bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Geopolymer from a Novel Aluminosilicate-Based Natural Soil Precursor Using Electric Oven Curing for Improved Mechanical Strength
Authors: Zain-ul-abdein Muhammad , Ahmed Furqan , Channa Iftikhar Ahmed , Makhdoom Muhammad Atif , Ali Raza , Ehsan Muhammad , Aamir Abdullah , Ul Haq Ehsan , Nadeem Muhammad , Shafi Hafiz Zahid , Shar Muhammad Ali , Alhazaa Abdulaziz
Published: November 2022

Natural soil (NS)-based geopolymers (GPs) have shown promise as environmentally friendly construction materials. The production of ordinary Portland cement is known to release significant amounts of greenhouse gas (CO2) into the atmosphere. The main objective of this work is to synthesize a geopolymer (GP) from an uncommon aluminosilicate-based NS and a sodium silicate (SS) activating solution that would not only minimize the emission of harmful gases, but also offer improved mechanical strength. Samples of different compositions were produced by varying the wt.% of NS from 50% to 80% and adding a balancing amount of SS solution. The drying and curing of the samples were carried out in an electric oven at specific temperatures. The degree of geopolymerization in the samples was measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and microstructural analysis was performed using a scanning electron microscope. Mechanical tests were conducted to evaluate the range of compressive strength values of the prepared GP samples. A minimum compressive strength of 10.93 MPa at a maximum porosity of 37.56% was observed in a sample with an NS to SS ratio of 1:1; while a ratio of 3:1 led to the maximum compressive strength of 26.39 MPa and the minimum porosity of 24.60%. The maximum strength (26.39 MPa) was found to be more than the reported strength values for similar systems. Moreover, an improvement in strength by a factor of three has been observed relative to previously developed NS-based GPs. It may be inferred from the findings that for the given NS, with almost 90% aluminosilicate content, the extent of geopolymerization increases significantly with its increasing proportions, yielding better mechanical strength.
Extraction and Reconstruction of Arbitrary 3D Frequency Features from the Potassium Dihydrogen Phosphate Surfaces Machined by Different Cutting Parameters
Authors: Pang Qilong , Shu Zihao , Xu Youlin
Published: November 2022

To comprehensively analyze the effect of cutting parameters on the 3D surface topography of machined potassium dihydrogen phosphate crystals, 2D power spectrum density and continuous wavelet transform are used to extract and reconstruct the arbitrary actual 3D frequency features of machined potassium dihydrogen phosphate crystal surfaces. The 2D power spectrum density method is used to quantitatively describe the 3D surface topography of machined potassium dihydrogen phosphate crystals. The continuous wavelet transform method is applied to extract and reconstruct 3D topographies of arbitrary actual spatial frequency features in machined surfaces. The main spatial frequency features fx of the machined surfaces are 0.0056 μm−1, 0.0112 μm−1, and 0.0277 μm−1 with the cutting depth from 3 μm to 9 μm. With the feed rate changing from 8μm/r to 18 μm/r, the main spatial frequency features fx are 0.0056 μm−1–0.0277 μm−1. With the spindle speed from 1300 r/min to 1500 r/min, the main spatial frequency features fx are same as the main spatial frequency features of the cutting depths. The results indicate that the variation of cutting parameters affects the main spatial frequency features on the 3D surface topography. The amplitudes of the spatial middle-frequency features are increased with the increasing of cutting depth and spindle speed. The spatial low-frequency features are mainly affected via the feed rate. The spatial high-frequency features are related to the measurement noise and material properties of potassium dihydrogen phosphate. The distributional directions of the frequency features in the reconstructed 3D surface topography are consistent with the distribution directions of actual frequency features in the original surface topography. The reconstructed topographies of the spatial frequency features with maximum power spectrum density are the most similar to the original 3D surfaces. In this machining, the best 3D surface topography of the machined KDP crystals is obtained with a cutting depth ap = 3 μm, feed rate f = 8 μm/r and a spindle speed n = 1400 r/min.
In-Depth Analysis of Cement-Based Material Incorporating Metakaolin Using Individual and Ensemble Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Bulbul Abdulrahman Mohamad Radwan , Khan Kaffayatullah , Nafees Afnan , Amin Muhammad Nasir , Ahmad Waqas , Usman Muhammad , Nazar Sohaib , Arab Abdullah Mohammad Abu
Published: November 2022

