bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Semi-Analytical Method for the Sealing Performance Prediction of Subsea Pipeline Compression Connector
Authors: Li Zhenyu , Wang Gang , Yao Shaoming , Yun Feihong , Jia Peng , Li Chao , Wang Liquan
Published: April 2023

To predict the sealing performance of the subsea pipeline compression connector, a semi-analytical method is proposed and verified. The leakage condition is obtained as a function of the minimum radial deflection. The semi-analytical method consists of three parts: a macroscopic analytical model for the interference process deduced based on the membrane theory, a mesoscopic two-dimensional finite element analysis of the internally turned sealing surface according to scanning electron microscope observation, and a formulation of the leakage ratio according to the Abbott–Firestone curve. The influences of the geometry parameters are analyzed. The prediction and identification of the leakage condition near the minimum preloaded deflection are investigated. Experimental tests are also carried out to verify the proposed method. The results show that, within five times the pipeline threshold of the thin wall thickness, compression connectors designed by the proposed method can create a reliable seal with a rough internally turned surface, saving 57% of the design time while reducing the machining time and costs.
Use of Sea Waste to Enhance Sustainability in Composite Materials: A Review
Authors: Santulli Carlo , Fragassa Cristiano , Pavlovic Ana , Nikolic Danilo
Published: April 2023

The term “sea waste” generally refers to any solid, liquid, or gaseous material or substance that is discarded, disposed of, or abandoned in the ocean, sea, or any other body of salty water, such as a lagoon, etc. This includes waste generated by human activities on land that makes its way into the ocean, as well as waste generated by ships and other vessels at sea. Examples of sea waste include plastic debris, chemicals and toxic substances, oil spills, sewage, and other forms of pollution. These pollutants can harm marine ecosystems, endanger marine life, and impact human health and wellbeing. Efforts are being made by governments, organizations, researchers, and individuals to reduce the amount of sea waste generated, and to clean up existing waste in the ocean. Less attention is usually paid to waste materials of natural origin as they are considered (sometimes wrongly) to be less critical; an example is the tons of organic and inorganic material of natural origin that wash up on the beaches daily and must be landfilled or incinerated. The present paper intends to provide an updated review of research experiences and engineering solutions that are able to offer a second life to natural (biological) sea waste by incorporating it into the creation of new, more sustainable materials, and especially composites.
A New Coastal Crawler Prototype to Expand the Ecological Monitoring Radius of OBSEA Cabled Observatory
Authors: Falahzadeh Ahmad , Toma Daniel Mihai , Francescangeli Marco , Chatzievangelou Damianos , Nogueras Marc , Martínez Enoc , Carandell Matias , Tangerlini Michael , Thomsen Laurenz , Picardi Giacomo , Le Bris Marie , Dominguez Luisa , Aguzzi Jacopo , del Río Joaquin
Published: April 2023

The use of marine cabled video observatories with multiparametric environmental data collection capability is becoming relevant for ecological monitoring strategies. Their ecosystem surveying can be enforced in real time, remotely, and continuously, over consecutive days, seasons, and even years. Unfortunately, as most observatories perform such monitoring with fixed cameras, the ecological value of their data is limited to a narrow field of view, possibly not representative of the local habitat heterogeneity. Docked mobile robotic platforms could be used to extend data collection to larger, and hence more ecologically representative areas. Among the various state-of-the-art underwater robotic platforms available, benthic crawlers are excellent candidates to perform ecological monitoring tasks in combination with cabled observatories. Although they are normally used in the deep sea, their high positioning stability, low acoustic signature, and low energetic consumption, especially during stationary phases, make them suitable for coastal operations. In this paper, we present the integration of a benthic crawler into a coastal cabled observatory (OBSEA) to extend its monitoring radius and collect more ecologically representative data. The extension of the monitoring radius was obtained by remotely operating the crawler to enforce back-and-forth drives along specific transects while recording videos with the onboard cameras. The ecological relevance of the monitoring-radius extension was demonstrated by performing a visual census of the species observed with the crawler’s cameras in comparison to the observatory’s fixed cameras, revealing non-negligible differences. Additionally, the videos recorded from the crawler’s cameras during the transects were used to demonstrate an automated photo-mosaic of the seabed for the first time on this class of vehicles. In the present work, the crawler travelled in an area of 40 m away from the OBSEA, producing an extension of the monitoring field of view (FOV), and covering an area approximately 230 times larger than OBSEA’s camera. The analysis of the videos obtained from the crawler’s and the observatory’s cameras revealed differences in the species observed. Future implementation scenarios are also discussed in relation to mission autonomy to perform imaging across spatial heterogeneity gradients around the OBSEA.
On Design Challenges of Portable Nuclear Magnetic Resonance System
Authors: Hosseinzadehtaher Mohsen , D’silva Silvanus , Baker Matthew , Kumar Ritesh , Hein Nathan T. , Shadmand Mohammad B. , Jagadish S.V. Krishna , Ghanbarian Behzad
Published: April 2023

