bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Maximal Dorsiflexion Range of Motion: Multi-Perspective Comparison Using Mechanical, Neural, Morphological, and Muscle Quality Factors
Authors: Mizuno Takamasa , Yoshiko Akito , Yamashita Naoyuki , Harada Kenji , Takeuchi Kosuke , Matsuo Shingo , Nakamura Masatoshi
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: the purpose of this study was to determine the contributions of mechanical, neural, morphological, and muscle quality factors on individual differences in the maximal ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM). Methods: A sample of 41 university students performed passive-dorsiflexion and morphological measurements. In the passive-dorsiflexion measurement, while the ankle was passively dorsiflexed, maximal dorsiflexion ROM was measured in addition to passive torque at a given angle and muscle–tendon junction (MTJ) displacement during the last 13° as mechanical factors, and stretch tolerance and muscle activation were measured as neural factors. In morphological measurements, the cross-sectional area, muscle thickness, muscle fascicle length, and pennation angle were measured. In addition, the echo intensity was evaluated as muscle quality. Subjects were divided into three groups (flexible, moderate, and tight) using the value of the maximal dorsiflexion ROM. Results: Maximal dorsiflexion ROM and stretch tolerance were greater in the flexible group than those in the moderate and tight groups. MTJ displacement was smaller in the flexible group than those in the moderate and tight groups. Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that stretch tolerance and passive torque at a given angle were selected as parameters to explain the maximal dorsiflexion ROM (adjusted R2 = 0.83). Conclusions: these results indicate that individual differences in maximal ankle dorsiflexion ROM are primarily related to mechanical and neural factors.
Retrieval of Three-Dimensional Wave Surfaces from X-Band Marine Radar Images Utilizing Enhanced Pix2Pix Model
Authors: Hou Lingyi , Wang Xiao , Yang Bo , Wei Zhiyuan , Sun Yuwen , Ma Yuxiang
Published: December 2024

In this study, we propose a novel method for retrieving the three-dimensional (3D) wave surface from sea clutter using both simulated and measured data. First, the linear wave superposition model and modulation principle are employed to generate simulated datasets comprising 3D wave surfaces and corresponding sea clutter. Subsequently, we develop a Pix2Pix model enhanced with a self-attention mechanism and a multiscale discriminator to effectively capture the nonlinear relationship between the simulated 3D wave surfaces and sea clutter. The model’s performance is evaluated through error analysis, comparisons of wave number spectra, and differences in wave surface reconstructions using a dedicated test set. Finally, the trained model is applied to reconstruct wave surfaces from sea clutter data collected aboard a ship, with results benchmarked against those derived from the Schrödinger equation. The findings demonstrate that the proposed model excels in preserving high-frequency image details while ensuring precise alignment between reconstructed images. Furthermore, it achieves superior retrieval accuracy compared to traditional approaches, highlighting its potential for advancing wave surface retrieval techniques.
Sonar-Based Simultaneous Localization and Mapping Using the Semi-Direct Method
Authors: Han Xu , Sun Jinghao , Zhang Shu , Dong Junyu , Yu Hui
Published: December 2024

The SLAM problem is a common challenge faced by ROVs working underwater, with the key issue being the accurate estimation of pose. In this work, we make full use of the positional information of point clouds and the surrounding pixel data. To obtain better feature extraction results in specific directions, we propose a method that accelerates the computation of the two-dimensional SO-CFAR algorithm, with the time cost being only a very slight increase compared to the one-dimensional SO-CFAR. We develop a sonar semi-direct method, adapted from the direct method used in visual SLAM. With the initialization from the ICP algorithm, we apply this method to further refine the pose estimation. To overcome the deficiencies of sonar images, we preprocess the images and reformulate the sonar imaging model in imitation of camera imaging models, further optimizing the pose by minimizing photometric error and fully leveraging pixel information. The improved front end and the accelerated two-dimensional SO-CFAR are assessed through quantitative experiments. The performance of SLAM in large real-world environments is assessed through qualitative experiments.
Enhanced Continental Weathering Triggered the Anoxia of Seawater and Mass Extinctions During the Late Ordovician
Authors: Tang Pan , Yang Xiangrong , Yan Detian
Published: December 2024

