bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fundus Albipunctatus Associated with Biallelic LRAT Gene Mutation: A Case Report with Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Tan Wendy D. , Odom J. Vernon , Leys Monique
Published: November 2023

This case report presents a 26-year-old female patient diagnosed with fundus albipunctatus (FAP), a rare form of congenital stationary night blindness. The patient’s clinical history and retinal findings spanning 23 years are consistent with FAP. The patient has profound night blindness, photophobia, and mild color vision changes with preserved best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Small white dots are present throughout the fundus, sparing the central macula. Electroretinograms (ERG) are consistent with congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB) and suggest a lack of rod response. Ophthalmic imaging has remained stable over time. Genetic testing revealed two biallelic missense mutations in the LRAT gene, c.197G>A (p.Gly66Glu) and c.557A>C (p.Lys186Thr). LRAT mutations are known to contribute to other retinal conditions but have not been previously associated with FAP. While there are currently no available treatments for FAP, this report expands our understanding of the genetic landscape of FAP to include LRAT and provides clinical data to support this finding.
Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin in Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Cocito Dario , Peci Erdita , Torrieri Maria Claudia , Clerico Marinella
Published: November 2023

The therapeutic administration of subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg) offers various advantages over intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). This narrative review examines and compares SCIg versus IVIg in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). SCIg is as effective as IVIg but is better tolerated and easier to administer, as intravenous access is not required. Furthermore, SCIg administration is more convenient and cost-effective than IVIg, enabling flexible treatment scheduling at home and improving patients’ overall quality of life. The availability of highly concentrated immunoglobulin G (IgG) subcutaneous solutions, such as IgPro20, a 20% IgG solution stabilized with L-proline, allows for the administration of larger volumes in a single session, while the parallel development of new technological devices enables the delivery of higher doses over a shorter time. Based on the results of the PATH study, SCIg has become a well-established therapy in CIDP. In addition to discussing the advantages of SCIg, this review summarizes the evolution of SCIg by discussing all the relevant clinical studies which have considered its use in the treatment of CIDP.
Resorbable GBR Scaffolds in Oral and Maxillofacial Tissue Engineering: Design, Fabrication, and Applications
Authors: Alavi Seyed Ebrahim , Gholami Max , Shahmabadi Hasan Ebrahimi , Reher Peter
Published: November 2023

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is a promising technique in bone tissue engineering that aims to replace lost or injured bone using resorbable scaffolds. The promotion of osteoblast adhesion, migration, and proliferation is greatly aided by GBR materials, and surface changes are critical in imitating the natural bone structure to improve cellular responses. Moreover, the interactions between bioresponsive scaffolds, growth factors (GFs), immune cells, and stromal progenitor cells are essential in promoting bone regeneration. This literature review comprehensively discusses various aspects of resorbable scaffolds in bone tissue engineering, encompassing scaffold design, materials, fabrication techniques, and advanced manufacturing methods, including three-dimensional printing. In addition, this review explores surface modifications to replicate native bone structures and their impact on cellular responses. Moreover, the mechanisms of bone regeneration are described, providing information on how immune cells, GFs, and bioresponsive scaffolds orchestrate tissue healing. Practical applications in clinical settings are presented to underscore the importance of these principles in promoting tissue integration, healing, and regeneration. Furthermore, this literature review delves into emerging areas of metamaterials and artificial intelligence applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. These interdisciplinary approaches hold immense promise for furthering bone tissue engineering and improving therapeutic outcomes, leading to enhanced patient well-being. The potential of combining material science, advanced manufacturing, and cellular biology is showcased as a pathway to advance bone tissue engineering, addressing a variety of clinical needs and challenges. By providing this comprehensive narrative, a detailed, up-to-date account of resorbable scaffolds’ role in bone tissue engineering and their transformative potential is offered.
Ischemic Stroke in the Course of COVID-19 in a 16-Year-Old Boy
Authors: Syzdoł Bartłomiej , Rzewuska Anna Maria , Sielwanowska Wiktoria , Żybowska Monika , Wilczek Natalia Anna , Woźniak Magdalena Maria
Published: November 2023

The SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 disease is still evolving and, despite the end of the acute phase of the pandemic, still poses a risk to public health. One of the very rare complications, occurring in less than 1% of children, is multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MISC). Due to the risk of thromboembolic complications as well as cardiac problems, MISC carries a number of life-threatening complications. We report a case of a 16-year-old boy who was hospitalized due to general weakness, fever, conjunctivitis, vomiting and diarrhoea. In view of the mother’s positive result of the SARS-CoV-2 test, the teenager underwent numerous laboratory tests. Taking into account the critical condition of the patient, anticoagulant and antipyretic treatment, steroids and IVIG were added. During hospitalisation, alarming symptoms occurred, including dysarthria, drooping corner of the mouth and muscle weakness on the right side. The magnetic resonance imaging showed changes characteristic of ischemic stroke. Further studies are needed to assess possible thrombotic complications in children after SARS-CoV-2 infection, and specialists should be more vigilant in paediatric patients presenting with such symptoms.
Kidney Transplant Recipients Show Limited Lung Diffusion Capacity but Similar Hydrogen Peroxide Exhalation as Healthy Matched Volunteers: A Pilot Study
Authors: Nowak Piotr Jan , Sokołowski Łukasz , Meissner Paweł , Pawłowicz-Szlarska Ewa , Sarniak Agata , Włodarczyk Anna , Wlazeł Rafał Nikodem , Prymont-Przymińska Anna , Nowak Dariusz , Nowicki Michał
Published: November 2023

