bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Analysis of Characteristics and Synoptic Backgrounds of Extreme Heat Events over Two Urban Agglomerations in Southeast China
Authors: Sun Xiaoyan , Gao Xiaoyu , Luo Yali , Wong Wai-Kin , Xu Haiming
Published: December 2022

Based on high-resolution surface observation and reanalysis data, this paper analyzes the extreme heat events (EHEs) over two densely populated urban agglomerations in southeast China, namely the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) and the Pearl River Delta (PRD), including the spatial–temporal distribution of heatwaves and warm nights and the synoptic backgrounds for regional heatwaves. The results show that the occurrence frequency of EHEs is modulated significantly by local underlying features (i.e., land–sea contrast, terrain), and the strong nocturnal urban heat island effects make warm nights much more likely to occur in cities than rural areas during heatwaves. About 80% of the YRD regional heatwaves occur from 15 July to 15 August, while a lower fraction (53%) of the PRD heatwaves is found during this mid-summer period, which partially explains the warm-season average intensity of the former being 2–3 times the latter. A persistent, profound subtropical high is the dominant synoptic system responsible for the mid-summer YRD heatwaves, which forces significant descending motion leading to long-duration sunny weather. The mid-summer PRD heatwaves involve both high-pressure systems and tropical cyclones (TCs). A TC is present to the east of the PRD region on most (about 72%) PRD heatwave days. The organized northerly winds in the planetary boundary layer in the outer circulation of the TC transport the inland warm air, which is heated by the foehn effect at the lee side of the Nanling Mountains and possibly also the surface sensible heat flux, towards the PRD region, leading to the occurrence of the extremely high temperatures.
The Biological Activity of Illicium verum (Star Anise) on Lernaea cyprinacea-Infested Carassius auratus (Goldfish): In Vivo Study
Authors: Attia Marwa M. , Alzahrani Amal M. , Hanna Magdy I. , Salem Heba M. , Abourehab Mohammed A. S. , El-Saadony Mohamed T. , Thabit Hasnaa
Published: December 2022

Lernaea cyprinacea infestation is considered a serious economic problem in the fish market. An assessment to control this parasite is needed to manage this problem. The Illicium verum oil extract has considerable antioxidant activity and scavenges 96.22% of free radicals; the high antioxidant activity refers to the phenolic content presence. The extract contains minerals, especially K, fibers, and dry matter. So, the Illicium verum ingredients were tested against this copepod for in vitro and in vivo investigation with the assessment of the treatment trial using a scanning electron microscope and evaluating the change in different immunological genes in goldfish. Female parasitic L. cyprinacea worms were blackish and hairy. The in vitro study on L. cyprinacea adults using star anise revealed that the LC50 was 12.5 and 25 μg/mL for 2 and 1 h exposure periods, respectively. Interleukin (IL-1β) and IL-6 were grossly upregulated in C. auratus-infested skin by L. cyprinacea after treatment by 1 week, then declined after 3 weeks. In contrast, TNF-α was 18 folds upregulated in the first week after treatment, with a decline after 3 weeks. In conclusion, star anise is recommended as a safe and economical agent for controlling L. cyprinacea infestation in fish.
Tuning Cu-Content La1−xSrxNi1−yCuyO3−δ with Strontium Doping as Cobalt-Free Cathode Materials for High-Performance Anode-Supported IT-SOFCs
Authors: Lach Jakub , Zheng Kun , Kluczowski Ryszard , Niemczyk Anna , Zhao Hailei , Chen Min
Published: December 2022

Cu-content La1−xSrxNi1−yCuyO3−δ perovskites with A-site strontium doping have been tuned as cobalt-free cathode materials for high-performance anode-supported SOFCs, working at an intermediate-temperature range. All obtained oxides belong to the R-3c trigonal system, and phase transitions from the R-3c space group to a Pm-3m simple perovskite have been observed by HT-XRD studies. The substitution of lanthanum with strontium lowers the phase transition temperature, while increasing the thermal expansion coefficient (TEC) and oxygen non-stoichiometry δ of the studied materials. The thermal expansion is anisotropic, and TEC values are similar to commonly used solid electrolytes (e.g., 14.1 × 10−6 K−1 for La0.95Sr0.05Ni0.5Cu0.5O3−δ). The oxygen content of investigated compounds has been determined as a function of temperature. All studied materials are chemically compatible with GDC-10 but react with LSGM and 8YSZ electrolytes. The anode-supported SOFC with a La0.95Sr0.05Ni0.5Cu0.5O3−δ cathode presents an excellent power density of 445 mW·cm−2 at 650 °C in humidified H2. The results indicate that La1−xSrxNi1−yCuyO3−δ perovskites with strontium doping at the A-site can be qualified as promising cathode candidates for anode-supported SOFCs, yielding promising electrochemical performance in the intermediate-temperature range.
Compression Strength of PLA Bolts Produced via FDM
Authors: Kukla Mateusz , Sieracki Igor , Maliga Wojciech , Górecki Jan
Published: December 2022