During the Late Ordovician period, changes in climate and mass extinctions were observed; however, the factors influencing these phenomena have not been fully understood. In order to understand the relationships among redox water conditions, climates, and mass extinctions in the Late Ordovician, this study analyzes the chemical index of alteration (CIA) in shales and 87Sr/86Sr in carbonate leachates as proxies of changes in chemical weathering intensity and chemical weathering rate in the Late Ordovician (mainly from Katian to Hirnantian). The results show that an enhanced chemical weathering rate (increased 87Sr/86Sr ratios) and decreased chemical weathering intensity (decreased CIA values) characterized the late Katian, which might be attributed to the global orogenesis and enhanced precipitation/runoff under the warming climate (late-Boda warming). This enhanced chemical weathering rate contributed to the CO2 drawdown in the P. pacificus biozone, corresponding to the initiation of cooling and further glaciation. Meanwhile, the enhanced weathering-induced high primary productivity could have contributed to the expansion of anoxic seawater in the Katian, which further caused the Katian extinction. The Hirnantian Glaciation was characterized by high 87Sr/86Sr ratios in carbonates and extremely low CIA values in shales, which were likely related to the exposure of continents during low sea level and the glacial grinding of unweathered rocks. This study shows that the highest denudation rate and lowest chemical weathering intensity in the Hirnantian stage might have resulted in enhanced CO2 release and contributed to the end of glaciation.
A Comparative Study on Acoustic Characteristics of Methane and Tetrahydrofuran Hydrate-Bearing Sediments
Authors: Zhao Wengao , Bu Qingtao , Wang Zihao , Liu Tong , Meng Qingguo , Zhao Yapeng , Hu Gaowei
Published: December 2024

Laboratory acoustic measurements of hydrate-bearing sediments serve as an important reference for the geological interpretation of seismic exploration data. Tetrahydrofuran (THF) hydrates are relatively easy to form with precise control of hydrate saturation, and they overcome the long time it takes for methane in sediments to form hydrate. However, when THF hydrates are used as a substitute for methane hydrate, their acoustic properties yield different results. This study reports the results of a series of laboratory experiments on the formation of methane and THF hydrate in quartz sand and the evaluation of their acoustic properties. It compares the experimental results with the results of calculations from micro-distribution models of the four hydrates using effective medium theory (EMT). Methane hydrate formed by the excess gas method has higher acoustic velocities than THF hydrate at 0–80% saturation, but at 80–100% saturation, the situation reverses, with THF hydrate having a higher wave velocity. The methane hydrate synthesis process follows a mixed micro-distribution, with grain coating predominating at low saturations, the pore-filling mixing mode dominating at medium saturations, and grain coating dominating at high saturations. In addition, THF hydrate has a slow-velocity growth at low saturation and is dominated by a pore-filling model and a load-bearing model at high saturation. We compared our experimental data with a compilation of similar published results to confirm their reliability and support our conclusions. Both hydrate types exhibit distinct micro-distributions across different saturations. Therefore, when testing the elastic characteristics of hydrate sediments, the distinct hydrate synthesis methods and micro-distribution should be considered, especially when using THF hydrate as an alternative to methane hydrate.
Intra- and Interpopulation Diversity of the Phytopathogenic Fungi of the Microdochium nivale Species
Authors: Gogoleva Olga A. , Ryazanov Egor A. , Murzagulova Guzalia Sh. , Ponomarev Sergey N. , Chastukhina Inna B. , Sakhabutdinov Ildar T. , Osipova Elena V. , Mannapova Gulnaz S. , Korzun Viktor N. , Ponomareva Mira L. , Gorshkov Vladimir Yu.
Published: December 2024

Our study investigates the intra- and interpopulation diversity of phytopathogenic fungi, using Microdochium nivale as a model organism. A total of 136 strains, representing two populations, were collected from different winter cereal crops (rye, wheat, and triticale) across two agrocenoses. In these strains, we analyzed and compared genetic and phenotypic traits, exploring potential relationships between them. Significant genetic and phenotypic diversity was revealed among the assayed strains, with most exhibiting distinctive genetic features compared to previously characterized strains from other countries. Both populations included highly virulent and lowly virulent strains, with the majority displaying similar virulence levels across different cereal crops. Some strains demonstrated differential virulence toward different crops, and some even exhibited a plant-beneficial effect on rye while being virulent to wheat and triticale. The percentages of strains with specific genetic traits were different in the two analyzed populations. Our study lays the groundwork for identifying genetic markers associated with phenotypic traits in the studied strains, which will aid in developing reliable diagnostics for predicting crop loss risk and improving disease management. Furthermore, it will assist in identifying reliable sources of resistance to M. nivale-induced diseases within the winter cereal gene pool.
Exogenous Trehalose Assists Zygosaccharomyces rouxii in Resisting High-Temperature Stress Mainly by Activating Genes Rather than Entering Metabolism
Authors: Xiao Xiong , Liu Quan , Zhang Qian , Yan Zhenzhen , Cai Dongbo , Li Xin
Published: December 2024

