bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Power Exchange Cost Considering Behavioral Intervention in Local Energy Community
Authors: Mochi Pratik , Pandya Kartik , Soares Joao , Vale Zita
Published: May 2023

In order to encourage energy saving and the adoption of renewable sources, this study provides a comprehensive experimental framework that integrates socioeconomic and behavioral objectives for the local energy community. The experiment aims to find out how successfully using behavioral interventions might encourage customers to save electrical energy and encourage them to adopt renewable energy, e.g., solar photovoltaic energy, in the present case. Using this method, we can calculate the causal impact of the intervention on consumer participation in the local electricity sector. The study uses consumer data on the import and export of electrical power from retailer electricity utilities at a predetermined power exchange price and a midmarket price for local energy community power transactions. The local energy community model simulates the consumption, storage, and export of 20 residential customers who, in different scenarios, are the test subjects of an empirical experiment and embrace electricity conservation and renewable energy. We address the optimization issue of calculating the power exchange cost and revenue in various scenarios and comparing them with the base case cost. The cases are built on the customers’ behavioral interventions’ empirical response. The findings demonstrate that the interaction of socioeconomic and behavioral objectives leads to impressive cost savings of up to 19.26% for energy utility customers. The policy implication is suggested for local energy utilities.
Leisure Time Prediction and Influencing Factors Analysis Based on LightGBM and SHAP
Authors: Wang Qiyan , Jiang Yuanyuan
Published: May 2023

Leisure time is crucial for personal development and leisure consumption. Accurate prediction of leisure time and analysis of its influencing factors creates a benefit by increasing personal leisure time. We predict leisure time and analyze its key influencing factors according to survey data of Beijing residents’ time allocation in 2011, 2016, and 2021, with an effective sample size of 3356. A Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) model is utilized to classify and predict leisure time, and the SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) approach is utilized to conduct feature importance analysis and influence mechanism analysis of influencing factors from four perspectives: time allocation, demographics, occupation, and family characteristics. The results verify that LightGBM effectively predicts personal leisure time, with the test set’s accuracy, recall, and F1 values being 0.85 and the AUC value reaching 0.91. The results of SHAP highlight that work/study time within the system is the main constraint on leisure time. Demographic factors, such as gender and age, are also of great significance for leisure time. Occupational and family heterogeneity exist in leisure time as well. The results contribute to the government improving the public holiday system, companies designing personalized leisure products for users with different leisure characteristics, and residents understanding and independently increasing their leisure time.
An Analysis of a Fractional-Order Model of Colorectal Cancer and the Chemo-Immunotherapeutic Treatments with Monoclonal Antibody
Authors: Alhajraf Ali , Yousef Ali , Bozkurt Fatma
Published: May 2023

The growth of colorectal cancer tumors and their reactions to chemo-immunotherapeutic treatment with monoclonal antibodies (mAb) are discussed in this paper using a system of fractional order differential equations (FDEs). mAb medications are still at the research stage; however, this research takes into account the mAbs that are already in use. The major goal is to demonstrate the effectiveness of the mAb medication Cetuximab and the significance of IL-2 levels in immune system support. The created model is broken down into four sub-systems: cell populations, irinotecan (CPT11) concentration for treatment, IL-2 concentration for immune system support, and monoclonal antibody Cetuximab. We show the existence and uniqueness of the initial value problem (IVP). After that, we analyze the stability of the equilibrium points (disease-free and co-existing) using the Routh–Hurwitz criteria. In addition, in applying the discretization process, we demonstrate the global stability of the constructed system around the equilibrium points based on specific conditions. In the end, simulation results were carried out to support the theory of the manuscript.
An Improved YOLOv5 Crack Detection Method Combined with a Bottleneck Transformer
Authors: Yu Gui , Zhou Xinglin
Published: May 2023

Efficient detection of pavement cracks can effectively prevent traffic accidents and reduce road maintenance costs. In this paper, an improved YOLOv5 network combined with a Bottleneck Transformer is proposed for crack detection, called YOLOv5-CBoT. By combining the CNN and Transformer, YOLOv5-CBoT can better capture long-range dependencies to obtain more global information, so as to adapt to the long-span detection task of cracks. Moreover, the C2f module, which is proposed in the state-of-the-art object detection network YOLOv8, is introduced to further optimize the network by paralleling more gradient flow branches to obtain richer gradient information. The experimental results show that the improved YOLOv5 network has achieved competitive results on RDD2020 dataset, with fewer parameters and lower computational complexity but with higher accuracy and faster inference speed.
Ten Years of Research on Fucoidan and Cancer: Focus on Its Antiangiogenic and Antimetastatic Effects
Authors: Turrini Eleonora , Maffei Francesca , Fimognari Carmela
Published: May 2023

