bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graphene Nanogap Interdigitated Asymmetric Electrodes for Photodetection
Authors: Elkarous Rabiaa , Bardaoui Afrah , Borme Jérôme , Sghaier Nabil , Alpuim Pedro , Santos Diogo M. F. , Chtourou Radhouane
Published: March 2023

This work proposes a high-performance asymmetric gold/graphene/platinum photodetector. The new photodetector, operating without bias, integrates interdigitated 100 nm spaced metallic contacts that induce a built-in potential and a short carrier path, allowing an improvement in the separation and collection of the photocarriers. A chemical vapor deposition graphene layer is transferred onto the interdigitated electrodes elaborated using high-resolution electron-beam lithography. Three devices with different side dimensions (100, 1000, and 3000 µm) are fabricated, and their photoresponsivities are evaluated at different wavelengths. The 100 µm device shows the highest photoresponsivity of 358 A/W at a 400 nm illumination. These promising results confirm the proposed design’s ability to increase the photodetector’s active area, improve light absorption, and achieve high separation and collection of photogenerated carriers. This makes it of great interest for optoelectronic applications.
Serratiopeptidase Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Vascular Inflammation by Inhibiting the Expression of Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1
Authors: Yadav Vikas , Sharma Satyam , Kumar Ashutosh , Singh Sanjiv , Ravichandiran V.
Published: March 2023

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) has potent pro-inflammatory properties and acts on many cell types including vascular endothelial cells. The secretion of the cytokines MCP-1 (CCL2), interleukins, and the elevation of oxidative stress by LPS-activated vascular endothelial cells contribute substantially to the pathogenesis of vascular inflammation. However, the mechanism involving LPS-induced MCP-1, interleukins, and oxidative stress together is not well demonstrated. Serratiopeptidase (SRP) has been widely used for its anti-inflammatory effects. In this research study, our intention is to establish a potential drug candidate for vascular inflammation in cardiovascular disorder conditions. We used BALB/c mice because this is the most successful model of vascular inflammation, suggested and validated by previous research findings. Our present investigation examined the involvement of SRP in vascular inflammation caused by lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) in a BALB/c mice model. We analyzed the inflammation and changes in the aorta by H&E staining. SOD, MDA, and GPx levels were determined as per the instructions of the kit protocols. ELISA was used to measure the levels of interleukins, whereas immunohistochemistry was carried out for the evaluation of MCP-1 expression. SRP treatment significantly suppressed vascular inflammation in BALB/c mice. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that SRP significantly inhibited the LPS-induced production of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-2, IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α in aortic tissue. Furthermore, it also inhibited LPS-induced oxidative stress in the aortas of mice, whereas the expression and activity of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) decreased after SRP treatment. In conclusion, SRP has the ability to reduce LPS-induced vascular inflammation and damage by modulating MCP-1.
Eco-Friendly Electrowinning for Metals Recovery from Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
Authors: Cesiulis Henrikas , Tsyntsaru Natalia
Published: March 2023

The amount of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) has been intensely increasing over the recent decades. In this view, the efficient recovery of metals from WEEE will allow a secure supply of raw materials and will contribute to a circular economy. Among many factors currently affecting the contribution of recycling, is the lack of suitable technologies for WEEE treatment in an environmentally friendly way. Current trends in eco-friendly technologies applied for gold, silver, copper, and tin recovery by electrowinning are reviewed in this paper. In addition, a case study on the perspectives of tin electrowinning has been evaluated. Tin can be present in rather high quantities in WEEE; moreover, its price is about three times higher than that for copper. The electrorecovery of tin has been carried out in cooperation with JSC “Elektronikos perdirbimo technologijos”. The eco-friendly process based on electrowinning from citric acid-containing leachates is elaborated. The citrate-based solutions have been chosen because citric acid is considered to be an environmentally friendly component. A high deposition rate and current efficiency have been achieved at a deposition potential −0.85 V at 60 °C. However, additional steps would be beneficial to diminish the interference of metals present in the scraps, such as Pb(II) and Cu(II), on tin electrorecovery.
Fabrication of Nano-Silver–Silver Ion Composite Antibacterial Agents for Green Powder Coatings
Authors: Zhang Haiping , Cui Jixing , Zhu Jesse , Shao Yuanyuan , Zhang Hui
Published: March 2023

Nano-silver is characterized by broad-spectral, strong and stable antibacterial properties, which make it a promising material in coating applications. However, the efficiency of nano-silver is generally low in the coating of films. Here, we developed a series of highly active and durable silver ions–nano-silver antimicrobial agents for powder coatings. To optimize antimicrobial activity and durability, two different nano-silver generation methods, i.e., in situ and ex situ methods combined with different carrier materials, i.e., zeolite with high ion-exchange ability and montmorillonite of layered structure were adopted and investigated. All four antibacterial additives show high activity with a reduction rate of over 99.99% and R value of over 5. The ex situ generated nano-silver antibacterial agents with both carriers exhibit higher activity in the initial antibacterial property and antibacterial durability that the coating films are able to maintain over 99% antimicrobial reduction after 20 cycles (1200 times) of soap solution wiping. They also show a lower yellowish color difference of less than three compared to the films with in situ generation method. The one with montmorillonite as carrier shows the stronger antibacterial property with an R value of 5.88 and slightly better film appearance of lower color difference, smaller reduction in gloss and increase in haze as compared to zeolite carrier due to the layered structure.
Laser Melt Infiltration of UHMWPE into the Binary Coatings of Strontium Apatite and Colloidal Silica
Authors: Furukawa Akira , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: March 2023

