bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neonatal α-Ketoglutaric Acid Gavage May Potentially Alleviate Acute Heat Stress by Modulating Hepatic Heat Shock Protein 90 and Improving Blood Antioxidant Status of Broilers
Authors: Gupta Vaishali , Goel Akshat , Ncho Chris Major , Jeong Chae-Mi , Choi Yang-Ho
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the effect of neonatal α-ketoglutaric acid (AKG) gavage feeding on broilers. The first experiment was conducted to determine the effect of AKG on day-old broilers. A total of seventy-two-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were divided into four treatment groups: (i) Two groups of chicks with gavage feeding of 0.6 mL of distilled water (DDW) for four consecutive days (CON); (ii) chicks fed with 0.6 mL of 0.1% AKG dissolved in DDW on the day of hatch (AL) followed by 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.4% for three consecutive days; and (iii) chicks fed with 0.6 mL of 0.2% AKG dissolved in DDW on the day of hatch (AH) followed by 0.4%, 0.6%, and 0.8% for three consecutive days. Twenty-four hours after the first gavage feeding, six birds per treatment were slaughtered to study the organ development. Chicks fed with AKG showed higher absolute (p = 0.015) and relative (p = 0.037) weights of the gizzard. The AH group had higher absolute (p = 0.012) and relative (p = 0.035) heart weights. The second experiment was carried out to determine the effect of AKG on 15-day-old broilers under acute heat stress (AHS) for 3.5 h at 33 ± 1 °C. Forty-eight birds (12 per treatment) were raised until 15 days of age, divided into four treatments with equal numbers (n = 12), and given one of the following four treatments: (i) CON group reared at standard temperature (25 ± 1 °C) (CON-NT); (ii) CON group subjected to AHS (33 ± 1 °C) for 3.5 h (CON-HT); (iii) AL group subjected to AHS (33 ± 1 °C) for 3.5 h (AL-HT); and (iv) AH group subjected to AHS (33 ± 1 °C) for 3.5 h (AH-HT). There was a significant reduction in the change in BW (ΔBW, p = 0.005), an increase in the final rectal temperature (RTf) (p = 0.001), and a decreased final body weight (BWf) for all the treatments under AHS. Further, AHS led to an increased expression of hepatic heat shock protein (HSP)70 (p = 0.009), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate hydrogen oxidase (NOX)1 (p = 0.006), and NOX4 (p = 0.001), while nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (NRF2), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) remained significantly unaffected. Hepatic expression of HSP90 decreased in the AL-HT treatment as compared to CON-HT (p = 0.008). Plasma antioxidant status measured by malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and antioxidant balance (AB) improved linearly (p = 0.001) as the concentration of AKG increased. Neonatal gavage feeding of AKG could potentially alleviate heat stress in broilers by enhancing plasma antioxidant levels and modulating HSP90 expression in the liver.
Evolving Dairy Cattle Systems in Chile: Structural Shifts and Adaptation Strategies
Authors: Toro-Mujica Paula , Vera-Infanzón Raúl
Published: August 2024

This study examines the structural and geographical changes in Chile’s dairy cattle systems from 1997 to 2021, using data from agricultural censuses. It focuses on variables like animal stocks, herd sizes, pasture utilization, and stocking rates, analyzed through descriptive statistics, multivariable analysis, and geographical mapping. The findings show a significant decrease in dairy farms (−69%) and dairy cattle stocks (−25.4%), with regional disparities: southern farms increased in importance while central farms declined. There is a trend towards intensification, with higher stocking rates and larger herd sizes. Grassland utilization shifted, with a decrease in natural pastures and an increase in improved and sown pastures. The study identifies four typological groups based on stocking rates, dimensions, and pasture use, reflecting distinct evolutionary paths influenced by climate change, land use, economic dynamics, and technology. Geographical analyses highlight regional variations. This research provides insights into the dynamics of Chile’s dairy farming sector and its sustainability challenges and opportunities amidst changing environmental and socioeconomic conditions.
The Antibacterial Potential of Brazilian Red Propolis against the Formation and Eradication of Biofilm of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Santiago Mariana B. , Tanimoto Matheus H. , Ambrosio Maria Anita L. V. , Veneziani Rodrigo Cassio S. , Bastos Jairo K. , Sabino-Silva Robinson , Martins Carlos Henrique G.
Published: August 2024

