bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Localization of a BLE Device Based on Single-Device RSSI and DOA Measurements
Authors: Kandula Harsha , Chidurala Veena , Cao Yuan , Li Xinrong
Published: May 2024

Indoor location services often use Bluetooth low energy (BLE) devices for their low energy consumption and easy implementation. Applications like device monitoring, ranging, and asset tracking utilize the received signal strength (RSS) of the BLE signal to estimate the proximity of a device from the receiver. However, in multipath environments, RSS-based solutions may not provide an accurate estimation. In such environments, receivers with antenna arrays are used to calculate the difference in time of flight (ToF) and therefore calculate the direction of arrival (DoA) of the Bluetooth signal. Other techniques like triangulation have also been used, such as having multiple transmitters or receivers as a network of sensors. To find a lost item, devices like Tile© use an onboard beeper to notify users of their presence. In this paper, we present a system that uses a single-measurement device and describe the method of measurement to estimate the location of a BLE device using RSS. A BLE device is configured as an Eddystone beacon for periodic transmission of advertising packets with RSS information. We developed a smartphone application to read RSS information from the beacon, designed an algorithm to estimate the DoA, and used the phone’s internal sensors to evaluate the DoA with respect to true north. The proposed measurement method allows for asset tracking by iterative measurements that provide the direction of the beacon and take the user closer at every step. The receiver application is easily deployable on a smartphone, and the algorithm provides direction of the beacon within a 30° range, as suggested by the provided results.
Outcome after Intracerebral Haemorrhage and Decompressive Craniectomy in Older Adults
Authors: Kapapa Thomas , Jesuthasan Stefanie , Schiller Frederike , Schiller Franziska , Oehmichen Marcel , Woischneck Dieter , Mayer Benjamin , Pala Andrej
Published: May 2024

Objective: There is a relationship between the incidence of spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) and age. The incidence increases with age. This study aims to facilitate the decision-making process in the treatment of ICH. It therefore investigated the outcome after ICH and decompressive craniectomy (DC) in older adults (>65 years of age). Methods: Retrospective, multicentre, descriptive observational study including only consecutive patients who received DC as the consequence of ICH. Additive evacuation of ICH was performed after the individual decision of the neurosurgeon. Besides demographic data, clinical outcomes both at discharge and 12 months after surgery were evaluated according to the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS). Patients were divided into age groups of ≤65 and >65 years and cohorts with favourable outcome (GOS IV–V) and unfavourable outcome (GOS I to III). Results: 56 patients were treated. Mean age was 53.3 (SD: 16.13) years. There were 41 (73.2%) patients aged ≤65 years and 15 (26.8%) patients aged >65 years. During hospital stay, 10 (24.4%) patients in the group of younger (≤65 years) and 5 (33.3%) in the group of older patients (>65 years) died. Mean time between ictus and surgery was 44.4 (SD: 70.79) hours for younger and 27.9 (SD: 41.71) hours for older patients. A disturbance of the pupillary function on admission occurred in 21 (51.2%) younger and 2 (13.3%) older patients (p = 0.014). Mean arterial pressure was 99.9 (SD: 17.00) mmHg for younger and 112.9 (21.80) mmHg in older patients. After 12 months, there was no significant difference in outcome between younger patients (≤65 years) and older patients (>65 years) after ICH and DC (p = 0.243). Nevertheless, in the group of younger patients (≤65 years), 9% had a very good and 15% had a good outcome. There was no good recovery in the group of older patients (>65 years). Conclusion: Patients >65 years of age treated with microsurgical haematoma evacuation and DC after ICH are likely to have a poor outcome. Furthermore, in the long term, only a few older adults have a good functional outcome with independence in daily life activities.
Seasonality Affects Fluid Intake Behaviors among Young Adults in Hebei, China
Authors: Lin Yongwei , Zhang Na , Zhang Jianfen , Lu Junbo , Liu Shufang , Ma Guansheng
Published: May 2024

Background: Evidence on the association between environmental factors and fluid intake behavior remains limited. The current study aims to explore seasonal variations in fluid intake behaviors among young adults in China. Methods: A prospective cohort of 79 healthy young adults (43 males and 36 females) aged 19–21 in Hebei, China, was assessed for fluid intake behaviors for four seasons. For each assessment, the participants’ anthropometric measurements were collected. Temperature and humidity on survey days were measured. Participants’ total drinking fluid (TDF) was recorded using a self-administrative 7 d, 24 h fluid intake questionnaire. To calculate water from food (WFF), we weighed all foods consumed by participants. Duplicates of consumed food samples were collected to measure the water content via the drying method. Results: The mean total water intake (TWI) was 2761 ± 881, 2551 ± 845, 2210 ± 551, and 1989 ± 579 for spring, summer, fall, and winter, respectively (F(2.37) = 42.29, p < 0.001). The volume and proportion of TWI from TDF and WFF varied across the four seasons. The volume of WFF in spring (1361 ± 281, F(2.61) = 17.21, p < 0.001) and TDF in summer (1218 ± 502, F(2.62) = 9.36, p < 0.001) was among the highest, while participants’ fluid intake behaviors in spring and summer were less distinct than the other pairwise comparisons. A moderate association was found between outdoor temperature and TDF (r = 0.53, p < 0.01). Different general estimating equations suggested that gender, seasonality, outdoor temperature, differences in indoor and outdoor temperature, and mean temperature were independent factors of TDF. An interactive effect was found for gender and temperature, showing that the expected TDF of males may increase more as the temperature climbs. Conclusions: Gender, seasonality, and air temperature could significantly affect fluid intake behaviors, including the amount and type of fluid intake. However, the independent effect of BMI and humidity remains unclear.
The Tryptophan Index Is Associated with Risk of Ischemic Stroke: A Community-Based Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Liu Dong , Hong Yan , Chen Zhenting , Ma Yifan , Xia Shangyu , Gu Shujun , Zuo Hui
Published: May 2024

