bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Institutions as a Fundamental Cause for Long-Run Sustainability
Authors: El Maachi Soukaina , Saadane Rachid , Chehri Abdellah
Published: February 2025

The development of sustainable societies relies upon the institutional structures that govern the relationship between economic systems and environmental leadership. In this study, we engage with the juxtaposition between inclusive and extractive institutions as potential molders of the trajectory of sustainability. Featuring governance indicators and economic metrics, we explore the impact of institutional inclusiveness and extractiveness on sustainability outcomes. Inclusiveness, which enables the prosperity of collective well-being through democratic governance, legal integrity, and innovation, is posited as an affirmative force for sustainability. In contrast, extractive institutions, which concentrate power and resources, hinder the realization of sustainable development by perpetuating inequality and exploitation. This paper suggests a statistic pipeline, comprised of econometric regression, machine learning models, and clustering analysis, to assess the impact of governance and economic performance on sustainability indices. We posit that inclusiveness serves as a potent driver for sustainability, particularly when coupled with economic resources, whereas extractiveness leads to the attenuation of sustainable progress. Through this work, we aim to gauge how institutions can either hinder or propel the material conditions necessary for the achievement of sustainability.
Legacy Vegetation and Drainage Features Influence Sediment Dynamics and Tidal Wetland Recovery After Managed Dyke Realignment
Authors: Crowell Samantha , Elliott Megan , Nichols Kailey , van Proosdij Danika , Poirier Emma , Graham Jennie , Bowron Tony , Lundholm Jeremy
Published: February 2025

Managed dyke realignment (MR) is a nature-based technique that shifts dyke systems farther inland, allowing for restoration of tidal flow and tidal wetland vegetation. While restoration of tidal flow can result in rapid sediment accretion and vegetation recovery, dykelands on the east coast of Canada are often agricultural, with legacy vegetation and ditches present upon initiation of MR. We combined measurements of sediment flux and accretion, digital surface and drainage network models, and vegetation mapping to understand the effects of legacy features on geomorphological evolution and restoration trajectory at a Bay of Fundy MR site. Removal of legacy vegetation and channels in a borrow pit allowed comparison with unaltered areas. Magnitudes of volumetric change from erosion at the channel mouth were similar to gains on the borrow pit, suggesting that channel mouth erosion could represent a significant sediment subsidy for restoring the marsh platform. Pre-existing pasture vegetation is likely to have slowed wetland vegetation establishment, suggesting that mowing prior to MR may speed recovery. Repeated high resolution vertically precise aerial surveys allowed understanding of the effects of elevation and proximity to the drainage network on spatial and temporal variability in marsh surface elevation increase and vegetation recovery.
Dynamic Mode Decomposition via Polynomial Root-Finding Methods
Authors: Nedzhibov Gyurhan
Published: February 2025

Dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) is a powerful data-driven tool for analyzing complex systems that has gained significant attention in various scientific and engineering disciplines. It is suitable for the analysis of flow structures in numerical and experimental data, being widely used to extract temporal information about coherent data structures. In this work, we present a novel modification to the standard DMD algorithm by integrating polynomial root-finding methods, enhancing its accuracy and computational efficiency. Our approach leverages iterative techniques for solving polynomial equations to refine the extraction of DMD eigenvalues and DMD modes, resulting in more accurate dynamical reconstructions. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the modified DMD through several case studies, showing the broad scope of applicability of the introduced technique.
Ameliorative Effect of Sipunculus nudus Hydrolysate on Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity by Mitigating Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Apoptosis
Authors: Tao Susu , Qi Yi , Gao Jialong , Yuan Huafang , Wang Ruimin , Shen Xiaoqin , Wei Gang , Peng Zhilan
Published: February 2025