Helicobacter pylori is associated with gastrointestinal diseases, and its treatment is challenging due to antibiotic-resistant strains, necessitating alternative therapies. Brazilian red propolis (BRP), known for its diverse bioactive compounds with pharmaceutical properties, was investigated for its anti-H. pylori activity, focusing on biofilm formation inhibition and eradication. BRP was tested against H. pylori (ATCC 43526) using several assays: time–kill, nucleotide leakage, biofilm formation inhibition (determining the minimum inhibitory concentration of biofilm of 50%—MICB50, and cell viability), and biofilm eradication (determining the minimum eradication concentration of biofilm of 99.9%—MBEC). Standardization of H. pylori biofilm formation was also conducted. In the time–kill assay, BRP at 50 µg/mL eliminated all H. pylori cells after 24 h. The nucleotide leakage assay showed no significant differences between control groups and BRP-treated groups at 25 µg/mL and 50 µg/mL. H. pylori formed biofilms in vitro at 109 CFU/mL after 72 h. The MICB50 of BRP was 15.6 µg/mL, and at 500, 1000, and 2000 µg/mL, BRP eradicated all bacterial cells. The MBEC was 2000 µg/mL. These findings suggest that BRP has promising anti-H. pylori activity, effectively inhibiting and eradicating biofilms. Further studies are necessary to elucidate BRP’s mechanisms of action against H. pylori.
Impact of Manual Addition of Vancomycin to Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Cements
Authors: Kittinger Clemens , Eder-Halbedl Michael , Kühn Klaus Dieter
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: The addition of antibiotics to bone cements is a common practice in the treatment of periprosthetic joint infections. In revision cases, the amount and type of antibiotic is often insufficient and additional antibiotics must be added. The addition, however, changes the product itself, and the surgeon becomes the “manufacturer” of the bone cement. PMMAe wished to clarify whether the admixture of antibiotics changes the mechanical stability of the bone cements used and if the added antibiotics were still functional and released in sufficient quantities. (2) Methods: We compared two industrially manufactured vancomycin-containing PMMA cements; the low-viscous VancogenX® (TECRES, Sommacampagna, Italy) and the high-viscous Copal® G+V (Heraeus Medical GmbH, Wehrheim, Germany), with two PMMA cements loaded with aminoglycosides, to which 2.0 g of vancomycin (Hexal CT1631) were manually added—the high-viscous Smartset® GHV and the medium-viscous Antibiotic Simplex with Tobramycin (antibiotic Simplex® T). Test specimens of the bone cements were used to determine mechanical stability (bending strength and bending module), and the release of the antibiotics was determined by HLPC and modified Kirby–Bauer assays. (3) Results: All tested bone cements showed an initial high release within the first hours. Repeated testing after 24 h showed a reduced efficacy of VancogenX® and Smartset® GHV in Kirby–Bauer assays. Long-time release over days showed a release of functional antimicrobial active ingredients over this period of time in anti-microbial assays, but no activity of VancogenX® from day 21 onward. No significant differences in the ISO bending modules could be detected, but in contrast to the bending module, the ISO bending strength was substantially reduced by 10–15 mPal in comparison to both cements of the reference group. The Simplex®T met just the ISO 5833; the Smartset® GHV did not after adding vancomycin. (4) Conclusions: In conclusion, the manual addition of 2 g of vancomycin to 40 g of PMMA powder is recommended for the treatment of methicillin-resistant staphylococci. Vancomycin is released over a period of 42 days with concentrations above the MIC for typical staphylococci. The mechanical properties of the PMMA just met, or did not fulfill, ISO mechanical specification. Copal® G+V showed a better elution than VancogenX® over time.
Investigating the Antimicrobial Potential of 560 Compounds from the Pandemic Response Box and COVID Box against Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Cerqueira Melo Rita de Cássia , Martins Aline Andrade , Melo Andressa Leite Ferraz , Vicente Jean Carlos Pael , Sturaro Mariana Carvalho , Arantes Julia Pimentel , Rossato Luana , de Souza Gleyce Hellen de Almeida , Simionatto Simone
Published: August 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a significant threat to public health, particularly in infections caused by critically important Gram-negative bacteria. The development of novel antibiotics has its limitations, and therefore it is crucial to explore alternative strategies to effectively combat infections with resistant pathogens. In this context, the present study investigated the antibacterial potency of 560 compounds against the multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Serratia marcescens. The evaluated compounds were selected from the Pandemic Response Box (PRB) and COVID Box (CB) and subjected to assays to determine the inhibitory concentration (IC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and biofilm formation. Further, the effects of these compounds on membrane integrity were assessed through protein quantification. Several of the evaluated compounds, including fusidic acid, MMV1580853, and MMV1634399, exhibited a significant reduction in biofilm formation and growth in K. pneumoniae. Trimethoprim exhibited potential against S. marcescens. The IC values of the compounds indicated significant microbial growth inhibition at various concentrations. These findings underscore the potency of the existing antibiotics and novel compounds in combating the MDR strains of bacteria. The importance of reconsidering the known antibiotics and utilizing drug repositioning strategies to address the increasing risk of AMR is highlighted.
Maximizing Wine Antioxidants: Yeast’s Contribution to Melatonin Formation
Authors: Scutarașu Elena Cristina , Niță Răzvan George , Vlase Laurian , Zamfir Cătălin Ioan , Cioroiu Bogdan Ionel , Colibaba Lucia Cintia , Muntean Dana , Luchian Camelia Elena , Vlase Ana Maria , Cotea Valeriu
Published: August 2024