Medical-grade ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is the material of choice for sliding surfaces in various articular joint implants owing to its excellent biocompatibility and superior physical properties, such as an exceptionally low coefficient of friction and excellent durability. However, the bioinert nature of UHMWPE limits its extended use in rapidly advancing medical fronts. In this study, bioactive surface modifications of UHMWPE were addressed using a newly developed laser-melt infiltration technique. UHMWPE was coated with binary mixtures of strontium apatite and colloidal silica particles and irradiated using a 30 W CO2 laser to reach the maximum temperature of 150 ± 5 °C. UHMWPE melts infiltrated the porous matrices of the coatings by capillary force and formed surface-selective composite materials between them. Capillary rise heights were evaluated by observing the uplift of the substrate after the selective dissolution of the coating substances and were found to be much higher than the estimated values based on the Lucas–Washburn equation. This finding suggests that the melt viscosity of UHMWPE confined within the nanopores might be significantly lower than that measured at macroscopic scales. Both strontium and silicate ions are known osteo-inductive factors, and their concentrations eluted from the binary coatings were substantially higher than those found in the single coatings.
Model Development of Stress Intensity Factor on 7057T6 Aluminum Alloy Using Extended Finite Element Method
Authors: Yuan Haiyang , Yang Weibo , Zhang Li , Hong Tao
Published: March 2023

The stress intensity factor represents a vital parameter within the realm of linear elastic fracture mechanics. It acts as the cornerstone in determining crack propagation and evaluating damage tolerance. However, calculating this factor is a complex task. To surmount this challenge, models of the stress intensity factor for both edge and center cracks were developed using the extended finite element method. The result of this effort is the ability to calculate the stress intensity factor at the crack tip under different loads and normalized crack lengths. The accuracy of these calculations was confirmed by comparing them to results from the NASGRO method, and the optimal mesh sizes for both the crack elements and overall units were established. Further analysis, conducted through MATLAB’s regression analysis, led to the development of an empirical model. This model was found to be both simple and reliable, making it an ideal tool for engineering applications.
Influence of Oxygen Vacancies on the Impedance Spectrum of Al2O3–Na0.5K0.5NbO3 Composites
Authors: Martin Alexander , Webber Kyle G. , Kakimoto Keni-chi
Published: March 2023

Composites based on ferroelectric Na0.5K0.5NbO3 (NKN) and paraelectric Al2O3 were observed using impedance spectroscopy at different temperatures. This allowed for the evaluation of the conduction processes of the bulk and grain boundary, revealing the occurrence of interdiffusion and changes in the conductive properties. The effective conductivity decreased with the increase in Al2O3, which is due to the highly resistive nature of Al2O3. Interestingly, the activation energy for the bulk response increased from 0.87 ± 0.06 eV to approximately 1.12 ± 0.03 eV, and the activation energy of the grain boundary decreased from 1.26 ± 0.09 eV to 0.99 ± 0.09 eV. These observations of the activation energy revealed the interdiffusion of Al3+ ions, leading to the formation of oxygen vacancies in close vicinity to the grain boundary. As a result, the conduction path for charge carriers shifted to take place predominantly along the grain boundary.
Do Certain Anaesthetic Drugs Affect Postoperative Cancer Recurrence Rates? Implications for Drug Discovery
Authors: Wilson Ben A. , Pandit Jaideep J.
Published: March 2023

Recurrence of cancer after primary tumour resection is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Preclinical research indicates that surgery induces a stress response that inhibits cell-mediated immunity as a possible basis for risk of recurrence. Other preclinical evidence suggests that, conversely, propofol and local anaesthetics diminish the effects of the surgical stress response and so could directly inhibit cancer progression, and this is supported by several retrospective cohort studies and meta-analyses. However, the first large-scale randomised clinical trial (RCT), comparing recurrence after mastectomy in patients anaesthetised with either propofol/local anaesthetic or sevoflurane/opioids, concluded that recurrence was not significantly improved in the propofol/local anaesthetic group (p = 0.84). Other cancers may prove more responsive and results from a number of ongoing RCTs, encompassing several cancer types, are currently awaited. These trials should establish whether choice of anaesthetic technique is an important determinant of cancer recurrence risk.
Spontaneously Ruptured Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Computed Tomography-Based Assessment
Authors: Sandomenico Fabio , Arpaia Valerio , De Rosa Ferdinando , Catalano Orlando , Buonaiuto Roberto Antonino , Notarangelo Marianna , Iovino Maria , Giovine Sabrina , Brunetti Arturo , Scaglione Mariano
Published: March 2023

