bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual Search and Conflict Mitigation Strategies Used by Expert en Route Air Traffic Controllers
Authors: Palma Fraga Ricardo , Kang Ziho , Crutchfield Jerry M. , Mandal Saptarshi
Published: June 2021

The role of the en route air traffic control specialist (ATCS) is vital to maintaining safety and efficiency within the National Airspace System (NAS). ATCSs must vigilantly scan the airspace under their control and adjacent airspaces using an En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) radar display. The intent of this research is to provide an understanding of the expert controller visual search and aircraft conflict mitigation strategies that could be used as scaffolding methods during ATCS training. Interviews and experiments were conducted to elicit visual scanning and conflict mitigation strategies from the retired controllers who were employed as air traffic control instructors. The interview results were characterized and classified using various heuristics. In particular, representative visual scanpaths were identified, which accord with the interview results of the visual search strategies. The highlights of our findings include: (1) participants used systematic search patterns, such as circular, spiral, linear or quadrant-based, to extract operation-relevant information; (2) participants applied an information hierarchy when aircraft information was cognitively processed (altitude -> direction -> speed); (3) altitude or direction changes were generally preferred over speed changes when imminent potential conflicts were mitigated. Potential applications exist in the implementation of the findings into the training curriculum of candidates.
Evening Primrose and Rapeseed Yield Components and Grain Oil Concentrations Were Differentially Modulated by the N, P, and K Supplies in a Mediterranean Area
Authors: Sany Hoda , Said-Al Ahl Hussein A. H. , Pari Luigi , Sabra Ali S. , Ramadan Mohamed F. , Saia Sergio
Published: June 2021

Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis L.) is an industrial crop-producing seed with high oil concentration characterized by high gamma-linoleic acid. However, limited information is available on its response to the nutrient supply, especially P and K. The aim of this work was to compare the response of Evening Primrose to the application of N, P, and K alone or in combination in a P and K deficient soil in terms of grain yield, yield components, and oil composition in comparison to Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). Evening Primrose yielded 54.4% less seed and 67.3% less oil than Rapeseed. Such differences were reduced when nutrients, especially N or P, were applied. N stimulated Evening Primrose more than Rapeseed. Application of K favored Evening Primrose oil yield when no N or P were added, and this especially occurred by an enhancement of the pod number. P favored yield per pod and oil yield in the Evening Primrose more than Rapeseed in almost all conditions. Fertilization scarcely affected lipid composition. In particular, an increase in the oleic acid concentration was found only when N + K or N + P + K were applied compared to the sole N or sole K applications. These results suggest that P and K differentially influenced yield components of both species and that Evening Primrose was less adapted than Rapeseed to a scarce nutrient supply.
A Two-Step PCR Protocol Enabling Flexible Primer Choice and High Sequencing Yield for Illumina MiSeq Meta-Barcoding
Authors: Chen Ko-Hsuan , Longley Reid , Bonito Gregory , Liao Hui-Ling
Published: June 2021

High-throughput amplicon sequencing that primarily targets the 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) (for bacteria and archaea) and the Internal Transcribed Spacer rDNA (for fungi) have facilitated microbial community discovery across diverse environments. A three-step PCR that utilizes flexible primer choices to construct the library for Illumina amplicon sequencing has been applied to several studies in forest and agricultural systems. The three-step PCR protocol, while producing high-quality reads, often yields a large number (up to 46%) of reads that are unable to be assigned to a specific sample according to its barcode. Here, we improve this technique through an optimized two-step PCR protocol. We tested and compared the improved two-step PCR meta-barcoding protocol against the three-step PCR protocol using four different primer pairs (fungal ITS: ITS1F-ITS2 and ITS1F-ITS4, and bacterial 16S: 515F-806R and 341F-806R). We demonstrate that the sequence quantity and recovery rate were significantly improved with the two-step PCR approach (fourfold more read counts per sample; determined reads ≈90% per run) while retaining high read quality (Q30 > 80%). Given that synthetic barcodes are incorporated independently from any specific primers, this two-step PCR protocol can be broadly adapted to different genomic regions and organisms of scientific interest.
A New Nanocomposite Packaging Based on LASiS-Generated AgNPs for the Preservation of Apple Juice
Authors: Sportelli Maria Chiara , Ancona Antonio , Volpe Annalisa , Gaudiuso Caterina , Lavicita Valentina , Miceli Valerio , Conte Amalia , Del Nobile Matteo Alessandro , Cioffi Nicola
Published: June 2021

Designing bioactive materials, with controlled metal ion release, exerting a significant biological action and associated to low toxicity for humans, is nowadays one of the most important challenges for our community. The most looked-for nanoantimicrobials are capable of releasing metal species with defined kinetic profiles, either by slowing down or inhibiting bacterial growth and pathogenic microorganism diffusion. In this study, laser ablation synthesis in solution (LASiS) has been used to produce bioactive Ag-based nanocolloids, in isopropyl alcohol, which can be used as water-insoluble nano-reservoirs in composite materials like poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate). Infrared spectroscopy was used to evaluate the chemical state of pristine polymer and final composite material, thus providing useful information about synthesis processes, as well as storage and processing conditions. Transmission electron microscopy was exploited to study the morphology of nano-colloids, along with UV-Vis for bulk chemical characterization, highlighting the presence of spheroidal particles with average diameter around 12 nm. Electro-thermal atomic absorption spectroscopy was used to investigate metal ion release from Ag-modified products, showing a maximum release around 60 ppb, which ensures an efficient antimicrobial activity, being much lower than what recommended by health institutions. Analytical spectroscopy results were matched with bioactivity tests carried out on target microorganisms of food spoilage.
Discovery and Functional Evaluation of Antimicrobials
Authors: Saravanakumar Kandasamy , Naveen Kumar Vishven , Wang Myeong-Hyeon
Published: June 2021

