bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Feasibility of Less-Invasive Bentall Surgery: A Real-World Analysis
Authors: van Kampen Antonia , Etz Christian D. , Haunschild Josephina , Misfeld Martin , Davierwala Piroze , Leontyev Sergey , Borger Michael A.
Published: November 2023

Objective: Minimally invasive approaches are being used increasingly in cardiac surgery and applied in a wider range of operations, including complex aortic procedures. The aim of this study was to examine the safety and feasibility of a partial upper sternotomy approach for isolated elective aortic root replacement (a modified Bentall procedure). Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 768 consecutive patients who had undergone isolated Bentall surgery between January 2000 and January 2021 at our institution, with the exclusion of re-operations, endocarditis, acute aortic dissections, and root replacement with major concomitant procedures such as multi-valve or coronary bypass surgery. A total of 98 patients were operated on via partial sternotomy (PS) and were matched 2:1 to 196 patients operated on via full sternotomy (FS). Results: The procedure time was 12 min longer in the PS group (205 min vs. 192.5 min in the FS group, p = 0.002), however, cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamp times were comparable between groups. Eight PS-procedures were converted to full sternotomy, predominantly for bleeding complications (n = 6). Re-exploration for acute bleeding was necessary in 11% of the PS group and 4.1% of the FS group (p = 0.02). Five FS patients and none in the PS group required emergency coronary bypass grafting for postoperative coronary obstruction (p = 0.2). PS patients were hospitalized for a significantly shorter period (9.5 days vs. 10.5 days in the FS group, respectively). There were no significant differences regarding in-hospital (p = 0.4) and mid-term mortality (p = 0.73), as well as for other perioperative complications. Conclusions: Performing Bentall operations via partial upper sternotomy is associated with similar perfusion and cross-clamp times, as well as overall mortality, when compared to a full sternotomy approach. A low threshold for conversion to full sternotomy should be accepted if limited access proves insufficient for the handling of intraoperative complications, particularly bleeding.
Fibrous Structures Produced Using the Solution Blow-Spinning Technique for Advanced Air Filtration Process
Authors: Penconek Agata , Jackiewicz-Zagórska Anna , Przekop Rafał , Moskal Arkadiusz
Published: November 2023

This study proposes utilising the solution blow-spinning process (SBS) for manufacturing a biodegradable filtration structure that ensures high efficiency of particle filtration with an acceptable pressure drop. The concept of multi-layer filters was applied during the design of filters. Polylactic acid (PLA) was used to produce various layers, which may be mixed in different sequences, building structures with varying filtration properties. Changing the process parameters, one can create layers with diverse average fibre diameters and thicknesses. It enables the design and creation of optimal filtration materials prepared for aerosol particle filtration. The structures were numerically modelled using the lattice Boltzmann approach to obtain detailed production guidelines using the blow-spinning technique. The advantage of this method is the ability to blow fibres with diameters in the nanoscale, applying relatively simple and cost-effective equipment. For tested PLA solutions, i.e., 6% and 10%, the mean fibre diameter decreases as the concentration decreases. Therefore, the overall filtering efficiency decreases as the concentration of the used solution increases. The produced multi-layer filters have 96% overall filtration efficiency for particles ranging from 0.26 to 16.60 micrometres with a pressure drop of less than 160 Pa. Obtained results are auspicious and are a step in producing efficient, biodegradable air filters.
The Influence Mechanism of Interfacial Characteristics between CSH and Montmorillonite on the Strength Properties of Cement-Stabilized Montmorillonite Soil
Authors: Ge Jinyu , Xu Fei , Wei Hua , Wang Qiang , Peng Hu , Zhou Juan , Li Huaisen
Published: November 2023

To elucidate the impact mechanism of the interfacial characteristics of Calcium Silicate Hydrate gel (CSH)–Montmorillonite (MMT) at the nanoscale on the strength of cement-stabilized montmorillonite soil, this paper begins by examining the interfacial energy. Through Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation methods, the energy at the MMT and CSH binding interface is quantitatively calculated, and the correlation between the interfacial energy and macroscopic strength is determined in conjunction with grey relational analysis. Finally, based on the characterization results from X-ray diffraction (XRD), the accuracy and sources of deviation in the MD simulation results are discussed. The study shows the CSH-MMT interfacial energy is composed of van der Waals forces, hydrogen bond energy, and electrostatic interactions, which are influenced by the migration of cations; there is a good consistency between the CSH-MMT interfacial energy and the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of cement-stabilized soil (cemented soil), with the interfacial energy decreasing as the number of water molecules increases and first decreasing then increasing as the number of MMT layers grows; by adjusting the mix proportions, the magnitude of the CSH-MMT interfacial energy can be altered, thereby optimizing the strength of the cemented soil.
Enhancing Dimensional Accuracy in Budget-Friendly 3D Printing through Solid Model Geometry Tuning and Its Use in Rapid Casting
Authors: Haldar Barun
Published: November 2023