The present study investigated the protective effects and possible mechanisms of an ultrafiltration fraction of Sipunculus nudus hydrolysate (UFSH) on cisplatin-induced kidney damage in a mouse model. The results showed that UFSH significantly attenuated cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by inhibiting increases in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (SCr). Additionally, UFSH treatment significantly alleviated cisplatin-induced renal histopathological changes, such as significant dilation of renal tubules, cast formation, and tubular cell necrosis, as well as tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Moreover, UFSH decreased cisplatin-induced oxidative stress by increasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD and GSH-Px, while reducing the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the kidney. Furthermore, UFSH significantly inhibited cisplatin-induced increases in inflammatory cytokines, including Interleukin 1-beta (IL-1β), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Western blotting revealed that UFSH inhibited the phosphorylation of the inflammation-associated MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway, lowered the expression of the apoptosis-related protein Bax, and reversed the reduction in the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein. This investigation demonstrated that UFSH can ameliorate cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by mitigating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.
Evaluation of Coronary Artery Luminal Diameters in Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Yildirim Ufuk , Taskin Gulten , Baser Meliyke Hatun , Tugmen Burak , Yaliniz Busranur , Camlidag Ilkay , Meric Murat
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Recent studies have demonstrated that pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a vascular disease that extends beyond the pulmonary vasculature. PAH has been associated with increased intramural coronary arteriolar medial thickness and decreased coronary arteriolar luminal area in both human and experimental models of the disease. The objective of this study was to assess the luminal diameter of epicardial coronary arteries in patients with PAH. Materials and Methods: Fifty patients with PAH who underwent cardiac computed tomography (CT) angiography at our center were included in this retrospective study. Fifty patients without pulmonary hypertension matched for age, sex, and coronary dominance were also included. Coronary artery luminal diameters measured by cardiac CT angiography were compared between the groups, in addition to baseline characteristics and standard cardiac measurements. Correlation analysis was also performed. Results: The diameters of the left main coronary artery, left anterior descending artery, and left circumflex artery were comparable between the groups. However, the right coronary artery (RCA) diameter was found to be greater in the PAH group (3.51 ± 0.66 mm vs. 3.02 ± 0.49 mm, p < 0.001). The RCA diameter exhibited a positive moderate correlation with the main pulmonary artery diameter (R = 0.517, p < 0.001), right atrial area (R = 0.515, p < 0.001), and right ventricular diastolic diameter (R = 0.506, p < 0.001). Conclusion: PAH may be associated with an increase in the RCA diameter.
Presence and Evolution of Radiological Changes at 6 and 12 Months After COVID-19 Pneumonia and Their Risk Factors
Authors: Roig-Martí Celia , Navarro-Ballester Antonio , Fernández-García María-Pilar , Pérez-Catalán Ignacio , Segura-Fábrega Ana , Varea-Villanueva María , Folgado-Escudero Sofía , Herrero-Rodríguez Germán , Domínguez-Bajo Elena , Fabra-Juana Sergio , Esteve-Gimeno María-José , Mateu-Campos María-Lidón , Usó-Blasco Jorge , Ramos-Rincón José-Manuel
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: The pulmonary sequelae of COVID-19 and their evolution are of interest to the scientific community. We aimed to determine the radiological changes at 6 and 12 months after COVID-19 pneumonia, its evolution and its risk factors. Materials and Methods: This retrospective longitudinal study included adults admitted for COVID-19 pneumonia from 1 March 2020 to 30 April 2021 who had a high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan at 6 months and 12 months after hospital discharge. The primary outcome was the appearance of radiological abnormalities on HRCT and the number of lung segments affected by them at 6 and 12 months, while the main explanatory variables were about the disease course, analytical parameters and treatment. Results: This study included n = 108 patients, with a mean age of 64 years. There was a decrease in the percentage of patients presenting parenchymal (93.5% to 88.9%, p < 0.001) and reticular (63% to 62%, p < 0.001) patterns on HRCT at 12 months compared to 6, and an increase in those presenting a fibrotic pattern (62% to 63.9%, p < 0.001). Ground-glass opacities were the most frequent radiological change at 6 and 12 months (91.7% and 87%, respectively). There was a significant reduction in the total number of lung segments with ground-glass opacities (445 to 382, p < 0.001) and consolidation (158 to 136, p = 0.019) and an increase in those with bronchiectasis (66 to 80, p = 0.033) between the two moments. After multivariate analysis, high-flow oxygen therapy (HFOT), highest ferritin levels, hypertension and ≥71 years showed an association with the development of subpleural parenchymal bands, consolidation, bronchiectasis and septal thickening at 6 and 12 months. Conclusions: Parenchymal patterns seem to be more frequent than reticular and fibrotic patterns after COVID-19 pneumonia. The fibrotic pattern was the only one that worsened significantly over time, with bronchiectasis being the only change that increased at 12 months. Older age, hypertension, the need for HFOT, and high levels of ferritin may be directly associated with worse radiological outcomes after COVID-19 pneumonia.
The Efficacy of Polydioxanone Sutures in Treating Mild-to-Moderate Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lee Eun-Ju , Kim Hyoung-Ye , Lee Dong-Woo , Kwon Sai-Won
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: This meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy of polydioxanone (PDO) suture, a non-surgical treatment for knee osteoarthritis, with intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) injections. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using major databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, KoreaMed, KMBASE, and RISS. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to 30 April 2024, focusing on knee osteoarthritis, pain, PDO suture, and intra-articular injections, were included. A total of 10 RCTs were analyzed, with participants having Kellgren & Lawrence Grade II-III knee osteoarthritis. This study compared the pain relief effects of PDO suture and HA injections. Results: The meta-analysis results showed that PDO suture demonstrated consistent and significant pain reduction over a 30-week observation period (p < 0.05), while HA injections did not exhibit statistically significant pain relief. Conclusions: PDO sutures offer the potential for long-term pain management in patients with knee osteoarthritis. However, this study has limitations such as the heterogeneity among studies, and given that the efficacy of PDO sutures is based on a single study, further research is needed to establish the long-term safety profile of polydioxanone sutures and to ensure the generalizability of the findings.
Reaction Behavior of Biochar Composite Briquette Under H2-N2 Atmosphere: Experimental Study
Authors: Zhang Ting , Liu Yan , Tang Huiqing
Published: February 2025