The aim of this research was to define the compression strength of polylactic acid bolts produced using the fused deposition modelling method. In accomplishing this, static and cyclic compression tests for different metric thread sizes were carried out in accordance with ISO 4014. Tests were conducted on M42, M48, M56, M60, and M64 threads, while samples with three different types of pitch—one nominal and two fine threads—were prepared for each diameter. Standard ISO 604 for defining the compression modulus Ec was implemented as the test basis. Accordingly, the mean compression modulus value Ec for all measurements was 917.79 ± 184.99 MPa. Cyclic compression tests were then carried out on samples with the M64 × 4 thread. Fifty thread loading cycles were carried out for each variant to obtained different strain amplitude values and strain frequencies. Our work indicated that the values of the storage modulus defined in cyclic tests E′ increased, while the values of the loss modulus E″ decreased when the value of the strain frequency increased. We found it not possible to determine the nature of the changes in the value of the storage modulus E′ in the function of the strain amplitude. We did, however, observe an increase in the value of the loss modulus E″, together with the increase in the tested range of the strain amplitude. The determined mechanical values can be therefore be used for designing threaded connections made of polylactic acid using the fused deposition modelling method.
Microstructure and Texture Characterization of Duplex Stainless Steel Joints Welded by Alternating Magnetic Field-Assisted Hybrid Laser-GMAW Welding
Authors: Fu Juan , Rao Zhipeng , Zhao Yong , Zou Jiasheng , Liu Xin , Pan Yanfei
Published: December 2022

In this study, 2205 duplex stainless steel with 12 mm thickness was welded by alternating magnetic field-assisted laser arc hybrid welding. The effect of an alternating magnetic field on the proportion distribution of two phases of the welded joint was investigated. The texture distribution, grain boundary misorientation, and grain size of welded joints were analyzed and characterized. The uniform distribution of alloying elements in the two phases was improved by a 20 mT alternating magnetic field. The diffusion dissolution of Ni and N elements into the γ phase was promoted, which was conducive to the transition from the α to γ phase and reduced the precipitation of Cr2N, such that the ratio of γ to α was 43.4:56.6. The ratio of the two phases of the weld was balanced by the alternating magnetic field of 30 mT, such that the ratio of γ and α was 44.6:55.4 and the texture dispersion was weakened. The Σ3 twinning boundary of the austenite phase in the weld was transformed to HABs, the ferrite phase underwent dynamic recrystallization, and the austenite phase had a cube texture, copper texture, and goss texture.
Charge Distribution in Layered Lanthanide-Doped CuCr0.99Ln0.01S2 (Ln = Pr–Tb) Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Korotaev Evgeniy V. , Syrokvashin Mikhail M. , Filatova Irina Yu. , Sotnikov Aleksandr V. , Kalinkin Alexandr V.
Published: December 2022

The charge distribution study of metal atoms in CuCr0.99Ln0.01S2 (Ln = Pr–Tb) solid solutions was carried out using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The analysis of the binding energy of S2p, Cu2p, Cr2p, Ln3d and Ln4d levels allows one to determine the oxidation state of atoms. Copper atoms were found to be monovalent. Chromium and lanthanide atoms were found to be in the trivalent state. Sulfur atoms were found to be in the divalent state. Cationic substitution was found to occur via an isovalent mechanism of Cr3+ to Ln3+. The obtained results were used for the interpretation of the Seebeck coefficient increase for CuCr0.99Ln0.01S2 solid solutions in contrast to the initial CuCrS2 matrix. The largest Seebeck coefficient values of 142 and 148 µV/K were observed at 500 K for CuCr0.99Sm0.01S2 and CuCr0.99Pr0.01S2, respectively. The obtained values are 1.4 times greater in comparison with those for the initial matrix (105 µV/K).
Preparation and Characterization of In Situ (TiC-TiB2)/Al-Cu-Mg-Si Composites with High Strength and Wear Resistance
Authors: Gao Yu-Yang , Liu Ying , Li Yuan-Lin , Zhang Ang , Teng Hang , Dong Zhi-Hua , Li Tian , Jiang Bin
Published: December 2022

This study involved the preparation and characterization of in situ (TiC-TiB2)/Al-4.7Cu-0.32Mg-0.44Si composites with excellent mechanical and abrasive wear properties. The composites were synthesized in an Al-Ti-B4C system by combining combustion reaction synthesis with hot-pressed sintering and hot extrusion. The in situ TiB2 and TiC particles were of multi-scaled sizes ranging from 20 nm to 1.3 μm. The TiB2 and TiC particles effectively increased the yield strength (σ0.2), ultimate tensile strength (σUTS), hardness (HV), and abrasive wear resistance of the composites. The 40 wt.% (TiC-TiB2)/Al-4.7Cu-0.32Mg-0.44Si composite exhibited the highest σ0.2 (569 MPa), σUTS (704 MPa) and hardness (286 HV), which were 74%, 51% and 110% higher than those of the matrix alloy, respectively. Compared with the matrix alloy, the abrasive wear resistance of the 40 wt.% (TiC-TiB2)/Al-4.7Cu-0.32Mg-0.44Si composite was increased by 4.17 times under an applied load of 5 N and Al2O3 abrasive particle size of 13 µm. Micro-ploughing and micro-cutting were the main abrasive wear mechanisms for the Al-Cu-Mg-Si alloy and the composites.
A Review of Axial-Flux Permanent-Magnet Motors: Topological Structures, Design, Optimization and Control Techniques
Authors: Hao Zhuo , Ma Yangyang , Wang Pengyu , Luo Geng , Chen Yisong
Published: December 2022