Patients with end-stage chronic kidney disease show higher systemic oxidative stress and exhale more hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) than healthy controls. Kidney transplantation reduces oxidative stress and H2O2 production by blood polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) may be predisposed to an impairment of lung diffusing capacity due to chronic inflammation. Lung function and H2O2 concentration in the exhaled breath condensate (EBC) were compared in 20 KTRs with stable allograft function to 20 healthy matched controls. Serum interleukin eight (IL-8) and C-reactive protein (CRP), blood cell counts, and spirometry parameters did not differ between groups. However, KTRs showed lower total lung diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, corrected for hemoglobin concentration (TLCOc), in comparison to healthy controls (92.1 ± 11.5% vs. 102.3 ± 11.9% of predicted, p = 0.009), but similar EBC H2O2 concentration (1.63 ± 0.52 vs. 1.77 ± 0.50 µmol/L, p = 0.30). The modality of pre-transplant renal replacement therapy had no effect on TLCOc and EBC H2O2. TLCOc did not correlate with time after transplantation. In this study, TLCOc was less reduced in KTRs in comparison to previous reports. We suggest this fact and the non-elevated H2O2 exhalation exhibited by KTRs, may result perhaps from the evolution of the immunosuppressive therapy.
Early Ear, Nose and Throat Manifestations in Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Poliangioitis: Results from Our Cohort Group and Literature Review
Authors: D’Onofrio Mario , La Prova Daniele , Galdiero Maria Rosaria , Cantone Elena , Tremante Eugenio , Mascolo Massimo , Barbieri Vittoria , Di Nola Claudio , Spadaro Giuseppe , de Paulis Amato , Detoraki Aikaterini
Published: November 2023

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare, systemic necrotizing vasculitis affecting small-to-medium-sized vessels. EGPA’s clinical manifestations are heterogeneous, affecting different organs and systems, and the upper respiratory tract can be affected by ear, nose and throat (ENT) involvement. The aim of our study was to assess type manifestations at the time of diagnosis in a cohort of EGPA patients and correlate findings with baseline variables (sex, age, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies—ANCA-status) and literature reports. The main ENT manifestations in our patients at the time of diagnosis were: chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) (52%), turbinate hypertrophy (48%), nasal swelling (40%), rhinorrhea (40%), chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP) (32%), nasal bone deformities (32%), nasal crusts (20%), nasal mucosal ulcers (12%), corditis (12%), hoarseness/dysphonia (12%), hearing loss (12%), mucoceles (4%) and eosinophilic rhinitis (4%). No correlations were found between sex, age, ANCA status and ENT clinical manifestations. A polymorphic ENT involvement is often observed in the early stages of EGPA. The presence of nasal, sinus, ear and/or laryngeal manifestations in patients with asthma and hypereosinophilia, independently of sex, age or ANCA status, should raise an alert for further investigation and differential diagnosis for EGPA. ENT specialists should be aware of their leading position in this diagnostic race.
Memory Impairments and Wellbeing in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rodrigues Pedro , Bártolo Ana , Albuquerque Pedro
Published: November 2023

Breast cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers among women. Its effects on the cognitive and wellbeing domains have been widely reported in the literature, although with inconsistent results. The central goal of this review was to identify, in women with breast cancer, the main memory impairments, as measured by objective and subjective tools and their relationship with wellbeing outcomes. The systematic literature search was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, and ProQuest databases. The selected studies included 9 longitudinal and 10 cross-sectional studies. Although some studies included participants undergoing multimodal cancer therapies, most focused on chemotherapy’s effects (57.89%; n = 11). The pattern of results was mixed. However, studies suggested more consistently working memory deficits in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. In addition, some associations have been identified between objective memory outcomes (verbal memory) and wellbeing indicators, particularly depression and anxiety. The inconsistencies in the results could be justified by the heterogeneity of the research designs, objective and subjective measures, and sample characteristics. This review confirms that more empirical evidence is needed to understand memory impairments in women with breast cancer. An effort to increase the homogeneity of study methods should be made in future studies.
Postoperative Complications Associated with Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Combinations Used Status-Post Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Nakata Haley , Shelby Tara , Wang Jennifer C. , Bouz Gabriel J. , Mayfield Cory K. , Oakes Daniel A. , Lieberman Jay R. , Christ Alexander B. , Heckmann Nathanael D.
Published: November 2023

