bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Anti-Alzheimer’s Disease Activity of Selected Plant Ingredients
Authors: Tuzimski Tomasz , Petruczynik Anna
Published: May 2022

Neurodegenerative diseases, among which one of the more common is Alzheimer’s disease, are the one of the biggest global public health challenges facing our generation because of the increasing elderly population in most countries. With the growing burden of these diseases, it is essential to discover and develop new treatment options capable of preventing and treating them. Neurodegenerative diseases, among which one of the most common is Alzheimer’s disease, are a multifactorial disease and therefore demand multiple therapeutic approaches. One of the most important therapeutic strategies is controlling the level of acetylcholine—a neurotransmitter in cholinergic synapses—by blocking the degradation of acetylcholine using acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as tacrine, galantamine, donepezil and rivastigmine. However, these drugs can cause some adverse side effects, such as hepatotoxicity and gastrointestinal disorder. Thus, the search for new, more effective drugs is very important. In the last few years, different active constituents from plants have been tested as potential drugs in neurodegenerative disease therapy. The availability, lower price and less toxic effects of herbal medicines compared with synthetic agents make them a simple and excellent choice in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. The empirical approach to discovering new drugs from the systematic screening of plant extracts or plant-derived compounds is still an important strategy when it comes to finding new biologically active substances. The aim of this review is to identify new, safe and effective compounds that are potential candidates for further in vivo and clinical tests from which more effective drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease could be selected. We reviewed the methods used to determine anti-Alzheimer’s disease activity. Here, we have discussed the relevance of plant-derived compounds with in vitro activity. Various plants and phytochemical compounds have shown different activity that could be beneficial in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disorders. Most often, medicinal plants and their active components have been investigated as acetylcholinesterase and/or butyrylcholinesterase activity inhibitors, modifiers of β-amyloid processing and antioxidant agents. This study also aims to highlight species with assessed efficacy, usable plant parts and the most active plant components in order to identify species and compounds of interest for further study. Future research directions are suggested and recommendations made to expand the use of medicinal plants, their formulations and plant-derived active compounds to prevent, mitigate and treat Alzheimer’s disease.
Synthesis of Mixed Dinucleotides by Mechanochemistry
Authors: Hayat Faisal , Makarov Mikhail V. , Belfleur Luxene , Migaud Marie E.
Published: May 2022

We report the synthesis of vitamin B1, B2, and B3 derived nucleotides and dinucleotides generated either through mechanochemical or solution phase chemistry. Under the explored conditions, adenosine and thiamine proved to be particularly amenable to milling conditions. Following optimization of the chemistry related to the formation pyrophosphate bonds, mixed dinucleotides of adenine and thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), nicotinamide riboside and 3-carboxamide 4-pyridone riboside (both vitamin B3 derivatives) were generated in good yields. Furthermore, we report an efficient synthesis of the MW+4 isotopologue of NAD+ for which deuterium incorporation is present on either side of the dinucleotidic linkage, poised for isotopic tracing experiments by mass spectrometry. Many of these mixed species are novel and present unexplored possibilities to simultaneously enhance or modulate cofactor transporters and enzymes of independent biosynthetic pathways.
Biodiesel Production from Alkali-Catalyzed Transesterification of Tamarindus indica Seed Oil and Optimization of Process Conditions
Authors: Sajjad Noreen , Orfali Raha , Perveen Shagufta , Rehman Sabiha , Sultan Aeysha , Akhtar Taslim , Nazir Arif , Muhammad Gulzar , Mehmood Tahir , Ghaffar Safina , Al-Taweel Areej , Jilani Muhammad I. , Iqbal Munawar
Published: May 2022

Biodiesel is considered a sustainable alternative to petro-diesel owing to several favorable characteristics. However, higher production costs, primarily due to the use of costly edible oils as raw materials, are a chief impediment to its pecuniary feasibility. Exploring non-edible oils as raw material for biodiesel is an attractive strategy that would address the economic constraints associated with biodiesel production. This research aims to optimize the reaction conditions for the production of biodiesel through an alkali-catalyzed transesterification of Tamarindus indica seed oil. The Taguchi method was applied to optimize performance parameters such as alcohol-to-oil molar ratio, catalyst amount, and reaction time. The fatty acid content of both oil and biodiesel was determined using gas chromatography. The optimized conditions of alcohol-to-oil molar ratio (6:1), catalyst (1.5% w/w), and reaction time 1 h afforded biodiesel with 93.5% yield. The most considerable contribution came from the molar ratio of alcohol to oil (75.9%) followed by the amount of catalyst (20.7%). In another case, alcohol to oil molar ratio (9:1), catalyst (1.5% w/w) and reaction time 1.5 h afforded biodiesel 82.5% yield. The fuel properties of Tamarindus indica methyl esters produced under ideal conditions were within ASTM D6751 biodiesel specified limits. Findings of the study indicate that Tamarindus indica may be chosen as a prospective and viable option for large-scale production of biodiesel, making it a substitute for petro-diesel.
Application of Dendrimers in Anticancer Diagnostics and Therapy
Authors: Bober Zuzanna , Bartusik-Aebisher Dorota , Aebisher David
Published: May 2022