Axial-flux permanent-magnet (AFPM) motors are a kind of important motor with compact structure, high power density and high torque density. In this review, the progress of AFPM motors and their key technologies are analyzed and described, with emphasis on the topological structures, design and optimization methods and control techniques. Based on these analyses, the main findings of the review are the following: (1) the yokeless and segment armature (YASA)-type motors have great potential for development; (2) the multi-objective optimization design theories can be integrated and applied to optimize the design of AFPM motors; and (3) optimal control and sensorless control have important value in improving system reliability and reducing cost. Finally, highlights and prospects are provided for further advancing AFPM motors.
Expanding the Frontiers of Industrial Robots beyond Factories: Design and in the Wild Validation
Authors: Capy Siméon , Rincon Liz , Coronado Enrique , Hagane Shohei , Yamaguchi Seiji , Leve Victor , Kawasumi Yuichiro , Kudou Yasutoshi , Venture Gentiane
Published: December 2022

Robots able to coexist and interact with humans are key elements for Society 5.0. To produce the right expectations towards robots, it will be necessary to expose the true current capabilities of robots to the general public. In this context, Human–Robot Interaction (HRI) in the wild emerges as a relevant paradigm. In this article, we affront the challenge of bringing an industrial robot (NEXTAGE Open) outside factories and laboratories to be used in a public setting. We designed a multi-modal interactive scenario that integrates state-of-the-art sensory devices, deep learning methods for perception, and a human–machine graphical interface that monitors the system and provides useful information to participants. The main objective of the presented work is to build a robust and fully autonomous robotic system able to: (1) share the same space as humans, (2) work in a public and crowded space, and (3) provide an intuitive and engaging experience for a robotic exposition. In addition, we measured the attitudes, perceptions, expectations, and emotional reactions of volunteers. Results suggest that participants considered our proposed scenario as enjoyable, safe, interesting, and clear. Those points are also the main concerns of participants about sharing workspaces of daily environments with robots. However, we can point out some limitations with a biased population mainly composed of Japanese and males. In future work, we will improve our scenario with non-functional features or emotional expressions from the robot.
Mechanism Design and Experimental Verification of Novel Automatic Balance Equipment for a Rope-Type Elevator
Authors: Qin Zhen , Wu Yuting , Cong Jianchen , Lyu Sung-Ki
Published: December 2022

Multi-rope elevators are widely used in modern buildings. However, problems such as vibration, noise, uneven wear of key components and shortened life caused by the uneven distribution of rope tensions are still unsolved in the elevator industry. In order to balance the different tensions and the axial deformation of each rope, a novel automatic balance equipment for rope-type elevators (NABE-RE) is proposed in this article. Simulations based on the Simscape numerical methodology are used to verify the kinematic rationality of the proposed mechanism. The optimal structural stability of the core components is evaluated through a series of investigations based on the finite element method. Additionally, the manufactured prototypes are put through a series of comparison experiments to evaluate their tension balancing performance. The results show that the unbalance rate of the system is effectively limited to a low level, thus verifying the feasibility of the automatic tension balancing function of the proposed NABE-RE.
An Elaborate Dynamic Model of the Dual-Motor Precision Transmission Mechanism for Performance Optimization
Authors: Zheng Jieji , Xie Xin , Tan Ruoyu , Chen Lingyu , Li Baoyu , Fan Dapeng
Published: December 2022

The dual-motor precision transmission mechanism (DMPTM) is an alternative way to eliminate backlash while ensuring the stiffness of the servo system. However, most of the established models of DMPTM are not accurate enough, and are not conducive to the optimization of system performance and the design of high-precision controllers. In this paper, based on the detailed linear model of the single components of the DMPTM, the dead-zone model, considering the time-varying stiffness, is proposed to describe the backlash of the two transmission chains, and the friction of the mechanism is depicted by the Stribeck model. Then, a high-precision dynamic model of the DMPTM is formed. Finally, the model validation experiments for the open-loop and closed-loop are carried out in the time domain and frequency domain. The experimental results show that the proposed model can accurately describe the nonlinear characteristics of the mechanism. The Pearson correlation coefficient between the proposed model and the actual system is ropen-loop > 99.41%, for the open-loop, and rclosed-loop > 83.7%, for the closed-loop, and these results are both better than those of the existing model. In the frequency domain, whether it is the open-loop or closed-loop model, the frequency response of the proposed model also reproduces the actual system well, which verifies the accuracy of the model.
Towards a New Mindset for Interaction Design—Understanding Prerequisites for Successful Human–Machine Cooperation Using the Example of Food Production
Authors: Pohl Rica , Oehm Lukas
Published: December 2022

Advances in technology and digitalization offer huge potential for improving the performance of production systems. However, human limitations often function as an obstacle in realizing these improvements. This article argues that the discrepancy between potential and reality is caused by design features of technologies, also called ironies of automation. To this, the psychological mechanisms that cause these ironies are illustrated by the example of operators of a chocolate wrapping machine, and their effect is explained by basic theories of engineering psychology. This article concludes that engineers need to understand these basic theories and interdisciplinary teamwork is necessary to improve the design of digital technologies and enable harmonious, high-performance human–machine cooperation.
Quasi-Stable, Non-Magnetic, Toroidal Fluid Droplets in a Ferrofluid with Annular Magnetic Field
Authors: Radcliffe Alastair
Published: December 2022