This article studies the optimal design approach for a portable nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) system for use in non-destructive flow measurement applications. The mechanical and electromagnetic design procedures were carried out using the Ansys Maxwell finite-element analysis (FEA) software tool. The proposed procedure considered homogeneity and strength constraints while ensuring the desired functionality of the intended device for a given application. A modified particle swarm optimization (MPSO) algorithm was proposed as a reference design framework for optimization stages. The optimally designed NMR tool was prototyped, and its functionality was validated via several case studies. To assess the functionality of the prototyped device, Larmor frequency for hydrogen atom was captured and compared with theoretical results. Furthermore, the functionality and accuracy of the prototyped NMR tool is compared to the off-the-shelf NMR tool. Results demonstrated the feasibility and accuracy of the prototyped NMR tool constrained by factors, such as being lightweight and compact.
Insights on Crypto Investors from a German Personal Finance Management App
Authors: Nemeczek Fabian , Weiss Daniel
Published: April 2023

This study investigates the socio-economic characteristics, behavioral preferences, and consumption of individuals who own crypto-assets. Our empirical analysis utilizes data from a German personal finance management app where users connect their bank accounts and depots. We conducted a survey and elicited behavioral factors for financial decision-making. By combining survey with account and security account data, we identify crypto investors’ preferences for financial decision-making and financial advice. Our results suggest that, in particular, students or self-employed, young, and male individuals who are risk-seeking and impatient are more likely to have invested in crypto-assets. Most crypto owners have less experience with financial advisory. They see it as too time-consuming and qualitatively poor, and instead, they prefer to decide on their own as they have self-reported high financial literacy. Investigating their consumption in more detail we conclude that crypto investors more often spend on travelling, electronics, and food delivery and less on health. Our findings suggest policymakers in identifying high-risk consumers and investors, and help financial institutions develop appropriate products.
How Do Heterogeneous Land Development Opportunities Affect Rural Household Nonfarm Employment: A Perspective of Spatial Regulation
Authors: Tian Xia , Cai Yinying , Yang Qing , Xie Jin
Published: April 2023

Heterogeneous land development opportunities induced by spatial regulation produce different advantages in areas, which undoubtedly differentiates farmers’ employment. The aim of this study was to quantitatively examine its impact. We selected Moshui Lake City Park (urban development planning area), Sino-French Eco-City (industrial development planning area), and Chenhu International Wetland (ecological protection planning area) as its principal research areas. These regions are all located in Wuhan city, Hubei province, China. After obtaining 907 valid responses from rural households, the Tobit model was adopted to identify the impact of land development opportunities on farmers’ nonfarm employment. The results show that, first, industrial development opportunity (IDO) and urban development opportunity (UDO) provide more job security than the reference group, which is ecological development opportunity (EDO), with the estimated coefficients of IDO and UDO being 0.325 and 0.944, respectively. However, a negative correlation was found between UDO and farmers’ employment selection and income. Second, heterogeneity analysis reveals that the promotion effect of land development opportunities on farmers’ employment is more significant for low- and middle-income, low-quantity, and high-quality households. Finally, further analysis shows that IDO can promote employment for all age groups, but UDO inhibits the elderly labor force from getting employed. These findings provide evidence-based insights which can enable the government to formulate land value-added distribution systems that promote balanced development between regions and stakeholders.
Integrating Morphosyntactic and Visual Cues in L1 and L2 Comprehension
Authors: Zona Carlotta Isabella , Felser Claudia
Published: April 2023

This study investigates the relative weighting of morphosyntactic and visual cues in spoken-language comprehension, and whether this varies systematically within and between first (L1) and second language (L2) speakers of German. In two experiments, 45 L1 and 39 L2 speakers answered probe questions targeting the action direction of subject- and object-extracted relative clauses, which were presented either in isolation (Experiment 1) or alongside scene depictions either matching or mismatching the action direction expressed in the sentence (Experiment 2). We hypothesized that visual cues contribute to shaping meaning representations in sentence comprehension, and that sensitivity to morphosyntactic cues during interpretation may predict reliance on visual cues in both L1 and L2 comprehension. We found reliable effects of visual cues in both groups, and in response to both relative-clause types. Further, proxies of morphosyntactic sensitivity were associated with higher agent-identification accuracy, especially in response to object-extracted relative clauses presented with mismatching visual cues. Lastly, morphosyntactic sensitivity was a better predictor of accuracy rates than L1–L2 grouping in our dataset. The results extend the generalizability of models of visuo-linguistic integration across populations and experimental settings. Further, the observed sentence-comprehension differences can be explained in terms of individual cue-weighting patterns, and thus point to the crucial role of sensitivity to distinct cue types in accounting for thematic-role assignment success in L1 and L2 speakers alike.
ChatGPT in Supply Chains: Initial Evidence of Applications and Potential Research Agenda
Authors: Frederico Guilherme Francisco
Published: April 2023