Charging biochar composite briquettes (BCBs) and the injection of hydrogen-rich gas into the blast furnace (BF) are two efficient methods for reducing CO2 emission in BF ironmaking. This study investigated the reaction behavior of BCBs under a hydrogen-rich atmosphere to explore the potential combination of these two methods for enhanced CO2 emission reduction efficiency in the BF. The employed BCB had a chemical composition of 52.57 wt.% Fe3O4, 24.54 wt.% FeO, 0.98 wt.% Fe, 13.16 wt.% C, and 8.75 wt.% gangue. Isothermal BCB reaction tests were conducted using a custom-design thermogravimetric device under temperatures ranging from 1173 K to 1373 K and under an atmosphere of N2-H2 with a H2 content from 25 vol.% to 75 vol.%. A mathematical model was developed for the kinetics of the BCB reaction behavior under the H2-N2 atmosphere. Results showed that the developed model was adequate in predicting the reaction behavior of BCB. Under an atmosphere of 50 vol.% H2-N2, increasing the temperature from 1173 K to 1373 K resulted in a decrease in the fraction of iron-oxide oxygen removed by hydrogen from 62% to 26% and an increase in the fraction removed by biochar from 29% to 72%, indicating that hydrogen is the primary reducing agent under low temperatures, whereas, under high temperatures, biochar plays a more significant role. Under a constant temperature of 1273 K, increasing the H2 content in the atmosphere from 25 vol.% to 75 vol.% led to an increase in the fraction of iron-oxide oxygen removed by hydrogen from 37% to 45%, and a decrease in the fraction removed by biochar from 57% to 53%, suggesting that a higher H2 content enhances the iron oxide reduction by hydrogen but has little impact on the reduction by biochar. In the reaction process, the main products were CO and H2O, the iron oxide reduction occurred more rapidly near the center than near the surface, whereas the gasification of biochar followed the opposite trend. The structural transformation of the BCB progressed from sinter iron oxides into the metallic iron network in the reaction.
The Direct Carbonation Behavior of Steel Slag with CO2-Containing Water Vapor
Authors: Fan Yuewen , Liang Wanting , Hu Xiaojun
Published: February 2025

Steel slag, which is the industrial waste produced by the steel-making process, contains more than 4% unstable free calcium oxide, which limits its applications. The problem of CO2 emission also needs to be solved; steel slag carbonation can not only achieve CO2 emission reduction, but also improve the stability of the steel slag. In this paper, the carbonation of steel slag at different temperatures and reaction times was investigated by combining mass balance analysis, XRD, and SEM observation. The results showed that, based on the thermodynamic analysis, a temperature of less than 1100 K is more appropriate for carbonation reactions. The carbonation of steel slag increases as the temperature increases within a certain range. Under the condition of the mixture of carbon dioxide and water vapor as the carbonation atmosphere for 30 min, the carbonation efficiency at 973 K was shown to be better than that of 873 K; additionally, the carbonation ratio was higher, and the efficiency of further heating to 1073 K decreased. At 973 K, the effect of carbonate formation for 30 min was better than that of 15 min, and when the carbonation time was increased to 45 min, the carbonation efficiency decreased. Moreover, the carbonation process can make the microstructure of steel slag more compact and reduce the particle size.
From Direct Numerical Simulations to Data-Driven Models: Insights into Mean Velocity Profiles and Turbulent Stresses in Channel Flows
Authors: Palasis Apostolos , Liakopoulos Antonios , Sofiadis George
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we compare three mathematical models for the mean velocity and Reynolds stress profiles for fully developed pressure-driven turbulent channel flow with the aim of assessing the level of accuracy of each model. Each model is valid over the whole boundary layer thickness (0 ≤y≤ δ), and it is formulated in terms of a law of the wall and a law of the wake. To calibrate the mathematical models, we use data obtained by direct numerical simulations (DNS) of pressure-driven turbulent channel flow in the range 182 ≤Reτ≤ 10,049. The models selected for performance evaluation are two models (Musker’s and AL84) originally developed based on high Reynolds boundary layer experimental data and Luchini’s model, which was developed when some DNS data were also available for wall-bounded turbulent flows. Differences are quantified in terms of local relative or absolute errors. Luchini’s model outperforms the other two models in the “low” and “intermediate” Reynolds number cases (Reτ= 182 to 5186). However, for the “high” Reynolds number cases (Reτ= 8016 and Reτ= 10,049). Luchini’s model exhibits larger errors than the other two models. Both Musker’s and AL84 models exhibit comparable accuracy levels when compared with the DNS datasets, and their performance improves as the Reynolds number increases.
Study on Demulsification via Vacuum Filtration with Superamphiphilic Diatomite/G-C3N4/Rice Husk Charcoal Composite Filter Layer
Authors: Wang Yue , Chen Tianxin , Jia Yu , Qin Feng , Gao Junhui , Zhang Xingyang , He Jiahong , He Jian
Published: February 2025