Melatonin is commonly found in various fruits, juices, and some fermented beverages. Its concentration in wine is influenced by soil properties, climatic factors, and yeast activity. Even if it is found in fermented beverages in relatively low proportions, melatonin still holds significant nutritional value, giving anti-aging properties, anti-inflammatory actions, and antidepressant effects. In this context, this article focuses on evaluating the impact of different Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces yeast species on the formation of melatonin and its contribution to wines’ total antioxidant capacity. Considering that the antioxidant activity of wine is usually related to the content of phenolic compounds, ten such compounds were analyzed. The evaluation of bioactive compounds was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with mass spectrometry. The total antioxidant capacity of wine samples was evaluated by the ABTS+ method. The administration of bâtonnage products increased the efficiency of non-Saccharomyces yeasts. The mixtures of Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces yeasts generated higher values for melatonin. The results confirm a significant impact from the grape variety and the specific yeast strains on the melatonin concentration. Also, a strong dependence between antioxidant activity and melatonin levels was observed. Given the limited existing studies on the presence of melatonin in wines, new perspectives are needed for future exploration and understanding.
Oxidative Stress and Mitochondria Are Involved in Anaphylaxis and Mast Cell Degranulation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Piotin Anays , Oulehri Walid , Charles Anne-Laure , Tacquard Charles , Collange Olivier , Mertes Paul-Michel , Geny Bernard
Published: August 2024

Anaphylaxis, an allergic reaction caused by the massive release of active mediators, can lead to anaphylactic shock (AS), the most severe and potentially life-threatening form of anaphylactic reaction. Nevertheless, understanding of its pathophysiology to support new therapies still needs to be improved. We performed a systematic review, assessing the role and the complex cellular interplay of mitochondria and oxidative stress during anaphylaxis, mast cell metabolism and degranulation. After presenting the main characteristics of anaphylaxis, the oxidant/antioxidant balance and mitochondrial functions, we focused this review on the involvement of mitochondria and oxidative stress in anaphylaxis. Then, we discussed the role of oxidative stress and mitochondria following mast cell stimulation by allergens, leading to degranulation, in order to further elucidate mechanistic pathways. Finally, we considered potential therapeutic interventions implementing these findings for the treatment of anaphylaxis. Experimental studies evaluated mainly cardiomyocyte metabolism during AS. Cardiac dysfunction was associated with left ventricle mitochondrial impairment and lipid peroxidation. Studies evaluating in vitro mast cell degranulation, following Immunoglobulin E (IgE) or non-IgE stimulation, revealed that mitochondrial respiratory complex integrity and membrane potential are crucial for mast cell degranulation. Antigen stimulation raises reactive oxygen species (ROS) production from nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidases and mitochondria, leading to mast cell degranulation. Moreover, mast cell activation involved mitochondrial morphological changes and mitochondrial translocation to the cell surface near exocytosis sites. Interestingly, antioxidant administration reduced degranulation by lowering ROS levels. Altogether, these results highlight the crucial role of oxidative stress and mitochondria during anaphylaxis and mast cell degranulation. New therapeutics against anaphylaxis should probably target oxidative stress and mitochondria, in order to decrease anaphylaxis-induced systemic and major organ deleterious effects.
Flavonoids: Antioxidant Powerhouses and Their Role in Nanomedicine
Authors: Zahra Mehak , Abrahamse Heidi , George Blassan P.
Published: August 2024

This study emphasizes the critical role of antioxidants in protecting human health by counteracting the detrimental effects of oxidative stress induced by free radicals. Antioxidants—found in various forms such as vitamins, minerals, and the phytochemicals abundant in fruits and vegetables—neutralize free radicals by stabilizing them through electron donation. Specifically, flavonoid compounds are highlighted as robust defenders, addressing oxidative stress and inflammation to avert chronic illnesses like cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. This research explores the bioactive potential of flavonoids, shedding light on their role not only in safeguarding health, but also in managing conditions such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. This review highlights the novel integration of South African-origin flavonoids with nanotechnology, presenting a cutting-edge strategy to improve drug delivery and therapeutic outcomes. This interdisciplinary approach, blending traditional wisdom with contemporary techniques, propels the exploration of flavonoid-mediated nanoparticles toward groundbreaking pharmaceutical applications, promising revolutionary advancements in healthcare. This collaborative synergy between traditional knowledge and modern science not only contributes to human health, but also underscores a significant step toward sustainable and impactful biomedical innovations, aligning with principles of environmental conservation.
Papain Suppresses Atopic Skin Inflammation through Anti-Inflammatory Activities Using In Vitro and In Vivo Models
Authors: Kim Hye-Min , Kang Yun-Mi , Lee Minho , An Hyo-Jin
Published: August 2024