Angiogenesis and metastasis represent two challenging targets to combat cancer development in the later stages of its progression. Numerous studies have indicated the important role of natural products in blocking tumor angiogenesis signaling pathways in several advanced tumors. In recent years, the marine polysaccharides fucoidans emerged as promising anticancer compounds showing potent antitumor activity in both in vitro and in vivo models of different types of cancers. The objective of this review is to focus on the antiangiogenic and antimetastatic activities of fucoidans with special emphasis on preclinical studies. Independently from their source, fucoidans inhibit several angiogenic regulators, primarily vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). A glance towards fucoidans’ ongoing clinical trials and pharmacokinetic profile is provided to present the main challenges that still need to be addressed for their bench-to-bedside translation.
Advanced Methods for Natural Products Discovery: Bioactivity Screening, Dereplication, Metabolomics Profiling, Genomic Sequencing, Databases and Informatic Tools, and Structure Elucidation
Authors: Gaudêncio Susana P. , Bayram Engin , Lukić Bilela Lada , Cueto Mercedes , Díaz-Marrero Ana R. , Haznedaroglu Berat Z. , Jimenez Carlos , Mandalakis Manolis , Pereira Florbela , Reyes Fernando , Tasdemir Deniz
Published: May 2023

Natural Products (NP) are essential for the discovery of novel drugs and products for numerous biotechnological applications. The NP discovery process is expensive and time-consuming, having as major hurdles dereplication (early identification of known compounds) and structure elucidation, particularly the determination of the absolute configuration of metabolites with stereogenic centers. This review comprehensively focuses on recent technological and instrumental advances, highlighting the development of methods that alleviate these obstacles, paving the way for accelerating NP discovery towards biotechnological applications. Herein, we emphasize the most innovative high-throughput tools and methods for advancing bioactivity screening, NP chemical analysis, dereplication, metabolite profiling, metabolomics, genome sequencing and/or genomics approaches, databases, bioinformatics, chemoinformatics, and three-dimensional NP structure elucidation.
Microbial Interactions between Marine Microalgae and Fungi: From Chemical Ecology to Biotechnological Possible Applications
Authors: Lauritano Chiara , Galasso Christian
Published: May 2023

Chemical interactions have been shown to regulate several marine life processes, including selection of food sources, defense, behavior, predation, and mate recognition. These chemical communication signals have effects not only at the individual scale, but also at population and community levels. This review focuses on chemical interactions between marine fungi and microalgae, summarizing studies on compounds synthetized when they are cultured together. In the current study, we also highlight possible biotechnological outcomes of the synthetized metabolites, mainly for human health applications. In addition, we discuss applications for bio-flocculation and bioremediation. Finally, we point out the necessity of further investigating microalgae-fungi chemical interactions because it is a field still less explored compared to microalga–bacteria communication and, considering the promising results obtained until now, it is worthy of further research for scientific advancement in both ecology and biotechnology fields.
Oxidative Cyclization at ortho-Position of Phenol: Improved Total Synthesis of 3-(Phenethylamino)demethyl(oxy)aaptamine
Authors: Nakatani Yuki , Kimura Risa , Kimata Tomoyo , Kotoku Naoyuki
Published: May 2023

A shorter synthesis of the demethyl(oxy)aaptamine skeleton was developed via oxidative intramolecular cyclization of 1-(2-azidoethyl)-6-methoxyisoquinolin-7-ol followed by dehydrogenation with a hypervalent iodine reagent. This is the first example of oxidative cyclization at the ortho-position of phenol that does not involve spiro-cyclization, resulting in the improved total synthesis of 3-(phenethylamino)demethyl(oxy)aaptamine, a potent anti-dormant mycobacterial agent.
Removal of the Basic and Diazo Dyes from Aqueous Solution by the Frustules of Halamphora cf. salinicola (Bacillariophyta)
Authors: Golubeva Aleksandra , Roychoudhury Piya , Dąbek Przemysław , Pryshchepa Oleksandra , Pomastowski Paweł , Pałczyńska Jagoda , Piszczek Piotr , Gloc Michał , Dobrucka Renata , Feliczak-Guzik Agnieszka , Nowak Izabela , Buszewski Bogusław , Witkowski Andrzej
Published: May 2023

Industrial wastes with hazardous dyes serve as a major source of water pollution, which is considered to have an enormous impact on public health. In this study, an eco-friendly adsorbent, the porous siliceous frustules extracted from the diatom species Halamphora cf. salinicola, grown under laboratory conditions, has been identified. The porous architecture and negative surface charge under a pH of 7, provided by the various functional groups via Si–O, N–H, and O–H on these surfaces, revealed by SEM, the N2 adsorption/desorption isotherm, Zeta-potential measurement, and ATR-FTIR, respectively, made the frustules an efficient mean of removal of the diazo and basic dyes from the aqueous solutions, 74.9%, 94.02%, and 99.81% against Congo Red (CR), Crystal Violet (CV), and Malachite Green (MG), respectively. The maximum adsorption capacities were calculated from isotherms, as follows: 13.04 mg g−1, 41.97 mg g−1, and 33.19 mg g−1 against CR, CV, and MG, respectively. Kinetic and isotherm models showed a higher correlation to Pore diffusion and Sips models for CR, and Pseudo-Second Order and Freundlich models for CV and MG. Therefore, the cleaned frustules of the thermal spring-originated diatom strain Halamphora cf. salinicola could be used as a novel adsorbent of a biological origin against anionic and basic dyes.
Reconstruction of High-Grade Trochlea Dysplasia in a Young Female with Recurrent Patella Dislocation: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Chih-Hsuan , Hsu Kuo-Yao , Cheng You-Hung , Yang Cheng-Pang , Sheu Huan , Chang Shih-Sheng , Chen Chao-Yu , Chiu Chih-Hao
Published: May 2023

