bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Antiresorptive Drugs on Osseointegrated Dental Implants: A Systematic Review
Authors: Li Joyce Tin Wing , Leung Yiu Yan
Published: April 2024

Background: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the impact of antiresorptive drug therapy on osseointegrated dental implants and the association with medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). Methods: A systematic search, including a computer search of several databases with specific keywords, a reference search, and a manual search of four key maxillofacial journals were performed. Relevant articles were then evaluated and those that fulfilled the five predetermined criteria were chosen to enter the final review. A total of 445 implants in 135 subjects were included in the eight studies analyzed in the final review. Results: The failure rate of dental implants after antiresorptive medication in the included studies was 23%, with 83% of failures attributed to MRONJ. The average time from antiresorptive drug initiation to MRONJ development was approximately 34 months, ranging from 3 months to 16 years. The majority of MRONJ cases were classified as stage 2, and all sites showed either complete healing or substantial mucosal coverage after treatment. Conclusions: This review highlights the significant impact of antiresorptive drugs on osseo- integrated implants, with MRONJ identified as a leading cause of implant failure. The potential role of peri-implantitis as a trigger for MRONJ is emphasized. Regular monitoring and maintaining good periodontal health, especially within the first three years of antiresorptive drug therapy initiation, are crucial for implant success. Physicians and dentists should provide comprehensive information to patients prescribed with antiresorptive drugs, emphasizing the need for an awareness of the risks of MRONJ in the context of osseointegrated implants. A longer term of follow-up is recommended to identify and manage MRONJ around dental implants in an early manner.
The Effect of Preoperative Administration of Glucocorticoids on the Postoperative Complication Rate in Liver Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Turan Caner , Kovács Emőke Henrietta , Szabó László , Atakan Işıl , Dembrovszky Fanni , Ocskay Klementina , Váncsa Szilárd , Hegyi Péter , Zubek László , Molnár Zsolt
Published: April 2024

Background: Glucocorticoids may grant a protective effect against postoperative complications. The evidence on their efficacy, however, has been inconclusive thus far. We investigated the effects of preoperatively administered glucocorticoids on the overall postoperative complication rate, and on liver function recovery in patients undergoing major liver surgery. Methods: We performed a systematic literature search on PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL in October 2021, and repeated the search in April 2023. Pre-study protocol was registered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42021284559). Studies investigating patients undergoing liver resections or transplantation who were administered glucocorticoids preoperatively and reported postoperative complications were eligible. Meta-analyses were performed using META and DMETAR packages in R with a random effects model. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB2. Results: The selection yielded 11 eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 964 patients. Data from nine RCTs (n = 837) revealed a tendency toward a lower overall complication rate with glucocorticoid administration (odds ratio: 0.71; 95% confidence interval: 0.38–1.31, p = 0.23), but it was not statistically significant. Data pooled from seven RCTs showed a significant reduction in wound infections with glucocorticoid administration [odds ratio: 0.64; 95% confidence interval: 0.45–0.92 p = 0.02]. Due to limited data availability, meta-analysis of liver function recovery parameters was not possible. Conclusions: The preoperative administration of glucocorticoids did not significantly reduce the overall postoperative complication rate. Future clinical trials should investigate homogenous patient populations with a specific focus on postoperative liver recovery.
Stimulus Complexity Can Enhance Art Appreciation: Phenomenological and Psychophysiological Evidence for the Pleasure-Interest Model of Aesthetic Liking
Authors: Husselman Tammy-Ann , Filho Edson , Zugic Luca W. , Threadgold Emma , Ball Linden J.
Published: April 2024

We tested predictions deriving from the “Pleasure-Interest Model of Aesthetic Liking” (PIA Model), whereby aesthetic preferences arise from two fluency-based processes: an initial automatic, percept-driven default process and a subsequent perceiver-driven reflective process. One key trigger for reflective processing is stimulus complexity. Moreover, if meaning can be derived from such complexity, then this can engender increased interest and elevated liking. Experiment 1 involved graffiti street-art images, pre-normed to elicit low, moderate and high levels of interest. Subjective reports indicated a predicted enhancement in liking across increasing interest levels. Electroencephalography (EEG) recordings during image viewing revealed different patterns of alpha power in temporal brain regions across interest levels. Experiment 2 enforced a brief initial image-viewing stage and a subsequent reflective image-viewing stage. Differences in alpha power arose in most EEG channels between the initial and deliberative viewing stages. A linear increase in aesthetic liking was again seen across interest levels, with different patterns of alpha activity in temporal and occipital regions across these levels. Overall, the phenomenological data support the PIA Model, while the physiological data suggest that enhanced aesthetic liking might be associated with “flow-feelings” indexed by alpha activity in brain regions linked to visual attention and reducing distraction.
Effect of Oscillation and Pulmonary Expansion Therapy on Pulmonary Outcomes after Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Williams Christopher D. , Holbrook Kirsten M. , Shiari Aryan , Zaied Ali A. , Al-Sharif Hussam Z. , Rishi Abdul R. , Frank Ryan D. , Zurob Adel S. , Rishi Muhammad A.
Published: April 2024