Achieving precise dimensional accuracy and improving surface quality are the primary research and development objectives in the engineering and industrial applications of 3D printing (3DP) technologies. This experimental study investigates the pivotal role of solid model geometry tuning in enhancing the dimensional accuracy of affordable 3D printing technologies, with a specific focus on economical engineering applications. This experiment utilises low-cost Material Extrusion/Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) and Stereolithography (SLA)/Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D-printed patterns for the meticulous measurement of errors in the X, Y, and Z directions. These errors are then used to refine subsequent solid models, resulting in a marked improvement in dimensional accuracy (i.e., 0.15%, 0.33%, and 2.16% in the X, Y, and Z directions, respectively) in the final DLP 3D-printed parts. The study also derives and experimentally validates a novel and simple mathematical model for tuning the solid model based on the calculated linear directional errors (ei, ej, and ek). The developed mathematical model offers a versatile approach for achieving superior dimensional accuracy in other 3D printing processes. Medium-sized (4 to 10 cm) wax-made DLP- and PLA-made patterns are used to test the ceramic mould-building capacity for rapid casting (RC), where the FFF-based 3D-printed (hollow inside) pattern favours successful RC. This work comprehensively addresses the critical challenges encountered in low-cost DLP and FFF processes and their scopes in engineering applications. It provides novel suggestions and answers to improve the effectiveness, quality, and accuracy of the FFF 3D printing process for future applications in RC.
Design of Network Intrusion Detection System Using Lion Optimization-Based Feature Selection with Deep Learning Model
Authors: AlGhamdi Rayed
Published: November 2023

In the domain of network security, intrusion detection systems (IDSs) play a vital role in data security. While the utilization of the internet amongst consumers is increasing on a daily basis, the significance of security and privacy preservation of system alerts, due to malicious actions, is also increasing. IDS is a widely executed system that protects computer networks from attacks. For the identification of unknown attacks and anomalies, several Machine Learning (ML) approaches such as Neural Networks (NNs) are explored. However, in real-world applications, the classification performances of these approaches are fluctuant with distinct databases. The major reason for this drawback is the presence of some ineffective or redundant features. So, the current study proposes the Network Intrusion Detection System using a Lion Optimization Feature Selection with a Deep Learning (NIDS-LOFSDL) approach to remedy the aforementioned issue. The NIDS-LOFSDL technique follows the concept of FS with a hyperparameter-tuned DL model for the recognition of intrusions. For the purpose of FS, the NIDS-LOFSDL method uses the LOFS technique, which helps in improving the classification results. Furthermore, the attention-based bi-directional long short-term memory (ABiLSTM) system is applied for intrusion detection. In order to enhance the intrusion detection performance of the ABiLSTM algorithm, the gorilla troops optimizer (GTO) is deployed so as to perform hyperparameter tuning. Since trial-and-error manual hyperparameter tuning is a tedious process, the GTO-based hyperparameter tuning process is performed, which demonstrates the novelty of the work. In order to validate the enhanced solution of the NIDS-LOFSDL system in terms of intrusion detection, a comprehensive range of experiments was performed. The simulation values confirm the promising results of the NIDS-LOFSDL system compared to existing DL methodologies, with a maximum accuracy of 96.88% and 96.92% on UNSW-NB15 and AWID datasets, respectively.
Stochastic Quasi-Geostrophic Equation with Jump Noise in Lp Spaces
Authors: Zhu Jiahui , Wang Xinyun , Su Heling
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we consider a 2D stochastic quasi-geostrophic equation driven by jump noise in a smooth bounded domain. We prove the local existence and uniqueness of mild Lp(D)-solutions for the dissipative quasi-geostrophic equation with a full range of subcritical powers α∈(12,1] by using the semigroup theory and fixed point theorem. Our approach, based on the Yosida approximation argument and Itô formula for the Banach space valued processes, allows for establishing some uniform bounds for the mild solutions and we prove the global existence of mild solutions in L∞(0,T;Lp(D)) space for all p>22α−1, which is consistent with the deterministic case.
Study of a Transmission Problem with Friction Law and Increasing Continuous Terms in a Thin Layer
Authors: Kadri Yasmina , Benseghir Aissa , Boulaaras Salah , Benseridi Hamid , Dilmi Mourad
Published: November 2023

The aim of this paper is to establish the asymptotic analysis of nonlinear boundary value problems. The non-stationary motion is given by the elastic constructive law. The contact is described with a version of Tresca’s law of friction. A variational formulation of the model, in the form of a coupled system for the displacements and the nonlinear source terms, is derived. The existence of a unique weak solution of the model is established. We also give the problem in transpose form, and we demonstrate different estimates of the displacement and of the source term independently of the small parameter. The main corresponding convergence results are stated in the different theorems of the last section.
Formulation of a T-Matrix Approach for a Piecewise-Homogeneous Anisotropic Medium Excited by a Spherical Sound Wave
Authors: Kalogeropoulos Andreas , Tsitsas Nikolaos L.
Published: November 2023