A relatively stable, non-magnetic, torus-shaped fluid droplet within a linearly magnetizable surrounding ferrofluid medium, and subject to the annular magnetic field induced by an electric current in a wire passing perpendicularly through its centre, has been found through the use of coupled finite element/boundary element computer simulations.
A Two-Dimensional port-Hamiltonian Model for Coupled Heat Transfer
Authors: Jäschke Jens , Ehrhardt Matthias , Günther Michael , Jacob Birgit
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we construct a highly simplified mathematical model for studying the problem of conjugate heat transfer in gas turbine blades and their cooling ducts. Our simple model focuses on the relevant coupling structures and aims to reduce the unrelated complexity as much as possible. Then, we apply the port-Hamiltonian formalism to this model and its subsystems and investigate the interconnections. Finally, we apply a simple spatial discretization to the system to investigate the properties of the resulting finite-dimensional port-Hamiltonian system and to determine whether the order of coupling and discretization affect the resulting semi-discrete system.
Numerical Investigation of MWCNT and SWCNT Fluid Flow along with the Activation Energy Effects over Quartic Auto Catalytic Endothermic and Exothermic Chemical Reactions
Authors: Mehmood Yasir , Shafqat Ramsha , Sarris Ioannis E. , Bilal Muhammad , Sajid Tanveer , Akhtar Tasneem
Published: December 2022

A mathematical model is created to analyze the impact of Thompson and Troian slip boundaries over a contracting/expanding surface sustaining nanofluid-containing carbon nanotubes along a stagnation point flow. Both multi-wall (MWCNTs) and single-wall (SWCNTs) carbon nanotubes are taken into consideration, with water serving as the base liquid. The flow is obtained due to the stretching or contracting of the surface. The thermal radiation, activation energy, buoyancy impacts, and chemical processes called quartic autocatalysis are additionally added to the original mathematical model. The MATLAB-constructed bvp4c function involving the three-stage Lobatto IIIa formula for the numerical results of dimensionless velocity, concentration, and temperature profiles are used. By contrasting it against a published paper in this limited instance, it is determined whether the suggested mathematical model is legitimate. In this sense, a remarkable consensus is achieved. Graphical representations are used to depict the behavior of many non-dimensional flow variables, such as the slip velocity parameter, the inertia coefficient, the porosity parameter, and the solid volume fraction. Surface drag force computations are reported to examine the effects at the permeable stretching surface. It has been shown that increasing the slip velocity factor increases the fluid streaming velocity while decreasing the surface drag force. If the endothermic/exothermic coefficient increases, the local thermal transfer efficiency falls. For nanofluids, the changing viscosity factor increases axial velocity while decreasing temperature distribution. Additionally, the solid volumetric fraction improves the temperature distributions by lowering the concentration profile and speed.
Intelligent Prediction of Maximum Ground Settlement Induced by EPB Shield Tunneling Using Automated Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Hussaine Syed Mujtaba , Mu Linlong
Published: December 2022

Predicting the maximum ground subsidence (Smax) in the construction of soil pressure balanced shield tunnel, particularly on soft foundation soils, is essential for safe operation and to minimize the possible risk of damage in urban areas. Although some research has been done, this issue has not been solved because of its complexity and many other influencing factors. Due to the increasing accuracy of machine learning (ML) in predicting surface deformation of shield tunneling and the development of automated machine learning (AutoML) technology. In the study, different ML prediction models were constructed using an open source AutoML framework. The prediction model was trained by the dataset, which contains 14 input parameters and an output (i.e., Smax). Different AutoML frameworks were employed to compare their validities and efficiencies. The performance of the model is estimated by contrasting the prediction accuracy parameters, including root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE) and determinant coefficient (R2).With a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.808, MAE of 3.7, and RMSE of 5.2 on the testing dataset, the best prediction model i.e., extra tree regressor showed better performance, proving that our model has advantages in predicting Smax. Furthermore, the SHAP analysis reveal that the soil type (ST), torque (To), cover depth (H), groundwater level (GW), and tunneling deviation have a significant effect on Smax compared to other model inputs.
Reduce-Order Modeling and Higher Order Numerical Solutions for Unsteady Flow and Heat Transfer in Boundary Layer with Internal Heating
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Safdar Muhammad , Taj Safia , Zafar Amad , Ali Muhammad Umair , Lee Seung Won
Published: December 2022

We obtain similarity transformations to reduce a system of partial differential equations representing the unsteady fluid flow and heat transfer in a boundary layer with heat generation/absorption using Lie symmetry algebra. There exist seven Lie symmetries for this system of differential equations having three independent and three dependent variables. We use these Lie symmetries for the reduced-order modeling of the flow equations by constructing invariants corresponding to linear combinations of these Lie point symmetries. This procedure reduces one independent variable of the concerned fluid flow model when applied once. Double reductions are achieved by employing invariants twice that lead to ordinary differential equations with one independent and two dependent variables. Similarity transformations are constructed using these two sets of derived invariants corresponding to linear combinations of the Lie point symmetries. These similarity transformations have not been obtained earlier for this flow model. Moreover, the corresponding reduced systems of ordinary differential equations are different from those which exist in the literature for fluid flow and heat transfer that we have been dealing with. We obtain multiple similarity transformations which lead us to new classes of systems of ordinary differential equations. Accurate numerical solutions of these systems are obtained using the combination of an adaptive fourth-order Runge–Kutta method and shooting procedure. Effects of variation of unsteadiness parameter, Prandtl number and heat generation/absorption on fluid velocity, skin friction, surface temperature and heat flux are studied and presented with the help of tables and figures.
Monitoring of Linear Profiles Using Linear Mixed Model in the Presence of Measurement Errors
Authors: Liu Wenhui , Li Zhonghua , Wang Zhaojun
Published: December 2022