The patellofemoral joint involves a combination of bony structures and soft tissues to maintain stability. Patella instability is a disabling condition, and the cause is multifactorial. The main risk factors include patella alta, trochlea dysplasia, excessive tibial tuberosity to trochlea grove (TT–TG) distance, and excessive lateral patella tilt. In this case report, we highlight the thinking process of diagnosis and method for selecting the optimal treatment in accordance with the guidelines by Dejour et al. when we are presented with a patient with patella instability. A 20-year-old Asian woman without underlying medical conditions, presented with recurrent (>3 episodes) right patella dislocation for 7 years. Investigations revealed a type D trochlea dysplasia, increased TT–TG distance, and excessive lateral tilt angle. She underwent trochlea sulcus deepening, sulcus lateralization and lateral facet elevation, lateral retinacular release, and medial quadriceps tendon–femoral ligament (MQTFL) reconstruction. Due to the complexity behind the anatomy and biomechanics of patella instability, an easy-to-follow treatment algorithm is essential for the treating surgeon to provide effective and efficient treatment. MQTFL reconstruction is recommended for recurrent patella dislocation due to satisfactory clinical and patient reported outcomes and a reduced risk of iatrogenic patella fracture. Controversies for surgical indication in lateral retinacular release, and whether the sulcus angle is an accurate parameter for diagnosis of trochlea dysplasia, remain, and further research is required.
Study on the Treatment of Refined Sugar Wastewater by Electrodialysis Coupled with Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket and Membrane Bioreactor
Authors: Xu Shichang , Zhao Han , Xie Lixin , Wang Keqiang , Zhang Wen
Published: May 2023

In this paper, refined sugar wastewater (RSW) is treated by electrodialysis (ED) coupled with an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) and membrane bioreactor (MBR). The salt in RSW was first removed by ED, and then the remaining organic components in RSW were degraded by a combined UASB and MBR system. In the batch operation of ED, the RSW was desalinated to a certain level (conductivity < 6 mS·cm−1) at different dilute to concentrated stream volume ratios (VD/VC). At the volume ratio of 5:1, the salt migration rate JR and COD migration rate JCOD were 283.9 g·h−1·m−2 and 13.84 g·h−1·m−2, respectively, and the separation factor α (defined as JCOD/JR) reached a minimum value of 0.0487. The ion exchange capacity (IEC) of ion exchange membranes (IEMs) after 5 months of usage showed a slight change from 2.3 mmol·g−1 to 1.8 mmol·g−1. After the ED treatment, the effluent from the tank of the dilute stream was introduced into the combined UASB-MBR system. In the stabilization stage, the average COD of UASB effluent was 2048 mg·L−1, and the effluent COD of MBR was maintained below 44–69 mg·L−1, which met the discharge standard of water contaminants for the sugar industry. The coupled method reported here provides a viable idea and an effective reference for treating RSW and other similar industrial wastewaters with high salinity and organic contents.
Research Progress on New Types of H2TiO3 Lithium-Ion Sieves: A Review
Authors: Li Ying , Yang Zhen , Ma Peihua
Published: May 2023

The advantages of new types of H2TiO3 lithium-ion sieves, including excellent adsorption performance, high-efficiency Li+-ion selectivity, reliable regeneration, environmental friendliness, and easy preparation, have attracted considerable attention. Currently, the prices of lithium carbonate and other related products are rapidly increasing, so the use of H2TiO3 lithium-ion sieves to extract lithium resources in salt lake brine has become a crucial strategy. H2TiO3 lithium-ion sieve is a layered double hydroxide with a 3R1 sequence to arrange oxygen layers. Its adsorption mechanism involves the breaking of surface O-H bonds and the formation of O-Li bonds. This study provides a theoretical basis for developing high-efficiency lithium-ion sieves. This article also summarizes the influencing factors for the synthesis process of H2TiO3, which can seriously influence the adsorption performance, and offers experimental verification for the preparation of H2TiO3 lithium-ion sieves. H2TiO3 lithium-ion sieves prepared from anatase using a reasonable method show the largest adsorption capacity. In addition, effective ways to recycle H2TiO3 are outlined, which provide a guarantee for its industrial application. Finally, this paper summarizes the full text and points out future research directions for H2TiO3 lithium-ion sieves.
Corrosion of Copper in a Tropical Marine Atmosphere Rich in H2S Resulting from the Decomposition of Sargassum Algae
Authors: Ahmed Mahado Said , Lebrini Mounim , Lescop Benoit , Pellé Julien , Rioual Stéphane , Amintas Olivia , Boullanger Carole , Roos Christophe
Published: May 2023

The atmospheric corrosion of copper exposed in Martinique (Caribbean Sea) for 1 year was reported. This island suffered the stranding of sargassum algae, which decompose and release toxic gases such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S) or ammonia (NH3). Four sites in Martinique (France) more or less impacted by sargassum algae strandings were selected. The corrosion rate was studied via mass loss determination. The morphology and properties of the corrosion products were determined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The samples were exposed for up to 12 months. The mass loss results after 1-year exposure were from 4.8 µm for the least impacted site to 325 µm for the site most affected by sargassum algae. This very high value proves that the presence of sargassum algae caused a significant degradation of copper. The morphological structures and properties of the corrosion products obtained at the impacted and non-impacted sites differed significantly. In the absence of sargassum algae, classical corrosion products of copper were reported such as Cu2O and Cu2Cl(OH)3. In the sites near the stranding of the sargassum algae, the CuS product is the main corrosion product obtained, but copper hydroxylsulfate is created.
Effects of L-PBF Scanning Strategy and Sloping Angle on the Process Properties of TC11 Titanium Alloy
Authors: Lu Xuben , Shu Chang , Zheng Zhiyu , Shu Xuedao , Chen Siyuan , Essa Khamis , Li Zixuan , Xu Haijie
Published: May 2023