In recent decades, a variety of organizational sectors have demanded and researched green structural materials. Concrete is the most extensively used manmade material. Given the adverse environmental effect of cement manufacturing, research has focused on minimizing environmental impact and cement-based product costs. Metakaolin (MK) as an additive or partial cement replacement is a key subject of concrete research. Developing predictive machine learning (ML) models is crucial as environmental challenges rise. Since cement-based materials have few ML approaches, it is important to develop strategies to enhance their mechanical properties. This article analyses ML techniques for forecasting MK concrete compressive strength (fc’). Three different individual and ensemble ML predictive models are presented in detail, namely decision tree (DT), multilayer perceptron neural network (MLPNN), and random forest (RF), along with the most effective factors, allowing for efficient investigation and prediction of the fc’ of MK concrete. The authors used a database of MK concrete mechanical features for model generalization, a key aspect of any prediction or simulation effort. The database includes 551 data points with relevant model parameters for computing MK concrete’s fc’. The database contains cement, metakaolin, coarse and fine aggregate, water, silica fume, superplasticizer, and age, which affect concrete’s fc’ but were seldom considered critical input characteristics in the past. Finally, the performance of the models is assessed to pick and deploy the best predicted model for MK concrete mechanical characteristics. K-fold cross validation was employed to avoid overfitting issues of the models. Additionally, ML approaches were utilized to combine SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) data to better understand the MK mix design non-linear behaviour and how each input parameter’s weighting influences the total contribution. Results depict that DT AdaBoost and modified bagging are the best ML algorithms for predicting MK concrete fc’ with R2 = 0.92. Moreover, according to SHAP analysis, age impacts MK concrete fc’ the most, followed by coarse aggregate and superplasticizer. Silica fume affects MK concrete’s fc’ least. ML algorithms estimate MK concrete’s mechanical characteristics to promote sustainability.
Temperature Sensor Based on Surface Plasmon Resonance with TiO2-Au-TiO2 Triple Structure
Authors: Song Yutong , Sun Meng , Wu Haoyu , Zhao Wanli , Wang Qi
Published: November 2022

Temperature sensors have been widely applied in daily life and production, but little attention has been paid to the research on temperature sensors based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensors. Therefore, an SPR temperature sensor with a triple structure of titanium dioxide (TiO2) film, gold (Au) film, and TiO2 nanorods is proposed in this article. By optimizing the thickness and structure of TiO2 film and nanorods and Au film, it is found that the sensitivity of the SPR temperature sensor can achieve 6038.53 nm/RIU and the detection temperature sensitivity is −2.40 nm/°C. According to the results, the sensitivity of the optimized sensor is 77.81% higher than that of the sensor with pure Au film, which is attributed to the TiO2(film)-Au-TiO2(nanorods) structure. Moreover, there is a good linear correlation (greater than 0.99) between temperature and resonance wavelength in the range from 0 °C to 60 °C, which can ensure the detection resolution. The high sensitivity, FOM, and detection resolution indicate that the proposed SPR sensor has a promising application in temperature monitoring.
The Analysis of Materials Strength Used in the Construction of the Flexible Underwater Bell—Batychron
Authors: Rutkowski Grzegorz , Kołakowski Paweł , Panasiuk Katarzyna
Published: November 2022

Batychron is a flexible underwater bell patented by the Gdynia Maritime University as a device used in hydro-technics engineering for underwater transport and diving while maintaining the safety of human life. This study aims to present the methods and results of strength tests and the conducted analysis of the selection of the most appropriate method of joining thermoplastic polyurethane film (TPU) and polypropylene belts for underwater use to obtain a device with a specific buoyancy force. A universal testing machine with a hydraulic drive was used for the tests. Various methods of joining polypropylene belts were tested to select the most favourable in terms of strength properties. For this purpose, two types of materials were selected: the TE324 polyester belt and the TS501_50 style belt. Various connection methods have been used: without seams; zig-zag stitch, straight cross; cross stitch, straight longitudinal; cross stitch, straight transverse, in order to select a joint with the highest strength parameters. In addition, the tensile strength of individual types of belts was tested. The methods of joining the TPU film were verified. The obtained results allowed us to determine that the strongest bond of TE324 material is a straight, longitudinal cross stitch. This is related to the load distribution in the belts tested in laboratory conditions, but also reflected in their practical application. Thanks to the results obtained, it was possible to select the optimal methods of joining (connection) and the construction of Batychron.
Chemical Vapor Deposition of <110> Textured Diamond Film through Pre-Seeding by Diamond Nano-Sheets
Authors: Yang Guoyong , Lu Yunxiang , Wang Bo , Xia Yue , Chen Huanyi , Song Hui , Yi Jian , Deng Lifen , Wang Yuezhong , Li He
Published: November 2022

Diamond films prepared by chemical vapor deposition will exhibit different surface morphologies, which are determined by the texture and the structural perfection of the deposited diamond. In general, its surface morphology can be controlled by adjusting the deposition conditions. In the present work, <110> textured diamond film was deposited on single crystalline silicon through pre-seeding by diamond nanosheets, rather than controlling the deposition conditions. The employed diamond nano-sheets were prepared by cleavage along a plane, exhibiting good crystallinity. Before chemical vapor deposition, the as-prepared diamond nano-sheets were pre-seeded on the surface of single crystalline silicon as nucleation sites for diamond growth. SEM and XRD results show that the prepared diamond films have a <110> texture. FIB observation reveals that diamonds homogeneously grow on the pre-seeded diamond nano-sheets during chemical vapor deposition, achieving the diamond film with <110> texture. Our work provides a new strategy to prepare <110> textured diamond film.
Bio-Inspired Micro- and Nanorobotics Driven by Magnetic Field
Authors: Chesnitskiy Anton V. , Gayduk Alexey E. , Seleznev Vladimir A. , Prinz Victor Ya
Published: November 2022