In the application of control charts, most of the research in profile monitoring is based on accurate measurements. Measurement errors, however, often exist in many manufacturing and service environments. In this paper, we apply linear mixed models in the presence of measurement errors in fixed effects. We discuss three modified multivariate charts, namely Hotelling’s T2, multivariate exponential weighted moving average (MEWMA) control chart, and multivariate cumulative sum (MCUSUM) control chart. Performance comparisons are made in terms of the average run length (ARL) and average extra quadratic loss (AEQL). Finally, a real data example on healthcare expenditures is used to illustrate the implementation of the proposed monitoring schemes.
Application of the Generalized Bessel Function to Two-Color Phase-of-the-Phase Spectroscopy
Authors: Huo Xunqin , Yang Weifeng , Jin Facheng , Ben Shuai , Song Xiaohong
Published: December 2022

In two-color strong field ionization of atoms, dynamical characteristics such as ionization rate and electron trajectory depend heavily on the relative phase of the strong fundamental field and its second harmonic. The phase-of-the-phase spectroscopy method reveals the oscillation of the photoelectron momentum distribution with the relative phase of the two-color field, and the relative phase contrast and its phase are usually obtained by the fitting process. Instead, we apply the generalized Bessel function to the strong field approximation and derive analytical expressions for the first- and second-order relative phase contrast and phase-of-the-phase spectra. Our analytical results are in good agreement with fitting-based ones, but calculating them is much less computationally intensive. We illustrate the advantage of using generalized Bessel functions in two-color phase-of-the-phase spectroscopy of argon.
Local Optima Network Analysis of Multi-Attribute Vehicle Routing Problems
Authors: Muñoz-Herrera Sebastián , Suchan Karol
Published: December 2022

Multi-Attribute Vehicle Routing Problems (MAVRP) are variants of Vehicle Routing Problems (VRP) in which, besides the original constraint on vehicle capacity present in Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem (CVRP), other attributes that model diverse real-life system characteristics are present. Among the most common attributes studied in the literature are vehicle capacity and route duration constraints. The influence of these restrictions on the overall structure of the problem and the performance of local search algorithms used to solve it has yet to be well known. This paper aims to explain the impact of constraints present in different variants of VRP through the alterations of the structure of the underlying search space that they cause. We focus on Local Optima Network Analysis (LONA) for multiple Traveling Salesman Problem (m-TSP) and VRP with vehicle capacity (CVRP), route duration (DVRP), and both (DCVRP) constraints. We present results that indicate that measures obtained for a sample of local optima provide valuable information on the behavior of the landscape under modifications in the problem’s constraints. Additionally, we use the LONA measures to explain the difficulty of VRP instances for solving by local search algorithms.
Analyzing the Banking Business: Relevance of Service Value for the Satisfaction and Loyalty of Consumers
Authors: Šević Aleksandar , Zečar Jelena , Nešić Tomašević Ana , Popović Šević Nevenka , Slijepčević Milica , Dudić Branislav
Published: December 2022

This research paper defines service value as the multidimensional overall user evaluation of the efficiency of a particular service in the context of the benefits they provide, measured through satisfaction and loyalty of consumers and, in this particular case, of entrepreneurs. By distributing a questionnaire comprising a set of descriptive questions and a five-point Likert scale, the authors managed to collect 281 valid responses from entrepreneurs in Serbia. Structural equation modelling was used to evaluate the impact of service value factors on satisfaction and, ultimately, loyalty. Following a confirmatory factor analysis, the authors found that quality, personal relationship, expediency, leadership, and perceived costs significantly impacted the bank users’ satisfaction, which is ultimately converted into lasting loyalty towards the dominant bank used in a daily routine or running personal business. Even though new forms of business are more and more focused on the individual and subjective attitude towards banking service, a large number of determinants still need to be identified. In this research, all hypotheses about the influencing factors were confirmed.
Indexing Inefficacy of Efforts to Stop Escalation of COVID Mortality
Authors: Shanmugam Ramalingam , Fulton Lawrence , Betancourt Jose , Pacheco Gerardo J.
Published: December 2022