TC11 titanium alloy is widely used in aerospace. To investigate the production of TC11 titanium alloy parts of high quality and performance, this paper adopts the Laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) technique to prepare TC11 alloy specimens. We analyze in detail the effects of scanning strategy and forming angle on the forming quality and performance of TC11 alloy through a combination of theory and experiment. The results show that the upper surface quality of the strip-scanned molded parts is the highest, and the upper surface quality is better than that of the side surface under different scanning strategies. The fusion channel lap and surface adhesion powder were the main factors affecting the surface roughness. With increases in the forming angle, the surface roughness of the overhanging surface gradually decreases and the hardness gradually increases. The surface quality and hardness of the specimen are optimal when the forming angle is 90°. The research results provide the theoretical basis and technical support for L-PBF forming of TC11 titanium alloy parts.
Multi-Physical Field Coupling Simulation and Experiments with Pulse Electrochemical Machining of Large Size TiAl Intermetallic Blade
Authors: Wang Yudi , Xu Zhengyang , Meng Deman , Liu Lin , Fang Zhongdong
Published: May 2023

Large size TiAl alloy blade is one of the important parts to reduce the weight of advanced aero-engines. However, the precision manufacturing of such blades is a challenge due to their large size, low ductility at room temperature, and high hardness of the TiAl alloy. Electrochemical machining (ECM) is a very promising method for the precision manufacturing of such blades, considering its unique advantages. In this study, a very comprehensive multi-physical field coupling simulation and pulse ECM experiments on large size TiAl alloy blades are carried out. Geometric and theoretical models involving electric fields, gas-liquid two-phase flow, heat transfer, and anodic dissolution are developed. The variation of bubble, temperature, electrolyte flow rate, and electrical conductivity at the outlet and the different areas on the blade surface with the processing time and distribution along the flow channel in the machining gap are revealed by simulation. It is found that the influence of electrolyte temperature on electrical conductivity is more dominant than that of bubble concentration. Finally, the experiments of pulse ECM on large size TiAl alloy blade are carried out, and the experimental results are analyzed in detail. The high efficiency and high surface quality of large size TiAl alloy blades are realized. The surface roughness and machining accuracy of the blade are about Ra 0.9 μm and 0.18 mm, respectively.
Offline Feed-Rate Scheduling Method for Ti–Al Alloy Blade Finishing Based on a Local Stiffness Estimation Model
Authors: Wu Long , Wang Aimin , Xing Wenhao
Published: May 2023

In the aerospace field, Ti–Al alloy thin-walled parts, such as blades, generally undergo a large amount of material removal and have a low processing efficiency. Scheduling the feed rate during machining can significantly improve machining efficiency. However, existing feed-rate scheduling methods rarely consider the influence of machining deformation factors and cannot be applied in the finishing stages of thin-walled parts. This study proposes an offline feed-rate scheduling method based on a local stiffness estimation model that can be used to reduce machining errors and improve efficiency in the finishing stage of thin-walled parts. In the proposed method, a predictive model that can rapidly calculate the local stiffness at each cutter location point and a cutting-force prediction model that considers the effect of cutting angle are established. Based on the above model, an offline feed-rate scheduling method that considers machining deformation error constraints is introduced. Finally, an experiment is performed by taking the finishing of actual blade parts as an example. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed feed-rate scheduling method can improve the machining efficiency of parts while ensuring machining accuracy. The proposed method can also be conveniently applied to feed-rate scheduling in the finishing stage of other thin-walled parts without being limited by machine tools.
Enhancement of Ambient Mass Spectrometry Imaging Data by Image Restoration
Authors: Xiang Yuchen , Metodiev Martin , Wang Meiqi , Cao Boxuan , Bunch Josephine , Takats Zoltan
Published: May 2023

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has been a key driver of groundbreaking discoveries in a number of fields since its inception more than 50 years ago. Recently, MSI development trends have shifted towards ambient MSI (AMSI) as the removal of sample-preparation steps and the possibility of analysing biological specimens in their natural state have drawn the attention of multiple groups across the world. Nevertheless, the lack of spatial resolution has been cited as one of the main limitations of AMSI. While significant research effort has presented hardware solutions for improving the resolution, software solutions are often overlooked, although they can usually be applied in a cost-effective manner after image acquisition. In this vein, we present two computational methods that we have developed to directly enhance the image resolution post-acquisition. Robust and quantitative resolution improvement is demonstrated for 12 cases of openly accessible datasets across laboratories around the globe. Using the same universally applicable Fourier imaging model, we discuss the possibility of true super-resolution by software for future studies.
Clofazimine-Mediated, Age-Related Changes in Skeletal Muscle Mitochondrial Metabolites
Authors: Diaz-Espinosa Jennifer , Stringer Kathleen A. , Rosania Gus R.
Published: May 2023

