bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Thermal Stability and Its Effect on the Corrosion Behaviour of Mg-RE Alloys Processed by High-Pressure Torsion
Authors: Azzeddine Hiba , Hanna Abdelkader , Dakhouche Achour , Baudin Thierry , Brisset François , Huang Yi , Langdon Terence G.
Published: April 2023

The evolutions of microstructure and texture and the corrosion behaviour of low light rare-earth containing Mg-1.4Nd and low heavy rare-earth containing Mg-0.6Gd and Mg-0.4Dy (wt.%) were evaluated and compared after processing by high-pressure torsion (HPT) and isochronal annealing at 250 and 450 °C for 1 h using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and electrochemical tests in a 3.5% (wt.%) NaCl solution. The EBSD results show that dynamic recrystallisation (DRX) was restricted in the Mg-1.4Nd alloy which led to a heterogenous deformation microstructure whereas the Mg-0.6Gd and Mg-0.4Dy alloys exhibited a homogenous deformation microstructure formed mostly of equiaxed dynamically recrystallised DRX grains. The HPT processing caused the development of a deviated basal texture in the three alloys. A good thermal stability of the three alloys was noticed after annealing at 250 °C. By contrast, annealing at 450 °C led to a homogenous equiaxed microstructure and weakening of texture for the Mg-1.4Nd alloy and a heterogenous bimodal microstructure with a stable basal texture for the Mg-0.6Gd and Mg-0.4Dy alloys. The HPT-processed Mg–RE alloys exhibited an improved corrosion resistance due to grain refinement. Thereafter, the corrosion resistance of the Mg-0.6Gd and Mg-0.4Dy alloys decreased with increasing annealing temperature due to an increase in grain size while the corrosion resistance of the Mg-1.4Nd alloy was improved after annealing at 450 °C due to precipitation and texture weakening.
Studying the Thermoelastic Waves Induced by Pulsed Lasers Due to the Interaction between Electrons and Holes on Semiconductor Materials under the Hall Current Effect
Authors: Becheikh Nidhal , Ghazouani Nejib , El-Bary Alaa A. , Lotfy Khaled
Published: April 2023

In the present work, the interaction between electrons and holes in semiconductor materials is investigated. According to the excitation process, the optical-elastic-thermal-diffusion (OETD) process is considered when the medium is exposed to a strong magnetic field and laser pulses. Photo-elastic and photo-electronics deformations are taken into account when the Hall current impact appears due to the magnetic field pressure on the semiconductor medium. Due to the complexity of the model, the governing equations that describe the system in one dimension (1D) are studied. Mathematical transformations (Laplace transform) were used to simplify the equations to obtain the physical quantities under study which were affected by laser pulses. To obtain complete solutions, some conditions were obtained from the free surface as well as from a mechanical ramp type and pulse heat flux, and then numerical transformations were applied using the inverse Laplace transform. Under the influence of several variables in this question, the results were explained graphically for silicon (Si) material and the results were analyzed in terms of their physical significance.
Effect of Chill Plate Thickness on Surface Hardening and Dimensional Accuracy of Nodular Cast Iron Gears Manufactured by the Chill Casting Method
Authors: Guterres Natalino , Rusnaldy Rusnaldy , Widodo Achmad
Published: April 2023

The gear manufacturing method is an important determinant of their performance and service life. Surface hardness and dimensional accuracy play a significant influence in determining wear and contact fatigue in gears. This study’s goal was to measure the gear profile dimensions and surface behavior of nodular cast iron made using the chill casting technique. Chill plates made of 304 stainless steel with thicknesses of 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 mm were used to provide good surface cooling rates during the chill casting of gears performed using open molds of silica sand. Chill plates are plated onto the walls of the mold, and then the molten material is poured at 1400 °C. The obtained gears were tested using photographs, microstructures, SEM-EDX, microhardness, wear, and dimensional measurements. The thickness of the chill plate can affect the hardening process of the gear surface. Thicker chill plates result in slower cooling rates, resulting in a more homogeneous microstructure and increasing the hardness level of the hardened layer. Whereas thinner chill plates result in a faster cooling rate, which results in a higher hardness and wear resistance of the hardened layer. Reducing the thickness of the chill plate from 0.6 mm to 0.2 mm increases the cooling rate and increases the amount of diffusion that can occur. The results showed that M7C3 and the (FeCrC)7C3 matrices were formed, with an average hardness within a range of 700–994.96 HV. A chill plate with a thickness of 0.4 mm produces gear with the best accuracy and precision.
An Elaboration on Sample Size Planning for Performing a One-Sample Sensitivity and Specificity Analysis by Basing on Calculations on a Specified 95% Confidence Interval Width
Authors: Bujang Mohamad Adam
Published: April 2023

Sample size calculation based on a specified width of 95% confidence interval will offer researchers the freedom to set the level of accuracy of the statistics that they aim to achieve for a particular study. This paper provides a description of the general conceptual context for performing sensitivity and specificity analysis. Subsequently, sample size tables for sensitivity and specificity analysis based on a specified 95% confidence interval width is then provided. Such recommendations for sample size planning are provided based on two different scenarios: one for a diagnostic purpose and another for a screening purpose. Further discussion on all the other relevant considerations for the determination of a minimum sample size requirement and on how to draft the sample size statement for performing sensitivity and specificity analysis are also provided.
Baseline 18F-FDG PET/CT Radiomics in Classical Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: The Predictive Role of the Largest and the Hottest Lesions
Authors: Triumbari Elizabeth Katherine Anna , Gatta Roberto , Maiolo Elena , De Summa Marco , Boldrini Luca , Mayerhoefer Marius E. , Hohaus Stefan , Nardo Lorenzo , Morland David , Annunziata Salvatore
Published: April 2023