Background: ChatGPT has been largely discussed since it was launched in November 2022. Problem statement: the main approaches of ChatGPT in the recent and scarce literature are more focused on the impacts for general use, applied sciences and educational systems, which evidences a relevant gap for the management field, especially related to the supply chain area. Objectives: as a novel and initial contribution, this article aims to provide a viewpoint with the main applications and other issues regarding ChatGPT in supply chains, based on the initial discovered evidence. Methods: This viewpoint article is grounded on the few articles available in specialized magazines, blogs and company websites that approach potential applications and other issues of ChatGPT in supply chains, as a systematic literature review was not possible due to the absence of papers approaching the subject in the research databases. Contributions: this article contributes to the practitioners involved in supply chain activities who desire to have an initial and structured content related to the impacts and applications of ChatGPT on supply chains. It also seeks to encourage researchers on further research deployments in this field by presenting potential research agenda topics. Results: first evidence based on quality results from the analyzed content showed that, although it may take time until this technology evolves to a desirable level of maturity, it may be applied in different areas of supply chain management (e.g., route optimization, predictive maintenance, order shipment, customer and supplier relationships, data analysis, ordering process, automating invoices, reducing waste, workforce training and guidance, amongst others), with a potential generation of significant benefits such as cost reductions and the improvement of supply chain performance.
Multiphysics Modeling and Simulation of a Light-Controlled Variable Damping System
Authors: Liu Zhicheng , Lv Zhen , Tang Yujuan , Wang Xinjie , Liu Xiang , Chen Yusong
Published: April 2023

In this paper, a light-controlled variable damping system (LCVDS) is proposed based on PLZT ceramics and electrorheological fluid (ERF). The mathematical models for the photovoltage of PLZT ceramics and the hydrodynamic model for the ERF are established, and the relationship between the pressure difference at both ends of the microchannel and the light intensity is deduced. Then, simulations are conducted by applying different light intensities in the LCVDS to analyze the pressure difference at both ends of the microchannel using COMSOL Multiphysics. The simulation results show that the pressure difference at both ends of the microchannel increases with the increase in light intensity, which is consistent with results from the mathematical model established in this paper. The error rate of the pressure difference at both ends of the microchannel is within 13.8% between the theoretical and simulation results. This investigation lays the foundation for the application of light-controlled variable damping in future engineering.
Electronic Structure and Hole Transfer of All B-DNA Dimers and Homopolymers, via the Fishbone-Wire Model
Authors: Simserides Constantinos , Orfanaki Aikaterini , Margariti Neokleia , Lambropoulos Konstantinos
Published: April 2023

We employ the Tight Binding Fishbone-Wire Model to study the electronic structure and coherent transfer of a hole (the absence of an electron created by oxidation) in all possible ideal B-DNA dimers as well as in homopolymers (one base pair repeated along the whole sequence with purine on purine). The sites considered are the base pairs and the deoxyriboses, with no backbone disorder. For the time-independent problem, we calculate the eigenspectra and the density of states. For the time-dependent problem after oxidation (i.e., the creation of a hole either at a base pair or at a deoxyribose), we calculate the mean-over-time probabilities to find the hole at each site and establish the frequency content of coherent carrier transfer by computing the Weighted Mean Frequency at each site and the Total Weighted Mean Frequency of a dimer or polymer. We also evaluate the main oscillation frequencies of the dipole moment along the macromolecule axis and the relevant amplitudes. Finally, we focus on the mean transfer rates from an initial site to all others. We study the dependence of these quantities on the number of monomers that are used to construct the polymer. Since the value of the interaction integral between base pairs and deoxyriboses is not well-established, we treat it as a variable and examine its influence on the calculated quantities.
Adsorption Capacity of Silica SBA-15 and Titanosilicate ETS-10 toward Indium Ions
Authors: Zinicovscaia Inga , Yushin Nikita , Humelnicu Doina , Grozdov Dmitrii , Ignat Maria , Humelnicu Ionel
Published: April 2023

Indium is an extremely important element for industry that is distributed in the Earth’s crust at very low concentrations. The recovery of indium by silica SBA-15 and titanosilicate ETS-10 was investigated at different pH levels, temperatures, times of contact and indium concentrations. A maximum removal of indium by ETS-10 was achieved at pH 3.0, while by SBA-15 it was within the pH range of 5.0–6.0. By studying kinetics, the applicability of the Elovich model for the description of indium adsorption on silica SBA-15 was shown, while its sorption on titanosilicate ETS-10 fitted well with the pseudo-first-order model. Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms were used to explain the equanimity of the sorption process. The Langmuir model showed its applicability for the explanation of the equilibrium data obtained for both sorbents, the maximum sorption capacity obtained using the model constituted 366 mg/g for titanosilicate ETS-10 at pH 3.0, temperature 22 °C and contact time 60 min, and 2036 mg/g for silica SBA-15 at pH 6.0, temperature 22 °C and contact time 60 min. Indium recovery was not dependent on the temperature and the sorption process was spontaneous in nature. The interactions between the indium sulfate structure and surfaces of adsorbents were investigated theoretically using the ORCA quantum chemistry program package. The spent SBA-15 and ETS-10 could be easily regenerated by using 0.01 M HCl and reused with up to 6 cycles of adsorption/desorption with a decrease in the removal efficiency between 4% and 10% for SBA-15 and 5% and 10% for ETS-10, respectively.
The Anatomy of Amorphous, Heterogeneous Catalyst Pellets
Authors: Rigby Sean P.
Published: April 2023