Mitochondrial health declines with age, and older patients can demonstrate dysfunction in mitochondrial-rich tissues, such as cardiac and skeletal muscle. Aged mitochondria may make older adults more susceptible to adverse drug reactions (ADRs). We assessed mitochondrial metabolic function by measuring two metabolites, l-carnitine and acetylcarnitine, to determine their effectiveness as candidate clinical biomarkers for age-related, drug-induced alterations in mitochondrial metabolism. To study age- and medication-related changes in mitochondrial metabolism, we administered the FDA-approved mitochondriotropic drug, clofazimine (CFZ), or vehicle for 8 weeks to young (4-week-old) and old (61-week-old) male C57BL/6J mice. At the end of treatment, whole blood and cardiac and skeletal muscle were analyzed for l-carnitine, acetylcarnitine, and CFZ levels; muscle function was measured via a treadmill test. No differences were found in blood or cardiac carnitine levels of CFZ-treated mice, but CFZ-treated mice displayed lost body mass and alterations in endurance and levels of skeletal muscle mitochondrial metabolites. These findings demonstrate the age-related susceptibility of the skeletal muscle to mitochondria drug toxicity. Since drug-induced alterations in mitochondrial metabolism in skeletal muscle were not reflected in the blood by l-carnitine or acetylcarnitine levels, drug-induced catabolism and changes in muscle function appear more relevant to stratifying individuals at increased risk for ADRs.
Changes in the Carbohydrate Profile in Common Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) Seedlings Induced by Cold Stress and Dehydration
Authors: Lahuta Lesław B. , Górecki Ryszard J. , Szablińska-Piernik Joanna , Horbowicz Marcin
Published: May 2023

Plant species are sensitive to stresses, especially at the seedling stage, and they respond to these conditions by making metabolic changes to counteract the negative effects of this. The objectives of this study were to determine carbohydrate profile in particular organs (roots, hypocotyl, and cotyledons) of common buckwheat seedlings and to verify whether carbohydrate accumulation is similar or not in the organs in response to cold stress and dehydration. Roots, hypocotyl, and cotyledons of common buckwheat seedlings have various saccharide compositions. The highest concentrations of cyclitols, raffinose, and stachyose were found in the hypocotyl, indicating that they may be transported from cotyledons, although this needs further studies. Accumulation of raffinose and stachyose is a strong indicator of the response of all buckwheat organs to introduced cold stress. Besides, cold conditions reduced d-chiro-inositol content, but did not affect d-pinitol level. Enhanced accumulation of raffinose and stachyose were also a distinct response of all organs against dehydration at ambient temperature. The process causes also a large decrease in the content of d-pinitol in buckwheat hypocotyl, which may indicate its transformation to d-chiro-inositol whose content increased at that time. In general, the sucrose and its galactosides in hypocotyl tissues were subject to the highest changes to the applied cold and dehydration conditions compared to the cotyledons and roots. This may indicate tissue differences in the functioning of the protective system(s) against such threats.
Mixing Performance of a Passive Micromixer Based on Multiple Baffles and Submergence Scheme
Authors: Juraeva Makhsuda , Kang Dong-Jin
Published: May 2023

A novel passive micromixer based on multiple baffles and a submergence scheme was designed, and its mixing performance was simulated over a wide range of Reynolds numbers ranging from 0.1 to 80. The degree of mixing (DOM) at the outlet and the pressure drop between the inlets and outlet were used to assess the mixing performance of the present micromixer. The mixing performance of the present micromixer showed a significant enhancement over a wide range of Reynolds numbers (0.1 ≤ Re ≤ 80). The DOM was further enhanced by using a specific submergence scheme. At low Reynolds numbers (Re < 5), submergence scheme Sub24 produced the highest DOM, approximately 0.57, which was 1.38 times higher than the case with no submergence. This enhancement was due to the fluid flowing from or toward the submerged space, creating strong upward or downward flow at the cross-section. At high Reynolds numbers (Re > 10), the DOM of Sub1234 became the highest, reaching approximately 0.93 for Re = 20, which was 2.75 times higher than the case with no submergence. This enhancement was caused by a large vortex formed across the whole cross-section, causing vigorous mixing between the two fluids. The large vortex dragged the interface between the two fluids along the vortex perimeter, elongating the interface. The amount of submergence was optimized in terms of DOM, and it was independent of the number of mixing units. The optimum submergence values were 90 μm for Sub24 and Re = 1, 100 μm for Sub234 and Re = 5, and 70 μm for Sub1234 and Re = 20.
Viability of Probiotic Microorganisms and the Effect of Their Addition to Fruit and Vegetable Juices
Authors: Maia Maria Spinasse , Domingos Manueli Monciozo , de São José Jackline Freitas Brilhante
Published: May 2023

