bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vision-Guided Hierarchical Control and Autonomous Positioning for Aerial Manipulator
Authors: Ye Xia , Cui Haohao , Wang Lidong , Xie Shangjun , Ni Hong
Published: November 2023

Aerial manipulator systems possess active operational capability, and by incorporating various sensors, the systems’ autonomy is further enhanced. In this paper, we address the challenge of accurate positioning between an aerial manipulator and the operational targets during tasks such as grasping and delivery in the absence of motion capture systems indoors. We propose a vision-guided aerial manipulator system comprising a quad-rotor UAV and a single-degree-of-freedom manipulator. First, the overall structure of the aerial manipulator is designed, and a hierarchical control system is established. We employ the fusion of LiDAR-based SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping) and IMU (inertial measurement unit) to enhance the positioning accuracy of the aerial manipulator. Real-time target detection and recognition are achieved by combining a depth camera and laser sensor for distance measurements, enabling adjustment of the grasping pose of the aerial manipulator. Finally, we employ a segmented grasping strategy to position and grasp the target object precisely. Experimental results demonstrate that the designed aerial manipulator system maintains a stable orientation within a certain range of ±5° during operation; its position movement is independent of orientation changes. The successful autonomous grasping of lightweight cylindrical objects in real-world scenarios verifies the effectiveness and rationality of the proposed system, ensuring high operational efficiency and robust disturbance resistance.
Experimental Study on Post-Grouting Pile Vertical Bearing Performance Considering Different Grouting Methods and Parameters in Cohesive Soil
Authors: Zhang Jiaqi , Zhao Chunfeng , Wu Yue
Published: November 2023

The selection of grouting methods and parameters significantly affects the improvement in the pile-bearing capacity of cast-in-place bored piles. This study proposes a comprehensive set of test methods for constructing model piles, performing grouting at the pile tip and pile side. A series of single-pile grouting and static load tests were conducted using these test methods. The results reveal that pile-side grouting is more effective in controlling pile settlement compared to tip grouting. Furthermore, tip-side-combined grouting exhibits superior reinforcement effects compared to the other two grouting methods. After grouting, a grout bubble is formed at the outlet, consisting of a compact diffusion zone internally and a split diffusion zone externally. Additionally, a vertical diffusion of grout occurs along the pile body, establishing a lateral friction resistance enhancement region. Within this region, the lateral friction resistance of the pile shows a negative correlation with the distance from the grouting outlet. The test results emphasize the significance of grouting volume and its impact on the bearing capacity, settlement control, lateral friction resistance, and grout bubble size in grouted piles, while the influence of variation in grouting pressure in a small range on bearing characteristics is not significantly apparent.
Temporal and Spatial Analysis of Deformation Monitoring of the Ming Great Wall in Shanxi Province through InSAR
Authors: Liu Qi , Wang Xuan , Cong Kanglin , Zhang Junhao , Yang Zongheng
Published: November 2023

The Great Wall of China constitutes a significant cultural treasure of the Chinese nation and a valuable piece of heritage of world civilization. Owing to both natural and anthropogenic factors, the Great Wall is undergoing gradual deformation, thereby posing considerable challenges to the overall preservation of the associated sites. This study aims to investigate techniques for monitoring deformation at large-scale linear heritage sites, leveraging the Great Wall as a representative example, and to offer valuable insights for monitoring surface deformations at extensive cultural heritage sites worldwide. Employing SBAS-InSAR technology, this research analyzes and monitors the deformation of the Great Wall. A series of Sentinel-1A images captured between March 2017 and January 2022, consisting of 161 scenes, were subjected to SBAS-InSAR processing to derive the deformation rate field along the wall. To ensure the reliability of the findings, a representative mountainous segment, spanning approximately 896.53 km within the scenic corridor of the Great Wall, was selected for analysis. The outcomes indicate that 75.8% of the scenic corridor in Shanxi Province, representing the Ming Great Wall, exhibits relative stability with deformation rates ranging from −10 to 10 mm/year. Conversely, 24.2% of the scenic corridor demonstrates significant deformation, with a maximum subsidence rate of 33.1 mm/year and a maximum subsidence of 148.6 mm. Therefore, this research highlights the potential application of SBAS-InSAR technology in the monitoring and assessment of surface deformation at massive linear cultural heritage sites and offers a reference point for similar monitoring efforts on a global scale.
Characterization of Talcose Rocks Derived from Serpentinite—Pilot Study in the Ultramafic Complex of Cabo Ortegal (Spain) for Potential Use and Commercialization
Authors: Pereira Dolores , Rivas Teresa , López Ana J. , Ramil Alberto , Bloise Andrea
Published: November 2023

