bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coordination-Polymer-Derived Cu-CoO/C Nanocomposite Used in Fenton-like Reaction to Achieve Efficient Degradation of Organic Compounds
Authors: Xu Linxu , Liu Rupeng , Zhao Yubo , Shen Xue , Sun Cuizhen , Yang Zhigang , Wang Jin , Du Yufeng , Geng Shuying , Chen Feiyong
Published: January 2024

In this paper, carbon-matrix-supported copper (Cu) and cobaltous oxide (CoO) nanoparticles were obtained by using coordination polymers (CPs) as a precursor. The aqueous solutions of copper methacrylate (CuMA) and cobalt methacrylate (CoMA) were preferentially prepared, which were then mixed with anhydrous ethanol to fabricate dual metal ion coordination polymers (CuMA/CoMA). After calcination under an argon atmosphere, the Cu-CoO/C nanocomposite was obtained. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) showed that the material has banded morphology, and the dual functional nanoparticles were highly dispersed in the carbon matrix. The prepared material was used in a heterogeneous Fenton-like reaction, with the aim of replacing traditional ferric catalysts to solve pH constraints and the mass production of ferric slime. The obtained nanocomposite showed excellent catalytic performance on the degradation of methylene blue (MB) at near-neutral conditions; the discoloration efficiency is about 98.5% within 50 min in the presence of 0.15 mmol/mL H2O2 and 0.5 mg/mL catalyst. And good reusability was verified via eight cycles. The plausible pathway for MB discoloration and the possible catalytic mechanism was also proposed.
Nutrition and Chronobiology as Key Components of Multidisciplinary Therapeutic Interventions for Fibromyalgia and Associated Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Narrative and Critical Review
Authors: Carrasco-Querol Noèlia , Cabricano-Canga Lorena , Bueno Hernández Nerea , Gonçalves Alessandra Queiroga , Caballol Angelats Rosa , Pozo Ariza Macarena , Martín-Borràs Carme , Montesó-Curto Pilar , Castro Blanco Elisabet , Dalmau Llorca Maria Rosa , Aguilar Martín Carina
Published: January 2024

Fibromyalgia (FM) is often accompanied by chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). It is a poorly understood disorder that mainly affects women and leads to chronic pain, fatigue, and insomnia, among other symptoms, which decrease quality of life. Due to the inefficiency of current pharmacological treatments, increasing interest is being directed towards non-pharmacological multicomponent therapies. However, nutrition and chronobiology are often overlooked when developing multicomponent therapies. This narrative and critical review explore the relevance of nutritional and chronobiological strategies in the therapeutic management of FM and the often-associated CFS. Reviewed literature offers scientific evidence for the association of dietary habits, nutrient levels, body composition, gut microbiota imbalance, chronobiological alterations, and their interrelation with the development and severity of symptoms. This review highlights the key role of nutrition and chronobiology as relevant and indispensable components in a multidisciplinary approach to FM and CFS.
The Population-Attributable Fractions of Small-for-Gestational-Age Births: Results from the Japan Birth Cohort Consortium
Authors: Ishitsuka Kazue , Piedvache Aurélie , Kobayashi Sumitaka , Iwama Noriyuki , Nishimura Tomoko , Watanabe Masahiro , Metoki Hirohito , Iwata Hiroyoshi , Miyashita Chihiro , Ishikuro Mami , Obara Taku , Sakurai Kenichi , Rahman Mohammad Shafiur , Tanaka Keiko , Miyake Yoshihiro , Horikawa Reiko , Kishi Reiko , Tsuchiya Kenji J. , Mori Chisato , Kuriyama Shinichi , Morisaki Naho
Published: January 2024

A fetal growth restriction is related to adverse child outcomes. We investigated risk ratios and population-attributable fractions (PAF) of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) infants in the Japanese population. Among 28,838 infants from five ongoing prospective birth cohort studies under the Japan Birth Cohort Consortium, two-stage individual-participant data meta-analyses were conducted to calculate risk ratios and PAFs for SGA in advanced maternal age, pre-pregnancy underweight, and smoking and alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Risk ratio was calculated using modified Poisson analyses with robust variance and PAF was calculated in each cohort, following common analyses protocols. Then, results from each cohort study were combined by meta-analyses using random-effects models to obtain the overall estimate for the Japanese population. In this meta-analysis, an increased risk (risk ratio, [95% confidence interval of SGA]) was significantly associated with pre-pregnancy underweight (1.72 [1.42–2.09]), gestational weight gain (1.95 [1.61–2.38]), and continued smoking during pregnancy (1.59 [1.01–2.50]). PAF of underweight, inadequate gestational weight gain, and continued smoking during pregnancy was 10.0% [4.6–15.1%], 31.4% [22.1–39.6%], and 3.2% [−4.8–10.5%], respectively. In conclusion, maternal weight status was a major contributor to SGA births in Japan. Improving maternal weight status should be prioritized to prevent fetal growth restriction.
Enteropathogenic Yersinia with Public Health Relevance Found in Dogs and Cats in Finland
Authors: Fredriksson-Ahomaa Maria , Grönthal Thomas , Heljanko Viivi , Johansson Venla , Rantala Merja , Heikinheimo Annamari , Laukkanen-Ninios Riikka
Published: January 2024