Background: The relative availability of the essential amino acid tryptophan in the brain, as indicated by the tryptophan index, which is the ratio of tryptophan to its competing amino acids (CAAs) in circulation, has been related to major depression. However, it remains unknown whether tryptophan availability is involved in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke. Aims: We aimed to investigate the relationship between the tryptophan index and the risk of ischemic stroke. Methods: We performed a nested case–control study within a community-based cohort in eastern China over the period 2013 to 2018. The analysis included 321 cases of ischemic stroke and 321 controls matched by sex and date of birth. The plasma levels of tryptophan and CAAs, including tyrosine, valine, phenylalanine, leucine, and isoleucine, were measured by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Conditional logistic regression analyses were employed to determine incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: After adjustment for body mass index, current smoking status, educational attainment, physical activity, family history of stroke, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and estimated glomerular filtration rate, an elevated tryptophan index was significantly associated with a reduced risk of ischemic stroke in a dose–response manner (IRR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.63–0.93, per standard deviation increment). The plasma tryptophan or CAAs were not separately associated with the risk of ischemic stroke. Conclusions: The tryptophan index was inversely associated with the risk of ischemic stroke. Our novel observations suggest that the availability of the essential amino acid tryptophan in the brain is involved in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke.
A Narrative Review on Gut Microbiome Disturbances and Microbial Preparations in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Implications for Long COVID
Authors: Jurek Joanna Michalina , Castro-Marrero Jesus
Published: May 2024

Myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), and long COVID are complex, multisystemic and long-term disabling conditions characterized by debilitating post-exertional malaise and other core symptoms related to immune dysregulation resultant from post-viral infection, including mitochondrial dysfunction, chronic neuroinflammation and gut dysbiosis. The reported associations between altered microbiota composition and cardinal symptoms of ME/CFS and long COVID suggest that the use of microbial preparations, such as probiotics, by restoring the homeostasis of the brain–immune–gut axis, may help in the management of symptoms in both conditions. Therefore, this review aims to investigate the implications of alerted gut microbiome and assess the evidence supporting use of microbial-based preparations, including probiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics alone and/or in combination with other nutraceuticals in the management of fatigue, inflammation and neuropsychiatric and gastrointestinal symptoms among patients with ME/CFS and long COVID.
Multipanel Approach including miRNAs, Inflammatory Markers, and Depressive Symptoms for Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease Diagnosis during 2-Year Nutritional Intervention
Authors: Tobaruela-Resola Ana Luz , Riezu-Boj José I. , Milagro Fermin I. , Mogna-Pelaez Paola , Herrero José I. , Elorz Mariana , Benito-Boillos Alberto , Tur Josep A. , Martínez J. Alfredo , Abete Itziar , Zulet M. Angeles
Published: May 2024

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), with a prevalence of 30% of adults globally, is considered a multifactorial disease. There is a lack of effective non-invasive methods for accurate diagnosis and monitoring. Therefore, this study aimed to explore associations between changes in circulating miRNA levels, inflammatory markers, and depressive symptoms with hepatic variables in MASLD subjects and their combined potential to predict the disease after following a dietary intervention. Biochemical markers, body composition, circulating miRNAs and hepatic and psychological status of 55 subjects with MASLD with obesity and overweight from the FLiO study were evaluated by undergoing a 6-, 12- and 24-month nutritional intervention. The highest accuracy values of combined panels to predict the disease were identified after 24 months. A combination panel that included changes in liver stiffness, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), body mass index (BMI), depressive symptoms, and triglycerides (TG) yielded an AUC of 0.90. Another panel that included changes in hepatic fat content, total cholesterol (TC), miR15b-3p, TG, and depressive symptoms revealed an AUC of 0.89. These findings identify non-invasive biomarker panels including circulating miRNAs, inflammatory markers, depressive symptoms and other metabolic variables for predicting MASLD presence and emphasize the importance of precision nutrition in MASLD management and the sustained adherence to healthy lifestyle patterns.
Oral Administration of Deer Bone Collagen Peptide Can Enhance the Skin Hydration Ability and Antioxidant Ability of Aging Mice Induced by D-Gal, and Regulate the Synthesis and Degradation of Collagen
Authors: Zhang Ke , Zhao Chenxu , Liu Kaiyue , Feng Ruyi , Zhao Yan , Zong Ying , Du Rui
Published: May 2024