The application of dendrimeric constructs in medical diagnostics and therapeutics is increasing. Dendrimers have attracted attention due to their compact, spherical three-dimensional structures with surfaces that can be modified by the attachment of various drugs, hydrophilic or hydrophobic groups, or reporter molecules. In the literature, many modified dendrimer systems with various applications have been reported, including drug and gene delivery systems, biosensors, bioimaging contrast agents, tissue engineering, and therapeutic agents. Dendrimers are used for the delivery of macromolecules, miRNAs, siRNAs, and many other various biomedical applications, and they are ideal carriers for bioactive molecules. In addition, the conjugation of dendrimers with antibodies, proteins, and peptides allows for the design of vaccines with highly specific and predictable properties, and the role of dendrimers as carrier systems for vaccine antigens is increasing. In this work, we will focus on a review of the use of dendrimers in cancer diagnostics and therapy. Dendrimer-based nanosystems for drug delivery are commonly based on polyamidoamine dendrimers (PAMAM) that can be modified with drugs and contrast agents. Moreover, dendrimers can be successfully used as conjugates that deliver several substances simultaneously. The potential to develop dendrimers with multifunctional abilities has served as an impetus for the design of new molecular platforms for medical diagnostics and therapeutics.
Preparation and Characterization of Controlled-Release Floating Bilayer Tablets of Esomeprazole and Clarithromycin
Authors: Israr Muhammad , Pugliese Nicola , Farid Arshad , Ghazanfar Shakira , Di Cerbo Alessandro , Muzammal Muhammad , Alamri Abdulhakeem S. , Basheeruddin Asdaq Syed Mohammed , Ahmad Ashfaq , Khan Kamran Ahmad
Published: May 2022

Controlled-release effervescent floating bilayer tablets reduce dosage frequency and improve patient compliance with enhanced therapeutic outcomes. Generally, two different tablets of clarithromycin and esomeprazole, respectively, are given for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection and it might be worth incorporating both in a single tablet. In the current study, controlled-release floating bilayer tablets of clarithromycin and esomeprazole (F1–F4) were developed with different rates of polymeric materials by a direct compression method. During the formulation, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was performed for possible interactions between drugs and excipients. No interactions between drugs and excipients were noted. Moreover, the bilayer tablets’ thickness, diameter, friability, hardness, weight variation, dissolution, and percent purity were found within the acceptable limits. The floating lag time and total floating time of all formulations were found to be < 25 s and 24 h, respectively. The release of both the clarithromycin and esomeprazole started at the same time from the controlled-release floating bilayer tablets by anomalous non-Fickian diffusion, and the polymeric materials extended the drug release rate up to 24 h. In the case of F1, the results approached ideal zero-order kinetics. The dissolution profiles of the tested and reference tablet formulations were compared, but no significant differences were observed. It can be concluded that such controlled-release effervescent floating bilayer tablets can be efficiently used in clinical practice to reduce dosage frequency and increase patient compliance with continuous drug release for 24 h, which ultimately might enhance therapeutic efficacy.
Phase Separation in Ge-Rich GeSbTe at Different Length Scales: Melt-Quenched Bulk versus Annealed Thin Films
Authors: Yimam Daniel Tadesse , Van Der Ree A. J. T. , Abou El Kheir Omar , Momand Jamo , Ahmadi Majid , Palasantzas George , Bernasconi Marco , Kooi Bart J.
Published: May 2022

Integration of the prototypical GeSbTe (GST) ternary alloys, especially on the GeTe-Sb2Te3 tie-line, into non-volatile memory and nanophotonic devices is a relatively mature field of study. Nevertheless, the search for the next best active material with outstanding properties is still ongoing. This search is relatively crucial for embedded memory applications where the crystallization temperature of the active material has to be higher to surpass the soldering threshold. Increasing the Ge content in the GST alloys seems promising due to the associated higher crystallization temperatures. However, homogeneous Ge-rich GST in the as-deposited condition is thermodynamically unstable, and phase separation upon annealing is unavoidable. This phase separation reduces endurance and is detrimental in fully integrating the alloys into active memory devices. This work investigated the phase separation of Ge-rich GST alloys, specifically Ge5Sb2Te3 or GST523, into multiple (meta)stable phases at different length scales in melt-quenched bulk and annealed thin film. Electron microscopy-based techniques were used in our work for chemical mapping and elemental composition analysis to show the formation of multiple phases. Our results show the formation of alloys such as GST213 and GST324 in all length scales. Furthermore, the alloy compositions and the observed phase separation pathways agree to a large extent with theoretical results from density functional theory calculations.
Photothermal Conversion Profiling of Large-Scaled Synthesized Gold Nanorods Using Binary Surfactant with Hydroquinone as a Reducing Agent
Authors: Lebepe Thabang Calvin , Oluwafemi Oluwatobi Samuel
Published: May 2022

Photothermal application of gold nanorods (AuNRs) is widely increasing because of their good photothermal conversion efficiency (PCE) due to local surface plasmon resonance. However, the high concentration of hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide used in the synthesis is a concern. Moreover, the mild and commonly used reducing agent-ascorbic acid does not reduce the Au(I) to A(0) entirely, resulting in a low yield of gold nanorods. Herein we report for the first time the PCE of large-scaled synthesized AuNRs using the binary surfactant seed-mediated method with hydroquinone (HQ) as the reducing agent. The temporal evolution of the optical properties and morphology was investigated by varying the Ag concentration, HQ concentration, HCl volumes, and seed solution volume. The results showed that the seed volume, HQ concentration, and HCl volume played a significant role in forming mini-AuNRs absorbing in the 800 nm region with a shape yield of 87.7%. The as-synthesized AuNRs were successfully up-scaled to a larger volume based on the optimum synthetic conditions followed by photothermal profiling. The photothermal profiling analysis showed a temperature increase of more than 54.2 °C at 2.55 W cm−2 at a low optical density (OD) of 0.160 after 630 s irradiation, with a PCE of approximately 21%, presenting it as an ideal photothermal agent.
Effect of Dietary Supplementation with Eufortyn® Colesterolo Plus on Serum Lipids, Endothelial Reactivity, Indexes of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Systemic Inflammation in Healthy Subjects with Polygenic Hypercholesterolemia: The ANEMONE Study
Authors: Fogacci Federica , Rizzoli Elisabetta , Giovannini Marina , Bove Marilisa , D’Addato Sergio , Borghi Claudio , Cicero Arrigo F. G.
Published: May 2022