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used in multimodal pain control following total joint arthroplasty (TJA). However, few studies have assessed the complications associated with the combinations of NSAIDs in this population despite the known risks associated with this class of medications. The Premier Healthcare Database was queried to identify adults who underwent primary total hip or knee arthroplasty from 2005–2014. The following most common inpatient combinations of NSAIDs were chosen for analysis: aspirin + celecoxib (A + C), toradol + aspirin (T + A), toradol + ibuprofen (T + I), celecoxib + ibuprofen (C + I), ibuprofen + aspirin (I + A), and toradol + celecoxib (T + C). Primary outcomes included acute kidney injury (AKI), gastrointestinal bleed, and stroke. Secondary outcomes included periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to compare differences and address confounds. Overall, 195,833 patients were identified. After controlling for confounds, increased odds of AKI was associated with A + C (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.20, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.09–1.34, p < 0.001) and decreased odds was associated with T + A (aOR 0.76, 95% CI: 0.69–0.83, p < 0.001). Increased odds of stroke was associated with A + C (aOR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.15–2.84, p = 0.011); T + I (aOR 3.48, 95% CI: 1.25–9.73, p = 0.017); and I + A (aOR 4.29, 95% CI: 1.06–17.9, p = 0.046). Increased odds of PJI was associated with C + I (aOR: 10.3, 95% CI: 1.35–78.3, p = 0.024). In the TJA patient population, NSAID pairings should be regarded as distinct entities. Our results suggest that combinations including A + C, T + I, I + A, and C + I should be used cautiously. With this knowledge, providers should consider tailoring NSAID prescriptions appropriately.
Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury and Multiple Sclerosis—An Updated and Simplified Treatment Algorithm
Authors: Magnuson Fredrika , Christensen Peter , Krassioukov Andrei , Rodriguez Gianna , Emmanuel Anton , Kirshblum Steven , Krogh Klaus
Published: November 2023

Neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) is a common condition in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) or multiple sclerosis (MS). It usually entails constipation, difficult evacuation of the rectum, and fecal incontinence (FI); often in combination. It is highly burdensome for affected patients and is correlated with poor quality of life. The current treatment algorithm, or treatment pyramid, does not completely correspond to actual clinical practice, and the known and classical pyramid contains both treatments still in their experimental stage as well as several treatments which are not available at all treatment centers. Thus, an updated treatment algorithm is called upon, and the authors of this paper therefore propose a simplified version of the treatment pyramid, aiming to guide clinicians in treating NBD.
Assessing the Efficacy of the Modified SEGA Frailty (mSEGA) Screening Tool in Predicting 12-Month Morbidity and Mortality among Elderly Emergency Department Visitors
Authors: Zulfiqar Abrar-Ahmad , Fresne Mathieu , Andres Emmanuel
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Rapid identification of frail elderly individuals upon admission to the emergency department is pivotal for enhancing their care and alleviating emergency room congestion. Objective: This pilot study aims to explore the relationship between morbidity, mortality, and frailty, as assessed by the mSEGA scale, among individuals aged 65 years or older in the emergency department. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single center. The pilot study included patients aged 65 and above who were admitted to Chaumont Hospital’s emergency unit (Haute-Marne department) for medical and/or surgical reasons between 1 July 2017 and 31 January 2018. Data encompassed socio-demographic characteristics, medical profiles, and emergency department visit details. Outcomes for patients one year post-admission were obtained through consultation with their respective general practitioners. Results: A total of 255 subjects participated, with a mean age of 82.1 ± 8.2 years. Primary admission reasons were falls (n = 51, 20.0%), digestive issues (excluding hemorrhage) (n = 30, 11.8%), and “other” causes (n = 61, 23.9%). Among participants, 78 (30.6%) scored ≤8 on the mSEGA frailty scale, 49 (19.2%) scored 9 to 11, and 125 (50.2%) scored ≥12. Concerning post-emergency department outcomes, 152 patients (59.6%) were hospitalized, while 103 (40.4%) were discharged. No deaths were reported during the study period, and vital status was known for all subjects at the one-year mark. At that point, 63 out of 255 patients had passed away, with 30 of them being readmitted to the emergency department either before or at the time of their one-year death. The 12-month survival rate analysis based on frailty status revealed a significant difference. Low-frailty patients exhibited a survival rate of 87.2% (95% CI; [77.5–92.9]), whereas frail/very frail patients had a survival rate of 70.0% (95% CI; [62.7–76.2]). Similarly, the 12-month readmission-free survival rate demonstrated statistically significant disparities. Low-frailty patients had a rate of 76.9% (95% CI; [65.9–84.8]), compared to 51.4% (95% CI; [43.8–58.5]) for very frail patients. Conclusion: Utilizing the mSEGA frailty scale in the Emergency Department could provide crucial prognostic insights, highlighting significant differences in 12-month survival and readmission-free survival rates based on frailty status.
Investigating a Renewable-Resource-Targeting Mobile Aquaculture System Using Route Optimization Based on Optimal Foraging Theory
Authors: Grasberger Jeff , Forbush Dominic
Published: November 2023