Zygosaccharomyces rouxii is a typical aroma-producing yeast in food brewing, but it has low heat resistance and poor proliferation ability at high temperature. Trehalose is generally considered to be a protective agent that helps stable yeast cells resist heat shock stress, but its functional mechanism for yeast cells in the adaptation period under heat stress is unclear. In this study, the physiological metabolism changes, specific gene transcription expression characteristics, and transcriptome differences of Z. rouxii under different carbon sources under high-temperature stress (40 °C) were compared to explore the mechanism of trehalose inducing Z. rouxii to recover and proliferate under high-temperature stress during the adaptation period. The results showed that high concentration of trehalose (20% Tre) could not be used as the main carbon source for the proliferation of Z. rouxii under long-term high-temperature stress, but it helped to maintain the stability of the cell population. The intracellular trehalose of Z. rouxii was mainly derived from the synthesis and metabolism of intracellular glucose, and the extracellular acetic acid concentration showed an upward trend with the improvement of yeast growth. A high concentration of trehalose (20% Tre) can promote the expression of high glucose receptor gene GRT2 (12.0-fold) and induce the up-regulation of HSF1 (27.1-fold), MSN4 (58.9-fold), HXK1 (8.3-fold), and other signal transduction protein genes, and the increase of trehalose concentration will maintain the temporal up-regulation of these genes. Transcriptome analysis showed that trehalose concentration and the presence of glucose had a significant effect on the gene expression of Z. rouxii under high-temperature stress. In summary, trehalose assists Z. rouxii in adapting to high temperature by changing gene expression levels, and assists Z. rouxii in absorbing glucose to achieve cell proliferation.
Are ChatGPT-Generated Headlines Better Attention Grabbers than Human-Authored Ones? An Assessment of Salient Features Driving Engagement with Online Media
Authors: Gherheș Vasile , Fărcașiu Marcela Alina , Cernicova-Buca Mariana
Published: December 2024

This study focuses on the case of news headlines in current online journalism, looking into the current possibilities opened by ChatGPT to generate such texts in an attention-grabbing manner. To assess the reaction of online readers to headlines (clickbait or click-worthy), an online survey was applied, involving Romanian students. A total of 100 original human-authored articles with clickbait headlines were extracted from a relevant Romanian database. ChatGPT was used to generate alternative headlines (one clickbait and one informative) based on the original texts. The resulting corpus of 100 headline triplets was offered to students for evaluation. More than 70% of the 600 participants in the survey preferred AI-generated headlines over the human-authored ones, indicating their experiences and behaviors in media consumption. The preferred headlines were further analyzed along lexical and grammatical characteristics, and stylistically, to pinpoint the features sparking readers’ curiosity and engagement. While on a cognitive level the investigated audience rejected clickbait headlines as being deceitful and frustrating, in practice less than 34% favored neutral and objective headlines. Also, the linguistic analysis provided insights into the mechanics of reader engagement and the effectiveness of various headline strategies. The results are useful to anticipate the adoption of AI as a creative partner in Romanian media practice.
Design and Evaluation of Integral Damping Bearing for Vibration Suppression in Multi-Disk Rotor Systems
Authors: Yan Wei , Wu Bowen , Pan Jiabao , Ye Dongdong , Fuyang Chengming
Published: December 2024

In response to vibration problems caused by unbalanced faults in multi-disk rotor systems of compressors, this research study proposes a new type of integral damping bearing (IDB) with an integral structure and better damping performance. The IDB’s stiffness and damping coefficients were acquired through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis. When the IDB was applied to a multi-disk rotor system, the analysis results show that it effectively lowered the bending stress and strain energy of the shaft and enhanced the stability of the system. The bending stress was reduced from 45 MPa (with traditional ball bearings) to 8.63 MPa (with the IDB). By using the IDB, the strain energy borne by the shaft and bearing was only 10.44%. Subsequently, experimental research was conducted on the suppression of unbalanced vibration by using the IDB under various working conditions. The peak amplitude of the rotor system with the IDB was reduced by 19.94%, and the amplitude at the 1X frequency was reduced by 32.73% compared with ball bearings. The experimental results indicate that the IDB can efficiently dampen the vibration of the rotor system. And it was found that the IDB has stable vibration reduction performance under various working conditions.
Efficient Hub-Based Platooning Management Considering the Uncertainty of Information
Authors: Ko Young Kwan , Ko Young Dae
Published: December 2024

Platooning technology, which reduces fuel consumption by decreasing aerodynamic drag, is emerging as a key solution for enhancing road efficiency and environmental sustainability in logistics. Conventional vehicle-to-vehicle communication has limitations when forming platoons across multiple trucking companies. To overcome these limitations, a hub-based platooning system has been proposed, enabling coordinated vehicle platoons through hubs distributed along highways. This study develops a mathematical model to optimize platoon formation at hubs, considering the reality that uncertainty in vehicle arrival times can be resolved as vehicles approach the hub and use vehicle-to-hub communication. The model applies robust optimization techniques to consider worst-case vehicle arrival scenarios and examine how the range of data exchange points—where exact arrival times become known—affects platoon efficiency. Numerical experiments demonstrate that if the range of data exchange points is sufficiently wide, optimal efficiency can be achieved even under uncertainty. Sensitivity analysis also confirms that reducing uncertainty enhances energy savings efficiency. This study provides practical insights into forming vehicle platoons in uncertain environments, contributing to the economic and environmental benefits of the logistics industry. Future studies could extend the model to multiple hubs and consider stochastic disruptions, such as communication failures.
Critical Observability Enforcement in Discrete Event Systems Using Differential Privacy
Authors: Zhang Jie , Li Zhiwu
Published: December 2024

