bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Perspectives in Antiviral Research
Authors: Tarasova Olga A.
Published: September 2023

Studies on virus–host interactions are of high significance for a number of reasons [...]
Disruption of Z-Disc Function Promotes Mechanical Dysfunction in Human Myocardium: Evidence for a Dual Myofilament Modulatory Role by Alpha-Actinin 2
Authors: Rodriguez Garcia Michelle , Schmeckpeper Jeffrey , Landim-Vieira Maicon , Coscarella Isabella Leite , Fang Xuan , Ma Weikang , Spran Payton A. , Yuan Shengyao , Qi Lin , Kahmini Aida Rahimi , Shoemaker M. Benjamin , Atkinson James B. , Kekenes-Huskey Peter M. , Irving Thomas C. , Chase Prescott Bryant , Knollmann Björn C. , Pinto Jose Renato
Published: September 2023

The ACTN2 gene encodes α-actinin 2, located in the Z-disc of the sarcomeres in striated muscle. In this study, we sought to investigate the effects of an ACTN2 missense variant of unknown significance (p.A868T) on cardiac muscle structure and function. Left ventricular free wall samples were obtained at the time of cardiac transplantation from a heart failure patient with the ACTN2 A868T heterozygous variant. This variant is in the EF 3–4 domain known to interact with titin and α-actinin. At the ultrastructural level, ACTN2 A868T cardiac samples presented small structural changes in cardiomyocytes when compared to healthy donor samples. However, contractile mechanics of permeabilized ACTN2 A868T variant cardiac tissue displayed higher myofilament Ca2+ sensitivity of isometric force, reduced sinusoidal stiffness, and faster rates of tension redevelopment at all Ca2+ levels. Small-angle X-ray diffraction indicated increased separation between thick and thin filaments, possibly contributing to changes in muscle kinetics. Molecular dynamics simulations indicated that while the mutation does not significantly impact the structure of α-actinin on its own, it likely alters the conformation associated with titin binding. Our results can be explained by two Z-disc mediated communication pathways: one pathway that involves α-actinin’s interaction with actin, affecting thin filament regulation, and the other pathway that involves α-actinin’s interaction with titin, affecting thick filament activation. This work establishes the role of α-actinin 2 in modulating cross-bridge kinetics and force development in the human myocardium as well as how it can be involved in the development of cardiac disease.
LQFM289: Electrochemical and Computational Studies of a New Trimetozine Analogue for Anxiety Treatment
Authors: Pereira Jhon K. A. , Costa André G. C. , Rodrigues Edson S. B. , Macêdo Isaac Y. L. , Pereira Marx O. A. , Menegatti Ricardo , de Oliveira Severino C. B. , Guimarães Freddy , Lião Luciano M. , Sabino José R. , de S. Gil Eric
Published: September 2023

This study employs electrochemical and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculation approaches to investigate the potential of a novel analogue of trimetozine (TMZ) antioxidant profile. The correlation between oxidative stress and psychological disorders indicates that antioxidants may be an effective alternative treatment option. Butylatedhydroxytoluene (BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant widely used in industry. The BHT-TMZ compound derived from molecular hybridization, known as LQFM289, has shown promising results in early trials, and this study aims to elucidate its electrochemical properties to further support its potential as a therapeutic agent. The electrochemical behavior of LQFM289 was investigated using voltammetry and a mechanism for the redox process was proposed based on the compound’s behavior. LQFM289 exhibits two distinct oxidation peaks: the first peak, Ep1a ≈ 0.49, corresponds to the oxidation of the phenolic fraction (BHT), and the second peak, Ep2a ≈ 1.2 V (vs. Ag/AgCl/KClsat), denotes the oxidation of the amino group from morpholine. Electroanalysis was used to identify the redox potentials of the compound, providing insight into its reactivity and stability in different environments. A redox mechanism was proposed based on the resulting peak potentials. The DFT calculation elucidates the electronic structure of LQFM289, resembling the precursors of molecular hybridization (BHT and TMZ), which may also dictate the pharmacophoric performance.
Antioxidants Prevent Iron Accumulation and Lipid Peroxidation, but Do Not Correct Autophagy Dysfunction or Mitochondrial Bioenergetics in Cellular Models of BPAN
Authors: Suárez-Carrillo Alejandra , Álvarez-Córdoba Mónica , Romero-González Ana , Talaverón-Rey Marta , Povea-Cabello Suleva , Cilleros-Holgado Paula , Piñero-Pérez Rocío , Reche-López Diana , Gómez-Fernández David , Romero-Domínguez José Manuel , Munuera-Cabeza Manuel , Díaz Antonio , González-Granero Susana , García-Verdugo José Manuel , Sánchez-Alcázar José A.
Published: September 2023

Neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation (NBIA) is a group of rare neurogenetic disorders frequently associated with iron accumulation in the basal nuclei of the brain. Among NBIA subtypes, β-propeller protein-associated neurodegeneration (BPAN) is associated with mutations in the autophagy gene WDR45. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the autophagic defects and secondary pathological consequences in cellular models derived from two patients harboring WDR45 mutations. Both protein and mRNA expression levels of WDR45 were decreased in patient-derived fibroblasts. In addition, the increase of LC3B upon treatments with autophagy inducers or inhibitors was lower in mutant cells compared to control cells, suggesting decreased autophagosome formation and impaired autophagic flux. A transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis showed mitochondrial vacuolization associated with the accumulation of lipofuscin-like aggregates containing undegraded material. Autophagy dysregulation was also associated with iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation. In addition, mutant fibroblasts showed altered mitochondrial bioenergetics. Antioxidants such as pantothenate, vitamin E and α-lipoic prevented lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation. However, antioxidants were not able to correct the expression levels of WDR45, neither the autophagy defect nor cell bioenergetics. Our study demonstrated that WDR45 mutations in BPAN cellular models impaired autophagy, iron metabolism and cell bioenergetics. Antioxidants partially improved cell physiopathology; however, autophagy and cell bioenergetics remained affected.
Exposing Salmonella Senftenberg and Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Poultry Farms to Formaldehyde and Lingonberry Extract at Low Concentrations
Authors: Choroszy-Król Irena , Futoma-Kołoch Bożena , Kuźnik Klaudia , Wojnicz Dorota , Tichaczek-Goska Dorota , Frej-Mądrzak Magdalena , Jama-Kmiecik Agnieszka , Sarowska Jolanta
Published: September 2023

European Union (EU) countries strive to improve the quality and safety of food of animal origin. Food production depends on a good microbiological quality of fodder. However, feed can be a reservoir or vector of pathogenic microorganisms, including Salmonella or Escherichia coli bacteria. Salmonella spp. and E. coli are the two most important food-borne pathogens of public health concern. Contamination with these pathogens, mainly in the poultry sector, can lead to serious food-borne diseases. Both microorganisms can form biofilms on abiotic and biotic surfaces. The cells that form biofilms are less sensitive to disinfectants, which in turn makes it difficult to eliminate them from various surfaces. Because the usage of formaldehyde in animal feed is prohibited in European countries, the replacement of this antibacterial with natural plant products seems very promising. This study aimed to assess the inhibitory effectiveness of Vaccinium vitis-idaea extract against biofilm produced by model Salmonella enterica and E. coli strains. We found that formaldehyde could effectively kill both species of bacterial cells in biofilm, while the lingonberry extract showed some antibiofilm effect on S. enterica serovar Senftenberg. In conclusion, finding natural plant products that are effective against biofilms formed by Gram-negative bacteria is still challenging.
The Local Anaesthetic Procaine Prodrugs ProcCluster® and Procaine Hydrochloride Impair SARS-CoV-2 Replication and Egress In Vitro
Authors: Häring Clio , Jungwirth Johannes , Schroeder Josefine , Löffler Bettina , Engert Beatrice , Ehrhardt Christina
Published: September 2023

As vaccination efforts against SARS-CoV-2 progress in many countries, there is still an urgent need for efficient antiviral treatment strategies for those with severer disease courses, and lately, considerable efforts have been undertaken to repurpose existing drugs as antivirals. The local anaesthetic procaine has been investigated for antiviral properties against several viruses over the past decades. Here, we present data on the inhibitory effect of the procaine prodrugs ProcCluster® and procaine hydrochloride on SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro. Both procaine prodrugs limit SARS-CoV-2 progeny virus titres as well as reduce interferon and cytokine responses in a proportional manner to the virus load. The addition of procaine during the early stages of the SARS-CoV-2 replication cycle in a cell culture first limits the production of subgenomic RNA transcripts, and later affects the replication of the viral genomic RNA. Interestingly, procaine additionally exerts a prominent effect on SARS-CoV-2 progeny virus release when added late during the replication cycle, when viral RNA production and protein production are already largely completed.
Evaluation of the Potential Impact of In Silico Humanization on VHH Dynamics
Authors: Martins Carla , Diharce Julien , Nadaradjane Aravindan Arun , de Brevern Alexandre G.
Published: September 2023

Camelids have the peculiarity of having classical antibodies composed of heavy and light chains as well as single-chain antibodies. They have lost their light chains and one heavy-chain domain. This evolutionary feature means that their terminal heavy-chain domain, VH, called VHH here, has no partner and forms an independent domain. The VHH is small and easy to express alone; it retains thermodynamic and interaction properties. Consequently, VHHs have garnered significant interest from both biotechnological and pharmaceutical perspectives. However, due to their origin in camelids, they cannot be used directly on humans. A humanization step is needed before a possible use. However, changes, even in the constant parts of the antibodies, can lead to a loss of quality. A dedicated tool, Llamanade, has recently been made available to the scientific community. In a previous paper, we already showed the different types of VHH dynamics. Here, we have selected a representative VHH and tested two humanization hypotheses to accurately assess the potential impact of these changes. This example shows that despite the non-negligible change (1/10th of residues) brought about by humanization, the effect is not drastic, and the humanized VHH retains conformational properties quite similar to those of the camelid VHH.
Revealing the Minimum Energy Pathways for Formamide Hydrogenation Reactions in the Presence of Platinum and Platinum–Vanadium Clusters: A Quantum Chemical DFT/Nudged Elastic Band Study
Authors: Panina Natalia S. , Klyukin Ilya N. , Buslaeva Tatyana M. , Fischer Andrei I.
Published: September 2023