Papain (PN) is a proteolytic enzyme derived from Carica Papaya L. While the pharmacological effects of PN have not been extensively studied compared to its enzymatic activity, PN also holds potential benefits beyond protein digestion. This study aimed to investigate the potential effects of PN against skin inflammation in house dust mite Dermatophagoides farinae body (Dfb)-exposed NC/Nga atopic dermatitis (AD) mice and human HaCaT keratinocytes and their underlying mechanisms. The effects of PN on the skin were assessed via histological examination, measurements of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Our findings indicated that the oral intake of PN decreased the severity scores of lesions resembling AD, TEWL, and the levels of inflammatory cytokines and serum immunoglobulin E in Dfb-induced AD mice, along with a reduction in epidermal thickness and mast cell infiltration. Additionally, PN inhibited the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathways in Dfb-induced AD mice and HaCaT keratinocytes. Moreover, PN improved survival and reduced ROS production in H2O2-damaged HaCaT keratinocytes and enhanced the expression of antioxidant enzymes in Dfb-induced AD mice. Concludingly, the oral administration of PN suppressed inflammatory mediators and downregulated the MAPKs/STAT pathway, suggesting its potential role in AD pathogenesis.
Investigation into the Reduction of Palm Oil in Foods by Blended Vegetable Oils through Response Surface Methodology and Oxidative Stability Tests
Authors: Athanasiadis Vassilis , Kalompatsios Dimitrios , Mantiniotou Martha , Lalas Stavros I.
Published: August 2024

Recently, there has been a significant transition in the dietary preferences of consumers toward foods containing health-promoting compounds. In addition, as people’s environmental awareness increases, they are increasingly looking for sustainable solutions. Palm oil, an oil used extensively by the food industry, does not fit these criteria. This study investigated the development of a complex oil blend consisting of commonly used vegetable oils such as corn, rapeseed, sunflower, and palm oil. The aim was to find the optimal blended oil and compare this combination with palm oil in terms of its oxidative stability, antioxidant capacity, and the composition of bioactive compounds (i.e., fatty acids, tocopherols, and carotenoids). Palm oil was found to have greater oxidative stability as a result of its increased concentration of saturated fatty acids. The optimal blended oil, which consisted of corn and rapeseed oil at a ratio of 4:3 w/w, inhibited the superior antioxidant activity, showing a ~33% increase in DPPH• inhibition activity. ATR-FTIR spectra further verified the existence of a significant quantity of saturated fatty acids in palm oil and unsaturated fatty acids in the blended oil. Finally, several correlation analyses revealed interesting connections between oil samples and investigated parameters. This work has the potential to establish a basis for the mass production of oil blends that possess high concentrations of antioxidant compounds and reduce the use of palm oil.
Exploring the Transformative Potential of Functionalized Mesoporous Silica in Enhancing Antioxidant Activity: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Budiman Arif , Rusdin Agus , Wardhana Yoga Windhu , Puluhulawa Lisa Efriani , Cindana Mo’o Faradila Ratu , Thomas Nurain , Gazzali Amirah Mohd , Aulifa Diah Lia
Published: August 2024

Antioxidants are essential for reducing oxidative stress, protecting cells from damage, and supporting overall well-being. Functionalized mesoporous silica materials have garnered interest due to their flexible uses in diverse domains, such as drug delivery systems. This review aims to thoroughly examine and evaluate the progress made in utilizing functionalized mesoporous silica materials as a possible approach to enhancing antioxidant activity. The authors performed a thorough search of reliable databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Clarivate Web of Science, using precise keywords linked to functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles and antioxidants. The identified journals serve as the major framework for the main discussion in this study. Functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles have been reported to greatly enhance antioxidant activity by allowing for an increased loading capacity, controlled release behavior, the targeting of specific drugs, improved biocompatibility and safety, and enhanced penetration. The results emphasize the significant capacity of functionalized mesoporous silica (FSM) to bring about profound changes in a wide range of applications. FSM materials can be designed as versatile nanocarriers, integrating intrinsic antioxidant capabilities and augmenting the efficacy of current drugs, offering substantial progress in antioxidant therapies and drug delivery systems, as well as enhanced substance properties in the pharmaceutical field. Functionalized mesoporous silica materials are a highly effective method for enhancing antioxidant activity. They provide new opportunities for the advancement of cutting-edge treatments and materials in the field of antioxidant research. The significant potential of FSM materials to change drug delivery methods and improve substance properties highlights their crucial role in future breakthroughs in the pharmaceutical field and antioxidant applications.
Research Progress in Methods for the Analysis of the Internal Stability of Landslide Dam Soils
Authors: Zhang Qianjin , Chen Qun , Wan Li , Li Xing , Zhou Yaming , Cheng Qizhuo
Published: August 2024