Consumers’ recent interest in healthier diets has increased the demand for food products with functional properties, such as probiotics. However, most probiotic food types available on the market are of dairy origin, which limits their consumption by individuals with food intolerances and by those who adhere to strict vegan and vegetarian diets. The aim of the current review is to assess both the limitations and impacts of the addition of probiotic microorganisms to fruit, vegetable, and/or mixed juices. Thus, an integrative literature review was herein carried out. A bibliographic survey was carried out in the following databases: Lilacs, Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Scielo. In addition, searches for studies published in English from 2010 to 2021 were carried out, based on the following meshes: “fruit”, ‘‘vegetable”, ‘‘juice”, and “probiotics”, which were used both in combination with each other and with Boolean operators such as “AND” and “OR”. Although 254 articles were initially found in the literature search, only 21 of them were selected to compose the final sample. The included studies mainly addressed microorganism viability and physicochemical analyses. Overall, fruit and/or vegetable juices can be suitable matrices used to help the development of probiotic food types. However, the microorganisms added to these products must be capable of adapting to and surviving in them to enable a product’s success. Therefore, factors such as pH, fiber content, amino acids, and phenolic compounds play an essential role in the survival of probiotic microorganisms. Given the wide variety of analyses, a comparison between parameters was the major limitation of the present study. Future studies should focus on filling the gaps persisting in the development of probiotic fruit and/or vegetable juices as well as mixed juices.
Importance of Pre-Milking Udder Hygiene to Reduce Transfer of Clostridial Spores from Teat Skin to Raw Milk
Authors: Burtscher Johanna , Rudavsky Tamara , Zitz Ulrike , Neubauer Viktoria , Domig Konrad J.
Published: May 2023

Butyric acid producing clostridia (BAPC) cause the so-called late-blowing defect, a serious quality problem in semi-hard and hard cheeses. Late-blown cheeses are characterized by undesired slits and cracks, irregular eyes, and off-flavors due to excessive amounts of gas and organic acids produced by clostridia. Clostridial transfer to raw milk can occur during milking through dirty teats. Therefore, teat cleaning before milking is a key factor in preventing clostridial contamination of the milk. However, different cleaning methods are used, and little information is available on the efficacy of routine teat cleaning in reducing clostridial endospores. The main objectives of this study were to assess the extent of udder contamination with BAPC spores and to investigate the efficacy of routine teat cleaning on BAPC spore counts in milk. In a longitudinal study, eight dairy farms were visited during five sampling events. Clostridial spore counts were quantified from teat skin before and after routine teat cleaning, in pooled quarter milk samples from individual cows, and in bulk tank milk samples using a most probable number method. In addition, farm management data were collected periodically through a survey, and average cow cleanliness was assessed by a veterinarian. On average, teat cleaning resulted in a 0.6 log unit reduction in BAPC spores on teat skin, and a strong positive correlation was found between BAPC spore concentrations on teat skin after cleaning and in pooled quarter milk samples. Seasonal variations and the potential influence of differences in farm management were also noted. Interestingly, average cow cleanliness correlated strongly with BAPC spore levels in milk, suggesting the potential for a quick and rough estimation method of clostridial contamination that could be implemented by farmers.
Study the Mechanical Properties of Geopolymer under Different Curing Conditions
Authors: Liu Jinliang , Shi Xiaohui , Zhang Guanhua , Li Linfei
Published: May 2023

The geopolymer is an environmentally friendly and high-performance material. Nowadays, how to improve the degree of the geopolymer’s reaction and enhance its mechanical properties has become a hot topic. This study used orthogonal tests to design the precursor mixing ratio, considering GGBS content (A), water/binder ratio (B), and alkaline activator modulus (C). The fly ash (FA) ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS)-based geopolymers were cured under two standard curing conditions: 40 °C under water and 40 °C in the oven. Then, the influence of these factors on the mechanical properties of geopolymers under different curing conditions was summarized. The contribution of each factor was ranked, which was used to find out the most sensitive factors affecting the mechanical properties. Taking the 7 days and 28 days of compressive strength and flexural strength of the geopolymer specimens as the evaluation criteria, the optimum ratio method for preparing geopolymers was obtained. Then, the prediction model of compressive strength under different curing conditions was established. SEM and XRD were used to analyze the microstructure and hydration products of the samples. The test results showed that the optimum ratio of FA-based geopolymers varied under different curing conditions. The GGBS content was the key factor in determining the mechanical properties. The heat curing condition was the best curing condition, the 28-day compressive strength could reach 76.3 MPa, and the 28-day flexural strength could reach 7.4 MPa. The prediction models established for compressive strength under different curing conditions had high accuracy. The specimens under the best curing conditions exhibited a dense internal microstructure and the presence of C-S-H gels, C-A-S-H gels, and N-A-S-H gels.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Heavy Metals in Marine and Lake Sediments”
Authors: Demina Liudmila L.
Published: May 2023

In recent decades, due to global warming and the continuing exploration in the search for mineral resources, the scientific attention paid to contamination problems has increased noticeably [...]
Exploratory Mapping of the Geothermal Anomalies in the Neoproterozoic Arabian Shield, Saudi Arabia, Using Magnetic Data
Authors: Abdelrahman Kamal , Ekwok Stephen E. , Ulem Christian A. , Eldosouky Ahmed M. , Al-Otaibi Naif , Hazaea Bashar Y. , Hazaea Saddam Ali , Andráš Peter , Akpan Anthony E.
Published: May 2023