Background: Oscillation and pulmonary expansion (OPE) therapy can decrease postoperative pulmonary complications in a general surgical population, but its effect after cardiac surgery has not been reported, to our knowledge. We hypothesized that using an OPE device after cardiac surgery before extubation would decrease pulmonary complications. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included adults undergoing elective open cardiac surgery at our institution from January 2018 through January 2019, who had an American Society of Anesthesiologists score of 3 or greater. For mechanically ventilated patients after cardiac surgery, a new OPE protocol was adopted, comprising an initial 10-min OPE treatment administered in-line with the ventilator circuit, then continued treatments for 48 h after extubation. The primary outcome measure was the occurrence of severe postoperative respiratory complications, including the need for antibiotics, increased use of supplemental oxygen, and prolonged hospital length of stay (LOS). Demographic, clinical, and outcome data were compared between patients receiving usual care (involving post-extubation hyperinflation) and those treated under the new OPE protocol. The primary outcome measure was the occurrence of severe postoperative respiratory complications, including the need for antibiotics, increased use of supplemental oxygen, and prolonged hospital length of stay (LOS). Demographic, clinical, and outcome data were compared between patients receiving usual care (involving post-extubation hyperinflation) and those treated under the new OPE protocol. Results: Of 104 patients, 54 patients received usual care, and 50 received OPE. Usual-care recipients had more men (74% vs. 62%; p = 0.19) and were older (median, 70 vs. 67 years; p = 0.009) than OPE recipients. The OPE group had a significantly shorter hospital LOS than the usual-care group (mean, 6.2 vs. 7.4 days; p = 0.04). Other measures improved with OPE but did not reach significance: shorter ventilator duration (mean, 0.6 vs. 1.1 days with usual care; p = 0.06) and shorter LOS in the intensive care unit (mean, 2.7 vs. 3.4 days; p = 0.06). On multivariate analysis, intensive care unit LOS was significantly shorter for the OPE group (mean difference, −0.85 days; 95% CI, −1.65 to −0.06; p = 0.04). The OPE group had a lower percentage of postoperative complications (10% vs. 20%). Conclusions: OPE therapy after cardiac surgery is associated with decreased intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital LOS.
Role of Oral Microbiota Dysbiosis in the Development and Progression of Oral Lichen Planus
Authors: Lavoro Alessandro , Cultrera Giovanni , Gattuso Giuseppe , Lombardo Cinzia , Falzone Luca , Saverio Candido , Libra Massimo , Salmeri Mario
Published: April 2024

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease of the oral cavity with malignant potential affecting 1.01% of the worldwide population. The clinical patterns of this oral disorder, characterized by relapses and remissions of the lesions, appear on buccal, lingual, gingival, and labial mucosa causing a significant reduction in the quality of life. Currently, there are no specific treatments for this disease, and the available therapies with topical and systemic corticosteroids only reduce symptoms. Although the etiopathogenesis of this pathological condition has not been completely understood yet, several exogenous and endogenous risk factors have been proposed over the years. The present review article summarized the underlying mechanisms of action involved in the onset of OLP and the most well-known triggering factors. According to the current data, oral microbiota dysbiosis could represent a potential diagnostic biomarker for OLP. However, further studies should be undertaken to validate their use in clinical practice, as well as to provide a better understanding of mechanisms of action and develop novel effective intervention strategies against OLP.
Acute Kidney Injury Associated with Severe Leptospirosis: Fatal Re-Emerging Disease in Latin America
Authors: Osorio-Rodríguez Elber , Rodelo-Barrios Dairo , Rebolledo-Maldonado Carlos , Polo-Barranco Alberto , Patiño-Patiño Jhonny , Aldana-Roa Mauricio , Sánchez-Daza Valeria , Sierra-Ordoñez Emily , Bettin-Martínez Alfonso
Published: April 2024

Leptospirosis is a re-emerging zoonotic disease that has had an unprecedented impact on most health systems in the world. The spectrum of symptoms is variable and usually ranges from asymptomatic cases to severe manifestations involving multiple organ dysfunction accompanied by jaundice, hemorrhage, meningitis, and acute kidney injury that requires the need for intensive care assistance. Although early antibiotic treatment is usually effective, in severe cases, it may require renal replacement therapy, invasive mechanical ventilation, vasoactive support, and invasive hemodynamic monitoring, increasing the risk of death. In Latin America, the real burden of acute kidney injury in this condition is unknown and may be underestimated due to the rapid progression of the disease, similar to other vector zoonoses, and the low coverage of diagnostic tests in primary care, especially in rural regions. Therefore, below, we review the clinical aspects and describe the scientific, clinical, and therapeutic evidence of acute kidney injury attributed to Leptospira spp. and its relevance in patients with severe leptospirosis in Latin America.
Efficacy of Digital Therapeutics for Pulmonary Rehabilitation: A Multi-Center, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kim Chul , Choi Hee-Eun , Rhee Chin Kook , Song Jun Hyeong , Lee Jae Ha
Published: April 2024