Spontaneously ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma (SRHCC) is an uncommon and life-threatening complication in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is usually associated with chronic liver disease and has a poor prognosis with a high mortality rate during the acute phase. SRHCC can cause a severe and urgent condition of acute abdomen disease and requires a correct diagnosis to achieve adequate treatment. Clinical presentation is related to the presence of hemoperitoneum, and abdominal pain is the most common symptom (66–100% of cases). Although the treatment approach is not unique, trans-arterial (chemo)embolization (TAE/TACE) followed by staged hepatectomy has shown better results in long-term survival. A multi-phase contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) scan is a pivotal technique in the diagnosis of SRHCC due to its diagnostic accuracy and optimal temporal resolution. The correct interpretation of the main CT findings in SRHCC, such as active contrast extravasation and the sentinel clot sign, is fundamental for a prompt and correct diagnosis. Furthermore, CT also plays a role as a post-operative control procedure, especially in patients treated with TAE/TACE. Therefore, a multi-phase CECT scan should be the diagnostic tool of choice in SRHCC since it suggests an immediate need for treatment with a consequent improvement in prognosis.
The Effect of Plant-Based and Mycoprotein-Based Meat Substitute Consumption on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Controlled Intervention Trials
Authors: Gibbs Joshua , Leung Gah-Kai
Published: March 2023

Background: Climate change is a serious threat to human wellbeing and development. Global reduction of meat intake is key to addressing climate change and other modern sustainability challenges. Plant-based and mycoprotein-based meat substitutes are predicted to play a key role in the reduction of meat intake; however, their impact on human health is unclear. The main objective of this meta-analysis was to assess the short-term effects of meat substitutes on important cardiometabolic biomarkers (total cholesterol, TC; LDL-cholesterol, LDL-C; HDL-cholesterol, HDL-C; triglycerides, TG; systolic blood pressure, SBP; diastolic blood pressure, DBP; fasting blood glucose, FBG; weight) in controlled clinical trials. Methods: Embase and MEDLINE were searched to identify controlled clinical trials with meat substitute interventions and cardiometabolic biomarker outcomes. Standardised mean differences in TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, TG, FBG, SBP, DBP, and weight and 95% confidence intervals were pooled using a random effects model. Risk of bias, heterogeneity, sensitivity, and publication bias were assessed. Of the 934 records identified, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. In the pooled analyses, the consumption of meat substitutes was associated with significantly lower TC (−0.50 mmol/L [95% CIs −0.70, −0.29]), LDL-C (−0.39 mmol/L [−0.57, −0.21]), and TG (−0.15 mmol/L [−0.29, −0.01]), non-significantly lower FBG (−0.08 [−0.23, 0.08]), SBP (−0.32 [−1.79, 1.41]), and weight (−0.12 [−1.52, 1.27]), and non-significantly higher HDL-C (0.01 [−0.02, 0.05]) and DBP (0.49 [−0.30, 1.28]). There was evidence of publication bias, and some heterogeneity was detected. The certainty of evidence was moderate for the TC and HDL-C results, low for the LDL-C, TG, SBP, DBP, and weight results, and very low for the FBG results. Conclusions: Replacement of some or all meat with plant-based or mycoprotein-based substitutes may lower TC, LDL-C, and TG.
Exploring Customer Journeys in the Context of Dentistry: A Case Study
Authors: Modha Bhaven
Published: March 2023

This case study aims to explore how customer journey concepts can apply to a hypothetical scenario, centring on a patient (customer persona) within the dentistry arena, and with a particular focus on special care dentistry. As an educational exercise, this paper may inform dental and allied professionals on how aspects of the customer journey notion may be embedded into their own practices, so that patient-centricity might be better optimised. The hypothetical scenario considers the organisational context, customer persona, contemporary customer purchase decision-making models, and marketing approaches. These components are used to create a customer journey map to help visualise and identify the varying customer–business interactions. The customer journey, focussing on the awareness, initial consideration, active evaluation, pre-purchase, purchase and post-purchase stages, is then conceptually analysed. The analyses reveal that there are areas of friction, attributable to numerous factors. The case study recommends that by introducing digitalisation and omnichannel marketing, alongside existing internally generated and multi-channel marketing approaches, considerable improvements may be achievable. As the patient technology landscape becomes more digital and dental organisations face fiercer competition, dental care providers relying on traditional marketing approaches may well need to adapt and introduce innovative, yet cost-effective digitalisation and omnichannel marketing approaches. Nevertheless, dental care providers, and dental and allied professionals must uphold an underlying duty of care, ensuring that all practises are legal, decent, honest, truthful, and above all ethical.
Fracture Resistance of Repaired 5Y-PSZ Zirconia Crowns after Endodontic Access
Authors: Greuling Andreas , Wiemken Mira , Kahra Christoph , Maier Hans Jürgen , Eisenburger Michael
Published: March 2023