A piecewise-homogeneous medium, consisting of anisotropic layers, is excited by a primary spherical sound wave due to a point source lying in the exterior of the medium or in one of its layers. The direct scattering problem is formulated by means of a modified scalar Helmholtz equation incorporating the anisotropic characteristics of the problem. The T-matrix of the problem is determined analytically by means of a suitable coordinate transformation. Then, the acoustic fields in all layers are obtained. Finally, specific reductions to special cases are presented.
Concerning Fuzzy b-Metric Spaces †
Authors: Romaguera Salvador
Published: November 2023

In an article published in 2015, Hussain et al. introduced a notion of a fuzzy b-metric space and obtained some fixed point theorems for this kind of space. Shortly thereafter, Nădăban presented a notion of a fuzzy b-metric space that is slightly different from the one given by Hussain et al., and explored some of its topological properties. Related to Nădăban’s study, Sedghi and Shobe, Saadati, and Šostak independently conducted investigations in articles published in 2012, 2015, and 2018, respectively, about another class of spaces that Sedgi and Shobe called b-fuzzy metric spaces, Saadati, fuzzy metric type spaces, and Šostak, fuzzy k-metric spaces. The main contributions of our paper are the following: First, we propose a notion of fuzzy b-metric space that encompasses and unifies the aforementioned types of spaces. Our approach, which is based on Gabriec’s notion of a fuzzy metric space, allows us to simultaneously cover two interesting classes of spaces, namely, the 01-fuzzy b-metric spaces and the K-stationary fuzzy b-metric spaces. Second, we show that each fuzzy b-metric space, in our sense, admits uniformity with a countable base. From this fact, we derive, among other consequences, that the topology induced by means of its “open” balls is metrizable. Finally, we obtain a characterization of complete fuzzy b-metric spaces with the help of a fixed point result which is also proved here. In support of our approach, several examples, including an application to a type of difference equations, are discussed.
Drone-Based Decentralized Truck Platooning with UWB Sensing and Control
Authors: de Zarzà I. , de Curtò J. , Cano Juan Carlos , Calafate Carlos T.
Published: November 2023

Truck platooning is a promising approach for reducing fuel consumption, improving road safety, and optimizing transport logistics. This paper presents a drone-based decentralized truck platooning system that leverages the advantages of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology for precise positioning, robust communication, and real-time control. Our approach integrates UWB sensors on both trucks and drones, creating a scalable and resilient platooning system that can handle dynamic traffic conditions and varying road environments. The decentralized nature of the proposed system allows for increased flexibility and adaptability compared to traditional centralized platooning approaches. The core platooning algorithm employs multi-objective optimization, taking into account fuel efficiency, travel time, and safety. We propose a strategy for the formation and management of platoons based on UWB sensor data with an emphasis on maintaining optimal inter-vehicle secure distances and compatibility between trucks. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in achieving efficient and stable platooning while addressing the challenges posed by real-world traffic scenarios. The proposed drone-based decentralized platooning system with UWB technology paves the way for the next generation of intelligent transportation systems that are more efficient, safer, and environment friendly.
Numerical Study on Metal Transverse Flow Law and Model of Rolled Strip under Variable Specification in Hot Rolling
Authors: Chai Xiaojun , Li Yanlin , Shang Fei
Published: November 2023

The research on metal transverse flow under variable specification is of great significance for shape calculation and control in hot strip rolling. The finite element software ABAQUS 2016 is used to establish the elastic–plastic deformation model of a hot rolled strip to study the metal transverse flow. The edge transverse strain εe and center transverse strain εc are introduced to characterize metal transverse flow and calculate the strip flatness. The effect on εe, εc and the flatness increment of similarity of profile under different widths, thicknesses and reduction rates is simulated and calculated. The results show that the change in similarity of profile has a linear influence on εe and εc. The strip has the ability of flatness self-correction due to the metal transverse flow. The ksc of the strip with B = 700 mm is 0.87, which is significantly greater than the 0.45 ksc value of the strip with B = 2100 mm. Priority can be given to ensure the crown requirements during narrow strip rolling. The ksc of the strip with H = 50 mm is 0.45, which is higher than the 0.22 ksc value of the strip with H = 6 mm, and the ksc of the strip with ε = 50% is 0.52, which is higher than 0.30 ksc value of the strip with ε = 10%. It is more reasonable to adjust the crown to a greater extent in the upstream stand to meet the requirement of both flatness and crown for the large entry thickness reduction rate and self-correction ability. A metal transverse flow prediction model based on the full test simulation results is established, which can meet the requirement of crown setting at the exit of each stand and the rapid calculation of online flatness control, and can further make the crown and flatness reach the target values at the finishing exit.
Crack Initiation in Ni-Based Single Crystal Superalloy under Low-Cycle Fatigue-Oxidation Conditions
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Zhao Xinbao , Yue Quanzhao , Xia Wanshun , Ding Qingqing , Bei Hongbin , Gu Yuefeng , Zhang Ze
Published: November 2023