A detailed study on the stages of catalytic reactions involving platinum and platinum-vanadium clusters has been carried out. Minimum energy pathways (MEP) of reactions have been constructed via the DFT/PBE0/def2tzvp method using NEB functional and optimized structures, and points of minima and transition states have been calculated. A two-step process for the conversion of formamide to methylamine under the action of H2 has been considered as a test reaction. The energy barriers of this reaction, not previously described in the literature, have been evaluated. It has been shown that the main changes in the structural characteristics of the reagents, as well as the migration of single H atoms from one metal center of clusters to another or to an organic substrate, are initiated at the molecular level by shifts corresponding to the vectors of normal vibrations of systems in transition states.
Combined Transcriptome and Proteome Analysis of the Protein Composition of the Brochosomes of the Leafhopper Nephotettix cincticeps
Authors: Wu Wei , Ye Zhuangxin , Mao Qianzhuo , Shan Hong-Wei , Li Jun-Min , Chen Jian-Ping
Published: September 2023

Brochosomes, unique coatings on the integuments of Cicadellidae, are synthesized in specialized glandular sections of Malpighian tubules. However, limited knowledge exists regarding the protein composition of brochosomes. In this study, we conducted transcriptomic and proteomic profiling to characterize the brochosome protein composition in the rice green leafhopper Nephotettix cincticeps. Brochosomes were collected from the forewings of leafhoppers using ultrasonic treatment, allowing for more effective brochosome collection and shaking treatment, resulting in purer brochosomes. Transcriptome sequencing analysis identified 106 genes specifically expressed in the Malpighian tubules; combined with proteomic data, we identified 22 candidate brochosome proteins. These proteins were classified into 12 brochosomins (BSM) and 10 brochosome-associated proteins (BSAP) based on previous research. Conserved motif analysis and functional predictions unveiled unique motifs in each BSM, while BSAP appeared to play a crucial role in BSM folding and pathogen resistance. Comparative analysis of other Hemiptera species demonstrated that all BSM and some BSAP are specific to the Cicadellidae family. Our findings could contribute to understanding the mechanism of brochosome synthesis, its function, and evolutionary genesis.
Using MALDI-TOF MS to Identify Mosquitoes from Senegal and the Origin of Their Blood Meals
Authors: Fall Fatou Kiné , Diarra Adama Zan , Bouganali Charles , Sokhna Cheikh , Parola Philippe
Published: September 2023

Mosquitoes are arthropods that represent a real public health problem in Africa. Morphology and molecular biology techniques are usually used to identify different mosquito species. In recent years, an innovative tool, matrix-assisted desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), has been used to identify many arthropods quickly and at low cost, where equipment is available. We evaluated the ability of MALDI-TOF MS to identify mosquitoes collected in Senegal and stored for several months in silica gel, and to determine the origin of their blood meal. A total of 582 mosquitoes were collected and analysed. We obtained 329/582 (56.52%) MALDI-TOF MS good-quality spectra from mosquito legs and 123/157 (78.34%) good-quality spectra from engorged abdomens. We updated our home-made MALDI-TOF MS arthropod spectra database by adding 23 spectra of five mosquito species from Senegal that had been identified morphologically and molecularly. These included legs from Anopheles gambiae, Anopheles arabiensis, Anopheles cf. rivulorum, Culex nebulosus, Anopheles funestus, and three spectra from abdomens engorged with human blood. Having updated the database, all mosquitoes tested by MALDI-TOF MS were identified with scores greater than or equal to 1.7 as An. gambiae (n = 64), Anopheles coluzzii (n = 12), An. arabiensis (n = 1), An. funestus (n = 7), An. cf rivulorum (n = 1), Lutzia tigripes (n = 3), Cx. nebulosus (n = 211), Culex quinquefasciatus (n = 2), Culex duttoni (n = 1), Culex perfescus (n = 1), Culex tritaeniorhynchus (n = 1), and Aedes aegypti (n = 2). Blood meal identification by MALDI-TOF MS revealed that mosquitoes had fed on the blood of humans (n = 97), cows (n = 6), dogs (n = 2), goats (n = 1), sheep (n = 1), and bats (n = 1). Mixed meals were also detected. These results confirm that MALDI-TOF MS is a promising technique for identifying mosquitoes and the origin of their blood meal.
A Dynamic Control Model of the Blades Position for the Vertical-Axis Wind Generator by a Program Method
Authors: Stoyanov Ivaylo , Iliev Teodor , Fazylova Alina , Yestemessova Gulsara
Published: September 2023