Yersiniosis is a common zoonotic enteric disease among humans, which has been linked to pigs and contaminated food, especially pork. The epidemiology of yersiniosis is still obscure, and studies on yersiniosis in pets are very scarce. In this study, we performed pheno- and genotypic characterisation of 50 Yersinia strains isolated from pets in Finland between 2012 and 2023. Y. enterocolitica 4/O:3/ST135, the most common type in human yersiniosis, was also the most common type (68%) found in clinical faecal samples in our study. Also, human pathogenic Y. enterocolitica 2/O:9/ST139 and Y. pseudotuberculosis O:1/ST9 and O:1/ST42 strains carrying all essential pathogenic genes were identified. Three Y. enterocolitica 4/O:3/ST9 strains were multi-drug-resistant and two of them were highly related, showing one allelic difference (AD) with core genome multi-locus sequence typing. Non-pathogenic, genotypically highly diverse Y. enterocolitica 1A strains, showing more than 1000 ADs and missing the essential virulence genes, were also recognised in dogs and cats. Our study demonstrates that pets can excrete human pathogenic Yersinia in their faeces and may serve as an infection source for human yersiniosis, especially in families with small children in close contact with their pets.
Acute Effects of Albuterol on Ventilatory Capacity in Children with Asthma
Authors: Wong Michael W. H. , Chien Lung-Chang , Bhammar Dharini M.
Published: January 2024

Background: Children with asthma may have a reduced ventilatory capacity, which could lead to symptoms and early termination of a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of short-acting beta agonist (albuterol) administration on estimated ventilatory capacity in children with asthma. Methods: Fifteen children (eleven boys, 10.6 ± 0.9 years) completed spirometry at baseline, after 180 µg of albuterol, and after the CPET in this cross-sectional study. Ventilatory capacity was calculated from forced vital capacity (FVC) and isovolume forced expiratory time from 25 to 75% of FVC (isoFET25–75) as follows: FVC/2 × [60/(2 × isoFET25–75)]. Differences in outcome variables between baseline, after albuterol administration, and after the CPET were detected with repeated measures mixed models with Bonferroni post hoc corrections. Results: Estimated ventilatory capacity was higher after albuterol (68.7 ± 21.2 L/min) and after the CPET (75.8 ± 25.6 L/min) when compared with baseline (60.9 ± 22.0 L/min; P = 0.003). Because forced vital capacity did not change, the increased ventilatory capacity was primarily due to a decrease in isoFET25–75 (i.e., an increase in mid-flows or isoFEF25–75). Conclusion: Albuterol administration could be considered prior to CPET for children with asthma with relatively well-preserved FEV1 values to increase ventilatory capacity pre-exercise and potentially avoid symptom-limited early termination of testing.
Material-Sparing Feasibility Screening for Hot Melt Extrusion
Authors: Pluntze Amanda , Beecher Scott , Anderson Maria , Wright Dillon , Mudie Deanna
Published: January 2024

Hot melt extrusion (HME) offers a high-throughput process to manufacture amorphous solid dispersions. A variety of experimental and model-based approaches exist to predict API solubility in polymer melts, but these methods are typically aimed at determining the thermodynamic solubility and do not take into account kinetics of dissolution or the associated degradation of the API during thermal processing, both of which are critical considerations in generating a successful amorphous solid dispersion by HME. This work aims to develop a material-sparing approach for screening manufacturability of a given pharmaceutical API by HME using physically relevant time, temperature, and shear. Piroxicam, ritonavir, and phenytoin were used as model APIs with PVP VA64 as the dispersion polymer. We present a screening flowchart, aided by a simple custom device, that allows rapid formulation screening to predict both achievable API loadings and expected degradation from an HME process. This method has good correlation to processing with a micro compounder, a common HME screening industry standard, but only requires 200 mg of API or less.
Multiple Regulatory Signals and Components in the Modulation of Bicarbonate Transporters
Authors: Kim Hyeong Jae , Hong Jeong Hee
Published: January 2024