This study investigated the predictive role of baseline 18F-FDG PET/CT (bPET/CT) radiomics from two distinct target lesions in patients with classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma (cHL). cHL patients examined with bPET/CT and interim PET/CT between 2010 and 2019 were retrospectively included. Two bPET/CT target lesions were selected for radiomic feature extraction: Lesion_A, with the largest axial diameter, and Lesion_B, with the highest SUVmax. Deauville score at interim PET/CT (DS) and 24-month progression-free-survival (PFS) were recorded. Mann–Whitney test identified the most promising image features (p < 0.05) from both lesions with regards to DS and PFS; all possible radiomic bivariate models were then built through a logistic regression analysis and trained/tested with a cross-fold validation test. The best bivariate models were selected based on their mean area under curve (mAUC). A total of 227 cHL patients were included. The best models for DS prediction had 0.78 ± 0.05 maximum mAUC, with a predominant contribution of Lesion_A features to the combinations. The best models for 24-month PFS prediction reached 0.74 ± 0.12 mAUC and mainly depended on Lesion_B features. bFDG-PET/CT radiomic features from the largest and hottest lesions in patients with cHL may provide relevant information in terms of early response-to-treatment and prognosis, thus representing an earlier and stronger decision-making support for therapeutic strategies. External validations of the proposed model are planned.
Fabrication of a Low-Cost Microfluidic Device for High-Throughput Drug Testing on Static and Dynamic Cancer Spheroid Culture Models
Authors: Do Tung Dinh , Pham Uyen Thu , Nguyen Linh Phuong , Nguyen Trang Minh , Bui Cuong Nguyen , Oliver Susan , Pham Phuong , Tran Toan Quoc , Hoang Bich Thi , Pham Minh Thi Hong , Pham Dung Thuy Nguyen , Nguyen Duong Thanh
Published: April 2023

Drug development is a complex and expensive process from new drug discovery to product approval. Most drug screening and testing rely on in vitro 2D cell culture models; however, they generally lack in vivo tissue microarchitecture and physiological functionality. Therefore, many researchers have used engineering methods, such as microfluidic devices, to culture 3D cells in dynamic conditions. In this study, a simple and low-cost microfluidic device was fabricated using Poly Methyl Methacrylate (PMMA), a widely available material, and the total cost of the completed device was USD 17.75. Dynamic and static cell culture examinations were applied to monitor the growth of 3D cells. α-MG-loaded GA liposomes were used as the drug to test cell viability in 3D cancer spheroids. Two cell culture conditions (i.e., static and dynamic) were also used in drug testing to simulate the effect of flow on drug cytotoxicity. Results from all assays showed that with the velocity of 0.005 mL/min, cell viability was significantly impaired to nearly 30% after 72 h in a dynamic culture. This device is expected to improve in vitro testing models, reduce and eliminate unsuitable compounds, and select more accurate combinations for in vivo testing.
Comparison of the Outcomes between Systematic Lymph Node Dissection and Lobe-Specific Lymph Node Dissection for Stage I Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Huang Ching-Chun , Tang En-Kuei , Shu Chih-Wen , Chou Yi-Ping , Goan Yih-Gang , Tseng Yen-Chiang
Published: April 2023

Background: This study compares the surgical and long-term outcomes, including disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS), between lobe-specific lymph node dissection (L-SND) and systematic lymph node dissection (SND) among patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).Methods: In this retrospective study, 107 patients diagnosed with clinical stage I NSCLC undergoing video-assisted thoracic surgery lobectomy (exclusion of the right middle lobe) from January 2011 to December 2018 were enrolled. The patients were assigned to the L-SND (n = 28) and SND (n = 79) groups according to the procedure performed on them. Demographics, perioperative data, and surgical and long-term oncological outcomes were collected and compared between the L-SND and SND groups. Results: The mean follow-duration was 60.6 months. The demographic data and surgical outcomes and long-term oncological outcomes were not significantly different between the two groups. The 5-year OS of the L-SND and SND groups was 82% and 84%, respectively. The 5-year DFS of the L-SND and SND groups was 70% and 65%, respectively. The 5-year CSS of the L-SND and SND groups was 80% and 86%, respectively. All the surgical and long-term outcomes were not statistically different between the two groups. Conclusion: L-SND showed comparable surgical and oncologic outcomes with SND for clinical stage I NSCLC. L-SND could be a treatment choice for stage I NSCLC.
Association between Time from Dinner to Bedtime and Sleep Quality Indices in the Young Japanese Population: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yasuda Jun , Kishi Nanami , Fujita Satoshi
Published: April 2023