This article discusses the construction of a dynamic model for controlling the position of the blades of a vertical-axis wind generator using an automatic approach; a method is presented that relates the rotation of the motor to the position of the blades, which allows the optimization of the operation of the control system. In the research process, an automatic approach is used, which makes it possible to carry out numerical calculations that predict the behavior of the system at various values of motor rotation. The model allows us to analyze the dependence of the position of the blades on the rotation of the motor and determine the optimal parameters of the mathematical control model. The main goal of our study is to develop a mathematical model of the mechanism for further adjustment of the wind turbine blade position control system depending on the wind speed.
Is Pain Perception Communicated through Mothers? Maternal Pain Catastrophizing Scores Are Associated with Children’s Postoperative Circumcision Pain
Authors: Akdeniz Sevda , Pece Ahmet Haydar , Kusderci Hatice Selcuk , Dogru Serkan , Tulgar Serkan , Suren Mustafa , Okan Ismail
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relation of maternal pain catastrophizing score with children who underwent circumcision postoperative pain. This prospective cohort study was performed between March 2022 and March 2023 at Samsun University, Turkey. Demographic characteristics of mothers and children, mothers’ education level, presence of chronic pain, and Beck Depression Inventory scores were recorded preoperatively. Pain catastrophizing was assessed by applying the pain catastrophizing scale (PCS) to the mothers of children who experienced postoperative circumcision pain. The mothers were divided into low-pain catastrophizing (Group 1) and high-pain catastrophizing (Group 2) group. A total of 197 mothers and sons participated in the study, with 86 (43.6%) in Group 1 and 111 (56.4%) in Group 2. Significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of the mothers’ PCS scores (p < 0.001), education levels (p = 0.004), chronic pain scores (p = 0.022), and Beck Depression Inventory scores (p < 0.001). Our findings showed that children with high pain catastrophizing mothers experience greater postoperative pain than those with low pain catastrophizing mothers. This may be attributable to a mother’s specific cognitive style for coping with pain, which is associated with the child’s responses to painful experiences.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) in Mild Cognitive Impairment: Effects on Cognitive Functions—A Systematic Review
Authors: Sharbafshaaer Minoo , Gigi Ilaria , Lavorgna Luigi , Esposito Sabrina , Bonavita Simona , Tedeschi Gioacchino , Esposito Fabrizio , Trojsi Francesca
Published: September 2023

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique also used as a non-pharmacological intervention against cognitive impairment. The purpose of the present review was to summarize what is currently known about the effectiveness of rTMS intervention on different cognitive domains in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and to address potential neuromodulation approaches in combination with electroencephalography (EEG) and neuroimaging, especially functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). In this systematic review, we consulted three main databases (PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus), and Google Scholar was selected for the gray literature search. The PRISMA flowchart drove the studies’ inclusion. The selection process ensured that only high-quality studies were included; after removing duplicate papers, explicit ratings were given based on the quality classification as high (A), moderate (B), or low (C), considering factors such as risks of bias, inaccuracies, inconsistencies, lack of direction, and publication bias. Seven full-text articles fulfilled the stated inclusion, reporting five double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled studies, a case study, and a randomized crossover trial. The results of the reviewed studies suggested that rTMS in MCI patients is safe and effective for enhancing cognitive functions, thus making it a potential therapeutic approach for MCI patients. Changes in functional connectivity within the default mode network (DMN) after targeted rTMS could represent a valuable indicator of treatment response. Finally, high-frequency rTMS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) has been shown to significantly enhance cognitive functions, such as executive performance, together with the increase of functional connectivity within frontoparietal networks. The main limitations were the number of included studies and the exclusion of studies using intermittent theta-burst stimulation, used in studies on Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, neuroimaging techniques in combination with rTMS have been shown to be useful for future network-based, fMRI-guided therapeutic approaches.
Predictors of Improvement in Concomitant Tricuspid Regurgitation Following Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Mitral Valve Repair
Authors: Gröger Matthias , Hirsch Kai , Felbel Dominik , Paukovitsch Michael , Schneider Leonhard Moritz , Markovic Sinisa , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Keßler Mirjam
Published: September 2023

Background: Improvement in concomitant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) after mitral valve transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (M-TEER) for mitral regurgitation (MR) occurs frequently; however factors determining the post-procedural course of TR are not well understood. We investigated the parameters associated with TR improvement after M-TEER. Methods and Results: A total of 300 patients were consecutively included in this retrospective analysis. MR and TR severity as well as heart chamber metrics were assessed before the procedure and at follow-up. Device success was achieved in 97.3% of patients. TR decreased in 30.2% of patients. Patients with improved TR were more often female, had more severe TR at baseline, and their right heart dimensions at baseline trended to be smaller. Female sex (odds ratio (OR) 2.997), baseline MR-Grade (OR 3.181) and baseline TR-Grade (OR 2.653) independently predicted TR reduction. More pronounced right heart reverse remodeling was observed in patients with improved TR. TR regression independently predicted lower mortality (hazard ratio (HR) 0.333, 95% confidence interval 0.112–0.996, p = 0.049). Conclusions: A reduction in concomitant TR severity after M-TEER occurred mainly in females and in patients with high-grade TR and MR at baseline. TR regression is associated with better survival after M-TEER.
Heart Failure Remote Monitoring: A Review and Implementation How-To
Authors: Kobe Elizabeth A. , McVeigh Todd , Hameed Ishaque , Fudim Marat
Published: September 2023