This study analyzed the fracture load before and after a chewing simulation of zirconia crowns that were trepanned and repaired using composite resin. Overall, 3 groups with 15 5Y-PSZ crowns in each group were tested. For group A, the fracture load of the unmodified crowns was evaluated. For group B, the crowns were trepanned and repaired using composite resin, also followed by a fracture test. For group C, crowns were prepared like in group B but received thermomechanical cycling before the final fracture tests. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray microscopy (XRM) analysis were performed for group C. The mean fracture loads and standard deviation were 2260 N ± 410 N (group A), 1720 N ± 380 N (group B), and 1540 N ± 280 N (group C). Tukey-Kramer multiple comparisons showed a significant difference between groups A and B (p < 0.01) and groups A and C (p < 0.01). After ageing, surface fissures were detected via SEM, but no cracks that reached from the occlusal to the inner side of the crown were detected via XRM. Within the limitations of this study, it can be stated that trepanned and composite-repaired 5Y-PSZ crowns show lower fracture loads than 5Y-PSZ crowns without trepanation.
Semi-Metric Portfolio Optimization: A New Algorithm Reducing Simultaneous Asset Shocks
Authors: James Nick , Menzies Max , Chan Jennifer
Published: March 2023

This paper proposes a new method for financial portfolio optimization based on reducing simultaneous asset shocks across a collection of assets. This may be understood as an alternative approach to risk reduction in a portfolio based on a new mathematical quantity. First, we apply recently introduced semi-metrics between finite sets to determine the distance between time series’ structural breaks. Then, we build on the classical portfolio optimization theory of Markowitz and use this distance between asset structural breaks for our penalty function, rather than portfolio variance. Our experiments are promising: on synthetic data, we show that our proposed method does indeed diversify among time series with highly similar structural breaks and enjoys advantages over existing metrics between sets. On real data, experiments illustrate that our proposed optimization method performs well relative to nine other commonly used options, producing the second-highest returns, the lowest volatility, and second-lowest drawdown. The main implication for this method in portfolio management is reducing simultaneous asset shocks and potentially sharp associated drawdowns during periods of highly similar structural breaks, such as a market crisis. Our method adds to a considerable literature of portfolio optimization techniques in econometrics and could complement these via portfolio averaging.
Distributed Stochastic Model Predictive Control for a Microscopic Interactive Traffic Model
Authors: Dang Ni , Brüdigam Tim , Zhang Zengjie , Liu Fangzhou , Leibold Marion , Buss Martin
Published: March 2023

Stochastic Model Predictive Control (SMPC) has attracted increasing attention for autonomous driving in recent years, since it enables collision-free maneuvers and trajectory planning and can deal with uncertainties in a non-conservative way. Many promising strategies have been proposed on how to use SMPC to select appropriate maneuvers and plan safe trajectories in uncertain environments. The limitation of these approaches is that they focus on scenarios where only one vehicle is controlled by SMPC and is, thus, reacting to the surrounding vehicles; however, the surrounding vehicles do not react to the SMPC-controlled vehicle, which means there is no mutual interaction. However, when multiple autonomous vehicles are driving on the road, each individual vehicle will take the behavior of the other surrounding vehicles into account and adjust its individual decisions accordingly in trajectory planning. This paper, therefore, examines in simulations how the interactive control system of multiple SMPC-controlled vehicles behave based on a Distributed SMPC (DSMPC) framework. For a three-lane highway scenario, we first investigate the effects of the risk parameter of the collision avoidance probabilistic constraint on non-interactive and interactive vehicle systems and provide insights into how to parameterize the controllers in interactive vehicle systems.
Research on Five-Level PFC Circuit Topology Based on Switch-Diode-Capacitor Network
Authors: Lu Yun , Ma Hui , Wei Yewen , Pan Yu , Chen Xi , Huang Yuehua
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a family of a novel single-phase three-level PFC based on a switch-capacitor cell is proposed. The proposed PFC topologies have the characteristics of high power factor, low voltage stresses, and low power losses. Firstly, the derivation process of the novel PFC topologies is introduced in detail. Based on a representative circuit of the proposed novel PFC topologies, its operation principle is analyzed from the aspects of working current paths, key waveforms, and pulse distribution. Meanwhile, its equivalent circuit model is deduced. Secondly, the performance of the proposed PFC topologies is analyzed. Then the modulation technology based on capacitor voltage balancing is designed for the proposed topologies. Finally, an experimental prototype with a rated power of 800 W and a DC output voltage of 400 V is built. The experimental analysis is carried out from both the steady state and dynamic state. The experimental results verify the feasibility of the proposed novel three-level PFC topologies and the effectiveness of the modulation technology.
Carbon Dioxide, Methane and Nitrous Oxide Fluxes from Tree Stems in Silver Birch and Black Alder Stands with Drained and Naturally Wet Peat Soils
Authors: Petaja Guna , Ancāns Ritvars , Bārdule Arta , Spalva Gints , Meļņiks Raitis Normunds , Purviņa Dana , Lazdiņš Andis
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of groundwater level, soil temperature and general soil chemistry on greenhouse gas (GHG)—carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O)—fluxes from tree stems in deciduous stands with nutrient-rich naturally wet and drained peat soils. In total, nine sample plots were established in the central and north-eastern part of Latvia. The studied tree species were silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.) and black alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertb.). Tree stands of different ages and tree dimensions were selected for the study. GHG fluxes were measured with a circular-type non-transparent chamber of fixed area and volume, which was connected to the “Gasmet DX4040” mobile spectrometer. Ambient and soil temperature at a depth of 10 cm were measured, soil parameters (pH and content of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), potassium (K), phosphorus (P)) down to 30 cm depth were analyzed, and groundwater levels and weather conditions (wind, cloudiness, precipitation) were determined. The study found that CO2 fluxes from tree stems show a distinct seasonal pattern and a strong positive correlation with soil temperature. Significant differences in CO2 fluxes were found between temperature ranges below and above 5 °C, indicating that this temperature represents a threshold value. CH4 emissions from the tree stems increased with increasing groundwater levels. The impact of groundwater level becomes insignificant if the depth of the groundwater exceeds 30 cm. No significant N2O fluxes from tree stems were detected for most of the study period, except for March, April and June in black alder stands. As with CH4, N2O emissions exhibit an increase as groundwater levels rise. The C and N contents in soil have a significant impact on N2O fluxes from tree stems. There is a tendency for the N2O flux to increase along with increasing C and N contents in soil.
“New Wine in Old Bottles”: Structures of Feeling for a New Way to See New Wood Products
Authors: Bello-Bravo Julia
Published: March 2023