Skin problems caused by aging have attracted much attention, and marine collagen peptides have been proved to improve these problems, while mammalian collagen peptides are rarely reported. In this study, fermented deer bone collagen peptide (FCP) and non-fermented deer bone collagen peptide (NCP) were extracted from fermented and non-fermented deer bone, respectively, and their peptide sequences and differential proteins were analyzed using LC-MS/MS technology. After they were applied to aging mice induced with D-gal, the skin hydration ability, antioxidant ability, collagen synthesis, and degradation ability of the mice were studied. The results show that FCP and NCP are mainly peptides that constitute type Ⅰ collagen, and their peptide segments are different. In vivo experiments show that FCP and NCP can improve the richness of collagen fibers in the skin of aging mice; improve the hydration ability of skin; promote the activity of antioxidant-related enzymes; and also show that through the TGF-β and MAPK pathways, the synthesis and degradation of collagen in skin are regulated. These results show that deer bone collagen peptide can improve skin problems caused by aging, promote skin hydration and antioxidant capacity of aging mice, and regulate collagen synthesis and degradation through the MAPK pathway.
Effects of Hydrotherapy on the Management of Childbirth and Its Outcomes—A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mellado-García Elena , Díaz-Rodríguez Lourdes , Cortés-Martín Jonathan , Sánchez-García Juan Carlos , Piqueras-Sola Beatriz , Higuero Macías Juan Carlos , Rodríguez-Blanque Raquel
Published: May 2024

The use of hydrotherapy during childbirth has gained relevance due to the demand for natural childbirth and greater respect for the woman’s choice. Studies have shown benefits such as less use of epidural analgesia, increased ability to cope with pain, shorter labor, and a better overall birth experience. Objective: The main objective of this study was to generate further evidence on maternal and birth outcomes associated with the use of hydrotherapy during labor, specifically aiming to describe the effects of water immersion during all stages of labor (first, second, and third) on women. Methodology: A retrospective cohort study was carried out on a random sample of women who gave birth at the Costa del Sol Hospital between January 2010 and December 2020. The calculated sample size was 377 women and the data were extracted from their partograms. After data extraction, two groups were formed: one group used hydrotherapy during childbirth (n = 124), while the other group included women who did not use hydrotherapy during the childbirth process (n = 253). Results: The results highlight significant differences in pain perception, analgesia use, types of labor, and delivery times between the two groups. Women who did not use hydrotherapy reported higher pain perception, with a median (IQR) of 8 (7–9) on a numerical scale, compared to a median (IQR) of 6 (5–7) for the hydrotherapy group. Furthermore, the group without hydrotherapy required epidural analgesia in 40% of cases, while in the hydrotherapy group, it was only necessary in 20%. In terms of the type of delivery, the hydrotherapy group had more spontaneous vaginal deliveries compared to the non-hydrotherapy group, which had more operative vaginal deliveries. The overall duration of labor was longer in the hydrotherapy group, especially in women who arrived at the hospital late in labor. Conclusions: Hydrotherapy is associated with a longer time to delivery. Women with a higher pain tolerance tend to opt for hydrotherapy instead of epidural analgesia.
Community Care Needs of Highly Complex Chronic Patients: An Epidemiological Study in a Healthcare Area
Authors: Brito-Brito Pedro Ruymán , Rodríguez-Álvaro Martín , Fernández-Gutiérrez Domingo Ángel , Núñez-Marrero Janet , Cabeza-Mora Antonio , García-Hernández Alfonso Miguel
Published: May 2024

One of the priorities in family and community care is the epidemiological surveillance of the care needs and dysfunctionality present in populations of highly complex chronic patients (HCCPs) using standardised nursing languages. The aim of this study is to establish the prevalence of care needs and dysfunctionality among HCCPs in a specific health area by municipalities and geographical areas (metropolitan, north, and south) while verifying correlations with sociodemographic, financial, and health characteristics. This is an epidemiological, observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study carried out with a sample of 51,374 HCCPs, whose data were grouped into 31 municipalities. Data were collected on the following variables: sociodemographic, financial, health, functional status (health patterns), and care needs (nursing diagnoses). The mean age of the HCCPs was 73.41 (1.45) years, of which 56.18 (2.86)% were women. The municipalities in the northern area have a significantly higher proportion of older patients, HCCPs, lower incomes, and higher unemployment rates. The southern area had higher proportions of non-Spanish nationals and professionals in the hotel and catering industry, and the metropolitan area had a higher proportion of employed individuals and higher levels of education. Northern municipalities had a higher prevalence of illnesses and anxiolytic and anti-psychotic treatments. Dysfunctionality frequencies did not differ significantly by area. However, a higher prevalence of 13 nursing diagnoses was observed in the north. A high number of correlations were observed between population characteristics, dysfunctionality, and prevalent diagnoses. Finally, the frequencies of dysfunctionality in the population and the most common care needs were mapped by municipality. This research sought to ascertain whether there was an unequal distribution of these two aspects among HCCPs in order to gain a deeper epidemiological understanding of them from a family and community perspective using standardised nursing languages. This study was not registered.
The Public Health Approach to Oral Health: A Literature Review
Authors: Cabrera Mariel , Bedi Raman , Lomazzi Marta
Published: May 2024