In recent years, there has been explosive growth in the number of investigations devoted to the development and study of biomimetic micro- and nanorobots. The present review is dedicated to novel bioinspired magnetic micro- and nanodevices that can be remotely controlled by an external magnetic field. This approach to actuate micro- and nanorobots is non-invasive and absolutely harmless for living organisms in vivo and cell microsurgery, and is very promising for medicine in the near future. Particular attention has been paid to the latest advances in the rapidly developing field of designing polymer-based flexible and rigid magnetic composites and fabricating structures inspired by living micro-objects and organisms. The physical principles underlying the functioning of hybrid bio-inspired magnetic miniature robots, sensors, and actuators are considered in this review, and key practical applications and challenges are analyzed as well.
Thermal Behavior Modeling Based on BP Neural Network in Keras Framework for Motorized Machine Tool Spindles
Authors: Kosarac Aleksandar , Cep Robert , Trochta Miroslav , Knezev Milos , Zivkovic Aleksandar , Mladjenovic Cvijetin , Antic Aco
Published: November 2022

This paper presents the development and evaluation of neural network models using a small input–output dataset to predict the thermal behavior of a high-speed motorized spindles. Different neural multi-output regression models were developed and evaluated using Keras, one of the most popular deep learning frameworks at the moment. ANN was developed and evaluated considering the following: the influence of the topology (number of hidden layers and neurons within), the learning parameter, and validation techniques. The neural network was simulated using a dataset that was completely unknown to the network. The ANN model was used for analyzing the effect of working conditions on the thermal behavior of the motorized grinder spindle. The prediction accuracy of the ANN model for the spindle thermal behavior ranged from 95% to 98%. The results show that the ANN model with small datasets can accurately predict the temperature of the spindle under different working conditions. In addition, the analysis showed a very strong effect of type coolant on spindle unit temperature, particularly for intensive cooling with water.
Bimodal-Distributed Binarized Neural Networks
Authors: Rozen Tal , Kimhi Moshe , Chmiel Brian , Mendelson Avi , Baskin Chaim
Published: November 2022

Binary neural networks (BNNs) are an extremely promising method for reducing deep neural networks’ complexity and power consumption significantly. Binarization techniques, however, suffer from ineligible performance degradation compared to their full-precision counterparts. Prior work mainly focused on strategies for sign function approximation during the forward and backward phases to reduce the quantization error during the binarization process. In this work, we propose a bimodal-distributed binarization method (BD-BNN). The newly proposed technique aims to impose a bimodal distribution of the network weights by kurtosis regularization. The proposed method consists of a teacher–trainer training scheme termed weight distribution mimicking (WDM), which efficiently imitates the full-precision network weight distribution to their binary counterpart. Preserving this distribution during binarization-aware training creates robust and informative binary feature maps and thus it can significantly reduce the generalization error of the BNN. Extensive evaluations on CIFAR-10 and ImageNet demonstrate that our newly proposed BD-BNN outperforms current state-of-the-art schemes.
Chaos in Analog Electronic Circuits: Comprehensive Review, Solved Problems, Open Topics and Small Example
Authors: Petrzela Jiri
Published: November 2022

This paper strives to achieve a comprehensive review of chaos in analog circuits and lumped electronic networks. Readers will be guided from the beginning of the investigations of simple electronic circuits to the current trends in the research into chaos. The author tries to provide the key references related to this issue, including papers describing modern numerical algorithms capable of localizing chaotic and hyperchaotic motion in complex mathematical models, interesting full on-chip implementations of chaotic systems, possible practical applications of entropic signals, fractional-order chaotic systems and chaotic oscillators with mem-elements.
OASIS-Net: Morphological Attention Ensemble Learning for Surface Defect Detection
Authors: Hong Younggi , Yoo Seok Bong
Published: November 2022

Surface defect detection systems, which have advanced beyond conventional defect detection methods, lower the risk of accidents and increase working efficiency and productivity. Most fault detection techniques demand extra tools, such as ultrasonic sensors or lasers. With the advancements, these techniques can be examined without additional tools. We propose a morphological attention ensemble learning for surface defect detection called OASIS-Net, which can detect defects of three kinds (crack, efflorescence, and spalling) at the bounding box level. Based on the morphological analysis of each defect, OASIS-Net offers specialized loss functions for each defect that can be examined. Specifically, high-frequency image augmentation, connectivity attention, and penalty areas are used to detect cracks. It also compares the colors of the sensing objects and analyzes the image histogram peaks to improve the efflorescence-verification accuracy. Analyzing the ratio of the major and minor axes of the spalling through morphological comparison reveals that the spalling-detection accuracy improved. Defect images are challenging to obtain due to their properties. We labeled some data provided by AI hub and some concrete crack datasets and used them as custom datasets. Finally, an ensemble learning technique based on multi-task classification is suggested to learn and apply the specialized loss of each class to the model. For the custom dataset, the accuracy of the crack detection increased by 5%, the accuracy of the efflorescence detection increased by 4.4%, and the accuracy of the spalling detection increased by 6.6%. The experimental results reveal that the proposed network outperforms the previous state-of-the-art methods.
Computational Scheme for the First-Order Linear Integro-Differential Equations Based on the Shifted Legendre Spectral Collocation Method
Authors: Chen Zhuoqian , Xu Houbao , Huo Huixia
Published: November 2022