Background: COVID-19 efforts were often ineffective in controlling the spread of the pandemic. Thus, identifying ineffective controls during a pandemic is vital. Method: Utilizing publicly available data on COVID deaths in the counties of US states, we created an index to capture and interpret ineffectiveness in the efforts to reduce the spread of the pandemic in US counties. This index is based on the Intervened Poisson Distribution (IPD) introduced originally by Shanmugam. Motivation for the research idea occurred when we noticed the data dispersion of the COVID deaths was smaller than the average only in some counties. Under-dispersed data is common in statistical modeling. A novel approach we adapted in this article includes the estimation of an intervention parameter estimated through iterative non-linear optimization. Results: Twenty-five counties in California, Idaho, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Texas, and Utah were found to be ineffective in controlling for fatalities based on the expected probability distribution. A review of the policies enacted in these areas would provide insight into ineffective prevention efforts, and some of these issues are documented in the current literature. Conclusions: The IPD index an innovate way to document efficacy of interventions during pandemics.
Anti-Infective Secondary Metabolites of the Marine Cyanobacterium Lyngbya Morphotype between 1979 and 2022
Authors: Youssef Diaa T. A. , Mufti Shatha J. , Badiab Abeer A. , Shaala Lamiaa A.
Published: December 2022

Cyanobacteria ascribed to the genus Lyngbya (Family Oscillatoriaceae) represent a potential therapeutic gold mine of chemically and biologically diverse natural products that exhibit a wide array of biological properties. Phylogenetic analyses have established the Lyngbya ‘morpho-type’ as a highly polyphyletic group and have resulted in taxonomic revision and description of an additional six new cyanobacterial genera in the same family to date. Among the most prolific marine cyanobacterial producers of biologically active compounds are the species Moorena producens (previously L. majuscula, then Moorea producens), M. bouillonii (previously L. bouillonii), and L. confervoides. Over the years, compounding evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies in support of the significant pharmaceutical potential of ‘Lyngbya’-derived natural products has made the Lyngbya morphotype a significant target for biomedical research and novel drug leads development. This comprehensive review covers compounds with reported anti-infective activities through 2022 from the Lyngbya morphotype, including new genera arising from recent phylogenetic re-classification. So far, 72 anti-infective secondary metabolites have been isolated from various Dapis, Lyngbya, Moorea, and Okeania species. These compounds showed significant antibacterial, antiparasitic, antifungal, antiviral and molluscicidal effects. Herein, a comprehensive literature review covering the natural source, chemical structure, and biological/pharmacological properties will be presented.
The Anti-Photoaging Activity of Peptides from Pinctada martensii Meat
Authors: Wei Mengfen , Qiu Huamai , Zhou Jie , Yang Chenghao , Chen Yifan , You Lijun
Published: December 2022

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet-B (UVB) can cause photoaging. Peptides from Pinctada martensii meat have been shown to have anti-photoaging activities, but their mechanism of action is rarely studied. In this study, Pinctada martensii meat hydrolysates (PME) were prepared by digestive enzymes and then separated by ultrafiltration and Sephadex G-25 gel filtration chromatography to obtain a purified fraction (G2). The fraction G2 was identified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), and peptide sequences were synthesized by solid-phase synthesis. The mechanism of anti-photoaging activities was investigated using a human immortalised epidermal (HaCaT) cell model. Results showed that peptides from Pinctada martensii meat increased UVB-induced cell viability and reduced the contents of interstitial collagenase (MMP-1) and matrix lysing enzyme (MMP-3) in HaCaT cells. Furthermore, the fraction of G2 significantly downregulated the expression of p38, EKR, JNK, MMP-1, and MMP-3 in HaCaT cells. The peptide sequences Phe-His (FH), Ala-Leu (AL), Met-Tyr (MY), Ala-Gly-Phe (AGF), and Ile-Tyr-Pro (IYP) were identified and synthesized. Besides, FH reduced the contents of MMP-1 and MMP-3 in HaCaT cells, combining them effectively in molecular docking analysis. Thus, peptides from Pinctada martensii meat showed anti-photoaging activities and might have the potential to be used as an anti-photoaging agent in functional foods.
Investigating Alumina-Silicate Bauxite and Phenol-Formaldehyde Resin Embedded TiH2 as Foaming Agents for Producing A356 Foam
Authors: Vasfpour Ramin , Mirbagheri Seyed Mohammad H.
Published: December 2022

The melt foaming process has become the most widely used method in closed-cell aluminum foam manufacturing in large dimensions. This process creates pores by adding a foaming agent to the molten metal. Therefore, selecting appropriate foaming agents is vital, and it controls pore sizes and their distribution in producing a homogeneous foam. In the current research, as cost-effective foaming agents, the Bauxite and Phenol-formaldehyde resin (PFR) embedded TiH2 were successfully produced and then investigated by SEM and EDX analysis. It can be concluded that in the presence of the Bauxite ceramic phase and silica gel formation in Bauxite-embedded TiH2 and the formation of a carbon layer due to the burning of resin in PFR-embedded TiH2, heat-resistant protective layers are formed around TiH2 powders, and thus it delays (120 s) the gas release. The delay in the decomposition of H2 gas is equal to/higher than in the literature, and it gives the gas’ bubbles enough time to establish pores in the metallic matrix; thus, foams with uniform distribution of pores were produced. A quantitative examination of the cross-section of the produced foams shows that the number of cells with smaller sizes in the foams produced with the modified foaming agent is more, and the distribution of pores or cells is more homogeneous.
Eosinopenia as Predictor of Poor Outcome in Hospitalized COVID-19 Adult Patients from Waves 1 and 2 of 2020 Pandemic
Authors: Cauchois Raphael , Pietri Lea , Dalmas Jean-Baptiste , Koubi Marie , Capron Thibaut , Cassir Nadim , Potere Nicola , Polidoro Ildo , Jean Rodolphe , Jarrot Pierre-André , Andre Baptiste , Veit Veronique , Carvelli Julien , Pauly Vanessa , Chanez Pascal , Papazian Laurent , Kaplanski Gilles
Published: December 2022