Background: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of digital therapeutics (DTx), EASYBREATH, for pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in patients with chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs). Materials and Methods: This prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted at multiple centers. Participants were randomly allocated 1:1 to the DTx group (DTxG), provided with DTx using EASYBREATH. The DTxG underwent an 8-week PR program with evaluations conducted at baseline, four weeks, and eight weeks. The control group (CG) underwent one PR session and was advised to exercise and undergo the same evaluation. The primary outcome was the change in six-minute walking distance (6MWD) over eight weeks, and secondary outcomes included changes in scores of Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease assessment test (CAT), and St. George’s respiratory questionnaire (SGRQ). Results: The change in 6MWD after eight weeks demonstrated a significant difference between the DTxG and CG (57.68 m vs. 21.71 m, p = 0.0008). The change in mMRC scores (p = 0.0008), CAT scores (p < 0.0001), and total SGRQ scores (p = 0.0003) also showed a significant difference between the groups after eight weeks. Conclusions: EASYBREATH significantly improved exercise capacity, alleviated dyspnea, and enhanced the overall quality of life at eight weeks. EASYBREATH is a highly accessible, time-efficient, and effective treatment option for CRD with high compliance.
The Putative GATA Transcription Factor SbGATA22 as a Novel Regulator of Dhurrin Biosynthesis
Authors: Rosati Viviana C. , Quinn Alicia A. , Gleadow Roslyn M. , Blomstedt Cecilia K.
Published: April 2024

Cyanogenic glucosides are specialized metabolites produced by over 3000 species of higher plants from more than 130 families. The deployment of cyanogenic glucosides is influenced by biotic and abiotic factors in addition to being developmentally regulated, consistent with their roles in plant defense and stress mitigation. Despite their ubiquity, very little is known regarding the molecular mechanisms that regulate their biosynthesis. The biosynthetic pathway of dhurrin, the cyanogenic glucoside found in the important cereal crop sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench), was described over 20 years ago, and yet no direct regulator of the biosynthetic genes has been identified. To isolate regulatory proteins that bind to the promoter region of the key dhurrin biosynthetic gene of sorghum, SbCYP79A1, yeast one-hybrid screens were performed. A bait fragment containing 1204 base pairs of the SbCYP79A1 5′ regulatory region was cloned upstream of a reporter gene and introduced into Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Subsequently, the yeast was transformed with library cDNA representing RNA from two different sorghum developmental stages. From these screens, we identified SbGATA22, an LLM domain B-GATA transcription factor that binds to the putative GATA transcription factor binding motifs in the SbCYP79A1 promoter region. Transient assays in Nicotiana benthamiana show that SbGATA22 localizes to the nucleus. The expression of SbGATA22, in comparison with SbCYP79A1 expression and dhurrin concentration, was analyzed over 14 days of sorghum development and in response to nitrogen application, as these conditions are known to affect dhurrin levels. Collectively, these findings suggest that SbGATA22 may act as a negative regulator of SbCYP79A1 expression and provide a preliminary insight into the molecular regulation of dhurrin biosynthesis in sorghum.
Influence of Lubrication Status on Milling Performance of Bionic Micro-Textured Tools
Authors: Shi Hu , Ma Chunlu , Wang Baizhong , Li Qinghua
Published: April 2024

Titanium alloy material has physical properties such as low thermal conductivity, high hardness, and surface resilience, which are prone to problems such as large milling force, low machining efficiency, and poor surface quality in processed products during dry milling. This document details our process of isolating micro-textures from biological structures, applying them to cutting tool surfaces to create micro-texture milling cutters, and employing this micro-texture technique to reduce friction and prevent wear on these cutters. According to the milling dosage and the installation position between the tool and the workpiece, the effective working area of the cutting edge of the ball-end milling cutter is calculated. At the same time, a self-lubricating cutter was constructed by using a laser to process micro-textures and filling solid lubricant inside the micro-textures. An analysis was conducted to compare the milling efficiency of bionic microtextured cutters in both dry and micro-lubricated environments. It was found that the self-lubricating tool promoted a 3% to 5% decrease in milling force, a reduction in the coefficient of friction, a high surface finish of the machined workpiece, and an alleviation of chip sticking at the edge area.
Bioinspired Polymers: Bridging Nature’s Ingenuity with Synthetic Innovation
Authors: Omidian Hossein , Babanejad Niloofar
Published: April 2024