This review focuses on disordered, or amorphous, porous heterogeneous catalysts, especially those in the forms of pellets and monoliths. It considers the structural characterisation and representation of the void space of these porous media. It discusses the latest developments in the determination of key void space descriptors, such as porosity, pore size, and tortuosity. In particular, it discusses the contributions that can be made by various imaging modalities in both direct and indirect characterisations and their limitations. The second part of the review considers the various types of representations of the void space of porous catalysts. It was found that these come in three main types, which are dependent on the level of idealisation of the representation and the final purpose of the model. It was found that the limitations on the resolution and field of view for direct imaging methods mean that hybrid methods, combined with indirect porosimetry methods that can bridge the many length scales of structural heterogeneity and provide more statistically representative parameters, deliver the best basis for model construction for understanding mass transport in highly heterogeneous media.
Stall Torque Performance Analysis of a YASA Axial Flux Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine
Authors: Van Damme Jordi , Vansompel Hendrik , Crevecoeur Guillaume
Published: April 2023

There is a trend to go towards low gear-ratio or even direct-drive actuators in novel robotic applications in which high-torque density electric motors are required. The Yokeless and Segmented Armature Axial Flux Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine is therefore considered in this work. In these applications, the motors should be capable to deliver high torque at standstill for long periods of time. This can cause overheating of the motors due to a concentration of the losses in a single phase; hence, it becomes necessary to derate the motor torque. In this work the influence of the slot/pole combination, the addition of a thermal end-winding interconnection and the equivalent thermal conductivity of the winding body on the torque performance at standstill will be studied both experimentally via temperature measurements on a prototype stator, and via a calibrated 3D thermal Finite Element model. It was found that both a good choice of the slot/pole combination and the addition of a thermal end-winding interconnection have a significant influence on the torque performance at standstill, and allow up to 8% increase in torque at standstill in comparison to a reference design.
On System of Variable Order Nonlinear p-Laplacian Fractional Differential Equations with Biological Application
Authors: Khan Hasib , Alzabut Jehad , Gulzar Haseena , Tunç Osman , Pinelas Sandra
Published: April 2023

The study of variable order differential equations is important in science and engineering for a better representation and analysis of dynamical problems. In the literature, there are several fractional order operators involving variable orders. In this article, we construct a nonlinear variable order fractional differential system with a p-Laplacian operator. The presumed problem is a general class of the nonlinear equations of variable orders in the ABC sense of derivatives in combination with Caputo’s fractional derivative. We investigate the existence of solutions and the Hyers–Ulam stability of the considered equation. The presumed problem is a hybrid in nature and has a lot of applications. We have given its particular example as a waterborne disease model of variable order which is analysed for the numerical computations for different variable orders. The results obtained for the variable orders have an advantage over the constant orders in that the variable order simulations present the fluctuation of the real dynamics throughout our observations of the simulations.
MelodyDiffusion: Chord-Conditioned Melody Generation Using a Transformer-Based Diffusion Model
Authors: Li Shuyu , Sung Yunsick
Published: April 2023

Artificial intelligence, particularly machine learning, has begun to permeate various real-world applications and is continually being explored in automatic music generation. The approaches to music generation can be broadly divided into two categories: rule-based and data-driven methods. Rule-based approaches rely on substantial prior knowledge and may struggle to handle large datasets, whereas data-driven approaches can solve these problems and have become increasingly popular. However, data-driven approaches still face challenges such as the difficulty of considering long-distance dependencies when handling discrete-sequence data and convergence during model training. Although the diffusion model has been introduced as a generative model to solve the convergence problem in generative adversarial networks, it has not yet been applied to discrete-sequence data. This paper proposes a transformer-based diffusion model known as MelodyDiffusion to handle discrete musical data and realize chord-conditioned melody generation. MelodyDiffusion replaces the U-nets used in traditional diffusion models with transformers to consider the long-distance dependencies using attention and parallel mechanisms. Moreover, a transformer-based encoder is designed to extract contextual information from chords as a condition to guide melody generation. MelodyDiffusion can automatically generate diverse melodies based on the provided chords in practical applications. The evaluation experiments, in which Hits@k was used as a metric to evaluate the restored melodies, demonstrate that the large-scale version of MelodyDiffusion achieves an accuracy of 72.41% (k = 1).
Extension of Almost Primary Ideals to Noncommutative Rings and the Generalization of Nilary Ideals
Authors: Abouhalaka Alaa , Fındık Şehmus
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we introduce the concepts of almost right primary ideals and almost nilary ideals and study their related results. We compare almost right primary ideals with other types of ideals, such as right primary ideals and weakly right primary ideals, and investigate their forms in decomposable rings. Moreover, we study the prime radical of an ideal of the product rings. Finally, we provide a definition of fully almost right primary rings and demonstrate that the homomorphic image of a fully almost right primary ring is again a fully almost right primary ring. We also investigate the quotient structure of fully almost right primary rings.
Canards Oscillations, Noise-Induced Splitting of Cycles and Transition to Chaos in Thermochemical Kinetics
Authors: Bashkirtseva Irina , Ivanenko Grigoriy , Mordovskikh Dmitrii , Ryashko Lev
Published: April 2023