The primary extraction way for unconventional oil/gas resources is hydraulic fracturing to alter the reservoir for commercial production. However, hydraulic fracturing technology consumes a large amount of water, and the flowback water can easily be mixed with hydrocarbon substances to form emulsions. To achieve the recycling of water, it is necessary to develop an efficient continuous demulsification method for treating the flowback fluid. In this study, a composite filtration layer with superhydrophilic and superoleophilic properties was successfully prepared using water-based polyurethane as a binder. The g-C3N4 was used to improve the affinity of the filtration layer to water and oil. The diatomite and rice husk carbon were used as an adsorbent and a filter aid, respectively. The contact angles (CA) of both oil and water on the surface of the filtration layer were measured to be 0°. During the demulsification process, vacuum filtration was employed to increase the pressure difference across the filtration layer, thereby improving the treatment flux of flowback fluid. The experimental results showed that the filtration flux with the addition of rice husk charcoal increased from 160.58 L∙m−2∙h−1 to 174.68 L∙m−2∙h−1 compared to the filter layer without rice husk charcoal. Based on the composite filtration layer, the apparent demulsification efficiency exceeded 90.6% for various types of emulsion. The mechanism of demulsification was investigated by the molecular dynamics method. The results showed that the adsorption layer density of water molecules reached 1.5 g/cm3, and the adsorption layer density of oil molecules exceeded 2.5 g/cm3. The porous structure wall has a strong adsorption effect on both oil and water molecules, resulting in deformation and destruction of the oil–water interface, so that the dispersed phase is adsorbed and aggregated by the filter layer at the same time and permeates from the filter layer after reaching saturation, thus separating the two phases.
Tracking Migraine Symptoms: A Longitudinal Comparison of Smartphone-Based Headache Diaries and Clinical Interviews
Authors: Vandenbussche Nicolas , Van Der Donckt Jonas , De Brouwer Mathias , Steenwinckel Bram , Stojchevska Marija , Ongenae Femke , Van Hoecke Sofie , Paemeleire Koen
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: By leveraging the capabilities of a smartphone-based headache diary, the objective of this study was to determine the amount of agreement between migraine-associated symptomatology during headache events and the symptoms documented during clinician-led intake interviews. Methods: This was a 90-day longitudinal, smartphone-based headache calendar study for participants diagnosed with migraine. Registered headache events were labeled as “definite migraine”, “probable migraine”, and “not migraine” in accordance with the International Classification of Headache Disorders, Third Edition (ICHD-3) criteria. Symptoms’ agreement with clinician-led intake interviews (agreement percentages and kappa coefficients), symptoms’ similarity between headache events within users (percentage), and amount of newly registered ICHD-3 symptoms per participant were calculated. Results: Twenty-seven participants provided 505 headache events eligible for analysis. The median agreement between recorded headache event symptomatology and clinician-led intake interview phenotyping ranged between 40% (for events fulfilling “not migraine” criteria) and 55.5% (“definite migraine”) (p < 0.001). Higher intraparticipant headache event pair similarity was observed for “definite migraine” pairs (p < 0.01), along with a decreasing trend in similarity as the attack-pair headache distance increases. Over half of the participants registered at least one new ICHD-3 symptom during the study. Conclusions: Electronic diary registrations show substantial longitudinal variability in intrapersonal headache symptomatology, with the similarity of headache events declining over time. The registration of a new ICHD-3 symptom was the rule rather than the exception.
Identification and Phylogenetic Analysis of Flavobacterium spp. Associated with Aquaculture Fish Diseased from Brazil
Authors: Janampa-Sarmiento Peter Charrie , Costa Henrique Lopes , Rosa Júlio César Câmara , Tavares Guilherme Campos , Figueiredo Henrique César Pereira
Published: February 2025

Due to the recent taxonomic reclassification of the species Flavobacterium columnare into four new species—Flavobacterium columnare, Flavobacterium davisii, Flavobacterium covae, and Flavobacterium oreochromis—it is necessary to re-evaluate isolates of previous outbreaks to better understand the epidemiology related to this bacterial group. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the taxonomic profile of Brazilian isolates of Flavobacterium spp. associated with columnaris disease using available diagnostic methods. Fifty isolates from different outbreaks (17 clinical cases) occurring in five different Brazilian states previously identified as F. columnare were selected and identified by multiplex PCR and MALDI-ToF methods. In addition, at least one isolate from each clinical case was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. After inclusion of the MSPs (main spectra profiles), the isolates were identifiable, and when compared with the multiplex PCR results, they showed almost perfect agreement (94.2% Kappa = 0.85). Only F. davisii, F. covae, and F. oreochromis were found among the Brazilian isolates, with these species causing disease in neotropical fish hosts not previously reported (e.g., Siluriformes, Serrasalmidae, and Bryconidae), while F. columnare was not detected. This study provides evidence of Flavobacterium species associated with columnaris disease circulating in various aquaculture facilities across different regions of Brazil. This information is crucial for developing control programs and advancing epidemiologic studies on columnaris disease in Brazilian aquaculture.
Small-Molecule Inhibitors of Amyloid Beta: Insights from Molecular Dynamics—Part A: Endogenous Compounds and Repurposed Drugs
Authors: Atanasova Mariyana
Published: February 2025