Acknowledging an undeniable need for innovation, this paper offers a qualitative assessment for recognition and policy advocacy for superior innovations—for new wood products and processes offering more benefits and fewer drawbacks than other innovations. The paper highlights the irrationality of using the limited natural and human-made goods of the world to produce and consume inferior innovations, especially when they fail to mitigate or, in fact, contribute to worsening climate change. Raymond Williams’ “structures of feeling” are used to disclose evaluative commitments associated with the “new” characteristic of industrialized and indigenous civilizations toward illuminating potential pathways for halting an otherwise seemingly unstoppable engine of climate change from pushing all of life on Earth over its precipice. Discussing how the “new” is always implicated in the “old,” decision-making and design methods applicable over the whole of the value chain are proposed for generating “new” innovations and processes that are genuinely able to change the current world trajectory of our species. Future research is also discussed.
Belowground Biomass and Root:Shoot Ratios of Three Willow Cultivars at Two Sites
Authors: Sleight Nathan J. , Volk Timothy A. , Eisenbies Mark
Published: March 2023

Belowground biomass is an important but less studied component of energy crop systems that is essential in understanding the greenhouse gas benefits of these systems. In this study, a complete above- and belowground biomass inventory (foliage, stems, stools, coarse and fine roots) was performed on three cultivars of short-rotation willow biomass crops at two sites. Mixed models were used to analyze the proportion of biomass allocated to each component and the ratios between different components. The root:shoot (R:S) ratio, defined here as the stable unharvested biomass (stool and coarse roots) divided by the shoot biomass, averaged 0.63 (SE: +0.04). Though the portion of the plant where the willows distributed their belowground biomass varied, the R:S ratio was not significantly different across sites (p = 0.8970), cultivars (p = 0.2834), nor in the site × cultivar interaction (p = 0.8481). These results may be associated with the consistently good growth across sites and limited differences in site conditions. However, the R:S ratios were affected by the overall productivity of the stand (p = 0.0978), with higher producing stands having moderately lower ratios. This information on biomass allocation between components is essential for understanding and estimating the carbon balance of these systems and breeding and selection programs.
Heavy Metal Detection in Fritillaria thunbergii Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Coupled with Variable Selection Algorithm and Chemometrics
Authors: Kabir Muhammad Hilal , Guindo Mahamed Lamine , Chen Rongqin , Luo Xinmeng , Kong Wenwen , Liu Fei
Published: March 2023

Environmental and health risks associated with heavy metal pollution are serious. Human health can be adversely affected by the smallest amount of heavy metals. Modeling spectrum requires the careful selection of variables. Hence, simple variables that have a low level of interference and a high degree of precision are required for fast analysis and online detection. This study used laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy coupled with variable selection and chemometrics to simultaneously analyze heavy metals (Cd, Cu and Pb) in Fritillaria thunbergii. A total of three machine learning algorithms were utilized, including a gradient boosting machine (GBM), partial least squares regression (PLSR) and support vector regression (SVR). Three promising wavelength selection methods were evaluated for comparison, namely, a competitive adaptive reweighted sampling method (CARS), a random frog method (RF), and an uninformative variable elimination method (UVE). Compared to full wavelengths, the selected wavelengths produced excellent results. Overall, RC2, RV2, RP2, RSMEC, RSMEV and RSMEP for the selected variables are as follows: 0.9967, 0.8899, 0.9403, 1.9853 mg kg−1, 11.3934 mg kg−1, 8.5354 mg kg−1; 0.9933, 0.9316, 0.9665, 5.9332 mg kg−1, 18.3779 mg kg−1, 11.9356 mg kg−1; 0.9992, 0.9736, 0.9686, 1.6707 mg kg−1, 10.2323 mg kg−1, 10.1224 mg kg−1 were obtained for Cd Cu and Pb, respectively. Experimental results showed that all three methods could perform variable selection effectively, with GBM-UVE for Cd, SVR-RF for Pb, and GBM-CARS for Cu providing the best results. The results of the study suggest that LIBS coupled with wavelength selection can be used to detect heavy metals rapidly and accurately in Fritillaria by extracting only a few variables that contain useful information and eliminating non-informative variables.
Tartary Buckwheat Starch Modified with Octenyl Succinic Anhydride for Stabilization of Pickering Nanoemulsions
Authors: Lin Jie , Fan Shasha , Ruan Yuyue , Wu Dingtao , Yang Ting , Hu Yichen , Li Wei , Zou Liang
Published: March 2023