Heart failure (HF) is a significant clinical and financial burden worldwide. Remote monitoring (RM) devices capable of identifying early physiologic changes in decompensation have the potential to reduce the HF burden. However, few trials have discussed at length the practical aspects of implementing RM in real-world clinical practice. The present paper reviews current RM devices and clinical trials, focusing on patient populations, outcomes, data collection, storage, and management, and describes the implementation of an RM device in clinical practice, providing a pragmatic and adaptable framework.
Vision-Based Flying Obstacle Detection for Avoiding Midair Collisions: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vera-Yanez Daniel , Pereira António , Rodrigues Nuno , Molina José Pascual , García Arturo S. , Fernández-Caballero Antonio
Published: September 2023

This paper presents a systematic review of articles on computer-vision-based flying obstacle detection with a focus on midair collision avoidance. Publications from the beginning until 2022 were searched in Scopus, IEEE, ACM, MDPI, and Web of Science databases. From the initial 647 publications obtained, 85 were finally selected and examined. The results show an increasing interest in this topic, especially in relation to object detection and tracking. Our study hypothesizes that the widespread access to commercial drones, the improvements in single-board computers, and their compatibility with computer vision libraries have contributed to the increase in the number of publications. The review also shows that the proposed algorithms are mainly tested using simulation software and flight simulators, and only 26 papers report testing with physical flying vehicles. This systematic review highlights other gaps to be addressed in future work. Several identified challenges are related to increasing the success rate of threat detection and testing solutions in complex scenarios.
Grounding Intuitive Physics in Perceptual Experience
Authors: Vicovaro Michele
Published: September 2023

This review article explores the foundation of laypeople’s understanding of the physical world rooted in perceptual experience. Beginning with a concise historical overview of the study of intuitive physics, the article presents the hypothesis that laypeople possess accurate internalized representations of physical laws. A key aspect of this hypothesis is the contention that correct representations of physical laws emerge in ecological experimental conditions, where the scenario being examined resembles everyday life experiences. The article critically examines empirical evidence both supporting and challenging this claim, revealing that despite everyday-life-like conditions, fundamental misconceptions often persist. Many of these misconceptions can be attributed to a domain-general heuristic that arises from the overgeneralization of perceptual-motor experiences with physical objects. To conclude, the article delves into ongoing controversies and highlights promising future avenues in the field of intuitive physics, including action–judgment dissociations, insights from developmental psychology, and computational models integrating artificial intelligence.
Data-Driven Parameter Estimation of Nonlinear Ship Manoeuvring Model in Shallow Water Using Truncated Least Squares Support Vector Machines
Authors: Xu Haitong , Guedes Soares C.
Published: September 2023

A data-driven method, the truncated LS-SVM, is proposed for estimating the nondimensional hydrodynamic coefficients of a nonlinear manoeuvring model. Experimental data collected in a shallow water towing tank are utilized in this study. To assess the accuracy and robustness of the truncated LS-SVM method, different test data sizes are selected as the training set. The identified nondimensional hydrodynamic coefficients are presented, as well as the corresponding parameter uncertainty and confidence intervals. The validation is carried out using the reference data, and statistical measures, such as the correlation coefficient, centred RMS difference, and standard deviation are employed to quantify the similarity. The results demonstrate that the truncated LS-SVM method effectively models the hydrodynamic force prediction problems with a large training set, reducing parameter uncertainty and yielding more convincing results.
Study on the Optimal Design of a Shark-like Shape AUV Based on the CFD Method
Authors: Lu Yu , Yuan Jianping , Si Qiaorui , Ji Peifeng , Tian Ding , Liu Jinfeng
Published: September 2023

In previous AUV designs, the thrusters were often placed outside the vehicle, resulting in their performance being significantly influenced by the shape of the vehicle. Additionally, this placement also leads to the generation of strong radiated noise that propagates in all directions, making noise reduction challenging. Taking inspiration from the shape of sharks, this paper proposes a slender, shark-inspired AUV. The model features a continuous passageway in the middle where a pump-jet thruster is installed to provide propulsion. The walls of the passageway are then covered with sound-absorbing materials to reduce radiated noise. To address the problem of low design efficiency caused by multiple design parameters, a multi-objective optimization method is proposed to optimize the shape of the AUV. The performance targets of speed, displacement, and energy consumption are determined as objective functions, and a multi-island genetic algorithm is used as the optimization algorithm to build the multi-objective optimization process. An automated optimization platform was then developed which integrates parametric modeling, mesh partitioning, the CFD calculation, and the optimized design. To enhance the efficiency of optimization, a surrogate model was developed to approximate the CFD calculation. Using the optimal Latin hypercube method, experimental factors were designed, and a surrogate model was constructed based on the radial basis function approach. Following optimization, the resistance was reduced by 9.1%, while the displacement volume was increased by 10.7% and energy consumption was decreased by 6.3%. By analyzing the velocity and entropy production distribution of the AUV, the effectiveness of the optimization method was verified.
A Preliminary Assessment of Microalgal Diets for Echinopluteus Larvae Culture of the Sea Urchin Sphaerechinus granularis (Lamarck, 1816) (Echinoidea: Toxopneustidae)
Authors: Luís Ricardo , José Ricardo , Castro João , Andrade Carlos
Published: September 2023