First-order linear Integro-Differential Equations (IDEs) has a major importance in modeling of some phenomena in sciences and engineering. The numerical solution for the first-order linear IDEs is usually obtained by the finite-differences methods. However, the convergence rate of the finite-differences method is limited by the order of the differences in L1 space. Therefore, how to design a computational scheme for the first-order linear IDEs with computational efficiency becomes an urgent problem to be solved. To this end, a polynomial approximation scheme based on the shifted Legendre spectral collocation method is proposed in this paper. First, we transform the first-order linear IDEs into an Cauchy problem for consideration. Second, by decomposing the system operator, we rewrite the Cauchy problem into a more general form for approximating. Then, by using the shifted Legendre spectral collocation method, we construct a computational scheme and write it into an abstract version. The convergence of the scheme is proven in the sense of L1-norm by employing Trotter-Kato theorem. At the end of this paper, we summarize the usage of the scheme into an algorithm and present some numerical examples to show the applications of the algorithm.
The Stability Guided Multidisciplinary Treatment of Skeletal Class III Malocclusion Involving Impacted Canines and Thin Periodontal Biotype: A Case Report with Eight-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Li Juan , Feng Xiaoyan , Lin Yi , Lin Jun
Published: November 2022

Skeletal class III malocclusion with severe skeletal disharmonies and arch discrepancies is usually treated via the conventional orthodontic-surgical approach. However, when associated with tooth impaction and periodontal risks, the treatment is more challenging and complex. The esthetic, occlusal, and periodontal stability of the treatment outcome is more difficult to obtain. The 16-year-old female patient in this case was diagnosed with dental and skeletal Class III malocclusion, bilateral impacted maxillary canines, and scalloped thin gingiva. The multidisciplinary management included a segmental arch technique, extracting two premolars, a subepithelial connective tissue graft surgery, and orthognathic surgery. The esthetic facial profile, pleasant smile, appropriate occlusion, and functional treatment results were obtained and maintained in 8-year follow-up.
A Rare Case of Familial Schwannomatosis Showing Intrafamilial Variability with Identification of a Shared Novel Germline SMARCB1 Mutation
Authors: Lee Jun Hyun , Jeong Jae Seok , Chae Kum Ju , Han Yeon-Hee , Kim So Ri , Lee Yong Chul
Published: November 2022

Schwannomatosis is characterized by the presence of multiple schwannomas without landmarks of NF2. It is considered the rarest form of neurofibromatosis (NF). Here, we report the first case of familial schwannomatosis with regard to the segmental/generalized phenotype, in which the proband and the daughter present a distinct phenotype in this classification. The proband presents a generalized, painless, extradural type of schwannomatosis, while the daughter shows a segmental, painful, intradural type of schwannomatosis. Whole-exome sequencing of the affected individuals revealed a shared novel SMARCB1 gene mutation (c.92A > G, p.Glu31Gly) despite the clinical variability. We thus suggest two points in the diagnosis of familial schwannomatosis: The identified novel germline SMARCB1 variant can be reflective of a phenotypical progression from a segmental to a generalized type of schwannomatosis, or an intrafamilial variability in inherited schwannomatosis, which was not reported in previous literature. The specific combination of somatic NF2 mutations may be a major factor in regulating the severity and scope of the resulting phenotype in schwannomatosis.
Estimating Worldwide Impact of Low Physical Activity on Risk of Developing Ischemic Heart Disease-Related Disability: An Updated Search in the 2019 Global Health Data Exchange (GHDx)
Authors: Lippi Giuseppe , Sanchis-Gomar Fabian , Mattiuzzi Camilla , Lavie Carl J.
Published: November 2022

We provide here updated analysis of the impact of physical inactivity on risk of developing ischemic heart disease (IHD)-related disability along with the latest 10-year progression. We collected data through an electronic search in the 2019 Global Health Data Exchange (GHDx) database using the keywords “low physical activity”, complemented with the additional epidemiologic variables “disability-adjusted life years” (DALYs; number); “ischemic heart disease”; “socio-demographic index” (SDI); “age”; “sex” and “year”, for calculating volume of DALYs lost due to physical activity (PA)-related disability after IHD (LPA-IHD impairment). Based on this search, the overall LPA-IHD impairment was estimated at 7.6 million DALYs in 2019 (3.9 and 3.7 million DALYs in males and females, respectively), thus representing nearly 50% of all PA-related disabilities. The highest impact of LPA-IHD impairment was observed in middle SDI countries, being the lowest in low SDI countries. The LPA-IHD DALYs increased by 17.5% in both sexes during the past 10 years (19.2% in males, and 15.8% in females, respectively), though this trend was dissimilar among different SDI areas, especially during the past two years. In high and high–middle SDI countries, the LPA-IHD grew during the past 2 years, whilst the trend remained stable or declined in other regions. In conclusion, LPA-IHD impairment remains substantial worldwide, leading the way to reinforce current policies aimed at increasing PA volume in the population.
Six-Degree-of-Freedom Posture Measurement Technologies Using Position Sensitive Detectors (PSDs): State of the Art
Authors: Meng Xiangxu , Sun Siwei , Yan Xuetao , Liu Fengman , Cao Liqiang , Wang Qidong , Sun Yu
Published: November 2022

Six degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) posture measurement is an important academic research topic which has been broadly applied in many fields. As a high-speed photoelectronic sensor with ultra-high resolution and precision, position sensitive detector (PSD) has shown to be one of the most competitive candidates in 6-DOF measurement. This review presents the research progress of PSD-based 6-DOF posture measurement systems in the field of large-scale equipment assembly, ultra-precision manufacturing and other emerging areas. A total of six methods for implementing 6-DOF measurement are summarized and their advantages and limitations are discussed. Meanwhile, the paper illustrates challenges, potential solutions and future development trends.
MALDI-TOF MS Identification of Dromedary Camel Ticks and Detection of Associated Microorganisms, Southern Algeria
Authors: Hamlili Fatima Zohra , Maureen Laroche , Diarra Adama Zan , Lafri Ismail , Gassen Brahim , Boutefna Boubaker , Davoust Bernard , Bitam Idir , Parola Philippe
Published: November 2022

