bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sub-Regional Biophysical and Monetary Evaluation of Ecosystem Services: An Experimental Spatial Planning Implementation
Authors: Richiedei Anna , Giuliani Marialaura , Pezzagno Michele
Published: January 2025

Preserving soil is crucial for addressing the key challenges of the new millennium, like climate change and biodiversity loss. Spatial planning plays a pivotal role in stopping soil consumption and degradation, thereby safeguarding soils that provide valuable ecosystem services. With the advent of the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting by the UN, countries are developing a shared protocol for the biophysical and monetary quantification of ecosystem services. However, downscaling efforts are necessary and must be conditioned by the national context, policies, economic dynamics, and data availability. Therefore, this research proposes a soil quality assessment methodology based on its ecosystem value at the sub-regional level in northern Italy, building upon national guidelines. This study includes modeling and mapping outputs involving six ecosystem services through eight biophysical indicators and the monetary quantification of these services. Both assessments have been conducted over two time periods to highlight the impacts of land cover transformation.
Needle Radiofrequency Combined with Topical Exosome Therapy for Moderate to Severe Acne
Authors: Wan Jovian , Yoon Song Eun , Wong Sky , Hidajat Inneke Jane , Tanojo Henry , Suwanchinda Atchima , Yi Kyu-Ho
Published: January 2025

Objective: This case series aims to evaluate the efficacy, patient satisfaction, and safety of combined needle radiofrequency (RF) and topical exosome therapy for moderate to severe acne. Methods: This study involved 22 patients (12 females and 10 males, ages 18–35) with moderate to severe acne who underwent combined needle RF and topical exosome (Xomage, Zishel Bio Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea) treatments. Each patient completed between 6 and 10 sessions, conducted weekly over three-week intervals. Acne severity was assessed using the Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) scale, while patient satisfaction was measured on a 5-point Likert scale. Clinical photographs were taken at baseline and after the final treatment session. Results: All patients showed improvement in acne severity with a mean decrease in IGA score of 2.5 points from baseline to the final assessment. Patient satisfaction was high, with the majority expressing satisfaction in skin texture and acne reduction. Conclusion: Needle RF combined with topical exosome therapy appears to be an effective treatment for reducing acne lesions and improving skin quality, demonstrating a strong safety profile and high patient satisfaction.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Kaolinite Group Minerals
Authors: Koroleva Tatiana , Pokidko Boris , Morozov Ivan , Nesterenko Anastasia , Kortunkova Sofya , Chernov Mikhail , Ksenofontov Dmitry , Krupskaya Victoria
Published: January 2025

Synthetic alumosilicates are used in many industrial applications, and the synthesis of clay minerals under different conditions allows us to understand the conditions of their formation. This study examined the impact of varying silica precursors, pH conditions and synthesis durations. Synthetic kaolinite group mineral analogues were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy. Additionally, the crystallinity index was calculated. The impact of using different silica sources on the structural features of synthetic kaolinite group analogues was revealed. The use of a Nanosil precursor resulted in the formation of highly crystalline kaolinite. The most significant alterations in the course of synthesis were observed at different pH values. The formation of various synthetic analogues of minerals from the kaolinite group was observed: at a high pH, the formation of halloysite with a small admixture of kaolinite was observed. Conversely, the synthesis resulted in the formation of ordered kaolinite at a low pH. The crystallinity index of the resulting synthesized kaolinite analogues rises as the synthesis duration increases, while the quantity of non-crystallized material decreases. The changes in the crystallinity of kaolinite when using different silica precursors are related to the different homogenization of the material that occurs at the stage of alumosilica gel formation.
The Effects of Light Crystal Display 3D Printers, Storage Time and Steam Sterilization on the Dimensional Stability of a Photopolymer Resin for Surgical Guides: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Pranno Nicola , Franchina Alessio , De Angelis Francesca , Bossù Maurizio , Salucci Alessandro , Brauner Edoardo , Cristalli Maria Paola , La Monaca Gerardo
Published: January 2025

Background: Implant surgical guides manufactured in-house using 3D printing technology are widely used in clinical practice to translate virtual planning to the operative field. Aim: The present in vitro study investigated the dimensional changes of 3D surgical guides printed in-house using Shining 3D surgical guide resin (SG01). Materials and methods: Five test bodies, varying in shape and dimensions, were designed using computer-aided design (CAD) software and manufactured using three different Light Crystal Display (LCD) 3D printers (AccuFab-L4D, Elegoo Mars Pro 3, and Zortrax Inspire). Specific printing and post-processing parameters for the SG01 resin were set to produce 25 test bodies (5 of each shape) from each of the three printers, resulting in a total of 75 samples. The dimensional changes were evaluated using a digital calliper at four different time points: immediately after printing (T0), one month after storage (T1), immediately after sterilization (T2), and one month after sterilization (T3). Results: All the test bodies showed deviations from the overall CAD reference value of 12.25 mm after printing and post-processing (T0) and following steam sterilization (T2). Similar trends were observed for the effect of storage times at T1 and T3. The AccuFab prints demonstrated a better dimensional stability than the Elegoo and Zortrax samples. Conclusions: The LCD 3D printers, sterilization, and storage times influenced the dimensional stability of the test bodies made with SGO1 resin.
Excellent Strength–Impact Toughness Combination of Heterostructured Metastable Fe-Rich Medium-Entropy Alloy
Authors: Panov Dmitrii , Chernichenko Ruslan , Naumov Stanislav , Kudryavtsev Egor , Pertcev Alexey , Stepanov Nikita , Zherebtsov Sergey , Salishchev Gennady
Published: January 2025