Background: Oral health (OH) has evolved beyond dental concerns to encompass psychosocial dimensions and overall well-being. This study reviews OH strategies within a public health framework to identify key elements for effective OH promotion. Methods: A literature review following PRISMA guidelines identified 42 relevant articles from 62 screened. Five themes emerged: group-level, individual-level, policy-level (emphasizing devising OH policies), healthcare delivery, and communication. Common components included OH education, behaviour change, access to OH services, and policy integration. Results: Thematic analysis identified five overarching themes in oral health (OH) promotion strategies, with a focus on tailored approaches for specific populations and components such as education, access to services, interventions, and policy, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of OH promotion. Conclusion: Effective OH promotion requires a multifaceted approach and tailored strategies with interprofessional collaboration. Future research should focus on cost-effectiveness and user-friendly resources for OH professionals and policymakers.
Comparison of the Differences between Two-Photon Excitation, Upconversion, and Conventional Photodynamic Therapy on Cancers in In Vitro and In Vivo Studies
Authors: Xu Chuanshan , Law Siu Kan , Leung Albert Wing Nang
Published: May 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive treatment for several diseases. It combines light energy with a photosensitizer (PS) to destroy the targeted cells or tissues. A PS itself is a non-toxic substance, but it becomes toxic to the target cells through the activation of light at a specific wavelength. There are some limitations of PDT, although it has been used in clinical studies for a long time. Two-photon excitation (TPE) and upconversion (UC) for PDT have been recently developed. A TPE nanoparticle-based PS combines the advantages of TPE and nanotechnology that has emerged as an attractive therapeutic agent for near-infrared red (NIR) light-excited PDT, whilst UC is also used for the NIR light-triggered drug release, activation of ‘caged’ imaging, or therapeutic molecules during PDT process for the diagnosis, imaging, and treatment of cancers. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched, including WanFang Data, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Springer Link, SciFinder, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), without any language constraints. TPE and UCNP were evaluated to determine if they had different effects from PDT on cancers. All eligible studies were analyzed and summarized in this review. Results: TPE-PDT and UCNP-PDT have a high cell or tissue penetration ability through the excitation of NIR light to activate PS molecules. This is much better than the conventional PDT induced by visible or ultraviolet (UV) light. These studies showed a greater PDT efficacy, which was determined by enhanced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduced cell viability, as well as inhibited abnormal cell growth for the treatment of cancers. Conclusions: Conventional PDT involves Type I and Type II reactions for the generation of ROS in the treatment of cancer cells, but there are some limitations. Recently, TPE-PDT and UCNP-PDT have been developed to overcome these problems with the help of nanotechnology in in vitro and in vivo studies.
Fabrication of Ciprofloxacin-Loaded Sodium Alginate Nanobeads Coated with Thiol-Anchored Chitosan Using B-390 Encapsulator Following Optimization by DoE
Authors: Mukhtar Mahwash , Csóka Ildikó , Martinović Josipa , Šelo Gordana , Bucić-Kojić Ana , Orosz László , Paróczai Dóra , Burian Katalin , Ambrus Rita
Published: May 2024

Most infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract can easily be treated by exploiting the already available antibiotics with the change in administration approach and delivery system. Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is used as a drug of choice for many bacterial infections; however, long-term therapy and off-site drug accumulation lead to an increased risk of tendinitis and peripheral neuropathy. To overcome this issue, nanotechnology is being exploited to encapsulate antibiotics within polymeric structures, which not only facilitates dose maintenance at the infection site but also limits off-site side effects. Here, sodium alginate (SA) and thiol-anchored chitosan (TC) were used to encapsulate CIP via a calcium chloride (CaCl2) cross-linker. For this purpose, the B-390 encapsulator was employed in the preparation of nanobeads using a simple technique. The hydrogel-like sample was then freeze-dried, using trehalose or mannitol as a lyoprotectant, to obtain a fine dry powder. Design of Experiment (DoE) was utilized to optimize the nanobead production, in which the influence of different independent variables was studied for their outcome on the polydispersity index (PDI), particle size, zeta potential, and percentage encapsulation efficiency (% EE). In vitro dissolution studies were performed in simulated saliva fluid, simulated gastric fluid, and simulated intestinal fluid. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory studies were also performed along with cytotoxicity profiling. By and large, the study presented positive outcomes, proving the advantage of using nanotechnology in fabricating new delivery approaches using already available antibiotics.
Polycationic Photosensitizers as Effective Anticancer Agents That Destroy Cancer Stem Cells, Cancer Vascularization and Induce Protective Desmoplastic Reaction around Lung Cancers
Authors: Kogan Evgeniya , Meerovich Gennady , Karshieva Saida , Makarova Elena , Romanishkin Igor , Akhlyustina Ekaterina , Meerovich Irina , Zharkov Nikolay , Kharnas Sergey , Levkin Vladimir , Demura Sofya , Chen Zhilong , Loschenov Victor , Reshetov Igor
Published: May 2024