Bicarbonate transporters are responsible for the appropriate flux of bicarbonate across the plasma membrane to perform various fundamental cellular functions. The functions of bicarbonate transporters, including pH regulation, cell migration, and inflammation, are highlighted in various cellular systems, encompassing their participation in both physiological and pathological processes. In this review, we focused on recently identified modulatory signaling components that regulate the expression and activity of bicarbonate transporters. Moreover, we addressed recent advances in our understanding of cooperative systems of bicarbonate transporters and channelopathies. This current review aims to provide a new, in-depth understanding of numerous human diseases associated with the dysfunction of bicarbonate transporters.
Curcumin for Treating Breast Cancer: A Review of Molecular Mechanisms, Combinations with Anticancer Drugs, and Nanosystems
Authors: Zhu Jing , Li Qian , Wu Zhongping , Xu Ying , Jiang Rilei
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer (BC) has become the fifth most prevalent cause of cancer-related morbidity, attracting significant attention from researchers due to its heightened malignancy and drug resistance. Conventional chemotherapy approaches have proven inadequate in addressing all BC subtypes, highlighting the urgent need for novel therapeutic approaches or drugs. Curcumin (CUR), a phytochemical derived from Curcuma longa (turmeric), has shown substantial potential in inhibiting BC cell migration, metastasis, and proliferation. However, the use of CUR in this context comes with challenges due to its dynamic and easily degradable nature, poor aqueous solubility, low bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and swift systemic elimination, collectively limiting its clinical applications. As such, we provide an overview of the properties, synthesis, and characterization of the hybridization of CUR and its analogue with chemo-drug building blocks. We reviewed research from the last five years on CUR’s biogenesis with respect to the regulation of BC, revealing that CUR participates in arresting BC cells in the cell cycle and significantly induces apoptosis in BC cells. Information on the chemotherapeutic and antitumor mechanisms of CUR in BC, including regulation of the cell cycle, increased cell apoptosis, and inhibition of multidrug resistance (MDR), was compiled. Additionally, we provide an overview of CUR loaded into nanomaterials that are cotreated with other chemotherapeutic drugs, such as paclitaxel, thymoquinone, and tamoxifen. In this review, we discuss different types of nanoparticles that can be used for CUR delivery, such as polymeric nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and liposomes. By comparing the size, entrapment efficiency, drug-loading capacity, release time, biocompatibility, pharmaceutical scale, and reproducibility of various nanomaterials, we aimed to determine which formulations are better suited for loading CUR or its analogue. Ultimately, this review is expected to offer inspiring ideas, promising strategies, and potential pathways for developing advanced anti-BC strategy nanosystems in clinical practice.
Monolayer Chiral Metasurface for Generation of Arbitrary Cylindrical Vector Beams
Authors: Chen Qian , Liu Peijun , Fu Yanan , Zhang Shuoshuo , Zhang Yuquan , Yuan Xiaocong , Min Changjun
Published: January 2024

The cylindrical vector beam (CVB) has been widely studied and applied in recent years. However, many CVB generation methods suffer from complex systems, and large-size devices are required. Here, we propose a monolayer chiral metasurface composed of spin-sensitive unit cells which can generate different holograms for left- and right-circular polarization based on the combined modulation of geometric phase and detour phase. With a linearly polarized incident beam, the metasurface can generate CVBs with controllable polarization angles and orders, and even more complex vector beams. This work provides a new idea for the design of miniaturized optical devices for generating arbitrary vector beams.
Online Denoising Single-Pixel Imaging Using Filtered Patterns
Authors: Yang Zhaohua , Chen Xiang , Zhao Zhihao , Wu Lingan , Yu Yuanjin
Published: January 2024

Noise is inevitable in single-pixel imaging (SPI). Although post-processing algorithms can significantly improve image quality, they introduce additional processing time. To address this issue, we propose an online denoising single-pixel imaging scheme at the sampling stage, which uses the filter to optimize the illumination modulation patterns. The image is retrieved through the second-order correlation between the modulation patterns and the intensities detected by the single-pixel detector. Through simulations and experiments, we analyzed the impact of sampling rate, noise intensity, and filter template on the reconstructed images of both binary and grayscale objects. The results demonstrate that the denoising effect is comparable to the imaging-first followed by post-filtering procedures, but the post-processing time is reduced for the same image quality. This method offers a new way for rapid denoising in SPI, and it should be particularly advantageous in applications where time-saving is of paramount importance, such as in image-free large target classification.
A Tutorial on the One-Dimensional Theory of Electron-Beam Space-Charge Effect and Steady-State Virtual Cathode
Authors: Jiang Weihua
Published: January 2024

The space-charge effects of pulsed high-current electron beams are very important to high-power particle beam accelerators and high-power microwave devices. The related physical phenomena have been studied for decades, and a large number of informative publications can be found in numerous scientific journals over many years. This review article is aimed at systematically summarizing most of the previous findings in a logical manner. Using a normalized one-dimensional mathematical model, analytical solutions have been obtained for the space-charge-limited current of both planar diode and drifting space. In addition, in the case of a beam current higher than the space-charge-limited current, the virtual cathode behavior and beam current reflection are quantitively studied. Furthermore, the criteria of steady-state virtual cathode formation are investigated, which leads to the physical understanding of the unstable nature of the virtual cathode. This review article is expected to serve as an integrated source of related information for young researchers and students working on high-power microwaves and pulsed particle beams.
Surface Modification Progress for PLGA-Based Cell Scaffolds
Authors: Yan Bohua , Hua Yabing , Wang Jinyue , Shao Tianjiao , Wang Shan , Gao Xiang , Gao Jing
Published: January 2024