The effect of a heterogeneous structure obtained via cold rotary swaging (CRS) and post-deformation annealing (PDA) on the dynamic mechanical properties of a non-equiatomic 49.5Fe-30Mn-10Co-10Cr-0.5C (at.%) medium-entropy alloy at room and cryogenic temperatures was studied. CRS to a reduction of 92% and subsequent PDA at 500–600 °C developed a heterogeneous structure consisting of a twinned γ-matrix and dislocation-free γ-grains in the rod core and an ultrafine-grained microstructure of γ-phase at the rod edge. Therefore, the maximum stress (σm) value increased. Charpy V-notch impact toughness (KCV) decreased after CRS to a reduction of 18% and stabilized after further straining. However, the contribution of the crack initiation energy consumption (KCVi) increased, while the crack propagation energy consumption (KCVP) decreased. PDA resulted in increases in KCVi and KCVP. A ductile-to-brittle transition occurred from −90 °C to −190 °C. Cryogenic Charpy impact testing of the heterostructured material revealed inflections on impact load–deflection curves. The phenomenon contributed to an increase in KCVP, providing a longer crack propagation path. The heterostructured material possessed an excellent σm-KCV combination in the temperature range between −90 °C and +20 °C.
Deep Learning-Enabled Visual Inspection of Gap Spacing in High-Precision Equipment: A Comparative Study
Authors: Li Xiuling , Li Fusheng , Yang Huan , Wang Peng
Published: January 2025