Sleep quality (duration, efficiency, and latency) is directly associated with human health. An interventional study reported that the time of dinner influenced sleep latency, suggesting that it may also be associated with other sleep quality indices under free-living conditions. Therefore, we cross-sectionally examined the association between the time from dinner to bedtime (TDB) and sleep quality indices under free-living conditions in the young Japanese population. Based on the TDB, 264 participants were separated into three quantiles (T1, ≤3.79 h; T2, 3.80–4.94 h; T3, ≥4.95 h from dinner to bedtime). The T1 (mean ± standard error; 26.4 ± 2.2 min, p = 0.081) and T2 groups (30.8 ± 2.2 min, p = 0.001) showed longer sleep latency compared to the T3 group (19.6 ± 2.2 min), after adjusting for confounding factors. Sleep efficiency in the T1 group (77.5 ± 1.6%) tended to be greater than in the T3 group (72.1 ± 1.6%, p = 0.061), whereas sleep efficiency in the T2 group was not significantly different (77.0 ± 1.6%) from that in the T1 group. Therefore, shortened TDB was associated with prolonged sleep latency in free-living conditions. Meal timing, especially dinner, should be considered along with other sleep hygiene measures to improve human health.
Orthodontic Treatment of Palatally Impacted Maxillary Canines with the Use of a Digitally Designed and 3D-Printed Metal Device
Authors: Vasoglou Georgios , Lyros Ioannis , Patatou Athanasia , Vasoglou Michail
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this article is to present a computer designed and 3D-printed metal device, which was used for the surgical exposure and orthodontic treatment of maxillary palatally impacted canines. In two cases which presented a palatally impacted canine, a Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) was acquired and an intraoral scanning was performed, to determine the exact location of the canine. Based on a digital model, a device leaning on the teeth and mucosa was designed to serve as a guiding tool for the oral surgeon to expose the crown of the canine and help the orthodontist to provide proper traction. The device was then 3D-printed in biocompatible dental alloy and placed in the patients’ mouth. After the surgical exposure of the canine’s crown in both cases, a gold chain apparatus was bonded on and it was mounted on the metal projection of the device through an elastic chain. Within 3 months of traction, the crown of the canines appeared in the patients’ palate to the exact location that was predicted and guided. A 3D-designed and manufactured metal device, with information acquired by CBCT and intraoral scanning, can be used for the exposure and traction of palatally impacted canines.
Change Detection Applications in the Earth Sciences Using UAS-Based Sensing: A Review and Future Opportunities
Authors: Andresen Christian G. , Schultz-Fellenz Emily S.
Published: April 2023

Over the past decade, advancements in collection platforms such as unoccupied aerial systems (UAS), survey-grade GNSS, sensor packages, processing software, and spatial analytical tools have facilitated change detection analyses at an unprecedented resolution over broader spatial and temporal extents and in environments where such investigations present challenges. These technological improvements, coupled with the accessibility and versatility of UAS technology, have pushed the boundaries of spatial and temporal scales in geomorphic change detection. As a result, the cm-scale analysis of topographic signatures can detect and quantify surface anomalies during geomorphic evolution. This review focuses on the use of UAS photogrammetry for fine spatial (cm) and temporal (hours to days) scale geomorphic analyses, and it highlights analytical approaches to detect and quantify surface processes that were previously elusive. The review provides insight into topographic change characterization with precise spatial validations applied to landscape processes in various fields, such as the cryosphere and geosphere, as well as anthropogenic earth processes and national security applications. This work sheds light on previously unexplored aspects of both natural and human-engineered environments, demonstrating the potential of UAS observations in change detection. Our discussion examines the emerging horizons of UAS-based change detection, including machine learning and LIDAR systems. In addition, our meta-analysis of spatial and temporal UAS-based observations highlights the new fine-scale niche of UAS-photogrammetry. This scale advancement sets a new frontier in change detection, offering exciting possibilities for the future of land surface analysis and environmental monitoring in the field of Earth Science.
Exploring the Impact of Web 2.0 Tools on 21st Century Skills of EFL Learners in Pakistan
Authors: Mahmud Malissa Maria , Fatima Tehreem , Lashari Tahira Anwar , Waheed Zahra
Published: April 2023

In today’s globalized world, 21st century skills, such as communication and collaboration, are essential for success. For EFL (English as a foreign language) learners in Pakistan, acquiring these skills can be challenging due to the unique linguistic and cultural barriers they face. Web 2.0 tools, such as Padlet, can provide a platform for EFL learners to improve their communication and collaboration skills in a collaborative and engaging manner. The present study explores the potential of using Padlet to improve the 21st century skills of EFL learners in Pakistan. A quasi-experiment is conducted to compare the effectiveness of using Padlet versus traditional language-learning methods to improve EFL learners’ communication and collaboration skills. Learners’ perceptions of using Padlet in a collaborative learning context are also investigated. The findings indicated that the use of Padlet has a significant and positive effect on learners’ collaboration and communication skills, and that learners have a positive perception of using this tool in a collaborative learning context. The study provides preliminary and context-specific novel insights for language educators and learners on the potential of using Padlet to enhance the 21st century skills of EFL learners in Pakistan.
Mobile Technology as an Alternative Teaching Strategy Amidst COVID-19 Hiatus: Exploring Pedagogical Possibilities and Implications for Teacher Development
Authors: Qazi Ali Gohar , Mustafa Muhammad Yasir , Mtenzi Fredrick Japhet , Valcke Martin
Published: April 2023