Aquaculture systems require careful consideration of location, which determines water conditions, pollution impacts, and hazardous conditions. Mobility may be able to address these factors while also supporting the targeting of renewable energy sources such as wind, wave, and solar power throughout the year. In this paper, a purpose-built mobile aquaculture ship is identified and modeled with a combination of renewable energy harvesting capabilities as a case study with the objective of assessing the potential benefits of targeting high renewable energy potentials to power aquaculture operations. A route optimization algorithm is created and tuned to simulate the mobility of the aquaculture platform and cost-basis comparisons are made to a stationary system. The small spatial variability in renewable energy potential when combining multiple resources significantly limits the benefits of a mobile, renewable-targeting aquaculture system. On the other hand, the consistent energy harvest from a blend of renewable energy types (13 kW installed wind capacity, 661 m2 installed solar, and 1 m characteristic width wave-energy converter) suggests that the potential benefits of a mobile platform for offshore aquaculture (mitigation of environmental and social concerns, any potential positive impact on yields, hazard avoidance, etc.) can likely be pursued without significant increases in energy harvester costs.
The Response of Paracoccidioides lutzii to the Interaction with Human Neutrophils
Authors: Silva Lana O’Hara Souza , Baeza Lilian Cristiane , Pigosso Laurine Lacerda , Silva Kleber Santiago Freitas e , Pereira Maristela , de Carvalho Júnior Marcos Antonio Batista , de Almeida Soares Célia Maria
Published: November 2023

The fungal pathogen Paracoccidioides lutzii causes systemic mycosis Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), which presents a broad distribution in Latin America. Upon infection, the fungus undergoes a morphological transition to yeast cells and provokes an inflammatory granulomatous reaction with a high number of neutrophils in the lungs. In this work, we employed proteomic analysis to investigate the in vitro response of the fungus to the interaction with human neutrophils. Proteomic profiling of P. lutzii yeast cells harvested at 2 and 4 h post interaction with human polymorphonuclear cells allowed the identification of 505 proteins differentially accumulated. The data indicated that P. lutzii yeast cells underwent a shift in metabolism from glycolysis to Beta oxidation, increasing enzymes of the glyoxylate cycle and upregulating enzymes related to the detoxification of oxidative and heat shock stress. To our knowledge, this is the first study employing proteomic analysis in the investigation of the response of a member of the Paracoccidioides genus to the interaction with neutrophils.
Selective Arterial Embolization of Ruptured Hepatocellular Carcinoma with N-Butyl Cyanoacrylate and Lipiodol: Safety, Efficacy, and Short-Term Outcomes
Authors: Cali Jory , Chevallier Olivier , Guillen Kévin , Latournerie Marianne , Mazit Amin , Aho-Glélé Ludwig Serge , Loffroy Romaric
Published: November 2023

The rupture of hepatocellular carcinoma (rHCC) is uncommon but causes sudden life-threatening bleeding. Selective transarterial embolization (STAE) is an effective bleeding-control option. The optimal embolic agent is unknown, and data on the use of cyanoacrylate glue are lacking. The objective of this study was to report the outcomes of cyanoacrylate-lipiodol embolization for rHCC. We retrospectively reviewed the files of the 16 patients (14 males; mean age, 72 years) who underwent emergency cyanoacrylate-lipiodol STAE at a single center in 2012–2023 for spontaneous rHCC. All 16 patients had subcapsular HCC and abundant hemoperitoneum. The technical success rate was 94% (15/16). Day 30 mortality was 19%; the three patients who died had severe hemodynamic instability at admission; one death was due to rebleeding. Liver enzyme levels returned to baseline by day 30. No rebleeding was recorded during the median follow-up of 454 days in the 10 patients who were alive with available data after day 30. Larger prospective studies with the collection of longer-term outcomes are needed to assess our results supporting the safety and effectiveness of cyanoacrylate-lipiodol STAE for rHCC. Randomized trials comparing this mixture to other embolic agents should be performed.
The Impact of Antibiotics and Steroids on the Nasal Microbiome in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Systematic Review According to PICO Criteria
Authors: Loperfido Antonella , Cavaliere Carlo , Begvarfaj Elona , Ciofalo Andrea , D’Erme Giovanni , De Vincentiis Marco , Greco Antonio , Millarelli Stefano , Bellocchi Gianluca , Masieri Simonetta
Published: November 2023

