bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Awareness Regarding Antimicrobial Resistance and Antibiotic Prescribing Behavior among Physicians: Results from a Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey in India
Authors: Mittal Niti , Goel Parul , Goel Kapil , Sharma Rashmi , Nath Bhola , Singh Surjit , Thangaraju Pugazhenthan , Mittal Rakesh , Kahkasha Kahkasha , Mithra Prasanna , Sahu Rajesh , Priyadarshini Raman P. , Sharma Nikita , Pala Star , Rohilla Suneel Kumar , Kaushal Jyoti , Sah Sanjit , Rustagi Sarvesh , Sah Ranjit , Barboza Joshuan J.
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Understanding the physicians’ knowledge, attitudes, and antimicrobial prescribing behavior is a crucial step towards designing strategies for the optimal use of these agents. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among clinicians across India between May and July 2022 using a self-administered questionnaire in English comprising 35 questions pertaining to demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practices domains. (3) Results: A total of 544 responses were received from 710 physicians contacted. Sixty percent of participants were males, with mean age of 34.7 years. Mean ± Standard Deviation scores for knowledge, attitude, and practices domains were 8 ± 1.6, 20.2 ± 3.5, and 15.3 ± 2.1, respectively. Higher scores were associated with basic [odds ratio (95% Confidence Interval), p value: 2.95 (1.21, 7.2), 0.02], medical and allied sciences [2.71 (1.09, 6.67), 0.03], and central zone [3.75 (1.39, 10.12), 0.009]. A substantial proportion of dissatisfactory responses were found regarding hospital antibiograms, antibiotics effective against anaerobes, WHO AWaRe (access, watch, and reserve) classification of antibiotics, and the role of infection prevention and control (IPC) measures in the containment of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). (4) Conclusions: There is a need to sensitize and educate clinicians on various issues related to antimicrobial use, such as antibiograms, double anaerobic cover, IPC practices, and guideline-based recommendations, to curb the AMR pandemic.
A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Survey of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Healthcare Professionals towards Antimicrobial Stewardship in Ghana: Findings and Implications
Authors: Sefah Israel Abebrese , Chetty Sarentha , Yamoah Peter , Meyer Johanna C. , Chigome Audrey , Godman Brian , Bangalee Varsha
Published: September 2023

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are part of the key activities that contribute to reducing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Good knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among healthcare professionals (HCPs) are essential to improving future antimicrobial use and reducing AMR, which is a priority in Ghana. A multicenter cross-sectional survey was conducted in six public hospitals in Ghana among key HCPs to assess their level of KAP towards AMS using a validated self-administered electronic questionnaire. Data analyses included descriptive and inferential statistics using STATA version 14. Overall, 339 out of 355 HCPs responded to the questionnaire, giving a response rate of 95.5%. Most responders were nurses (n = 256, 78.2%), followed by medical doctors (n = 45, 13.3%). The study recorded both poor knowledge (8.9%) and practice levels (35.4%), as well as a good attitude (78.8%) towards AMS. Ongoing exposure to AMS structured training, exposure to continuous professional development training on AMS in the previous year, and the number of years of working experience were predictors of the HCPs’ level of knowledge (aOR = 3.02 C.I = 1.12–8.11), attitude (aOR = 0.37 C.I = 0.20–0.69) and practice (aOR = 2.09 C.I =1.09–3.99), respectively. Consequently, concentrated efforts must be made to address current low levels of knowledge and poor practices regarding AMS among HCPs in Ghana as part of ongoing strategies in the National Action Plan to reduce AMR.
Disorders of Endogenous and Exogenous Antioxidants in Neurological Diseases
Authors: Korczowska-Łącka Izabela , Słowikowski Bartosz , Piekut Thomas , Hurła Mikołaj , Banaszek Natalia , Szymanowicz Oliwia , Jagodziński Paweł P. , Kozubski Wojciech , Permoda-Pachuta Agnieszka , Dorszewska Jolanta
Published: September 2023

In diseases of the central nervous system, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Huntington’s disease (HD), and even epilepsy and migraine, oxidative stress load commonly surpasses endogenous antioxidative capacity. While oxidative processes have been robustly implicated in the pathogenesis of these diseases, the significance of particular antioxidants, both endogenous and especially exogenous, in maintaining redox homeostasis requires further research. Among endogenous antioxidants, enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase are central to disabling free radicals, thereby preventing oxidative damage to cellular lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Whether supplementation with endogenously occurring antioxidant compounds such as melatonin and glutathione carries any benefit, however, remains equivocal. Similarly, while the health benefits of certain exogenous antioxidants, including ascorbic acid (vitamin C), carotenoids, polyphenols, sulforaphanes, and anthocyanins are commonly touted, their clinical efficacy and effectiveness in particular neurological disease contexts need to be more robustly defined. Here, we review the current literature on the cellular mechanisms mitigating oxidative stress and comment on the possible benefit of the most common exogenous antioxidants in diseases such as AD, PD, ALS, HD, stroke, epilepsy, and migraine. We selected common neurological diseases of a basically neurodegenerative nature.
Special Issue: “Bioactive Compounds from Various Sources: Beneficial Effects and Technological Applications II”
Authors: Gallo Monica
Published: September 2023