Microbial infections pose a continuous threat to human health and healthcare systems around the globe [...]
Photosynthetic Parameters Show Specific Responses to Essential Mineral Deficiencies
Authors: Ohnishi Miho , Furutani Riu , Sohtome Takayuki , Suzuki Takeshi , Wada Shinya , Tanaka Soma , Ifuku Kentaro , Ueno Daisei , Miyake Chikahiro
Published: June 2021

In response to decreases in the assimilation efficiency of CO2, plants oxidize the reaction center chlorophyll (P700) of photosystem I (PSI) to suppress reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In hydro-cultured sunflower leaves experiencing essential mineral deficiencies, we analyzed the following parameters that characterize PSI and PSII: (1) the reduction-oxidation states of P700 [Y(I), Y(NA), and Y(ND)]; (2) the relative electron flux in PSII [Y(II)]; (3) the reduction state of the primary electron acceptor in PSII, QA (1 − qL); and (4) the non-photochemical quenching of chlorophyll fluorescence (NPQ). Deficiency treatments for the minerals N, P, Mn, Mg, S, and Zn decreased Y(II) with an increase in the oxidized P700 [Y(ND)], while deficiencies for the minerals K, Fe, Ca, B, and Mo decreased Y(II) without an increase in Y(ND). During the induction of photosynthesis, the above parameters showed specific responses to each mineral. That is, we could diagnose the mineral deficiency and identify which mineral affected the photosynthesis parameters.
The Multifaceted Bacterial Cysteine Desulfurases: From Metabolism to Pathogenesis
Authors: Das Mayashree , Dewan Arshiya , Shee Somnath , Singh Amit
Published: June 2021

Living cells have developed a relay system to efficiently transfer sulfur (S) from cysteine to various thio-cofactors (iron-sulfur (Fe-S) clusters, thiamine, molybdopterin, lipoic acid, and biotin) and thiolated tRNA. The presence of such a transit route involves multiple protein components that allow the flux of S to be precisely regulated as a function of environmental cues to avoid the unnecessary accumulation of toxic concentrations of soluble sulfide (S2−). The first enzyme in this relay system is cysteine desulfurase (CSD). CSD catalyzes the release of sulfane S from L-cysteine by converting it to L-alanine by forming an enzyme-linked persulfide intermediate on its conserved cysteine residue. The persulfide S is then transferred to diverse acceptor proteins for its incorporation into the thio-cofactors. The thio-cofactor binding-proteins participate in essential and diverse cellular processes, including DNA repair, respiration, intermediary metabolism, gene regulation, and redox sensing. Additionally, CSD modulates pathogenesis, antibiotic susceptibility, metabolism, and survival of several pathogenic microbes within their hosts. In this review, we aim to comprehensively illustrate the impact of CSD on bacterial core metabolic processes and its requirement to combat redox stresses and antibiotics. Targeting CSD in human pathogens can be a potential therapy for better treatment outcomes.
Mint Oils: In Vitro Ability to Perform Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Activities and to Enhance Intestinal Barrier Integrity
Authors: Hejna Monika , Kovanda Lauren , Rossi Luciana , Liu Yanhong
Published: June 2021

The objectives of the study were to test the biological activities of peppermint and spearmint oils via (i) measuring in vitro anti-inflammatory effects with porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs), (ii) determining the barrier integrity of IPEC-J2 by analyzing transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), (iii) testing their antioxidant activities, and (iv) investigating the antimicrobial activity against enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) F18+. Briefly, (i) macrophages were seeded at 106 cells/mL and treated (24 h) with mint oils and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The treatments were 2 (0 or 1 μg/mL of LPS) × 5 (0, 25, 50, 100, 200 µg/mL of mint oils). The supernatants were collected for TNF-α and IL-1β measurement by ELISA; (ii) IPEC-J2 cells were seeded at 5 × 105 cells/mL and treated with mint oils (0, 25, 50, 100, and 200 μg/mL). TEER (Ωcm2) was measured at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h; (iii) the antioxidant activity was assessed (0, 1, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 600 mg/mL) using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and reducing power assays; (iv) overnight-grown ETEC F18+ were quantified (CFU/mL) after supplementing with peppermint and spearmint oils (0, 1.44, 2.87, 5.75, 11.50, and 23.00 mg/mL). All data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure. Both mint oils significantly inhibited (p < 0.05) IL-1β and TNF-α secretion from LPS-stimulated PAMs. Mint oil treatments did not affect TEER in IPEC-J2. Spearmint and peppermint oils exhibited (p < 0.05) strong antioxidant activities in DPPH and reducing power assays. Both mint oils also dose-dependently inhibited (p < 0.05) the growth of ETEC F18+ in vitro. The results of the study indicated that both mint oils are great candidate feed additives due to their in vitro anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. Further research is needed to evaluate their efficacy in vivo.
Antioxidant Properties of Alpha-Lipoic (Thioctic) Acid Treatment on Renal and Heart Parenchyma in a Rat Model of Hypertension
Authors: Martinelli Ilenia , Tomassoni Daniele , Roy Proshanta , Di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo , Amenta Francesco , Tayebati Seyed Khosrow
Published: June 2021