This review delves into the cutting-edge field of bioinspired polymer composites, tackling the complex task of emulating nature’s efficiency in synthetic materials. The research is dedicated to creating materials that not only mirror the strength and resilience found in natural structures, such as spider silk and bone, but also prioritize environmental sustainability. The study explores several critical aspects, including the design of lightweight composites, the development of reversible adhesion methods that draw inspiration from nature, and the creation of high-performance sensing and actuation devices. Moreover, it addresses the push toward more eco-friendly material practices, such as ice mitigation techniques and sustainable surface engineering. The exploration of effective energy storage solutions and the progress in biomaterials for biomedical use points to a multidisciplinary approach to surpass the existing barriers in material science. This paper highlights the promise held by bioinspired polymer composites to fulfill the sophisticated needs of contemporary applications, highlighting the urgent call for innovative and sustainable advancements.
Hybrid System of Proportional Hilfer-Type Fractional Differential Equations and Nonlocal Conditions with Respect to Another Function
Authors: Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Wongsantisuk Phollakrit , Samadi Ayub , Tariboon Jessada
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a new class of coupled hybrid systems of proportional sequential ψ-Hilfer fractional differential equations, subjected to nonlocal boundary conditions were investigated. Based on a generalization of the Krasnosel’skii˘’s fixed point theorem due to Burton, sufficient conditions were established for the existence of solutions. A numerical example was constructed illustrating the main theoretical result. For special cases of the parameters involved in the system many new results were covered. The obtained result is new and significantly contributes to existing results in the literature on coupled systems of proportional sequential ψ-Hilfer fractional differential equations.
Improved Financial Predicting Method Based on Time Series Long Short-Term Memory Algorithm
Authors: Li Kangyi , Zhou Yang
Published: April 2024

With developments in global economic integration and the increase in future economic uncertainty, it is imperative to have the ability to predict future capital in relation to financial capital inflow and outflow predictions to ensure capital optimization is within a controllable range within the current macroeconomic environment and situation. This paper proposes an automated capital prediction strategy for the capital supply chain using time series analysis artificial intelligence methods. Firstly, to analyze the fluctuation and tail risk of the financial characteristics, the paper explores the financial characteristics for measuring the dynamic VaR from the perspectives of volatility, tail, and peak with the Bayesian peaks over threshold (POT) model. Following this, in order to make the modeling more refined, the forecast targets are split before modeling with seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) models and Prophet models. Finally, the time series modeling of the wavelet Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model is carried out using a two-part analysis method to determine the linear separated wavelet and non-linear embedded wavelet parts to predict strong volatility in financial capital. Taking the user capital flow of the Yu’e Bao platform, the results prove the feasibility and prediction accuracy of the innovative model proposed.
Using a Mix of Finite Difference Methods and Fractional Differential Transformations to Solve Modified Black–Scholes Fractional Equations
Authors: Sugandha Agus , Rusyaman Endang , Sukono  , Carnia Ema
Published: April 2024

This paper discusses finding solutions to the modified Fractional Black–Scholes equation. As is well known, the options theory is beneficial in the stock market. Using call-and-pull options, investors can theoretically decide when to sell, hold, or buy shares for maximum profits. However, the process of forming the Black–Scholes model uses a normal distribution, where, in reality, the call option formula obtained is less realistic in the stock market. Therefore, it is necessary to modify the model to make the option values obtained more realistic. In this paper, the method used to determine the solution to the modified Fractional Black–Scholes equation is a combination of the finite difference method and the fractional differential transformation method. The results show that the combined method of finite difference and fractional differential transformation is a very good approximation for the solution of the Fractional Black–Scholes equation.
A Successive over Relaxation Implicit Iterative Algorithm for Solving Stochastic Linear Systems with Markov Jumps
Authors: Wu Tianrui , Huang Peiqi , Chen Hong
Published: April 2024

In order to solve continuous stochastic Lyapunov equations, a novel implicit iterative algorithm is presented by means of successive over relaxation (SOR) iteration in this article. Throughout this method, three tuning parameters are added for the improvement of the convergence rate. It is shown that this algorithm is monotonically bounded, and the convergence condition is also given and extended. Applying the latest updated estimates, this algorithm can attain a better convergence performance compared with other existing iterative algorithms when choosing appropriate tuning parameters. Finally, a numerical example is provided to illustrate the feasibility and priority of this approach.
Asymptotic for Orthogonal Polynomials with Respect to a Rational Modification of a Measure Supported on the Semi-Axis
Authors: Féliz-Sánchez Carlos , Pijeira-Cabrera Héctor , Quintero-Roba Javier
Published: April 2024

Given a sequence of orthogonal polynomials {Ln}n=0∞, orthogonal with respect to a positive Borel ν measure supported on R+, let {Qn}n=0∞ be the the sequence of orthogonal polynomials with respect to the modified measure r(x)dν(x), where r is certain rational function. This work is devoted to the proof of the relative asymptotic formula Qn(d)(z)Ln(d)(z)⇉n∏k=1N1ak+iz+akAk∏j=1N2z+bjbj+iBj, on compact subsets of C∖R+, where ak and bj are the zeros and poles of r, and the Ak, Bj are their respective multiplicities.
RISOPA: Rapid Imperceptible Strong One-Pixel Attacks in Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Nam Wonhong , Kim Kunha , Moon Hyunwoo , Noh Hyeongmin , Park Jiyeon , Kil Hyunyoung
Published: April 2024