Bioactive components are substances that positively influence the organism, resulting in a physiological benefit and/or reduction in the risk of developing certain pathologies [...]
Chinese Text De-Colloquialization Technique Based on Back-Translation Strategy and End-to-End Learning
Authors: Liu Hongkai , Ye Zhonglin , Zhao Haixing , Yang Yanlin
Published: September 2023

With the development of the Internet, there has been a significant increase in various types of textual information. However, when people engage in the composition of formal texts, they often incorporate their colloquial habits, which can diminish the professionalism and formality of the text. Existing research on Chinese texts primarily focuses on correcting misspelt characters that are visually or phonetically similar, as well as obvious grammatical errors, such as redundancy, omissions, and incorrect word order. However, there is limited research addressing the correction of text that exhibits colloquial expressions without apparent grammatical errors or misspelt characters. This article proposes a novel technique that utilizes deep learning methods to directly transform colloquial textual expressions into formal written expressions. Firstly, a parallel corpus dataset of written and spoken language is constructed using a back-translation strategy. Then, an end-to-end learning mechanism based on neural machine translation is employed, with colloquial text as the source language and written text as the target language. This allows the model to directly transform the colloquial text into text with a formal style. Finally, an evaluation of the proposed approach is conducted using the bilingual evaluation understudy (BLEU) and manual assessment techniques. The experimental results demonstrate that the technology proposed in this paper performs well in the task of de-colloquialization in Chinese texts. The contribution of this paper lies in proposing an automated method for collecting a substitute for manually annotated parallel corpora of spoken and written language, which significantly saves time and reduces the manual cost of constructing the dataset. Furthermore, the application of end-to-end learning techniques from neural machine translation to the task of de-colloquialization allows the trained model to directly generate written language flexibly based on the input of spoken language. This presents a novel solution for the task of the de-colloquialization of Chinese text.
Experimental and Numerical Estimation of the Aerodynamic Forces Induced by the Wind Acting on a Fast-Erecting Crane
Authors: Augustyn Marcin , Barski Marek , Chwał Małgorzata , Stawiarski Adam
Published: September 2023

The current work concerns the problem of estimating the aerodynamic forces and moments induced by the wind on the fast-erecting 63K crane by Liebherr. In the first step, scaled sectional models of the tower truss and horizontal jib truss are prepared for experimental analysis in an aerodynamic tunnel. Next, the aerodynamic forces and moments are measured in the aerodynamic tunnel. It is assumed that the direction of the wind changes from 0° to 180° in 15° steps for both of the studied sectional models. The experimental tests are carried out for two levels of turbulence intensity. In the case of the model of the vertical part of the studied crane, the turbulence intensities are assumed to be equal to 3% and 9%. In the case of the horizontal crane jib, they are 3% and 12%, respectively. In the second step, a CFD analysis is performed with the use of Ansys Fluent R22 software. The standard k-ε model with a standard wall function of the turbulent flow is utilized. The airflow around the studied structures is modeled with the use of polytetrahedral cells. A relatively good agreement between the numerical and experimental results is observed. The obtained values are compared to the appropriate standard, namely PN-ISO 4302.
Fabrication of Activated Multiporous Carbon Nanofibers Using Vacuum Plasma for High-Capacity Energy Storage
Authors: Nam Yeonjeong , Nguyen My Thi Ngoc , Tran Trieu Vu , Lee Junseop
Published: September 2023

Porous carbon nanofibers are widely used as supercapacitor electrode materials due to their excellent physical adsorption/desorption operation and smooth transport of ions. The acid/base activation method is commonly used to generate micropores on the surface of carbon nanofibers, but controlling the activation level and minimizing the release of harmful chemicals pose challenges. This study proposed a method for producing activated multiporous carbon nanofibers that is easier to operate and more environmentally friendly. It utilizes the vacuum plasma process to enhance surface area and introduce functional groups onto the electrospun polymer nanofibers. Subsequent heat treatment results in the formation of activated multiporous carbon nanofibers. The type and density of the functional group introduced into the carbon structure were adjusted to the type of plasma gas (O2, NH3 and C4F8) being exposed. Among them, oxygen plasma-treated carbon nanofibers (O-MPCNFs) not only have a much larger active surface (517.84 m2 g−1) than other gases (290.62 m2 g−1 for NH3 and 159.29 m2 g−1 for C4F8), but also generate a lot of micropores, promoting rapid adsorption/desorption-inducted charges; therefore, they have excellent energy storage capacity. The O-MPCNF-based symmetrical two-electrode supercapacitor has a high specific capacitance (173.28 F g−1), rate capability and cycle stability (94.57% after 5000 cycles).
Is There a Difference in Mid-Palatal Suture Density after Rapid Maxillary Expansion, Surgically Assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion, and Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mello Figueiredo Laura , Mascarenhas Calixto Barros Daniella , Costa Veloso Natalia , Oliveira Lisboa Cinthia , Mourão Carlos Fernando , Cury-Saramago Adriana de Alcantara , Trindade Mattos Claudia , de Albuquerque Calasans-Maia Jose
Published: September 2023