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the education sector worldwide had to adapt rapidly from in-person to virtual modes of teaching and learning to mitigate the spread of the virus. In a short period of time, teachers were forced to find new and innovative ways of delivering education to their students to ensure the continuation of education. In this context, this paper investigates how teachers in Pakistan leveraged mobile technology as an alternative teaching strategy to provide access to and to ensure the continuation of education. Through in-depth interviews with 13 selected teachers, this study explores the potential of mobile technology to offer alternative teaching and learning arenas. The findings underscore the importance of embracing new pedagogical possibilities offered by mobile technology and the significance of effective teacher professional development in the post-pandemic era. This study provides valuable insights into the utilization of mobile technology in the education sector, even in the most challenging circumstances, and highlights the potential for mobile learning to contribute to education reform.
A Fast Estimation Algorithm for Parameters of Multiple Frequency-Hopping Signals Based on Compressed Spectrum Sensing and Maximum Likelihood
Authors: Li Yixing , Wang Furong , Fan Gang , Liu Yang , Zhang Ya
Published: April 2023

The parameter estimation of multiple frequency-hopping (multiple FH) signals with frequency-switching time is a great challenge under conditions in which the number of signals is unknown. Due to the increasing mobility of devices such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), speed of parameter estimation is even more demanding. To solve this problem, an algorithm for estimating parameters of multiple FH signals based on compressed spectrum sensing and maximum likelihood (CSML) theory is proposed in this paper. First, the received signal is split into segments of the same length, and the frequencies contained in each segment are extracted using compressed spectrum sensing and kurtosis threshold. Next, the frequencies contained in adjacent segments are compared to find the signal segment in which frequency hopping occurs and its corresponding frequency. Finally, a hopping-time fast estimation algorithm based on the maximum likelihood theory is used to estimate the hopping time. Simulation results show that the algorithm proposed in this paper can estimate the parameters of multiple FH signals quickly and accurately when the number of signals is unknown and that it is equally effective for multiple FH signals with frequency-switching time.
Current Drops in CF4 Plasma-Treated AlGaN/GaN Heterojunction in Polar Gas Ambient
Authors: Ma Ying , Chen Liang , Dong Zhihua , Hong Yifang , Xiao Yang , Xin Yijie , Zhang Bin , Qin Hua , Zhang Ting , Zhang Xiaodong , Yu Guohao , Cheng Zhiqun , Mao Lingfeng , Cai Yong
Published: April 2023

This letter reports the phenomenon of current drops in an AlGaN/GaN heterojunction with CF4 plasma treated in a polar gas ambient. Ungated AlGaN/GaN HEMT with CF4 plasma treatment was tested in ethanol, acetonitrile, and an acetic acid gas ambient, and the current dropped by 52%, 51% and 61%, respectively, which are much higher than the drops (6%, 7%, and 8%) in normal ungated HEMT. On the one hand, based on “ambient doping”, a possible model was proposed to explain this phenomenon. On the other hand, the lower initial current was very important to increase the sensitivity. This means that the initial current should be elaborately designed to achieve maximum sensitivity.
An Ultra-Wideband Plane Wave Generator for 5G Base Station Antenna Measurement
Authors: Li Xinzhong , Chen Litao , Wang Zhengpeng , Yang Ke , Miao Jungang
Published: April 2023

Plane-wave generators (PWGs) for over-the-air testing of 5G base stations offer the advantages of efficiency and economy. Many new bands, such as n28, are progressively being introduced, driving the bandwidth improvement of PWGs. The cost of amplitude–phase control networks is also increased by the broadband range required for testing. In view of the above challenges, in this paper, a low-frequency ultra-wideband PWG for testing 5G base stations is reported. Firstly, an electrically small antenna unit based on the Vivaldi antenna is design for the PWG. The antenna unit has a wide operating band and compact size, allowing it to reach a quarter of the minimum frequency wavelength. Then, the operating band from 700 MHz to 4 GHz is divided into three sub-bands, and the amplitude and phase excitations within each sub-band are optimized with multiple frequency points. Finally, the designed ultra-wideband PWG is simulated and experimentally tested. The designed 2.64 m one-dimensional linear-array PWG is able to produce a 1.5 m × 1.32 m quiet zone with less than 1.0 dB and 10°. The results of the radiation pattern measurements for the base station agree reasonably well with the MVG SG128.
Correction: Zhang, H.; Wang, P. An Improved 3D Ultra-Wideband High-Efficiency Substrate Integrated Coaxial Meander Delay Line. Electronics 2022, 11, 3869
Authors: Zhang Hongxi , Wang Pei
Published: April 2023

Change in Affiliation [...]
Battery Swapping Station Pricing Optimization Considering Market Clearing and Electric Vehicles’ Driving Demand
Authors: Geng Xuewen , An Fengbin , Wang Chengmin , He Xi
Published: April 2023

With the development of the new energy vehicle market, the pricing of battery swapping stations (BSS) is becoming a concern. The pricing models of BSS usually only consider the interaction between the distribution system operator (DSO) and the BSS or between the BSS and electric vehicles (EVs). The impact of DSO and EVs on the pricing strategy of BSS has received less attention, which does not reflect the actual complex situation. Therefore, we propose a three-level BSS pricing method that includes market clearing and EV behaviors. Firstly, the distribution locational marginal price (DLMP) is modeled to determine the impact of the DSO on BSS. Secondly, the EV demand response is used to estimate the impact of EVs on BSS. Thirdly, to increase the adaptability of this model, an iteration algorithm with approximations and relaxations is used with mixed integer linear programming, effectively solving the pricing optimization. According to this optimization, it is evident that the BSS make decisions in the market environment by monitoring the quantity of batteries in various states and generate extra income by acting in response to price fluctuations in the electricity market. The model’s viability and applicability are confirmed.
A Study on the Spontaneous Ignition of Some Ligneous Pellets
Authors: Ferreira Tânia , Marques Edmundo , Paiva João Monney , Pinho Carlos
Published: April 2023