This study used MALDI-TOF MS and molecular tools to identify tick species infesting camels from Tamanrasset in southern Algeria and to investigate their associated microorganisms. Ninety-one adult ticks were collected from nine camels and were morphologically identified as Hyalomma spp., Hyalomma dromedarii, Hyalomma excavatum, Hyalomma impeltatum and Hyalomma anatolicum. Next, the legs of all ticks were subjected to MALDI-TOF MS, and 88/91 specimens provided good-quality MS spectra. Our homemade MALDI-TOF MS arthropod spectra database was then updated with the new MS spectra of 14 specimens of molecularly confirmed species in this study. The spectra of the remaining tick specimens not included in the MS database were queried against the upgraded database. All 74 specimens were correctly identified by MALDI-TOF MS, with logarithmic score values ranging from 1.701 to 2.507, with median and mean values of 2.199 and 2.172 ± 0.169, respectively. One H. impeltatum and one H. dromedarii (2/91; 2.20%) tested positive by qPCR for Coxiella burnetii, the agent of Q fever. We also report the first detection of an Anaplasma sp. close to A. platys in H. dromedarii in Algeria and a potentially new Ehrlichia sp. in H. impeltatum.
Different Impacts of Heat-Killed and Viable Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TWK10 on Exercise Performance, Fatigue, Body Composition, and Gut Microbiota in Humans
Authors: Lee Chia-Chia , Liao Yi-Chu , Lee Mon-Chien , Cheng Yi-Chen , Chiou Shiou-Yun , Lin Jin-Seng , Huang Chi-Chang , Watanabe Koichi
Published: November 2022

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TWK10, a probiotic strain, has been demonstrated to improve exercise performance, regulate body composition, and ameliorate age-related declines. Here, we performed a comparative analysis of viable and heat-killed TWK10 in the regulation of exercise performance, body composition, and gut microbiota in humans. Healthy adults (n = 53) were randomly divided into three groups: Control, TWK10 (viable TWK10, 3 × 1011 colony forming units/day), and TWK10-hk (heat-killed TWK10, 3 × 1011 cells/day) groups. After six-week administration, both the TWK10 and TWK10-hk groups had significantly improved exercise performance and fatigue-associated features and reduced exercise-induced inflammation, compared with controls. Viable TWK10 significantly promoted improved body composition, by increasing muscle mass proportion and reducing fat mass. Gut microbiota analysis demonstrated significantly increasing trends in the relative abundances of Akkermansiaceae and Prevotellaceae in subjects receiving viable TWK10. Predictive metagenomic profiling revealed that heat-killed TWK10 administration significantly enhanced the signaling pathways involved in amino acid metabolisms, while glutathione metabolism, and ubiquinone and other terpenoid-quinone biosynthesis pathways were enriched by viable TWK10. In conclusion, viable and heat-killed TWK10 had similar effects in improving exercise performance and attenuating exercise-induced inflammatory responses as probiotics and postbiotics, respectively. Viable TWK10 was also highly effective in regulating body composition. The differences in efficacy between viable and heat-killed TWK10 may be due to differential impacts in shaping gut microbiota.
Occurrence of Chlamydia spp. in Conjunctival Samples of Stray Cats in Timișoara Municipality, Western Romania
Authors: Tîrziu Andreea , Herman Viorel , Imre Kálmán , Degi Diana Maria , Boldea Marius , Florin Vlad , Bochiș Timea Andrea , Adela Marcu , Degi János
Published: November 2022

Despite the widespread public health concern about stray cats serving as reservoirs for zoonotic agents, little is known about the effect of urban and peri-urban landscapes on exposure risk. We conducted this study to monitor the presence of Chlamydia spp. in stray cats, with or without conjunctivitis, living in Timișoara Municipality, Western Romania, using staining and PCR methods. A total of 95 cats were enrolled, and conjunctival samples were harvested from 68 clinically healthy cats and another 27 cats presenting with clinical signs of conjunctivitis. Overall, we found that 65.3% (62/95) of the cats tested positive for Chlamydia spp. by PCR. Chlamydia spp. were detected in 45/95 conjunctival samples using a standard Giemsa stain, compared with 62/95 using PCR (Cohen’s kappa index = 0.308; p = 0.0640). Of the cats that tested positive by PCR, 72.6% (45/62) were asymptomatic, and another 27.4% (17/62) expressed clinical signs of conjunctivitis. We found no significant difference between (p > 0.05) the distribution of infection and the recorded epidemiological data (sex, breed, age, territorial distribution, or sampling season). However, the Chlamydia spp. detection frequency was significantly higher in asymptomatic than in symptomatic cats (p = 0.0383). The obtained results increase the level of concern and awareness about the possible zoonotic potential of this pathogen and highlight that urban stray cats can be essential sources of feline chlamydiosis.
Surface Properties of Saponin—Chitosan Mixtures
Authors: Krzan Marcel , Rey Natalia García , Jarek Ewelina , Czakaj Agnieszka , Santini Eva , Ravera Francesca , Liggieri Libero , Warszynski Piotr , Braunschweig Björn
Published: November 2022