Poly(lactic-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a biocompatible bio-scaffold material, but its own hydrophobic and electrically neutral surface limits its application as a cell scaffold. Polymer materials, mimics ECM materials, and organic material have often been used as coating materials for PLGA cell scaffolds to improve the poor cell adhesion of PLGA and enhance tissue adaptation. These coating materials can be modified on the PLGA surface via simple physical or chemical methods, and coating multiple materials can simultaneously confer different functions to the PLGA scaffold; not only does this ensure stronger cell adhesion but it also modulates cell behavior and function. This approach to coating could facilitate the production of more PLGA-based cell scaffolds. This review focuses on the PLGA surface-modified materials, methods, and applications, and will provide guidance for PLGA surface modification.
Advancing Methodologies for Elemental Transfer Quantification in The Submerged Arc Welding Process: A Case Study of CaO-SiO2-MnO Flux
Authors: Fan Jun , Zhang Jin , Zhang Dan
Published: January 2024

In submerged arc welding, evaluating elemental transfer behaviors is critical for selecting and designing welding materials. Accurate assessment of O, Si, and Mn transfer behavior is essential for ensuring process quality, particularly when silicon-manganese fluxes are applied. Traditional quantification methods, however, focus only on chemical reactions in the weld pool zone, potentially overlooking the cross-zone elemental transfer behavior and leading to significant predictive inaccuracies. This study investigates the CaO-SiO2-MnO flux, a prevalent silicon-manganese flux, focusing on O, Si, and Mn, which exhibit notable transfer behaviors of O, Si, and Mn. By employing a multi-zone approach and integrating various scientific principles, the research aims to improve the accuracy of predicting elemental transfer behaviors and deepen the understanding of the metallurgical processes in submerged arc welding when silicon-manganese fluxes are employed. The study proposes strategic enhancements to traditional quantification methods, which may offer valuable insights for the improvement of industry standards. This study demonstrates that considering only the local thermodynamic equilibrium of the weld pool zone when quantifying the transfer behavior of elements may lead to predictive errors, especially for easily evaporating metallic elements. By incorporating a cross-zone assessment for submerged arc welding process, i.e., introducing new quantifying parameters (Δd and Δw), the predictive accuracy of the transfer behavior of elements and their cross-zone actions can be enhanced.
Assessment of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Potential of Phenolic Extracts from Post-Distillation Solid Residues of Oregano, Rosemary, Sage, Lemon Balm, and Spearmint
Authors: Bouloumpasi Elisavet , Hatzikamari Magdalini , Christaki Stamatia , Lazaridou Athina , Chatzopoulou Paschalina , Biliaderis Costas G. , Irakli Maria
Published: January 2024

Medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) are potential sources of natural polyphenols. Solid residues (SRs) from the essential oil (EO) industry are produced in significant volumes and may be used as natural sources of bioactive compounds. Therefore, this work was designed to examine the antioxidant and antibacterial characteristics of phenolic extracts obtained from SRs that have remained after EO distillation. SR extracts of Greek oregano, rosemary, spearmint, lemon balm, and Greek sage were assessed for their total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, and Bacillus cereus in the concentration range of 500-3000 mg/L. The rosemary and Greek sage extracts exhibited the strongest antibacterial activities against all the Gram-positive species, while the spearmint and oregano extracts were less effective and only had an effect at the highest concentration used. The lemon balm extract did not show any inhibitory effect; however, it had the highest TPC, showing moderate antioxidant activity, along with spearmint. The oregano extract exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity, followed by Greek sage and rosemary. The experimental findings pointed to the potential use of extracts from post-distillation residues of MAPs as antimicrobials in the food industry, in addition to being rich sources of bioactive compounds.
Musicking and Soundscapes amongst Magical-Religious Witches: Community and Ritual Practices
Authors: Cornish Helen
Published: January 2024

Drumming and chanting are core practices in modern magical-religious Witchcraft in the absence of unifying texts or standardized rituals. Song and musicality contribute towards self-creation and community making. However, Nature Religions and alternate spiritualities are seldom included in surveys of religious musicking or soundscapes. This article considers musicality in earlier publications on modern Witchcraft, as well as the author’s fieldwork with magical-religious Witches in the UK, to show the valuable contribution they make to discussions on religious belonging and the sensorium through song, music, percussion, and soundscapes.
Analogia Entis in a Monastic Vision: Thomas Merton’s Answer to the Modern World
Authors: Xu Xiaoyan
Published: January 2024

The idea of analogia entis has undergone a long intellectual development and gained unprecedented importance in the twentieth century with the elaboration of Przywara. It seems difficult to correlate the development of this classical theological idea with Thomas Merton (1915–1968). Nevertheless, in the face of the challenges of the modern world, Merton’s way of thinking resonates with many of the connotations of analogia entis as articulated by Przywara. This paper attempts to argue that Merton, in his late works, alludes to the metaphysics, epistemology, and, by extension, the methodology of inter-religious dialogue that analogia entis entails by elaborating on the ideas of natural contemplation, symbolism, and metaphysical intuition.
Rao and Wald Tests for Moving Target Detection in Forward Scatter Radar
Authors: Wang Zeyu , Chen Hongmeng , Li Yachao , Wang Dewu
Published: January 2024