We study how noise generates complex oscillatory regimes in the nonlinear thermochemical kinetics. In this study, the basic mathematical Zeldovich–Semenov model is used as a deterministic skeleton. We investigate the stochastic version of this model that takes into account multiplicative random fluctuations of temperature. In our study, we use direct numerical simulation of stochastic solutions with the subsequent statistical analysis of probability densities and Lyapunov exponents. In the parametric zone of Canard cycles, qualitative effects caused by random noise are identified and investigated. Stochastic P-bifurcations corresponding to noise-induced splitting of Canard oscillations are parametrically described. It is shown that such P-bifurcations are associated with splitting of both amplitudes and frequencies. Studying stochastic D-bifurcations, we localized the rather narrow parameter zone where transitions from order to chaos occur.
Delays and Exposed Populations in Infection Models
Authors: Chen-Charpentier Benito
Published: April 2023

Most biological processes take time to occur. In infectious diseases, such as malaria or chikungunya, there is a period of time between when a susceptible individual gets bitten by the vector, and when the individual develops the disease. These times are commonly modeled by introducing delays or by adding exposed as a new population class. Given a model based on differential equations, delays can be introduced in different forms. In this paper, we study different ways of introducing the delays and, alternatively, using exposed populations. We also analyze their steady solutions and stability, and establish the conditions under which the studied models predict an epidemic. Results and conclusions are presented.
Development of Novel Pharmaceutical Forms of the Marine Bioactive Pigment Echinochrome A Enabling Alternative Routes of Administration
Authors: Kikionis Stefanos , Papakyriakopoulou Paraskevi , Mavrogiorgis Panagiotis , Vasileva Elena A. , Mishchenko Natalia P. , Fedoreyev Sergey A. , Valsami Georgia , Ioannou Efstathia , Roussis Vassilios
Published: April 2023

Echinochrome A (EchA), a marine bioactive pigment isolated from various sea urchin species, is the active agent of the clinically approved drug Histochrome®. EchA is currently only available in the form of an isotonic solution of its di- and tri-sodium salts due to its poor water solubility and sensitivity to oxidation. Electrospun polymeric nanofibers have lately emerged as promising drug carriers capable of improving the dissolution and bioavailability of drugs with limited water solubility. In the current study, EchA isolated from sea urchins of the genus Diadema collected at the island of Kastellorizo was incorporated in electrospun micro-/nanofibrous matrices composed of polycaprolactone and polyvinylpyrrolidone in various combinations. The physicochemical properties of the micro-/nanofibers were characterized using SEM, FT-IR, TGA and DSC analyses. The fabricated matrices exhibited variable dissolution/release profiles of EchA, as evidenced in in vitro experiments using gastrointestinal-like fluids (pH 1.2, 4.5 and 6.8). Ex vivo permeability studies using the EchA-loaded micro-/nanofibrous matrices showed an increased permeation of EchA across the duodenum barrier. The results of our study clearly show that electrospun polymeric micro-/nanofibers represent promising carriers for the development of new pharmaceutical formulations with controlled release, as well as increased stability and solubility of EchA, suitable for oral administration, while offering the potential for targeted delivery.
Positron Emission-Computed Tomography, Cryobiopsy versus Bronchoalveolar Lavage and Computed Tomography Findings for Interstitial Lung Disease: A Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Zarogoulidis Paul , Matthaios Dimitris , Huang Haidong , Bai Chong , Hohenforst-Schmidt Wolfgang , Porpodis Konstantinos , Petridis Dimitris , Pigakis Konstantinos , Kougkas Nikolaos , Oikonomou Panagoula , Nikolaou Christina , Hatzibougias Dimitris , Sardeli Chrysanthi
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives: Interstitial lung diseases have always been an issue for pulmonary and rheumatology physicians. Computed tomography scans with a high-resolution protocol and bronchoalveolar lavage have been used along with biochemical blood tests to reach a diagnosis. Materials and Methods: We included 80 patients in total. First, all patients had their diagnosis with computed tomography of the thorax, serological/ immunological blood tests and bronchoalveolar lavage. However; after 3 months, all were divided into 2 groups: those who had bronchoalveolar lavage again and those who had cryobiopsy instead of bronchoalveolar lavage (40/40). Positron emission-computed tomography was also performed upon the first and second diagnosis. The patients’ follow-up was 4 years from diagnosis. Results: Patients suffered most from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (56, 70%), while lung cancer was rarely encountered in the sample (7, 9.75%). Age distribution ranged between 53 and 68 years with a mean value of 60 years. The computed tomography findings revealed 25 patients with typical diagnosis (35.2%), 17 with interstitial pulmonary fibrosis (23.9%) and 11 with probable diagnosis (11%). The cryobiopsy technique led to a new diagnosis in 28 patients (35% of the total sample). Patients who had a new diagnosis with cryobiopsy had a mean survival time of 710 days (<1460). Positron emission-computed tomography SUV uptake was positively associated with the cryobiopsy technique/new disease diagnosis and improved all respiratory functions. Discussion: Positron emission-computed tomography is a tool that can be used along with respiratory functions for disease evaluation. Conclusions: Cryobiopsy is a safe tool for patients with interstitial lung disease and can assist in the diagnosis of interstitial lung diseases. The survival of patients was increased in the cryobiopsy group versus only bronchoalveolar lavage for disease diagnosis.
Optical Properties of Electrospun Nanofiber Mats
Authors: Blachowicz Tomasz , Ehrmann Andrea
Published: April 2023