In the realm of industrial quality control, visual inspection plays a pivotal role in ensuring product precision and consistency. Moreover, it enables non-contact inspection, preventing the products from potential damage, and timely monitoring capabilities facilitate quick decision making. However, traditional methods, such as manual inspection using feeler gauges, are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to human error. To address these limitations, this study proposes a deep learning-based visual inspection system for measuring gap spacing in high-precision equipment. Utilizing the DeepLSD algorithm, the system integrates traditional and deep learning techniques to enhance line segment detection, resulting in more robust and accurate inspection outcomes. Key performance improvements were realized, with the proposed system being a piece of deep learning-enabled high-precision mobile equipment for inspecting gap spacing in real-time. Through a comparative analysis with the traditional feeler gauge method, the proposed system demonstrated significant improvements in inspection time, accuracy, and user experience, while reducing workload. Experimental results validate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed approach, highlighting its potential for widespread application in industrial quality inspection activities.
The Role of Resolvin D1 in the Differential Diagnosis of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Acute Pancreatitis: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Pekmezci Yasemin , Ergun Sefa , Turgut Basar Can , Dumur Seyma , Sayili Ugurcan , Uzun Hafize , Pekmezci Salih , Velidedeoglu Mehmet
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive malignancy characterized by a dense desmoplastic stroma with a poor prognosis. The aim of this study was to investigate whether resolvin (Rv) D1 could be used as a potential serum biomarker to discriminate between PDAC and acute pancreatitis (AP). Materials and Methods: In total, 67 patients were enrolled in the present study, including 21 patients with resectable PDAC, 23 patients with metastatic PDAC, 23 patients with AP, and a control group of 21 healthy individuals. RvD1 levels of PDAC patients were also analyzed through ELISA at the 6th postoperative month. Results: The mean RvD1 was 1169.24 ± 285.99 in the control group, 885.04 ± 134.25 in the AP group, 728.57 ± 140.1 in the PDAC group, and 670.09 ± 105.6 in the metastatic pancreatic cancer (PC) group. RvD1 was significantly lower in PDAC and metastatic PC groups compared to controls and patients with AP, while it was significantly lower in patients with AP compared to the control groups. Postoperative RvD1 levels of patients with PDAC were significantly higher than preoperative levels (728.57 ± 140.1 vs. 885.43 ± 275.57). In the ROC analysis, when the cut-off value for serum RvD1 level was 825 ng/L, it was found to predict PDAC from metastatic PC with 84.1% sensitivity and 81.8% specificity. Conclusions: Serum RvD1 is a new biomarker for the detection of PDAC. Serum RvD1 may provide an important diagnostic contribution in clinical practice to predict PDAC. Serum RvD1 levels were found to be predictive with high sensitivity and specificity in differentiating PDAC from metastatic PC. However, it was concluded that serum RvD1 levels cannot be used as a detection marker to differentiate PDAC from AP. RvD1 could be a representative agent of a new class of drugs to be proposed for innovative treatment of AP and PDAC. Our future study will investigate whether RvD1 can be a marker to differentiate from chronic pancreatitis.
Clinical Analysis of Congenital Duodenal Obstruction and the Role of Annular Pancreas
Authors: Taşdemir Ümit , Demirci Oya
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Congenital duodenal obstruction (CDO) is a very rare anomaly with an incidence of 1 in 5000–10,000 live births. Annular pancreas is one of the reasons for CDO and is defined as the pancreatic tissue encircling the duodenum. The exact cause of annular pancreas remains unclear. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on all prenatally diagnosed cases of CDO, with the diagnoses and ethiology confirmed by surgery after birth from 1 January 2018 to 1 January 2024. The cases suspected of having CDO in their fetuses underwent ultrasound evaluations on a weekly or biweekly basis. The cohort was divided into two groups, “CDO with annular pancreas” and “CDO without annular pancreas”, in order to compare the clinical characteristics and outcomes. Results: A total of 34 cases of CDO were detected prenatally, with 30 of these cases being confirmed through postnatal surgical interventions. The underlying ethiology was duodenal atresia in 15 cases (50%), duodenal web in 2 cases (6.6%) and annular pancreas in 13 cases (43.3%). All cases had a dilated stomach and double bubble sign. Polyhydramnios was identified in all cases except for one. Three cases were terminated and intrauterine demise was observed in one case. Nine of the cases (33%) died in the postnatal period. In 19 cases (55.9%), CDO was associated with chromosomal abnormalities. Chromosomal abnormalities were significantly more common in the cases of CDO with annular pancreas (p = 0.033). Conclusions: The prenatal diagnosis of CDO is mostly based on findings of double bubble and polyhydramnios. An annular pancreas, although rare, is an important cause of neonatal duodenal obstruction. An accurate diagnosis is usually performed during a laparotomy. Given the higher rates of chromosomal abnormalities in cases of annular pancreas, it is clear that more reliable markers or imaging techniques are needed to detect the ethiology of CDO in the prenatal period.
Long-Term Outcomes of Intentional Head Trauma in Infants: A Comprehensive Follow-Up of Medical, Developmental, Psychological, and Legal Perspectives
Authors: Vatansever Göksel , Özalp Akın Ezgi , Bingöl Kızıltunç Pınar , Öztop Didem Behice , Karabağ Kezban , Topçu Seda , Ulukol Betül
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to determine the initial clinical characteristics of children diagnosed with intentional head trauma (IHT) to obtain information about the long-term developmental, psychological, and psychosocial status of these children, to detect delayed sequelae, and to find out information about their judicial processes. Materials and Methods: Fourteen children who were followed up with the diagnosis of IHT in the Ankara Child Protection Unit between 2010 and 2021 were included in the study. These cases were evaluated in terms of physical, developmental, psychological, and visual findings. A complete physical examination was performed on the patients and their anthropometric measurements were taken. Anterior and posterior segment evaluations and visual field examinations were conducted in the visual assessment. The Expanded Guide for Monitoring Child Development and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale Third Edition was used in the developmental assessment. A psychiatric evaluation was performed using the Ankara Developmental Screening Inventory, Crowell observation, Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia Form, and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. Results: Of the patients diagnosed with IHT, 71.4% were male and the mean age was 8.39 ± 5.86 (1.27–22.30; IQR: 3.55–11.96) months. In the long-term follow-up, cerebral palsy was detected in three of the children, epilepsy in one, optic atrophy and deviation due to this in one, and deviation due to brain trauma in one. Motor delay was detected in 50.0% of the patients, language delay in 37.5%, cognitive delay in 37.5%, and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder in 25%. It was observed that the people who caused the injuries of two patients were punished. Conclusions: Children diagnosed with IHT should be monitored with transdisciplinary methods in terms of physical and mental health throughout childhood, starting from the first intervention. Awareness of IHT diagnosis should be increased with training in social service approaches and judicial authorities providing services for child neglect and abuse.
Development of a Finite Element Model for the HAZ Temperature Field in Longitudinal Welding of Pipeline Steel
Authors: Wang Zhixing , Shang Chengjia , Wang Xuelin
Published: January 2025

In this study, a novel hybrid heat source model was developed to simulate the welding temperature field in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) of X80 pipeline steel. This model replicates welding conditions with high accuracy and allows flexible three-dimensional adjustments to suit various scenarios. Its development involved the innovative integration of microstructural crystallography information with a multi-scale calibration and validation methodology. The methodology focused on three critical aspects: the weld interface morphology, the location of the Ac1 temperature, and the size of prior austenite grains (PAG). The morphology of the weld interface was calibrated to align closely with experimental observations. The model’s prediction of the Ac1 location in actual welded joints exhibited a deviation of less than ±0.3 mm. Furthermore, comparisons of reconstructed PAG sizes between thermal simulation samples and actual HAZ samples revealed minimal discrepancies (5 μm). Validation results confirmed that the calibrated model accurately describes the welding temperature field, with reconstructed PAG size differences between simulation and experimental results being less than 9 μm. These findings validate the accuracy of the calibrated model in predicting welding temperature fields. This research introduces a novel framework for the development of heat source models, offering a robust foundation for improving welding performance and controlling microstructure in different regions during the welding process of high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel.
Diversity and Distribution of Hydrocarbon-Degrading Genes in the Cold Seeps from the Mediterranean and Caspian Seas
Authors: Warkhade Yogita , Schaerer Laura G. , Bigcraft Isaac , Hazen Terry C. , Techtmann Stephen M.
Published: January 2025