In this paper, the research progress made in the methods used for assessing the internal stability of landslide dam soils was reviewed. Influence factors such as the gradation of soil and the stress state in the soil in different analysis methods were discussed, as these can provide a reference for the development of more accurate methods to analyze the internal stability of landslide dam soils. It focuses on the evaluation of internal stability based on the characteristic particle size and fine particle content, hydraulic conditions such as the critical hydraulic gradient and critical seepage velocity, and the stress state such as lateral confinement, isotropic compression, and triaxial compression. The characteristic particle size and fine particle content are parameters commonly used to distinguish the types of seepage failure. The critical hydraulic gradient or seepage failure velocity are necessary for a further assessment of the occurrence of seepage failure. The stress state in the soil is a significant influence factor for the internal stability of natural deposited soils. Although various analysis methods are available, the applicability of each method is limited and an analysis method for complex stress states is lacking. Therefore, the further validation and development of existing methods are necessary for landslide dam soils.
A Novel Equivalent Combined Control Architecture for Electro-Optical Equipment: Performance and Robustness
Authors: Liu Yang , Zheng Yulong , Chen Mo , Chen Jian , Wang Weiguo
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we propose a novel equivalent composite control architecture for electro-optical equipment. The improved tracking performance and loss of robustness caused by this structure have a clear relationship with a2, the time coefficient of the compensation circuit. The compensation circuit can make the speed quality factor and the acceleration quality factor of the system infinite, and the jerk quality factor can be expanded to 1/a2 times the original acceleration quality factor, but it will cause a main zero point of the servo system to be far away from the virtual axis and the main poles to be close to the virtual axis. As the time coefficient of the compensation loop controller decreases, the tracking performance of the system increases, but the robustness decreases, the dynamic response deteriorates, the water bed effect becomes more obvious, and the system is more susceptible to noise and disturbances. Compared to the existing method, our method focuses on system performance and robustness. Experimental results show that our method can achieve target tracking with a peak accuracy of 64″ and 22″ (RMS), which is superior to the tracking performance without equivalent composite control.
Mouthwash Containing Plant-Derived Biosurfactant and Chitosan Hydrochloride: Assessment of Antimicrobial Activity, Antibiofilm Activity, and Genotoxicity
Authors: Souza Izabelle R. , Bezerra Káren G. O. , Oliveira Camila L. , Meira Hugo M. , Stamford Thayza C. M. , Converti Attilio , Sarubbo Leonie A. , Rufino Raquel D.
Published: August 2024

Plant-derived biosurfactants are widely used due to their emulsifying and surface-active properties and can be applied in various products. The aim of this present study was to develop a mouthwash using chitosan hydrochloride and saponins extracted from the plants Chenopodium quinoa and Glycine max. After extraction of the biosurfactants using the Soxhlet method, they were characterized with the aid of infrared spectroscopy and subjected to determination of critical micelle concentration, which was found to be 4.0 and 3.5 g/L for C. quinoa and G. max, respectively. The stability of the emulsions was investigated in the presence of different oils and at different values of temperature, pH, and salinity, which showed an emulsification index greater than 40% under all conditions analyzed. After obtaining the mouthwash formulation, tests of foaming capacity, pH, and genotoxicity were performed in cells of onion (Allium cepa) roots. No presence of micronuclei was found in the roots exposed to the formulation, which indicates that there was no aggression to the cells. The results of antimicrobial susceptibility tests revealed bacteriostatic/bactericidal activity as well as antibiofilm activity of formulations against the microorganisms tested. In conclusion, the biosurfactants present in extracts from C. quinoa and G. max were found to be stable, non-toxic molecules with antimicrobial activity, with potential to replace toxic emulsifying agents commonly used in commercial products.
Oxidation Status and Antioxidant Activity of Analogue Meat Products in Modified Atmosphere Packaging
Authors: Abdullah Fouad Ali Abdullah , Dordevic Dani , Kabourkova Eliska
Published: August 2024

The study aims to assess the impact of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the oxidation status of five types of analogue meat products, crucial for extending shelf life and maintaining quality, and seeks to optimize packaging strategies to mitigate oxidation and provide possible solutions for enhancing the overall quality of analogue meat products. Gas ratios in MAP, as well as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), free fatty acids (FFA), total polyphenol content, and antioxidant capacity were assessed through four different assays (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl: DPPH, Azino-Bis (3-Ethylbenzothiazoline-6-Sulfonic Acid): ABTS, Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power: FRAP, Cupric reducing antioxidant capacity: CUPRAC) for analogue meat products (steak, noodles, filet, burger, and mince) on the last day of their shelf life. O2 ratios in the MAP for all the products did not differ significantly (p > 0.05), but CO2 concentrations significantly differed (p > 0.05) in the MAP of the evaluated products. The minced product exhibited higher oxidative stability with the lowest TBARS (3.20 mg MDA·kg−1) and FFA (1.12% total fat as oleic acid), along with a high antioxidant capacity (DPPH: 32.26, ABTS: 4.49% inhibition, CUPRAC: 11.48 Trolox mmol/kg). The filet product was more susceptible to the oxidation process, as evidenced by the significantly (p > 0.05) higher TBARS value (9.71 mg MDA·kg−1), lower polyphenol content (1.01 mg gallic acid/g), and antioxidant capacity (FRAP: 4.75 mmol/g, CPRAC: 5.57 Trolox mmol/kg).
Study of the Effects of Wall Thickness and Size Variations on the Rupture Risk of Cerebral Aneurysms Using FSI Simulations
Authors: Díaz Daniel , Valencia Álvaro
Published: August 2024