Background: The nasal microbiome represents the main environmental factor of the inflammatory process in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Antibiotics and steroids constitute the mainstay of CRS therapies. However, their impact on microbial communities needs to be better understood. This systematic review summarizes the evidence about antibiotics’ and steroids’ impact on the nasal microbiota in patients with CRS. Methods: The search strategy was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews. The authors searched all papers in the three major medical databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library) using the PICO tool (population, intervention, comparison, and outcomes). The search was carried out using a combination of the key terms “Microbiota” or “Microbiome” and “Chronic Rhinosinusitis”. Results: Overall, 402 papers were identified, and after duplicate removal (127 papers), excluding papers off-topic (154) and for other structural reasons (110), papers were assessed for eligibility; finally, only 11 papers were included and summarized in the present systematic review. Some authors used only steroids, other researchers used only antibiotics, and others used both antibiotics and steroids. With regard to the use of steroids as exclusive medical treatment, topical mometasone and budesonide were investigated. With regard to the use of antibiotics as exclusive medical treatments, clarithromycin, doxycycline, roxithromycin, and amoxicillin clavulanate were investigated. Regarding the use of both antibiotics and steroids, two associations were investigated: systemic prednisone combined with amoxicillin clavulanate and topical budesonide combined with azithromycin. Conclusions: The impact that therapies can have on the nasal microbiome of CRS patients is very varied. Further studies are needed to understand the role of the nasal microbiome, prevent CRS, and improve therapeutic tools for personalized medicine tailored to the individual patient.
Bankruptcy Risk in Discounted Cash Flow Equity Valuation
Authors: Skogsvik Kenth , Skogsvik Stina , Andersson Henrik
Published: November 2023

We investigate the importance of bankruptcy risk in discounted cash flow (DCF) equity valuation. Our analyses first show how bankruptcy risk is incorporated in DCF valuation, where investment risk is captured by cash flow certainty equivalents. Within this general setting, we find that bankruptcy risk can be captured by discounting factors incorporating period-specific bankruptcy probabilities, allowing the numerators in a DCF valuation model to follow a binary random walk. Elaborating a model of this kind, we assess the value of the equity holders’ limited liability right (the equity holders’ right to hand over the firm to its creditors if bankruptcy occurs). Two valuation models commonly used in academic research and professional practice—the Dividend Discount Model (DDM) and the Residual Income Valuation (RIV) model—are addressed specifically. Our analyses show that bankruptcy probabilities are important for the estimation of the value drivers in both models. Even if bankruptcy probabilities are as low as 0.02, equity values might be severely exaggerated if bankruptcy risk is ignored in DDM or RIV. In particular, this holds for firms expected to have high future growth (conditioned on firm survival). For the RIV model to properly capture bankruptcy risk, we identify “bankruptcy event accounting principles” and an additional term that must be included in the model. We also show that bankruptcy risk under certain conditions can be handled through a specific calibration of the discounting rate/-s in all DCF models, allowing the value drivers—i.e., future dividends or residual income—to be forecasted conditioned on firm survival.
Distribution of Soil Organic Carbon Density Fractions in Aggregates as Influenced by Salts and Microbial Community
Authors: Yang Wei , Song Xingsheng , He Yangbo , Chen Bige , Zhou Ying , Chen Jiazhou
Published: November 2023

Understanding soil organic carbon (SOC) at the aggregate level is crucial for soil health in secondary-salinized greenhouse development. Nevertheless, the specific patterns and contributions of ion content and microbial communities on SOC density fractions at the aggregate level remain unclear in secondary-salinized soil. We investigated variations in salts [electrical conductivity (EC) and ions] and microbial communities across various aggregate classes in both a 16-year-use greenhouse and open-field soils. We also examined SOC density fractions, including the light fraction (LF), the heavy fraction of particulate organic matter (POM), and mineral-associated organic matter (MOM) across different aggregates. The findings revealed that a lower Ca2+/K+ along with elevated EC levels (average 2.49 mS cm−1) reduced the macroaggregate percentage in greenhouse compared to open-field conditions, with a lower EC of 0.58 mS cm−1. Bacterial diversity and community composition exhibited no variation across different aggregate sizes at both sites. Conversely, fungal diversity and relative abundance (primarily dominated by Ascomycota of 78.50%) substantially increased in microaggregates (<0.25 mm) compared to macroaggregates (>0.25 mm). Macroaggregates exhibited a higher proportion of LF and MOM (3.3–18.2%, 24.9–34.5%, and 2.9–4.0% for LF, MOM, and POM, respectively) than microaggregates. Correlation and redundancy analyses revealed that fungal diversity, particularly the relative abundance of Ascomycota in aggregates < 0.25 mm, significantly and positively influenced (p < 0.05) the proportion of MOM carbon in terms of the overall SOC (J-type). This study provides valuable insights into the distribution patterns of SOC within the secondary salt-affected soils.
Spatiotemporal Differentiation and Coupling Coordination Relationship of the Production–Living–Ecological Function at County Scale: A Case Study of Jiangsu Province
Authors: Gong Zhongshun , Yuan Ye , Qie Lu , Huang Sihua , Xie Xuefeng , Zhong Rui , Pu Lijie
Published: November 2023