This paper deals with adaptive moving target detection for a forward scatter radar in complex Gaussian noise. The echoes received by the forward scatter radar include not only the noise and the possible target signals but also the direct signals. To suppress the direct signals and detect the target signals, Rao and Wald tests are derived in two cases: the secondary data which contain no target signal are available or not available. Different from monostatic radar, it is proved that the derived Rao and Wald detectors for the forward scatter radar have the same test statistics as the generalized likelihood ratio test-based detector in the complex Gaussian noise both when the secondary data are available or not available. The numerical evaluation further demonstrates the equivalence and the effectiveness of the proposed detectors.
Noncoherent Channel Combining for GNSS Signal Tracking with an Adaptive Antenna Array
Authors: Li Song , Lin Honglei , Tang Xiaomei , Ma Chunjiang , Wang Feixue
Published: January 2024

Adaptive antenna arrays are widely used to protect Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers from interference. However, conventional blind anti-jamming array processing methods can cause satellite signal attenuation, which reduces signal tracking precision and measurement accuracy. To alleviate this problem, this paper proposes the noncoherent channel combining method for GNSS signal tracking with an adaptive antenna array. A two-stage processing architecture is applied in the proposed method, where the first stage implements interference suppression, and the second stage achieves noncoherent channel combining. The proposed method has the advantage of blind characteristics that can be implemented without any other auxiliary information. It also reveals a unified processing architecture for anti-jamming array processing methods. Thus, a detailed comparison and analysis of the proposed method with several typical blind anti-jamming methods is performed. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method and its superiority over existing methods in terms of tracking performance.
Temporal Stability of Grassland Soil Moisture Utilising Sentinel-2 Satellites and Sparse Ground-Based Sensor Networks
Authors: Basu Rumia , Daly Eve , Brown Colin , Shnel Asaf , Tuohy Patrick
Published: January 2024

Soil moisture is important for understanding climate, water resources, water storage, and land use management. This study used Sentinel-2 (S-2) satellite optical data to retrieve surface soil moisture at a 10 m scale on grassland sites with low hydraulic conductivity soil in a climate dominated by heavy rainfall. Soil moisture was estimated after modifying the Optical Trapezoidal Model to account for mixed land cover in such conditions. The method uses data from a short-wave infra-red band, which is sensitive to soil moisture, and four vegetation indices from optical bands, which are sensitive to overlying vegetation. Scatter plots of these data from multiple, infrequent satellite passes are used to define the range of surface moisture conditions. The saturated and dry edges are clearly non-linear, regardless of the choice of vegetation index. Land cover masks are used to generate scatter plots from data only over grassland sites. The Enhanced Vegetation Index demonstrated advantages over other vegetation indices for surface moisture estimation over the entire range of grassland conditions. In poorly drained soils, the time lag between satellite surface moisture retrievals and in situ sensor soil moisture at depth must be part of the validation process. This was achieved by combining an approximate solution to the Richards’ Equation, along with measurements of saturated and residual moisture from soil samples, to optimise the correlations between measurements from satellites and sensors at a 15 cm depth. Time lags of 2–4 days resulted in a reduction of the root mean square errors between volumetric soil moisture predicted from S-2 data and that measured by in situ sensors, from ~0.1 m3/m3 to <0.06 m3/m3. The surface moisture results for two grassland sites were analysed using statistical concepts based upon the temporal stability of soil water content, an ideal framework for the intermittent Sentinel-2 data in conditions of persistent cloud cover. The analysis could discriminate between different natural drainages and surface soil textures in grassland areas and could identify sub-surface artificial drainage channels. The techniques are transferable for land-use and agricultural management in diverse environmental conditions without the need for extensive and expensive in situ sensor networks.
Routing Selection Algorithm for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks Based on Neighbor Node Density
Authors: Li Xiaolin , Bian Xin , Li Mingqi
Published: January 2024

In the process of data transmission in mobile ad hoc networks, it is essential to establish optimal routes from source nodes to destination nodes. However, as network density increases, this process is often accompanied by a significant rise in network overhead. To address this issue, the ND-AODV (neighborhood density AODV) protocol has been introduced, which reduces the probability of transmitting control information in high-density node environments to mitigate network overhead. Nevertheless, this may come at the cost of reduced routing accuracy, potentially leading to unnecessary resource wastage in certain scenarios. Furthermore, ND-AODV does not comprehensively consider the location of the receiving nodes, which limits its ability to reduce network overhead effectively. To overcome these limitations, this paper introduces a novel routing approach, known as CND-AODV (common neighborhood density AODV). In comparison to ND-AODV, CND-AODV offers a more comprehensive solution to the challenges posed by high-density network environments. It intelligently processes control information based on the special positioning of the receiving nodes, thereby significantly reducing unnecessary network overhead. Through simulation experiments comparing performance metrics such as throughput, packet delivery rate, and latency, the results clearly indicate that CND-AODV substantially decreases network overhead, enhancing network performance. Compared to ND-AODV, this innovative routing approach exhibits significant advantages. It provides a more efficient and reliable solution for ad hoc networks in high-density environments.
Integrating EEG and Machine Learning to Analyze Brain Changes during the Rehabilitation of Broca’s Aphasia
Authors: Močilnik Vanesa , Rutar Gorišek Veronika , Sajovic Jakob , Pretnar Oblak Janja , Drevenšek Gorazd , Rogelj Peter
Published: January 2024