Electrospun nanofiber mats are usually applied in fields where their high specific surface area and small pore sizes are important, such as biotechnology or filtration. Optically, they are mostly white due to scattering from the irregularly distributed, thin nanofibers. Nevertheless, their optical properties can be modified and become highly important for different applications, e.g., in sensing devices or solar cells, and sometimes for investigating their electronic or mechanical properties. This review gives an overview of typical optical properties of electrospun nanofiber mats, such as absorption and transmission, fluorescence and phosphorescence, scattering, polarized emission, dyeing and bathochromic shift as well as the correlation with dielectric constants and the extinction coefficient, showing which effects may occur and can be measured by which instruments or used for different applications.
Real Space and Time Imaging of Collective Headgroup Dipole Motions in Zwitterionic Lipid Bilayers
Authors: Bolmatov Dima , Collier C. Patrick , Zav’yalov Dmitry , Egami Takeshi , Katsaras John
Published: April 2023

Lipid bilayers are supramolecular structures responsible for a range of processes, such as transmembrane transport of ions and solutes, and sorting and replication of genetic materials, to name just a few. Some of these processes are transient and currently, cannot be visualized in real space and time. Here, we developed an approach using 1D, 2D, and 3D Van Hove correlation functions to image collective headgroup dipole motions in zwitterionic phospholipid bilayers. We show that both 2D and 3D spatiotemporal images of headgroup dipoles are consistent with commonly understood dynamic features of fluids. However, analysis of the 1D Van Hove function reveals lateral transient and re-emergent collective dynamics of the headgroup dipoles—occurring at picosecond time scales—that transmit and dissipate heat at longer times, due to relaxation processes. At the same time, the headgroup dipoles also generate membrane surface undulations due a collective tilting of the headgroup dipoles. A continuous intensity band of headgroup dipole spatiotemporal correlations—at nanometer length and nanosecond time scales—indicates that dipoles undergo stretching and squeezing elastic deformations. Importantly, the above mentioned intrinsic headgroup dipole motions can be externally stimulated at GHz-frequency scale, enhancing their flexoelectric and piezoelectric capabilities (i.e., increased conversion efficiency of mechanical energy into electric energy). In conclusion, we discuss how lipid membranes can provide molecular-level insights about biological learning and memory, and as platforms for the development of the next generation of neuromorphic computers.
Constructing Gas Transmission Pathways in Two-Dimensional Composite Material ZIF-8@BNNS Mixed-Matrix Membranes to Enhance CO2/N2 Separation Performance
Authors: Guo Fei , Xiao Wu , Ma Canghai , Ruan Xuehua , He Gaohong , Wang Hanli , Yang Zhendong , Jiang Xiaobin
Published: April 2023

Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, due to their high aspect ratio and high specific surface area, which provide a more tortuous pathway for larger gas molecules, are frequently used in membrane separation. However, in mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs), the high aspect ratio and high specific surface area of 2D fillers can increase transport resistance, thereby reducing the permeability of gas molecules. In this work, we combine boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS) with ZIF-8 nanoparticles to develop a novel material, ZIF-8@BNNS, to improve both CO2 permeability and CO2/N2 selectivity. Growth of ZIF-8 nanoparticles on the BNNS surface is achieved using an in-situ growth method where the amino groups of BNNS are complexed with Zn2+, creating gas transmission pathways that accelerate CO2 transmission. The 2D-BNNS material acts as a barrier in MMMs to improve CO2/N2 selectivity. The MMMs with a 20 wt.% ZIF-8@BNNS loading achieved a CO2 permeability of 106.5 Barrer and CO2/N2 selectivity of 83.2, surpassing the Robeson upper bound (2008) and demonstrating that MOF layers can efficiently reduce mass transfer resistance and enhance gas separation performance.
Growth Media Efficacy in Biochemical Methane Potential Assays
Authors: Chickering Giles , Tolaymat Thabet
Published: April 2023

The Biochemical Methane Potential (BMP) assay is a vital tool for quantifying the amount of methane that specific biodegradable materials can generate in landfills and similar anaerobic environments. Applications of the protocol are extensive and while simple in design, the BMP assay can use anaerobic seed from many different types of sources to determine the methane potential from most biodegradable substrates. Many researchers use differing protocols for this assay, both including and excluding the use of synthetic growth medias, intended to provide vital nutrients and trace elements that facilitate methanogenesis and leave the substrate being tested as the only limiting factor in methane generation potential. The variety of previous approaches inspired this effort to determine the efficacy of adding synthetic growth media to BMP assays. The presented findings suggest the use of M-1 synthetic growth media, defined in this study, at a volumetric ratio of 10% active sludge: 90% M-1 media yielded optimal results in terms of gas yield and reduced variability.
Mechanical and Thermal Properties of the High Thermal Conductivity Steel (HTCS) Additively Manufactured via Powder-Fed Direct Energy Deposition
Authors: Son Jong-Youn , Lee Ki-Yong , Shin Gwang-Yong , Choi Chang-Hwan , Shim Do-Sik
Published: April 2023