The amyloid hypothesis is the predominant model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis, suggesting that amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide is the primary driver of neurotoxicity and a cascade of pathological events in the central nervous system. Aβ aggregation into oligomers and deposits triggers various processes, such as vascular damage, inflammation-induced astrocyte and microglia activation, disrupted neuronal ionic homeostasis, oxidative stress, abnormal kinase and phosphatase activity, tau phosphorylation, neurofibrillary tangle formation, cognitive dysfunction, synaptic loss, cell death, and, ultimately, dementia. Molecular dynamics (MD) is a powerful structure-based drug design (SBDD) approach that aids in understanding the properties, functions, and mechanisms of action or inhibition of biomolecules. As the only method capable of simulating atomic-level internal motions, MD provides unique insights that cannot be obtained through other techniques. Integrating experimental data with MD simulations allows for a more comprehensive understanding of biological processes and molecular interactions. This review summarizes and evaluates MD studies from the past decade on small molecules, including endogenous compounds and repurposed drugs, that inhibit amyloid beta. Furthermore, it outlines key considerations for future MD simulations of amyloid inhibitors, offering a potential framework for studies aimed at elucidating the mechanisms of amyloid beta inhibition by small molecules.
Red Algae Alters Expression of Inflammatory Pathways in an Osteoarthritis In Vitro Co-Culture
Authors: Heffernan Shane M. , Waldron Mark , Meldrum Kirsty , Evans Stephen J. , Conway Gillian E.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions and significantly contributes to local and global disease burden. Common pharmaceuticals that are used to treat OA cause significant side effects, thus non-pharmaceutical bioactive alternatives have been developed that can impact OA symptoms without severe side-effects. One such alternative is the Red Algae Lithothamnion species (Litho). However, there is little mechanistic knowledge of its potential to effect OA gene expression, and a human in vitro model using commercially available cell lines to test its effectiveness has yet to be developed. Methods: Human osteoblast (hFOB 1.19. CRL-11372) and chondrocyte (C28/I2) cell lines were co-cultured indirectly using transwells. IL1-β was used to induce an inflammatory state and gene expression profiles following treatment were the primary outcome. Conclusions: Results indicated that the model was physiologically relevant, remained viable over at least seven days, untreated or following induction of an inflammatory state while maintaining hFOB 1.19. and C28/I2 cell phenotypic characteristics. Following treatment, Litho reduced the expression of inflammatory and pain associated genes, most notably IL-1β, IL-6, PTGS2 (COX-2) and C1qTNF2 (CTRP2). Confirmatory analysis with droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) revealed that Il-1β induced a significant reduction in C1qTNF2 at 7 days which was ameliorated with Litho treatment. These data present a novel and replicable co-culture model of inflammatory OA that can be used to investigate bioactive nutraceuticals. For the first time, this model demonstrated a reduction in C1qTNF2 expression that was mitigated by Red Algae Lithothamnion species.
Metronidazole-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles with Antimicrobial Activity Against Clostridium perfringens
Authors: Cadinoiu Anca Niculina , Rata Delia Mihaela , Daraba Oana Maria , Atanase Leonard Ionut , Horhogea Cristina Elena , Chailan Jean-François , Popa Marcel , Carauleanu Alexandru
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Even with improvements in surgical techniques and the application of appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis, wound infections are still major public health problems in low- and middle-income countries. This study proposes the design of new particulate polymeric matrices based on chitosan (CS) for the controlled release of Metronidazole (MTZ), in order for it to be used for the treatment of Clostridium perfringens infections. Methods: The nanoparticles were prepared via inverse emulsion using tannic acid (TA) and sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) as cross-linking agents. The ratio of CS to TPP, the concentration of CS solution, and the ratio of CS to TA were varied to optimize the synthesis procedure. Nanoparticles have been characterized based on several points of view in order to correctly correlate their properties with synthesis parameters. Results: The FTIR spectra of the analyzed nanoparticles confirmed both the formation of hydrogen bonds between CS and TA and the ionic cross-linking of CS with TPP. The average diameters of the nanoparticles ranged from 70 to 170 nm, whereas the zeta potential values were around 8 mV. Their swelling degree in a weak basic environment, as well as the drug loading/release capacity was influenced, as expected, by the synthesis parameters. The obtained nanoparticles were tested in vitro to evaluate their behavior in the blood environment, the cytotoxic effect, and the antimicrobial activity of nanoparticles loaded with MTZ against Clostridium perfringens cultures. Conclusions: The in vitro obtained results demonstrate that these non-hemolytic and non-cytotoxic particles can be efficient drug delivery systems for the treatment of Clostridium perfringens in wound infections.
Multi-Beam Focusing and Deflecting Characteristics of Liquid Crystal Optical Phased Array
Authors: Xu Xue , Xu Lin , Liang Xitong , Dai Jun
Published: February 2025