The fusion of electroencephalography (EEG) with machine learning is transforming rehabilitation. Our study introduces a neural network model proficient in distinguishing pre- and post-rehabilitation states in patients with Broca’s aphasia, based on brain connectivity metrics derived from EEG recordings during verbal and spatial working memory tasks. The Granger causality (GC), phase-locking value (PLV), weighted phase-lag index (wPLI), mutual information (MI), and complex Pearson correlation coefficient (CPCC) across the delta, theta, and low- and high-gamma bands were used (excluding GC, which spanned the entire frequency spectrum). Across eight participants, employing leave-one-out validation for each, we evaluated the intersubject prediction accuracy across all connectivity methods and frequency bands. GC, MI theta, and PLV low-gamma emerged as the top performers, achieving 89.4%, 85.8%, and 82.7% accuracy in classifying verbal working memory task data. Intriguingly, measures designed to eliminate volume conduction exhibited the poorest performance in predicting rehabilitation-induced brain changes. This observation, coupled with variations in model performance across frequency bands, implies that different connectivity measures capture distinct brain processes involved in rehabilitation. The results of this paper contribute to current knowledge by presenting a clear strategy of utilizing limited data to achieve valid and meaningful results of machine learning on post-stroke rehabilitation EEG data, and they show that the differences in classification accuracy likely reflect distinct brain processes underlying rehabilitation after stroke.
Event-Triggered Distributed Fusion Estimator for Asynchronous Markov Jump Systems with Correlated Noises and Fading Measurements
Authors: Zhang Rui , Lin Honglei
Published: January 2024

In this study, we investigate event-triggered distributed fusion estimation for asynchronous Markov jump systems subject to correlated noises and fading measurements. The measurement noises are interrelated, and they are simultaneously coupled with the system noise. The sensor samples measurements uniformly, and the sampling rates of the sensors are different. First, the asynchronous system is synchronized at state update points; then, the local filter is obtained. Furthermore, a variance-based event-triggered strategy is introduced between the local estimator and the fusion center to decrease the energy consumption of network communication. Then, a distributed fusion estimation algorithm is proposed using a matrix-weighted fusion criterion. Finally, the effectiveness of the algorithm is verified using computer simulations.
Central European Group for Separation Sciences (CEGSS)—Brief History and Memoirs on the Creation and Activity
Authors: Buszewski Bogusław , Berek Dušan , Coman Virginia
Published: January 2024

The origin of the International Symposia on Separation Sciences (ISSS) can be found in the national gas chromatography scientific meetings held in Zagreb, Croatia, from 1967 and later at Plitvice Lakes until 1988 [...]
Intensity Distribution of Collegiate Cross-Country Competitions
Authors: Perez Noah , Miller Payton , Farrell John W.
Published: January 2024

The primary purpose of the current investigation was to perform an intensity distribution analysis of a collegiate cross-country (CC) competition, with a secondary purpose to compare race times (RT) with modeled performance times (MPT). Participants completed an incremental treadmill test to determine gas exchange threshold (GET), while the three-minute all-out test was conducted on a 400 m outdoor track to determine critical velocity (CV) and D prime (D′). GET and CV were used as physiological markers for the intensity zones based on heart rate (HR) and running velocity (RV), while CV and D′ were used to determine modeled performance times. Participants wore a Global Positioning System (GPS) watch and heart rate (HR) monitor during competition races. Statistically, less time was spent in HR Zone 1 (12.1% ± 13.7%) compared to Zones 2 (37.6% ± 30.2%) and 3 (50.3% ± 33.7%), while a statically greater amount of time was spent in RV Zone 2 (75.0% ± 20.7%) compared to Zones 1 (8.4% ± 14.0%) and 3 (16.7% ± 19.1%). RTs (1499.5 ± 248.5 seconds (s)) were statistically slower compared to MPTs (1359.6 ± 192.7 s). The observed differences in time spent in each zone are speculated to be related to the influence of environmental conditions on internal metrics and difference in the kinetics of HR and running velocity. Differences in RTs and MPTs are likely due to the MPT equation modeling all-out performance and not considering race strategies.
Assessing the Impact of Digitalization, Tax Revenues, and Energy Resource Capacity on Environmental Quality: Fresh Evidence from CS-ARDL in the EKC Framework
Authors: Ben Youssef Adel , Dahmani Mounir
Published: January 2024

This study examines the dynamic relationships between digitalization, environmental tax revenues, and energy resource capacity within the framework of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC), focusing on their combined impact on environmental quality. It employs a cross-sectional augmented autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) approach, an advanced technique for complex panel data that is specifically designed to address issues of cross-sectional dependence and slope heterogeneity inherent in panel data analysis. The research covers 88 countries, including both low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and high-income countries (HICs), to understand how digitalization, as a driving force of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, interacts with environmental taxation and energy resource management to affect greenhouse gas emissions. The results reveal distinct effects of environmental taxes and energy capacity on environmental quality, with marked differences between LMICs and HICs. In HICs, technological progress, especially in information and communication technology (ICT), is found to contribute significantly to environmental quality. For LMICs, the effects are less evident, and the findings suggest the need for tailored strategies in environmental policy and energy management. By providing empirical evidence on the differential impacts of digitalization and energy policies in different economic contexts, this research enriches the environmental economics discourse. It highlights the need for policy frameworks tailored to specific contexts that effectively balance economic growth with sustainable development goals, thereby providing insightful implications for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
An Architecture Superposing Indefinite Causal Order and Path Superposition Improving Pauli Channels’ Parameter Estimation
Authors: Cardoso-Isidoro Carlos , Delgado Francisco
Published: January 2024