During SARS-CoV-2 infection, eosinopenia may reflect a hyperactive immune response. In this study of hospitalized COVID-19 patients, we aimed to better understand the prognostic value of severe eosinopenia (absolute eosinophil count = 0 G/L) and decipher its underlying mechanisms. We retrospectively analyzed the records of COVID-19 patients hospitalized from March to June 2020 in three university hospitals in Marseille, France. We assessed the association between severe eosinopenia and a composite poor outcome in these patients, including the need for oxygen supplementation at >6 L/min, ICU admission, and in-hospital death. Among the 551 COVID-19 patients included in this study, severe eosinopenia was found in 228 (51%) of them on admission to hospital and was associated with a composite poor outcome using multivariate analysis (OR = 2.58; CI95 [1.77–3.75]; p < 0.0001). We found a significant association between the presence of severe eosinopenia on admission and the elevation in C-reactive protein, ferritin, IP-10, and suPAR. The histological findings in a series of 37 autopsies from patients who died from severe COVID-19 and presented with severe eosinopenia showed no pulmonary eosinophil trapping. Severe eosinopenia can be a reliable biomarker associated with a composite poor outcome in hospitalized COVID-19 adult patients. It may reflect the magnitude of immune hyperactivation during severe-to-critical COVID-19.
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation and Other Gut Microbiota Manipulation Strategies
Authors: Quaranta Gianluca , Guarnaccia Alessandra , Fancello Giovanni , Agrillo Chiara , Iannarelli Federica , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Masucci Luca
Published: December 2022

The gut microbiota is composed of bacteria, archaea, phages, and protozoa. It is now well known that their mutual interactions and metabolism influence host organism pathophysiology. Over the years, there has been growing interest in the composition of the gut microbiota and intervention strategies in order to modulate it. Characterizing the gut microbial populations represents the first step to clarifying the impact on the health/illness equilibrium, and then developing potential tools suited for each clinical disorder. In this review, we discuss the current gut microbiota manipulation strategies available and their clinical applications in personalized medicine. Among them, FMT represents the most widely explored therapeutic tools as recent guidelines and standardization protocols, not only for intestinal disorders. On the other hand, the use of prebiotics and probiotics has evidence of encouraging findings on their safety, patient compliance, and inter-individual effectiveness. In recent years, avant-garde approaches have emerged, including engineered bacterial strains, phage therapy, and genome editing (CRISPR-Cas9), which require further investigation through clinical trials.
Recent Trend of Antimicrobial Susceptibility among Mycoplasma pneumoniae Isolated from Japanese Children
Authors: Oishi Tomohiro , Yoshioka Daisuke , Nakano Takashi , Ouchi Kazunobu
Published: December 2022

Macrolide-resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MRMP) infections have become increasingly prevalent, especially in East Asia. Whereas MRMP strains have point mutations that are implicated in conferring resistance, monitoring the antibiotic susceptibility of M. pneumoniae and identifying mutations in the resistant strains is crucial for effective disease management. Therefore, we investigated antimicrobial susceptibilities among M. pneumoniae isolates obtained from Japanese children since 2011. To establish the current susceptibility trend, we analyzed the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of M. pneumoniae in recent years (2017–2020) in comparison with past data. Our observation of 122 M. pneumoniae strains suggested that 76 were macrolide-susceptible M. pneumoniae (MSMP) and 46 were macrolide-resistant. The MIC ranges (µg/mL) of clarithromycin (CAM), azithromycin (AZM), tosufloxacin (TFLX), and minocycline (MINO) to all M. pneumoniae isolates were 0.001–>128, 0.00012–>128, 0.25–0.5, and 0.125–4 µg/mL, respectively. None of the strains was resistant to TFLX or MINO. The MIC distributions of CAM and AZM to MSMP and MINO to all M. pneumoniae isolates were significantly lower, but that of TFLX was significantly higher than that reported in all previous data concordant with the amount of recent antimicrobial use. Therefore, continuation of appropriate antimicrobial use for M. pneumoniae infection is important.
Surveillance of Legionella pneumophila: Detection in Public Swimming Pool Environment
Authors: Vukić Lušić Darija , Piškur Vanda , Cenov Arijana , Tomić Linšak Dijana , Broznić Dalibor , Glad Marin , Linšak Željko
Published: December 2022