Renal and cardiac impairments are frequent events in the presence of hypertension. Organ damage is mainly linked to oxidative stress due to high blood pressure and may be reduced by antioxidant supplementation. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is one of most effective antioxidants. It is widely used as a nutritional supplement in a racemic mixture (+/–), even though the (+)-enantiomer is biologically active. This study was designed to investigate the effect of treatment with (+/–)-ALA and its enantiomers on renal and heart parenchyma in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), using immunochemical and immunohistochemical techniques. The results confirmed that the oxidative mechanisms of organ alterations, due to hypertension, and characterized by glomerular and tubular lesions, left ventricular hypertrophy, and fibrosis but not by apoptosis were accompanied by proteins’ and nucleic acids’ oxidation. We found greater effectiveness of (+)-ALA compared to (+/−)-ALA in reducing oxidative stress, cardiac and renal damages in SHR. To conclude, these data propose (+)-ALA as one of the more appropriate antioxidant molecules to prevent renal and cardiac alterations associated with hypertension.
Tanshinone IIA Stimulates Cystathionine γ-Lyase Expression and Protects Endothelial Cells from Oxidative Injury
Authors: Yan Qiaojing , Mao Zhimin , Hong Jingru , Gao Kun , Niimi Manabu , Mitsui Takahiko , Yao Jian
Published: June 2021

Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA), an active ingredient of Danshen, is a well-used drug to treat cardiovascular diseases. Currently, the mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. Given that many actions of Tan IIA could be similarly achieved by hydrogen sulfide (H2S), we speculated that Tan IIA might work through the induction of endogenous H2S. This study was to test this hypothesis. Exposure to endothelial cells to Tan IIA elevated H2S-synthesizing enzyme cystathionine γ-Lyase (CSE), associated with an increased level of endogenous H2S and free thiol activity. Further analysis revealed that this effect of Tan IIA was mediated by an estrogen receptor (ER) and cAMP signaling pathway. It stimulated VASP and CREB phosphorylation. Inhibition of ER or PKA abolished the CSE-elevating effect, whereas activation of ER or PKA mimicked the effect of Tan IIA. In an oxidative endothelial cell injury model, Tan IIA potently attenuated oxidative stress and inhibited cell death. In support of a role of endogenous H2S, inhibition of CSE aggerated oxidative cell injury. On the contrary, supplement of H2S attenuated cell injury. Collectively, our study characterized endogenous H2S as a novel mediator underlying the pharmacological actions of Tan IIA. Given the multifaceted functions of H2S, the H2S-stimulating property of Tan IIA could be exploited for treating many diseases.
Oxidative-Stress-Induced Cellular Toxicity and Glycoxidation of Biomolecules by Cosmetic Products under Sunlight Exposure
Authors: Mujtaba Syed Faiz , Masih Agha Parvez , Alqasmi Ibrahim , Alsulimani Ahmad , Khan Faizan Haider , Haque Shafiul
Published: June 2021

Cosmetics, commonly known as ‘makeup’ are products that can enhance the appearance of the human body. Cosmetic products include hair dyes, shampoos, skincare, sunscreens, kajal, and other makeup products. Cosmetics are generally applied throughout the face and over the neck region. Sunlight has different wavelengths of light, which include UV-A, UV-B, UV-C, and other radiations. Most cosmetic products have absorption maxima (λmax) in the range of visible light and UV-R. The effect of light-induced photosensitization of cosmetic products, which results in the production of free radicals through type-I and type-II photosensitization mechanisms. Free-radicals-mediated DNA damage and oxidative stress are common consequences of cosmetic phototoxicity. Cosmetic phototoxicity may include percutaneous absorption, skin irritation, eye irritation, photosensitization, mutagenicity, and genotoxicity. Oxidative stress induces membrane lipid peroxidation, glycoxidation, and protein covalent modifications, resulting in their dysfunction. Natural antioxidants inhibit oxidative-stress-induced cosmetic toxicity. Sunlight-induced photodegradation and accumulation of cosmetic photoproducts are also a matter of serious concern. India has tropical weather conditions throughout the year and generally, a majority of human activities such as commerce, agriculture, sports, etc. are performed under bright sunlight conditions. Thus, more focused and dedicated research is warranted to explore the effects of cosmetics on oxidative stress, glycoxidation of biomolecules, and photoproducts accumulation for its total human safety.
Ex Vivo Study on the Antioxidant Activity of a Winemaking By-Product Polyphenolic Extract (Taurisolo®) on Human Neutrophils
Authors: Annunziata Giuseppe , Capó Xavier , Quetglas-Llabrés Maria Magdalena , Monserrat-Mesquida Margalida , Tejada Silvia , Tur Josep A. , Ciampaglia Roberto , Guerra Fabrizia , Maisto Maria , Tenore Gian Carlo , Novellino Ettore , Sureda Antoni
Published: June 2021