Cabo Ortegal, in Spain, was declared a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2023. An ultramafic complex makes it a geologically exciting unit, where many research works have been carried out. Serpentinites, formed by the weathering of peridotites, dunites, and other ultramafic rocks, have been described in detail in previous works. Their role as a construction material has been elucidated, although due to their complexity and heterogeneity, the results of using these materials for construction are not always successful. Talcose rocks, related to serpentinites, can also be found in the complex, although it is difficult to distinguish them. Talcose rocks may be a resource to be explored and exploited in an unpopulated area. The use of talc in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and handicrafts makes it a material of growing importance. However, the asbestos and heavy metal content should be severely limited to prevent health issues. The goal of this work is to start the characterization of these talcose rocks before promoting their potential use in different contexts to support the economy of an underpopulated area of Spain.
Oral Delivery of mRNA by Liposomes Functionalized with Cell-Penetrating Peptides
Authors: Dürr Valerie , Wohlfart Sabrina , Eisenzapf Tom , Mier Walter , Fricker Gert , Uhl Philipp
Published: November 2023

Lipid nanoparticles, including liposomes, have emerged as promising vehicles for the delivery of a variety of therapeutics. Several formulations have been approved and are used in medical practice—the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines represent the most recent milestone. Achieving effective oral delivery would elevate the potential of these formulations. Therefore, this study investigates the oral application of mRNA using liposomes as a nanocarrier system. A cyclic cell-penetrating peptide was coupled to the liposomal surface to allow uptake into the intestinal mucosal cells. The liposomes were loaded with mRNA (up to 112 µg/mL) and characterized in terms of their size (Z-average; 135.4 nm ± 1.1 nm), size distribution (polydispersity index (PDI); 0.213 ± 0.007 nm), surface charge (2.89 ± 0.27 mV), structure, lamellarity (multilamellar liposomes), and cargo capacity (>90%). The impact of freeze-drying and long-term storage of liposomal formulations was examined, and in vitro experiments on Caco-2 cells were conducted to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the liposomal formulations and demonstrate the uptake of the liposomes into cells. The efficiency of the formulations could be proven in vitro. When compared to control liposomes and 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium propane (DOTAP)-liposomes, the new formulations exhibited significantly enhanced uptake in Caco-2 cells, an immortalized epithelial cell line. Moreover, the cytocompatibility of the formulations could be proven by the absence of cytotoxic effects on the viability of Caco-2 cells. Hence, this liposomal drug delivery system holds significant promise for the oral delivery of mRNA.
Frequency–Redshift Relation of the Cosmic Microwave Background
Authors: Hofmann Ralf , Meinert Janning
Published: November 2023

We point out that a modified temperature–redshift relation (T-z relation) of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) cannot be deduced by any observational method that appeals to an a priori thermalisation to the CMB temperature T of the excited states in a probe environment of independently determined redshift z. For example, this applies to quasar-light absorption by a damped Lyman-alpha system due to atomic as well as ionic fine-splitting transitions or molecular rotational bands. Similarly, the thermal Sunyaev-Zel’dovich (thSZ) effect cannot be used to extract the CMB’s T-z relation. This is because the relative line strengths between ground and excited states in the former and the CMB spectral distortion in the latter case both depend, apart from environment-specific normalisations, solely on the dimensionless spectral variable x=hνkBT. Since the literature on extractions of the CMB’s T-z relation always assumes (i) ν(z)=(1+z)ν(z=0), where ν(z=0) is the observed frequency in the heliocentric rest frame, the finding (ii) T(z)=(1+z)T(z=0) just confirms the expected blackbody nature of the interacting CMB at z>0. In contrast to the emission of isolated, directed radiation, whose frequency–redshift relation (ν-z relation) is subject to (i), a non-conventional ν-z relation ν(z)=f(z)ν(z=0) of pure, isotropic blackbody radiation, subject to adiabatically slow cosmic expansion, necessarily has to follow that of the T-z relation T(z)=f(z)T(z=0) and vice versa. In general, the function f(z) is determined by the energy conservation of the CMB fluid in a Friedmann–Lemaitre–Robertson–Walker universe. If the pure CMB is subject to an SU(2) rather than a U(1) gauge principle, then f(z)=1/41/3(1+z) for z≫1, and f(z) is non-linear for z∼1.
Collisional Classical Dynamics at the Quantum Scale
Authors: Otranto Sebastian
Published: November 2023

During the past five decades, classical dynamics have been systematically used to gain insight on collision processes between charged particles and photons with atomic and molecular targets. These methods have proved to be efficient for systems in which numerical intensive quantum mechanical methods are not yet tractable. During the years, reaction cross sections for charge exchange and ionization have been scrutinized at the total and differential levels, leading to a clear understanding of the benefits and limitations inherent in a classical description. In this work, we present a review of the classical trajectory Monte Carlo method, its current status and the perspectives that can be envisaged for the near future.
Cartilage Conduction Sounds in Cases of Wearing Different Transducers on a Head and Torso Simulator with a Manipulated Ear Pinna Simulator
Authors: Shimokura Ryota , Nishimura Tadashi , Hosoi Hiroshi
Published: November 2023