In the context of discrete event systems (DESs), critical states usually refer to a system configuration of interest, describing certain important system properties, e.g., fault diagnosability, state/language opacity, and state/event concealment. Technically, a DES is critically observable if an intruder can always unambiguously infer, by observing the system output, whether the plant is currently in a predefined set of critical states or the current state set is disjointed with the critical states. In this paper, given a partially observable DES modeled with a finite-state automaton that is not critically observable, we focus on how to make it critically observable, which is achieved by proposing a novel enforcement mechanism based on differential privacy (DP). Specifically, we consider two observations where one observation cannot determine whether a system is currently in the predefined critical states (i.e., the observation violating the critical observability) while the other is randomly generated by the system. When these two observations are processed separately by the differential privacy mechanism (DPM), the system generates an output, exposed to the intruder, that is randomly modified such that its probability approximates the two observations. In other words, the intruder cannot determine the original input of a system by observing its output. In this way, even if the utilized DPM is published to the intruder, they are unable to identify whether critical observability is violated.
A Novel Hybrid Computational Technique to Study Conformable Burgers’ Equation
Authors: Ayebire Abdul-Majeed , Pasrija Atul , Manshahia Mukhdeep Singh , Arora Shelly
Published: December 2024

A fully discrete computational technique involving the implicit finite difference technique and cubic Hermite splines is proposed to solve the non-linear conformable damped Burgers’ equation with variable coefficients numerically. The proposed scheme is capable of solving the equation having singularity at t=0. The space direction is discretized using cubic Hermite splines, whereas the time direction is discretized using an implicit finite difference scheme. The convergence, stability and error estimates of the proposed scheme are discussed in detail to prove the efficiency of the technique. The convergence of the proposed scheme is found to be of order h2 in space and order (Δt)α in the time direction. The efficiency of the proposed scheme is verified by calculating error norms in the Eucledian and supremum sense. The proposed technique is applied on conformable damped Burgers’ equation with different initial and boundary conditions and the results are presented as tables and graphs. Comparison with results already in the literature also validates the application of the proposed technique.
Exploring the Differential Diagnosis of Adrenal Adenoma in the Context of Situs Ambiguous: A Clinical Case Study
Authors: Stanchev Pavel E. , Dimitrova Mariya , Makakova Desislava , Tilov Boris
Published: December 2024

Situs anomalies, including situs inversus and situs ambiguous (SAMB), are rare congenital conditions typically noted in pediatric populations, with SAMB being particularly uncommon in adults. This case study addresses the incidental discovery of situs ambiguous with polysplenia in a 65-year-old man evaluated for suspected adrenal adenoma. The patient’s medical history included benign prostatic hyperplasia and tuberculous pleurisy. Methods included a thorough physical examination and laboratory tests, which showed normal cortisol levels and ACTH rhythm. Contrast-enhanced CT imaging revealed multiple spleens near the right adrenal region, altered liver positioning, a truncated pancreas, and a right-sided stomach, while the right adrenal gland was not visualized. Notably, the patient exhibited minimal symptoms despite these significant anatomical anomalies. The findings underscore the rarity of situs ambiguous in adults and its unexpected association with endocrine pathology. This case highlights the importance of comprehensive imaging and a multidisciplinary approach in managing patients with unusual anatomical presentations. It suggests that situs anomalies may be more prevalent in adult populations than previously recognized and emphasizes the need for increased clinical awareness and evaluation in similar cases.
E2 Ubiquitin-Conjugating Enzymes Regulates Dengue Virus-2 Replication in Aedes albopictus
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Zheng Xueli , Wang Xuexue , Zhong Daibin , Zhou Guofa
Published: December 2024