PDT using PSs based on polycationic derivatives of synthetic bacteriochlorin against Lewis lung carcinoma provides effective inhibition of tumor growth with an increase in the lifespan and survival of mice in the group. PDT with polycationic photosensitizers destroys CSCs and tumor neovascularization, and activates the desmoplastic reaction. These results open up new opportunities for increasing the effectiveness of treatment and reducing the incidence of relapses and metastases after PDT.
Impacts of Climate Change on the Habitat Suitability and Natural Product Accumulation of the Medicinal Plant Sophora alopecuroides L. Based on the MaxEnt Model
Authors: Rong Wenwen , Huang Xiang , Hu Shanchao , Zhang Xingxin , Jiang Ping , Niu Panxin , Su Jinjuan , Wang Mei , Chu Guangming
Published: May 2024

Sophora alopecuroides L., a perennial herb in the arid and semi-arid regions of northwest China, has the ecological functions of windbreaking and sand fixation and high medicinal value. In recent years, global warming and human activities have led to changes in suitable habitats for S. alopecuroides, which may affect the accumulation of natural products. In this study, MaxEnt 3.4 and ArcGIS 10.4 software were used to predict the distribution of potentially suitable habitats for S. alopecuroides in China under climate change. Furthermore, the geographical distribution of S. alopecuroides as affected by human activities, the differences in the content of natural products of S. alopecuroides between different suitable habitats, and the correlation between natural products and environmental factors were analyzed. The results showed that suitable habitats for S. alopecuroides were projected to expand in the future, and the major environmental factors were temperature (Bio1), rainfall (Bio18), and soil pH (pH). When Bio1, Bio18, and pH were 8.4283 °C, 7.1968 mm, and 9.9331, respectively, the distribution probability (P) of S. alopecuroides was the highest. After adding a human activity factor, the accuracy of the model prediction results was improved, and the area of suitable habitats was greatly reduced, showing a fragmented pattern. Meanwhile, habitat suitability had a specific effect on the content of natural products in S. alopecuroides. Specifically, the content of natural products in S. alopecuroides in wild habitats was higher than that in artificial cultivation, and highly suitable habitats showed higher contents than those in non-highly suitable habitats. The contents of total alkaloids and total flavonoids were positively correlated with human activities and negatively correlated with land use types. Among them, total alkaloids were negatively correlated with aspect, and total flavonoids were positively correlated with aspect. In addition, it is suggested that Xinjiang should be the priority planting area for S. alopecuroides in China, and priority should be given to protection measures in the Alashan area. Overall, this study provides an important foundation for the determination of priority planting areas and resource protection for S. alopecuroides.
Repurposing Waste from Aggressive Acacia Invaders to Promote Its Management in Large Invaded Areas in Southwestern Europe
Authors: Lorenzo Paula , Morais Maria Cristina
Published: May 2024

Several Acacia species are aggressive invaders outside their native range, often occupying extensive areas. Traditional management approaches have proven to be ineffective and economically unfeasible, especially when dealing with large infestations. Here, we explain a different approach to complement traditional management by using the waste from Acacia management activities. This approach can provide stakeholders with tools to potentially reduce management costs and encourage proactive management actions. It also prioritizes potential applications of Acacia waste biomass for agriculture and forestry as a way of sequestering the carbon released during control actions. We advocate the use of compost/vermicompost, green manure and charcoal produced from Acacia waste, as several studies have shown their effectiveness in improving soil fertility and supporting crop growth. The use of waste and derivatives as bioherbicides or biostimulants is pending validation under field conditions. Although invasive Acacia spp. are banned from commercialization and cultivation, the use of their waste remains permissible. In this respect, we recommend the collection of Acacia waste during the vegetative stage and its subsequent use after being dried or when dead, to prevent further propagation. Moreover, it is crucial to establish a legal framework to mitigate potential risks associated with the handling and disposal of Acacia waste.
Design and Optimization of NR-Based Stretchable Conductive Composites Filled with MoSi2 Nanoparticles and MWCNTs: Perspectives from Experimental Characterization and Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Jiang Ruifeng , Ma Yanbin , Fan Zhuojun , Chen Yongping , Zheng Tingting , Yu Rentong , Liao Jianhe
Published: May 2024

Stretchable conductive composites play a pivotal role in the development of personalized electronic devices, electronic skins, and artificial implant devices. This article explores the fabrication and characterization of stretchable composites based on natural rubber (NR) filled with molybdenum disilicide (MoSi2) nanoparticles and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Experimental characterization and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are employed to investigate the static and dynamic properties of the composites, including morphology, glass transition temperature (Tg), electrical conductivity, and mechanical behavior. Results show that the addition of MoSi2 nanoparticles enhances the dispersion of MWCNTs within the NR matrix, optimizing the formation of a conductive network. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) confirms the Tg reduction with the addition of MWCNTs and the influence of MoSi2 content on Tg. Mechanical testing reveals that the tensile strength increases with MoSi2 content, with an optimal ratio of 4:1 MoSi2:MWCNTs. Electrical conductivity measurements demonstrate that the MoSi2/MWCNTs/NR composites exhibit enhanced conductivity, reaching optimal values at specific filler ratios. MD simulations further support experimental findings, highlighting the role of MoSi2 in improving dispersion and mechanical properties. Overall, the study elucidates the synergistic effects of nanoparticles and nanotubes in enhancing the properties of stretchable conductive composites.
PVA/PANI-DBSA Nanomesh Tactile Sensor for Force Feedback
Authors: Wang Boyi , Du Rong , Liu Yi , Song Han
Published: May 2024