Sea urchins play an important role in coastal marine ecosystems and are an economically valuable resource for their gonads (roe or uni). Increased demand by Asian and European countries caused overfishing of wild stocks resulting in a sharp decline of sea urchin populations. The increased efforts in developing cost-effective protocols are focused on larval development up to pre- and post-metamorphosis stages, as they are one of the main difficulties of echinoculture. This is a preliminary study to evaluate the influence of microalgal varying diet rationing on larval development, growth, and survivorship at pre-metamorphosis of Sphaerechinus granularis echinopluteus (30 days post-fertilization). Three microalgae diets based on Dunaliella tertiolecta and Rhodomonas marina and the combination of both species were tested. Each diet used three ration treatments: low ration (500–3000 cells⋅ml−1); medium ration (1000–6000 cells⋅ml−1); and high ration (4000–24,000 cells⋅ml−1), which were cell-density adjusted to larval development. Assays used three triplicated treatments in 8 L cylindrical–conical glass incubators. Results showed that the survival of S. granularis echinopluteus was positively influenced by diets of lower cellular densities and a combined microalgae diet. Adoption of this type of diet regime is expected to improve larval production and provide the groundwork for future research on S. granularis in aquaculture.
Species Identification and Tempo-Spatial Distribution of Anchovy Using Multi-Frequency
Authors: Park Geunchang , Oh Wooseok , Yoon Euna , Lee Hyoungbeen , Oh Sunyoung , Lee Sara , Lee Chang keun , Khim Jong Seong , Lee Kyounghoon
Published: September 2023

In this study, we identified the echo signals of anchovies on echograms using the dB-difference method; additionally, the daytime and nighttime distribution characteristics of anchovies were determined. Using the difference in frequency characteristics of 18, 38, 70, 120, and 200 kHz, the dB-difference intervals of −2.1 dB ≤ ΔMVBS18–38 ≤ 4.4 dB, −9.7 dB ≤ ΔMVBS70–38 ≤ 1.3 dB, −10.2 dB ≤ ΔMVBS120–38 ≤ 2.3 dB, and −10.7 dB ≤ ΔMVBS200–38 ≤ 0.3 dB were set to extract the echo signals of anchovies. The results revealed that anchovies showed a relatively higher distribution in the coast than in the open sea. In February, the average density of anchovies was observed to be 3.43 g/m2, whereas in May, it was observed to be 6.02 g/m2. Also, anchovies were found to be mainly distributed at 30-70 m water depths during the day, and at 30–50 m water depths during the night.
Seven New Species of Eurotiales (Ascomycota) Isolated from Tidal Flat Sediments in China
Authors: Liu Chang , Wang Xin-Cun , Yu Zhi-He , Zhuang Wen-Ying , Zeng Zhao-Qing
Published: September 2023

Tidal flats have been reported to contain many microorganisms and play a critical role in maintaining biodiversity. In surveys of filamentous fungi from tidal flat sediments in China, seven new species of Eurotiales were discovered and described. Morphological characteristics and DNA sequence analyses of combined datasets of the BenA, CaM, and RPB2 regions support their placements and recognition as new species. Aspergillus liaoningensis sp. nov. and A. plumeriae sp. nov. belong to sections Candidi and Flavipedes of subgenus Circumdati, and A. subinflatus sp. nov. is a member of section Cremei of subgenus Cremei. Penicillium danzhouense sp. nov., P. tenue sp. nov., and P. zhanjiangense sp. nov. are attributed to sections Exilicaulis and Lanata-Divaricata of subgenus Aspergilloides. Talaromyces virens sp. nov. is in section Talaromyces. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of these novel taxa are provided. Their differences from close relatives were compared and discussed.
Forecasting of NIFTY 50 Index Price by Using Backward Elimination with an LSTM Model
Authors: Jafar Syed Hasan , Akhtar Shakeb , El-Chaarani Hani , Khan Parvez Alam , Binsaddig Ruaa
Published: September 2023

Predicting trends in the stock market is becoming complex and uncertain. In response, various artificial intelligence solutions have emerged. A significant solution for predicting the trends of a stock’s volatile and chaotic nature is drawn from deep learning. The present study’s objective is to compare and predict the closing price of the NIFTY 50 index through two significant deep learning methods—long short-term memory (LSTM) and backward elimination LSTM (BE-LSTM)—using 15 years’ worth of per day data obtained from Bloomberg. This study has considered the variables of date, high, open, low, close volume, as well as the 14-period relative strength index (RSI), to predict the closing price. The results of the comparative study show that backward elimination LSTM performs better than the LSTM model for predicting the NIFTY 50 index price for the next 30 days, with an accuracy of 95%. In conclusion, the proposed model has significantly improved the prediction of the NIFTY 50 index price.
A Pilot Study to Assess the Effects of News Coverage Articles about Security Incidents on Stock Prices in Korea
Authors: Han Se-Hyeon
Published: September 2023