Land is multifunctional and includes production, living, and ecological functions (PLEF). Each aspect of PLEF is critical to the stability of human and natural ecosystems, and the balanced coordination of the three is an important guarantee of sustainable development. The study of the coupling and coordinated relationship of the three functions is of great significance to comprehensively optimizing the allocation of territorial space and promoting the coordinated and sustainable development of the national territory. Taking Jiangsu as a case study, based on the perspective of PLEF, this research constructed a PLEF evaluation index system adapted to rapidly urbanizing areas at the county scale and adopted the modified coupling coordination degree model (CCDM) for in-depth analyses of their coupling and coordinated relationships. The results of this study showed that the spatial distribution of PLEF had obvious heterogeneity, with living function (L) and ecological function (E) presenting as high in the south and low in the north, and production function (P) presenting as high in the middle and low in the north and south of Jiangsu; from 2010 to 2020, the production function steadily increased, the living function showed obvious signs of improvement, while the ecological function remained basically stable. The coupling degree and coupling coordination degree formed a spatial pattern with the intersection belt of North and Central Jiangsu and Central and South Jiangsu as the high-value area; from 2010 to 2020, both the coupling degree and the coupling coordination degree showed an upward trend. In the future, differentiated development strategies should be implemented according to the law of coupling and coordinated evolution and different regional characteristics. This study will provide a more appropriate reference for promoting the coordinated development of PLEF in rapidly urbanizing areas and formulating county policy planning.
“We Make It Work Because We Must”: Narrating the Creation of an Urban Indigenous Food Bank in London, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Richmond Chantelle , Dokis Brian
Published: November 2023

This research draws from a community-engaged methodology and qualitative interviews to narrate the creation and daily operations of an Indigenous food bank in London, Ontario, Canada. In-depth interviews (n = 10) with program leaders, volunteers, and recipients detailed the day-to-day operations, including where and how foods were collected and distributed, and a preliminary analysis of the meanings and challenges of the food bank. The key strengths of the food bank are its focus on cultural safety, provision of traditional foods, and its community-led approach. The limitations of the food bank relate to the structure of the workload and sustainability of program funding. Community-led research with Indigenous non-profit organizations, such as that presented here, offer approaches that are critically important for creating culturally relevant and inclusive data that can both explain and address Indigenous health inequities, and provide the evidence needed to advocate for change.
Production–Living–Ecological Spatial Function Identification and Pattern Analysis Based on Multi-Source Geographic Data and Machine Learning
Authors: Bu Ziqiang , Fu Jingying , Jiang Dong , Lin Gang
Published: November 2023

Land use cannot be simply understood as land cover. The same land may carry different functions, such as production, living, and ecological applications; the dominant function of land will affect and restrict other uses. Disorderly urbanization and industrialization have led to an intensification of conflicts among the production, living, and ecological functions of land, which is a major constraint on regional sustainable development. This paper took the perspective of land-use function and used multi-source data such as Sentinel remote-sensing imagery, VIIRS night-time light data, and POIs to classify land-use functions on a large scale in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) urban agglomeration. The specific research process was as follows. Firstly, the BTH region was multi-scale-segmented based on Sentinel remote-sensing data. Then, the spectral, texture, shape, and socio-economic features of each small area after segmentation were extracted. Moreover, a PLES land-use classification system oriented towards land-use function was established, and a series of representative samples were selected. Subsequently, a random forest model was trained using these samples; then, the trained model was used for the large-scale analysis of land use in the entire BTH region. Finally, the spatial distribution patterns and temporal–spatial evolution characteristics of PLES in the BTH region from 2016 to 2021 were analyzed from the macro level to the micro level.
Comparative Study on Object-Oriented Identification Methods of Plastic Greenhouses Based on Landsat Operational Land Imager
Authors: Yi Yang , Shi Mingchang , Gao Mengjie , Zhang Guimin , Xing Luqi , Zhang Chen , Xie Jianwu
Published: November 2023

The rapid and precise acquisition of the agricultural plastic greenhouse (PG) spatial distribution is essential in understanding PG usage and degradation, ensuring agricultural production, and protecting the ecological environment and human health. It is of great practical significance to realize the effective utilization of remote sensing images in the agricultural field and improve the extraction accuracy of PG remote sensing data. In this study, Landsat operational land imager (OLI) remote sensing images were used as data sources, and Shandong Province, which has the largest PG distribution in China, was selected as the study area. PGs in the study area were identified by means of contour recognition, feature set construction of the spatial structure, and machine learning. The results were as follows. (1) Through an optimal segmentation parameter approach, it was determined that the optimal segmentation scale for size, shape, and compactness should be set at 20, 0.8, and 0.5, respectively, which significantly improved PG contour recognition. (2) Among the 72 feature variables for PG spatial recognition, the number of features and classification accuracy showed a trend of first gradually increasing and then decreasing. Among them, fifteen feature variables, including the mean of bands 2 and 5; six index features (NDWI, GNDVI, SWIR1_NIR, NDVI, and PMLI); two shape features, the density and shape index; and two texture features, the contrast and standard deviation, played an important role. (3) According to the recall rate, accuracy rate, and F-value of three machine learning methods, random forest (RDF), CART decision tree (CART), and support vector machine (SVM), SVM had the best classification effect. The classification method described in this paper can accurately extract continuous plastic greenhouses through remote sensing images and provide a reference for the application of facility agriculture and non-point-source pollution control.
Caterpillar Responses to Gustatory Stimuli in Potato Tuber Moths: Electrophysiological and Behavioral Insights
Authors: Mu Ni , Tang Jia-Cai , Zhao Jing , Fu Qi-Chun , Ma Yan-Fen , Tang Rui , Dong Wen-Xia
Published: November 2023