Quantum Parameter Estimation (QPE) is commonly led using quantum probe states for the characterization of quantum systems. For these purposes, Quantum Fisher Information (QFI) plays a crucial role by imposing a lower bound for the parametric estimation of quantum channels. Several schemes for obtaining QFI lower bounds have been proposed, particularly for Pauli channels regarding qubits. Those schemes commonly employ either the individual channel, multiple copies of it, or arrangements including communication architectures. The present work aims to propose an architecture involving path superposition and causal indefinite order in superposition. Thus, by controlling the symmetry balance of this superposition, it reaches notable improvements in quantum parameter estimation. The proposed architecture has been tested to find the best possible QPE bounds for a representative and emblematic set of Pauli channels. Further, for the most reluctant channels, it was revisited testing the architecture again under a primary path superposition (using double teleportation) and also using entangled probe states to recombine their outputs with the original undisturbed state. Notable outcomes practically near zero were found for the QPE bounds, stating a hierarchy between the approaches, but anyway reaching a perfect theoretical QPE, particularly for the last path superposition including the proposed architecture.
A Conflict Evidence Fusion Method Based on Bray–Curtis Dissimilarity and the Belief Entropy
Authors: Liu Yue , Zou Tianji , Fu Hongyong
Published: January 2024

The D-S evidence theory is extensively applied to manage uncertain information. However, the theory encounters challenges related to conflicts during the fusion process, impeding the precise identification of multi-subset focal elements. This paper introduces a novel method for conflicting evidence fusion that incorporates the Bray–Curtis dissimilarity, cosine distance of the included angle, and belief entropy. The method comprehensively evaluates three aspects—evidence similarity, evidence distance, and the amount of information—while considering factors like the credibility and uncertainty of evidence. Initially, the evidence undergoes conversion into single-subset focal element evidence through the improved Pignistic probability function. Subsequently, the credibility between pieces of evidence is established using the Bray–Curtis dissimilarity and angle cosine distance, while the uncertainty of the evidence is computed using belief entropy. The weighted correction coefficient of the evidence is determined by integrating the credibility and uncertainty of the evidence. Subsequently, the corrected evidence is fused using the D-S evidence theory to derive the final judgment. An analysis of two sets of arithmetic examples, considering both single-subset and multi-subset focal elements, demonstrates the faster convergence and enhanced accuracy and reliability of the proposed method in comparison to existing approaches.
Binding Affinity and Mechanism of Six PFAS with Human Serum Albumin: Insights from Multi-Spectroscopy, DFT and Molecular Dynamics Approaches
Authors: Peng Mingguo , Xu Yang , Wu Yao , Cai Xuewen , Zhang Weihua , Zheng Lu , Du Erdeng , Fu Jiajun
Published: January 2024

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) bioaccumulate in the human body, presenting potential health risks and cellular toxicity. Their transport mechanisms and interactions with tissues and the circulatory system require further investigation. This study investigates the interaction mechanisms of six PFAS with Human Serum Albumin (HSA) using multi-spectroscopy, DFT and a molecular dynamics approach. Multi-spectral analysis shows that perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) has the best binding capabilities with HSA. The order of binding constants (298 K) is as follows: “Perfluorononanoic Acid (PFNA, 7.81 × 106 L·mol−1) > Perfluoro-2,5-dimethyl-3,6-dioxanonanoic Acid (HFPO-TA, 3.70 × 106 L·mol−1) > Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA, 2.27 × 105 L·mol−1) > Perfluoro-3,6,9-trioxadecanoic Acid (PFO3DA, 1.59 × 105 L·mol−1) > Perfluoroheptanoic Acid (PFHpA, 4.53 × 103 L·mol−1) > Dodecafluorosuberic Acid (DFSA, 1.52 × 103 L·mol−1)”. Thermodynamic analysis suggests that PFNA and PFO3DA’s interactions with HSA are exothermic, driven primarily by hydrogen bonds or van der Waals interactions. PFHpA, DFSA, PFOA, and HFPO-TA’s interactions with HSA, on the other hand, are endothermic processes primarily driven by hydrophobic interactions. Competitive probe results show that the main HSA–PFAS binding site is in the HSA structure’s subdomain IIA. These findings are also consistent with the findings of molecular docking. Molecular dynamics simulation (MD) analysis further shows that the lowest binding energy (−38.83 kcal/mol) is fund in the HSA–PFNA complex, indicating that PFNA binds more readily with HSA. Energy decomposition analysis also indicates that van der Waals and electrostatic interactions are the main forces for the HSA–PFAS complexes. Correlation analysis reveals that DFT quantum chemical descriptors related to electrostatic distribution and characteristics like ESP and ALIE are more representative in characterizing HSA–PFAS binding. This study sheds light on the interactions between HSA and PFAS. It guides health risk assessments and control strategies against PFAS, serving as a critical starting point for further public health research.
An Effective Field Theory Study of Medium Heavy Quark Evolution
Authors: Escobedo Miguel Ángel
Published: January 2024