Cerebral aneurysms come in a wide range of shapes and sizes; they can also evolve over time, presenting significant changes. Large aneurysms are generally thought to be more prone to rupture, but rupture has also been observed in small aneurysms, indicating the presence of additional risk factors. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of the aneurysm’s size and wall thickness on its rupture risk, by using fluid–structure interaction simulations. Six patient-specific geometries were studied: four related to the effect of size and two related to the effect of wall thickness. Additional cases in which the aneurysm was removed were included. It was found that thinner walls suffered from significantly greater stresses, whereas an increment in size led, in general, to lower levels of wall shear stress and greater equivalent stress. By removing the aneurysm, the reduction in the time-averaged wall shear stress was 75% at the rupture point. Although the size of an aneurysm has a great impact on its rupture risk, the wall thickness needs to be considered, since with maintenance of its size, an aneurysm can suffer from wall thinning, which can lead to structural failure.
Critical Review of LPBF Metal Print Defects Detection: Roles of Selective Sensing Technology
Authors: Guillen Donna , Wahlquist Scott , Ali Amir
Published: August 2024

The integrative potential of LPBF-printed parts for various innovative applications depends upon the robustness and infallibility of the part quality. Eliminating or sufficiently reducing factors contributing to the formation of defects is an integral step to achieving satisfiable part quality. Significant research efforts have been conducted to understand and quantify the triggers and origins of LPBF defects by investigating the material properties and process parameters for LPBF-printed geometries using various sensing technologies and techniques. Frequently, combinations of sensing techniques are applied to deepen the understanding of the investigated phenomena. The main objectives of this review are to cover the roles of selective sensing technologies by (1) providing a summary of LPBF metal print defects and their corresponding causes, (2) informing readers of the vast number and types of technologies and methodologies available to detect defects in LPBF-printed parts, and (3) equipping readers with publications geared towards defect detection using combinations of sensing technologies. Due to the large pool of developed sensing technology in the last few years for LPBF-printed parts that may be designed for targeting a specific defect in metal alloys, the article herein focuses on sensing technology that is common and applicable to most common defects and has been utilized in characterization for an extended period with proven efficiency and applicability to LPBF metal parts defect detection.
DeepSarc-US: A Deep Learning Framework for Assessing Sarcopenia Using Ultrasound Images
Authors: Behboodi Bahareh , Obrand Jeremy , Afilalo Jonathan , Rivaz Hassan
Published: August 2024

Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass, is a core component of frailty that is associated with functional decline and adverse health events in older adults. Unfortunately, the available tools to diagnose sarcopenia are often inaccessible or not user-friendly for clinicians. Point-of-care ultrasound (US) is a promising tool that has been used to image the quadriceps muscle and measure its thickness (QMT) as a diagnostic criterion for sarcopenia. This measurement can be challenging for clinicians, especially when performed at the bedside using handheld systems or phased-array probes not designed for this use case. In this paper, we sought to automate this measurement using deep learning methods to improve its accuracy, reliability, and speed in the hands of untrained clinicians. In the proposed framework, which aids in better training, particularly when limited data are available, convolutional and transformer-based deep learning models with generic or data-driven pre-trained weights were compared. We evaluated regression (QMT as a continuous output in cm) and classification (QMT as an ordinal output in 0.5 cm bins) approaches, and in the latter, activation maps were generated to interpret the anatomical landmarks driving the model predictions. Finally, we evaluated a segmentation approach to derive QMT. The results showed that both transformer-based models and convolutional neural networks benefit from the proposed framework in estimating QMT. Additionally, the activation maps highlighted the interface between the femur bone and the quadriceps muscle as a key anatomical landmark for accurate predictions. The proposed framework is a pivotal step to enable the application of US-based measurement of QMT in large-scale clinical studies seeking to validate its diagnostic performance for sarcopenia, alone or with ancillary criteria assessing muscle quality or strength. We believe that implementing the proposed framework will empower clinicians to conveniently diagnose sarcopenia in clinical settings and accordingly personalize the care of older patients, leading to improved patient outcomes and a more efficient allocation of healthcare resources.
Feasibility Assessment of Implementing Semi-Interlocking Masonry as Infill Panels in Framed Building Construction
Authors: Hossain Md Akhtar , Totoev Yuri Z. , Masia Mark J.
Published: August 2024