We aimed to evaluate if dietary supplementation with a nutraceutical compound (Eufortyn® Colesterolo Plus) containing standardized bergamot polyphenolic fraction phytosome (Vazguard®), artichoke extract (Pycrinil®), artichoke dry extract. (Cynara scolymus L.), Q10 phytosome(Ubiqosome®) and zinc, could positively affect serum lipids concentration, systemic inflammation and indexes of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in 60 healthy subjects with polygenic hypercholesterolemia. Participants were adhering to a low-fat, low-sodium Mediterranean diet for a month before being randomly allocated to 8-week treatment with 1 pill each day of either Eufortyn® Colesterolo Plus or placebo. Dietary supplementation with Eufortyn® Colesterolo Plus was associated with significant improvement in total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and endothelial reactivity (ER) in comparison with baseline, and with significant reductions in waist circumference, TC, LDL-C, LDL-C/HDL-C, lipid accumulation product and fatty liver index compared to placebo. The study shows that dietary supplementation with standardized bergamot polyphenolic fraction phytosome, artichoke extracts, Q10 phytosome and zinc safely exerts significant improvements in serum lipids, systemic inflammation, indexes of NAFLD and endothelial reactivity in healthy subjects with moderate hypercholesterolemia.
Lupin Protein Concentrate as a Novel Functional Food Additive That Can Reduce Colitis-Induced Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Mota Joana , Casimiro Sandra , Fernandes João , Hartmann Renata M. , Schemitt Elizângela , Picada Jaqueline , Costa Luís , Marroni Norma , Raymundo Anabela , Lima Ana , Ferreira Ricardo Boavida
Published: May 2022

Food fortification with bioactive compounds may constitute a way to ameliorate inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Lupin seeds contain an oligomer named deflamin that can reduce IBD’s symptoms via MMP-9 inhibition. Here, our goal was to develop a lupin protein concentrate (LPC) enriched in deflamin and to test its application as a food additive to be used as a functional food against colitis. The nutritional profile of the LPC was evaluated, and its efficacy in vivo was tested, either alone or as added to wheat cookies. The LPC presented high protein and carbohydrate contents (20.09 g/100 g and 62.05/100 g, respectively), as well as antioxidant activity (FRAP: 351.19 mg AAE/10 mg and DPPH: 273.9 mg AAE/10 mg). It was also effective against TNBS-induced colitis in a dose dependent-manner, reducing DAI scores by more than 50% and concomitantly inhibiting MMP-9 activity. When added to cookies, the LPC activities were maintained after baking, and a 4-day diet with LPC cookies induced a significant protective effect against acetic acid-induced colitis, overall bringing lesions, oxidative stress and DNA damage levels to values significantly similar to controls (p < 0.001). The results show that the LPC is an efficient way to deliver deflamin in IBD-targeted diets.
Microbial Contamination of Preservative-Free Artificial Tears Based on Instillation Techniques
Authors: Lee Jee-Hye , Kang Min-Ji , Sim Ha-Eun , Hwang Je-Hyung
Published: May 2022

Preservative-free artificial tears eliminate the side effects of preservatives but are prone to microbial contamination. This study evaluates the incidence of microbial contaminations in single-use vials of preservative-free 0.1% hyaluronate artificial tears. Based on what touched the vial tip during its first use, 60 unit-dose vials (0.5 mL) were divided into groups A (no touch, n = 20), B (fingertip, n = 20), and C (lid margin, n = 20). The vials were recapped after the first use, and the residual solution was cultured 24 h later. The solution from 20 aseptically opened and unused vials was also cultured (group D). Microbial contamination rates were compared between the groups using the Fisher’s exact test. Groups B and C contained 45% (9/20) and 10% (2/20) contaminations while groups A and D contained undetected microbial growth. The culture positivity rates were significantly different between groups A and B (p = 0.001) and groups B and C (p = 0.013) but not between groups A and C (p = 0.487). We demonstrate a significantly higher risk of contamination when fingertips touch the vial mouth. Therefore, users should avoid the vial tip touching the fingers or eyelid during instillation to prevent contamination of the eye drops.
Care Ethics and Paternalism: A Beauvoirian Approach
Authors: Durmuş Deniz
Published: May 2022