In this paper, certain areas of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) are assessed in order to map potential geothermal energy zones. To evaluate high-resolution aerial magnetic data, spectral depth analysis using a modified centroid approach was used. The calculated geothermal parameters were gridded in order to delineate the regions characterised by a shallow Curie point depth (CPD) and a high geothermal gradient (GG) as well as a high heat flow (HF). The CPD, GG and HF calculated from the analysed data varied in the ranges of 6.0–15.0 km, 40.0–100.0 °C/km and 90.0–270.0 mW/m2, respectively. The obtained results show the concurrence of the positions of shallow CPD (<8.0 km), high GG (>83.5 °C/km) and high HF (>211.0 mW/m2). The geothermal systems that are oriented in the E–W direction are related to the Red Sea tectonics, the tectonic opening of the Red Sea/Gulf of the Suez Rift, hot subterranean anomalies and high enthalpy from radioactive granites. Likewise, the geologic structures (fractures and faults) related to the Red Sea tectonics serve as channels for the movement of hydrothermal fluids and the deposition of associated minerals. All in all, another geophysical study involving deep boreholes, and seismic, magnetotelluric, electromagnetic and geochemical data should be conducted to evaluate and estimate precisely the economic reserves of geothermal resources.
Biogeochemical Controls on Methane Generation: A Review on Indian Coal Resources
Authors: Adsul Tushar , Ghosh Santanu , Kumar Susheel , Tiwari Balram , Dutta Subir , Varma Atul Kumar
Published: May 2023

Coal bed methane (CBM) extraction has astounding effects on the global energy budget. Since the earliest discoveries of CBM, this natural gas form has witnessed ever-increasing demands from the core sectors of the economy. CBM is an unconventional source of energy occurring naturally within coal beds. The multiphase CBM generation during coal evolution commences with microbial diagenesis of the sedimentary organic matter during peatification, followed by early to mature thermogenic kerogen decomposition and post-coalification occurrences. Indeed, the origin of the CBM and, moreover, its economically valuable retention within coal seams is a function of various parameters. Several noticeable knowledge gaps include the controls of coal make-up and its physico-chemical position on the CBM generation and genetic link through fossil molecular and stable isotopic integration with the parent coal during its evolution. Therefore, this manuscript reviews the origin of CBM; the influences of coal properties and micropetrographic entities on CBM generation and storage; and its genetic molecular and stable isotope compositions in India and the world’s major coal reservoirs. Moreover, analyses of and outlooks on future development trends in the exploration, production, and application of coalbed methane are also addressed. Finally, as India has the fifth largest proven coal reserves, this brief review of the recent CBM discoveries and developments provides a plausible scope for microbially enhanced CBM production from these basins.
Xanthophyll-Rich Extract of Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin as New Photoprotective Cosmeceutical Agent: Safety and Efficacy Assessment on In Vitro Reconstructed Human Epidermis Model
Authors: Smeriglio Antonella , Lionti Joseph , Ingegneri Mariarosaria , Burlando Bruno , Cornara Laura , Grillo Federica , Mastracci Luca , Trombetta Domenico
Published: May 2023

The nutritional and health properties of algae make them perfect functional ingredients for nutraceutical and cosmeceutical applications. In this study, the Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin (Phaeodactylaceae), a pleiomorphic diatom commonly found in marine ecosystems, was investigated. The in vitro culture conditions used favoured the fusiform morphotype, characterized by a high accumulation of neutral lipids, as detected by fluorescence microscopy after BODIPY staining. These data were confirmed by HPLC-DAD-APCI-MS/MS analyses carried out on the ethanolic extract (PTE), which showed a high content of xanthophylls (98.99%), and in particular of fucoxanthin (Fx, 6.67 g/100 g PTE). The antioxidant activity (ORAC, FRAP, TEAC and β-carotene bleaching) and photostability of PTE and Fx against UVA and UVB rays were firstly evaluated by in vitro cell-free assays. After this, phototoxicity and photoprotective studies were carried out on in vitro reconstructed human epidermidis models. Results demonstrated that PTE (0.1% Fx) and 0.1% Fx, both photostable, significantly (p < 0.05) reduce oxidative and inflammatory stress markers (ROS, NO and IL-1α), as well as cytotoxicity and sunburn cells induced by UVA and UVB doses simulating the solar radiation, with an excellent safety profile. However, PTE proved to be more effective than Fx, suggesting its effective and safe use in broad-spectrum sunscreens.
The Reducing Agents in Sonochemical Reactions without Any Additives
Authors: Yasui Kyuichi
Published: May 2023

It has been experimentally reported that not only oxidation reactions but also reduction reactions occur in aqueous solutions under ultrasound without any additives. According to the numerical simulations of chemical reactions inside an air or argon bubble in water without any additives under ultrasound, reducing agents produced from the bubbles are H, H2, HO2 (which becomes superoxide anion (O2−) in liquid water), NO, and HNO2 (which becomes NO2− in liquid water). In addition, H2O2 sometimes works as a reducing agent. As the reduction potentials of H and H2 (in strongly alkaline solutions for H2) are higher than those of RCHOH radicals, which are usually used to reduce metal ions, H and H2 generated from cavitation bubbles are expected to reduce metal ions to produce metal nanoparticles (in strongly alkaline solutions for H2 to work). It is possible that the superoxide anion (O2−) also plays some role in the sonochemical reduction of some solutes. In strongly alkaline solutions, hydrated electrons (e−aq) formed from H atoms in liquid water may play an important role in the sonochemical reduction of solutes because the reduction potential is extremely high. The influence of ultrasonic frequency on the amount of H atoms produced from a cavitation bubble is also discussed.
Trisubstituted 1,3,5-Triazines as Histamine H4 Receptor Antagonists with Promising Activity In Vivo
Authors: Olejarz-Maciej Agnieszka , Mogilski Szczepan , Karcz Tadeusz , Werner Tobias , Kamińska Katarzyna , Kupczyk Jarosław , Honkisz-Orzechowska Ewelina , Latacz Gniewomir , Stark Holger , Kieć-Kononowicz Katarzyna , Łażewska Dorota
Published: May 2023