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the density of the midpalatal suture (MPS) of individuals with maxillary expansion (rapid maxillary expansion, RME), surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARPE), and miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) through computed tomography. An electronic search was performed in four databases, MEDLINE via PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in February 2023 and updated in April 2023, using previously established search strategies. Studies were retrieved without restrictions in terms of data, language, or publication status. The risk of bias assessment was based on a quality assessment tool for before-and-after studies. Ten studies were included in our systematic review, and nine studies were included for our quantitative analysis. The analyses were performed by subgroup according to the evaluation of the region, anterior, middle, and posterior, including the three types of treatment: RME, SARPE, and MARPE. Heterogeneity was high for the three regions (anterior 95%, medium 97%, and posterior 84%) and a statistical difference was found in two of the three regions (anterior p = 0.06, medium p = 0.031, and posterior p < 0.001). There is not enough evidence to state that the MPS density is different after 6 months of RME in the anterior and middle regions; the bone density values for SARPE and MARPE suggest that 6 or 7 months after expansion, there is still no bone density similar to the initial one in the three regions.
Curcumin Co-Encapsulation Potentiates Anti-Arthritic Efficacy of Meloxicam Biodegradable Nanoparticles in Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis Animal Model
Authors: Aslam Bilal , Hussain Asif , Faisal Muhammad Naeem , Sindhu Zia-ud-Din , Khan Rifat Ullah , Alhidary Ibrahim A. , Naz Shabana , Tufarelli Vincenzo
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the anti-arthritic activity of curcumin and meloxicam co-loaded PLGA nanoparticles in adjuvant-induced arthritic rats. PLGA nanoparticles encapsulating curcumin (nCur) and meloxicam (nMlx) alone and in combination (nCur/Mlx) were used to characterize zeta size and potential, polydispersity index, encapsulation efficiency (%), compound–polymer interactions (FT-IR analysis), and surface morphology (SEM imaging). In vivo, Complete Freund’s adjuvant-induced arthritic rats were intraperitoneally (i.p.) administered with curcumin, meloxicam, curcumin plus meloxicam, nCur, nMlx, and nCur/Mlx for 28 consecutive days. Results showed that nCur, nMlx, and nCur/Mlx significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced paw swelling and arthritic score, restored body weight and the immune organ index (thymus and spleen), as well as attenuated serum inflammatory markers (RF, CRP, and PGE2) and oxidative stress parameters (MDA, SOD, and CAT) in adjuvant-induced arthritic rats compared to free compounds. In addition, mono- and dual-compound-loaded nanoparticles significantly (p ≤ 0.05) down-regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), up-regulated anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-γ), and modulated OPG and RANKL expressions in paw tissue. The aforementioned results were further confirmed through radiological and histopathological examinations. Furthermore, the anti-arthritic effect of nCur/Mlx was notably (p ≤ 0.05) enhanced compared to nCur or nMlx alone. In conclusion, the co-nanoencapsulation of curcumin could potentiate the anti-arthritic activity of meloxicam and could provide a novel therapeutic approach for the formulation of nanocarrier pharmaceutical products for the management of arthritis.
Allyl Isothiocyanate Suppresses the Proliferation in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma via Mediating the KDM8/CCNA1 Axis
Authors: Hsieh Cheng-Chih , Yang Cheng-Yu , Peng Bo , Ho Sien-Lin , Tsao Chang-Huei , Lin Chih-Kung , Lin Chun-Shu , Lin Gu-Jiun , Lin Heng-Yi , Huang Hung-Chi , Chang Szu-Chien , Sytwu Huey-Kang , Chia Wei-Tso , Chen Yuan-Wu
Published: September 2023