Feminist care ethics has become a prominent ethical theory that influenced theoretical and practical discussions in a variety of disciplines and institutions on a global scale. However, it has been criticized by transnational feminist scholars for operating with Western-centric assumptions and registers, especially by universalizing care as it is practiced in the Global North. It has also been criticized for prioritizing gender over other categories of intersectionality and hence for not being truly intersectional. Given the imperialist and colonial legacies embedded into the unequal distribution of care work across the globe, a Western-centric approach may also carry the danger of paternalism. Hence, a critical approach to care ethics would require reckoning with these challenges. The aim of this article is first to unfold these discussions and the responses to them from care ethics scholars and then to present resources in Beauvoir’s existentialist ethics, specifically the tenet of treating the other as freedom, as productive tools for countering the Western-centric and paternalistic aspects of care practices.
One Health Probiotics as Biocontrol Agents: One Health Tomato Probiotics
Authors: Harutyunyan Natalya , Kushugulova Almagul , Hovhannisyan Narine , Pepoyan Astghik
Published: May 2022

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) is one of the most popular and valuable vegetables in the world. The most common products of its industrial processing in the food industry are juice, tomato paste, various sauces, canned or sun-dried fruits and powdered products. Tomato fruits are susceptible to bacterial diseases, and bacterial contamination can be a risk factor for the safety of processed tomato products. Developments in bioinformatics allow researchers to discuss target probiotic strains from an existing large number of probiotic strains for any link in the soil–plant–animal-human chain. Based on the literature and knowledge on the “One Health” concept, this study relates to the suggestion of a new term for probiotics: “One Health probiotics”, beneficial for the unity of people, animals, and the environment. Strains of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, having an ability to ferment a broad spectrum of plant carbohydrates, probiotic effects in human, and animal health, as well as being found in dairy products, vegetables, sauerkraut, pickles, some cheeses, fermented sausages, fish products, and rhizospheric soil, might be suggested as one of the probable candidates for “One Health” probiotics (also, for “One Health—tomato” probiotics) for the utilization in agriculture, food processing, and healthcare.
Wear and Service Life of 3-D Printed Polymeric Gears
Authors: Tunalioglu Mert Safak , Agca Bekir Volkan
Published: May 2022

Plastic gears are mostly used in the textile, food, and automotive industries due to their silent operation, corrosion resistance, and light and cheap advantages. Plastic gears are generally manufactured by injection molding or hobbing methods. The excess costs of the molds used to produce parts in injection molding and the problems of wastes that occur during production in hobbing lead companies to additive manufacturing, which is an alternative application. In the additive manufacturing method, the desired amount of product is produced without the problem of waste. In this study, the wear resistance of plastic spur gears produced by the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) method was determined theoretically. In order to determine the service life of gears, wear tests were carried out in the Forschungsstelle fur Zahnrader und Getriebebau (FZG) type test device at the same load and rotational speeds. polylactic acid (PLA), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polyethylene terephthalate (PETG) thermoplastic polymer materials were used in the production of gears. When the gears rotate at the same load and rotational speeds, the most wear was observed in ABS, PLA, and PETG at the theoretically calculated wear depths. PETG is the most resistant material in terms of wear.
Depositional Environment Changes during the Cenozoic in the Northeastern Margin of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Wang Yetong , Sun Guoqiang , Zhang Shuncun , Cantarero Irene , Cruset David , Baqués Vinyet , Guo Hui , Bo Shangshang , Travé Anna
Published: May 2022

The uplift of the Tibetan Plateau (TP) during the late Cenozoic is thought to be one of the crucial factors controlling the Asian climate. However, the complex interaction between tectonics and climate change remains unclear. The carbon and oxygen isotopes and elementary geochemistry of rocks from the early Eocene Lulehe Formation to the Miocene Youshashan Formation in the northern margin of Qaidam Basin, shows important variations in the Rb/Sr, MgO/CaO, Sr/Cu, and V/Cr ratios, together with CMI and CIA, which are interpreted as reflecting relevant regional climate and environmental changes. Combining the above mentioned parameters, we reconstructed the evolution of the sedimentary environment in the Qaidam Basin. The climate is roughly divided into four stages: (1) warm and humid; (2) cold and dry; (3) alternations of cold and dry with warm and humid; and (4) cold and arid. At the same time, there are also minor short-term changes of dry, wet, cold, and warm in each stage. The early Eocene to Miocene climate changes in the Qaidam Basin were mainly affected by global climate changes, the uplift of the Qinghai Tibet Plateau, and the long-lasting plate collision, but there was no continuous drought due to the uplift of the Qinghai Tibet Plateau. From the early Eocene to the late Miocene, the climate of the Qaidam Basin became warm and humid.
Linear Golden Section Speed Adaptive Control of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Based on Model Design
Authors: Jiang Wenping , Han Wenchao , Wang Lingyang , Liu Zhouyang , Du Weidong
Published: May 2022

Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) is a multi-variable, strongly coupled, nonlinear complex system. It is usually difficult to establish an accurate mathematical model, and the introduction of new complex algorithms will increase the difficulty of embedded code development. In order to solve this problem, we establish the characteristic model of permanent magnet synchronous motor in this paper, and the speed control scheme of the linear golden-section adaptive control and integral compensation, which is adopted. Finally, using the model-based design (MBD) method, how to build the simulink embedded code automatic generation model is introduced in detail, and then we complete the PMSM speed control physical verification experiment. Simulation and experimental results show that compared with traditional proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control, the speed control accuracy of PMSM is improved about 3.8 times. Meanwhile, the development method based on the model design can increase the PMSM control system physical verification, and then improve the development efficiency.
Pakikipagkapwa (Fellowship): Towards an Interfaith Dialogue with the Religious Others
Authors: Canete Jonathan James , del Castillo Fides A.
Published: May 2022