Oxidative stress (OxS) has been linked to several chronic diseases and is recognized to have both major causes and consequences. The use of antioxidant-based nutraceuticals has been licensed as an optimal tool for management of OxS-related diseases. Currently, great interest is focused on the valorization of agri-food by-products as a source of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols. In this sense, we evaluated the efficacy of a novel nutraceutical formulation based on polyphenolic extract from Aglianico cultivar grape pomace (registered as Taurisolo®). In particular, we tested both native and in vitro gastrointestinal digested forms. The two extracts have been used to treat ex vivo neutrophils from subjects with metabolic syndrome, reporting a marked antioxidant activity of Taurisolo®, as shown by its ability to significantly reduce both the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the activities of catalase and myeloperoxidase in the cell medium after stimulation of neutrophils with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). Interestingly, we observed an increase in intracellular enzymatic activities in PMA-treated cells, suggesting that Taurisolo® polyphenols might be able to activate nuclear factors, up-regulating the expression of this target antioxidant gene. In addition, Taurisolo® reversed the increase in malondialdehyde induced by PMA; reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory genes such as cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and myeloperoxidase (MPO); and induced the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Overall, these results suggest the efficacy of Taurisolo® in contrasting the OxS at blood level, providing evidence for its therapeutic potential in the management of OxS-related pathological conditions in humans.
Effect of Melatonin Plus Zinc Supplementation on Fatigue Perception in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Castro-Marrero Jesús , Zaragozá Maria-Cleofé , López-Vílchez Irene , Galmés José Luis , Cordobilla Begoña , Maurel Sara , Domingo Joan Carles , Alegre-Martín José
Published: June 2021

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex, multisystem, and profoundly debilitating condition, probably of multifactorial etiology. No effective approved drugs are currently available for its treatment. Several studies have proposed symptomatic treatment with melatonin and zinc supplementation in chronic illnesses; however, little is known about the synergistic effect of this treatment on fatigue-related symptoms in ME/CFS. The primary endpoint of the study was to assess the effect of oral melatonin plus zinc supplementation on fatigue in ME/CFS. Secondary measures included participants’ sleep disturbances, anxiety/depression and health-related quality of life. A proof-of-concept, 16-week, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial was conducted in 50 ME/CFS patients assigned to receive either oral melatonin (1 mg) plus zinc (10 mg) supplementation (n = 24) or matching placebo (n = 26) once daily. Endpoint outcomes were evaluated at baseline, and then reassessed at 8 and 16 weeks of treatment and 4 weeks after treatment cessation, using self-reported outcome measures. The most relevant results were the significant reduction in the perception of physical fatigue in the Mel-Zinc group at the final treatment follow-up versus placebo (p < 0.05), and the significant improvement in the physical component summary at all follow-up visits in the experimental group. Urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin levels were significantly elevated though the treatment in experimental group vs. placebo (p < 0.0001); however, no significantly differences were observed for zinc concentration among participants. Our findings suggest that oral melatonin plus zinc supplementation for 16 weeks is safe and potentially effective in reducing fatigue and improving the quality of life in ME/CFS. This clinical study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03000777).
Glutathione in the Nervous System as a Potential Therapeutic Target to Control the Development and Progression of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Kim Kiyoung
Published: June 2021

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare neurological disorder that affects the motor neurons responsible for regulating muscle movement. However, the molecular pathogenic mechanisms of ALS remain poorly understood. A deficiency in the antioxidant tripeptide glutathione (GSH) in the nervous system appears to be involved in several neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the loss of neuronal cells. Impaired antioxidant defense systems, and the accumulation of oxidative damage due to increased dysfunction in GSH homeostasis are known to be involved in the development and progression of ALS. Aberrant GSH metabolism and redox status following oxidative damage are also associated with various cellular organelles, including the mitochondria and nucleus, and are crucial factors in neuronal toxicity induced by ALS. In this review, we provide an overview of the implications of imbalanced GSH homeostasis and its molecular characteristics in various experimental models of ALS.
An Ensemble of Convolutional Neural Networks for Audio Classification
Authors: Nanni Loris , Maguolo Gianluca , Brahnam Sheryl , Paci Michelangelo
Published: June 2021