In this study, Tartary buckwheat starch was modified to different degrees of substitution (DS) with octenyl succinate anhydride (OS-TBS) in order to explore its potential for stabilizing Pickering nanoemulsions. OS-TBS was prepared by reacting Tartary buckwheat starch with 3, 5 or 7% (w/v) octenyl succinate in an alkaline aqueous solution at pH 8.5. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy gave peaks at 1726 cm−1 (C=O) and 1573 cm−1 (RCOO−), indicating the formation of OS-TBS. We further studied the physicochemical properties of the modified starch as well as its emulsification capacity. As the DS with octenyl succinate anhydride increased, the amylose content and gelatinization temperature of the OS-TBS decreased, while its solubility increased. In contrast to the original Tartary buckwheat starch, OS-TBS showed higher surface hydrophobicity, and its particles were more uniform in size and its emulsification stability was better. Higher DS with octenyl succinate led to better emulsification. OS-TBS efficiently stabilized O/W Pickering nanoemulsions and the average particle size of the emulsion was maintained at 300–400 nm for nanodroplets. Taken together, these results suggest that OS-TBS might serve as an excellent stabilizer for nanoscale Pickering emulsions. This study may suggest and expand the use of Tartary buckwheat starch in nanoscale Pickering emulsions in various industrial processes.
Degradation of Zearalenone by Dielectric Barrier Discharge Cold Plasma and Its Effect on Maize Quality
Authors: Zheng Zhe , Niu Liyang , Yang Wencheng , Chen Yi , Huang Yousheng , Li Chang
Published: March 2023

In this study, a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) cold plasma was used to degrade zearalenone, and the degradation efficiency and the quality of maize were evaluated. The results showed that the zearalenone degradation rates increased with the increase in voltage and time. When it was treated at 50 KV for 120 s, the degradation percentage of the zearalenone in maize could reach 56.57%. The kinetics’ analysis showed that the degradation followed a first-order reaction. The crude fiber of the maize reduced after the cold plasma treatment. In addition, cold plasma treatment did not significantly change the crude protein content, but slightly changed the fatty acid and color. The changes in maize quality are generally acceptable. DBD cold plasma may be a promising approach to reducing zearalenone in maize.
Exploring Adult Age-at-Death Research in Anthropology: Bibliometric Mapping and Content Analysis
Authors: Campanacho Vanessa , Alves-Cardoso Francisca
Published: March 2023

Although there are known limited skeletal traits that can be used to estimate age-at-death, an increasing body of literature is addressing this topic. This is particularly true in journals dedicated to forensic anthropology and past population studies. Research has focused mostly on methodological developments, aiming to update and validate age-at-death methods’ accuracy, with recurrent formulation, reformulation, testing, and re-testing of classical methodological approaches in multiple populational datasets and using novel statistical approaches. This paper explores aging research in adults published over the last century, aiming to portray major research agendas and highlight main institutions and co-authorship networks. A comprehensive dataset of bibliometric data from 1225 publications on age-at-death estimation, published between 1890 and October 2022, was used in the analysis. Major results showed that since the 1990s there has been continuous growth in aging research, predominantly by institutions in the United States. However, in the last 2 decades, research contributions from institutions with a wider geographical location were observed. Moreover, the research terms associated with aging are not limited to bone changes. Rather, dental-related changes are major contributors to aging research. Temporal trends suggested changes in research agendas related to terms and institutional co-authorships which may bring more inclusive and accurate-related method developments.
Numerical Simulation of Nonlinear Dynamics of Breast Cancer Models Using Continuous Block Implicit Hybrid Methods
Authors: Yakubu Dauda Gulibur , Mohammed Abdulhameed , Tahiru Adamu Garba , Abubakar Kadas Saidu , Adamu Magaji Yunbunga
Published: March 2023

In the search for causes and cures of cancer diseases, many mathematical models developed have resulted in systems of nonlinear stiff ordinary differential equations. With these models, many numerical estimates of biological knowledge of the parameters have been obtained, a number of phenomena interpreted, and predictions were made in order to gain further knowledge of cancer development and possible treatment. In this study, numerical simulations of the models were performed using continuous block implicit hybrid methods and the results obtained support the theoretical and clinical findings. We analyzed the interactions among the various tumor cell populations and present the results graphically. From the graphical representation of results, one can clearly see the effects of all the tumor cell populations involved in the competition, as well as the effects of some treatments by the applications of some therapeutic agents which have been heavily used in the clinical treatments of breast cancer. The treatments in the past were mostly conventional chemotherapies, which were used either singly (alone) or in combination with each other or other therapies, and all played vital roles, except for the side effects that these therapies incur in normal tissues and organs. Thus, from recent research works, it is now clear that in many cases they do not represent a complete cure. Therefore, the need to address not only the preventative measures of breast cancer, but also more successful treatment, is clear, and can be successfully achieved to increase the survival rate of breast cancer patients.
Preparation and Performance Evaluation of a Plugging Agent with an Interpenetrating Polymer Network
Authors: Wang Zengbao , Liu Yitian , Huang Weian , Yang Xiong , Liu Ziao , Zhang Xushuo
Published: March 2023