The present study examines the ways in which the Filipino Christian value of pakikipagkapwa (fellowship) can be seen and experienced in modern society. Using empirical phenomenology, this paper aims to (re)imagine the ways of cultivating ways of dialogue with religious others while understand the meaning of pakikipagkapwa (fellowship). This study explores the contemporary notions and practices of pakikipagkapwa among select Filipino Christians and how such cultural value fosters interreligious dialogue. Moreover, the study investigates the importance of dialogue between religious actors as they navigate the uncharted waters of the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors contend that pakikipagkapwa and interreligious dialogue build communities, support social cohesion, and help religious actors find meaning in difficult circumstances.
Multiresolution Aggregation Transformer UNet Based on Multiscale Input and Coordinate Attention for Medical Image Segmentation
Authors: Chen Shaolong , Qiu Changzhen , Yang Weiping , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: May 2022

The latest medical image segmentation methods uses UNet and transformer structures with great success. Multiscale feature fusion is one of the important factors affecting the accuracy of medical image segmentation. Existing transformer-based UNet methods do not comprehensively explore multiscale feature fusion, and there is still much room for improvement. In this paper, we propose a novel multiresolution aggregation transformer UNet (MRA-TUNet) based on multiscale input and coordinate attention for medical image segmentation. It realizes multiresolution aggregation from the following two aspects: (1) On the input side, a multiresolution aggregation module is used to fuse the input image information of different resolutions, which enhances the input features of the network. (2) On the output side, an output feature selection module is used to fuse the output information of different scales to better extract coarse-grained information and fine-grained information. We try to introduce a coordinate attention structure for the first time to further improve the segmentation performance. We compare with state-of-the-art medical image segmentation methods on the automated cardiac diagnosis challenge and the 2018 atrial segmentation challenge. Our method achieved average dice score of 0.911 for right ventricle (RV), 0.890 for myocardium (Myo), 0.961 for left ventricle (LV), and 0.923 for left atrium (LA). The experimental results on two datasets show that our method outperforms eight state-of-the-art medical image segmentation methods in dice score, precision, and recall.
Prefiltered Single-Carrier Frequency-Domain Equalization for Binary CPM over Shallow Water Acoustic Channel
Authors: Han Ruigang , Jia Ning , Guo Zhongyuan , Huang Jianchun , Xiao Dong , Guo Shengming
Published: May 2022

The continuous phase modulation (CPM) technique is an excellent solution for underwater acoustic (UWA) channels with limited bandwidth and high propagation attenuation. However, the severe intersymbol interference is a big problem for the algorithm applying in shallow water. To solve this problem, an algorithm for prefiltered single-carrier frequency-domain equalization (PF-SCFDE) is presented in this paper. The regular whitening filter is replaced by a prefilter in the proposed algorithm. The output information sequence of this prefilter contains the forward information. To improve the performance, the output of the equalizer, combined with the forward information, is used to make the maximum likelihood estimation. The simulation results with minimum-shift keying and Gaussian-filtered minimum-shift keying signals over shallow water acoustic channels with low root mean square delay spread demonstrate that PF-SCFDE outperformed the traditional single-carrier frequency-domain equalization (SCFDE) by approximately 1 dB under a bit error rate (BER) of 10−4. A shallow sea trial has demonstrated the effectiveness of PF-SCFDE; PF-SCFDE had a reduction in BER of 18.35% as compared to the traditional SCFDE.
Segmentation of Plantar Foot Thermal Images Using Prior Information
Authors: Bougrine Asma , Harba Rachid , Canals Raphael , Ledee Roger , Jabloun Meryem , Villeneuve Alain
Published: May 2022

Diabetic foot (DF) complications are associated with temperature variations. The occurrence of DF ulceration could be reduced by using a contactless thermal camera. The aim of our study is to provide a decision support tool for the prevention of DF ulcers. Thus, the segmentation of the plantar foot in thermal images is a challenging step for a non-constraining acquisition protocol. This paper presents a new segmentation method for plantar foot thermal images. This method is designed to include five pieces of prior information regarding the aforementioned images. First, a new energy term is added to the snake of Kass et al. in order to force its curvature to match that of the prior shape, which has a known form. Second, we defined the initial contour as the downsized prior-shape contour, which is placed inside the plantar foot surface in a vertical orientation. This choice makes the snake avoid strong false boundaries present outside the plantar region when evolving. As a result, the snake produces a smooth contour that rapidly converges to the true boundaries of the foot. The proposed method is compared to two classical prior-shape snake methods, that of Ahmed et al. and that of Chen et al. A database of 50 plantar foot thermal images was processed. The results show that the proposed method outperforms the previous two methods with a root-mean-square error of 5.12 pixels and a dice similarity coefficient of 94%. The segmentation of the plantar foot regions in the thermal images helped us to assess the point-to-point temperature differences between the two feet in order to detect hyperthermia regions. The presence of such regions is the pre-sign of ulcers in the diabetic foot. Furthermore, our method was applied to hyperthermia detection to illustrate the promising potential of thermography in the case of the diabetic foot. Associated with a friendly acquisition protocol, the proposed segmentation method is the first step for a future mobile smartphone-based plantar foot thermal analysis for diabetic foot patients.
An Evolutionary Field Theorem: Evolutionary Field Optimization in Training of Power-Weighted Multiplicative Neurons for Nitrogen Oxides-Sensitive Electronic Nose Applications
Authors: Alagoz Baris Baykant , Simsek Ozlem Imik , Ari Davut , Tepljakov Aleksei , Petlenkov Eduard , Alimohammadi Hossein
Published: May 2022