Aedes albopictus, a major vector of dengue virus (DENV), has a global distribution. Identifying the key components of the ubiquitin system of A. albopictus essential for the replication of viruses could help identify targets for developing broad-spectrum antiviral strategies. This study explores the interaction between E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes (Ubc9) and DENV-2 proteins (NS1, NS5, and E) using cell culture and mosquito models. The replication of DENV-2 and the knockdown efficiency of the Ubc9 gene were assessed through reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The DENV-2-related protein expression was evaluated via Western blot analysis. The interaction between Ubc9 and DENV E and NS5 proteins was investigated through confocal immunofluorescence and co-immunoprecipitation. RNA interference technology was employed to silence Ubc9 expression in C6/36 cells and in A. albopictus mosquitoes. The expression level of Ubc9 in the DENV-2-infected group was 3.5-fold higher than that in the control group. The Ubc9 gene expression in the midgut tissue of the mosquito was significantly upregulated. Transfection of C6/36 and BHK-21 cells with the pAc5.1b-EGFP-Ubc9-HA vector led to the overexpression of Ubc9, which decreased the transcription levels of DENV E and NS1, NS5 proteins. The difference was statistically significant (F = 24.27, p < 0.01). The expression levels of DENV NS5 and E proteins significantly decreased after infection with DENV-2, suggesting that the depletion of Ubc9 may limit the replication of DENV-2. Ubc9 regulates DENV-2 replication through SUMOylation in the cells and A. albopictus, potentially affecting vector competence and DENV transmission. This is the first study to demonstrate that the Ubc9 of A. albopictus plays a significant role in regulating the replication of DENV in both mosquito cells and the mosquito itself. The study results may prove useful in designing appropriate therapeutic approaches for dengue and associated complications.
A Fast and Accurate Method for dq Impedance Modeling of Power Electronics Systems Based on Finite Differences
Authors: Hernández-Ramírez Julio , Segundo-Ramírez Juan , Visairo-Cruz Nancy , Guitiérrez C. Alberto Núñez
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a finite-difference-based method for numerically deriving the DQ impedance model of power electronics-based power systems, specifically tailored for stability analysis. The proposed method offers a computationally efficient alternative to traditional approaches by directly applying finite-difference approximations to the large-signal dynamic system, without relying on repetitive time-domain simulations or small-signal analytical models. This method eliminates the need for additional models or complex procedures to compute the steady-state solution, streamlining the impedance modeling process. The accuracy, efficiency, and precision of the proposed method are evaluated through comparative studies with analytical and time-domain perturbation methods. Results demonstrate that the proposed approach provides accuracy comparable to analytical models while significantly reducing computational effort, outperforming perturbation methods in both speed and precision. These findings highlight the practical value of the proposed method for real-time and large-scale system analysis, making it a robust tool for power systems stability assessment.
Mechanochemical Activation of Waste Clay Brick Powder with Addition of Waste Glass Powder and Its Influence on Pozzolanic Reactivity
Authors: Őze Csilla , Badacsonyi Nikolett , Makó Éva
Published: December 2024

The availability of industrially used supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs, e.g., fly ash) decreases due to the rise in renewable energy sources and recycling technologies. Therefore, it is essential to find alternative SCMs (e.g., waste glass and clay brick powder) that are locally available. Accordingly, in this paper, the mechanochemical activation of clay brick waste (CBW) with abrasive glass powder (GP) and its pozzolanic reactivity are investigated. The mixtures of CBW and GP in mass ratios of 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, and 25:75 were mechanochemically activated for 15, 30, 45, and 60 min. The physical, chemical, and structural changes of the mixtures were examined by X-ray diffractometry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and specific surface area measurements. The pozzolanic reactivity was characterized by the active silica content and the 28-day compressive strength of the binders (a mixture of ordinary Portland cement and activated material). The addition of GP favorably reduced the agglomeration and increased the active silica content of the activated mixtures (e.g., by 7–37% m/m at 15 min of mechanochemical activation). The 60 min of mechanochemical activation and the addition of 50% m/m of GP can increase the compressive strength by approximately 8%. Economically, the addition of 50% m/m of GP was found to be favorable, where only 30 min of mechanochemical activation resulted in a considerable increase in strength compared to that of the ordinary Portland cement.
Impact of Alkyl Spacer and Side Chain on Antimicrobial Activity of Monocationic and Dicationic Imidazolium Surface-Active Ionic Liquids: Experimental and Theoretical Insights
Authors: Wojcieszak Marta , Zięba Sylwia , Dubis Alina T. , Karolak Maciej , Pałkowski Łukasz , Marcinkowska Agnieszka , Skrzypczak Andrzej , Putowska Alicja , Materna Katarzyna
Published: December 2024

This study investigates a series of surface-active ionic liquids (SAILs), including both imidazolium monocationic and dicationic compounds. These compounds are promising candidates, as they combine unique surface properties with antimicrobial activity, aligning with modern trends in chemistry. The research encompasses synthesis, thermal analysis, and topographical assessment, focusing on the impact of the amphiphilic cationic moiety, alkyl chain length, and the spatial relationship between the imidazolium ring and the phenyl substituent on the compounds’ physicochemical behavior. An added value of this work lies in the integration of theoretical calculations related to their behavior in solution and at the air–water interface, revealing spontaneous adsorption (negative Gibbs free energy of adsorption values, ΔG0ads). The results indicate that dicationic imidazolium SAILs have a greater tendency to form micelles but are less effective at reducing surface tension compared to their monocationic counterparts. Topography analyses of SAILs with 12 carbon atoms further highlight these differences. Notably, the dicationic SAIL with 12 carbon atoms in the spacer exhibited an impressive MIC of 0.007 mmol L−1 against Candida albicans, consistent with findings showing that dicationic SAILs outperformed conventional antifungal agents, such as amphotericin B and fluconazole, at equivalent concentrations. Overall, the synthesized SAILs demonstrate superior surface activity compared to commercial surfactants and show potential as disinfectant agents.
Glutamate: Molecular Mechanisms and Signaling Pathway in Alzheimer’s Disease, a Potential Therapeutic Target
Authors: Puranik Nidhi , Song Minseok
Published: December 2024