Touch serves as an important medium for human–environment interaction. The piezoresistive tactile sensor has attracted much attention due to its convenient technology, simple principle, and convenient signal acquisition and analysis. In this paper, conductive beads-on-string polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polyaniline doped with dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid (PANI-DBSA) nanofibers were fabricated via the electrospinning technique. Due to the special nanostructure of PVA-coated PANI-DBSA, the tactile sensor presented a wide measuring range of 12 Pa–121 kPa and appreciable sensitivity of 8.576 kPa−1 at 12 Pa~484 Pa. In addition, the response time and recovery time of the sensor were approximately 500 ms, demonstrating promising prospects in the field of tactile sensing for active upper limb prostheses.
Design and Experiments of the Data Acquisition System for Bale Rolling Characteristic Parameters on a Large-Scale Round Bale Machine
Authors: Wang Junyue , Zeng Fandi , Cui Ji , Bai Hongbin , Li Xuying , Zhao Zhihuan
Published: May 2024

The parameters of the roll characteristics of a large-scale round bale machine were collected in real time to investigate the bale rolling mechanism. This investigation develops a set of adaptable and highly integrated data acquisition systems for the bale rolling performance parameters of large-type round bale machines. A rolling experiment is conducted using sunflower straw as the material, and the power consumption and radial tension of the roller-round bale machine during the bale rolling process are studied. In the grass core formation stage, the round bale machine’s torque need was minimal, the radial tension of the bale remained nearly constant, and the bale chamber was primarily filled with loose sunflower straw. The motor torque and the straw bale’s radial tension both showed a tendency of gradual increase when the round bale machine was in the grass-filling stage. The motor torque and bale radial tension displayed a roughly linear trend of rapid rise as the sunflower straw continued to enter the rolling bale chamber; this was when the round bale machine was in the compressed bale rolling stage. When the power consumption of the round bale machine was measured using the data acquisition system during the test bench empty run and core-creation stage, the energy consumption comparison analysis produced a relative error of 5.8%. During the stage of bale rolling and compression, the data acquisition system monitored the power consumption of the round bale machine. The relative error was 9.5%. The data acquisition system of the round bale machine test bed has an accuracy of 90.5%–94.2% when measuring the machine’s power consumption, indicating that it is a stable and efficient system. This study provides a foundation for further research on intelligent the roller-round bale machine.
Characterization and Performance Evaluation of Digital Light Processing 3D Printed Functional Anion Exchange Membranes in Electrodialysis
Authors: Yu Xue , Yang Hongyi , Lv Xinran , Zhang Xin , Jegatheesan Veeriah , Zhou Xiaobin , Zhang Yang
Published: May 2024

With the rapid development of 3D printing technologies, more attention has been focused on using 3D printing for the fabrication of membranes. This study investigated the application of digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing combined with quaternization processes to develop dense anion exchange membranes (AEMs) for electrodialysis (ED) separation of Cl− and SO42− ions. It was discovered that at optimal curing times of 40 min, the membrane pore density was significantly enhanced and the surface roughness was reduced, and this resulted in an elevation of desalination rates (97.5–98.7%) and concentration rates (165.8–174.1%) of the ED process. Furthermore, increasing the number of printed layers improved the membranes’ overall polymerization and performance, with double-layer printing showing superior ion flux. This study also highlights the impact of the polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) molecular weight on membrane efficacy, where PEGDA-700 outperformed PEGDA-400 in ion transport capabilities and desalination efficiency. Additionally, higher 4-vinylbenzyl chloride (VBC) content improved the quaternary ammonium group concentration and membrane conductivity, and hence elevated the ED performance. Under optimized conditions, DLP 3D printed membranes demonstrated exceptional selectivity of 24.0 for Cl−/SO42− and a selective purity of 81.4%. With a current density of 400 A/m2, the current efficiency and energy consumption were in the range of 82.4% to 99.7%, and 17.2 to 25.4 kW‧h‧kg−1, respectively, showcasing the potential of advanced manufacturing techniques in creating efficient and functional ion exchange membranes.
Opiate Withdrawal-Associated Esotropia: A Case Report and Systematic Review
Authors: Kasula Varun , Fogleman Brody M. , Dev Maaya , Rizzieri Tyler , O’Brien Corinne , Shetty Rupa
Published: May 2024

Esotropia, which is the medial deviation of one or both eyes, is a rare withdrawal symptom that has been associated with opiate addiction. We report a case of a 36-year-old female patient who developed acute-onset esotropia and diplopia after self-admission to a psychiatric facility for fentanyl addiction treatment and a systematic review of this rare presentation. A search of four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar) was conducted as of January 2024. We found 15 documented cases of opiate withdrawal-associated esotropia, with an average age of 27.2 years and an average time between last use and symptom onset of 5.61 days. The most common symptom was diplopia, especially binocular diplopia, and the majority of cases resolved without pharmacologic intervention. Considering the current opioid crisis, our systematic review and case report add valuable insight into the less-explored neurological and ophthalmological consequences of opiate withdrawal, a condition that should always be considered in cases of acute or chronic onset esotropia.
Recent Advancements in Material Waste Recycling: Conventional, Direct Conversion, and Additive Manufacturing Techniques
Authors: Golvaskar Mandar , Ojo Sammy A. , Kannan Manigandan
Published: May 2024