The dysregulated expression of cyclin genes can lead to the uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells. Histone demethylase Jumonji-C domain-containing protein 5 (KDM8, JMJD5) and cyclin A1 (CCNA1) are pivotal in cell cycle progression. A promising candidate for augmenting cancer treatment is Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a natural dietary chemotherapeutic and epigenetic modulator. This study aimed to investigate AITC’s impact on the KDM8/CCNA1 axis to elucidate its role in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tumorigenesis. The expression of KDM8 and CCNA1 was assessed using a tissue microarray (TMA) immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay. In vitro experiments with OSCC cell lines and in vivo experiments with patient-derived tumor xenograft (PDTX) and SAS subcutaneous xenograft tumor models were conducted to explore AITC’s effects on their expression and cell proliferation. The results showed elevated KDM8 and CCNA1 levels in the OSCC patient samples. AITC exhibited inhibitory effects on OSCC tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, AITC downregulated KDM8 and CCNA1 expression while inducing histone H3K36me2 expression in oral cancer cells. These findings underscore AITC’s remarkable anticancer properties against oral cancer, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic option for oral cancer treatment by disrupting the cell cycle by targeting the KDM8/CCNA1 axis.
Effect of the Timing of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on the Prognosis of Patients with Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Wang Hsu-Hui , Chen Ya-Ting , Chou San-Fang , Lee Li-Chung , Wang Jia-Hong , Lai Yi-Horng , Chang Hou-Tai
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on the hearing recovery of patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL). The clinical data of 79 patients diagnosed with ISSNHL and treated with HBOT between January 2017 and December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The pure tone audiometry (PTA) scores before and after HBOT were recorded. The associations of HBOT efficacy with demographic and clinical characteristics and the duration from disease onset to HBOT administration were determined. The average PTA score was 80.06 ± 25.94 dB before and 60.75 ± 21.26 dB after HBOT; the difference was significant. HBOT improved the hearing of 55.7% of the patients with ISSNHL (defined as an average PTA ≥ 11dB or a final average PTA score below 29 dB). There was a significant inverse relationship between the duration from symptom onset to HBOT administration and PTA score reduction after HBOT, which was adjusted for factors including age, sex, laterality of hearing loss, initial PTA score, reception of intratympanic steroid injections, tinnitus, dizziness, vertigo, diabetes, hypertension, and coronary artery disease. Commencing HBOT at an earlier stage is closely linked to greater improvements in hearing for patients with ISSNHL.
Noninvasive DBS-Based Approaches to Assist Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Monitoring of Gaucher Disease
Authors: Rossi Claudia , Ferrante Rossella , Valentinuzzi Silvia , Zucchelli Mirco , Buccolini Carlotta , Di Rado Sara , Trotta Daniela , Stuppia Liborio , Federici Luca , Aricò Maurizio
Published: September 2023

Gaucher disease (GD) is an autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism, belonging to the group of lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs). GD is caused by a defect in lysosomal glucocerebrosidase, responsible for glucosylceramide breakdown into glucose and ceramide. Because of this dysfunction, glucosylceramide progressively accumulates in the liver, spleen, bone marrow, bones, and in other tissues and organs, also causing anemia, hepatosplenomegaly, thrombocytopenia, and bone symptoms. Depending on neurological symptoms, GD is classified into three main types. Treatment options for LSDs, including enzyme replacement therapy, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, small molecular weight pharmacologic chaperones, and, for some LSDs, gene therapy, are increasingly available. For this reason, many efforts are aimed at implementing newborn screening for LSDs since early detection accompanied by a prompt intervention has been demonstrated to be essential for reducing morbidity and mortality and for improved clinical outcomes. Herein, we report two siblings of preschool age, presenting with hepatosplenomegaly and thrombocytopenia. The initial suspicion of GD based on the clinical picture was further supported by biochemical confirmation, through newborn screening workflow, including first- and second-level testing on the same dried blood spot samples, and finally by molecular testing.
Role of Ubiquitination and Epigenetics in the Regulation of AhR Signaling in Carcinogenesis and Metastasis: “Albatross around the Neck” or “Blessing in Disguise”
Authors: Farooqi Ammad Ahmad , Rakhmetova Venera , Kapanova Gulnara , Tanbayeva Gulnur , Mussakhanova Akmaral , Abdykulova Akmaral , Ryskulova Alma-Gul
Published: September 2023

The molecular mechanisms and signal transduction cascades evoked by the activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) are becoming increasingly understandable. AhR is a ligand-activated transcriptional factor that integrates environmental, dietary and metabolic cues for the pleiotropic regulation of a wide variety of mechanisms. AhR mediates transcriptional programming in a ligand-specific, context-specific and cell-type-specific manner. Pioneering cutting-edge research works have provided fascinating new insights into the mechanistic role of AhR-driven downstream signaling in a wide variety of cancers. AhR ligands derived from food, environmental contaminants and intestinal microbiota strategically activated AhR signaling and regulated multiple stages of cancer. Although AhR has classically been viewed and characterized as a ligand-regulated transcriptional factor, its role as a ubiquitin ligase is fascinating. Accordingly, recent evidence has paradigmatically shifted our understanding and urged researchers to drill down deep into these novel and clinically valuable facets of AhR biology. Our rapidly increasing realization related to AhR-mediated regulation of the ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of different proteins has started to scratch the surface of intriguing mechanisms. Furthermore, AhR and epigenome dynamics have shown previously unprecedented complexity during multiple stages of cancer progression. AhR not only transcriptionally regulated epigenetic-associated molecules, but also worked with epigenetic-modifying enzymes during cancer progression. In this review, we have summarized the findings obtained not only from cell-culture studies, but also from animal models. Different clinical trials are currently being conducted using AhR inhibitors and PD-1 inhibitors (Pembrolizumab and nivolumab), which confirm the linchpin role of AhR-related mechanistic details in cancer progression. Therefore, further studies are required to develop a better comprehension of the many-sided and “diametrically opposed” roles of AhR in the regulation of carcinogenesis and metastatic spread of cancer cells to the secondary organs.
A Retinal Oct-Angiography and Cardiovascular STAtus (RASTA) Dataset of Swept-Source Microvascular Imaging for Cardiovascular Risk Assessment
Authors: Germanèse Clément , Meriaudeau Fabrice , Eid Pétra , Tadayoni Ramin , Ginhac Dominique , Anwer Atif , Laure-Anne Steinberg , Guenancia Charles , Creuzot-Garcher Catherine , Gabrielle Pierre-Henry , Arnould Louis
Published: September 2023