Marine cold seeps are unique ecological niches characterized by the emergence of hydrocarbons, including methane, which fosters diverse microbial communities. This study investigates the diversity and distribution of hydrocarbon-degrading genes and organisms in sediments from the Caspian and Mediterranean Seas, utilizing 16S rRNA and metagenomic sequencing to elucidate microbial community structure and functional potential. Our findings reveal distinct differences in hydrocarbon degrading gene profiles between the two seas, with pathways for aerobic and anaerobic hydrocarbon degradation co-existing in sediments from both basins. Aerobic pathways predominate in the surface sediments of the Mediterranean Sea, while anaerobic pathways are favored in the surface sediments of the anoxic Caspian Sea. Additionally, sediment depths significantly influence microbial diversity, with variations in gene abundance and community composition observed at different depths. Aerobic hydrocarbon-degrading genes decrease in diversity with depth in the Mediterranean Sea, whereas the diversity of aerobic hydrocarbon-degrading genes increases with depth in the Caspian Sea. These results enhance our understanding of microbial ecology in cold seep environments and have implications for bioremediation practices targeting hydrocarbon pollutants in marine ecosystems.
Nioboixiolite-(□),(Nb0.8□0.2)4+O2, a New Mineral Species from the Bayan Obo World-Class REE-Fe-Nb Deposit, Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Li Yike , Ke Changhui , Wang Denghong , Peng Zidong , Zhao Yonggang , Li Ruiping , Chen Zhenyu , Li Guowu , Yu Hong , Zhang Li , Guo Bin , Gao Yupu
Published: January 2025

Nioboixiolite-(□) is a new mineral found in a carbonatite sill from the Bayan Obo mine, Baotou City, Inner Mongolia, China. It occurs as anhedral to subhedral grains (100 to 500 μm in diameter) that are disseminated in carbonatite rock composed of dolomite, calcite, magnetite, apatite, biotite, actionlike, zircon, and columbite-(Fe). Most of these grains are highly serrated, with numerous inclusions of columbite-(Fe). The mineral is gray to deep black in color; is opaque, with a semi-metallic luster; has a black streak; and is brittle, with an uneven conchoidal splintery. The Mohs hardness is 6–6½, and the calculated density is 6.05 g/cm3. The reflection color is gray with a blue tone, and there is no double reflection color. The measured reflectivity of nioboixiolite-(□) is about 10.6%~12.1%, close to that of ixiolite (11%–13%). Nioboixiolite-(□) is non-fluorescent under 254 nm (short-wave) and 366 nm (long-wave) ultraviolet light. The average chemical analysis results (wt.%) of twelve electron microprobe analyses are F 0.01, MnO 0.12, MgO 0.15, BaO 0.62, PbO 0.91, SrO 1.49, CaO 2.76, Al2O3 0.01, TREE2O3 1.58, Fe2O3 3.57, ThO2 0.11, SiO2 1.69, TiO2 3.68, Ta2O5 13.95, Nb2O5 47.04, and UO3 21.56, with a total of 99.25. The simplified formula is [Nb5+, Ta5+,Ti4+, Fe3+,□,]O2. X-ray diffraction data show that nioboixiolite-(□) is orthorhombic, belonging to the space group Pbcn (#60). The refined unit cell parameters are a = 4.7071(5) Å, b = 5.7097(7) Å, c = 5.1111(6) Å, V = 138.31(3), and β = 90(1) °Å3 with Z = 4. In the crystal structure of nioboixiolite-(□), all cations occupy a single M1 site. In these minerals, edge-sharing M1O6 octahedra form chains along the c direction. In this direction, the chains are connected with each other via common vertices of the octahedra. The strongest measured X-ray powder diffraction lines are [d in Å, (I/I0), (hkl)]: 3.662(20) (110), 2.975(100) (111), 2.501(20) (021), 1.770(20) (122), 1.458(20) (023). A type specimen was deposited in the Geological Museum of China with catalogue number M16118, No. 15, Yangrou Hutong, Xisi, Beijing 100031, People’s Republic of China.
Discernible Orientation for Tortuosity During Oxidative Precipitation of Fe(II) in Porous Media: Laboratory Experiment and Micro-CT Imaging
Authors: Cao Wenran , Strounina Ekaterina , Hofmann Harald , Scheuermann Alexander
Published: January 2025