This study was conducted to assess the effects of security incidents on the stock prices of firms in Korea. A content analysis of news coverage articles about security incidents was performed. The research questions (RQs) of the current study were as follows: RQ1: this study evaluated whether the news coverage of a security incident can influence an investor’s decision to buy or sell a stock; and RQ2: the study also analyzed whether the type of industry, the amount of damage caused by the incident, and the specific security incident itself would affect how investors assessed a stock’s value. The results of the study indicate the following: (1) news coverage articles about security incidents have a significant effect on stock prices; and (2) the degree of such an effect varies depending on the tone, theme, and category of the news coverage. A more negative tone was associated with a decrease in stock prices. Less negative and neutral tones were associated with an increase in stock prices. In particular, a neutral tone was associated with an increase in stock prices, which was commonly seen in most of the firms experiencing security incidents. Furthermore, the number of news coverage articles about security incidents had no relationship to variations in stock prices. In firms experiencing security incidents, variations in stock prices varied depending on the types of industry, the types of damages, and the type of incident. In conclusion, the current study used an event study and a content analysis of news coverage articles about security incidents to assess their effects on the stock prices of firms. Further studies are warranted to establish the feasibility of this approach in a real-world setting.
Effect of the Duration of Membership in the World Trade Organization on Trademark Applications
Authors: Gnangnon Sena Kimm
Published: September 2023

This article has examined the effect of the duration of membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO) on the submission of trademarks by countries’ residents. The analysis used an unbalanced sample of 124 countries (including developed and developing countries) and, primarily, the binominal regression approach supplemented by the generalized method of moments estimator, which was utilized for the robustness check. Results have shown that the effect of the duration of WTO membership on trademarks works through the channel of trade costs. This effect is positive for less developed economies and negative for relatively advanced economies. These findings reflect the fact that as countries spend more time as WTO members, they experience a higher submission of patents in relation to trademarks, especially if they enjoy an improvement in their real per capita income (and export complex products). Furthermore, countries that receive higher Aid for Trade flows (which help to reduce trade costs) experience yet a higher number of trademark applications, but to a lesser extent than patent filings.
Towards Child-Friendly Streetscape in Migrant Workers’ Communities in China: A Social–Ecological Design Framework
Authors: Zhang Qianxi , Wang Xinkai , Loo Yat Ming , Deng Wu , Chen Weixuan , Ni Mindong , Cheng Ling
Published: September 2023

Designing child-friendly streetscapes is a pragmatic and effective approach to addressing the limited outdoor play spaces and social exclusion experienced by migrant children living in vulnerable residential areas. However, the existing research and guidelines on streetscape design lack specificity for migrant workers’ communities and fail to provide full-cycle design process guidance for real-world practices. By taking a social–ecological perspective and synthesizing the existing literature, this paper develops an integrated design framework with seven indicators to guide three stages of child-friendly streetscape regeneration in migrant workers’ communities. The effectiveness of this framework was validated by application in a case project in a typical migrant workers’ community in Ningbo, China. The results show that the social–ecological design framework can help maximize opportunities for various children’s activities on the street with limited spatial resources. It also contributes to creating inclusive streetscapes to promote social cohesion by integrating social and cultural elements, children’s participation, and place-making activities. However, institutional barriers, cultural norms, and limited resources impede children’s participation and sustainable operations, which calls for more attention to be paid to “software” building. The new framework and research findings serve as a valuable guide and reference for practitioners in the field of child-friendly environmental design, especially in the context of marginalized communities in developing countries.
The Role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Depression and Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fioranelli Massimo , Roccia Maria Grazia , Przybylek Bianca , Garo Maria Luisa
Published: September 2023

Background: Several studies have been conducted to prove the bidirectional relationship between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and depression. These two major illnesses share several common risk factors such that the development of either condition may increase the risk of the occurrence of the other. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been suggested as a reliable biomarker for depression and a strong predictor of CVD because it plays an important role in neuron survival and growth, serves as a neurotransmitter modulator, and promotes neuronal plasticity. The aim of this systematic review was to examine the bidirectional relationship between CVD and depression, focusing on the potential role of low serum BDNF levels in the development of either disease in the presence of the other. Methods: A systematic search strategy was developed using PRISMA guidelines. Results: Six studies (comprising 1251 patients) were identified, all of which examined the association between CVD and depression. Conclusions: It was found that there may be a strong association between low serum BDNF levels and the risk of post-stroke depression. However, the studies on the role of altered serum BDNF levels and other types of CVD are few. Therefore, the inverse association between depression and CVD cannot be proven.
Frost Durability of Self-Compacting Concrete Prepared with Aeolian Sand and Recycled Coarse Aggregate
Authors: Yan Hao , Liu Qing , Han Fengxia , Liu Shan , Han Tong , He Bowen
Published: September 2023