Recent research has revealed that subtle imperceptible perturbations can deceive well-trained neural network models, leading to inaccurate outcomes. These instances, known as adversarial examples, pose significant threats to the secure application of machine learning techniques in safety-critical systems. In this paper, we delve into the study of one-pixel attacks in deep neural networks, recently reported as a kind of adversarial examples. To identify such one-pixel attacks, most existing methodologies rely on the differential evolution method, which utilizes random selection from the current population to escape local optima. However, the differential evolution technique might waste search time and overlook good solutions if the number of iterations is insufficient. Hence, in this paper, we propose a gradient ascent with momentum approach to efficiently discover good solutions for the one-pixel attack problem. As our method takes a more direct route to the goal compared to existing methods relying on blind random walks, it can effectively identify one-pixel attacks. Our experiments conducted on popular CNNs demonstrate that, in comparison with existing methodologies, our technique can detect one-pixel attacks significantly faster.
The Relationship between Abdominal Diastasis and Lumbar Pain Pressure Threshold in Women Who Have Given Birth between the Ages of 30 and 45 Years—An Observational Pilot Study
Authors: González-Muñoz Ana , Pruimboom Leo , Navarro-Ledesma Santiago
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives: Current evidence confirms that the magnitude of the inter-rectus distance (IRD) is associated with the severity of abdominal pain. Furthermore, evidence exists in the literature about the impact abdominal muscles have on low back pain, lumbopelvic pain, breathing and lumbar abdominal strength; however, no studies analysing the level of association between abdominal diastasis and lumbar pain pressure threshold (PPT) exist. The aim of this study was to analyse the level of association between the rectus abdominis distance and pain pressure threshold in the lumbar spinous processes in women who have given birth between the ages of 30 and 45 years. Secondly, it was to study the level of association between the time elapsed since the last delivery and low back pain in women who have given birth between 30 and 45 years of age. Material and Methods: This was a pilot observational study in which 21 females participated. The abdominal diastasis was measured by ultrasound, the pain pressure threshold was assessed by an algometer and the pain perception by the Mc Gill questionnaire. Results: There was no significant relationship between increased abdominal distance and increased lumbopelvic pain in women who gave birth between the ages of 30 and 45 years. However, there was a correlation between the time that had elapsed since the last delivery and low back pain. Conclusions: there was a correlation between the time that had elapsed since the last delivery and low back pain. Further studies analysing factors that may perpetuate the chronicity of symptoms, such as lifestyle and intrinsic factors, are needed.
Real-World Experience of Ceftobiprole for Community- and Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia from a Stewardship Perspective
Authors: Corcione Silvia , De Benedetto Ilaria , Carlin Massimiliano , Pivetta Emanuele Emilio , Scabini Silvia , Grosso Cecilia , Shbaklo Nour , Porta Massimo , Lupia Enrico , De Rosa Francesco Giuseppe
Published: April 2024

Ceftobiprole is a fifth-generation cephalosporin approved by European and American regulatory agencies for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP). Ceftobiprole administration is useful in severe CAP as well as HAP where the potential is to save other β-lactams including carbapenems or linezolid/vancomycin in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to report the real-world evidence of ceftobiprole in patients with CAP and HAP in a single center. In this retrospective study, we included 159 patients with CAP or HAP: 105 (66%) had CAP and 54 (34%) had HAP. The median age was 70 years (IQR 60–77), the median Charlson Comorbidity Index was 5 (IQR 3–7.5) and baseline INCREMENT ESBL score was 8 (IQR 6–11). Ceftobiprole was mostly given as a combination treatment (77%) or as a carbapenem-sparing strategy (44%). There were no differences in mortality between shorter and longer duration of treatment (<7 days compared with ≥7 days (HR 1.02, C.I. 0.58–1.77, p = 0.93) or between first-line (HR 1.00, C.I. 0.46–2.17, p = 0.989) and second-line therapy. Ceftobiprole use in CAP or HAP in the real world is effective as a first- and second-line treatment as well as a carbapenem-sparing strategy. Further studies are needed to explore the full potential of ceftobiprole, including its real-world use in antimicrobial stewardship programs.
Taxonomic Diversity and Functional Traits of Soil Bacterial Communities under Radioactive Contamination: A Review
Authors: Belykh Elena , Maystrenko Tatiana , Velegzhaninov Ilya , Tavleeva Marina , Rasova Elena , Rybak Anna
Published: April 2024

Studies investigating the taxonomic diversity and structure of soil bacteria in areas with enhanced radioactive backgrounds have been ongoing for three decades. An analysis of data published from 1996 to 2024 reveals changes in the taxonomic structure of radioactively contaminated soils compared to the reference, showing that these changes are not exclusively dependent on contamination rates or pollutant compositions. High levels of radioactive exposure from external irradiation and a high radionuclide content lead to a decrease in the alpha diversity of soil bacterial communities, both in laboratory settings and environmental conditions. The effects of low or moderate exposure are not consistently pronounced or unidirectional. Functional differences among taxonomic groups that dominate in contaminated soil indicate a variety of adaptation strategies. Bacteria identified as multiple-stress tolerant; exhibiting tolerance to metals and antibiotics; producing antioxidant enzymes, low-molecular antioxidants, and radioprotectors; participating in redox reactions; and possessing thermophilic characteristics play a significant role. Changes in the taxonomic and functional structure, resulting from increased soil radionuclide content, are influenced by the combined effects of ionizing radiation, the chemical toxicity of radionuclides and co-contaminants, as well as the physical and chemical properties of the soil and the initial bacterial community composition. Currently, the quantification of the differential contributions of these factors based on the existing published studies presents a challenge.
Enhancing the Startup Rate of Microbial Methanogenic Systems through the Synergy of β-lactam Antibiotics and Electrolytic Cells
Authors: Zhe Yuting , Cheng Huaigang , Cheng Fangqin , Song Huiping , Pan Zihe
Published: April 2024