In the mixing zone, where submarine groundwater carrying ferrous iron [Fe(II)] meets seawater with dissolved oxygen (DO), the oxidative precipitation of Fe(II) occurs at the pore scale (nm~μm), and the resulting Fe precipitation significantly influences the seepage properties at the Darcy scale (cm~m). Previous studies have presented a challenge in upscaling fluid dynamics from a small scale to a large scale, thereby constraining our understanding of the spatiotemporal variations in flow paths as porous media evolve. To address this limitation, this study simulated subsurface mixing by injecting Fe(II)-rich freshwater into a DO-rich saltwater flow within a custom-designed syringe packed with glass beads. Micro-computed tomography imaging at the representative elementary volume scale was utilized to track the development of Fe precipitates over time and space. Experimental observations revealed three distinct stages of Fe hydroxides and their effects on the flow dynamics. Initially, hydrous Fe precipitates were characterized by a low density and exhibited mobility, allowing temporarily clogged pathways to intermittently reopen. As precipitation progressed, the Fe precipitates accumulated, forming interparticle bonding structures that redirected the flow to bypass clogged pores and facilitated precipitate flushing near the syringe wall. In the final stage, a notable reduction in the macroscopic capillary number from 3.0 to 0.05 indicated a transition from a viscous- to capillary-dominated flow, which led to the construction of ramified, tortuous flow channels. This study highlights the critical role of high-resolution imaging techniques in bridging the gap between pore-scale and continuum-scale analyses of multiphase flows in hydrogeochemical processes, offering valuable insights into the complex groundwater–seawater mixing.
Design and Implementation of a Simulation Framework for a Bio–Neural Dust System
Authors: Dambri Oussama Abderrahmane , Azarnoush Arash , Makrakis Dimitrios , Levesque Gabriel , Witter Maja , Hafid Abdelhakim Senhaji
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the development of a computer simulation framework, designed as a cost–effective and technically efficient alternative to experimental studies. The framework focuses on the Bio–Neural Dust System proposed in our previous works, which consists of two components: a light–emitting bio–nanosensor and an opsin–expressing genetically modified neuron. This innovative system holds significant potential for applications in neuroscience and biotechnology research. Programmed in Python, the framework provides researchers with a virtual tool to test and evaluate the Bio–Neural Dust System, enabling the prediction of outcomes for future in vivo experiments. This approach not only conserves resources, but also offers scientists a flexible and accessible means to investigate the complex interactions within the system prior to real–world applications. The framework’s adaptability and potential for diverse research applications highlight its importance in advancing the field of bio–nanotechnology.
Adaptive Particle Swarm Optimization with Landscape Learning for Global Optimization and Feature Selection
Authors: Abbal Khalil , El-Amrani Mohammed , Aoun Oussama , Benadada Youssef
Published: January 2025

Particle swarm optimization (PSO), an important solving method in the field of swarm intelligence, is recognized as one of the most effective metaheuristics for addressing optimization problems. Many adaptive strategies have been developed to improve the performance of PSO. Despite these advances, a key problem lies in defining the configuration criteria of the adaptive algorithm. This study presents an adaptive variant of PSO that relies on fitness landscape analysis, particularly via ruggedness factor estimation. Our approach involves adaptively updating the cognitive and acceleration factors based on the estimation of the ruggedness factor using a machine learning-based method and a deterministic way. We tested them on global optimization functions and the feature selection problem. The proposed method gives encouraging results, outperforming native PSO in almost all instances and remaining competitive with state-of-the-art methods.
Spheroidization of Alumina Powders for Additive Manufacturing Applications by DC Plasma Technology
Authors: Iovane Pierpaolo , Borriello Carmela , Pandolfi Giuseppe , Portofino Sabrina , De Girolamo Del Mauro Anna , Sico Giuliano , Tammaro Loredana , Fedele Nicola , Galvagno Sergio
Published: January 2025

Alumina is the most widely used oxide ceramic, and its applications are widespread in engineering and in biomedical fields. Its spheroidization was performed by a prototypal direct current (DC) thermal plasma, which was designed and installed at ENEA, investigating surface morphology, particle size distribution, crystallinity, spheroidization, and reactivity. Features such as morphology and porosity significantly influence the flowability of the powder on the printer bed and, consequently, the density of the printed parts. It has been reported that spherical powder shape is highly recommended in additive manufacturing (AM) due to its superior flowability compared to other shapes whose interaction between powder particles results in poor flowability. In this paper, the spheroidization process of alumina powders using two different DC plasma powers and two kinds of secondary gas is reported. The average value of the circularity of the powders, after plasma treatment, has always been greater than or equal to 0.8 with the degree of the spheroidization over 90% at high power. The best process parameters of the thermal plasma were properly selected to produce spherical powders suitable for AM applications, and powders with high circularity were successfully obtained. Forming, debinding, and sintering tests were performed to verify the processability and the densification of produced powders, with good results in terms of density (97%).
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Carbon Nanospheres and Their Application as Plugging Agents for Oil-Based Drilling Fluids
Authors: Lv Kaihe , Shen Haokun , Geng Yuan , Li Mei-Chun , Du Hongyan , Huang Xianbin , Sun Jinsheng
Published: January 2025