Cartilage conduction is known widely as a third hearing transmission mechanism after the air and bone conduction methods, and transducers dedicated to the production of cartilage conduction sounds have been developed by several Japanese companies. To estimate the acoustic performance of the five cartilage conduction transducers selected for this study, both airborne sounds and cartilage conduction sounds were measured. Airborne sounds can be measured using a commercial condenser microphone; however, cartilage conduction sounds are impossible to measure using a conventional head and torso simulator (HATS), because the standard-issue ear pinna simulator cannot reproduce cartilage conduction sounds with the same spectral characteristics as the corresponding sounds measured in humans. Therefore, this study replaced the standard-issue simulator with a developed pinna simulator that can produce similar spectral characteristics to those of humans. The HATS manipulated in this manner realized results demonstrating that transducers that fitted the entrance to the external auditory canal more densely could produce greater cartilage conduction sounds. Among the five transducers under test, the ring-shaped device, which was not much larger than the entrance to the canal, satisfied the spectral requirements.
Vestibular Testing—New Physiological Results for the Optimization of Clinical VEMP Stimuli
Authors: Pastras Christopher J. , Curthoys Ian S.
Published: November 2023

Both auditory and vestibular primary afferent neurons can be activated by sound and vibration. This review relates the differences between them to the different receptor/synaptic mechanisms of the two systems, as shown by indicators of peripheral function—cochlear and vestibular compound action potentials (cCAPs and vCAPs)—to click stimulation as recorded in animal studies. Sound- and vibration-sensitive type 1 receptors at the striola of the utricular macula are enveloped by the unique calyx afferent ending, which has three modes of synaptic transmission. Glutamate is the transmitter for both cochlear and vestibular primary afferents; however, blocking glutamate transmission has very little effect on vCAPs but greatly reduces cCAPs. We suggest that the ultrafast non-quantal synaptic mechanism called resistive coupling is the cause of the short latency vestibular afferent responses and related results—failure of transmitter blockade, masking, and temporal precision. This “ultrafast” non-quantal transmission is effectively electrical coupling that is dependent on the membrane potentials of the calyx and the type 1 receptor. The major clinical implication is that decreasing stimulus rise time increases vCAP response, corresponding to the increased VEMP response in human subjects. Short rise times are optimal in human clinical VEMP testing, whereas long rise times are mandatory for audiometric threshold testing.
Investigation of the F* Algorithm on Strong Pseudocontractive Mappings and Its Application
Authors: Ajibade Felix D. , Nkwuda Francis Monday , Joshua Hussaini , Fajusigbe Taiwo P. , Oshinubi Kayode
Published: November 2023

In the context of uniformly convex Banach space, this paper focuses on examining the strong convergence of the F* iterative algorithm to the fixed point of a strongly pseudocontractive mapping. Furthermore, we demonstrate through numerical methods that the F* iterative algorithm converges strongly and faster than other current iterative schemes in the literature and extends to the fixed point of a strong pseudocontractive mapping. Finally, under a nonlinear quadratic Volterra integral equation, the application of our findings is shown.
Schröder-Based Inverse Function Approximation
Authors: Howard Roy M.
Published: November 2023

Schröder approximations of the first kind, modified for the inverse function approximation case, are utilized to establish general analytical approximation forms for an inverse function. Such general forms are used to establish arbitrarily accurate analytical approximations, with a set relative error bound, for an inverse function when an initial approximation, typically with low accuracy, is known. Approximations for arcsine, the inverse of x − sin(x), the inverse Langevin function and the Lambert W function are used to illustrate this approach. Several applications are detailed. For the root approximation of a function, Schröder approximations of the first kind, based on the inverse of a function, have an advantage over the corresponding generalization of the standard Newton–Raphson method, as explicit analytical expressions for all orders of approximation can be obtained.
Conversion of Unweighted Graphs to Weighted Graphs Satisfying Properties R and −SR
Authors: Shi Xiaolong , Hameed Saira , Akhter Sadia , Khan Aysha , Akhoundi Maryam
Published: November 2023

Spectral graph theory is like a special tool for understanding graphs. It helps us find patterns and connections in complex networks, using the magic of eigenvalues. Let G be the graph and A(G) be its adjacency matrix, then G is singular if the determinant of the adjacency matrix A(G) is 0, otherwise it is nonsingular. Within the realm of nonsingular graphs, there is the concept of property R, where each eigenvalue’s reciprocal is also an eigenvalue of G. By introducing multiplicity constraints on both eigenvalues and their reciprocals, it becomes property SR. Similarly, the world of nonsingular graphs reveals property −R, where the negative reciprocal of each eigenvalue also finds a place within the spectrum of G. Moreover, when the multiplicity of each eigenvalue and its negative reciprocal is equal, this results in a graph with a property of −SR. Some classes of unweighted nonbipartite graphs are already constructed in the literature with the help of the complete graph Kn and a copy of the path graph P4 satisfying property R but not SR. This article takes this a step further. The main aim is to construct several weighted classes of graphs which satisfy property R but not SR. For this purpose, the weight functions are determined that enable these nonbipartite graph classes to satisfy the −SR and R properties, even if the unweighted graph does not satisfy these properties. Some examples are presented to support the investigated results. These examples explain how certain weight functions make these special types of graphs meet the properties R or −SR, even when the original graphs without weights do not meet these properties.
Gaining a New Technological Readiness Level for Laser-Structured Electrodes in High-Capacity Lithium-Ion Pouch Cells
Authors: Meyer Alexandra , Zhu Penghui , Smith Anna , Pfleging Wilhelm
Published: November 2023