The surface properties of saponin and saponin-chitosan mixtures were analysed as a function of their bulk mixing ratio using vibrational sum-frequency generation (SFG), surface tensiometry and dilational rheology measurements. Our experiments show that saponin-chitosan mixtures present some remarkable properties, such as a strong amphiphilicity of the saponin and high dilational viscoelasticity. We believe this points to the presence of chitosan in the adsorption layer, despite its complete lack of surface activity. We explain this phenomenon by electrostatic interactions between the saponin as an anionic surfactant and chitosan as a polycation, leading to surface-active saponin-chitosan complexes and aggregates. Analysing the SFG intensity of the O-H stretching bands from interfacial water molecules, we found that in the case of pH 3.4 for a mixture consisting of 0.1 g/L saponin and 0.001 g/L chitosan, the adsorption layer was electrically neutral. This conclusion from SFG spectra is corroborated by results from surface tensiometry showing a significant reduction in surface tension and effects on the dilational surface elasticity strictly at saponin/chitosan ratios, where SFG spectra indicate zero net charge at the air–water interface.
Parkia platycephala Lectin (PPL) Inhibits Orofacial Nociception Responses via TRPV1 Modulation
Authors: de Oliveira Leite Gerlânia , Santos Sacha Aubrey Alves Rodrigues , dos Santos Silva Romério Rodrigues , Teixeira Claudener Souza , Campos Adriana Rolim
Published: November 2022

Lectins are a heterogeneous group of proteins that reversibly bind to simple sugars or complex carbohydrates. The plant lectin purified from the seed of Parkia platycephala (PPL) was studied. This study aimed to investigate the possible orofacial antinociceptive of PPL lectin in adult zebrafish and rodents. Acute nociception was induced by cinnamaldehyde (0.66 μg/mL), 0.1% acidified saline, glutamate (12.5 µM) or hypertonic saline (5 M NaCl) applied into the upper lip (5.0 µL) of adult wild zebrafish. Zebrafish were pretreated by intraperitoneal injection (20 µL) with vehicle (Control) or PPL (0.025; 0.05 or 0.1 mg/mL) 30 min before induction. The effect of PPL on zebrafish locomotor behaviour was evaluated in the open field test. Naive groups were included in all tests. In one experiment, animals were pre-treated with capsazepine to investigate the mechanism of antinociception. The involvement of central afferent C-fibres was also investigated. In another experiment, rats pre-treated with PPL or saline were submitted to the temporomandibular joint formalin test. Other groups of rats were submitted to infraorbital nerve transection to induce chronic pain, followed by induction of mechanical sensitivity using von Frey. PPL reduced nociceptive behaviour in adult zebrafish, and this is related to the activation of the TRPV1 channels since antinociception was effectively inhibited by capsazepine and by capsaicin-induced desensitization. PPL reduced nociceptive behaviour associated with temporomandibular joint and neuropathic pain. The results confirm the potential pharmacological relevance of PPL as an inhibitor of orofacial nociception in acute and chronic pain.
Insight into the Inhibitory Mechanism of Aryl Formyl Piperidine Derivatives on Monoacylglycerol Lipase through Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Liu Chang , Guan Shanshan , E Jingwen , Yang Zhijie , Zhang Xinyue , Ju Jianan , Wang Song , Zhang Hao
Published: November 2022

Monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) can regulate the endocannabinoid system and thus becomes a target of antidepressant drugs. In this paper, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations, combined with binding free energy calculation, were employed to investigate the inhibitory mechanism and binding modes of four aryl formyl piperidine derivative inhibitors with different 1-substituents to MAGL. The results showed that in the four systems, the main four regions where the enzyme bound to the inhibitor included around the head aromatic ring, the head carbonyl oxygen, the tail amide bond, and the tail benzene ring. The significant conformational changes in the more flexible lid domain of the enzyme were caused by 1-substituted group differences of inhibitors and resulted in different degrees of flipping in the tail of the inhibitor. The flipping led to a different direction of the tail amide bond and made a greater variation in its interaction with some of the charged residues in the enzyme, which further contributed to a different swing of the tail benzene ring. If the swing is large enough, it can weaken the binding strength of the head carbonyl oxygen to its nearby residues, and even the whole inhibitor with the enzyme so that the inhibition decreases.
Phenolic Compounds in Active Packaging and Edible Films/Coatings: Natural Bioactive Molecules and Novel Packaging Ingredients
Authors: Singh Ajit Kumar , Kim Jae Young , Lee Youn Suk
Published: November 2022

In recent years, changing lifestyles and food consumption patterns have driven demands for high-quality, ready-to-eat food products that are fresh, clean, minimally processed, and have extended shelf lives. This demand sparked research into the creation of novel tools and ingredients for modern packaging systems. The use of phenolic-compound-based active-packaging and edible films/coatings with antimicrobial and antioxidant activities is an innovative approach that has gained widespread attention worldwide. As phenolic compounds are natural bioactive molecules that are present in a wide range of foods, such as fruits, vegetables, herbs, oils, spices, tea, chocolate, and wine, as well as agricultural waste and industrial byproducts, their utilization in the development of packaging materials can lead to improvements in the oxidative status and antimicrobial properties of food products. This paper reviews recent trends in the use of phenolic compounds as potential ingredients in food packaging, particularly for the development of phenolic compounds-based active packaging and edible films. Moreover, the applications and modes-of-action of phenolic compounds as well as their advantages, limitations, and challenges are discussed to highlight their novelty and efficacy in enhancing the quality and shelf life of food products.
Synthesis and Spectroscopic Characterization of Selected Phenothiazines and Phenazines Rationalized Based on DFT Calculation
Authors: Swoboda Daniel , Nycz Jacek E. , Karaush-Karmazin Nataliya , Minaev Boris , Książek Maria , Kusz Joachim , Podsiadły Radosław
Published: November 2022