Gamma-glutamate is an important excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS), which plays an important role in transmitting synapses, plasticity, and other brain activities. Nevertheless, alterations in the glutamatergic signaling pathway are now accepted as a central element in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathophysiology. One of the most prevalent types of dementia in older adults is AD, a progressive neurodegenerative illness brought on by a persistent decline in cognitive function. Since AD has been shown to be multifactorial, a variety of pharmaceutical targets may be used to treat the condition. N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor (NMDAR) antagonists and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) are two drug classes that the Food and Drug Administration has authorized for the treatment of AD. The AChEIs approved to treat AD are galantamine, donepezil, and rivastigmine. However, memantine is the only non-competitive NMDAR antagonist that has been authorized for the treatment of AD. This review aims to outline the involvement of glutamate (GLU) at the molecular level and the signaling pathways that are associated with AD to demonstrate the drug target therapeutic potential of glutamate and its receptor. We will also consider the opinion of the leading authorities working in this area, the drawback of the existing therapeutic strategies, and the direction for the further investigation.
Using Static Multiple Light Scattering to Develop Microplastic-Free Seed Film-Coating Formulations
Authors: Langlet Rozenn , Valentin Romain , Morard Marie , Raynaud Christine Delgado
Published: December 2024

Seed film-coatings used for seed treatment often contain microplastics which must be replaced. The objective of this study is to analyze the influence of substitutes (maltodextrin, waxy maize glucose syrup (WMGS), methylcellulose, tragacanth gum (TG), arabic gum (AG), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), ethoxylated rapeseed oil (ERO)), and xanthan gum as a thickener on the stability of a seed film-coating via Static Multiple Light Scattering (SMLS) technology. The results demonstrate that the incorporation of each polymer results in an increase in the quantity of particles migrating from the supernatant phase, but a concomitant decrease in their sedimentation rate and in the thickness of the supernatant phase (ec). Furthermore, the redispersion capacity (Cd) of the particles in the seed film-coating is also decreased after the introduction of each polymer, potentially due to their adsorption to the particles. The impact of the thickener is contingent upon the specific polymer employed. Its incorporation reduces the number of particles migrating from the supernatant phase and their sedimentation rate for all of the polymers studied except AG and ERO. However, it reduces ec for all seed film-coatings. Depending on the substitutes, thickener incorporation either improves (WMGS, maltodextrin, AG) or deteriorates (TG, PVA, ERO) Cd. The formulation containing tragacanth gum shows a redispersing capacity with Cd ≤ 1. This study introduces a novel analytical criterion, the redispersion capacity Cd, which can be employed to characterize dispersed systems.
Doubly Metathetic NiCl2-Catalyzed Coupling Between Bis(2-oxazolines) and Aldehydes: A Novel Access to Bis(ester-imine) Derivatives
Authors: Colombo Sara , Oble Julie , Poli Giovanni , Lo Presti Leonardo , Macetti Giovanni , Contini Alessandro , Broggini Gianluigi , Papis Marta , Loro Camilla
Published: December 2024

The coupling between bis(2-oxazolines) and two equivalents of aromatic aldehydes in the presence of catalytic amounts of NiCl2 affords an ester-imine product in synthetically useful yields. This virtually unknown, 100% atom-economic transformation involves the formal metathesis between the C=N double bond of the bis(2-oxazoline) moiety, which undergoes ring-opening, and the C=O double bond of the aldehyde. The scope of this transformation is studied, and a mechanism is proposed based on DFT calculations.
DPP-IV Inhibition by Solubilized Elastin Peptides from Yellowtail Bulbus Arteriosus Suppresses Ultraviolet-B-Induced Photoaging in Hairless Mice
Authors: Takemori Kumiko , Yamamoto Ei , Chikugo Takaaki , Shiratsuchi Eri , Kometani Takashi
Published: December 2024

Skin aging is intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic, or chronological, skin aging is an inevitable process of chronological and physiological alterations. The factors contributing to extrinsic skin aging involve sunlight, nutrients, and stress. Thus, extrinsic aging is thought to be superimposed over intrinsic aging and depends on the intensity and duration of environmental exposure and skin type (e.g., dry skin, oily skin, or eczema). The most significant extrinsic aging factor is UV radiation, which causes cellular senescence in a process known as photoaging. This study aimed to illuminate the mechanism whereby solubilized elastin peptide lotion (EL) from the bulbus arteriosus of yellowtail (Seriola quinqueradiata) prevents skin photoaging in hairless mice. EL reduced wrinkle formation, epidermal skin thickness, and Ki67 (cell growth marker) mRNA expression in skin tissues from ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiated mice. EL treatment also reduced glyoxalase-1 (key enzyme of glucose metabolism) levels in skin tissue. Although no significant differences in collagen and elastin contents were found in dermal areas, matrix metalloproteinase-12 (wrinkle-related marker) expression was reduced following EL application. Furthermore, skin DPP-IV/CD26 (new senescence marker) levels decreased following EL treatment in photoaging model mice. These results suggest that EL moderates skin damage caused by UVB irradiation by regulating senescence-related molecule expression.
Balanced Choices: Examining the Impact of Dietary Diversity on BMI, Health Risks, and Rising Rates of Obesity in Kenya
Authors: Korir Lilian , Ehiakpor Dennis Sedem , Danso-Abbeam Gideon , Djokoto Justice Gameli , Rizov Marian
Published: December 2024