High thermal conductivity steel (HTCS-150) is deposited onto non-heat-treated AISI H13 (N-H13) via powder-fed direct energy deposition (DED) based on the response surface methodology (RSM) to enhance the mechanical properties and thermal conductivity of N-H13, which is generally used as a hot-work tool steel. The main process parameters of the powder-fed DED are priorly optimized to minimize defects in the deposited regions and, therefore, to obtain homogeneous material properties. The deposited HTCS-150 is comprehensively evaluated through hardness, tensile, and wear tests at the different temperatures of 25, 200, 400, 600, and 800 °C. Compared to conventionally heat-treated (quenched and tempered) H13 (HT-H13), the hardness of the additively manufactured HTCS-150 slightly increases at 25 °C, whereas it does not show any significant difference above 200 °C. However, the HTCS-150 deposited on N-H13 shows a lower ultimate tensile strength and elongation than HT-H13 at all tested temperatures, and the deposition of the HTCS-150 on N-H13 enhances the ultimate tensile strength of N-H13. While the HTCS-150 does not show a significant difference in the wear rate below 400 °C compared to HT-H13, it shows a lower wear rate above 600 °C. The HTCS-150 reveals a higher thermal conductivity than the HT-H13 below 600 °C, whereas the behavior is reversed at 800 °C. The results suggest that the HTCS-150 additively manufactured via powder-fed direct energy deposition can enhance the mechanical and thermal properties of N-H13, including hardness, tensile strength, wear resistance, and thermal conductivity in a wide range of temperatures, often superior to those of HT-H13.
The Impact of Antimicrobial Resistance on Outcomes for Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft and Valve Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study of Hospital Admissions Data from the National Inpatient Sample
Authors: Said Kirellos Abbas , Will Maximillian , Qureshi Adnan I. , Kwok Chun Shing
Published: April 2023

Background: There is uncertainty regarding the impact of multidrug-resistant organisms on patients that undergo cardiac surgery. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed by using 2016–2019 data from the National Inpatient Sample in the United States to evaluate the proportion of admissions with a diagnosis of antimicrobial resistance who also underwent coronary artery bypass graft or valve surgery. Results: A total of 1,260,630 admissions were included in the analysis, of which 2045 (0.16%) had antimicrobial resistance. Compared to patients without resistance, those with antimicrobial resistance were more likely to be female (52.8% vs. 31.5%, p < 0.001), and die in a hospital (7.1% vs. 2.4%, p < 0.001). The length of stay and cost were significantly higher for patients with antimicrobial resistance (15 vs. 7 days and USD 69,135 vs. USD 43,740, respectively). Antimicrobial resistance was not associated with increased in-hospital mortality (OR 1.38; 95% CI 0.86–2.21, p = 0.18), although it was associated with an increase in length of stay (coefficient 7.65; 95% CI 6.91–8.39, p < 0.001), and cost (coefficient USD 25,240 [21,626–28,854], p < 0.001). Conclusions: Antimicrobial resistance in patients that undergo cardiac surgery is not common, yet its burden is substantial as it can double the length of stay and increase costs by more than USD 20,000.
Two Molecular Plasma-Based Diagnostic Methods to Evaluate Early Infection of Schistosoma japonicum and Schistosomiasis Japonica
Authors: Hong Yang , Guo Qinghong , Zhou Xue , Tang Liying , Chen Cheng , Shang Zheng , Zhou Kerou , Zhang Zhizhong , Liu Jinming , Lin Jiaojiao , Xu Bin , Chen Jun-Hu , Fu Zhiqiang , Hu Wei
Published: April 2023

The prevalence and infectious intensity of schistosomiasis japonica has decreased significantly in China in the past few decades. However, more accurate and sensitive diagnostic methods are urgently required for the further control, surveillance, and final elimination of the disease. In this study, we assessed the diagnostic efficacy of a real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (qPCR) method and recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) combined with a lateral-flow dipstick (LFD) assay for detecting early infections of Schistosoma japonicum and different infection intensities. The sensitivity of the qPCR at 40 days post-infection (dpi) was 100% (8/8) in mice infected with 40 cercariae, which was higher than in mice infected with 10 cercariae (90%, 9/10) or five cercariae (77.8%, 7/9). The results of the RPA–LFD assays were similar, with sensitivities of 55.6% (5/9), 80% (8/10), and 100% (8/8) in mice infected with 5, 10, and 40 cercariae, respectively. In goats, both the qPCR and RPA–LFD assays showed 100% (8/8) sensitivity at 56 dpi. In the early detection of S. japonicum infection in mice and goats with qPCR, the first peak in positivity appeared at 3–4 dpi, when the positivity rate exceeded 40%, even in the low infection, intensity mice. In the RPA–LFD assays, positive results first peaked at 4–5 dpi in the mice, and the positivity rate was 37.5% in the goats at 1 dpi. In conclusion, neither of the molecular methods produced exceptional results for the early diagnosis of S. japonicum infection. However, they were useful methods for the regular diagnosis of schistosomiasis in mice and goats.
Structural Characteristics and Assembly Mechanisms of Soil Microbial Communities under Water–Salt Gradients in Arid Regions
Authors: Yang Guang , Jiang Lamei , Li Wenjing , Li Eryang , Lv Guanghui
Published: April 2023

