radar provides important applications on account of its all-round multi-angle airspace coverage. However, it suffers clutter range dependence that makes the samples fail to satisfy the condition of being independent and identically distributed (IID), and it severely degrades traditional approaches to clutter suppression and target detection. In this paper, a novel reweighted extreme learning machine (ELM)-based clutter suppression and range compensation algorithm is proposed for non-side-looking airborne radar. The proposed method involves first designing the pre-processing stage, the special reweighted complex-valued activation function containing an unknown range compensation matrix, and two new objective outputs for constructing an initial reweighted ELM-based network with its training. Then, two other objective outputs, a new loss function, and a reverse feedback framework driven by the specifically designed objectives are proposed for the unknown range compensation matrix. Finally, aiming to estimate and reconstruct the unknown compensation matrix, special processes of the complex-valued structures and the theoretical derivations are designed and analyzed in detail. Consequently, with the updated and compensated samples, further processing including space–time adaptive processing (STAP) can be performed for clutter suppression and target detection. Compared with the classic relevant methods, the proposed algorithm achieves significantly superior performance with reasonable computation time. It provides an obviously higher detection probability and better improvement factor (IF). The simulation results verify that the proposed algorithm is effective and has many advantages.