For the first time, the laser structuring of large-footprint electrodes with a loading of 4 mAh cm−2 has been validated in a relevant environment, including subsequent multi-layer stack cell assembly and electrochemical characterization of the resulting high-capacity lithium-ion pouch cell prototypes, i.e., a technological readiness level of 6 has been achieved for the 3D battery concept. The structuring was performed using a high-power ultrashort-pulsed laser, resulting in well-defined line structures in electrodes without damaging the current collector, and without melting or altering the battery active materials. For cells containing structured electrodes, higher charge and discharge capacities were measured for C-rates >1C compared to reference cells based on unstructured electrodes. In addition, cells with structured electrodes showed a three-fold increase in cycle lifetime at a C-rate of 1C compared to those with reference electrodes.
The Impact of Different Withering Process Conditions on the Bioactivity and Quality of Black Tea from Azorean Camellia sinensis
Authors: Paiva Lisete Sousa , Dias Ana Paula , Marcone Massimo Francesco , Baptista José António Bettencourt
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the variability of natural bioactive compounds, such as catechin, theaflavin, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC), of Azorean black tea (Camellia sinensis L., O. Kuntze) as well as its antioxidant activities according to different withering times. The TPC, TFC, free radical scavenging activity (FRSA), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and ferrous-ion-chelating (FIC) activities were determined by colorimetric methods, and catechin and theaflavin contents were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The FRSA shows similar results for the withering range of 6 to 16 h (hours). For FRAP, the best results were observed at 16 h, and for FIC, the highest value was at 20 h. The TPC and TFC showed the highest value at 9 h and the lowest at 20 h. For the total theaflavins, the highest results were obtained after 12 h of withering, and the lowest values were obtained at 16 and 20 h. According to the different withering times, the highest value of total catechin levels was at 12 h, while the lowest value was observed at 20 h. Regarding caffeine content, all samples presented similar results, with the exception of the 12 h time point. In conclusion, the best withering times were observed in the range of 9 to 16 h, showing decreased values at 20 h, with the exception of FIC.
Metabolic Effects on Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells and the Canonical Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Pathway
Authors: Correia Bibiana , Sousa Maria Inês , Ramalho-Santos João
Published: November 2023

Diapause-like features can be extended to naïve mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) to induce paused pluripotency by using INK128 (mTi), a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor. As a core integrative pathway, mTOR senses diverse stimuli and translates these cues to coordinate several processes. We have previously shown that the withdrawal of leucine and arginine from the culture medium of naïve mESCs can induce features of a paused-pluripotent state, including reduced cell proliferation, cell cycle arrest, and reductions in glycolytic and oxidative metabolism. However, surprisingly, although mTi did indeed provoke a paused-like state, this was distinct from and less pronounced than what resulted from leucine and arginine removal, and, according to our results, these features did not seem to necessarily be mTOR-driven. Therefore, this possibility should be considered in further experiments, and mTOR inhibition when using INK128 should always be confirmed and not merely assumed when INK128 is present in the culture medium.
Customised 3D-Printed Surgical Guide for Breast-Conserving Surgery after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Its Clinical Application
Authors: Luo Jie , Chen Feng , Cao Hong , Zhu Wei , Deng Jian , Li Dan , Li Wei , Deng Junjie , Zhong Yangyan , Feng Haigang , Li Yilin , Gong Xiongmeiyu , Zeng Jutao , Chen Jiaren
Published: November 2023

For patients eligible to undergo breast-conserving surgery (BCS) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, accurate preoperative localisation of tumours is vital to ensure adequate tumour resection that can reduce recurrence probability effectively. For this reason, we have developed a 3D-printed personalised breast surgery guide (BSG) assisted with supine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and image 3D reconstruction technology, capable of mapping the tumour area identified on MRI onto the breast directly using dual positioning based on the manubrium and nipple. In addition, the BSG allows the colour dye to be injected into the breast to mark the tumour region to be removed, yielding more accurate intraoperative resection and satisfactory cosmetic outcomes. The device has been applied to 14 patients from January 2018 to July 2023, with two positive margins revealed by the intraoperative biopsy. This study showed that the BSG-based method could facilitate precise tumour resection of BCS by accurately localising tumour extent and margin, promoting the clinical efficacy in patients with breast cancer as well as simplifying the surgical process.
Model of Oxygen Conditions within Aquaculture Sea Cages
Authors: Bergsson Heiðrikur , Svendsen Morten Bo Søndergaard , Steffensen John Fleng
Published: November 2023