As a programmable optical device, a liquid crystal optical phased array (LCOPA) has many unique applications. Multi-beam fan-out is one of the novel application cases. However, currently commercially available liquid crystal optical phased array devices typically use reflective structures and are operated on desktop software. This can be inconvenient for the construction of the optical path and the manipulation of the device. On the other hand, multi-beam fan-out capability alone may not be sufficient in some application scenarios. The additional function of focusing might bring some new advantages. Thus, we developed a transmissive liquid crystal optical phased array device based on a fully embedded human–computer interaction control method. It does not require the installation of computer desktop software and only needs a touch screen for easy human–computer interaction. This not only brings convenience to control, but also reduces the cost of devices. Meanwhile, based on the Gerchberg–Saxton algorithm (GS algorithm) and the method of lens phase superposition, we achieved a composite function of multiple-beam fan-out with focusing function by simulation and experiment. This composite function may have unique application value for some special application scenarios.
Investigation of the Partial Permittivity of Rigid Polyurethane Foams by a Circular One-Side-Access Capacitive Sensor
Authors: Beverte Ilze
Published: February 2025

The determination of the surface charge density distribution and the transcapacitance of capacitive one-side-access circular sensors with three electrodes on the active surface remains problematic both theoretically and experimentally. To provide an input, a novel experimental study was carried out on the partial permittivity of rigid PU foams by means of a capacitive circular OSA sensor with three electrodes on the active surface. An original and effective method was elaborated in order to determine the model functions of the obtained experimental data of the partial permittivity. A numerical estimation for the rate of change in the partial permittivity was made and the highest rate of change was determined. It was identified that the highest rate of change takes place at the inter-electrode zone and depends on the density and the true permittivity in a nonlinear mode, approximated with second-order polynomials. The overall character of the rate of change in the partial permittivity in the dependence of the radius of the covered area was found to be comparable to that of the surface charge density distribution curve, estimated theoretically for a circular two-electrode OSA sensor. The experimental results on the partial permittivity can be useful in the performance evaluation and design of the optimal proportions of capacitive circular OSA sensors, as well as in the verification of the corresponding mathematical models.
Virulence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) Isolates from Poultry in Brazil
Authors: Lúcio Caio Júnior , Hansen Paulo Henrique Caminha , Griebeler Josiane , Kipper Diéssy , Lunge Vagner Ricardo
Published: February 2025

Colibacillosis is a chicken disease caused by avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC). Pathogenicity in birds is determined by the occurrence of bacterial genes encoding virulence factors in APEC strains. Furthermore, APEC and other bacterial infections in commercial poultry farms have been treated with intensive use of antimicrobials for decades. Currently, many APEC strains are no longer susceptible to frequently used antibiotics due to increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) associated with the acquisition and mutation of other specific bacterial genes. The present study aimed to isolate and detect APEC isolates in broiler farms from different poultry-producing regions of Brazil and to determine their AMR profile. A total of 126 E. coli isolates were obtained from necropsied chickens with colibacillosis. All of these E. coli isolates were analyzed with one species-specific qPCR (targeting uspA gene) and five virulence factors genes qPCRs (targeting iroN, hlyF, iutA, iss, and ompT). AMR was determined by disk diffusion method using ten drugs frequently used to treat colibacillosis in Brazilian poultry farms. The results demonstrated that 109 (86.5%) isolates were classified as APEC. AMR was commonly observed in APEC and AFEC isolates, highlighting resistance for amoxicillin (85; 67.4%) and ceftiofur (72; 57.1%). A total of 41 (32.5%) E. coli isolates presented a multidrug resistance (MDR) profile. These results can contribute to implementing more effective colibacillosis prevention and control programs on Brazilian poultry farms.
Computational Identification and Characterization of Glycosyltransferase 47 (GT47) Gene Family in Sorghum bicolor and Their Expression Profile in Internode Tissues Based on RNA-Seq Data
Authors: Rehana Rehana , Anwar Muhammad , Arshad Sarmad Frogh , Saleem Muhammad Asif
Published: February 2025

Sorghum is an essential crop for biofuel. Many glycosyltransferase (GT) families, including GT47, are involved in the production of both types of polysaccharides. However, a comprehensive study related to the GT47 gene family is needed. The glycosyltransferase (GT) 47 family helps in the synthesis of xylose, pectin, and xyloglucan and plays an essential role in the formation of the proper shape of the plant cell wall. In this study, we performed identification, phylogenetic tree, physiochemical properties, subcellular localization, protein–protein interaction network, detection of motif analysis, gene structure, secondary structure, functional domain, gene duplication, Cis-acting elements, sequence logos, and gene expression profiles based on RNA-sequence analyses in the GT47 gene family. As a result, we identified thirty-one members of the GT47 gene family. The phylogenetic analysis grouped them into three distinct clusters. According to their physiochemical properties, all GT47 proteins were hydrophilic, and their molecular weights ranged from 22.7 to 88.6 kDa. Three essential motifs were identified via motif and conserved domain analysis, emphasizing structural conservation. Subcellular localization was proposed for the various functional roles across cellular compartments. While gene structure analysis showed significant variation in introns–exons, promoter study verified susceptibility to phytohormones like ABA. RNA sequencing revealed that several GT47 genes were highly expressed in internodes, and this was linked to biomass accumulation, cell wall manufacturing, and stem elongation. Analysis of networks of protein–protein interactions and Cis-elements confirmed involvement in stress adaptation and growth regulation. These results contribute to a better understanding of the functional and evolutionary significance of the GT47 gene family in sorghum.
Low-Carbon Economic Scheduling of Hydrogen-Integrated Energy Systems with Enhanced Bilateral Supply–Demand Response Considering Vehicle to Grid Under Power-to-Gas–Carbon Capture System Coupling
Authors: Dang Yulong , Wang Weiqing
Published: February 2025