In the context of exponential demographic growth, the imbalance between human resources and public health problems impels us to envision other solutions to the difficulties faced in the diagnosis, prevention, and large-scale management of the most common diseases. Cardiovascular diseases represent the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A large-scale screening program would make it possible to promptly identify patients with high cardiovascular risk in order to manage them adequately. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A), as a window into the state of the cardiovascular system, is a rapid, reliable, and reproducible imaging examination that enables the prompt identification of at-risk patients through the use of automated classification models. One challenge that limits the development of computer-aided diagnostic programs is the small number of open-source OCT-A acquisitions available. To facilitate the development of such models, we have assembled a set of images of the retinal microvascular system from 499 patients. It consists of 814 angiocubes as well as 2005 en face images. Angiocubes were captured with a swept-source OCT-A device of patients with varying overall cardiovascular risk. To the best of our knowledge, our dataset, Retinal oct-Angiography and cardiovascular STAtus (RASTA), is the only publicly available dataset comprising such a variety of images from healthy and at-risk patients. This dataset will enable the development of generalizable models for screening cardiovascular diseases from OCT-A retinal images.
Small-Signal Modeling and Configuration Analysis of Grid-Forming Converter under 100% Renewable Electricity Systems
Authors: Jiang Kezheng , Liu Dan , Cao Kan , Xiong Ping , Ji Xiaotong
Published: September 2023

With the rapid development of renewable energy sources such as wind power and photovoltaics, the penetration rate of power electronic equipment represented by grid-forming (GFM) and grid-following (GFL) converters in the power system has been increasing. The development of modern power systems is gradually showing a trend of high proportion of renewable energy and high proportion of power electronic devices (double-high), which profoundly changes the dynamic characteristics of modern power systems. Most of the converters in the power system adopt the GFL control strategy, which lacks the ability to support frequency and voltage. The converter with GFM control have gradually been incorporated into high-proportion renewable energy systems due to their voltage support and inertial response capabilities. However, the proportion configurations of GFM converter in the GFM/GFL hybrid system still needs to be further investigated. Therefore, this paper compares the basic principles and control methods of converters based on GFM strategy and GFL strategy, establishes the small-signal model of 100% REI system, and comparatively analyzes the dynamic characteristics of GFM and GFL converters. Secondly, a proportional configuration method for the GFM converter in 100% renewable electricity independent system (100% REI system) is proposed, and then through the small-signal model, the influence of different proportions of GFM converters and control mode on the stability of 100% REI system is discussed, the minimum configuration proportion of GFM converter to satisfy the stable operation of the system is explored. Finally, the correctness of the proportional configuration of GFM converters proposed in this paper and the engineering feasibility of independent operation of 100% REI system is verified.
Lightweight Cryptography for Connected Vehicles Communication Security on Edge Devices
Authors: Boubaker Sahbi , Alsubaei Faisal S. , Said Yahia , Ahmed Hossam E.
Published: September 2023

Recent advances in mobile connection technology have been involved in every aspect of modern life. Even vehicles are becoming more connected, with the ability to communicate without human intervention. The main idea of connected vehicles is to exchange information to avoid a potential collision or to warn the driver about stop signs/lights. To achieve a wide range of connections between vehicles, they must be equipped with connected devices such as Bluetooth, wi-fi, and cellular connectivity. However, communication raises security issues with regard to cybersecurity attacks that attempt to collect confidential information or to take control of the vehicle by forcing unintended braking or steering. In this paper, we proposed a secure vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication approach by deploying a secure communication protocol based on a key management process and a cryptography system to encrypt exchanged data. The proposed key management process was designed to resist many attacks and eliminate connections to the infrastructure for key generation. Since vehicles are equipped with embedded devices with limited computation resources, a lightweight cryptography algorithm was used. The light encryption device (LED) block cipher was used to encrypt exchanged data. The LED has a low implementation area on hardware and low power consumption. It is considered to be a perfect solution for security issues in connected vehicles. The proposed data encryption algorithm was synthesized with VHDL on the Xilinx Zynq-7020 FPGA using the Vivado HLS tool. The encryption algorithm was implemented only on the logic of the device. The achieved results proved that the proposed algorithm is suitable for implementation in vehicles due to its low implementation requirements and low power consumption in addition to its high security level against cyber-attacks.
Golden Jackal Optimization with a Deep Learning-Based Cybersecurity Solution in Industrial Internet of Things Systems
Authors: Maghrabi Louai A. , Alzahrani Ibrahim R. , Alsalman Dheyaaldin , AlKubaisy Zenah Mahmoud , Hamed Diaa , Ragab Mahmoud
Published: September 2023