Research in sound classification and recognition is rapidly advancing in the field of pattern recognition. One important area in this field is environmental sound recognition, whether it concerns the identification of endangered species in different habitats or the type of interfering noise in urban environments. Since environmental audio datasets are often limited in size, a robust model able to perform well across different datasets is of strong research interest. In this paper, ensembles of classifiers are combined that exploit six data augmentation techniques and four signal representations for retraining five pre-trained convolutional neural networks (CNNs); these ensembles are tested on three freely available environmental audio benchmark datasets: (i) bird calls, (ii) cat sounds, and (iii) the Environmental Sound Classification (ESC-50) database for identifying sources of noise in environments. To the best of our knowledge, this is the most extensive study investigating ensembles of CNNs for audio classification. The best-performing ensembles are compared and shown to either outperform or perform comparatively to the best methods reported in the literature on these datasets, including on the challenging ESC-50 dataset. We obtained a 97% accuracy on the bird dataset, 90.51% on the cat dataset, and 88.65% on ESC-50 using different approaches. In addition, the same ensemble model trained on the three datasets managed to reach the same results on the bird and cat datasets while losing only 0.1% on ESC-50. Thus, we have managed to create an off-the-shelf ensemble that can be trained on different datasets and reach performances competitive with the state of the art.
Diagnosis and Monitoring of Volatile Fatty Acids Production from Raw Cheese Whey by Multiscale Time-Series Analysis
Authors: Lara-Musule Antonio , Alvarez-Sanchez Ervin , Trejo-Aguilar Gloria , Acosta-Dominguez Laura , Puebla Hector , Hernandez-Martinez Eliseo
Published: June 2021

Anaerobic treatment is a viable alternative for the treatment of agro-industrial waste. Anaerobic digestion reduces organic load and produces volatile fatty acids (VFA), which are precursors of value-added products such as methane-rich biogas, biohydrogen, and biopolymers. Nowadays, there are no low-cost diagnosis and monitoring systems that analyze the dynamic behavior of key variables in real time, representing a significant limitation for its practical implementation. In this work, the feasibility of using the multiscale analysis to diagnose and monitor the key variables in VFA production by anaerobic treatment of raw cheese whey is presented. First, experiments were carried out to evaluate the performance of the proposed methodology under different operating conditions. Then, experimental pH time series were analyzed using rescaled range (R/S) techniques. Time-series analysis shows that the anaerobic VFA production exhibits a multiscale behavior, identifying three characteristic regions (i.e., three values of Hurst exponent). In addition, the dynamic Hurst exponents show satisfactory correlations with the chemical oxygen demand (COD) consumption and VFA production. The multiscale analysis of pH time series is easy to implement and inexpensive. Hence, it could be used as a diagnosis and indirect monitoring system of key variables in the anaerobic treatment of raw cheese whey.
A Practical Approach for Picking Items in an Online Shopping Warehouse
Authors: Nechyporenko Nataliya , Morales Antonio , Cervera Enric , del Pobil Angel P.
Published: June 2021

Commercially viable automated picking in unstructured environments by a robot arm remains a difficult challenge. The problem of robot grasp planning has long been around but the existing solutions tend to be limited when it comes to deploy them in open-ended realistic scenarios. Practical picking systems are called for that can handle the different properties of the objects to be manipulated, as well as the problems arising from occlusions and constrained accessibility. This paper presents a practical solution to the problem of robot picking in an online shopping warehouse by means of a novel approach that integrates a carefully selected method with a new strategy, the centroid normal approach (CNA), on a cost-effective dual-arm robotic system with two grippers specifically designed for this purpose: a two-finger gripper and a vacuum gripper. Objects identified in the scene point cloud are matched to the grasping techniques and grippers to maximize success. Extensive experimentation provides clues as to what are the reasons for success and failure. We chose as benchmark the scenario proposed by the 2017 Amazon Robotics Challenge, since it represents a realistic description of a retail shopping warehouse case; it includes many challenging constraints, such as a wide variety of different product items with a diversity of properties, which are also presented with restricted visibility and accessibility.
Experimental Modeling of Pressure in the Hydrostatic Formation of a Cylindrical Cup with Different Materials
Authors: Le Trung-Kien , Nguyen Thi-Thu , Bui Ngoc-Tam
Published: June 2021

Forming complex sheet products using hydrostatic forming technology is currently a focus of the majority of forming processes. However, in order to increase stability during the forming process, it is necessary to identify and analyze the dependency of the forming pressure and the quality of a product on input parameters. For the purpose of modeling the forming pressure, this paper presents empirical research on the product of a cylindrical cup made of various materials, including carbon steel (DC04), copper (CDA260), and stainless steel (SUS 304) with different thicknesses (0.8 mm, 1.0 mm, and 1.2 mm), under a defined range of binder pressures. The regression method is selected to formulate an equation that shows the relationship between the input parameters, including the materials (ultimate strength and yield stress), workpiece thickness, binder pressure and the output parameter, and the formation of fluid pressure. The mathematical equation allows us to determine the extent of the effect of each input on the forming pressure. The experimental results can be used for the easier planning and forecasting of the process and product quality in hydrostatic forming.
Advances in Air Quality Monitoring and Assessment
Authors: Maggos Thomas
Published: June 2021

Air quality monitoring is a long-term assessment of pollutant levels that helps to assess the extent of pollution and provide information about air quality trends [...]
Development of a Thermal Analysis Tool for Linear Machines
Authors: Eguren Imanol , Almandoz Gaizka , Egea Aritz , Elorza Leire , Urdangarin Ander
Published: June 2021