Semi-Interlocking Masonry (SIM) represents an innovative building system developed at the Centre for Infrastructure Performance and Reliability at the University of Newcastle, Australia. This system employs a unique approach to interlocking mortar-less engineered masonry panels constructed from SIM units. These units are designed to offer substantial energy dissipation capacity, primarily attributed to the friction occurring on the sliding bed joints between the units within the panel during seismic events. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the viability of incorporating semi-interlocking masonry as infill panels in the construction of multi-story buildings across diverse geographical locations with varying seismic conditions in Australia. To assess the feasibility of SIM panels in different conditions (according to Australian Standard AS1170) in Australia, a comprehensive analysis using Strand7 R3.1.4 is conducted on a three-story structure incorporating traditional masonry infill panels and SIM panels. Displacement and base shear capacities are compared in response to seismic events across various scenarios in different locations within Australia. The insights gained from this comparative analysis contribute valuable information regarding the viability of implementing SIM as a contemporary construction material.
Use of Machine Learning to Improve Additive Manufacturing Processes
Authors: Rojek Izabela , Kopowski Jakub , Lewandowski Jakub , Mikołajewski Dariusz
Published: August 2024

Rapidly developing artificial intelligence (AI) can help machines and devices to perceive, analyze, and even make inferences in a similar way to human reasoning. The aim of this article is to present applications of AI methods, including machine learning (ML), in the design and supervision of processes used in the field of additive manufacturing techniques. This approach will allow specific tasks to be solved as if they were performed by a human expert in the field. The application of AI in the development of additive manufacturing technologies makes it possible to be assisted by the knowledge of experienced operators in the design and supervision of processes acquired automatically. This reduces the risk of human error and simplifies and automates the production of products and parts. AI in 3D technology creates a wide range of possibilities for generating 3D objects and enables a machine equipped with a vision system, used in ML processes, to analyze data similar to human thought processes. Incremental printing using such a printer allows the production of objects of ever-increasing quality from several materials simultaneously. The process itself is also precise and fast. An accuracy of 97.56% means that the model is precise and makes very few errors. The 3D printing system with artificial intelligence allows the device to adapt to, for example, different material properties, as the printer examines the 3D-printed surface and automatically adjusts the printing. AI/ML-based solutions similar to ours, once learning sets are modified or extended, are easily adaptable to other technologies, materials, or multi-material 3D printing. They also allow the creation of dedicated, ML solutions that adapt to the specifics of a production line, including as self-learning solutions as production progresses.
Design and Multi-Objective Optimization of an Asymmetric-Rotor Permanent-Magnet-Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Motor for Improved Torque Performance
Authors: Xing Feng , Zhang Jiajia , Zhang Mingming , Qin Caiyan
Published: August 2024

Permanent-magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance motors (PMA-SynRMs) are widely used in modern industry as a kind of electromagnetic energy conversion device with high output torque, high power density, high efficiency, and excellent speed regulation. In this paper, an asymmetric-rotor PMA-SynRM combined with a Halbach array is proposed based on the conventional PMA-SynRM without modifying the amount of permanent magnet. With the finite element no-load analysis, it is proven that the permanent magnet arrangement of this method can achieve better flux focusing effect and magnetic-axis-shift (MAS) effect. A significant increase and shift of the air-gap magnetic density has also been observed. Meanwhile, the load simulation demonstrated that the proposed model possesses higher utilization of permanent magnet torque and reluctance torque compared to the conventional model. In addition, a multi-objective optimization has been performed for the rotor structure of the proposed model, and the optimized model improved the average torque by 25.32% and reduced the torque ripple by 76.92% compared to the conventional model. Finally, the constant power speed range (CPSR) performance and anti-demagnetization performance have been analyzed for the three models. The results showed that the proposed and optimized models performed better on constant power speed range, and all three models of permanent magnets had good anti-demagnetization performance. The maximum demagnetization rate of the optimized model is reduced by 13.84% compared to the proposed model at an operating condition of 200 °C and nine times the rated current.
An FPGA-Based Data Acquisition System with Embedded Processing for Real-Time Gas Sensing Applications
Authors: Enemali Godwin , Gibson Ryan M.
Published: August 2024

Real-time gas sensing based on wavelength modulation spectroscopy (WMS) has been widely adopted for several gas sensing applications. It is attractive for its accurate, non-invasive, and fast determination of critical gas parameters such as concentration, temperature, and pressure. To implement real-time gas sensing, data acquisition and processing must be implemented to accurately extract harmonics of interest from transmitted laser signals. In this work, we present an FPGA-based data acquisition architecture with embedded processing capable of achieving both real-time and accurate gas detection. By leveraging real-time processing on-chip, we minimised the data transfer bandwidth requirement, hence enabling better resolution of data transferred for high-level processing. The proposed architecture has a significantly lower bandwidth requirement compared to both the conventional offline processing architecture and the standard I-Q architecture. Specifically, it is capable of reducing data transfer overhead by 25% compared to the standard I-Q method, and it only requires a fraction of the bandwidth needed by the offline processing architecture. The feasibility of the proposed architecture is demonstrated on a commercial off-the-shelf SoC board, where measurement results show that the proposed architecture has better accuracy compared to the standard I-Q demodulation architecture for the same signal bandwidth. The proposed DAQ system has potential for more accurate and fast real-time gas sensing.
GCE: An Audio-Visual Dataset for Group Cohesion and Emotion Analysis
Authors: Lim Eunchae , Ho Ngoc-Huynh , Pant Sudarshan , Kang Young-Shin , Jeon Seong-Eun , Kim Seungwon , Kim Soo-Hyung , Yang Hyung-Jeong
Published: August 2024