Exploring the structural characteristics of arid soil microbial communities and their assembly mechanisms is important for understanding the ecological characteristics of arid zone soils and promoting ecological restoration. In this study, we used Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology to study soils in the arid zone of the Lake Ebinur basin, determined the differences among soil microbial community structures in the study area under different water–salt gradients, and investigated the effects of environmental factors on microbial community structure and assembly mechanisms. The results show the following: the microbial community alpha diversity exhibited a significantly higher low water–salt gradient (L) than high water–salt gradient (H) and medium water–salt gradient (M). The pH was most strongly correlated with soil microbial community structure, where the alpha diversity indices of the bacterial community and fungal community were significantly negatively correlated with pH, and the Bray–Curtis distance of bacterial community was significantly positively correlated with pH (p < 0.05). The complexity of bacterial community co-occurrence networks showed a significantly higher L than H and M, and the complexity of fungal community co-occurrence network showed a significantly lower L than H and M. The cooperative relationship of H and M in the co-occurrence networks was stronger than that of the L, and the key species of the microbial co-occurrence network were different under different water–salt gradients. Stochastic processes dominated the assembly mechanism of the microbial community structure of soil, and the explanation rates of deterministic and stochastic processes were different under different water–salt gradients, with the highest explanation rate of stochastic processes on the L accounting for more than 90%. In summary, the soil microbial community structure and assembly mechanisms significantly differed across water–salt gradients, and these findings can help provide a reference for further research on soil microbiology in arid zones.
Bioactive Metabolite from Endophytic Aspergillus versicolor SB5 with Anti-Acetylcholinesterase, Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activities: In Vitro and In Silico Studies
Authors: Elawady Mohamed E. , Hamed Ahmed A. , Alsallami Wamedh M. , Gabr Ebtsam Z. , Abdel-Monem Mohamed O. , Hassan Mervat G.
Published: April 2023

Endophytic fungi are a highly unpredictable group of microorganisms that can create a diverse range of secondary metabolites with biological activity. These metabolites enhance the host’s ability to tolerate stress caused by various factors, such as disease, insects, pathogens, and herbivores. The secondary metabolites produced by endophytic fungi may have potential applications in agriculture, pharmacy, and medicine. The purpose of this study was to examine the anti-acetylcholinesterase activity of secondary metabolites extracted from endophytic fungi. Aspergillus versicolor SB5 was one of the many endophytic fungi isolated from Juncus rigidus and identified genetically with accession number ON872302. Our study utilized fermentation and microbial cultivation techniques to obtain secondary metabolites. During the course of our investigation, we isolated a compound called Physcion (C1) from the endophytic fungus Aspergillus versicolor SB5. We subsequently identified that C1 possesses inhibitory activity against COX-2 and LOX-1, with IC50 values of 43.10 and 17.54 µg/mL, respectively, making it an effective anti-inflammatory agent. Moreover, we found that C1 also exhibited potent anticholinesterase activity (86.9 ± 1.21%). In addition to these promising therapeutic properties, our experiments demonstrated that C1 possesses strong antioxidant capacity, as evidenced by its ability to scavenge DPPH, ABTS, O2 radicals, and NO and inhibit lipid peroxidation. To further investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying C1 pharmacological properties, we employed SwissADME web tools to predict the compound’s ADME-related physicochemical properties and used Molecular Operating Environment and PyMOL for molecular docking studies.
Molecular Screening of Haemogregarine Hemoparasites (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina: Haemogregarinidae) in Populations of Native and Introduced Pond Turtles in Eastern Europe
Authors: Maričić Marko , Danon Gorana , Faria J. Filipe , Harris D. James
Published: April 2023

Haemogregarines (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) are the most common and widespread reptilian blood parasites. Haemogregarina stepanowi was the first haemogregarine described from a reptile, the European pond turtle Emys orbicularis, and initial assessments indicated it was widespread across different pond turtle host species across much of Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. However, recent molecular assessments have indicated the presence of multiple genetically distinct forms in North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, and extensive mixed infections which may be associated with a negative impact on the hosts. Here, we screened two native species, E. orbicularis and Mauremys rivulata, and the introduced Trachemys scripta from Serbia and North Macedonia for haemogregarines by amplifying and sequencing part of the 18S rRNA gene of these parasites, and used a standard DNA barcoding approach to identify leeches, the final host, attached to pond turtles. Our results again demonstrate the occurrence of considerable diversity of parasites in the analysed pond turtle species, and that T. scripta are likely infected by local haemogregarine parasites, and not those that are found in its native range. Leeches were identified as Placobdella costata, part of a lineage from Northern Europe. Mixed infections within pond turtles were again common. Current haemogregarine taxonomy does not reflect the genetic diversity identified, and a full taxonomic reassessment is needed.