The thermal design is one of the most important stages in the design process of electrical machines. Thanks to software packages, like Motor-CAD, rotating machine designers can predict the thermal operation of the machines with high precision. However, a Motor-CAD equivalent for linear machines does not exist. Thus, linear machine designers must develop specific thermal analysis tools when designing the machines. In this article, a generic thermal analysis tool for different kinds of linear machines is presented. The model has been designed in MATLAB Simulink. Hence, it should be easy to implement for most engineers. The article describes the configuration of the different elements of the tool. The calibration parameters and procedure, and typical values of the calibration variables, are also given in the document. Finally, in order to demonstrate the generic nature of the tool, the model is experimentally validated via DC thermal tests to a linear induction machine and a linear switched-flux permanent magnet machine. The results show that, despite being simple and easy to implement, the model can predict the thermal operation of different machines with high precision.
Thrust Augmentation of Micro-Resistojets by Steady Micro-Jet Blowing into Planar Micro-Nozzle
Authors: Fontanarosa Donato , De Giorgi Maria Grazia , Ficarella Antonio
Published: June 2021

The present work investigates the impact of steady micro-jet blowing on the performance of a planar micro-nozzle designed for both liquid micro-thrusters and nitrogen cold-gas micro-resistojets. Two micro-injectors have been placed into the divergent region along the sidewalls, injecting a secondary flow of propellant perpendicularly to the wall where they have been located. The micro-jet actuator configuration is characterized by the dimensionless momentum coefficient cμ. The best performance improvement is retrieved at the maximum cμ for both water vapor (Δ%T,jet = +22.6% and Δ%Isp,Tjet = +2.9% at cμ = 0.168) and nitrogen gaseous flows (Δ%T,jet = +36.1% and Δ%Isp,Tjet = +9.1% at cμ = 0.297). The fields of the Mach number and the Schlieren computations, in combination with the streamline visualization, reveal the formation of two vortical structures in the proximity of secondary jets, which energize the core flow and enhance the expansion process downstream secondary jets. The compressible momentum thickness along the width-wise direction θxy in presence of secondary injection reduces as a function of cμ. In particular, it becomes smaller than the one computed for the baseline configuration at cμ > 0.1, decreasing up to about and -57% for the water vapor flow at cμ = 0.168, and -64% for the nitrogen gaseous flow at cμ = 0.297.
Complications Following Masseteric Nerve Neurectomy with Radiofrequency for the Treatment of Temporomandibular Disorders—A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Cho Il-San , Jo Jung Hwan , Park Ji Woon
Published: June 2021

This article describes two cases of masseteric nerve neurectomy with radiofrequency done with the intention to treat temporomandibular disorders and related symptoms; the patients then visited our clinic complaining of side-effects after the procedure. A literature review was conducted to find scientific evidence relevant to masseteric nerve neurectomy with radiofrequency. A 21-year-old male patient visited with the chief complaint of swelling of both cheeks, dizziness, and generalized lethargy occurring after masseteric nerve neurectomy using radiofrequency. His mouth opening range was restricted. Magnetic resonance imaging indicated post-procedural inflammation with hemorrhage within both masseter muscles. A 28-year-old male patient visited with the chief complaint of occlusal discomfort and disocclusion after masseteric nerve neurectomy using radiofrequency. His occlusion was abnormal with only both second molars occluding. Overbite was −1 mm. Cone-beam computed tomography indicated degenerative joint disease of both condyles. In case 1, pharmacotherapy and physical therapy relieved overall symptoms. In case 2, although exacerbation of symptoms repeatedly occurred, long-term stabilization splint and physical therapy alleviated the temporomandibular disorders symptoms. However, the occlusion remained unstable. Scientific evidence of masseteric nerve neurectomy using radiofrequency for the treatment of temporomandibular disorders is still lacking. Therefore, conservative treatment should remain as the first line approach for temporomandibular disorders.
Exploitation and Valorization of Agro-Food Wastes from Grape Harvesting: Production, Characterization of MAE-Extracts from Vitis vinifera Leaves and Stabilization in Microparticulate Powder Form
Authors: Esposito Tiziana , Paolucci Marina , Sansone Francesca , Mencherini Teresa , Pacifico Severina , Volpe Maria Grazia
Published: June 2021

Grape harvesting generates a high amount of wastes, mostly leaves, which represent an economic and ecological problem for farmers. New products can be generated through these wastes, giving environmental, social, and economic advantages while also meeting the industry demand for novel natural ingredients. In this study, aqueous leaf-extracts from two cultivars of Vitis vinifera Aglianico (Agl) and Greco di Tufo (Gre) were produced by microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and evaluated in composition by ATR- FTIR and HPLC to identify the main phenolic compounds, especially quercetin and kaempferol. The results showed that leaves extracts confirm to be a potential source of phenolic compounds. Dry extracts, although highly functional, show critical handling characteristics, being sticky and unstable in normal post-processing conditions. A stable and easy handling microparticulate ingredient was produced by spray drying containing the most phenolic-rich obtained extract (AGL-28). The microparticle powder form based on pectin/maltodextrin matrix was produced with high process efficiency. The microstructures were able to confer functional and chemical stability to the extract while also showing good technological characteristics (high water dissolution rate and flow properties), transforming the extract into a handling ingredient able to meet new industrial uses.
Prediction of Transient Temperature Distributions for Laser Welding of Dissimilar Metals
Authors: Ghosh Partha Sarathi , Sen Abhishek , Chattopadhyaya Somnath , Sharma Shubham , Singh Jujhar , Dwivedi Shashi Parkash , Saxena Ambuj , Khan Aqib Mashood , Pimenov Danil Yurievich , Giasin Khaled
Published: June 2021