The slow startup and suboptimal efficiency of microbial carbon sequestration and methane-production systems have not been fully resolved despite their contribution to sustainable energy production and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. These systems often grapple with persistent hurdles, including interference from miscellaneous bacteria and the slow enrichment of methanogens. To address these issues, this paper examines the synergistic effect of coupling β-lactam antibiotics with an electrolytic cell on the methanogenic process. The results indicated that β-lactam antibiotics exhibited inhibitory effects on Campylobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria (two types of miscellaneous bacteria), reducing their relative abundance by 53.03% and 87.78%, respectively. Nevertheless, it also resulted in a decrease in hydrogenogens and hindered the CO2 reduction pathway. When coupled with an electrolytic cell, sufficient electrons were supplied for CO2 reduction to compensate for the hydrogen deficiency, effectively mitigating the side effects of antibiotics. Consequently, a substantial improvement in methane production was observed, reaching 0.57 mL·L−1·d−1, exemplifying a remarkable 6.3-fold increase over the control group. This discovery reinforces the efficiency of methanogen enrichment and enhances methane-production levels.
Leveraging Domain Expertise in Machine Learning for Critical Metal Prospecting in the Oslo Rift: A Case Study for Fe-Ti-P-Rare Earth Element Mineralization
Authors: Wang Ying , Coint Nolwenn , Mansur Eduardo Teixeira , Acosta-Gongora Pedro , Miranda Ana Carolina Rodrigues , Nasuti Aziz , Baranwal Vikas Chand
Published: April 2024

Global demand for critical raw materials, including phosphorus (P) and rare earth elements (REEs), is on the rise. The south part of Norway, with a particular focus on the Southern Oslo Rift region, is a promising reservoir of Fe-Ti-P-REE resources associated with magmatic systems. Confronting challenges in mineral exploration within these systems, notably the absence of alteration haloes and distal footprints, we have explored alternative methodologies. In this study, we combine machine learning with geological expertise, aiming to identify prospective areas for critical metal prospecting. Our workflow involves processing over 400 rock samples to create training datasets for mineralization and non-mineralization, employing an intuitive sampling strategy to overcome an imbalanced sample ratio. Additionally, we convert airborne magnetic, radiometric, and topographic maps into machine learning-friendly features, with a keen focus on incorporating domain knowledge into these data preparations. Within a binary classification framework, we evaluate two commonly used classifiers: a random forest (RF) and support vector machine (SVM). Our analysis shows that the RF model outperforms the SVM model. The RF model generates a predictive map, identifying approximately 0.3% of the study area as promising for mineralization. These findings align with legacy data and field visits, supporting the map’s potential to guide future surveys.
Distinction and Quantification of Noncovalent Dispersive and Hydrophobic Effects
Authors: Schneider Hans-Jörg
Published: April 2024

The possibilities of comparing computational results of noncovalent interactions with experimental data are discussed, first with respect to intramolecular interactions. For these a variety of experimental data such as heats of formation, crystal sublimation heats, comparison with energy minimized structures, and spectroscopic data are available, but until now largely have not found widespread application. Early force field and QM/MP2 calculations have already shown that the sublimation heats of hydrocarbons can be predicted with an accuracy of ±1%. Intermolecular interactions in solution or the gas phase are always accompanied by difficult to compute entropic contributions, like all associations between molecules. Experimentally observed T∆S values contribute 10% to 80% of the total ∆G, depending on interaction mechanisms within the complexes, such as, e.g., hydrogen bonding and ion pairing. Free energies ∆G derived from equilibrium measurements in solution allow us to define binding increments ∆∆G, which are additive and transferable to a variety of supramolecular complexes. Data from more than 90 equilibrium measurements of porphyrin receptors in water indicate that small alkanes do not bind to the hydrophobic flat surfaces within a measuring limit of ∆G = ±0.5 kJ/mol, and that 20 functions bearing heteroatoms show associations by dispersive interactions with up to ∆G = 8 kJ/mol, roughly as a function of their polarizability. Aromatic systems display size-dependent affinities ∆G as a linear function of the number of π-electrons.
Cobalt/Iron Bimetallic Biochar Composites for Lead(II) Adsorption: Mechanism and Remediation Performance
Authors: Zhao Jingyu , Qin Yuhong , Liu Yue , Shi Yunlong , Lin Qiang , Cai Miao , Jia Zhenya , Yu Changjiang , Shang Anqi , Fei Yuxiao , Zhang Jiayi
Published: April 2024