The study examines the link between dietary diversity and BMI using data from Kenyan women aged 15–49. By exploring how dietary diversity affects BMI across various BMI categories, the study examines the demand for diet diversity and its impact on BMI. The results reveal a positive relationship between food diversity and BMI at all quantiles, suggesting that a more varied diet is associated with increased BMI levels among underweight, overweight, and obese individuals. This indicates that the correlation between dietary diversity and health outcomes in higher BMI categories may be ‘unfavourable’, with increased food diversity linked to a higher risk of ‘unfavourable’ BMI categories, i.e., overweight and obesity. This may be attributed to higher caloric intake and/or higher consumption of saturated fats and cholesterol from a more diverse diet, which can contribute to increased BMI. These findings highlight the need to consider moderation and balance in energy intake and the overall nutritional quality of diets when considering and evaluating diets and dietary diversity and in formulating and shaping food policies.
Characterization of Epoxy Adhesive for Marine Applications
Authors: Rodríguez-Dopico Francisco J. , Álvarez García A. , Tarrío-Saavedra Javier
Published: December 2024

The shipping industry faces the challenge of expanding its capabilities and mitigating its environmental impact. The utilization of adhesive bonding techniques has the potential to facilitate the construction of lighter ships with a reduced carbon footprint. In this work, a complete methodology has been established to study the properties of an adhesive bond between naval steel and the behavior of the bulk adhesive when introduced into seawater. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) has been used to determine the thermal properties. Single-lap-joint and tensile tests have been performed showing the negative influence of temperature on the mechanical properties. Seawater absorption has been studied by gravimetric tests. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and mechanical bulk tests have been carried out before and after aging. The water absorption is Fickian, and when a constant load is applied, the absorption occurs faster and in greater quantity, decreasing the stiffness and strength. An increase in the glass transition temperature was observed in the absence of a load, with no discernible change upon the application of load condition. Also, aged specimens with constant load exhibited a reduction in water content. These phenomena may be attributed to several diffusion processes.
Exploring Mesozooplankton Insights by Assessing the Ecological Status of Black Sea Waters Under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive
Authors: Bisinicu Elena , Lazar Luminita
Published: December 2024

Mesozooplankton are highly responsive to environmental changes, making their population dynamics and species composition important indicators of large-scale oceanic conditions. This study investigates the mesozooplankton composition, emphasizing biomass values across all three marine reporting units in the Romanian Black Sea from 2013 to 2020, covering 45 stations that represent transitional, coastal, and marine waters during the warm season. It also examines environmental parameters, such as temperature, salinity, and nutrient levels associated with eutrophication, that impact the mesozooplankton, as well as the environmental status of the pelagic habitat in this region, influenced by various hydrological and anthropogenic factors. Statistical analyses, including multivariate methods, were employed to investigate correlations between mesozooplankton biomass and environmental parameters, facilitating ecological assessments in accordance with the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) Descriptors 1 (Biodiversity) and 5 (Eutrophication) using indicators such as Mesozooplankton bBiomass, Copepoda Biomass, and Noctiluca scintillans iomass. The results indicated that Mesozooplankton and Copepoda Biomass did not reach good ecological status (GES). However, the Noctiluca scintillans Biomass indicator demonstrated that all marine reporting units achieved GES during the warm seasons. These findings underscore the dynamic nature of pelagic habitats and highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring to inform policy and conservation efforts.
Synthesis of Acylated Naphthohydroquinones Through Photo-Friedel–Crafts Acylation and Evaluation of Their Antibiotic Potential
Authors: Mercier Alexis , Monet Alizée , Yaseen Madyan A. , Hermanns M. Iris , Oelgemöller Michael
Published: December 2024

A variety of 1-(1,4-dihydroxynaphtalen-2-yl) ketones was synthesized using the photo-Friedel–Crafts acylation of 1,4-naphthoquinone with aldehydes. Subsequent oxidation using silver oxide readily furnished the corresponding 2-acylated 1,4 naphthoquinones. Notably, these naphthoquinone derivatives underwent spontaneous partial reduction upon storage. The synthesized compounds were subjected to antimicrobial screening. High inhibition effects on Staphylococcus aureus were found for the majority of compounds, which makes them interesting for potential future medicinal applications.
Key-Space-Enhanced Optical Chaos Secure Communication Scheme Using Integrated Mutually Coupled Lasers
Authors: Li Qingtian , Guo Yuanyuan , Jia Zhiwei , Wang Longsheng , Wang Anbang
Published: December 2024