We present the Group Cohesion and Emotion (GCE) dataset, which comprises 1029 segmented films sourced from YouTube. These videos encompass a range of interactions, including interviews, meetings, informal discussions, and other similar contexts. In the annotation process, graduate psychology students were tasked with assigning coherence levels, ranging from 1 to 7, and affective states as negative, neutral, or positive for each 30 s film. We introduce a foundational model that utilizes advanced visual and audio embedding techniques to investigate the concepts of group cohesion and group emotion prediction. The application of Multi-Head Attention (MHA) fusion is utilized to enhance the process of cross-representation learning. The scope of our investigation includes both unimodal and multimodal techniques, which provide insights into the prediction of group cohesion and the detection of group emotion. The results emphasize the effectiveness of the GCE dataset in examining the level of group unity and emotional conditions.
Green Synthesis of Magnetic Fe–Co Bimetallic Nanoparticles and Their Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Bhardwaj Amit , Singh Arun K.
Published: August 2024

The leaves of the Murraya koenigii aromatic plant contain various specific phytochemicals, including lutein, β-carotene, vitamin C, nicotinic acids, and other polyphenols, which act as reducing agents to produce metallic nanoparticles from their respective precursors. In this study, we report the green synthesis of iron–cobalt bimetallic nanoparticles (Fe–Co BMNPs) using natural resources of reducing and capping agents from aqueous extract of Murraya koenigii leaves. The synthesized Fe–Co BMNPs were characterized using SEM, EDS, BET surface area, TGA, XRD, TEM, and VSM techniques, revealing their crystalline structure with a surface area of 83.22 m2 g−1 and particle sizes <50 nm. Furthermore, the photocatalytic ability of the synthesized Fe–Co BMNPs was examined concerning methylene blue dye (MBD) aqueous solution. The synthesized Fe–Co BMNPs exhibited promising potential for dye removal from aqueous solution in acidic and basic medium (>97% of 10 mg L−1).
Influence of Short-Term Variations in Solar Activity on Total Electron Content
Authors: Mukhtarov Plamen , Bojilova Rumiana
Published: August 2024

In the present work, the variations in Total Electron Content (TEC) induced by changes in the ionizing radiation of the Sun, which are related to the rotation period (about 27 days), were investigated. This study was based on a 30-year period. The relative deviations in the TEC and F10.7 values were used in the data analysis. The use of this modification aimed to eliminate the stationary diurnal, seasonal, and solar course of the TEC over the course of the long-term variations in solar activity, preserving the variations within a time scale of 27 days and less. As a result, the values of the linear regression coefficient between the relative deviations in the two considered quantities from the median (quiet conditions) for one rotation period were obtained. Depending on the general level of solar activity, the season, and the latitude, this coefficient varied between 40% and 60%. The analysis showed that the minimum values were observed during high solar activity. The latitudinal distribution demonstrated an increase in the area of the Equatorial Ionization Anomaly (EIA) under the influence of the so-called “fountain effect”. As a result, there was a seasonal variation and an increase in the winter months at mid and high latitudes and a decrease in the months of the minimum zenith angle of the Sun at low latitudes. A well-pronounced asymmetry in the equinox months was also obtained. The obtained results are the novelty of this study and can be used to improve empirical models for short-term TEC forecasting.
Spatiotemporal Predictive Learning for Radar-Based Precipitation Nowcasting
Authors: Wang Xiaoying , Zhao Haixiang , Zhang Guojing , Guan Qin , Zhu Yu
Published: August 2024

Based on C-band weather radar and ground precipitation data from the Helan Mountain area in Yinchuan between 2017 to 2020, we evaluated the forecasting performances of 15 mainstream deep learning models used in recent years, including recurrent-based and recurrent-free models. The critical success index (CSI), probability of detection (POD), false alarm rate (FAR), mean square error (MSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and learned perceptual image patch similarity (LPIPS), were used to evaluate the forecasting abilities. The results showed that (1) recurrent-free models have significant parameter quantity and computing power advantages, especially the SimVP model. Among the recurrent-based models, PredRNN and PredRNN++ demonstrate good predictive capabilities for changes in echolocation and intensity, PredRNN++ performs better in predicting long sequences (1 h); (2) SimVP uses Inception to extract temporal features, which cannot capture the complex physical changes in radar echo images and fails to extract spatial–temporal correlations and accurately predict heavy rainfall areas effectively. Therefore, we constructed the SimVP-GMA model, replacing the temporal prediction module in SimVP and modifying the spatial encoder part. Compared with SimVP, the MSE and LPIPS indicators were improved by 0.55 and 0.0193, respectively. It can be seen from the forecast images that the forecast details have been significantly improved, especially in the forecasting of heavy rainfall weather.