This research investigates how fourth-instar larvae of the potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella, respond to plant secondary metabolites (sucrose, glucose, nicotine, and tannic acid) both in terms of gustatory electrophysiology and feeding behavior. The objective is to establish a theoretical foundation for employing plant-derived compounds in potato tuber moth control. We employed single-sensillum recording techniques and dual-choice leaf disk assays to assess the gustatory electrophysiological responses and feeding preferences of these larvae towards the mentioned compounds. Sensory neurons responsive to sucrose, glucose, nicotine, and tannic acid were identified in the larvae’s medial and lateral sensilla styloconica. Neuronal activity was influenced by stimulus type and concentration. Notably, the two types of sensilla styloconica displayed distinct response patterns for sucrose and glucose while they had similar firing patterns towards nicotine and tannic acid. Sucrose and glucose significantly promoted larval feeding, while nicotine and tannic acid had significant inhibitory effects. These findings demonstrate that the medial and lateral sensilla styloconica house sensory neurons sensitive to both feeding stimulants and inhibitors, albeit with differing response profiles and sensitivities. This study suggests that sucrose and glucose are promising candidates for feeding stimulants, while nicotine and tannic acid show potential as effective feeding inhibitors of P. operculella larvae.
Static Performance Measurements and Model Predictions of Gas Foil Thrust Bearing with Curved Incline Geometry
Authors: Hwang Sung Ho , Mehdi Syed Muntazir , Kim Tae Ho
Published: November 2023

Gas foil thrust bearings (GFTBs) have been successfully used to support the axial load of oil-free microturbomachinery with low drag friction due to the low viscosity of gas or air used as a bearing lubricant. However, the widespread use of GFTBs in various high-power turbomachinery still needs reliable test data and an accurate predictive model. This research measures the height profile of a test GFTB to determine its actual incline geometry and estimate the drag torque of the GFTB. The measured GFTB height profile demonstrates that the incline geometry is closer to a quadratic curve than a line, which has been conventionally used to model GFTBs mathematically. The newly developed GFTB test rig is used to measure the lift-off speed, drag torque, and maximum load capacity of the test GFTB. A series of rotor speed-up tests estimate that the lift-off speeds of the GFTB increase with the increase in preloads. The maximum load capacity is determined by increasing the static load on the GFTB until a sudden sharp peak in the drag torque appears. The new GFTB model using quadratic incline geometry is in suitable agreement with the measured height profile of the GFTB incline and measured drag torque during the load capacity test. In addition, a comparison of the predicted GFTB performances reveals that the quadratic incline geometry model predicts a higher load capacity than the linear model.
An Investigation into the Wear Behavior of Martensitically Transformed Nitrided Layers
Authors: Hoja Stefanie , Birjandi Behrad Komeili , Hasselbruch Henning , Epp Jérémy
Published: November 2023

To improve the service behavior of gears, surface heat treatments such as nitriding or induction hardening can be performed. Since these processes are limited in their achievable maximum hardness or depth of hardness, a combination treatment could allow benefits from the advantages of both processes. The aim of this work was to show the correlation between the microstructure resulting from combination treatment and the performance of the surface layer using the example of wear behavior. The investigations focused on the impact of different nitrided states, in the combination treatment of the material EN31CrMoV9, on wear resistance. The wear was evaluated after running the two-disc test gravimetrically and optically. Nitrided-only specimens showed better wear resistance compared to those subjected to induction hardening after nitriding. Substantial differences in weight loss indicate that induction hardening worsens the wear behavior. The variants with the compound layer removed in the nitride-only state as well as in the induction hardened state showed a better wear behavior compared to the respective conditions with a compound layer. This was attributed to the lower surface roughness and the higher hardness due to less retained austenite after combination treatment.
A Study on Processing Defects and Parameter Optimization in Abrasive Suspension Jet Cutting of Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Plastics
Authors: Li Liucan , Xiao Nanzhe , Guo Chuwen , Wang Fengchao
Published: November 2023

Abrasive suspension jet (ASJ), an accurate cold-cutting technology, can address traditional processing issues relating to carbon-fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRPs) like tool wear, interlayer delamination, large heat-affected zone, and low surface roughness. This study employed the use of an ASJ to cut CFRPs and an ultra-depth optical microscope to scan the cut surface to analyze interlayer delamination, surface roughness, kerf taper, and shoulder damage. Regression analysis was conducted to establish a prediction model for cutting quality based on surface roughness, kerf taper, and shoulder damage. Various types of CFRP cutting quality were analyzed using jet parameters. It was found that the use of ASJ to process CFRP results in the following defects: The range of surface roughness variation is from 0.112 μm to 0.144 μm. Surface roughness is most influenced by stand-off distance, followed by traverse speed and jet pressure. The range of kerf taper variation is from 4.737° to 10.1°. Kerf taper is most influenced by stand-off distance, followed by jet pressure and traverse speed. The range of shoulder damage variation is from 3.384 μm2 to 10 μm2. Shoulder damage is most influenced by jet pressure, followed by traverse speed and stand-off distance. A prediction model for cutting quality was developed based on surface roughness, kerf taper, and shoulder damage, providing data support for ASJ cutting of CFRPs. The optimal parameter combination is a stand-off distance of 1 mm, a jet pressure of 30 MPa, and a traverse speed of 30 mm/min.
Mechanical Performance of Adhesive Connections in Structural Applications
Authors: Lamberti Marco , Maurel-Pantel Aurélien , Lebon Frédéric
Published: November 2023