Pain is a very unpleasant experience that makes life extremely uncomfortable. The histamine H4 receptor (H4R) is a promising target for the treatment of inflammatory and immune diseases, as well as pain. H4R ligands have demonstrated analgesic effects in a variety of pain models, including inflammatory pain. Continuing the search for active H4R ligands among the alkyl derivatives of 1,3,5-triazine, we obtained 19 new compounds in two series: acyclic (I) and aliphatic (II). In vitro pharmacological evaluation showed their variable affinity for H4R. The majority of compounds showed a moderate affinity for this receptor (Ki > 100 nM), while all compounds tested in ß-arrestin and cAMP assays showed antagonistic activity. The most promising, compound 6, (4-(cyclopentylmethyl)-6-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)-1,3,5-triazin-2-amine; Ki = 63 nM) was selected for further in vitro evaluation: blood-brain barrier permeability (PAMPA assay; Pe = 12.26 × 10−6 cm/s) and toxicity tests (HepG2 and SH-5YSY cells; no toxicity up to 50 µM). Next, compound 6 tested in vivo in a carrageenan-induced inflammatory pain model showed anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects (strongest at 50 mg/kg i.p.). Furthermore, in a histamine- and chloroquine-induced pruritus model, compound 6 at a dose of 25 mg/kg i.p. and 50 mg/kg i.p., respectively, reduced the number of scratch bouts. Thus, compound 6 is a promising ligand for further studies.
Surface Vertical Multi-Emission Laser with Distributed Bragg Reflector Feedback from CsPbI3 Quantum Dots
Authors: Su Xueqiong , Pan Yong , Gao Dongwen , Wang Jin , Yu Huimin , Chen Ruixiang , Guan Baolu , Yang Xinyu , Wang Yimeng , Wang Li
Published: May 2023

Quantum dots (QDs) laser has become an important way to solve micro-application problems in many fields. However, single wavelength distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) has many limitations in practical applications, such as signal transmission. How to realize multiwavelength DBR lasing output simply is a challenge. To achieve a stable multi-wavelength quantum dots laser in the near-infrared region, the perovskite CsPbI3 QDs laser with DBR structure is developed in this paper. A tetragonal crystal structure with complete bonding information and no defect is explained by X-ray diffractions (XRD) and Raman spectrum. The cross-section morphology of the DBR laser and the surface morphology of QDs is measured by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM), respectively. An elliptical light propagation field and a double wavelength laser radiation are obtained from the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation. The output of the three wavelength lasers at 770 nm, 823 nm, and 873 nm is measured. The emission time of a DBR laser is about 2 h, and the average fluorescence quantum yield is 60%. The cavity length selection and energy level model are put in place to clearly see the working mechanism. All the results suggest that an effective and stable CsPbI3 quantum dots DBR laser is realized.
Optimization of Magnetic Cobalt Ferrite Nanoparticles for Magnetic Heating Applications in Biomedical Technology
Authors: Zahn Diana , Landers Joachim , Diegel Marco , Salamon Soma , Stihl Andreas , Schacher Felix H. , Wende Heiko , Dellith Jan , Dutz Silvio
Published: May 2023

Using magnetic nanoparticles for extracorporeal magnetic heating applications in bio-medical technology allows higher external field amplitudes and thereby the utilization of particles with higher coercivities (HC). In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of high coercivity cobalt ferrite nanoparticles following a wet co-precipitation method. Particles are characterized with magnetometry, X-ray diffraction, Mössbauer spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and calorimetric measurements for the determination of their specific absorption rate (SAR). In the first series, CoxFe3−xO4 particles were synthesized with x = 1 and a structured variation of synthesis conditions, including those of the used atmosphere (O2 or N2). In the second series, particles with x = 0 to 1 were synthesized to study the influence of the cobalt fraction on the resulting magnetic and structural properties. Crystallite sizes of the resulting particles ranged between 10 and 18 nm, while maximum coercivities at room temperatures of 60 kA/m for synthesis with O2 and 37 kA/m for N2 were reached. Magnetization values at room temperature and 2 T (MRT,2T) up to 60 Am2/kg under N2 for x = 1 can be achieved. Synthesis parameters that lead to the formation of an additional phase when they exceed specific thresholds have been identified. Based on XRD findings, the direct correlation between high-field magnetization, the fraction of this antiferromagnetic byphase and the estimated transition temperature of this byphase, extracted from the Mössbauer spectroscopy series, we were able to attribute this contribution to akageneite. When varying the cobalt fraction x, a non-monotonous correlation of HC and x was found, with a linear increase of HC up to x = 0.8 and a decrease for x > 0.8, while magnetometry and in-field Mössbauer experiments demonstrated a moderate degree of spin canting for all x, yielding high magnetization. SAR values up to 480 W/g (@290 kHz, 69 mT) were measured for immobilized particles with x = 0.3, whit the external field amplitude being the limiting factor due to the high coercivities of our particles.