The mechanism of oxidation-assisted initiation of surface cracks of a fourth-generation Ni-based single crystal superalloy was systematically investigated during low cycle fatigue at 900 °C and 980 °C. The results show that cracks initiate near the surface defects at 900 °C, while they initiate in the surface oxide layer at 980 °C. At 900 °C, the oxidation microcrack initiation in the thicker inner oxidation layer is difficult to connect with the surface oxidation crack, which is an essential reason for the crack growth rate being slower and not becoming the main crack. At 980 °C, microcracks form in the outer oxide layer and quickly connect with microcracks at the surface and inner/outer oxide layer interface, growing into long cracks that become channels for rapid oxygen transport. This accelerates the crack growth rate, and eventually the oxide crack becomes the main crack.
Corrosion Resistance of Fe-Cr-Al Intermetallic Coatings Obtained by Aluminizing
Authors: Gurevich Leonid M. , Pronichev Dmitriy V. , Slautin Oleg V. , Tikhaeva Viktoriya V.
Published: November 2023

The growing interest in intermetallic and metal–intermetallic materials and coatings is based on the number of favorable properties they possess, primarily mechanical. However, the lack of data on their corrosion resistance has largely limited their scope of application. In this study, the corrosion destruction mechanisms of coatings formed on substrates made of AISI 321 steel and Aluchrom W (fechralloy) were investigated. The coatings were created by alloying in an aluminum melt followed by diffusion annealing to form the ultimate intermetallic structure. Corrosion resistance was studied under cyclic exposure to a humid marine atmosphere simulator and potentiostatic tests in an aqueous NaCl solution. Corrosion destruction parameters were determined, and mechanisms for each type of coating were revealed. The conducted studies allowed us to determine the electrochemical parameters of the corrosion destruction process and its mechanisms. It was shown that the corrosion rates during potentiostating for coatings on substrates Cr15Al5 and 12Cr18Ni10Ti differed by almost twofold. Two different mechanisms of corrosion are proposed. The first is associated with the formation of Al2O3 and MgO oxide films, which at the initial stage protect only local areas of the coating surface on Cr15Al5. The second is determined by the diffusion of titanium atoms during annealing to the coating surface on a 12Cr18Ni10Ti steel substrate with the formation of TiC carbide at the grain boundaries.
High-Temperature Mechanical Behavior of Cobalt-Free FeMnCrNi(Al) High-Entropy Alloys
Authors: Liu Dan , Jin Xi , Yang Huijun , Qiao Junwei , Zhang Yong
Published: November 2023

The high-temperature properties of new alloys need to be investigated to guide the hot working process. The temperature sensitivity of various microstructures of Fe45Mn15Cr15Ni25 and Fe35Mn15Cr15Ni25Al10 cobalt-free high-entropy alloys was investigated using high-temperature tensile tests. For recrystallized alloys, the increase in aluminum (Al) atoms exacerbates the emergence of serration behavior, prolongs the strain hardening capacity, and delays the decrease in plasticity. The Fe35Mn15Cr15Ni25Al10 alloy, with a high-density precipitated phase, exhibits excellent mechanical properties at 673 K. It has a yield strength of 735 MPa, an ultimate tensile strength of 1030 MPa, and an elongation of 11%. Ultimately, it has been found that the addition of the element Al improves the strength, oxidation resistance, and thermal stability of the alloy. According to the solid solution strengthening model fitting and nanoindentation results, the temperature sensitivity of the yield strength of the alloy is primarily attributed to the solid solution strengthening and phase interface forces. There is relatively less variation in grain boundary strengthening and precipitation strengthening. The relationship between the mechanical properties and temperature of the alloy can be predicted to guide the machining process of the alloy.
Design of a Circularly Polarized Micro-Strip Antenna for Aircraft Tracking Based on BeiDou III Compatible with Multi-Navigation System
Authors: Ma Zhenyang , Huang Xinyi
Published: November 2023

This paper proposed a right-handed circularly polarized (RHCP) micro-strip antenna for multi-navigation system applications. The size of the antenna is 70 mm × 70 mm × 2 mm, which is fabricated on an FR4 substrate. A meandering technique on a patch layer and asymmetrical defected ground structures (DGS) are employed to achieve the purpose of miniaturization and increase the bandwidth of the axial ratio. The prototype of this antenna is fabricated according to simulations where the bandwidth of return loss, bandwidth of axial ratio, and radio pattern are further testified. The bandwidth of return loss (S11) and axial ratio (AR) of the antennas are from 1.540 GHz to 1.612 GHz and 1.554 GHz to 1.601 GHz, which would be available for L1 of GPS, L1 of SBAS, E1 of Galileo as well as B1I and B1C of BDS-3, the last two of which can be used for aircraft tracking. The relative bandwidth is 2.98%, which satisfies the standard of wide-band patch antennas.
Temperature Compensation of SAW Winding Tension Sensor Based on PSO-LSSVM Algorithm
Authors: Feng Yang , Liu Wenbo , Yu Haoda , Hu Keyong , Sun Shuifa , Wang Ben
Published: November 2023