A preliminary non-exhaustive study was conducted on the ignition of some ligneous biomass pellets inside a laboratory scale traveling bed furnace. The experiments consisted in the measurement of the ignition time of volatiles released by six different types of pellets, obtained from wood species found in the Portuguese forest, namely Pinus pinaster, Acacia dealbata, Cytisus scoparius, Cistus ladanifer, Paulownia cotevisa and Eucalyptus globulus. The experiments were carried out at corrected furnace temperatures of 359, 381, 403, 424 and 443 °C, using two different pellet sizes and with batches of 6 and 8 g of pellets. The ignition time was determined measuring the time elapsed between placing the batch of pellets on the traveling grate and the volatiles’ ignition moment. Its dependency was linear, and an increase in ignition time with the furnace temperature was verified. Pinus pinaster was the species that presented a higher ignition time and Cytisus scoparius the shortest. For the same pellets size, an increase in the mass of batches led to shorter ignition times.
Artificial Neural Network Prediction of Minimum Fluidization Velocity for Mixtures of Biomass and Inert Solid Particles
Authors: Reyes-Urrutia Andres , Capossio Juan Pablo , Venier Cesar , Torres Erick , Rodriguez Rosa , Mazza Germán
Published: April 2023

The fluidization of certain biomasses used in thermal processes, such as sawdust, is particularly difficult due to their irregular shapes, varied sizes, and low densities, causing high minimum fluidization velocities (Umf). The addition of an inert material causes its Umf to drop significantly. The determination of the Umf of the binary mixture is however hard to obtain. Generally, predictive correlations are based on a small number of specific experiments, and sphericity is seldom included. In the present work, three models, i.e., an empirical correlation and two artificial neural networks (ANN) models were used to predict the Umf of biomass-inert mixtures. An extensive bibliographical survey of more than 200 datasets was conducted with complete data about densities, particle diameters, sphericities, biomass fraction, and Umf. With the combined application of the partial dependence plot (PDP) and the ANN models, the average effect of sphericity on Umf was quantitatively determined (inverse relationship) together with the average impact of the biomass fraction on Umf (direct relationship). In comparison with the empirical correlations, the results showed that both ANN models can accurately predict the Umf of the presented binary mixtures with errors lower than 25%.
Pectin from Fruit- and Berry-Juice Production by-Products: Determination of Physicochemical, Antioxidant and Rheological Properties
Authors: Konrade Daiga , Gaidukovs Sergejs , Vilaplana Francisco , Sivan Pramod
Published: April 2023

Plums (Prunus domestica); red currants (Ribes rubrum); black currants (Ribes nigrum); gooseberries (Ribes uva-crispa); sour cherries (Prunus cerasus); pumpkins (Cuccurbita spp.) are sources for valuable fruit- and berry-juice and cider production. This process leaves a large number of by-products (BP) in the form of pomace, which accounts for up to 80% of the raw material. This by-product represents a rich source of biologically active compounds, especially in the form of different pectic polysaccharides. The pectin extracted from commercial fruits such as citric fruits and apples has high medicinal properties, can be used as edible films and coatings, and is also useful in texture improvement and gel production in the food industry. However, many under-utilized fruits have received little attention regarding the extraction and characterization of their high/value pectin from their by-products. Moreover, the commercial extraction process involving strong acids and high temperature to obtain high-purity pectin leads to the loss of many bioactive components, and these lost components are often compensated for by the addition of synthetic antioxidants and colorants. The aim of the research is to extract pectin from juice production by-products with hot-water extraction using weak organic (0.1 N) citric acid, thus minimizing the impact on the environment. The yield of pectin (PY = 4.47–17.8% DM), galacturonic acid content (47.22–83.57 g 100−1), ash content (1.42–2.88 g 100 g−1), degree of esterification (DE = 45.16–64.06%), methoxyl content (ME = 4.27–8.13%), the total content of phenolic compounds (TPC = 2.076–4.668 µg mg−1, GAE) and the antiradical scavenging activity of the pectin samples (DPPH method (0.56–37.29%)) were determined. Free and total phenolic acids were quantified by saponification using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The pectin contained phenolic acids—benzoic (0.25–0.92 µg mg−1), gallic (0.14–0.57 µg mg−1), coumaric (0.04 µg mg−1), and caffeic (0.03 µg mg−1). The pectin extracts from by-products showed glucose and galactose (3.89–21.72 g 100 g−1) as the main neutral sugar monosaccharides. Pectin analysis was performed using FT-IR, and the rheological properties of the pectin gels were determined. The quality of the obtained pectin from the fruit and berry by-products in terms of their high biological activity and high content of glucuronic acids indicated that the products have the potential to be used as natural ingredients in various food products and in pharmaceutical products.
Effects of Different Processing Methods on the Quality and Physicochemical Characteristics of Laminaria japonica
Authors: Yang Zuomiao , Li Xueting , Yu Meiqi , Jiang Shan , Qi Hang
Published: April 2023