The bacterium Legionella pneumophila is a ubiquitous microorganism naturally present in water environments. The actual presence of this opportunistic premise plumbing pathogen in recreational swimming pools and hot tubs in the northwestern part of Croatia has not been investigated. This study aimed to analyze the presence of the opportunistic pathogen L. pneumophila in public swimming pool water in Primorje-Gorski Kotar County (N = 4587) over a four-year period (2018–2021). Additionally, the second aim was to investigate the connection between the presence of L. pneumophila and pool water physicochemical parameters using mathematical predictive models. The presence of L. pneumophila was detected in six pool samples. Five positive samples were found in the water of indoor hot tubs filled with fresh water, and one positive sample in an outdoor recreational saltwater pool. A predictive mathematical model showed the simultaneous influence of chemical parameters dominated by the temperature in saltwater and freshwater pools, as well as the significant influence of free residual chlorine and trihalomethanes. Our results pointed out that keeping all physicochemical parameters in perfect harmony is necessary to reach the best disinfection procedure and to avoid the optimum conditions for L. pneumophila occurrence.
Potential Probiotic Properties of Exopolysaccharide-Producing Lacticaseibacillus paracasei EPS DA-BACS and Prebiotic Activity of Its Exopolysaccharide
Authors: Lee Min-Gyu , Joeng Huijin , Shin Jaein , Kim Suin , Lee Chaeeun , Song Youngbo , Lee Byung-Hoo , Park Hyoung-Geun , Lee Tae-Ho , Jiang Hai-Hua , Han Young-Sun , Lee Bong-Gyeong , Lee Ho-Jin , Park Min-Ju , Jun Yun-Ju , Park Young-Seo
Published: December 2022

Exopolysaccharide (EPS)-producing Lacticaseibacillus paracasei EPS DA-BACS was isolated from healthy human feces and its probiotic properties, as well as the structure and prebiotic activity of the EPS from this strain were examined. EPS from L. paracasei EPS DA-BACS had a ropy phenotype, which is known to have potential health benefits and is identified as loosely cell-bounded glucomannan-type EPS with a molecular size of 3.7 × 106 Da. EPS promoted the acid tolerance of L. paracasei EPS DA-BACS and provided cells with tolerance to gastrointestinal stress. The purified EPS showed growth inhibitory activity against Clostridium difficile. L. paracasei EPS DA-BACS cells completely inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Aspergillus brasiliensis, as well as showed high growth inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Treatment of lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells with heat-killed L. paracasei EPS DA-BACS cells led to a decrease in the production of nitric oxide, indicating the anti-inflammatory activity of L. paracasei EPS DA-BACS. Purified EPS promoted the growth of Lactobacillus gasseri, Bifidobacterium bifidum, B. animalis, and B. faecale which showed high prebiotic activity. L. paracasei EPS DA-BACS harbors no antibiotic resistance genes or virulence factors. Therefore, L. paracasei EPS DA-BACS exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities with high gut adhesion ability and gastrointestinal tolerance and can be used as a potential probiotic.
Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance of Tigecycline-Resistant Strains Isolated from Herbivores in Northwest China
Authors: Yu Yongfeng , Shao Changchun , Gong Xiaowei , Quan Heng , Liu Donghui , Chen Qiwei , Chu Yuefeng
Published: December 2022

There is no doubt that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat to public health and safety, regardless of whether it’s caused by people or natural transmission. This study aimed to investigate the genetic characteristics and variations of tigecycline-resistant Gram-negative isolates from herbivores in northwest China. In this study, a total of 300 samples were collected from various provinces in northwest China, and 11 strains (3.67%) of tigecycline-resistant bacteria were obtained. In addition, bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing against 14 antibiotics were performed. All isolates were multiple drug-resistant (MDR) and resistant to more than three kinds of antibiotics. Using an Illumina MiSeq platform, 11 tigecycline-resistant isolates were sequenced using whole genome sequencing (WGS). The assembled draft genomes were annotated, and then sequences were blasted against the AMR gene database and virulence factor database. Several resistance genes mediating drug resistance were detected by WGS, including fluoroquinolone resistance genes (gyrA_S83L, gyrA_D87N, S83L, parC_S80I, and gyrB_S463A), fosfomycin resistance genes (GlpT_E448K and UhpT_E350Q), beta-lactam resistance genes (FtsI_D350N and S357N), and the tigecycline resistance gene (tetR N/A). Furthermore, there were five kinds of chromosomally encoded genetic systems that confer MDR (MarR_Y137H, G103S, MarR_N/A, SoxR_N/A, SoxS_N/A, AcrR N/A, and MexZ_K127E). A comprehensive analysis of MDR strains derived from WGS was used to detect variable antimicrobial resistance genes and their precise mechanisms of resistance. In addition, we found a novel ST type of Escherichia coli (ST13667) and a newly discovered point mutation (K127E) in the MexZ gene of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. WGS plays a crucial role in AMR control, prevention strategies, as well as multifaceted intervention strategies.
Mediterranean Food Industry By-Products as a Novel Source of Phytochemicals with a Promising Role in Cancer Prevention
Authors: Agaj Andrea , Peršurić Željka , Pavelić Sandra Kraljević
Published: December 2022

The Mediterranean diet is recognized as a sustainable dietary approach with beneficial health effects. This is highly relevant, although the production of typical Mediterranean food, i.e., olive oil or wine, processed tomatoes and pomegranate products, generates significant amounts of waste. Ideally, this waste should be disposed in an appropriate, eco-friendly way. A number of scientific papers were published recently showing that these by-products can be exploited as a valuable source of biologically active components with health benefits, including anticancer effects. In this review, accordingly, we elaborate on such phytochemicals recovered from the food waste generated during the processing of vegetables and fruits, typical of the Mediterranean diet, with a focus on substances with anticancer activity. The molecular mechanisms of these phytochemicals, which might be included in supporting treatment and prevention of various types of cancer, are presented. The use of bioactive components from food waste may improve the economic feasibility and sustainability of the food processing industry in the Mediterranean region and can provide a new strategy to approach prevention of cancer.