Wellbore instability caused by the invasion of drilling fluids into formations remains a significant challenge in the application of oil-based drilling fluids (ODFs). In this study, carbon nanospheres (CNSs) were synthesized using glucose as the carbon source through a microwave-assisted method. The effects of the reaction temperature, carbon source concentration, and reaction time on the particle size of CNSs were systematically investigated. The results revealed that under optimal conditions, CNSs with an average particle size of 670 nm were successfully synthesized, exhibiting high sphericity and excellent dispersibility. CNSs demonstrated stable dispersion in mineral oil when lecithin was used as a dispersant. The plugging performance of CNSs in ODFs was evaluated through low-pressure filtration and high-temperature, high-pressure (HTHP) filtration tests. After aging at 180 °C for 16 h, the addition of 2% CNSs reduced the filtration volume from 10.6 mL to 2.5 mL on standard filter paper (average pore size: 3 μm) and from 8.5 mL to 1.6 mL on microporous membranes (average pore size: 0.5 μm). Additionally, the HTHP filtration volume decreased from 73 mL to 18 mL, and the permeability of the filter cake formed during HTHP filtration was reduced from 26.5 × 10−3 mD to 1.2 × 10−3 mD. Furthermore, CNSs improved the rheological properties and emulsion stability of ODFs. With excellent compatibility and applicability, CNSs offer a promising solution for enhancing the performance of oil-based drilling fluids.
Food Group Consumption and Nutrient Intake by Breastfeeding Women: Comparison to Current Dietary Guidelines and Nutrient Recommendations
Authors: Jin Ying , Coad Jane , Brough Louise
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Optimal nutrition is essential for the health of breastfeeding women and their infants. This study aimed to assess food and nutrient intake and alignment with nutrition guidelines for breastfeeding women living in New Zealand. Methods: Seventy-six breastfeeding women were enrolled in the longitudinal Mother and Infant Nutrition Investigation study and completed a weighed four-day diet diary including supplement use at three months postpartum. The number of servings consumed for each food group were calculated based on the 2020 Eating and Activity Guidelines for New Zealand Adults. Nutrient intakes were compared to the nutrient reference values for Australia and New Zealand. Results: Overall, the percentages of women who met the recommended number of servings for fruits, vegetables, grain foods, meats and milk/milk products were 25%, 0%, 5%, 34%, and 13%, respectively. None of women met the current recommendations for all food groups. Many participants had intakes below the estimated average requirement or adequate intake and were at risk of nutrient inadequacy for vitamin E (55%), vitamin D (53%), manganese (61%), and selenium (55%). Conclusions: Breastfeeding women had a low alignment with the current dietary guidelines and were at risk of an inadequate intake of vitamin E, D, manganese, and selenium. Research to investigate the barriers and enablers of healthy food choices is needed.
Healthier Diet and Diet-Related Behaviors Are Associated with Increased Physical Activity and Reduced Sedentary Behavior Among Adolescents in Greece
Authors: Chaireti Eleftheria , Orfanos Philippos , Fotiou Anastasios , Kanavou Eleftheria , Stavrou Myrto , Richardson Clive , Kokkevi Anna , Benetou Vassiliki
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Healthy diet, regular physical activity (PA), and minimizing sedentary behavior (SB) are crucial in promoting adolescents’ health and well-being. We assessed adherence to PA and SB recommendations among a representative sample of adolescents and explored their relationship with diet and diet-related behaviors. Methods: Data from the Greek arm of the 2017/2018 international Health Behavior in School-Aged Children (HBSC) cross-sectional study were used, including a probability sample of 3357 students (47.6% boys) who were 11, 13, and 15 years old. PA, SB, consumption of food groups/beverages, and diet-related behaviors were self-reported. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify potential associations. Results: Most students failed to meet PA (83.9%) (i.e., ≥1 h of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity/day) and SB (90.2%) (i.e., ≤2 h of screen time/day) recommendations. Daily consumption of fruit and vegetables compared to consumption at ≤1 day/week was associated with increased adherence to PA recommendations (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) = 2.26, 95% Confidence Intervals (CI): 1.62–3.17 for fruit; aOR = 1.35, 95%CI: 1.00–1.82 for vegetables). Eating sweets ≤1 day/week vs. every day was associated with higher adherence to SB recommendations (aOR = 2.41, 95%CI: 1.43–4.04). Poor diet quality was related to lower adherence to PA and SB recommendations. Daily breakfast consumption vs. never and abstaining from eating at fast-food restaurants were associated with better adherence to PA and SB recommendations. Rarely eating in front of screens was associated with substantially higher odds of adhering to SB recommendations (aOR = 5.79, 95%CI: 3.67–9.14). Conclusions: Healthier diet/diet-related behaviors were associated with increased PA and reduced SB in this sample of adolescents.
Glucosyl Hesperidin Supplementation Prevents Tubulointerstitial Fibrosis and Immune Activation in Diabetic Nephropathy in Mice
Authors: Hashimoto Kotaro , Yoshida Yuki , Kamesawa Mion , Yazawa Nao , Tominaga Hikaru , Aisyah Rahmawati , Chen Siyi , Bumrungkit Chanikan , Kawamoto Seiji , Kumrungsee Thanutchaporn , Yanaka Noriyuki
Published: January 2025