The performance of nano-zero-valent iron for heavy metal remediation can be enhanced via incorporation into bimetallic carbon composites. However, few economical and green approaches are available for preparing bimetallic composite materials. In this study, novel Co/Fe bimetallic biochar composites (BC@Co/Fe-X, where X = 5 or 10 represents the CoCl2 concentration of 0.05 or 0.1 mol L−1) were prepared for the adsorption of Pb2+. The effect of the concentration of cross-linked metal ions on Pb2+ adsorption was investigated, with the composite prepared using 0.05 mol L−1 Co2+ (BC@Co/Fe-5) exhibiting the highest adsorption performance. Various factors, including the adsorption period, Pb2+ concentration, and pH, affected the adsorption of Pb2+ by BC@Co/Fe-5. Further characterisation of BC@Co/Fe-5 before and after Pb2+ adsorption using methods such as X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy suggested that the Pb2+ adsorption mechanism involved (i) Pb2+ reduction to Pb0 by Co/Fe, (ii) Co/Fe corrosion to generate Fe2+ and fix Pb2+ in the form of PbO, and (iii) Pb2+ adsorption by Co/Fe biochar. Notably, BC@Co/Fe-5 exhibited excellent remediation performance in simulated Pb2+-contaminated water and soil with good recyclability.
Multi-Omics Study on Molecular Mechanisms of Single-Atom Fe-Doped Two-Dimensional Conjugated Phthalocyanine Framework for Photocatalytic Antibacterial Performance
Authors: Diao Shihong , Duan Yixin , Wang Mengying , Feng Yuanjiao , Miao Hong , Zhao Yongju
Published: April 2024

Currently, photocatalysis of the two-dimensional (2D) conjugated phthalocyanine framework with a single Fe atom (CPF-Fe) has shown efficient photocatalytic activities for the removal of harmful effluents and antibacterial activity. Their photocatalytic mechanisms are dependent on the redox reaction—which is led by the active species generated from the photocatalytic process. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanism of CPF-Fe antimicrobial activity has not been sufficiently explored. In this study, we successfully synthesized CPF-Fe with great broad-spectrum antibacterial properties under visible light and used it as an antibacterial agent. The molecular mechanism of CPF-Fe against Escherichia coli and Salmonella enteritidis was explored through multi-omics analyses (transcriptomics and metabolomics correlation analyses). The results showed that CPF-Fe not only led to the oxidative stress of bacteria by generating large amounts of h+ and ROS but also caused failure in the synthesis of bacterial cell wall components as well as an osmotic pressure imbalance by disrupting glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, and TCA cycle pathways. More surprisingly, CPF-Fe could disrupt the metabolism of amino acids and nucleic acids, as well as inhibit their energy metabolism, resulting in the death of bacterial cells. The research further revealed the antibacterial mechanism of CPF-Fe from a molecular perspective, providing a theoretical basis for the application of CPF-Fe photocatalytic antibacterial nanomaterials.
Construction of 3D-Printed Sodium Alginate/Chitosan/Halloysite Nanotube Composites as Adsorbents of Methylene Blue
Authors: Luo Jinjie , Ji Anping , Xia Guofeng , Liu Lizi , Yan Juan
Published: April 2024

In this study, sodium alginate/chitosan/halloysite nanotube composites were prepared by three-dimensional printing and characterized in terms of morphology, viscosity, thermal properties, and methylene blue (MB) adsorption performance. The high specific surface area and extensively microporous structure of these composites allowed for effective MB removal from wastewater; specifically, a removal efficiency of 80% was obtained after a 60 min treatment at an adsorbent loading of 1 g L−1 and an MB concentration of 80 mg L−1, while the maximum MB adsorption capacity equaled 376.3 mg g−1. Adsorption kinetics and isotherms were well described by quasi-second-order and Langmuir models, respectively. The composites largely retained their adsorption performance after five adsorption–desorption cycles and were concluded to hold great promise for MB removal from wastewater.
Metformin Loaded Zein Polymeric Nanoparticles to Augment Antitumor Activity against Ehrlich Carcinoma via Activation of AMPK Pathway: D-Optimal Design Optimization, In Vitro Characterization, and In Vivo Study
Authors: Elmahboub Yasmina , Albash Rofida , Magdy William Mira , Rayan Amal H. , Hamed Najat O. , Ousman Mona S. , Raslan Nahed A , Mosallam Shaimaa
Published: April 2024

Metformin (MET), an antidiabetic drug, is emerging as a promising anticancer agent. This study was initiated to investigate the antitumor effects and potential molecular targets of MET in mice bearing solid Ehrlich carcinoma (SEC) as a model of breast cancer (BC) and to explore the potential of zein nanoparticles (ZNs) as a carrier for improving the anticancer effect of MET. ZNs were fabricated through ethanol injection followed by probe sonication method. The optimum ZN formulation (ZN8) was spherical and contained 5 mg zein and 30 mg sodium deoxycholate with a small particle size and high entrapment efficiency percentage and zeta potential. A stability study showed that ZN8 was stable for up to three months. In vitro release profiles proved the sustained effect of ZN8 compared to the MET solution. Treatment of SEC-bearing mice with ZN8 produced a more pronounced anticancer effect which was mediated by upregulation of P53 and miRNA-543 as well as downregulation of NF-κB and miRNA-191-5p gene expression. Furthermore, ZN8 produced a marked elevation in pAMPK and caspase-3 levels as well as a significant decrease in cyclin D1, COX-2, and PGE2 levels. The acquired findings verified the potency of MET-loaded ZNs as a treatment approach for BC.
Submicronic-Scale Mechanochemical Characterization of Oxygen-Enriched Materials
Authors: Garnier Marie , Lesniewska Eric , Optasanu Virgil , Guelorget Bruno , Berger Pascal , Lavisse Luc , François Manuel , Custovic Irma , Pocholle Nicolas , Bourillot Eric
Published: April 2024