In this paper, a SAW winding tension sensor is designed and data fusion technology is used to improve its measurement accuracy. To design a high-measurement precision SAW winding tension sensor, the unbalanced split-electrode interdigital transducers (IDTs) were used to design the input IDTs and output IDTs, and the electrode-overlap envelope was adopted to design the input IDT. To improve the measurement accuracy of the sensor, the particle swarm optimization-least squares support vector machine (PSO-LSSVM) algorithm was used to compensate for the temperature error. After temperature compensation, the sensitivity temperature coefficient αs of the SAW winding tension sensor was decreased by an order of magnitude, thus significantly improving its measurement accuracy. Finally, the error with actually applied tension was calculated, the same in the LSSVM and PSO-LSSVM. By multiple comparisons of the same sample data set overall, as well as the local accuracy of the forecasted results, which is 5.95%, it is easy to confirm that the output error predicted by the PSO-LSSVM model is 0.50%, much smaller relative to the LSSVM’s 1.42%. As a result, a new way for performing data analysis of the SAW winding tension sensor is provided.
Genetic Characterization of Sandfly-Borne Viruses in Phlebotomine Sandflies in Iran
Authors: Shahhosseini Nariman , Paquette Sarah-Jo , Kayedi Mohammad Hassan , Abaei Mohammad Reza , Sedaghat Mohammad Mehdi
Published: November 2023

Phleboviruses are classified into two main groups: the sandfly fever group (transmitted by sandflies and mosquitoes) and the Uukuniemi group (transmitted by ticks). Old World sandfly-borne viruses (SBVs) are classified into four main serocomplexes; sandfly fever Naples viruses (SFNVs), sandfly fever Sicilian viruses (SFSVs), Karimabad viruses (KARVs), and Salehabad viruses (SALVs). This study addresses current knowledge gaps on SBVs in Iran by focusing on identification and molecular epidemiology. We used PCR to examine DNA/RNA extracts to identify sandfly species and evaluate for SBV presence. We identified five specimens positive for phleboviruses: one Ph. sergenti for Tehran virus (TEHV), one Ph. papatasi for SFSV, and two Ph. papatasi and one Ph. perfiliewi for KARV. A phylogenetic tree indicated that the TEHV isolate from this study formed a cluster with previous isolates of TEHV, Zerdali virus, and Fermo virus. Meanwhile, the identified SFSV isolate fell in lineage I and was grouped with previous isolates of SFSVs and Dashli virus in Iran. Finally, the KARV isolates from this study formed a monophyletic clade in a sister relationship with other viruses in KARV lineages I and II. This comprehensive study on SBVs in Iran provided new insights into the molecular epidemiology of TEHV, SFSVs and KARVs in this country.
Using Machine Learning to Predict Genes Underlying Differentiation of Multipartite and Unipartite Traits in Bacteria
Authors: Almalki Fatemah , Sunuwar Janak , Azad Rajeev K.
Published: November 2023

Since the discovery of the second chromosome in the Rhodobacter sphaeroides 2.4.1 by Suwanto and Kaplan in 1989 and the revelation of gene sequences, multipartite genomes have been reported in over three hundred bacterial species under nine different phyla. This phenomenon shattered the dogma of a unipartite genome (a single circular chromosome) in bacteria. Recently, Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and Deep Learning (DL) have emerged as powerful tools in the investigation of big data in a plethora of disciplines to decipher complex patterns in these data, including the large-scale analysis and interpretation of genomic data. An important inquiry in bacteriology pertains to the genetic factors that underlie the structural evolution of multipartite and unipartite bacterial species. Towards this goal, here we have attempted to leverage machine learning as a means to identify the genetic factors that underlie the differentiation of, in general, bacteria with multipartite genomes and bacteria with unipartite genomes. In this study, deploying ML algorithms yielded two gene lists of interest: one that contains 46 discriminatory genes obtained following an assessment on all gene sets, and another that contains 35 discriminatory genes obtained based on an investigation of genes that are differentially present (or absent) in the genomes of the multipartite bacteria and their respective close relatives. Our study revealed a small pool of genes that discriminate bacteria with multipartite genomes and their close relatives with single-chromosome genomes. Machine learning thus aided in uncovering the genetic factors that underlie the differentiation of bacterial multipartite and unipartite traits.
Hydrogenetic and Diagenetic Controls on the Specific Surface Area of Polymetallic Nodules in Deep Ocean Basins
Authors: Ren Xiangwen , Li Haonan , Yan Shijuan , Li Huaiming , Shi Xuefa
Published: November 2023