Background: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a serious condition that can result in end-stage renal failure. Recent evidence has focused on the dietary effects of polyphenols on blood glucose levels and the complications of diabetes. Objectives: In this study, we investigated the protective effect of glucosyl hesperidin (G-Hes), composed of glucose and hesperidin, against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced nephropathy in mice. Methods: We used an STZ-induced diabetic mouse model to investigate the preventive effect of G-Hes on renal pathology. After G-Hes supplementation for 4 weeks, we investigated the renal gene expression profiles using DNA microarray analysis and renal histology to examine the underlying molecular mechanism. Results: G-Hes suppressed the increase in kidney weight without any change in the blood glucose levels. This study identified 511 genes whose expression levels were substantially increased during DN development but were downregulated by G-Hes supplementation. G-Hes prevented mRNA expression associated with renal tubule injury, fibrosis, and immune responses. Notably, G-Hes supplementation considerably decreased the complement component C3 at the mRNA and protein levels in the glomeruli and ameliorated glomerular and mesangial matrix expansion in diabetic nephropathy. Conclusions: G-Hes supplementation is useful in preventing tubulointerstitial fibrosis and inflammation in a mouse model of DN, without exhibiting a hypoglycemic effect.
Potential Strategies Applied by Metschnikowia bicuspidata to Survive the Immunity of Its Crustacean Hosts
Authors: Zhang Ji , Li Bingyu , Zuo Bingnan , Li Xiaodong
Published: January 2025

Metschnikowia bicuspidata is the specific pathogen for “milky disease” in the Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis), accounting for huge losses to the industry. And yet, there is no precise study describing the pathogenesis of M. bicuspidata, largely hindering the development of novel control methods against its causing diseases. Here, we compared the transcriptomes of M. bicuspidata cells collected from a control group (cultured without E. sinensis hemocytes) and a treatment group (cultured with E. sinensis hemocytes), using RNA sequencing. Through comprehensively analyzing the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), both the most regulated ones and the ones involved in crucial enriched KEGG pathways, we found that certain processes might be required for M. bicuspidata’s survival under hemocyte stress. Key genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation, fatty acid metabolism, upper glycolysis, and gluconeogenesis were upregulated, and those for β-glucan unmasking, autophagy, and cell polarity were downregulated, in the treatment group. Our results suggest that M. bicuspidata colonizes and therefore establishes an infection in E. sinensis via enhancing aerobic respiration, glucose-6-phosphate accumulation, and cell-wall masking. In addition, we applied multiple means to evaluate a series of candidate reference genes and found that PMA1 in combination with ACT1 is the most suitable choice for accurate normalization in quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) assays. Thus, we used this combination as the reference and performed qRT-PCR verification of several DEGs. It is shown that the expression trends of these tested DEGs in qRT-PCR assays are the same as those in RNA-Seq assays. This study not only provides insights into strategies facilitating M. bicuspidata’s survival within E. sinensis, initially elucidating the pathogenesis of this yeast, but also recommends a useful molecular tool regarding qRT-PCR assays in this pathogen.
Chlamydia trachomatis Serovars from the C-Complex and the B- and C-Related Complexes Are Significantly More Pathogenic than Those from the B-Complex in C3H/HeN but Not in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Pal Sukumar , Carmichael Jennifer R. , Tifrea Delia F. , Tatarenkova Olga , de la Maza Luis M.
Published: January 2025

Studies in humans indicate that certain Chlamydia trachomatis serovars are more pathogenic than others. Specifically, several studies concluded that serovars from the C-complex are more pathogenic than those from the B-complex, although there are reports that do not support this finding. To investigate these results in an animal model, the eight genitourinary C. trachomatis serovars were tested in two strains of mice: C3H/HeN and BALB/c. These two strains of mice were investigated because C3H/HeN is more susceptible to Chlamydia muridarum infections than BALB/c, indicative of differences in their immunogenetic background. Mice were infected transcervically with 105 inclusion forming units of each of the C. trachomatis serovars, and vaginal cultures were collected. To determine the pathogenicity and its impact on fertility, at week seven post-infection, female mice were caged with male mice. In the C3H/HeN mice, significant differences in vaginal shedding and fertility were observed between serovars from the B-complex (D and E) and those from the C-complex (H, I, J) and B- and C-related complexes (G, F, and K). The animals infected with serovars F, G, H, I, J, and K shed less but had significantly more infertility than the mice infected with serovars D or E. The experiments in the BALB/c mice, however, did not show major differences in pathogenicity between the eight C. trachomatis serovars. These results support the findings in humans and emphasize the critical importance of the immunogenetic background of the host on the outcome of C. trachomatis infections. The data imply that management of C. trachomatis-infected patients may require a more personalized approach.
Melanopsin Contribution to Pupillary Light Reflex and Brightness Perception Based on a 65-Inch Four-Primary Projected Display
Authors: Zhu Nianfang , Tu Yan , Wang Lili , Shi Yunyang
Published: January 2025

Melanopsin contribution to visual and non-visual effect has drawn widespread concern. However, research about whether this contribution can be applied to display system design is limited. Here, a four-primary display system was designed and constructed based on three projectors with filters to realize isolation control of melanopsin and cones, and a 65-inch uniform display area was achieved. The melanopic luminance metamers (higher and lower) of different colours have been modulated thusly. The effect of melanopic luminance on pupillary light reflex (PLR) and brightness perception was explored under a luminous environment of 300 lx to ensure the saturation of rod. The results showed that the higher melanopic luminance level contributed to delayed contraction maintenance. Moreover, a log relationship was found between melanopic equivalent daylight luminance and pupillary contraction maintenance parameters with coefficient of determination more than 0.85. Furthermore, stimuli of higher melanopic luminance level appeared brighter, indicating that melanopsin contributed to brightness perception.
Bifunctional Electromagnetic Manipulation of Surface Waves Using Metasurfaces Under One Circularly Polarized Incidence
Authors: Kang Min , Chen Lixing , Qin Shuaipeng , Ma Liang , Rui Aoxiang , Li Shiqing
Published: January 2025