Two unique structures were isolated from the phosphorylation reaction of 10H-phenothiazine. The 5,5-dimethyl-2-(10H-phenothiazin-10-yl)-1,3,2-dioxaphosphinane 2-oxide (2a) illustrates the product of N-phosphorylation of phenothiazine. Moreover, a potential product of 2a instability, a thiophosphoric acid 2b, was successfully isolated and structurally characterized. Molecule 2a, similarly to sulfoxide derivative 3, possesses interesting phosphorescence properties due to the presence of d-pπ bonds. The X-ray, NMR, and DFT computational studies indicate that compound 2a exhibits an anomeric effect. Additionally, the syntheses of selected symmetrical and unsymmetrical pyridine-embedded phenazines were elaborated. To compare the influence of phosphorus and sulfur atoms on the structural characteristics of 10H-phenothiazine derivatives, the high-quality crystals of (4a,12a-dihydro-12H-benzo[5,6][1,4]thiazino[2,3-b]quinoxalin-12-yl)(phenyl)methanone (1) and selected phenazines 5,12-diisopropyl-3,10-dimethyldipyrido[3,2-a:3′,2′-h]phenazine (5) and 5-isopropyl-N,N,3-trimethylpyrido[3,2-a]phenazin-10-amine (6a) were obtained. The structures of molecules 1, 2a, 2-mercapto-5,5-dimethyl-1,3,2-dioxaphosphinane 2-oxide (2b), 3,7-dinitro-10H-phenothiazine 5-oxide (3), 5 and 6a were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction measurements.
Tabersonine Inhibits the Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Neuroinflammatory Response in BV2 Microglia Cells via the NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Shi Jiaotai , Wang Chengbo , Sang Chunyan , Nsanzamahoro Stanislas , Chai Tian , Wang Jun , Yang Aimei , Yang Junli
Published: November 2022

The occurrence and development of neurodegenerative diseases is related to a variety of physiological and pathological changes. Neuroinflammation is one of the major factors that induces and aggravates neurodegenerative diseases. The most important manifestation of neuroinflammation is the activation of microglia. Therefore, inhibiting the abnormal activation of microglia is an important way to alleviate the occurrence of neuroinflammatory diseases. In this research, the inhibitory effect of tabersonine (Tab) on neuroinflammation was evaluated by establishing the BV2 neuroinflammation model induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). It was found that Tab significantly inhibited the production and expression of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in BV-2 cells stimulated by LPS. In addition, Tab can also inhibit the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) induced by LPS, thus regulating inflammatory mediators such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). These results indicated that Tab regulated the release of inflammatory mediators such as NO, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 by inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathway, and exerting its anti-neuroinflammatory effect. This is the first report regarding the inhibition on LPS-induced neuroinflammation in BV2 microglia cells of Tab, which indicated the drug development potential of Tab for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Progress in the Preclinical and Clinical Study of Resveratrol for Vascular Metabolic Disease
Authors: Fan Dongxiao , Liu Chenshu , Zhang Zhongyu , Huang Kan , Wang Tengyao , Chen Sifan , Li Zilun
Published: November 2022

Vascular metabolic dysfunction presents in various diseases, such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. Due to the high prevalence of these diseases, it is important to explore treatment strategies to protect vascular function. Resveratrol (RSV), a natural polyphenolic phytochemical, is regarded as an agent to regulate metabolic pathways. Many studies have proven that RSV has beneficial effects on improving metabolism in endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), which provide new directions to treat vascular metabolic diseases. Herein, we overviewed that RSV could regulate cell metabolism activity by inhibiting glucose uptake, suppressing glycolysis, preventing cells from fatty acid-related damages, reducing lipogenesis, increasing fatty acid oxidation, enhancing lipolysis, elevating uptake and synthesis of glutamine, and increasing NO release. Furthermore, in clinical trials, although the results from different studies remain controversial, we proposed that RSV had better therapeutic effects at high concentrations and for patients with metabolic disorders.
Combination of Spray-Chilling and Spray-Drying Techniques to Protect Carotenoid-Rich Extracts from Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) Byproducts, Aiming at the Production of a Powdered Natural Food Dye
Authors: de Lima Priscilla Magalhães , Dacanal Gustavo César , Pinho Lorena Silva , de Sá Samuel Henrique Gomes , Thomazini Marcelo , Favaro-Trindade Carmen Sílvia
Published: November 2022