We present a key-space-enhanced optical chaos secure communication scheme using a pair of integrated four-section semiconductor lasers as transceivers, which are commonly driven by a DFB laser with bidirectional injection. The transceiver consists of two DFB laser sections, which are mutually coupled through a passive phase section and an amplifier section. The center frequencies, bias currents, coupling rate, and phase shift of the integrated laser can be used as physical key parameters and thus enhance the dimension of key space. The numerical results show that a physical key space of about 270 is achieved with a data rate of 10 Gbit/s.
Introducing Aberrations into Human Eye Models with High Precision for Objective Visual Quality Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Zhao Xinheng , Li Da , Zhao Xing , Zhang Lin , Wang Yan
Published: December 2024

Objective visual quality evaluation using optical human eye models with actual eye aberration characteristics provides an important reference for clinical vision diagnosis and treatment. To ensure accurate evaluation, it is typically necessary to precisely introduce eye aberrations into the eye model by adjusting the model’s surface shape. However, the detailed relationship between eye aberrations and surface shapes is unclear, causing challenges in aberration introduction. In this paper, a method that enables the accurate introduction of target aberrations into an eye model for objective visual quality evaluation is proposed. The eye aberrations generated by the model’s surface are analyzed based on optical nodal aberration theory. The aberration calculation formulas are proposed and proved by a design example. Using the proposed method, the objective visual quality evaluation is conducted for the patients who underwent refractive surgery. The clinically measured postoperative eye aberrations are accurately introduced into the eye model with an error of less than 1.0 × 10−4 μm. The objective visual evaluation results are consistent with the statistical results of clinical contrast sensitivity tests. With the proposed method, it is expected to aid in clinical visual quality testing and assess the effect of refractive correction.
Grease, Oxygen, and Air Barrier Properties of Cellulose-Coated Copy Paper
Authors: Sabo Ronald , Schilling Cody , Clemons Craig , Franke Daniel , Gribbins Neil R. , Landry Michael , Hoxie Kimberly , Kitin Peter
Published: December 2024

Cellulose nanomaterials have been demonstrated to be excellent barriers against grease, oxygen, and other vapors, but their implementation in packaging materials is challenging because of numerous technical and practical challenges. In this work, the oxygen, air, grease, and heptane barrier performance of copy papers coated with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), oxidized cellulose nanofibrils (TOCNs), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) weas examined. The effects of different materials and processing conditions were evaluated for their impacts on the resulting barrier properties. TOCN coatings demonstrated significantly better barrier properties than CNC and CMC coatings due to the long-range networked structure of TOCN suspensions eliciting enhanced film formation at the paper surface. Neat coatings of nanocellulose did not readily result in strong oxygen barriers, but the addition of CMC and/or an additional waterborne water barrier coating was found to result in oxygen barriers suitable for packaging applications (1 cm3/m2·day transmission at low humidity with a 10 g/m2 coating). Cast films and thick coatings of CMC were good barriers to oxygen, grease, and air, and its addition to cellulose nanomaterial suspensions aided the coating process and reduced coating defects. In all cases, the incorporation of additional processing aids or coatings was necessary to achieve suitable barrier properties. However, maintaining the strong barrier properties of nanocellulose coatings after creasing remains challenging.
Micro-CT Structure Analysis on Dental Implants: Preliminary In Vitro Trial
Authors: Galletti Fulvia , D’Angelo Tommaso , Fiorillo Luca , Lo Giudice Paola , Irrera Natasha , Rizzo Giuseppina , Cervino Gabriele
Published: December 2024

Introduction: This preliminary in vitro study aims to evaluate the application of micro-CT in analyzing the microstructural coupling between dental implant fixtures and prosthetic abutments, with an emphasis on understanding the effectiveness and limitations of this technique in dental implantology. Materials and Methods: A search of PubMed, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library up to May 2024 identified eight relevant studies that examined different facets of dental implantology, such as osseointegration, implant stability, and the comparative accuracy of micro-CT versus other imaging techniques. A comparative micro-CT radiographic analysis was performed on five different implant fixtures with respective prosthetic and healing abutments, by using SkyScan1174 micro-CT. Results: The reviewed studies demonstrated that micro-CT is reliable for assessing bone quality, implant stability, and the microstructural integrity of dental implants. Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) studies reveal bone–implant contact (BIC) ratios of 40–80%, bone volume per total volume (BV/TV) values of 20–60%, and detect microgaps as small as 0.3 µm, highlighting its high-resolution capability (5–10 µm) for detailed implant analysis. The comparative analysis of the implant fixtures analyzed the implant–abutment connection, highlighting the relevance of implant design for ensuring stability. Conclusions: Micro-CT analysis has proven to be a valuable tool for evaluating the intricate microstructural properties of dental implants, offering insights into implant stability, bone quality, and osseointegration. The literature reviewed highlights consistent findings that underscore micro-CT’s accuracy and reliability in capturing high-resolution data, suggesting its potential as a standard imaging modality in implant research and clinical assessment.