The effects of four domestic cooking methods, including blanching, steaming, boiling, and baking treatments, on processing properties, bioactive compound, pigments, flavor components, and tissue structure of Laminaria japonica were investigated. The results showed that the color and structure of kelp changed most obviously after baking; steaming was most beneficial in reducing the color change of the kelp (ΔE < 1), while boiling was most effective in maintaining the texture of the kelp (its hardness and chewiness were close to that of raw kelp); eight volatile compounds were detected in raw kelp, four and six compounds were detected in blanched and boiled kelp, while eleven and thirty kinds of compounds were detected in steamed and baked kelp, respectively. In addition, the contents of phloroglucinol and fucoxanthin in kelp after the four processing methods were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). However, of all the methods, steaming and boiling were the best at preserving these two bioactive substances (phloroglucinol and fucoxanthin) in kelp. Therefore, steaming and boiling seemed more appropriate to maintain the original quality of the kelp. Generally, to improve the sensory characteristics of each meal of Laminaria japonica and to maximize the retention of active nutrients, several different processing methods are provided according to the respective effects.
Insights into the Edible and Biodegradable Ulvan-Based Films and Coatings for Food Packaging
Authors: Wang Huatian , Cao Zhen , Yao Lingyun , Feng Tao , Song Shiqing , Sun Min
Published: April 2023

Recently, edible films or coatings that are made from algal polysaccharides have become promising candidates for replacing plastic-based packaging materials for food storage due to their non-toxic, biodegradable, biocompatible, and bioactive characteristics. Ulvan, a significant biopolymer with unique functional properties derived from marine green algae, has been extensively used in various sectors. However, there are fewer commercial applications of this sugar in the food packaging industry compared to many other algae-derived polysaccharides, such as alginates, carrageenan, and agar. This article aims to review the unparalleled chemical composition/structure and physiochemical properties of ulvan and the latest developments in ulvan-based edible films and coatings, thus highlighting their potential applications in the food packaging industry.
A Comparison Result for the Nabla Fractional Difference Operator
Authors: Jonnalagadda Jagan Mohan
Published: April 2023

This article establishes a comparison principle for the nabla fractional difference operator ∇ρ(a)ν, 1<ν<2. For this purpose, we consider a two-point nabla fractional boundary value problem with separated boundary conditions and derive the corresponding Green’s function. I prove that this Green’s function satisfies a positivity property. Then, I deduce a relatively general comparison result for the considered boundary value problem.
A Fast Computational Scheme for Solving the Temporal-Fractional Black–Scholes Partial Differential Equation
Authors: Ghabaei Rouhollah , Lotfi Taher , Ullah Malik Zaka , Shateyi Stanford
Published: April 2023

In this work, we propose a fast scheme based on higher order discretizations on graded meshes for resolving the temporal-fractional partial differential equation (PDE), which benefits the memory feature of fractional calculus. To avoid excessively increasing the number of discretization points, such as the standard finite difference or meshfree methods, and, at the same time, to increase the efficiency of the solver, we employ discretizations on spatially non-uniform meshes with an attention on the non-smoothness area of the underlying asset. Therefore, the PDE problem is transformed to a linear system of algebraic equations. We perform numerical simulations to observe and check the behavior of the presented scheme in contrast to the existing methods.
Onsager’s Energy Conservation of Weak Solutions for a Compressible and Inviscid Fluid
Authors: Wu Xinglong , Zhou Qian
Published: April 2023

In this article, two classes of sufficient conditions of weak solutions are given to guarantee the energy conservation of the compressible Euler equations. Our strategy is to introduce a test function φ(t)vϵ to derive the total energy. The velocity field v needs to be regularized both in time and space. In contrast to the noncompressible Euler equations, the compressible flows we consider here do not have a divergence-free structure. Therefore, it is necessary to make an additional estimate of the pressure p, which takes advantage of an appropriate commutator. In addition, by using the weak convergence, we show that the energy equality is conserved in a point-wise sense.
The Effect of Hyaluronic Acid Gel on Periodontal Parameters, Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines and Biochemical Markers in Periodontitis Patients
Authors: Mohammad Chenar Anwar , Mirza Barzan Abdulwahab , Mahmood Zainab Salim , Zardawi Faraedon Mostafa
Published: April 2023

Hyaluronic acid in its various forms shows bacteriostatic, fungistatic, anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous, osteoinductive, and pro-angiogenetic properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of subgingival delivery of 0.8% hyaluronic acid (HA) gel on clinical periodontal parameters, pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1 beta and TNF-alpha) and biochemical markers of inflammation (C-reactive protein (CRP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzymes) in patients with periodontitis. Seventy-five patients with chronic periodontitis were divided randomly into three groups (25 in each group): group I received scaling and surface root debridement (SRD) + HA gel; group II received SRD + chlorhexidine gel; and group III received surface root debridement alone. Clinical periodontal parameter measurements and blood samples were collected to estimate pro-inflammatory and biochemical parameters at the baseline before therapy and after two months of therapy. The results show that HA gel has a significant effect on the reduction in clinical periodontal parameters (PI, GI, BOP, PPD, and CAL), IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha, CRP, and ALP after 2 months of therapy as compared to the baseline (p < 0.05) with nonsignificant differences from the CHX group (p > 0.05), except GI (p < 0.05), and significant differences from the SRD group (p < 0.05). Moreover, significant differences were found between the three groups regarding the mean improvements of GI, BOP, PPD, IL-1β, CRP, and ALP. It can be concluded that HA gel has a positive effect on clinical periodontal parameters and improvements in inflammatory mediators similar to chlorhexidine. Therefore, HA gel can be used as an adjuvant to SRD in the treatment of periodontitis.
Injectable Hydrogels Based on Cyclodextrin/Cholesterol Inclusion Complexation and Loaded with 5-Fluorouracil/Methotrexate for Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Almawash Saud , Mohammed Ahmed M. , El Hamd Mohamed A. , Osman Shaaban K.
Published: April 2023