Hydrogen-Integrated energy systems (HIESs) are pivotal in driving the transition to a low-carbon energy structure in China. This paper proposes a low-carbon economic scheduling strategy to improve the operational efficiency and reduce the carbon emissions of HIESs. The approach begins with the implementation of a stepwise carbon trading framework to limit the carbon output of the system. This is followed by the development of a joint operational model that combines hydrogen energy use and carbon capture. To improve the energy supply flexibility of HIESs, modifications to the conventional combined heat and power (CHP) unit are made by incorporating a waste heat boiler and an organic Rankine cycle. This results in a flexible CHP response model capable of adjusting both electricity and heat outputs. Furthermore, a comprehensive demand response model is designed to optimize the flexible capacities of electric and thermal loads, thereby enhancing demand-side responsiveness. The integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into the system is analyzed with respect to their energy consumption patterns and dispatch capabilities, which improves their potential for flexible scheduling and enables an optimized synergy between the demand-side flexibility and system operations. Finally, a low-carbon economic scheduling model for the HIES is developed with the objective of minimizing system costs. The results show that the proposed scheduling method effectively enhances the economy, low-carbon performance, and flexibility of HIES operation while promoting clean energy consumption, deep decarbonization of the system, and the synergistic complementarity of flexible supply–demand resources. In the broader context of expanding clean energy and growing EV adoption, this study demonstrates the potential of energy-saving, emission-reduction systems and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) strategies to contribute to the sustainable and green development of the energy sector.
Process Parameters and Heat-Treatment Optimization for Improving Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of AA6082-T651 Deposit on EN14B Plate Using Friction Surfacing Technique
Authors: Jangid Hemlata , Singh Nirmal K. , Kar Amlan
Published: February 2025

Friction surfacing (FS) is increasingly recognized as an advanced technique for coating similar and dissimilar materials, enabling superior joint quality through plastic deformation and grain refinement. This study investigates the deposition of AA6082-T651 alloy on a medium-carbon steel EN14B substrate using FS, with process parameters optimized, and the effect of axial load, rotational speed, and traverse speed on coating integrity. The optimal sample was subjected to heat treatment (HT) at 550 °C for 24, 36, and 48 h to further enhance mechanical properties. Comprehensive microstructural and mechanical analyses were performed on both heat-treated and non-heat-treated samples using optical microscopy (OM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), microhardness testing, and micro-tensile techniques. The optimized sample was processed with a 6 kN axial load, a rotational speed of 2700 rpm, and a traverse speed of 400 mm/min, and demonstrated superior bond quality and enhanced mechanical properties. The highest interfacial hardness values, 138 HV0.1 were achieved for the sample annealed for 48 h, under an axial load of 6 kN. Annealing for 48 h significantly improved atomic bonding at the aluminum–steel interface, confirmed by the formation of Fe3Al intermetallic compounds detected via FESEM-EDS and XRD. These compounds were the primary reason for the enhancement in the mechanical properties of the FS deposit. Furthermore, the interrelationship between process and thermal parameters revealed that a peak temperature of 422 °C, heat input of 1.1 kJ/mm, and an axial load of 6 kN are critical for achieving optimal mechanical interlocking and superior coating quality. The findings highlight that optimized FS parameters and post-heat treatment are critical in achieving high-quality, durable coatings, with improved interfacial bonding and hardness, making the process suitable for structural applications.
New Techniques of Meat Quality Assessment for Detecting Meat Texture
Authors: Liu Chang , Li Yanlei , Sun Wenming , Ma Feiyu , Wang Xiangwu , Yang Zihao
Published: February 2025

Meat, as an essential food source in people’s lives, provides a wealth of nutrients. The physical properties of meat are directly related to its sensory caracteristics, such as elasticity, viscosity, and toughness. Food rheology, as a discipline that studies the deformation and flow behavior of food under force, can effectively characterize these physical properties of meat. The evaluation methods of rheological properties provide a more comprehensive and accurate means of detecting meat quality. This not only helps enhance the quality control level in the meat industry but also holds significant importance for safeguarding consumer rights. This paper reviews the assessment of rheological properties such as sensory evaluation, texture analyzers, and rheometers. The combined application of multiple technologies (such as the integration of hyperspectral imaging (HSI) with computer vision and the fusion of airflow and laser detection) and emerging technologies (such as nanotechnology and biosensor technology) shows potential in predicting the rheological properties of meat. It analyzes the current application status, advantages, and challenges faced by the assessment of rheological properties and provides an outlook on future development trends, offering theoretical references for the objective evaluation of meat quality.
Understanding Stigma in Mental Illness: A Novel Literature-Based Model of Development
Authors: Rodrigues Jorge Magalhães , Cruz Ana Sofia , Queirós Cristina
Published: February 2025