Neuroevolutionary machine learning is an emerging topic in the evolutionary computation field and enables practical modeling solutions for data-driven engineering applications. Contributions of this study to the neuroevolutionary machine learning area are twofold: firstly, this study presents an evolutionary field theorem of search agents and suggests an algorithm for Evolutionary Field Optimization with Geometric Strategies (EFO-GS) on the basis of the evolutionary field theorem. The proposed EFO-GS algorithm benefits from a field-adapted differential crossover mechanism, a field-aware metamutation process to improve the evolutionary search quality. Secondly, the multiplicative neuron model is modified to develop Power-Weighted Multiplicative (PWM) neural models. The modified PWM neuron model involves the power-weighted multiplicative units similar to dendritic branches of biological neurons, and this neuron model can better represent polynomial nonlinearity and they can operate in the real-valued neuron mode, complex-valued neuron mode, and the mixed-mode. In this study, the EFO-GS algorithm is used for the training of the PWM neuron models to perform an efficient neuroevolutionary computation. Authors implement the proposed PWM neural processing with the EFO-GS in an electronic nose application to accurately estimate Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) pollutant concentrations from low-cost multi-sensor array measurements and demonstrate improvements in estimation performance.
Chemical Profile and In Vitro Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity of Dioscorea communis Berry Juice
Authors: Tsami Konstantina , Barda Christina , Ladopoulos George , Didaras Nikos Asoutis , Grafakou Maria-Eleni , Heilmann Jörg , Mossialos Dimitris , Rallis Michail Christou , Skaltsa Helen
Published: May 2022

Within the large family of Dioscoreaceae, Dioscorea communis (L.) Caddick & Wilkin (syn. Tamus communis L.) is considered among the four most widespread representatives in Europe, and it is commonly known under the name black bryony or bryonia. To date, reports have revealed several chemical components from the leaves and tubers of this plant. Nevertheless, an extensive phytochemical investigation has not been performed on its berry juice. In the present study, metabolite profiling procedures, using LC-MS, GC-MS, and NMR approaches, were applied to investigate the chemical profile of the D. communis berries. This work reveals the presence of several metabolites belonging to different phytochemical groups, such as fatty acid esters, alkylamides, phenolic derivatives, and organic acids, with lactic acid being predominant. In parallel, based on orally transmitted traditional uses, the initial extract and selected fractions were tested in vitro for their antibacterial effects and exhibited good activity against two bacterial strains related to skin infections: methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Cutibacterium acnes. The MIC and MBC values of the extract were determined at 1.56% w/v against both bacteria. The results of this study provide important information on the chemical characterization of the D. communis berry juice, unveiling the presence of 71 metabolites, which might contribute to and further explain its specific antibacterial activity and its occasional toxicity.
Research on the Structure of Carbon Emission Efficiency and Influencing Factors in the Yangtze River Delta Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Liu Chenxu , Tang Ruien , Guo Yaqi , Sun Yuhan , Liu Xinyi
Published: May 2022

Climate change caused by CO2 emissions has become one of the most serious environmental problems facing the world today, and it has a strong relevance to sustainability. This paper measures the carbon emission efficiency of the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration from 2001 to 2019 using the U-S SBM model. The modified gravity model and social network analysis methods are used to explore its spatially correlated network structure, and QAP regression is used to explore the influencing factors. The results show the following: (1) The spatial correlation of the carbon emission efficiency in the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration increased during the study period, showing a complex network structure with multiple threads and directions, and a strong mobility of the network. (2) The spatial network of the carbon emission efficiency in the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration gradually formed a core−edge structure with southern Jiangsu as the core area, northern Zhejiang and central Jiangsu as the secondary core area, and central Anhui and southern Zhejiang as the edge area during the study period. (3) The spatial correlation network of carbon emission efficiency in the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration is divided into “net benefit”, “net spillover”, “two-way spillover”, and “broker”. (4) Differences in energy intensity, government environmental regulations, technology research and development, and economic export orientation are the main factors affecting the spatial correlation of carbon emission efficiency in the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration.
A Holistic Perspective Model of Plenary Online Consumer Behaviors for Sustainable Guidelines of the Electronic Business Platforms
Authors: Puengwattanapong Prateep , Leelasantitham Adisorn
Published: May 2022

The holistic perspective model is a concept of three stages that considers the whole of online consumer behavior. It is based on dynamic aspects and overview measurement to demonstrate the preliminary of three stages, including “Pre-purchase”, “Purchase” and “Post-purchase”. There is a shared purpose for all the positive, negative, and hesitation factors that inhibit or encourage online shopping decisions. This model can capture the dynamic and fast-changing elements in online shopping platforms. Most online buying-selling platforms are gaining popularity and growing rapidly. Thus, they should maintain good levels of online customers’ satisfaction. This research presents a balanced investigation model of online consumer purchasing behaviors under uncertainty through the integration of Push-Pull Mooring (PPM) theory and the three stages of online consumer behaviors. In this study, questionnaires were collected from 525 online applications from experienced users of electronic business platforms. The outcome reveals that PPM affects three stages of online consumer behaviors. This means that PPM factors influence online customers during and after online shopping. This research can be used to develop attractive online shopping applications for prospective customers while retaining existing customers, which is the challenge faced by online shopping platforms.
Multi-Component Passivators Regulate Heavy Metal Accumulation in Paddy Soil and Rice: A Three-Site Field Experiment in South China
Authors: Zhao Shouping , Ye Xuezhu , Chen De , Zhang Qi , Xiao Wendan , Wu Shaofu , Hu Jing , Gao Na , Huang Miaojie
Published: May 2022