To ensure optimal feed intake, growth, and general fish health in aquaculture sea cages, interactions between drivers that affect oxygen conditions need to be understood. The main drivers are oxygen consumption and water exchange, caused by flow through the cage. Swimming energetics in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in normoxia and hypoxia at 10, 15, and 20 °C were determined. Using the determinations, a conceptual model of oxygen conditions within sea cages was created. By applying the model to a case study, results show that with a temperature increase of 10 °C, oxygen concentration will decrease three times faster. To maintain optimal oxygen concentration within the cage, the flow velocity must be increased by a factor of 3.7. The model is highly relevant for current farms since the model predictions can explain why and when suboptimal conditions occur within the cages. Using the same method, the model can be used to estimate the suitability of potential new aquaculture sites.
Competitive Advantage of Broussonetia papyrifera Growing in a Native Area as Suggested by Structural Diversity
Authors: Zhou Yanrong , Zhang Guangfu
Published: November 2023

Paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) is currently an invasive species on several continents. However, little is known about whether paper mulberry has a competitive advantage over its surrounding trees in its native distribution range, subtropical regions of China. Here, we determined the relative intraspecific and interspecific competitive capacity of paper mulberry in three subtropical deciduous broad-leaved forests using the indices of structural diversity including the mixing index, the tree–tree interval index, and the diameter/height differentiation index. It was found that more than 80% of mingling index values were not greater than 0.25, suggesting a stronger competitiveness of paper mulberry relative to other tree species. The tree–tree interval index values ranged between 1 m and 2 m, suggesting a strong competition between paper mulberry and its neighbors. Moreover, more than 60% of the height differentiation index and diameter differentiation index values were positive, suggesting that the reference paper mulberry had a slight competitive advantage over neighboring trees in both the horizontal and vertical planes. These collectively suggest a competitive advantage over other tree species in the native distribution range, which may play a significant role in the ecological invasion of paper mulberry. Our findings not only help to reveal the invasion mechanism of paper mulberry, but also provide an important reference for the management and utilization of paper mulberry in invaded areas.
Shifts in the Microbial Populations of Bioleach Reactors Are Determined by Carbon Sources and Temperature
Authors: Bulaev Aleksandr , Kadnikov Vitaliy , Elkina Yulia , Beletsky Aleksey , Melamud Vitaliy , Ravin Nikolai , Mardanov Andrey
Published: November 2023

In the present study, the effect of additional carbon sources (carbon dioxide and molasses) on the bio-oxidation of a pyrite–arsenopyrite concentrate at temperatures of 40–50 °C was studied, and novel data regarding the patterns of the bio-oxidation of gold-bearing sulfide concentrates and the composition of the microbial populations performing these processes were obtained. At 40 °C, additional carbon sources did not affect the bio-oxidation efficiency. At the same time, the application of additional carbon dioxide improved the bio-oxidation performance at temperatures of 45 and 50 °C and made it possible to avoid the inhibition of bio-oxidation due to an increase in the temperature. Therefore, the use of additional carbon dioxide may be proposed to prevent the negative effect of an increase in temperature on the bio-oxidation of sulfide concentrates. 16S rRNA gene profiling revealed archaea of the family Thermoplasmataceae (Acidiplasma, Ferroplasma, Cuniculiplasma, and A-plasma group) and bacteria of the genera Leptospirillum, with Sulfobacillus and Acidithiobacillus among the dominant groups in the community. Temperature influenced the composition of the communities to a greater extent than the additional sources of carbon and the mode of operation of the bioreactor. Elevating the temperature from 40 °C to 50 °C resulted in increases in the shares of Acidiplasma and Sulfobacillus and decreases in the relative abundances of Ferroplasma, Leptospirillum, and Acidithiobacillus, while Cuniculiplasma and A-plasma were more abundant at 45 °C. A metagenomic analysis of the studied population made it possible to characterize novel archaea belonging to an uncultivated, poorly-studied group of Thermoplasmatales which potentially plays an important role in the bio-oxidation process. Based on an analysis of the complete genome, we propose describing the novel species and novel genus as “Candidatus Carboxiplasma ferriphilum” gen. nov., spec. nov.
Mass Start or Time Trial? Structure of the Nervous System and Neuroregeneration in Pygospio elegans (Spionidae, Annelida)
Authors: Shunkina Ksenia V. , Starunova Zinaida I. , Novikova Elena L. , Starunov Viktor V.
Published: November 2023

The spionid worm Pygospio elegans is a convenient model for regeneration studies due to its accessibility, high tolerance, and ease of maintenance in laboratory culture. This article presents the findings regarding neuroregeneration and the structure of the nervous system based on antibody labeling of serotonin and FMRFamide. We propose the main stages of central nervous system neurogenesis during regeneration: single nerve fibers, a loop structure, and neurons in the brain and segmental ganglia. Nerve fibers and receptor cells of the peripheral nerve system can be traced to different stages of regeneration. We also provide a comparison of our results with previous data on the structure and regeneration of the nervous system based on antibody labeling of catecholamines, gamma-aminobutyric acid, and histamine and with the results for other annelids.
Coping with Water Stress: Ameliorative Effects of Combined Treatments of Salicylic Acid and Glycine Betaine on the Biometric Traits and Water-Use Efficiency of Onion (Allium cepa) Cultivated under Deficit Drip Irrigation
Authors: Mugwanya Muziri , Kimera Fahad , Abdelnaser Anwar , Sewilam Hani
Published: November 2023