The concept of stigma has evolved, initially denoting a mark of shame and now encompassing a broader range of negative societal perceptions. Cognitive-social models describe stigma as containing stereotypes, discrimination, and prejudice, with each dimension significantly impacting individuals’ health, social interactions, and willingness to seek help. This study has the objective of exploring the main theories about stigma to propose a novel model that integrates these dimensions, illustrating their interactions and cumulative impact on individuals and their families. The model aims for a comprehensive understanding of stigma development in mental illness and provides valuable insights for developing targeted anti-stigma interventions, ultimately improving the lives of individuals with mental illness and their families.
On-Line Monitoring of Vitamin C in Fruit Juice in Processing Plants by Electrochemical Sensor Based on PEDOT-Modified Electrodes: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Giliberti Chiara , Malavasi Matteo , Fortunati Simone , Cattani Luca , Giannetto Marco , Rainieri Sara , Careri Maria
Published: February 2025

Vitamin C, an antioxidant in most fruits and vegetables, is highly sensitive to heat, pH, metals, light, and oxidation, making it a key marker for nutrient degradation in thermal processing. Research aimed at improving processing methods to maximize vitamin C retention is usually limited to expensive laboratory equipment, which does not reflect real-world conditions in the food industry. On the other hand, traditional methods are not suitable for on-line monitoring. This paper proposes bridging the gap in liquid food processing with a voltammetric sensor based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-modified screen-printed carbon electrodes. The sensor showed excellent repeatability, with intra-sensor RSD below 5% and inter-sensor RSD below 10% at 250 mg/L of ascorbic acid. Detection and quantification limits were 0.7 and 2.1 mg/L, respectively. Trueness assessment in commercial orange juice with a declared vitamin C content yielded a recovery rate of 94 ± 1%. Selectivity tests with citric acid at concentrations equal to and 20 times higher than that of ascorbic acid showed no significant interference. Shelf-life studies confirmed the stability of the sensor for at least two months. This nanocomposite-based approach balances performance and cost with simple preparation, affordable materials, and a stable coating that allows long-term storage in uncontrolled environments.
Secrecy Outage Performance Analysis of Wirelessly Powered IoT System with Randomly Moving Receiving Nodes
Authors: Blagojević Vesna , Kozić Nadica , Cvetković Aleksandra , Ivaniš Predrag
Published: February 2025

Due to the need for the implementation of various IoT services, novel generation networks are often characterized by a constant requirement for their expansion and a rising number of nodes. The IoT network nodes are usually low power, so security becomes a challenging issue as conventional cryptographic techniques are hard to implement due to power and computational limitations. Besides, wireless power transfer is an appealing approach for powering IoT systems in scenarios where many nodes are placed in hardly accessible areas. Finally, due to a variety of applications, network nodes are often mobile. Motivated by these facts, in this paper, we investigate physical layer security in IoT systems powered by means of a power beacon, where a legitimate user or eavesdropper can be mobile. The closed-form approximate secrecy outage probability expressions are derived for the Nakagami-m fading environment and three scenarios of receiving node mobility, described by using a random waypoint model with mobility patterns in one, two or three dimensions. The accuracy of the obtained analytical expressions is corroborated by an independently developed simulation model.
Cooking Across Cultures: Everyday Food Provisioning in Multicultural Almere
Authors: Veen Esther J. , Smaal Sara A. L. , Sefu Yassir , Korn Melissa
Published: February 2025

Food from home can increase feelings of belonging and act as a source of comfort for people who move to another country and their children. Nevertheless, people who move elsewhere often start taking over dietary elements of the host culture, a dynamic process referred to as food acculturation. This paper argues that this process is not only related to identity negotiations and emotional connections, but that food choices are also shaped by everyday practical realities. Using a social practice theory-inspired approach, focusing on the elements of material, competence, and meaning, this study investigates the food provisioning practices of eighteen people with a migration background through semi-structured interviews. The study’s findings show that procuring typical ingredients from one’s home country is relatively easy in the study area of Almere, the Netherlands. Cooking skills, however, are more difficult to maintain and transfer to the next generation. Finally, the meaning of eating foods from home lies in connecting these foods to celebrations and get-togethers. In regular day-to-day meals, respondents often opt for more convenient dishes, either from their root cuisine or from Dutch or other food cultures. The paper concludes that respondents’ eating patterns balance cultural traditions with practical constraints of modern life, as people navigate their food routines while making practical choices that align with their daily routines and social environments. Municipalities, social services, and community initiatives could direct more attention to celebrating the culinary heritage that connects people from diverse migration backgrounds by organizing exchanges and get-togethers and fostering culturally appropriate food environments.