To fulfill sustainability principles, a three-site field experiment was conducted to screen suitably mixed passivators from lime + biochar (L + C, 9000 kgha−1 with a rate of 1:1) and lime + biochar + sepiolite (L + C + S, 9000 kg ha−1 with a rate of 1:1:1), in Yuecheng (YC), Zhuji (ZJ), and Fuyang (FY), where there are typical contaminated soils, in South China. Treated with passivators in soil, DTPA-extractable Cd, Crand Pb in soil were decreased by 9.87–26.3%, 37.2–67.5%, and 19.0–54.2%, respectively; Cd, Cr, and Pb in rice were decreased by 85.9–91.5%, 40.0–76.5%, and 16.4–45.4%, respectively; and these were followed by slightly higher efficacy of L + C + S than L + C. The differences between L + C and L + C + S mainly lie in soil microbial communities, enzymes, and fertility. In YC, treatment with L + C + S increased microbial carbon and activities of urease (EC3.5.1.5) and phosphatase (EC3.1.3.1) by 21.0%, 85.5%, and 22.3%; while treatment with L + C decreased microbial carbon and activities of phosphatase and sucrose (EC3.2.1.26) by 1.31%, 34.9%, and 43.4%, respectively. Moreover, the treatment of FY soils with L + C + S increased microbial carbon and activities of urease, phosphatase, and sucrase by 35.4%, 41.6%, 27.9%, and 7.37%; and L + C treatment only increased the microbial carbon and the activity of phosphatase by 3.14% and 30.3%, respectively. Furthermore, the organic matter and available nitrogen were also increased by 8.8–19.0% and 7.4–14.6% with L + C + S treatments, respectively. These suggested that the combination of L + C + S stimulated the growth of soil microbial communities and increased the activity of soil enzymes. Therefore, the L + C + S strategy can be a practical and effective measure for safe rice production as it was more suitable for the remediation of heavy metals in our experimental sites.
Carry-Over of Zearalenone and Its Metabolites to Intestinal Tissues and the Expression of CYP1A1 and GSTπ1 in the Colon of Gilts before Puberty
Authors: Mróz Magdalena , Gajęcka Magdalena , Brzuzan Paweł , Lisieska-Żołnierczyk Sylwia , Leski Dawid , Zielonka Łukasz , Gajęcki Maciej T.
Published: May 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether low doses of zearalenone (ZEN) affect the carry-over of ZEN and its metabolites to intestinal tissues and the expression of CYP1A1 and GSTπ1 in the large intestine. Prepubertal gilts (with a BW of up to 14.5 kg) were exposed in group ZEN to daily ZEN5 doses of 5 μg/kg BW (n = 15); in group ZEN10, 10 μg/kg BW (n = 15); in group ZEN15, 15 μg/kg BW (n = 15); or were administered a placebo (group C, n = 15) throughout the experiment. After euthanasia, tissues were sampled on exposure days 7, 21, and 42 (D1, D2, and D3, respectively). The results confirmed that the administered ZEN doses (LOAEL, NOAEL, and MABEL) were appropriate to reliably assess the carry-over of ZEN. Based on the observations made during 42 days of exposure to pure ZEN, it can be hypothesized that all mycotoxins (ZEN, α-zearalenol, and β-zearalenol) contribute to a balance between intestinal cells and the expression of selected genes encoding enzymes that participate in biotransformation processes in the large intestine; modulate feminization processes in prepubertal gilts; and elicit flexible, adaptive responses of the macroorganism to mycotoxin exposure at the analyzed doses.
Vaccination for the Prevention of Infection among Immunocompromised Patients: A Concise Review of Recent Systematic Reviews
Authors: See Kay Choong
Published: May 2022

Vaccination is crucial for avoiding infection-associated morbidity and mortality among immunocompromised patients. However, immunocompromised patients respond less well to vaccinations compared to healthy people, and little is known about the relative efficacy of various vaccines among different immunocompromised states. A total of 54 systematic reviews (22 COVID-19; 32 non-COVID-19) published within the last 5 years in Pubmed® were reviewed. They demonstrated similar patterns within three seroconversion response categories: good (about >60% when compared to healthy controls), intermediate (~40–60%), and poor (about <40%). Good vaccine responses would be expected for patients with chronic kidney disease, human immunodeficiency virus infection (normal CD4 counts), immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, post-splenectomy states, and solid tumors. Intermediate vaccine responses would be expected for patients with anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 therapy, hematologic cancer, and human immunodeficiency virus infection (low CD4 counts). Poor vaccine responses would be expected for patients with B-cell-depleting agents (e.g., anti-CD20 therapy), hematopoietic stem-cell transplant, solid organ transplant, and liver cirrhosis. For all vaccine response categories, vaccination should be timed when patients are least immunosuppressed. For the intermediate and poor vaccine response categories, high-dose vaccine, revaccination when patients are less immunosuppressed, checking for seroconversion, additional booster doses, and long-acting monoclonal antibodies may be considered, supplemented by shielding measures.
To the anniversary of the leader of Russian land management science, rector of the State University of Land Use Planning, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Sergey Nikolaevich Volkov
Authors:   State University of Land Management, Moscow, Komov N.V. , Komov N.V. ,   State University of Land Management, Moscow
Published: May 2022