Freshwater scarcity is a major global challenge threatening food security. Agriculture requires huge quantities of water to feed the ever-increasing human population. Sustainable irrigation techniques such as deficit drip irrigation (DDI) are warranted to increase efficiency and maximize yield. However, DDI has been reported to cause water stress in plants. The study aimed to investigate the influence of the exogenous application of salicylic acid alone (SA) or in combination with glycine betaine (GB) on the growth, yield quality, and water-use efficiency of onions under different DDI treatments (100%, 70%, and 40% field capacity (FC)). Spray treatments (sub-treatments) were as follows: T1: (distilled water), T2: (1.09 mM SA), T3: (1.09 mM SA + 25 mM GB), T4: (1.09 mM SA + 50 mM GB), and T5: (1.09 mM SA + 100 mM GB). Our results indicated that T2 slightly ameliorated the effects of water stress by improved plant heights, leaf number, pseudostem diameter, bulb quality, and nutrient content of onion bulbs, especially under the 70% FC treatment. However, T3 recorded the poorest results on leaf number, pseudostem diameter, and bulb quality under the 70% and 40% FC treatments. Generally, our results indicated that onions could tolerate moderate water stress (70% FC) without severely affecting the growth and yield of onion. In conditions where freshwater is a limiting factor, a DDI treatment of 40% FC is recommended.
Differential Expression of MicroRNA (MiR-27, MiR-145) among Dental Pulp Stem Cells (DPSCs) Following Neurogenic Differentiation Stimuli
Authors: Bassett Charlton , Triplett Hunter , Lott Keegan , Howard Katherine M. , Kingsley Karl
Published: November 2023

This study sought to evaluate the expression of previously identified microRNAs known to regulate neuronal differentiation in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), including miR-27, miR-125, miR-128, miR-135, miR-140, miR-145, miR-218 and miR-410, among dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) under conditions demonstrated to induce neuronal differentiation. Using an approved protocol, n = 12 DPSCs were identified from an existing biorepository and treated with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF), which were previously demonstrated to induce neural differentiation markers including Sox1, Pax6 and NFM among these DPSCs. This study revealed that some microRNAs involved in the neuronal differentiation of MSCs were also differentially expressed among the DPSCs, including miR-27 and miR-145. In addition, this study also revealed that administration of bFGF and EGF was sufficient to modulate miR-27 and miR-145 expression in all of the stimulus-responsive DPSCs but not among all of the non-responsive DPSCs—suggesting that further investigation of the downstream targets of these microRNAs may be needed to fully evaluate and understand these observations.
The Presence of Communicating Arteries in the Circle of Willis Is Associated with Higher Rate of Functional Recovery after Anterior Circulation Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Sablić Sara , Dolić Krešimir , Kraljević Ivan , Budimir Mršić Danijela , Čičmir-Vestić Mate , Benzon Benjamin , Lovrić Kojundžić Sanja , Marinović Guić Maja
Published: November 2023

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is the world’s second leading cause of mortality. An established method for treating stroke patients in acute settings is endovascular therapy (EVT). However, the correlation of the successful endovascular treatment of AIS with the presence of communicating arteries in the circle of Willis needs to be proven. Our study examined clinical and radiological data of 158 consecutive patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy (MT) at our comprehensive stroke center. We analyzed their CT angiograms and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) to assess anatomical variants of Willis’ circle and formed two groups—collateral-negative and collateral-positive group. The first group included patients with aplasia of both anterior (ACoA) and posterior communicating Artery (PCoA). The second group included patients that have at least one communicating artery (either anterior or posterior). We evaluated their reperfusion outcomes and functional recovery three months later. Our results showed that patients with communicating arteries had smaller areas of infarction on post-interventional CT and higher rates of functional recovery (Modified Rankin Score). The ACoA had a higher impact on early and late outcomes, confirmed by lower control CT scores and more favorable functional recovery. Therefore, anatomic variants of Willis’ circle should be considered as a significant prognostic factor in AIS.
Nanoparticle Formulations of Antioxidants for the Management of Oxidative Stress in Stroke: A Review
Authors: Salatin Sara , Farhoudi Mehdi , Farjami Afsaneh , Maleki Dizaj Solmaz , Sharifi Simin , Shahi Shahriar
Published: November 2023