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women worldwide. Long-term treatment with conventional chemotherapy may result in severe systemic side effects. Therefore, the localized delivery of chemotherapy helps to overcome such a problem. In this article, self-assembling hydrogels were constructed via inclusion complexation between host β-cyclodextrin polymers (8armPEG20k-CD and pβ-CD) and the guest polymers 8-armed poly(ethylene glycol) capped either with cholesterol (8armPEG20k-chol) or adamantane (8armPEG20k-Ad) and were loaded with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and methotrexate (MTX). The prepared hydrogels were characterized by SEM and rheological behaviors. The in vitro release of 5-FU and MTX was studied. The cytotoxicity of our modified systems was investigated against breast tumor cells (MCF-7) using an MTT assay. Additionally, the histopathological changes in breast tissues were monitored before and after their intratumor injection. The results of rheological characterization indicated the viscoelastic behavior in all cases except for 8armPEG-Ad. In vitro release results showed a variable range of release profiles from 6 to 21 days, depending on the hydrogel composition. MTT findings indicated the inhibition ability of our systems against the viability of cancer cells depending on the kind and concentration of the hydrogel and the incubation period. Moreover, the results of histopathology showed the improvement of cancer manifestation (swelling and inflammation) after intratumor injection of loaded hydrogel systems. In conclusion, the obtained results indicated the applicability of the modified hydrogels as injectable vehicles for both loading and controlled release of anticancer therapies.
Knowledge, Perceptions, and Readiness of Telepharmacy among Hospital Pharmacists in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Ahmed Nehad J. , Almalki Ziyad S. , Alsawadi Asmaa H. , Alturki Abdulmohsen A. , Bakarman Abdulaziz H. , Almuaddi Alwaleed M. , Alshahrani Saeed M. , Alanazi Meshari B. , Alshehri Ahmed M. , Albassam Ahmed A. , Alahmari Abdullah K. , Alem Ghada M. , Aldosari Saad A. , Alamer Ahmad A.
Published: April 2023

Telepharmacy is a technology-based service that provides promoted services such as counseling, medication administration and compounding, drug therapy monitoring, and prescription review. It is unclear whether hospital pharmacists possess the necessary knowledge, attitudes, and willingness to practice telepharmacy. The current study sought to investigate Saudi Arabian hospital pharmacists’ understanding, attitudes, and level of preparedness for telepharmacy services. A total of 411 pharmacists responded to the survey. Only 43.33% of the respondents agreed that telepharmacy is available in Saudi Arabia and 36.67% of the respondents agreed that patients in rural areas can have more medication access and information via telepharmacy. Only 29.33% of pharmacists agreed that telepharmacy improves patient medication adherence, and about 34.00% of the pharmacists agreed that telepharmacy saves patients money and time by eliminating the need for them to travel to healthcare facilities. This research found that hospital pharmacists were unsure of their level of knowledge, their attitude toward telepharmacy, and their willingness to incorporate it into their future pharmacy practices. To ensure that tomorrow’s pharmacists have the skills they need to provide telepharmacy services, telepharmacy practice models must be incorporated into the educational programs that prepare them.
Are Nurse Coordinators Really Performing Coordination Pathway Activities? A Comparative Analysis of Case Studies in Oncology
Authors: Acero Maria-Ximena , Minvielle Etienne , Waelli Mathias
Published: April 2023

Patient Pathway Coordination (PPC) improves patient care quality and safety, particularly in oncology. PPC roles, such as nurse coordinators (NCs), have positively impacted the quality of patient care and reduced financial costs. However, NCs and their real activities in Health Care Organizations (HCOs) are unclear. Our aim was to identify, quantify, and compare all activities performed by NCs in oncology care settings from an organizational approach. Methods: We used qualitative and quantitative approaches based on case study principles. We accumulated 325 observation hours by shadowing and timing the activities of 14 NCs in four French HCO in oncology. Data analysis was conducted using an analytical framework to investigate the Activity of PAtient PAthway Nurse Coordinators in Oncology (APANCO). Results: Our research generated important findings: (1) NC roles and job titles are not standardized. (2) Non-coordination related activities are important in NC work content. Non-coordination times were consistent with distribution times between ward NCs and NCs in centralized structures. Ward NCs had higher non-coordination activities when compared with NCs in centralized structures. (3) PPC times varied for both ward NCs and NCs in centralized structures. Ward NCs performed less design coordination when compared with NCs in centralized structures, and this latter group also performed more external coordination than ward NCs. Conclusions: NCs do not just perform PPC activities. Their position in HCO structures, wards, or centralized structures, influence their work content. Centralized structures allow NCs to focus on their PPC roles. We also highlight different dimensions of NC work and training requirements. Our study could help managers and decision-makers develop PPC roles in oncology.
Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Mechanisms Underlying the Difference in Anthocyanin Accumulation in Apple Fruits at Different Altitudes
Authors: Shi Caiyun , Wei Zhifeng , Liu Li , Li Ming , Liu Junwei , Gao Dengtao
Published: April 2023