Aeolian sand (AS) and recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) can be reasonably utilized as green materials for concrete modification. The paucity of natural sand and gravel in the construction industry is anticipated to be remedied by the use of these two eco-friendly concrete ingredients. This is incredibly important for environmental protection. Study on the damage law of self-compacting concrete with the addition of AS and RCA (ARSCC) under severely cold conditions is of great significance for the promotion and implementation of this material. In this study, 12 groups of ARSCC specimens were prepared for freeze–thaw cycle experiments, with AS substitution rates of 0, 20%, 40%, and 60% as well as RCA replacement rates of 0, 25%, and 50%. Then, the degradation mechanism of ARSCC freeze–thaw damage was discussed from both macroscopic and microscopic perspectives via mass loss rate (Wn), relative dynamic modulus of elasticity (Pn), bubble spacing factor, and SEM analysis. Finally, the response surface method was utilized to determine the damage variable. A freeze–thaw damage model for ARSCC was developed based on the Weibull distribution and Grey theories. The results showed that the Pn could reflect the evolution law of the internal structure of ARSCC. Appropriate addition of AS to fill the large, harmful pores in RCA would inhibit freeze–thaw damage of ARSCC. The optimum substitution rates of AS and RCA were determined to be 20–40% and 25–50%, respectively. In addition, the values obtained from theoretical damage modeling and experiments were in good agreement. The acquired damage model had the potential to predict ARSCC damage under freeze–thaw cycles.
Effect of Deformation Conditions on Strain-Induced Precipitation of 7Mo Super-Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Xu Shiguang , He Jinshan , Zhang Runze , Zhang Fucheng , Wang Xitao
Published: September 2023

Strain-induced precipitation (SIP) behaviors of 7Mo super-austenitic stainless steel (SASS) under various deformation conditions were studied by stress relaxation tests. The research demonstrates that sigma phases are the primary SIP phases of 7Mo SASS. Generally, SIP is mainly distributed in granular shape at the boundaries of deformed grains or recrystallized grains, as well as around the deformed microstructure, such as deformation twin layers/matrix interfaces. The variation of deformation parameters can lead to changes in microstructure, therefore influencing the distribution of SIP. For instance, with the temperature increases, the SIP distribution gradually evolves from deformed grain boundaries to recrystallized grain boundaries. The average size of SIP increases with increasing temperature and strain, as well as decreasing strain rate. The SIP content also increases with increasing strain and decreasing strain rate, while exhibiting an initial rise followed by a decline with increasing temperature, reaching its maximum value at 850 °C. The presence of SIP can promote recrystallization by particle-induced nucleation (PSN) mechanism during the hot deformation process. Moreover, the boundaries of these recrystallized grains can also serve as nucleation sites for SIP, therefore promoting SIP. This process can be simplified as SIP→PSNRecrystallization→Nucleation sitesSIP. With the increase in holding time and the consumption of stored energy, the process gradually slows down, leading to the formation of a multi-layer structure, namely SIPs/Recrystallized grains/SIPs structure. Moreover, SIP at recrystallized grain boundaries can hinder the growth of recrystallized grains. Through this study, a comprehensive understanding of the SIP behaviors in 7Mo SASS under different deformation conditions has been achieved, as well as the interaction between SIP and recrystallization. This finding provides valuable insights for effective control or regulation of SIP and optimizing the hot working processes of 7Mo SASS.
Investigation of the Relationship between Permanent Deformation and Dynamic Modulus Performance for Bearing-Layer Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Ji Weidong , Meng Yunrui , Shang Yunlong , Zhou Xiwei , Xu Huining
Published: September 2023

Of major concern is the lack of correlation between the material design and structural function of asphalt pavement in China. The objective of this paper is to identify the layer in asphalt pavement where permanent deformation occurs most seriously and to propose a control index for that layer’s asphalt mixture. The permanent deformation of each layer was determined through the utilization of thickness measurements obtained from field cores. The results indicate that the reduction in thickness is more significant in the driving lane than in the ridge band and shoulder. This phenomenon can be attributed to the intensified densification and shearing deformation that arise from the combined impacts of recurrent axle loads and high temperatures. Compared to surface and base layers, the bearing layer is the primary area of concern for permanent deformation in asphalt pavement. Therefore, it is imperative to incorporate the ability of bearing-layer asphalt mixture to withstand permanent deformation as a crucial design parameter. The dynamic modulus of the bearing-layer asphalt mixture is significantly influenced by the type of asphalt, gradation, and asphalt content, compared to other design parameters. Based on the relationship established between dynamic modulus and dynamic stability, with creep rate as the intermediate term, a control standard was proposed to evaluate the permanent deformation of the bearing-layer asphalt mixture. This study can provide reasonable and effective guidance for prolonging pavement life and improving pavement performance.
A Two-Machine Learning Date Flow-Shop Scheduling Problem with Heuristics and Population-Based GA to Minimize the Makespan
Authors: Xu Jian-You , Lin Win-Chin , Chang Yu-Wei , Chung Yu-Hsiang , Chen Juin-Han , Wu Chin-Chia
Published: September 2023

This paper delves into the scheduling of the two-machine flow-shop problem with step-learning, a scenario in which job processing times decrease if they commence after their learning dates. The objective is to optimize resource allocation and task sequencing to ensure efficient time utilization and timely completion of all jobs, also known as the makespan. The identified problem is established as NP-hard due to its reduction to a single machine for a common learning date. To address this complexity, this paper introduces an initial integer programming model, followed by the development of a branch-and-bound algorithm augmented with two lemmas and a lower bound to attain an exact optimal solution. Additionally, this paper proposes four straightforward heuristics inspired by the Johnson rule, along with their enhanced counterparts. Furthermore, a population-based genetic algorithm is formulated to offer approximate solutions. The performance of all proposed methods is rigorously evaluated through numerical experimental studies.