Stroke is currently one of the primary causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Unfortunately, there has been a lack of effective stroke treatment. Therefore, novel treatment strategies are needed to decrease stroke-induced morbidity and promote the patient’s quality of life. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been recognized as one of the major causes of brain injury after ischemic stroke. Antioxidant therapy seems to be an effective treatment in the management of oxidative stress relevant to inflammatory disorders like stroke. However, the in vivo efficacy of traditional anti-oxidative substances is greatly limited due to their non-specific distribution and poor localization in the disease region. In recent years, antioxidant nanoparticles (NPs) have demonstrated a clinical breakthrough for stroke treatment. Some NPs have intrinsic antioxidant properties and act as antioxidants to scavenge ROS. Moreover, NPs provide protection to the antioxidant agents/enzymes while effectively delivering them into unreachable areas like the brain. Because of their nanoscale dimensions, NPs are able to efficiently pass through the BBB, and easily reach the damaged site. Here, we discuss the challenges, recent advances, and perspectives of antioxidant NPs in stroke treatment.
Plasmonic Nanoparticle-Enhanced Optical Techniques for Cancer Biomarker Sensing
Authors: Fu Li , Lin Cheng-Te , Karimi-Maleh Hassan , Chen Fei , Zhao Shichao
Published: November 2023

This review summarizes recent advances in leveraging localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) nanotechnology for sensitive cancer biomarker detection. LSPR arising from noble metal nanoparticles under light excitation enables the enhancement of various optical techniques, including surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), dark-field microscopy (DFM), photothermal imaging, and photoacoustic imaging. Nanoparticle engineering strategies are discussed to optimize LSPR for maximum signal amplification. SERS utilizes electromagnetic enhancement from plasmonic nanostructures to boost inherently weak Raman signals, enabling single-molecule sensitivity for detecting proteins, nucleic acids, and exosomes. DFM visualizes LSPR nanoparticles based on scattered light color, allowing for the ultrasensitive detection of cancer cells, microRNAs, and proteins. Photothermal imaging employs LSPR nanoparticles as contrast agents that convert light to heat, producing thermal images that highlight cancerous tissues. Photoacoustic imaging detects ultrasonic waves generated by LSPR nanoparticle photothermal expansion for deep-tissue imaging. The multiplexing capabilities of LSPR techniques and integration with microfluidics and point-of-care devices are reviewed. Remaining challenges, such as toxicity, standardization, and clinical sample analysis, are examined. Overall, LSPR nanotechnology shows tremendous potential for advancing cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment monitoring through the integration of nanoparticle engineering, optical techniques, and microscale device platforms.
Collision Enhanced Raman Scattering (CERS): An Ultra-High Efficient Raman Enhancement Technique for Hollow Core Photonic Crystal Fiber Based Raman Spectroscopy Gas Analyzer
Authors: Shirmohammad Maryam , Short Michael A. , Zeng Haishan
Published: November 2023

Raman enhancement techniques are essential for gas analysis to increase the detection sensitivity of a Raman spectroscopy system. We have developed an efficient Raman enhancement technique called the collision-enhanced Raman scattering (CERS), where the active Raman gas as the analyte is mixed with a buffer gas inside the hollow-core photonic-crystal fiber (HCPCF) of a fiber-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (FERS) system. This results in an enhanced Raman signal from the analyte gas. In this study, we first showed that the intensity of the 587 cm−1 stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) peak of H2 confined in an HCPCF is enhanced by as much as five orders of magnitude by mixing with a buffer gas such as helium or N2. Secondly, we showed that the magnitudes of Raman enhancement depend on the type of buffer gas, with helium being more efficient compared to N2. This makes helium a favorable buffer gas for CERS. Thirdly, we applied CERS for Raman measurements of propene, a metabolically interesting volatile organic compound (VOC) with an association to lung cancer. CERS resulted in a substantial enhancement of propene Raman peaks. In conclusion, the CERS we developed is a simple and efficient Raman-enhancing mechanism for improving gas analysis. It has great potential for application in breath analysis for lung cancer detection.
Affective Prosody and Its Impact on the Neurology of Language, Depression, Memory and Emotions
Authors: Ross Elliott D.
Published: November 2023

Based on the seminal publications of Paul Broca and Carl Wernicke who established that aphasic syndromes (disorders of the verbal–linguistic aspects of communication) were predominantly the result of focal left-hemisphere lesions, “language” is traditionally viewed as a lateralized function of the left hemisphere. This, in turn, has diminished and delayed the acceptance that the right hemisphere also has a vital role in language, specifically in modulating affective prosody, which is essential for communication competency and psychosocial well-being. Focal lesions of the right hemisphere may result in disorders of affective prosody (aprosodic syndromes) that are functionally and anatomically analogous to the aphasic syndromes that occur following focal left-hemisphere lesions. This paper will review the deductive research published over the last four decades that has elucidated the neurology of affective prosody which, in turn, has led to a more complete and nuanced understanding of the neurology of language, depression, emotions and memory. In addition, the paper will also present the serendipitous clinical observations (inductive research) and fortuitous inter-disciplinary collaborations that were crucial in guiding and developing the deductive research processes that culminated in the concept that primary emotions and related display behaviors are a lateralized function of the right hemisphere and social emotions, and related display behaviors are a lateralized function of the left hemisphere.
Feasibility of Virtual Shopping Budget-Management Training on Executive Functions in Healthy Young Adults: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lee Si-An , Kim Ji-Yea , Park Jin-Hyuck
Published: November 2023