Polymetallic nodules (nodules) are a predominant deep-sea mineral resource due to theirenrichment with critical metals, such as Co, Ni, and Cu, and rare earth elements (REEs). The loose and porous nature of nodules contributes to their adsorption and enrichment in trace metals from seawater and pore water. Consequently, the specific surface area (SSA) of nodules is a key factor requiring further study. However, controls on the SSA of nodules with various genetic types remain poorly characterized. This study aimed to investigate controls on nodule SSA by analyzing the transition metals, REEs, mineralogy, and SSA of nodules recovered from basins in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific oceans, including the Northwest Pacific Basin (NPB), Bauer Basin (BB), Tiki Basin (TB), Wharton Basin (WB), Central Indian Basin (CIB), and Angola Basin (AB). Nodule SSAs were compared among the various basins by calculating the BET SSA (based on the equation proposed by Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller, 1938). The results suggest thatnodules from the PNB, WB, CIB, and AB are mainly hydrogenetic, and those nodules have a relatively high SSA, high Co, low Ni and Cu, positive Ce anomalies, and low X-ray diffraction (XRD) intensities at ~10 Å. The nodules from the BB and TB are mainly diagenetic in origin, characterized by a relatively low SSA, low Co, high Ni and Cu, negative Ce anomalies, and high XRD intensities at ~10 Å. The SSAs of nodules were significantly positively correlated with Co, δCe, and light REEs (LREEs), and negatively correlated with the XRD intensity at ~10 Å, Ni, and Cu. The SSAs of nodules from the NPB ranged from 329.440 m2/g to 418.711 m2/g, comparable to the SSAs of Co-rich crusts on seamounts. This study proposes that nodule SAA is regulated by nodule genesis and that hydrogenetic nodules have a higher SSA.
The Scale Effects of Organometal Halide Perovskites
Authors: Zhang Yibo , Zhao Zhenze , Liu Zhe , Tang Aiwei
Published: November 2023

Organometal halide perovskites have achieved great success in solution-processed photovoltaics. The explorations quickly expanded into other optoelectronic applications, including light-emitting diodes, lasers, and photodetectors. An in-depth analysis of the special scale effects is essential to understand the working mechanisms of devices and optimize the materials towards an enhanced performance. Generally speaking, organometal halide perovskites can be classified in two ways. By controlling the morphological dimensionality, 2D perovskite nanoplatelets, 1D perovskite nanowires, and 0D perovskite quantum dots have been studied. Using appropriate organic and inorganic components, low-dimensional organic–inorganic metal halide hybrids with 2D, quasi-2D, 1D, and 0D structures at the molecular level have been developed and studied. This provides opportunities to investigate the scale-dependent properties. Here, we present the progress on the characteristics of scale effects in organometal halide perovskites in these two classifications, with a focus on carrier diffusion, excitonic features, and defect properties.
Effects of an Individualized vs. Standardized Vitamin D Supplementation on the 25(OH)D Level in Athletes
Authors: Tuma Chiara , Schick Arne , Pommerening Nele , Braun Hans , Thevis Mario
Published: November 2023

Vitamin D is crucial to the health and performance of athletes. Although the exact vitamin D requirements for athletes have not been established, maintaining a 25(OH)D level of at least 40 ng/mL is considered beneficial. This randomized controlled intervention study aimed to determine whether an individual loading dose formula for vitamin D supplementation is more effective than standardized supplementation and suitable enough for athletes to meet a target value of 40 ng/mL. In a 10-week supplementation study conducted during the winter months in Germany, 90 athletes with insufficient vitamin D levels (25(OH)D < 30 ng/mL) were randomly assigned to receive either a universal dose of 2000 IU/day of vitamin D or a loading dose of 4000 IU/day, followed by a maintenance dose of 1000 IU/day. The total 25(OH)D concentration was measured from dried blood spots at three time points: at baseline, at the computed date of 40 ng/mL, and after the 10-week period. Additionally, a vitamin-D-specific questionnaire was issued. On the day when 25(OH)D blood concentrations of 40 ng/mL were calculated to prevail, the individualized group had a significantly higher 25(OH)D level than the standardized group (41.1 ± 10.9 ng/mL vs. 32.5 ± 6.4 ng/mL, p < 0.001). This study demonstrated that the examined formula is suitable enough for athletes to achieve a 25(OH)D concentration of 40 ng/mL. This indicates that a personalized approach is more effective than a one-size-fits-all approach in restoring adequate vitamin D levels in athletes.
Bone Status and Early Nutrition in Preterm Newborns with and without Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Authors: Meneghelli Marta , Peruzzo Andrea , Priante Elena , Cavicchiolo Maria Elena , Bonadies Luca , Moschino Laura , De Terlizzi Francesca , Verlato Giovanna
Published: November 2023

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) together with preterm birth could be harmful to bone health. The aim of the study was to examine bone status in IUGR versus non-IUGR preterms and to analyze the nutritional management best correlated with its improvement. Newborns < 34 weeks of gestational age (wGA), 75 IUGR and 75 non-IUGR, admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the University Hospital of Padova were enrolled and monitored from birth until 36 wGA through anthropometry (weight, length, head circumference, lower limb length (LLL)), biochemistry, bone quantitative ultrasound assessment of bone status (metacarpus bone transmission time, mc-BTT, us) and nutritional intakes monitoring during parenteral nutrition. IUGR compared to non-IUGR showed lower mean mc-BTT (0.45 vs. 0.51, p = 0.0005) and plasmatic phosphate (1.45 vs. 1.79, p < 0.001) at birth. Mc-BTT at 36 wGA, though equal between groups, correlated in IUGR newborns with basal phosphate, mean total energy of the first week and month (positively) and days to reach full enteral feeding (negatively). Lower i.v. vitamin D intake, LLL and prolonged total parenteral nutrition predicted worse mc-BTT at 36 wGA in the enrolled infants. These results suggest that preterms and in particular IUGR newborns need special nutritional care to promote bone development.
The 2023’s Growing Evidence Confirming the Relationship between Vitamin D and Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Cutolo Maurizio , Gotelli Emanuele
Published: November 2023