In view of the problems of polymer cross-linked elastic particle plugging agents commonly used in oilfields, including easy shear, poor temperature resistance, and weak plugging strength for large pores, the introduction of particles with certain rigidity and network structure, and cross-linking with a polymer monomer can improve the structural stability, temperature resistance, and plugging effect, and the preparation method is simple and low-cost. An interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) gel was prepared in a stepwise manner. The conditions of IPN synthesis were optimized. The IPN gel micromorphology was analyzed by SEM and the viscoelasticity, temperature resistance, and plugging performance were also evaluated. The optimal polymerization conditions included a temperature of 60 °C, a monomer concentration of 10.0–15.0%, a cross-linker concentration of 1.0–2.0% of monomer content, and a first network concentration of 20%. The IPN showed good fusion degree with no phase separation, which was the prerequisite for the formation of high-strength IPN, whereas particle aggregates reduced the strength. The IPN had better cross-linking strength and structural stability, with a 20–70% increase in the elastic modulus and a 25% increase in temperature resistance. It showed better plugging ability and erosion resistance, with the plugging rate reaching 98.9%. The stability of the plugging pressure after erosion was 3.8 times that of a conventional PAM-gel plugging agent. The IPN plugging agent improved the structural stability, temperature resistance, and plugging effect of the plugging agent. This paper provides a new method for improving the performance of a plugging agent in an oilfield.
Genomic Analysis, Evolution and Characterization of E3 Ubiquitin Protein Ligase (TRIM) Gene Family in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Aizaz Muhammad , Kiani Yusra Sajid , Nisar Maryum , Shan Shijuan , Paracha Rehan Zafar , Yang Guiwen
Published: March 2023

Tripartite motifs (TRIM) is a large family of E3 ubiquitin ligases that play an important role in ubiquitylation. TRIM proteins regulate a wide range of biological processes from cellular response to viral infection and are implicated in various pathologies, from Mendelian disease to cancer. Although the TRIM family has been identified and characterized in tetrapods, but the knowledge about common carp and other teleost species is limited. The genes and proteins in the TRIM family of common carp were analyzed for evolutionary relationships, characterization, and functional annotation. Phylogenetic analysis was used to elucidate the evolutionary relationship of TRIM protein among teleost and higher vertebrate species. The results show that the TRIM orthologs of highly distant vertebrates have conserved sequences and domain architectures. The pairwise distance was calculated among teleost species of TRIMs, and the result exhibits very few mismatches at aligned position thus, indicating that the members are not distant from each other. Furthermore, TRIM family of common carp clustered into six groups on the basis of phylogenetic analysis. Additionally, the analysis revealed conserved motifs and functional domains in the subfamily members. The difference in functional domains and motifs is attributed to the evolution of these groups from different ancestors, thus validating the accuracy of clusters in the phylogenetic tree. However, the intron-exon organization is not precisely similar, which suggests duplication of genes and complex alternative splicing. The percentage of secondary structural elements is comparable for members of the same group, but the tertiary conformation is varied and dominated by coiled-coil segments required for catalytic activity. Gene ontology analysis revealed that these proteins are mainly associated with the catalytic activity of ubiquitination, immune system, zinc ion binding, positive regulation of transcription, ligase activity, and cell cycle regulation. Moreover, the biological pathway analyses identified four KEGG and 22 Reactome pathways. The predicted pathways correspond to functional domains, and gene ontology which proposes that proteins with similar structures might perform the same functions.
Assessment of Genetic and Health Management of Tunisian Holstein Dairy Herds with a Focus on Longevity
Authors: Sdiri Chaima , Ben Souf Ikram , Ben Salem Imen , M’Hamdi Naceur , Ben Hamouda Mohamed
Published: March 2023

In Tunisia, the recognition of the possibility of including longevity and disease resistance in dairy cattle selection objectives has been hypothesized as a useful strategy by both researchers and producers. However, in this paper, the state of the art, with a focus on health and longevity, is reviewed. Along the same lines, the heritability for the milk traits, fertility traits, and longevity of Tunisian Holstein dairy cows complies with the literature. Therefore, the influence of genetics on some diseases of the dairy cow was investigated. In addition, a decreasing efficiency in cow fertility has been observed over the last few years. The results showed that the risk of culling increased with common diseases. When analyzed with the Weibull model, functional lifespan was strongly influenced by milk yield; therefore, the risk increased with a reduced milk yield. In her first three lactations, the relative risk of selection increased gradually with lactation. Thus, the risk of thinning is highest at the beginning and end of the first feeding and the end of her second feeding. In conclusion, the risk of culling was reduced in parity. The factors that influence the life of the herd, such as health, husbandry, environmental conditions, and management, are often ignored when evaluating longevity.
Shoreline Dynamics and Beach Erosion
Authors: Di Paola Gianluigi , Rodríguez Germán , Rosskopf Carmen M.
Published: March 2023