Reducing waste, using byproducts, and natural food additives are important sustainability trends. In this context, the aim of this study was to produce and evaluate a natural food dye, extracted from pumpkin byproducts, powdered and protected by spray-chilling (SC) and a combination of spray-drying and spray-chilling techniques (SDC). The extract was obtained using ethanol as solvent; vegetable fat and gum Arabic were used as carriers. Formulations were prepared with the following core:carrier ratios: SC 20 (20:80), SC 30 (30:70), SC 40 (40:60), SDC 5 (5:95), SDC 10 (10:90), and SDC 15 (15:85). The physicochemical properties of the formed microparticles were characterised, and their storage stability was evaluated over 90 days. The microparticles exhibited colour variation and size increase over time. SDC particles exhibited the highest encapsulation efficiency (95.2–100.8%) and retention of carotenoids in the storage period (60.8–89.7%). Considering the carotenoid content and its stability, the optimal formulation for each process was selected for further analysis. All of the processes and formulations produced spherical particles that were heterogeneous in size. SDC particles exhibited the highest oxidative stability index and the highest carotenoid release in the intestinal phase (32.6%). The use of combined microencapsulation technologies should be considered promising to protect carotenoid compounds.
Synthesis of Nanosilica for the Removal of Multicomponent Cd2+ and Cu2+ from Synthetic Water: An Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Al-Saida Basel , Sandouqa Arwa , Shawabkeh Reyad A. , Hussein Ibnelwaleed
Published: November 2022

Copper and cadmium ions are among the top 120 hazardous chemicals listed by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) that can bind to organic and inorganic chemicals. Silica is one of the most abundant oxides that can limit the transport of these chemicals into water resources. Limited work has focused on assessing the applicability of nanosilica for the removal of multicomponent metal ions and studying their interaction on the surface of this adsorbent. Therefore, this study focuses on utilizing a nanosilica for the adsorption of Cd2+ and Cu2+ from water. Experimental work on the single- and multi-component adsorption of these ions was conducted and supported with theoretical interpretations. The nanosilica was characterized by its surface area, morphology, crystallinity, and functional groups. The BET surface area was 307.64 m2/g with a total pore volume of 4.95×10−3 cm3/g. The SEM showed an irregular amorphous shape with slits and cavities. Several Si–O–Si and hydroxyl groups were noticed on the surface of the silica. The single isotherm experiment showed that Cd2+ has a higher uptake (72.13 mg/g) than Cu2+ (29.28 mg/g). The multicomponent adsorption equilibrium shows an affinity for Cd2+ on the surface. This affinity decreases with increasing Cu2+ equilibrium concentration due to the higher isosteric heat from the interaction between Cd and the surface. The experimental data were modeled using isotherms for the single adsorption, with the Freundlich and the non-modified competitive Langmuir models showing the best fit. The molecular dynamics simulations support the experimental data where Cd2+ shows a multilayer surface coverage. This study provides insight into utilizing nanosilica for removing heavy metals from water.
Phytochemical Analysis and Anti-Cancer Properties of Extracts of Centaurea castriferrei Borbás & Waisb Genus of Centaurea L
Authors: Kubik Joanna , Waszak Łukasz , Adamczuk Grzegorz , Humeniuk Ewelina , Iwan Magdalena , Adamczuk Kamila , Michalczuk Mariola , Korga-Plewko Agnieszka , Józefczyk Aleksandra
Published: November 2022

The Centaurea L. (Asteraceae) genus includes many plant species with therapeutic properties. Centaurea castriferrei Borbás & Waisb is one of the least known and least described plants of this genus. The aim of the study was the phytochemical analysis of water and methanol–water extracts (7:3 v/v) obtained from the aerial parts of the plant as well as evaluation of their anticancer activity. Quantitative determinations of phenolic compounds and flavonoids were performed, and the antioxidant potential was measured using the CUPRAC method. The RP-HPLC/DAD analysis and HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS mass spectroscopy were performed, to determine the extracts’ composition. The antiproliferative activity of the obtained extracts was tested in thirteen cancer cell lines and normal skin fibroblasts using MTT test. Regardless of the extraction method and the extractant used, similar cytotoxicity of the extracts on most cancer cell lines was observed. However, the methanol–water extracts (7:3 v/v) contained significantly more phenolic compounds and flavonoids as well as showing stronger antioxidant properties in comparison to water extracts. Centaurea castriferrei Borbás & Waisb is a rich source of apigenin and its derivatives. In all tested extracts, chlorogenic acid and centaurein were also identified. In vitro research revealed that this plant may be a potential source of compounds with anticancer activity.
Dimethylammonium Cation-Induced 1D/3D Heterostructure for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhou Xianfang , Ge Chuangye , Liang Xiao , Wang Fei , Duan Dawei , Lin Haoran , Zhu Quanyao , Hu Hanlin
Published: November 2022

Mixed-dimensional perovskite engineering has been demonstrated as a simple and useful approach to achieving highly efficient and more-durable perovskite solar cells (PSCs), which have attracted increasing research interests worldwide. In this work, 1D/3D mixed-dimensional perovskite has been successfully obtained by introducing DMAI via a two-step deposition method. The additive DMA+ can facilitate the crystalline growth and form 1D DMAPbI3 at grain boundaries of 3D perovskite, leading to improved morphology, longer charge carrier lifetime, and remarkably reduced bulk trap density for perovskite films. Meanwhile, the presence of low-dimension perovskite is able to prevent the intrusion of moisture, resulting in enhanced long-term stability. As a result, the PSCs incorporated with 1D DMAPbI3 exhibited a first-class power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 21.43% and maintained 85% of their initial efficiency after storage under ambient conditions with ~45% RH for 1000 h.