Recently, artificial intelligence (AI) has gained an abundance of attention in cybersecurity for Industry 4.0 and has shown immense benefits in a large number of applications. AI technologies have paved the way for multiscale security and privacy in cybersecurity, namely AI-based malicious intruder protection, AI-based intrusion detection, prediction, and classification, and so on. Moreover, AI-based techniques have a remarkable potential to address the challenges of cybersecurity that Industry 4.0 faces, which is otherwise called the IIoT. This manuscript concentrates on the design of the Golden Jackal Optimization with Deep Learning-based Cyberattack Detection and Classification (GJODL-CADC) method in the IIoT platform. The major objective of the GJODL-CADC system lies in the detection and classification of cyberattacks on the IoT platform. To obtain this, the GJODL-CADC algorithm presents a new GJO-based feature selection approach to improve classification accuracy. Next, the GJODL-CADC method makes use of a hybrid autoencoder-based deep belief network (AE-DBN) approach for cyberattack detection. The effectiveness of the AE-DBN approach can be improved through the design of the pelican optimization algorithm (POA), which in turn improves the detection rate. An extensive set of simulations were accomplished to demonstrate the superior outcomes of the GJODL-CADC technique. An extensive analysis highlighted the promising performance of the GJODL-CADC technique compared to existing techniques.
Embedded System for Learning Smooth and Energy-Efficient Tram Driving Techniques
Authors: Konieczka Adam , Stachowiak Dorota , Feliński Szymon , Dworzański Maciej
Published: September 2023

Driving a tram in city traffic is a challenging task. It is especially difficult to drive smoothly (without unnecessary jerks) when the route runs through streets with many other vehicles, pedestrians, and traffic lights. A smooth driving style of the tram driver not only has a significant impact on the comfort of passengers being transported, but also affects the energy consumption of the tram. The paper focuses on the analysis of the tram driver’s way of driving and the resulting energy savings. The energy consumption of the tram was measured depending on the driver’s driving technique. For the analysis of the driving technique, an innovative electronic device was proposed to be installed on the tram. It detects jerks in the lateral and longitudinal directions. Based on vibration analysis, it evaluates the driver’s driving technique on an ongoing basis and displays the result of this assessment. The device is cheap and uses a popular minicomputer, a GPS system receiver, an IMU accelerometer, and a screen. It is independent of the electronic systems of the tram. Due to this, it is possible to increase passenger comfort and reduce electricity consumption. It can be useful when learning to drive a tram. Preliminary tests of this device were carried out on a real tram during rides with passengers in city traffic. Tests have confirmed its effectiveness.
Detection of Interturn Short-Circuit Faults in Dry-Type Voltage Transformers Using the Pulse Voltage Method
Authors: Nie Hongyan , Wang Hongxin , Wang Wei , Yao Yuanhang
Published: September 2023

This article investigates the application of the pulse voltage method for detecting interturn short-circuit faults in the high-voltage windings of dry-type voltage transformers. We determined the characterization parameters of the high-voltage windings of dry-type voltage transformers and trends in the variation of the characterization parameters with frequency in the presence and absence of faults. The viability of using the pulse voltage method for the detection of interturn short-circuit faults in dry-type voltage transformers was analyzed. A pulse voltage test platform was designed to analyze the response voltage waveforms using pulse-oscillating voltage experiments on transformers with various short-circuit faults. The results demonstrate that during a turn-to-turn short circuit, the equivalent resistance and inductance of a high-voltage winding are significantly lowered. When employing the pulse voltage method to investigate interturn short-circuit faults, tiny inductors are connected in parallel to produce an oscillating voltage waveform that is more uniform. Upon incurring a short circuit between turns, the pulse’s oscillating voltage frequency increases. The greater the number of turns in the short-circuit fault is, the more significant the effect of the test.
Numerical Analysis of Oil Lubrication and Cooling of Roller Thrust Bearing in High-Performance Mixed-Flow Pump
Authors: Sedlář Milan , Abrahámek Petr
Published: September 2023

This article deals with the numerical simulation of an oil–air multiphase flow inside the thrust bearing of a high-performance mixed-flow pump, including both the lubrication effects and the cooling of the oil by the water-cooling system based on spiral piping. The bearing is lubricated by the oil bath method with partially submersed rollers. Very complex full 3D geometry is modelled in all details, but for modelling purposes, the impacts of some model simplifications on the results are tested. The comprehensive CFD analysis is based on fully transient simulations, taking into account the different rotational speeds and different coordinate systems of all rotating components. The oil distribution on the bearing ring and roller walls as well as the oil temperature are discussed in detail. The results demonstrate that the designed cooling system is efficient in keeping the bearing and oil temperatures at safe values to guarantee bearing rating life even at extreme climatic conditions. The simulations present a comprehensive way of solving complex problems of the bearing and its cooling system applicable to engineering practice. The results of the simulations indicate also that the complexity of the computational domain and bearing clearances have a significant impact on the obtained results.
Characterization of Key Compounds of Organic Acids and Aroma Volatiles in Fruits of Different Actinidia argute Resources Based on High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Headspace Gas Chromatography–Ion Mobility Spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS)
Authors: He Yanli , Qin Hongyan , Wen Jinli , Cao Weiyu , Yan Yiping , Sun Yining , Yuan Pengqiang , Sun Bowei , Fan Shutian , Lu Wenpeng , Li Changyu
Published: September 2023