The ability to freely manipulate the wavefronts of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) or surface waves (SWs), particularly with multifunctional integration, is of great importance in near-field photonics. However, conventional SPP control devices typically suffer from low efficiency and single-function limitations. Although recent works have proposed metasurfaces that achieve bifunctional SPP manipulation, their implementation relies on the excitations of circularly polarized (CP) light with different helicities. Here, we propose a generic approach to designing bifunctional SPP meta-devices under single-helicity circularly polarized incidence. Constructed using carefully selected and arranged meta-atoms that possess both structural resonance and a geometric phase, this kind of meta-device can exhibit two distinct SPP manipulation functionalities in both co- and cross-polarized output channels under one CP incidence. As proof of this concept, we designed a bifunctional meta-device in the microwave regime and numerically demonstrated that it can convert a normally incident left circularly polarized (LCP) beam into SWs, exhibiting both a focused wavefront in the co-polarized output channel and a deflected wavefront in the cross-polarized output channel. Our findings substantially enrich the capabilities of metasurfaces to manipulate near-field electromagnetic waves, which can find many applications in practice.
Synthesis and Characterization of PLA/Biochar Bio-Composites Containing Different Biochar Types and Content
Authors: Papadopoulou Katerina , Klonos Panagiotis A. , Kyritsis Apostolos , Tarani Evangelia , Chrissafis Konstantinos , Mašek Ondrej , Tsachouridis Konstantinos , Anastasiou Antonios D. , Bikiaris Dimitrios N.
Published: January 2025

A series of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/biochar (BC) bio-composites filled with low amounts (1–5 wt%) of BC were prepared and characterized. The synthesis involved the in situ ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of lactide in the presence of two different types of BC named SWP550 and SWP700, having been produced by pyrolysis of softwood pellets at two different temperatures, 550 and 700 °C, respectively. The bio-composites were characterized by complementary techniques. The successful synthesis of PLA and PLA/BC bio-composites was directly demonstrated by the formation of new bonds, most probably between PLA and BC. Indirect evidence for that was obtained by the systematic molar mass reduction in the presence of BC. BC was found by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) micrographs to be well dispersed at the nanosize level, indicating that in situ polymerization is a technique quite efficient for producing bio-composites with finely dispersed BC additive. The molecular dynamics mapping is performed here via dielectric spectroscopy, moreover, for the first time in these PLA/BC systems. The strong PLA/BC interactions (due to the grafting) led to a systematic deceleration of segmental mobility (elevation of the Tg) in the bio-composites despite the opposite effect expected by the decrease in molar mass with the BC content increasing. In addition, the same interactions and chain-length reduction are responsible for the slight suppression of the PLA’s crystallizability. The effects are slightly stronger for SWP700 as compared to SWP550. The crystal structure is rather similar between the unfilled matrix and the bio-composites, whereas, based on the overall data, the semicrystalline morphology is expected to be tighter in the bio-composites. The thermal stability and decomposition kinetics were also thoroughly studied. All materials exhibit good resistance to thermal degradation. Additionally, the mechanical properties of bio-composites were evaluated by tensile testing and found slightly enhanced at low biochar contents and decreasing thereafter due to the low molecular weight of bio-composites with the larger BC contents.
Non-Suicidal Self-Injury in College Students: Differences Between the Subject Group and Comparison Group
Authors: Kim Hye-seung , Seo Yong-won , Lee Youngil , Lee Chang Min , Kim Do Hyun , Kim Minsun , Lim Myung Ho
Published: January 2025

In recent years, self-injury attempts have accounted for 46.2% of emergency room visits by teenagers and young adults. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among Korean college students, compare the mean number of NSSI risk factors between those with a history of NSSI and a control group with no history of thoughts or experiences of self-injury, and identify which factors have a greater influence on NSSI. The participants consisted of 403 Korean college students aged 18–29 who were divided into a subject group with a history of NSSI (n = 198) and a comparison group (n = 205) with no history of NSSI. The Functional Assessment of Self-Mutilation (FASM), Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ-SF), Social Experience Questionnaire (SEQ), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7), Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale—16 item version (DERS-16), Experiences in Close Relationship Questionnaire-Revised (ECR-R), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), Parents as Social Context Questionnaire-Kids (PSCQ-KA), and Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11-Revised (BIS-11). The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0. Before a regression analysis, a MANOVA was performed to examine the mean difference between groups of each dependent variable, and a multiple regression analysis was performed to confirm the influence. The mean difference in all risk factors in the subject group compared with the comparison group was found to be statistically significant, with an effect size of 0.8 or greater. As a result of examining the relative influence of each variable on NSSI, emotional dysregulation (t = 2.481, p = 0.014), anxiety (t = −2.109, p = 0.036), and adult attachment (t = 2.004, p = 0.046) were found to significantly influence NSSI (p = 0.05). These findings will serve as fundamental data for screening clients at risk of self-injury in counseling and treatment settings, in addition to providing preventive and therapeutic interventions.