Distribution of temperature during the welding process is essential for predicting and realizing some important welding features such as microstructure of the welds, heat-affected zone (HAZ), residual stresses, and their effects. In this paper, a numerical model was developed using COMSOL Multiphysics of dissimilar laser welding (butt joint) of AISI 316L and Ti6Al4V thin sheet of 2.5 mm thickness. A continuous mode (CW) fiber laser heat source of 300 W laser power was used for the present study. A time-dependent prediction of temperature distributions was attempted. The heat source was assumed as a Hermit–Gaussian analytical function with a moving velocity of 120 mm/min. Both convective and radiant heat loss and phase change of the materials were considered for the analysis. In addition, variation of temperature-dependent material properties was also considered. The maximum and minimum temperature for the two materials at different times and the temperature in the different penetration depths were also predicted. It was found that the average temperature that can be achieved in the bottom-most surface near the weld line was more than 2400 K, which justifies the penetration. Averages of maximum temperatures on the weld line at different times at the laser spot irradiation were identified near 3000 K.The temperature fluctuation near the weld line was minimal and decreased more in the traverse direction. Scanning with a displaced laser relative to the interface toward the Ti6Al4V side reduces the maximum temperature at the interface and the HAZ of the 316L side. All of these predictions agree well with the experimental results reported in current literature studies.
Synthesis of N′-(4-/3-/2-/Non-substituted benzylidene)-4-[(4-methylphenyl)sulfonyloxy] Benzohydrazides and Evaluation of Their Inhibitory Activities against Monoamine Oxidases and β-Secretase
Authors: Sellitepe Hasan Erdinç , Oh Jong Min , Doğan İnci Selin , Yildirim Sercan , Aksel Ahmet Buğra , Jeong Geum Seok , Khames Ahmed , Abdelgawad Mohamed A. , Gambacorta Nicola , Nicolotti Orazio , Mathew Bijo , Kim Hoon
Published: June 2021

Nineteen tosylated acyl hydrazone derivatives were synthesized, and their inhibitory activities against monoamine oxidases (MAOs), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and β-secretase (BACE-1) were evaluated. Compound 3o was the most potent inhibitor of MAO-A, with an IC50 value of 1.54 µM, followed by 3a (IC50 = 3.35 µM). A structural comparison with 3a indicated that the 3-F group in 3o increased its inhibitory activity against MAO-A. Compound 3s was the most potent inhibitor of MAO-B, with an IC50 value of 3.64 µM, followed by 3t (IC50 = 5.69 µM). The MAO-B inhibitory activity increased in the order of 3- > 4- > 2-NO2 groups in 3s, 3t, and 3r, respectively. All the compounds weakly inhibited AChE and BChE, which retained >50% residual activity at 10 µM, except for 3a, which inhibited BChE with an IC50 value of 16.1 µM. Interestingly, 3e, 3f, and 3n inhibited BACE-1 with IC50 values of 8.63, 9.92, and 8.47 µM, respectively, which were lower than the IC50 of the quercetin reference. Compounds 3o and 3s were found to be reversible competitive inhibitors of MAO-A and MAO-B, respectively, with Ki values of 0.35 ± 0.074 and 1.97 ± 0.65 µM, respectively. Moreover, compounds 3e, 3f, and 3n were effective BACE-1 inhibitors. The lead molecules were further investigated by molecular docking studies to elucidate the binding interactions with the target enzymes.
Notes on Common Misconceptions in Microplastics Removal from Water
Authors: Krystynik Pavel , Strunakova Katarina , Syc Michal , Kluson Petr
Published: June 2021

Occurrence of microplastics in the environment has become a serious problem with too many variables and unknowns regarding their relationship not only with human health but also with other parts of the environment. The toxic and ecotoxic properties are still a subject of interest and the scientific attitude to their threat is not unified. There are numerous review papers which report on microplastic particles occurrence in water, but similarly complex reviews on methods of their removal are not that frequent. This paper aims to provide a brief overview summarizing the most tested methods of microplastics removal and intends to critically evaluate them accordingly and advert to their discrepancies.
Investigation of the Long-Term Stability of Different Polymers and Their Blends with PEO to Produce Gel Polymer Electrolytes for Non-Toxic Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Dotter Marius , Storck Jan Lukas , Surjawidjaja Michelle , Adabra Sonia , Grothe Timo
Published: June 2021

The electrolyte for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is subject of constant innovation, as the problems of leakage and drying greatly reduce the long-term stability of a device. One possible way to solve these problems is the use of gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) with a gelling structure, which offer different advantages based on the used polymers. Here, potential GPE systems based on dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as solvent for low-cost, non-toxic and environmentally friendly DSSCs were investigated comparatively. In order to observe a potential improvement in long-term stability, the efficiencies of DSSCs with different GPEs, consisting of polyacrylonitrile (PAN), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and their blends with poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO), were investigated over a period of 120 days. The results indicate that blending the polymers with PEO achieves better results concerning long-term stability and overall efficiency. Especially the mixtures with PAN and PVDF show only slight signs of deterioration after 120 days of measurement.
Security Assessment of Agriculture IoT (AIoT) Applications
Authors: Kristen Erwin , Kloibhofer Reinhard , Díaz Vicente Hernández , Castillejo Pedro
Published: June 2021