The evolution of hard probes in a medium is a complex multiscale problem that significantly benefits from the use of Effective Field Theories (EFTs). Within the EFT framework, we aim to define a series of EFTs in a way that addresses each energy scale individually in separate steps. However, studying hard probes in a medium presents challenges. This is because an EFT is typically constructed by formulating the most general Lagrangian compatible with the problem’s symmetries. Nevertheless, medium effects may not always be encoded adequately in an effective action. In this paper, we construct an EFT that is valid for studying the evolution of a heavy quark in a QCD plasma containing few other heavy quarks, where degrees of freedom with an energy of the order of the temperature scale are integrated out. Through this example, we explicitly demonstrate how to handle the doubling of degrees that arise in non-equilibrium field theory. As a result, we derive a Fokker–Planck equation using only symmetry and power counting arguments. The methods introduced in this paper will pave the way for future developments in the study of quarkonium suppression.
Evaluation and Immunogenicity of Combined Liposome-Based Vaccine Candidates against Hepatitis E and B Viruses in Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Deshmukh Tejaswini , Shah Rachita , Devhare Pradip , Lole Kavita , Arankalle Vidya
Published: January 2024

The administration of vaccines using a combination approach ensures better coverage and reduces the number of injections and cost. The present study assessed liposome-complexed DNA-corresponding proteins of hepatitis E and B viruses (HEV and HBV) as combined vaccine candidates in rhesus monkeys. The HEV and HBV components consisted of 450 bps, neutralizing the epitope/s (NE) region, and 685 bps small (S) envelope gene-corresponding proteins, respectively. Three groups (n = 2 monkeys/group) were intramuscularly immunized with a total of three doses of NE Protein (Lipo-NE-P), NE DNA + Protein (Lipo-NE-DP), and each of NE and S DNA + Protein (Lipo-NES-DP), respectively, given one month apart. All immunized monkeys were challenged with 10,000 fifty percent monkey infectious dose of homologous HEV strain. Post-immunization anti-HEV antibody levels in monkeys were 59.4 and 148.4 IU/mL (Lipo-NE-P), 177.0 and 240.8 IU/mL (Lipo-NE-DP), and 240.7 and 164.9 IU/mL (Lipo-NES-DP). Anti-HBV antibody levels in Lipo-NES-DP immunized monkeys were 58,786 and 6213 mIU/mL. None of the challenged monkeys showed viremia and elevation in serum alanine amino transferase levels. Monkeys immunized with Lipo-NE-DP and Lipo-NES-DP exhibited a sterilizing immunity, indicating complete protection, whereas monkeys immunized with Lipo-NE-P showed limited viral replication. In conclusion, the liposome-complexed DNA-corresponding proteins of HEV and HBV induced protective humoral immune responses to both components in monkeys and are worth exploring further.
New Emerging Targets in Cancer Immunotherapy: The Role of B7-H3
Authors: Koumprentziotis Ioannis-Alexios , Theocharopoulos Charalampos , Foteinou Dimitra , Angeli Erasmia , Anastasopoulou Amalia , Gogas Helen , Ziogas Dimitrios C.
Published: January 2024

Immune checkpoints (ICs) are molecules implicated in the fine-tuning of immune response via co-inhibitory or co-stimulatory signals, and serve to secure minimized host damage. Targeting ICs with various therapeutic modalities, including checkpoint inhibitors/monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and CAR-T cells has produced remarkable results, especially in immunogenic tumors, setting a paradigm shift in cancer therapeutics through the incorporation of these IC-targeted treatments. However, the large proportion of subjects who experience primary or secondary resistance to available IC-targeted options necessitates further advancements that render immunotherapy beneficial for a larger patient pool with longer duration of response. B7-H3 (B7 Homolog 3 Protein, CD276) is a member of the B7 family of IC proteins that exerts pleiotropic immunomodulatory effects both in physiologic and pathologic contexts. Mounting evidence has demonstrated an aberrant expression of B7-H3 in various solid malignancies, including tumors less sensitive to current immunotherapeutic options, and has associated its expression with advanced disease, worse patient survival and impaired response to IC-based regimens. Anti-B7-H3 agents, including novel mAbs, bispecific antibodies, ADCs, CAR-T cells, and radioimmunotherapy agents, have exhibited encouraging antitumor activity in preclinical models and have recently entered clinical testing for several cancer types. In the present review, we concisely present the functional implications of B7-H3 and discuss the latest evidence regarding its prognostic significance and therapeutic potential in solid malignancies, with emphasis on anti-B7-H3 modalities that are currently evaluated in clinical trial settings. Better understanding of B7-H3 intricate interactions in the tumor microenvironment will expand the oncological utility of anti-B7-H3 agents and further shape their role in cancer therapeutics.