To improve the microstructure and mechanical properties of fundamental materials including aluminum, stainless steel, superalloys, and titanium alloys, traditional manufacturing techniques have for years been utilized in critical sectors including the aerospace and nuclear industries. However, additive manufacturing has become an efficient and effective means for fabricating these materials with superior mechanical attributes, making it easier to develop complex parts with relative ease compared to conventional processes. The waste generated in additive manufacturing processes are usually in the form of powders, while that of conventional processes come in the form of chips. The current study focuses on the features and uses of various typical recycling methods for traditional and additive manufacturing that are presently utilized to recycle material waste from both processes. Additionally, the main factors impacting the microstructural features and density of the chip-unified components are discussed. Moreover, it recommends a novel approach for recycling chips, while improving the process of development, bonding quality of the chips, microstructure, overall mechanical properties, and fostering sustainable and environmentally friendly engineering.
The Prophet’s Day in China: A Study of the Inculturation of Islam in China, Based on Fieldwork in Xi’an, Najiaying, and Hezhou
Authors: Zhou Chuanbin , Shang Ping , Ma Wenkui
Published: May 2024

Islam is widely spread throughout every corner of China, with the Hui people, the largest Muslim ethnic group in China, numbering over 10 million people, serving as its main carrier. Their culture types and local features exhibit great diversity across different provinces. The ceremony of Prophet’s Day or Mawlid al-Nabi in China, as one of the three fundamental festivals of the Hui people alongside Eid al-Fitur and Eid al-Qurban, appears to be more comprehensive, open, and localized. Drawing from fieldwork in three Hui communities—Xi’an in Shaanxi province, Najiaying in Yunnan province, and Hezhou in Gansu province—this paper approaches the topic from the perspective of inculturation and cultural innovation. It aims to describe the ritual processes observed in these three different Hui communities and discuss how the Hui people integrate Islam with traditional Chinese culture in their local contexts, with the intention of forming and preserving their own cultural characteristics.
Negotiating Complexity within the Dialectical and Cosmopolitan Johannine Situation
Authors: Anderson Paul N.
Published: May 2024

While understandings of Johannine Christianity have been many and varied, single-issue analyses no longer suffice. Things were more complex than simply inferring that synagogue-Johannine tensions, pneumatizing Gnostics, heretical secessionists, or Petrine ecclesiasts was the lone issue. Nor is a two-level reading of the Johannine narrative plausible, as there is no evidence of alien material underlying John’s story of Jesus. Thus, the early, middle, and later phases of the Johannine tradition must be taken into consideration, as an autonomous memory of Jesus is best seen as developing in a first edition, which was finalized later by the Johannine Elder after writing the Epistles. Within that perspective, Social Identity Complexity Theory is well applied as a means of understanding a number of partners in dialogue within the Johannine Situation, including the stances of Jesus remembered by the Fourth Evangelist and Johannine Elder, who addressed no fewer than seven crises over seven decades within the cosmopolitan Johannine Situation.
Bitcoin Volatility and Intrinsic Time Using Double-Subordinated Lévy Processes
Authors: Shirvani Abootaleb , Mittnik Stefan , Lindquist William Brent , Rachev Svetlozar
Published: May 2024

We propose a doubly subordinated Lévy process, the normal double inverse Gaussian (NDIG), to model the time series properties of the cryptocurrency bitcoin. By using two subordinated processes, NDIG captures both the skew and fat-tailed properties of, as well as the intrinsic time driving, bitcoin returns and gives rise to an arbitrage-free option pricing model. In this framework, we derive two bitcoin volatility measures. The first combines NDIG option pricing with the Chicago Board Options Exchange VIX model to compute an implied volatility; the second uses the volatility of the unit time increment of the NDIG model. Both volatility measures are compared to the volatility based on the historical standard deviation. With appropriate linear scaling, the NDIG process perfectly captures the observed in-sample volatility.
CardioXplorer: An Open-Source Modular Teleoperative Robotic Catheter Ablation System
Authors: Xu Zhouyang , Zeidan Aya Mutaz , He Yetao , Leung Lisa , Byrne Calum , Sabu Sachin , Wu Yuanwei , Chen Zhiyue , Williams Steven E. , Lindenroth Lukas , Behar Jonathan , Rinaldi Christopher Aldo , Whitaker John , Arujuna Aruna , Housden Richard , Rhode Kawal
Published: May 2024