The second Special Issue of Nutrients dedicated to “Vitamin D, Immune Response, and Autoimmune Diseases” will include original data and recent achievements from authors who would like to participate in this research topic [...]
Low-Carbohydrate and Low-Fat Diet with Metabolic-Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Hu Chengxiang , Huang Rong , Li Runhong , Ning Ning , He Yue , Zhang Jiaqi , Wang Yingxin , Ma Yanan , Jin Lina
Published: November 2023

Background: This observational cross-sectional study was designed to explore the effects of a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) and a low-fat diet (LFD) on metabolic-dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Methods: This study involved 3961 adults. The associations between LCD/LFD scores and MAFLD were evaluated utilizing a multivariable logistic regression model. Additionally, a leave-one-out model was applied to assess the effect of isocaloric substitution of specific macronutrients. Results: Participants within the highest tertile of healthy LCD scores (0.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45–0.89) or with a healthy LFD score (0.64; 95%CI, 0.48–0.86) faced a lower MAFLD risk. Furthermore, compared with tertile 1, individuals with unhealthy LFD scores in terile 2 or tertile 3 had 49% (95%CI, 1.17–1.90) and 77% (95%CI, 1.19–2.63) higher risk levels for MAFLD, respectively. Conclusions: Healthy LCD and healthy LFD are protective against MAFLD, while unhealthy LFD can increase the risk of MAFLD. Both the quantity and quality of macronutrients might have significant influences on MAFLD.
The Relationship between Self-Reported Sitting Time and Vitamin D Levels in Middle-Aged and Elderly Taiwanese Population: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Chang Yu-Hsuan , Lin Chun-Ru , Shih Yu-Lin , Shih Chin-Chuan , Chen Jau-Yuan
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Many studies have revealed a relationship between serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D and physical activity. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between self-reported sitting time and serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels in middle-aged and elderly adults in Taiwan. (2) Methods: A total of 396 people were enrolled in our study during a community health examination in Taiwan in 2019. We grouped participants from low to high according to their tertile of serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels, using the following categories: deficiency, insufficiency, and sufficiency. Parameters including self-reported sitting time were analyzed between each group. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to explore the relationships of serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels with age-adjusted risk factors. A scatter plot demonstrated the relationship between serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels and self-reported sitting time. The association between serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels and self-reported sitting time was assessed by multivariate linear regression with adjustment for age, sex, waist circumference, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and smoking and drinking status. (3) Results: We analyzed the data from 396 participants. A total of 41.4% of participants were male, and the average age of all participants was 64.91 (±8.80) years. The participants in the high serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D group were more likely to have shorter self-reported sitting time. Serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D was negatively correlated (Pearson’s r) with self-reported sitting time, even after adjustment for age. According to the results of multivariate linear regression, vitamin D levels showed a negative association with self-reported sitting time (β = −0.131, p = 0.006) after adjustment for age, sex, waist circumference, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and smoking and drinking status. (4) Conclusions: According to our research, self-reported sitting time was inversely correlated with serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D in middle-aged and elderly people in Taiwan. Meanwhile, longer self-reported sitting time can be an independent risk factor for lower serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels.
Evolution of Scientific Production on Phlebitis Secondary to Vascular Access: A 71-Year Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Torné-Ruiz Alba , García-Expósito Judith , Bonet Aida , Masot Olga , Roca Judith , Selva-Pareja Laia
Published: November 2023

Phlebitis secondary to vascular access is one of the most frequent complications in hospital care. This study aims to evaluate the scientific activity related to this complication through a bibliometric analysis. The search was performed on a single day, 23 January 2023, to ensure the inclusion of all articles and to avoid bias caused by the daily updates of the open access database. The data were recovered from Web of Science. The sample comprised a total of 1596 publications that met the inclusion criteria. The United States was the country with the largest number of publications, citations, and international cooperation with respect to phlebitis and vascular access. The most important author was Rickard CM. Of all the publications selected, a total of 1586 (99.37%) were original articles. The highest number of articles on the subject was recorded in 2021, and the most common research areas were General Internal Medicine and Nursing. The analysis of the clusters (KeyWords Plus and Author keywords) and co-occurrences enabled identification of areas of interest and their possible development. These areas included the prevention, risk, and associated complications of catheter-associated phlebitis. Other aspects that are a priori relevant, such as assessment and treatment, were found to be little investigated. While research on this subject is increasing internationally, more collaborations are still required between researchers, as well as new approaches related to the management of catheter-associated phlebitis. The dimensions that should continue to be considered in new research, according to the findings of this review, are instruments for phlebitis assessment and their validation, and the treatments to follow in the case of established phlebitis. For this reason, the bibliometric information presented is key for new or consolidated researchers in the field, especially because of its practical and clinical implications for patient safety.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus Attenuates Cisplatin-Induced Intestinal Mucositis in Mice via Modulating the Gut Microbiota and Improving Intestinal Inflammation
Authors: Alsholi Duaa M. , Yacoub Ghazi Suleiman , Rehman Ata Ur , Ullah Hidayat , Khan Asif Iqbal , Deng Ting , Siddiqui Nimra Zafar , Alioui Yamina , Farooqui Nabeel Ahmed , Elkharti Maroua , Li Yanxia , Wang Liang , Xin Yi
Published: November 2023

Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LBS) is a well-documented probiotic strain in oncology and has a pivotal role in clinical applications. Here, we have investigated the protective effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus on intestinal mucositis induced by cisplatin (CP) and explored the underlying mechanisms targeting inflammatory proteins, as well as the histological changes in the intestinal tissue of mice, in addition, the bacterial strains that may be related to the health-enhancing properties. BALB/c mice were pre-treated with or without LBS via oral gavage, followed by mucositis induction with cisplatin. Our results revealed that the LBS-treated groups significantly attenuated proinflammatory cytokine levels (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) compared to the CP group. Furthermore, LBS mitigated the damaged tight junction integrity caused by CP via up-regulating the levels of claudin, occludin, ZO-1, and mucin-2 protein (MUC-2). Finally, the 16S rRNA fecal microbiome genomic analysis showed that LBS administration enhanced the growth of beneficial bacteria, i.e., Firmicutes and Lachnospiraceae, while the relative abundance of the opportunistic bacteria Bacteroides and Proteobacteria decreased. Collectively, LBS was found to beneficially modulate microbial composition structure and functions and enrich the ecological diversity in the gut.
Fifty Years of the National Rabies Control Program in Brazil under the One Health Perspective
Authors: Schneider Maria Cristina , Min Kyung-Duk , Romijn Phyllis Catharina , De Morais Nelio Batista , Montebello Lucia , Manrique Rocha Silene , Sciancalepore Sofia , Hamrick Patricia Najera , Uieda Wilson , Câmara Volney de Magalhães , Luiz Ronir Raggio , Belotto Albino
Published: November 2023

In 1973, the National Rabies Program was created in Brazil through an agreement between the Ministry of Health and Agriculture. Since its beginning, it developed integrated action through access to free post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for people at risk, dog vaccination campaigns, a joint surveillance system, and awareness. This study aims to describe human rabies in Brazil under the One Health perspective in recent decades, including achievements in the control of dog-mediated cases and challenges in human cases transmitted by wild animals. This paper also explores possible drivers of human rabies in the Northeast Region with half of the cases. The first part of this study was descriptive, presenting data and examples by periods. Statistical analysis was performed in the last period (2010–2022) to explore possible drivers. Dog-mediated human cases decreased from 147 to 0, and dog cases decreased from 4500 to 7. A major challenge is now human cases transmitted by wild animals (bats, non-human primates, and wild canids). Most current human cases occur in municipalities with a tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forest biome and a Gini index higher than 0.5. In the multivariable analysis, an association with temperature was estimated (OR = 1.739; CI95% = 1.181–2.744), and primary healthcare coverage (OR = 0.947; CI95% = 0.915–0.987) was identified as a protector. It is possible to significantly reduce the number of dog-mediated human rabies cases through the efforts presented. However, Brazil has wildlife variants of the rabies virus circulating. The association of human cases with higher temperatures in the Northeast is a concern with climate change. To reduce human cases transmitted by wild animals, it is important to continue distributing free PEP, especially in remote at-risk areas in the Amazon Region, and to increase awareness.
Impact of Pharmacogenomics in Clinical Practice
Authors: Principi Nicola , Petropulacos Kyriakoula , Esposito Susanna
Published: November 2023

Polymorphisms of genes encoding drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters can significantly modify pharmacokinetics, and this can be associated with significant differences in drug efficacy, safety, and tolerability. Moreover, genetic variants of some components of the immune system can explain clinically relevant drug-related adverse events. However, the implementation of drug dose individualization based on pharmacogenomics remains scarce. In this narrative review, the impact of genetic variations on the disposition, safety, and tolerability of the most commonly prescribed drugs is reported. Moreover, reasons for poor implementation of pharmacogenomics in everyday clinical settings are discussed. The literature analysis showed that knowledge of how genetic variations can modify the effectiveness, safety, and tolerability of a drug can lead to the adjustment of usually recommended drug dosages, improve effectiveness, and reduce drug-related adverse events. Despite some efforts to introduce pharmacogenomics in clinical practice, presently very few centers routinely use genetic tests as a guide for drug prescription. The education of health care professionals seems critical to keep pace with the rapidly evolving field of pharmacogenomics. Moreover, multimodal algorithms that incorporate both clinical and genetic factors in drug prescribing could significantly help in this regard. Obviously, further studies which definitively establish which genetic variations play a role in conditioning drug effectiveness and safety are needed. Many problems must be solved, but the advantages for human health fully justify all the efforts.