Coasts are highly dynamic and geomorphologic complex systems that evolve under the increasing pressure of climate change and anthropogenic activities, having direct or indirect impacts on the coastal environment. Among the major adverse effects, coastal erosion represents one of the most pressing global issues, especially in flat and low-lying coastal areas that appear to be particularly susceptible to beach erosion and related shoreline retreat. This Special Issue collects a set of twelve papers on “Shoreline Dynamics and Beach Erosion”. Of course, this collection of papers does not cover all the broad number of topics concerning the dynamics and spatial-temporal evolution of shorelines and beach systems, but, in our opinion, they contribute to the growing body of knowledge. Coastal systems of variable complexity located in different geographic and climatic contexts are investigated from various points of view by using multi- and interdisciplinary approaches, as well as new experimental ones. The major topics covered concern the morphodynamics and hydrodynamics of coastal systems, the driving factors of coastal erosion, and the use of models/indexes to study coastal vulnerability and the mitigation of human/natural pressures affecting coastal ecosystems.
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Technique versus Static Stretching in Patients with Pronated Dominant Foot: A Comparison in Effectiveness on Flexibility, Foot Posture, Foot Function Index, and Dynamic Balance
Authors: Gupta Ujjwal , Sharma Ankita , Rizvi Moattar R. , Alqahtani Mazen M. , Ahmad Fuzail , Kashoo Faizan Z. , Miraj Mohammad , Asad Mohammad R. , Uddin Shadab , Ahamed Waseem M. , Nanjan Saravanakumar , Hussain Sayed A. , Ahmad Irshad
Published: March 2023

Background: Pronated foot is a deformity with various degrees of physical impact. Patients with a pronated foot experience issues such as foot pain, ankle pain, heel pain, shin splints, impaired balance, plantar fasciitis, etc. Objective: The study intended to compare the effectiveness of IASTM (instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization) and static stretching on ankle flexibility, foot posture, foot function, and balance in patients with a flexible pronated foot. Methods: Seventy-two participants between the ages of 18–25 years with a flexible pronated foot were included and allocated into three groups: Control, stretching, and IASTM group using single-blinded randomization. Range of motion (ROM) measuring ankle flexibility, foot posture index (FPI), foot function index (FFI), and dynamic balance was measured at baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention. Soft tissue mobilization was applied on to the IASTM group, while the stretching group was directed in static stretching of the gastrocnemius-soleus complex, tibialis anterior, and Achilles tendon in addition to the foot exercises. The control group received only foot exercises for 4 weeks. Results: The result shows the significant improvement of the right dominant foot in ROM plantar flexion, (F = 3.94, p = 0.03), dorsiflexion (F = 3.15, p = 0.05), inversion (F = 8.54, p = 0.001) and eversion (F = 5.93, p = 0.005), FFI (control vs. IASTM, mean difference (MD) = 5.9, p < 0.001), FPI (right foot, control vs. IASTM MD = 0.88, p = 0.004), and in dynamic balance of the right-leg stance (anterior, pre vs. post = 88.55 ± 2.28 vs. 94.65 ± 2.28; anteromedial, pre vs. post = 80.65 ± 2.3 vs. 85.55 ± 2.93; posterior, pre vs. post = 83 ± 3.52 vs. 87 ± 2.99 and lateral, pre vs. post = 73.2 ± 5.02 vs. 78.05 ± 4.29) in the IASTM group. The FFI was increased remarkably in the stretching group as compared to the control group. Conclusions: Myofascial release technique, i.e., IASTM with foot exercises, significantly improves flexibility, foot posture, foot function, and dynamic balance as compared to stretching, making it a choice of treatment for patients with a flexible pronated foot.
CBCT Evaluation of Periapical Pathologies in Maxillary Posterior Teeth and Their Relationship with Maxillary Sinus Mucosal Thickening
Authors: Jouhar Rizwan , Alkhames Hussain Mohammed , Ahmed Muhammad Adeel , Almadeh Naji Mohammad , Faheemuddin Muhammad , Umer Muhammad Farooq
Published: March 2023

In modern dentistry, radiographic imaging is crucial for examining the connection between the maxillary sinus floor and the root apices of the maxillary posterior teeth, particularly when the periapical region is affected by pathology that could result in infectious, inflammatory, or traumatic changes in the maxillary sinus. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of periapical pathologies in the maxillary posterior teeth and their relationship with maxillary sinus mucosal thickening by using cone-beam computed tomography scans. This retrospective study was conducted on 420 digitized CBCT images which were scanned in sagittal, axial, and coronal views. Out of 420 total images, 223 (53.1%) were of males and 197 (44.9%) were of females. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 28. A total of 2936 posterior maxillary teeth were tested for periapical pathology (PP), 1477 on the right side and 1459 on the left side. In terms of gender, there was no significant relationship between PP in maxillary posterior teeth on both sides and mucosal thickness of the maxillary sinus (p > 0.05). A significant relationship was found between PP in maxillary posterior teeth on both sides and maxillary sinus mucosal thickening (p < 0.05). This study concluded that the prevalence of periapical pathology in the maxillary posterior teeth was significantly associated with a rise in the incidence of maxillary sinus mucosal thickening. Moreover, the primary causative factor for the pathophysiology of the odontogenic maxillary sinus was the periapical pathology in both maxillary first molars.