Atrial fibrillation, the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmia, is treated by catheter ablation to isolate electrical triggers. Clinical trials on robotic catheter systems hold promise for improving the safety and efficacy of the procedure. However, expense and proprietary designs hinder accessibility to such systems. This paper details an open-source, modular, three-degree-of-freedom robotic platform for teleoperating commercial ablation catheters through joystick navigation. We also demonstrate a catheter-agnostic handle interface permitting customization with commercial catheters. Collaborating clinicians performed benchtop targeting trials, comparing manual and robotic catheter navigation performance. The robot reduced task duration by 1.59 s across participants and five trials. Validation through mean motion jerk analysis revealed 35.2% smoother robotic navigation for experts (≥10 years experience) compared to the intermediate group. Yet, both groups achieved smoother robot motion relative to the manual approach, with the experts and intermediates exhibiting 42.2% and 13.6% improvements, respectively. These results highlight the potential of this system for enhancing catheter-based procedures. The source code and designs of CardioXplorer have been made publicly available to lower boundaries and drive innovations that enhance procedure efficacy beyond human capabilities.
Autonomous Alignment and Docking Control for a Self-Reconfigurable Modular Mobile Robotic System
Authors: Feng Shumin , Liu Yujiong , Pressgrove Isaac , Ben-Tzvi Pinhas
Published: May 2024

This paper presents the path planning and motion control of a self-reconfigurable mobile robot system, focusing on module-to-module autonomous docking and alignment tasks. STORM, which stands for Self-configurable and Transformable Omni-Directional Robotic Modules, features a unique mode-switching ability and novel docking mechanism design. This enables the modules that make up STORM to dock with each other and form a variety configurations in or to perform a large array of tasks. The path planning and motion control presented here consists of two parallel schemes. A Lyapunov function-based precision controller is proposed to align the target docking mechanisms in a small range of the target position. Then, an optimization-based path planning algorithm is proposed to help find the fastest path and determine when to switch its locomotion mode in a much larger range. Both numerical simulations and real-world experiments were carried out to validate these proposed controllers.
GeoSparseNet: A Multi-Source Geometry-Aware CNN for Urban Scene Analysis
Authors: Afzal Muhammad Kamran , Liu Weiquan , Zang Yu , Chen Shuting , Afzal Hafiz Muhammad Rehan , Adam Jibril Muhammad , Yang Bai , Li Jonathan , Wang Cheng
Published: May 2024

The convolutional neural networks (CNNs) functioning on geometric learning for the urban large-scale 3D meshes are indispensable because of their substantial, complex, and deformed shape constitutions. To address this issue, we proposed a novel Geometry-Aware Multi-Source Sparse-Attention CNN (GeoSparseNet) for the urban large-scale triangular mesh classification task. GeoSparseNet leverages the non-uniformity of 3D meshes to depict both broad flat areas and finely detailed features by adopting the multi-scale convolutional kernels. By operating on the mesh edges to prepare for subsequent convolutions, our method exploits the inherent geodesic connections by utilizing the Large Kernel Attention (LKA) based Pooling and Unpooling layers to maintain the shape topology for accurate classification predictions. Learning which edges in a mesh face to collapse, GeoSparseNet establishes a task-oriented process where the network highlights and enhances crucial features while eliminating unnecessary ones. Compared to previous methods, our innovative approach outperforms them significantly by directly processing extensive 3D mesh data, resulting in more discerning feature maps. We achieved an accuracy rate of 87.5% when testing on an urban large-scale model dataset of the Australian city of Adelaide.
Reviewing Space-Borne GNSS-Reflectometry for Detecting Freeze/Thaw Conditions of Near-Surface Soils
Authors: Liang Haishan , Wu Xuerui
Published: May 2024

GNSS-Reflectometry, a technique that harnesses the power of microwave remote sensing, is poised to revolutionize our ability to detect and monitor near-surface soil freeze/thaw processes. This technique’s theoretical underpinnings are deeply rooted in the comprehensive explanation of the Zhang–Zhao dielectric constant model, which provides crucial insights into the behavior of frozen and thawed soils. The model elucidates how the dielectric properties of soil change as it transitions between frozen and thawed states, offering a scientific basis for understanding reflectivity variations. Furthermore, the theoretical framework includes a set of formulas that are instrumental in calculating reflectivity at Lower Right (LR) polarization and in deriving Dual-Polarization Differential Observables (DDMs). These calculations are pivotal for interpreting the signals captured by GNSS-R sensors, allowing for the detection of subtle changes in the soil’s surface conditions. The evolution of GNSS-R as a tool for detecting freeze/thaw phenomena has been substantiated through qualitative analyses involving multiple satellite missions, such as SMAP-R, TDS-1, and CYGNSS. These analyses have provided empirical evidence of the technique’s effectiveness, illustrating its capacity to capture the dynamics of soil freezing and thawing processes. In addition to these qualitative assessments, the application of a discriminant retrieval algorithm using data from CYGNSS and F3E GNOS-R has further solidified the technique’s potential. This algorithm contributes to refining the accuracy of freeze/thaw detection by distinguishing between frozen and thawed soil states with greater precision. The deployment of space-borne GNSS-R for monitoring near-surface freeze/thaw cycles has yielded commendable results, exhibiting robust consistency and delivering relatively precise retrieval outcomes. These achievements stand as testaments to the technique’s viability and its growing significance in the field of remote sensing. However, it is imperative to recognize and actively address certain limitations that have been highlighted in this review. These limitations serve as critical focal points for future research endeavors, directing the efforts toward enhancing the technique’s overall performance and applicability. Addressing these challenges will be essential for leveraging the full potential of GNSS-R to advance our understanding and management of near-surface soil freeze/thaw processes.