To date, budget management in virtual shopping training has not been given much importance. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of virtual shopping budget-management training on executive functions and brain activation. Sixteen participants were randomly assigned to the experimental group that received virtual shopping budget-management training or the waitlist control group for a total of 16 sessions. To examine the effects of virtual shopping budget-management training on brain activation, HbO2 was measured in the prefrontal cortex via functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) during the Trail Making Test Part B (TMT-B) and Stroop test. Mann–Whitney and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to compare outcomes between and within the two groups. The virtual shopping budget-management training showed no significant difference in all outcomes between both groups (p > 0.05). No significant differences were observed in HbO2 levels during both TMT-B (p > 0.05) and the Stroop test (p > 0.05). However, in the pre-post comparisons, there was a significant difference in the TMT-B (p < 0.05) and Stroop test (p < 0.05) in the experimental group. In this study, although we did not find a distinct advantage in training, it confirmed its potential for clinical benefits in healthy young adults through training.
Development and Validation of the “Lying Flat” Tendency Scale for the Youth
Authors: Lu Huanhua , Hou Jun , Huang Anqi , Wang Jinli , Kong Feng
Published: November 2023

In recent years, “lying flat” has been enthusiastically pursued by young people in China, and it is worth studying its cause and social impact. However, there is still a lack of measurement tools that can scientifically evaluate an individual’s tendency for “lying flat.” In this study, a 6-item “Lying Flat” Tendency Scale was developed and cross-validated for reliability and validity in different samples from China. The findings demonstrated that the scale showed good internal consistency in three different samples; both exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis supported the single dimension model of the scale, indicating good construct validity; the LFTS total score was negatively correlated with the satisfaction of basic psychological needs, happiness index, and positive emotions, and was positively correlated with negative emotions; simultaneously, the LFTS total score was also significantly positively correlated with the choice of “lying flat” behavior in the simulated situation. These results show that the scale has good validity and reliability, and can be used as a measuring tool for subsequent empirical research. It will help to promote the development of empirical research on the phenomenon of “lying flat”, help to understand the causes and consequences of “lying flat” more deeply, and also help to find effective ways to help young people break out of the “lying flat” dilemma.
Research on the Improvement Path of Prefabricated Buildings’ Supply Chain Resilience Based on Structural Equation Modeling: A Case Study of Shenyang and Hangzhou, China
Authors: Qi Yizhuoyan , Li Lihong , Kong Fanwen
Published: November 2023

Due to increasing cost and decreasing labor, prefabricated buildings have developed rapidly. With the prolongation of prefabricated buildings’ supply chain (PBSC) and an increase in risk factors, project delays and even interruptions occur occasionally. The difficulty of supply chain management is increasing. Supply chain resilience (SCR) as a risk management tool has gradually attracted the attention of scholars. This paper uses the grounded theory to identify the influencing factors of prefabricated buildings’ supply chain resilience (PBSCR) based on the dynamic capacity theory. By collecting questionnaires from relevant stakeholders in Shenyang and Hangzhou, a structural equation model (SEM) was used to test the research hypothesis. The capacity effect relationship of the PBSC was constructed. The results show that resilient capability has the highest direct effect on the improvement in PBSCR, and collaborative capability has the highest total and indirect effect on the improvement in PBSCR. The critical paths to improving PBSCR were then identified. Suggestions were made based on the calculated effect relationships. This paper is expected to improve PBSCR, enrich the research on supply chains in the construction field, and help better realize the stable development of prefabricated buildings.
Local Climate Zone in Xi’an City: A Novel Classification Approach Employing Spatial Indicators and Supervised Classification
Authors: Xu Duo , Zhang Qian , Zhou Dian , Yang Yujun , Wang Yiquan , Rogora Alessandro
Published: November 2023

The Local Climate Zone (LCZ), as a foundational element of urban climate zone classification proposed by Oke and Stewart, categorizes urban surface types based on 10 influential parameters affecting the urban heat island effect, such as building density, surface reflectivity, sky view factor, and surface roughness length. This method divides cities into 17 different Local Climate Zones (LCZs) to standardize climate observations and promote global climate research exchange, offering valuable insights for heat island studies. In this study, we enhance the existing local climate zones spatial classification approach by focusing on Xi’an city’s urban layout and architectural features. By using urban spatial indicators and employing a supervised classification approach and a spatial clustering method with land parcels as statistical units, we investigate typical urban areas and classify Xi’an’s land parcels into 17 or 15 distinct local climate zones. Subsequently, through the evaluation of two distinct classification methods, the most suitable urban microclimate zoning method for Xi’an city was selected. This optimization of the local climate zoning representation introduces a spatial classification method tailored to urban climate planning and control, utilizing urban spatial indicators and remote sensing data. The resulting urban climate zoning map not only supports sample selection for urban heat environment parameter observation but also aids urban planners in identifying spatial distribution patterns for climate zoning.