Actinidia arguta, known for its distinctive flavor and high nutritional value, has seen an increase in cultivation and variety identification. However, the characterization of its volatile aroma compounds remains limited. This study aimed to understand the flavor quality and key volatile aroma compounds of different A. arguta fruits. We examined 35 A. arguta resource fruits for soluble sugars, titratable acids, and sugar–acid ratios. Their organic acids and volatile aroma compounds were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and headspace gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS). The study found that among the 35 samples tested, S12 had a higher sugar–acid ratio due to its higher sugar content despite having a high titratable acid content, making its fruit flavor superior to other sources. The A. arguta resource fruits can be classified into two types: those dominated by citric acid and those dominated by quinic acid. The analysis identified a total of 76 volatile aroma substances in 35 A. arguta resource fruits. These included 18 esters, 14 alcohols, 16 ketones, 12 aldehydes, seven terpenes, three pyrazines, two furans, two acids, and two other compounds. Aldehydes had the highest relative content of total volatile compounds. Using the orthogonal partial least squares discriminant method (OPLS-DA) analysis, with the 76 volatile aroma substances as dependent variables and different soft date kiwifruit resources as independent variables, 33 volatile aroma substances with variable importance in projection (VIP) greater than 1 were identified as the main aroma substances of A. arguta resource fruits. The volatile aroma compounds with VIP values greater than 1 were analyzed for odor activity value (OAV). The OAV values of isoamyl acetate, 3-methyl-1-butanol, 1-hexanol, and butanal were significantly higher than those of the other compounds. This suggests that these four volatile compounds contribute more to the overall aroma of A. arguta. This study is significant for understanding the differences between the fruit aromas of different A. arguta resources and for scientifically recognizing the characteristic compounds of the fruit aromas of different A. arguta resources.
Assessment of Furan and Its Derivatives Intake with Home Prepared Meals and Characterization of Associated Risk for Polish Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Minorczyk Maria , Czaja Katarzyna , Starski Andrzej , Korcz Wojciech , Liszewska Monika , Lewiński Radosław , Robson Mark Gregory , Postupolski Jacek , Struciński Paweł
Published: September 2023

Furan and its derivatives are found in various heat-treated foods. Furan is classified as a possible human carcinogen. The European Union authorities recommend collecting data on the occurrence of these compounds, estimating consumer exposure, and taking measures to protect human health based on a scientific risk assessment. The aim of this study was to estimate the exposure of infants and toddlers to furan and its methyl derivatives—2-methylfuran, 3-methylfuran, and ∑2,5-dimethylfuran/2-ethylfuran—present in home-prepared foods and to characterize the associated health risks. The compounds of interest were determined using the HS-GC/MS. The risk was characterized by the calculation of the margin of exposure (MoE). Levels of furan and its derivatives in analyzed samples were in the range of <LOD ÷ 10 µg/kg and <LOD ÷ 80.3 µg/kg, respectively. The MoEs for neoplastic effects in most of the presumed scenarios indicate a risk associated with the intake of analyzed compounds in both age groups (MoE < 10,000; 331 to 6354 for 95th percentile, 3181–39,033 for median). The MoEs for non-neoplastic effects indicate a potential risk associated with the intake of 3-methylfuran and Σ2,5-dimethylfuran/2-ethylfuran for high exposure (95th percentile) only (MoE < 100; 16–47). The obtained results indicate the need for further research in this area.
Role of Anthocyanins in the Interaction between Salivary Mucins and Wine Astringent Compounds
Authors: Torres-Rochera Bárbara , Manjón Elvira , Escribano-Bailón María Teresa , García-Estévez Ignacio
Published: September 2023

Wine astringency is a very complex sensation whose complete mechanism has not been entirely described. Not only salivary proline-rich proteins (PRPs) are involved in its development; salivary mucins can also play an important role. On the other hand, it has been described that anthocyanins can interact with PRPs, but there is no information about their potential role on the interactions with mucins. In this work, the molecular interactions between salivary mucins (M) and different wine phenolic compounds, such as catechin (C), epicatechin (E) and quercetin 3-β-glucopyranoside (QG), as well as the effect of the anthocyanin malvidin 3-O-glucoside (Mv) on the interactions with mucins, were assessed by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). Results showed that the interaction between anthocyanin and mucins is stronger than that of both flavanols analyzed, since the affinity constant values were 10 times higher for anthocyanin than for catechin, the only flavanol showing interaction in binary assay. Moreover, at the concentration at which polyphenols are usually found in wine, flavonols seem not to be involved in the interactions with mucins. These results showed, for the first time, the importance of wine anthocyanins in the mechanisms of astringency involving high-molecular-weight salivary proteins like mucins.
Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Thermal-Induced Polymerized Goat Milk Whey Protein
Authors: Tian Mu , Sun Xiaomeng , Cheng Jianjun , Guo Mingruo
Published: September 2023