Cybersecurity is an important field in our digital world. It protects computer systems and communication networks against theft or sabotage of information to guarantee trouble-free operation in a trustworthy working environment. This article gives an overview of a cybersecurity assessment process and an appropriate Cybersecurity Management (CSM) implementation for future digital agriculture applications. The cybersecurity assessment follows the IEC 62443 cybersecurity standard for Industrial Automation Control Systems (IACS), adapted to Agriculture Automation Control Systems (AACS). However, the research results showed application differences; thus, an expansion of the standard is necessary to fill the existing open security gaps in agriculture. Agriculture differs from industrial control systems because of the outdoor located field area, which requires other forms of security. An appropriate cybersecurity standard for the agriculture domain is not currently available. However, such a standard will be necessary to define generally applicable procedures to protect agricultural assets against cyberattacks. The cybersecurity standards and regulations existing today (2021) are not sufficient for securing the agriculture domain against new and domain-specific cyberattacks. This article describes some of the cyber vulnerabilities identified and provides initial recommendations for addressing them.
Urbanization and Winter Precipitation: A Case Study Analysis of Land Surface Sensitivity
Authors: Johnson Bradford D. , Williams Marcus D. , Shepherd J. Marshall
Published: June 2021

Urban modification of precipitation regimes is well documented in the urban climate literature. Studies investigating urbanization and non-convective precipitation, specifically winter precipitation, are limited. The theoretical framework here argues that the collective influence of urbanization extends beyond traditional city limits and the surrounding rural areas and can impact regional climate in non-adjacent cities. This paper utilizes the weather research and forecasting model (WRF-ARW) to simulate a cold-season synoptic system over the Northeastern United States over a variety of urban land surface scenarios. This case study centers on the potential boundary layer urban heat island effect on the lower troposphere and its ability to impact winter precipitation type at the local to regional scales. Results show a significant reduction in temperatures near the modified surface and subtle reductions over adjacent urban areas. When surface wind speeds are less than 5 ms−1, the boundary layer heat island increases air temperatures on the order of 3–4 °C at altitudes up to 925 mb. When combined with encroaching warm air near 850 mb during transitional precipitation events, the boundary layer heat island increases the thickness of the melting layer and consequently exposes falling hydrometeors to longer melting duration and phase change. Model simulations also show regional connections through remote temperature and relative humidity changes in urban areas removed from reforested areas.
Air Mercury Monitoring at the Baikal Area
Authors: Mashyanov Nikolay , Obolkin Vladimir , Pogarev Sergey , Ryzhov Vladimir , Sholupov Sergey , Potemkin Vladimir , Molozhnikova Elena , Khodzher Tamara
Published: June 2021

The GMOS (Global Mercury Observation System) project has the overall goal to develop a coordinated observing system to monitor mercury on a global scale. Here we present the long-term (2011–2020) air mercury monitoring data obtained at the Listvyanka station located at a shore of Lake Baikal, Siberia. The long-term monitoring shows obvious seasonal variation of the background mercury concentration in air, which increases in the cold and decreases in the warm season. The short-term anomalies are associated with the wind carrying the air from the industrial areas where several big coal-fired power plants are located. A positive correlation between the mercury, SO2 and NO2 concentrations is observed both in the short-term variations and in the monthly average concentrations. The analysis of forward and backward trajectories obtained with the HYSPLIT model demonstrates revealing of the mercury emissions sources. During the cruise of 2018, the continuous air mercury survey over Lake Baikal covered 1800 km. The average mercury concentration over Baikal is notably less in comparison with the average value obtained at the onshore Listvyanka station during the same days of the cruise. That can lead to the conclusion that Baikal is a significant sink of the atmospheric mercury.
Long-Term eBC Measurements with the Use of MAAP in the Polluted Urban Atmosphere (Poland)
Authors: Zioła Natalia , Błaszczak Barbara , Klejnowski Krzysztof
Published: June 2021

In recent years, black carbon (BC) has been gaining more attention due to the diversity of anthropogenic sources and the harmful effects on human health, environment, and climate. In this paper, for the first time in Poland, the results of long-term measurements of eBC concentrations (2009–2020) at the urban background station in Zabrze (southern Poland) are presented. A Multi-Angle Absorption Photometer (MAAP) was used, which enables the measurement of eBC concentration in fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The mean concentration of eBC over the 11-year period (3.82 μg·m−3) was higher compared to the values recorded at most European urban stations. Annual averaged eBC levels showed a downward trend and clear seasonal variations, which was caused mainly by changes in the intensity of anthropogenic emissions. The impact of meteorological parameters, in particular air temperature and wind speed, which determine the intensity of emissions and the conditions of pollutant dispersion, was not without significance. The work additionally attempts to assess the possible impact of remedial actions carried out in Zabrze over the last decade. The results showed that modernization in industry and heating and maintenance of green areas potentially had the most important impact on the decline in eBC concentrations.