Conventional techniques that measure the concentration of light elements in metallic materials lack high-resolution performance due to their intrinsic limitation of sensitivity. In that context, scanning microwave microscopy has the potential to significantly enhance the quantification of element distribution due to its ability to perform a tomographic investigation of the sample. Scanning microwave microscopy associates the local electromagnetic measurement and the nanoscale resolution of an atomic force microscope. This technique allows the simultaneous characterization of oxygen concentration as well as local mechanical properties by microwave phase shift and amplitude signal, respectively. The technique was calibrated by comparison with nuclear reaction analysis and nanoindentation measurement. We demonstrated the reliability of the scanning microwave technique by studying thin oxygen-enriched layers on a Ti-6Al-4V alloy. This innovative approach opens novel possibilities for the indirect quantification of light chemical element diffusion in metallic materials. This technique is applicable to the control and optimization of industrial processes.
Design and Experimental Demonstration of an Atmospheric Turbulence Simulation System for Free-Space Optical Communication
Authors: Li Lin , Ji Ning , Wu Zhiyong , Wu Jiabin
Published: April 2024

In this paper, the design of an atmospheric turbulence simulation system for free-space optical (FSO) communication is proposed. The system can accurately simulate repeatable atmospheric turbulent fading channels. It has a dynamic execution range of 30 dB with an execution rate of 1 MHz. The execution accuracy of the system is higher than 0.1 dB. In addition, the reliable TCP/IP protocol is used for communication, which ensures the convenience and versatility of the system. Experiments are carried out to investigate the performance of the system, and the results prove its superiority. Hence, the atmospheric turbulence simulation system can effectively simulate the influence of atmospheric turbulence channels on FSO communication systems.
Evidence for Reductions in Physical and Chemical Plant Defense Traits in Island Flora
Authors: Freedman Micah G. , Long Randall W. , Ramírez Santiago R. , Strauss Sharon Y.
Published: April 2024

Reduced defense against large herbivores has been suggested to be part of the “island syndrome” in plants. However, empirical evidence for this pattern is mixed. In this paper, we present two studies that compare putative physical and chemical defense traits from plants on the California Channel Islands and nearby mainland based on sampling of both field and common garden plants. In the first study, we focus on five pairs of woody shrubs from three island and three mainland locations and find evidence for increased leaf area, decreased marginal leaf spines, and decreased concentrations of cyanogenic glycosides in island plants. We observed similar increases in leaf area and decreases in defense traits when comparing island and mainland genotypes grown together in botanic gardens, suggesting that trait differences are not solely driven by abiotic differences between island and mainland sites. In the second study, we conducted a common garden experiment with a perennial herb—Stachys bullata (Lamiaceae)—collected from two island and four mainland locations. Compared to their mainland relatives, island genotypes show highly reduced glandular trichomes and a nearly 100-fold reduction in mono- and sesquiterpene compounds from leaf surfaces. Island genotypes also had significantly higher specific leaf area, somewhat lower rates of gas exchange, and greater aboveground biomass than mainland genotypes across two years of study, potentially reflecting a broader shift in growth habit. Together, our results provide evidence for reduced expression of putative defense traits in island plants, though these results may reflect adaptation to both biotic (i.e., the historical absence of large herbivores) and climatic conditions on islands.
Exploring the Feasibility and Performance of Perovskite/Antimony Selenide Four-Terminal Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Menon Harigovind , Amin Al , Duan Xiaomeng , Vijayaraghavan S. N. , Wall Jacob , Xiang Wenjun , Khawaja Kausar Ali , Yan Feng
Published: April 2024

The tandem solar cell presents a potential solution to surpass the Shockley–Queisser limit observed in single-junction solar cells. However, creating a tandem device that is both cost-effective and highly efficient poses a significant challenge. In this study, we present proof of concept for a four-terminal (4T) tandem solar cell utilizing a wide bandgap (1.6–1.8 eV) perovskite top cell and a narrow bandgap (1.2 eV) antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) bottom cell. Using a one-dimensional (1D) solar cell capacitance simulator (SCAPS), our calculations indicate the feasibility of this architecture, projecting a simulated device performance of 23% for the perovskite/Sb2Se3 4T tandem device. To validate this, we fabricated two wide bandgap semitransparent perovskite cells with bandgaps of 1.6 eV and 1.77 eV, respectively. These were then mechanically stacked with a narrow bandgap antimony selenide (1.2 eV) to create a tandem structure, resulting in experimental efficiencies exceeding 15%. The obtained results demonstrate promising device performance, showcasing the potential of combining perovskite top cells with the emerging, earth-abundant antimony selenide thin film solar technology to enhance overall device efficiency.