Goat milk whey protein products are a hard-to-source commodity. Whey protein concentrate was directly prepared from fresh goat milk. The effects of the heating temperature (69–78 °C), time (15–30 min), and pH (7.5–7.9) on the physicochemical and functional properties of the goat milk whey protein were investigated. The results showed that the particle size of the samples significantly increased (p < 0.05) after heat treatment. The zeta potential of polymerized goat milk whey protein (PGWP) was lower than that of native goat milk whey protein. The content of the free sulfhydryl groups of PGWP decreased with increasing heating temperature and time, while an increase in surface hydrophobicity and apparent viscosity of PGWP were observed after heat treatment. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis indicated that heat treatment and pH had considerable impacts on the secondary structure of goat milk whey protein. Transmission electron microscope images revealed that heat induced the formation of a large and uniform protein network. Additionally, the changes in the physicochemical and structural properties contributed to the improvement of the emulsifying and foaming properties of goat milk whey protein after heat treatment. The results may provide a theoretical basis for the applications of polymerized goat milk whey protein in related products.
Food Perception: Taste, Smell and Flavour
Authors: Chen Yanping , Liu Ying , Feng Xi
Published: September 2023

Flavor is the most important sensory quality in food [...]
The Magical “Born Rule” and Quantum “Measurement”: Implications for Physics
Authors: Hansson Johan
Published: September 2023

I. The arena of quantum mechanics and quantum field theory is the abstract, unobserved and unobservable, M-dimensional formal Hilbert space ≠ spacetime. II. The arena of observations—and, more generally, of all events (i.e., everything) in the real physical world—is the classical four-dimensional physical spacetime. III. The “Born rule” is the random process “magically” transforming I into II. Wavefunctions are superposed and entangled only in the abstract space I, never in spacetime II. Attempted formulations of quantum theory directly in real physical spacetime actually constitute examples of “locally real” theories, as defined by Clauser and Horne, and are therefore already empirically refuted by the numerous tests of Bell’s theorem in real, controlled experiments in laboratories here on Earth. Observed quantum entities (i.e., events) are never superposed or entangled as they: (1) exclusively “live” (manifest) in real physical spacetime and (2) are not described by entangled wavefunctions after “measurement” effectuated by III. When separated and treated correctly in this way, a number of fundamental problems and “paradoxes” of quantum theory vs. relativity (i.e., spacetime) simply vanish, such as the black hole information paradox, the infinite zero-point energy of quantum field theory and the quantization of general relativity.
Effectiveness of Hybrid Geosynthetic Systems in Controlling Differential Heave in Flexible Pavements over Expansive Soils
Authors: Tamim Mir Md. , Mishra Debakanta , Chittoori Bhaskar C. S.
Published: September 2023

The challenge of maintaining ride quality and serviceability in flexible pavements built over expansive soil deposits remains a critical concern for transportation agencies. These expansive subgrades exhibit swell-shrink behavior in response to moisture fluctuations, leading to differential heaving and subsequent costly maintenance. This paper explores the effectiveness of a Hybrid Geosynthetic Reinforcement System (HGRS)—a composite of geocell and geogrid—as a targeted mitigation strategy for differential heaving induced by expansive soils. A large-scale box test was designed to simulate a flexible pavement section, consisting solely of a base course layer and the underlying expansive subgrade. Four test conditions were investigated: an unreinforced control, a geocell-reinforced section, a geogrid-reinforced section, and an HGRS-reinforced section. Vertical displacements on the surface of the base course layer were longitudinally monitored and compared against the control. The results reveal that the use of geosynthetic reinforcements, and HGRS in particular, significantly mitigates both maximum surficial heave and differential swelling. Among the systems tested, flexible pavements featuring HGRS demonstrated the most effective performance in alleviating the challenges posed by expansive soil deposits.
Using Palaeomagnetic Techniques to Date Indigenous Archaeological Sites in New Zealand
Authors: Poojary Shefali , Robinson Fergus , Turner Gillian
Published: September 2023

Aotearoa/New Zealand was first settled by the Māori people some 800–1000 years ago. Archaeomagnetism provides one of the few means of dating early sites of Māori occupation, particularly when radiocarbon dating is not feasible. This involves dating the thermoremanent magnetization imparted to the heat-retaining stones used in traditional Māori earth ovens, hāngī or umu, at the time of their last cooling. The direction of this magnetization is correlated with the reference curve of the changes in the geomagnetic field direction in New Zealand over the past 1000 years, NZPSV1k.2023. Here, we describe the application of archaeomagnetic dating to indigenous hāngī sampled at two sites in the North Island of New Zealand. The first, in the present-day city of Napier on the east coast, has been studied in detail and is shown to have been occupied, possibly intermittently, over 400–600 years, while the second, in present-day Waikanae on the west coast, is tentatively dated to ca. 1760 AD, just decades before the first European arrival in New Zealand.