The article is dedicated to the anniversary of the leader of Russian land management science, rector of the State University of Land Use Planning, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Sergey Nikolaevich Volkov.
PERENCANAAN STRATEGIS SISTEM INFORMASI HOTEL XYZ BALIKPAPAN
Authors: Yogaswara Rama , Raniah Sausan Yasmin , Tri Wiranti Yuyun , Valentine Febrian , Dian Bellani Nabila , Dian Aulianur Saskia , Suprayetno Hendrik , Dian Ramadhan Mohammad Najikh
Published: May 2022

Setiap perusahaan atau organisasi tentunya memiliki tujuan yang ingin dicapai. Hotel XYZ merupakan salah satu perusahaan yang bergerak pada bidang pariwisata. Untuk membantu mencapai tujuannya, Hotel XYZ menerapkan pemanfaatan SI/TI. Dalam menjalankan operasional bisnisnya, Hotel XYZ dibantu dengan aplikasi Virtual Hotel Program (VHP). Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menyelaraskan kebutuhan strategi bisnis dan strategi SI/TI untuk meningkatkan keunggulan dari Hotel XYZ dengan dilakukannya analisis situasi yang terjadi serta menentukan perencanaan strategi untuk mendukung bisnis hotel XYZ. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode Ward and Peppard. Metodologi penelitian yang dijalankan dengan melakukan perumusan masalah, melakukan studi literatur, tahap visioning, tahap analysis, tahap direction, dan terakhir tahap recommendation. Dari penelitian ini diketahui Hotel XYZ memiliki kondisi sistem informasi yang sejalan dengan tren industri hotel lainnya, selain itu didapatkan hasil berupa strategi sistem informasi bisnis dimana Hotel XYZ perlu untuk mengembangkan website dan aplikasi mobile, strategi teknologi informasi dimana Hotel XYZ perlu melakukan pembaruan perangkat TI, serta strategi manajemen SI/TI yang dapat meningkatkan keunggulan dan nilai dari Hotel XYZ.
GROUPING OF EDUCATION LEVEL BASED ON THE NUMBER OF SCHOOLS IN JAWA BARAT PROVINCE USING K-MEANS ALGORITHM
Authors: Alfianti Zulia Imami
Published: May 2022

Pendidikan di Indonesia terbagi menjadi tiga jenis yaitu pendidikan formal, pendidikan non formal dan pendidikan Informal. Jarak tempuh sekolah dengan tempat tinggal mempengaruhi tingkat pendidikan sekolah dasar dan menengah. Banyak masyarakat yang tidak melanjutkan sekolah dikarenakan jarak tempuh sekolah dengan tempat tinggal memiliki jarak tempuh yang sangat jauh. Peristiwa ini tentunya menurunkan tingkat indeks pendidikan di provinsi Jawa Barat dan meningkatkan angka kemiskinan. Pada penelitian ini akan dilakukan pengklusteran wilayah berdasarkan jumlah sekolah dasar dan menengah untuk menentukan indeks pendidikan di provinsi Jawa Barat menggunakan algoritma K-Means. Pengklasteran dilakukan untuk membagi kabupaten/kota di Provinsi Jawa Barat Menjadi tiga cluster yaitu tinggi, sedang, dan menengah berdasarkan jumlah sekolah dasar dan menengah pada provinsi Jawa Barat. Hasil dari penelitian ini yaitu terdapat 44% wilayah yang memiliki indeks pendidikan rendah, 37 % memiliki indeks pendidikan sedang, dan 19 % memiliki indeks pendidikan yang tinggi berdasarkan jumlah sekolah dasar menengah yng tersebar di seluruh kabupaten/kota pada provinsi Jawa Barat.
PENERAPAN METODE SERVICE QUALITY DALAM ANALISIS PERSEPSI KONSUMEN PADA PELAYANAN PEMESANAN BARANG E-COMMERCE DI UNIVERSITAS PRIMA INDONESIA
Authors: Joelio Gideon , Nugrah Lucky , Saputra Muhardi
Published: May 2022

Seiring berjalannya waktu, gaya hidup masyarakat semakin serba instan karena sebagian besar masyarakat memiliki mobilitas yang tinggi dalam menjalankan aktivitasnya, sehingga masyarakat seringkali mencari sesuatu yang nyaman dan mudah untuk memenuhi kebutuhan sehari-hari, diikuti dengan penyediaan berbagai layanan E-commerce yang membantu para pelakunya. bisnis menghasilkan penjualan. Layanan e-commerce yang semakin menarik, mudah diakses, dan dapat menguntungkan sistem penjualan bagi para pelaku bisnis dan pelanggan. Oleh karena itu, sistem penjualan e-commerce sangat penting untuk diperhatikan karena sistem penjualan barang suatu perusahaan tidak lepas dari perkembangan teknologi informasi. Kualitas pelayanan merupakan tingkat keunggulan yang diharapkan dapat memenuhi keinginan konsumen. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui tingkat kepuasan pada setiap atribut Service Quality, tanggapan pelanggan dari setiap atribut yang digunakan yaitu: Berwujud (Tangibles), Reliability (Excellence), Perceptive (Responsiveness), Jaminan (Assurance), Empathy (Empathy), dengan menggunakan metode Service Quality, dan memberikan saran untuk meningkatkan kualitas pelayanan pemesanan barang pada e-commerce.