Adhesive bonding is an excellent candidate for realising connections for secondary structures in structural applications such as offshore wind turbines and installations, avoiding the risk and associated welding problems. The strength of the adhesive layer is an important parameter to consider in the design process it being lower than the strength capacity of the bonding material. The presence of defects in the adhesive materials undoubtedly influences the mechanical behaviour of bonded composite structures. More specifically, the reduction in strength is more pronounced as the presence of defects (voids) increases. For this reason, a correct evaluation of the presence of defects, which can be translated into damage parameters, has become essential in predicting the actual behaviour of the bonded joints under different external loading conditions. In this paper, an extensive experimental programme has been carried out on adhesively bonded connections subjected to Mode I and Mode II loading conditions in order to characterise the mechanical properties of a commercial epoxy resin and to define the damage parameters. The initial damage parameters of the adhesive layer have been identified according to the Kachanov–Sevostianov material definition, which is able to take into account the presence of diffuse initial cracking.
The Alphabet of Nanostructured Polypyrrole
Authors: Golba Sylwia , Loskot Jan
Published: November 2023

This review is devoted to polypyrrole and its morphology, which governs the electroactivity of the material. The macroscopic properties of the material are strictly relevant to microscopic ordering observed at the local level. During the synthesis, various (nano)morphologies can be produced. The formation of the ordered structure is dictated by the ability of the local forces and effects to induce restraints that help shape the structure. This review covers the aspects of morphology and roughness and their impact on the final properties of the modified electrode activity in selected applications.
Effect of Process Parameters on Microstructure and Properties of Laser Cladding Ni60+30%WC Coating on Q235 Steel
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Shi Wenqing , Cheng Cai , Liang Feilong , Li Kaiyue
Published: November 2023

A Ni60+30%WC composite coating was prepared on the surface of Q235 steel by utilizing a high cooling rate, small thermal deformation of the substrate material, and the good metallurgical bonding characteristics of laser cladding technology. This paper focuses on the study of the composite coatings prepared under different process parameters in order to select the optimal process parameters and provide theoretical guidance for future practical applications. The macroscopic morphology and microstructure of t he composite coatings were investigated with the help of an optical microscope (OM) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The elemental distribution of the composite coatings was examined using an X-ray diffractometer. The microhardness and wear resistance of the composite coatings were tested using a microhardness tester, a friction tester, and a three-dimensional (3D) profilometer. The results of all the samples showed that the Ni60+30%WC composite coatings prepared at a laser power of 1600 W and a scanning speed of 10 mm/s were well formed, with a dense microstructure, and the microhardness is more than four times higher than the base material, the wear amount is less than 50% of the base material, and the wear resistance has been significantly improved. Therefore, the experimental results for the laser power of 1600 W and scanning speed of 10 mm/s are the optimal process parameters for the preparation of Ni60+30%WC.
Influence of the Change of Phase Composition of (1 − x)ZrO2–xAl2O3 Ceramics on the Resistance to Hydrogen Embrittlement
Authors: Kenzhina Inesh E. , Kozlovskiy Artem L. , Begentayev Meiram , Tolenova Aktolkyn , Askerbekov Saulet
Published: November 2023

The article describes the influence of the change in the phase composition of ceramics on the stability of the crystal structure and retention of thermo-physical parameters during hydrogenation of the surface layer in the proton irradiation process. The selection of irradiation conditions allows modeling the degradation processes of ceramics associated with gas swelling during hydrogenation, as well as revealing the patterns of the effect of phase composition on embrittlement, de-strengthening, and structural degradation resistance. In the course of the conducted studies, dose-dependencies of irradiation-induced structural changes and consecutive accumulation of radiation-induced damage in ceramics as a result of hydrogenation of the damaged near-surface layer were established. It was found that the maximum structural changes are observed at doses above 1015 protons/cm2. Dependencies of the change in the degree of structural order as a function of the dose of accumulated damage and the concentration of accumulated protons were obtained. It was established that the variation of the ceramics phase composition due to the formation of solid solutions of ZrO2/Al2O3 and ZrO2/Al2O3/AlZr3 type leads to an enhancement of resistance to swelling by 3–5 times in comparison with monoclinic ZrO2 ceramics. The general analysis of the variation of strength and thermo-physical parameters of ceramics as a function of irradiation fluence for ceramics with different phase compositions showed a direct dependence of the decrease in hardness, resistance to cracking, and thermal conductivity on the concentration of deformation structural distortions caused by irradiation.