The red color of apple peel is an important phenotypic and economic trait mainly attributed to anthocyanin accumulation. Apples show a deeper red color at higher altitudes than at lower ones; however, the molecular regulatory network underlying color variation along altitudinal gradients has not been investigated. In this study, the effects of environmental conditions associated with low (124 m) and high (1901 m) altitudes on peel color were assessed through physiological, metabolomic, transcriptomic, and qRT-PCR analyses in Huashuo apple and its sister line, Huarui apple. The content of cyanidin-3-O-galactoside, cyanidin-3-O-arabinoside, and cyanidin-3-O-xyloside was abundant in the high-altitude environment and may contribute to the deeper red color. Transcript levels of structural genes in the anthocyanin synthesis pathway, especially MdCHI, MdCHS, MdANS, and MdDFR, in apple peel were significantly higher at high altitude than at low altitude. Based on the protein interaction prediction and correlation analyses, four transcription factors (MDP0000127691, MDP0000284922, MDP0000758053, and MDP0000074681) could interact with anthocyanin synthesis-related proteins, showing high correlation with anthocyanin accumulation. Therefore, the abovementioned four genes and four transcription factors were predicted to account for the color differences between high and low altitudes. These results provide genetic resources and a theoretical basis for color-oriented fruit improvement.
Survival and State of Garlic Explants of Two Lithuanian Cultivars after Cryopreservation
Authors: Juškevičienė Danguolė , Karklelienė Rasa , Radzevičius Audrius , Rugienius Rytis
Published: April 2023

Cryopreservation features of Lithuanian garlic (Allium sativum L.) cultivars ‘Žiemiai’ and ‘Dangiai’ were investigated. The survival rate and state of explants, depending on the type of explant, and dehydration conditions were evaluated in the experiment. Explants isolated from cloves and bulbils were dehydrated with a plant vitrification solution 3 (PVS 3) containing 50% w/v glycerol and 50% w/v sucrose in liquid MS medium. Three different exposure durations of 1.5, 2, and 3 h in PVS3 solution were applied at 0 °C. Unloaded stem domes were planted in Petri dishes with MS medium supplemented with 1 mg L−1 naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and 6–dimethylallylamino purine (2-iP) on 0.8% plant agar. The obtained results showed that the cryopreservation in liquid nitrogen reduced the survival rate of explants by 20–40%. The average number of surviving explants after freezing reached 64.3% for both cultivars. Cultivar ‘Žiemiai’ showed a 24% higher capability for survival than ‘Dangiai’. The total number of surviving explants of ‘Žiemiai’ reached 76.1%. Explants from bulbils were 23% more effective for cryopreservation compared to cloves. Evaluation of the effect of dehydration duration showed that the survival rate of the explants from bulbils of both cultivars was highest after treatment with PVS3 for 3 h and reached 91%. Treatment in PVS3 solution for 2 h was sufficient for survival of explants from cloves. Obtained results confirm that the efficiency of garlic cryopreservation depends on complex factors.
Breakthrough Analysis of Chemical Composition and Applied Chemometrics of European Plum Cultivars Grown in Norway
Authors: Fotirić Akšić Milica , Tešić Živoslav , Kalaba Milica , Ćirić Ivanka , Pezo Lato , Lončar Biljana , Gašić Uroš , Dojčinović Biljana , Tosti Tomislav , Meland Mekjell
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study was to find the chemical parameters for the differentiation of plum cultivars grown along the fjord areas of Western Norway and Eastern Norway, having specific agroclimatic conditions. Chemical analysis of the fruits confirmed the contents of 13 quantified elements, 22 sugar compounds, 11 organic acids, 19 phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity in 68 plum cultivars. Dominated contents were noted for nitrogen (with the maximum mean value of 3.11%), potassium (8055.80 mg/kg), and phosphorous (7878.88 mg/kg). Averagely, the highest level of sugars was determined for glucose (244.46 g/kg), fructose (197.92 g/kg), sucrose (208.25 g/kg), and sorbitol (98.02 g/kg), organic acids for malic acid (24.06 g/kg), and for polyphenol compounds were 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (66.31 mg/kg), and rutin (58.06 mg/kg). Applied principal component analysis has been useful for distinguishing the plum cultivars from three areas in Norway where copper, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, and sodium; sucrose, ribose, maltose, and raffinose; p-hydroxybenzoic acid, rutin, ferulic acid, kaempferol 7-O-glucoside, p-coumaric acid, and 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid were the most influential. In regard to human health and future breeding work that will have the aim to produce functional food with high health-related compounds, the plum cultivar ‘Mallard’ should be underlined due to the high level of elements, ‘Valor’ due to high sugar content, ‘Helgøyplomme’ due to content of organic acids, and ‘Diamond’ due to the content of phenolic compounds.