bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Origin of the Caiyuanzi Pb–Zn Deposit in SE Yunnan Province, China: Constraints from In Situ S and Pb Isotopes
Authors: Jiang Yongguo , Cui Yinliang , Nian Hongliang , Yang Changhua , Zhang Yahui , Liu Mingyong , Xu Heng , Cai Jinjun , Liu Hesong
Published: February 2023

Located at the intersection of the Tethys and Pacific Rim metallogenic belts, the Laojunshan polymetallic metallogenic province in SE Yunnan Province hosts many large-scale W–Sn and Sn–Zn polymetallic deposits. The newly discovered Caiyuanzi medium-sized Pb–Zn deposit is located in the northern part of this province and has eight sulfide ore bodies. All the ore bodies occur in the siliceous rocks of the Lower Devonian Pojiao Formation (D1p). The ore bodies are conformable with stratigraphy and controlled by a lithologic horizon. The sulfide ores have banded or laminated structures. The ore minerals are mainly pyrite, chalcopyrite, sphalerite, and galena. In this study, in situ sulfur and lead isotopes were used to constrain the origin of the Caiyuanzi Pb–Zn deposit. The results show that the in situ δ34S values of pyrite, chalcopyrite, and sphalerite range from 0.1‰ to 6.0‰, with an average of 4.7‰. This δ34S signature reflects the mixing between magmatic-derived and reduced seawater sulfate sulfur. The in situ Pb isotopes characteristics of pyrite, galena, and sphalerite suggest that the sulfur and lead of ore minerals come from the upper crust. Integrating the data obtained from the studies including regional geology, ore geology, and S–Pb isotope geochemistry, we proposed that the Caiyuanzi Pb–Zn deposit is a hydrothermal deposit formed by sedimentary exhalative and magmatic hydrothermal superimposition.
Analytical Investigation of Iron-Based Stains on Carbonate Stones: Rust Formation, Diffusion Mechanisms, and Speciation
Authors: Reale Rita , Andreozzi Giovanni Battista , Sammartino Maria Pia , Salvi Anna Maria
Published: February 2023

In cultural heritage, unaesthetic stains on carbonate stones due to their close contacts with metals are of concern for the preservation of sculptures, monumental facades and archeological finds of various origin and antiquities. Rust stains made up of various oxidized iron compounds are the most frequent forms of alteration. The presence of ferric iron on rust-stained marble surfaces was confirmed in previous studies and oriented the choice of the best cleaning method (based on complexing agents specific for ferric ions). However, the composition of rust stains may vary along their extension. As the corrosion of the metallic iron proceeds, if the oxygen levels in the surroundings are low and there are no conditions to favor the oxidation, ferrous ions can also diffuse within the carbonate structure and form a variety of intermediate compounds. In this study, the iron stains on archeological marbles were compared with those artificially produced on Carrara marbles and Travertine samples. The use of integrated techniques (optical and scanning electron microscopy as well as Mössbauer and XPS spectroscopy) with complementary analytical depths, has provided the overall information. Rust formation and diffusion mechanisms in carbonates were revealed together with the evolution of iron speciation and identification of phases such as ferrihydrite, goethite, maghemite, nanomagnetite, and hematite.
Computational and Preclinical Prediction of the Antimicrobial Properties of an Agent Isolated from Monodora myristica: A Novel DNA Gyrase Inhibitor
Authors: Onikanni Sunday Amos , Lawal Bashir , Fadaka Adewale Oluwaseun , Bakare Oluwafemi , Adewole Ezekiel , Taher Muhammad , Khotib Junaidi , Susanti Deny , Oyinloye Babatunji Emmanuel , Ajiboye Basiru Olaitan , Ojo Oluwafemi Adeleke , Sibuyi Nicole Remaliah Samantha
Published: February 2023

The African nutmeg (Monodora myristica) is a medically useful plant. We, herein, aimed to critically examine whether bioactive compounds identified in the extracted oil of Monodora myristica could act as antimicrobial agents. To this end, we employed the Schrödinger platform as the computational tool to screen bioactive compounds identified in the oil of Monodora myristica. Our lead compound displayed the highest potency when compared with levofloxacin based on its binding affinity. The hit molecule was further subjected to an Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion (ADME) prediction, and a Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation was carried out on molecules with PubChem IDs 529885 and 175002 and on three standards (levofloxacin, cephalexin, and novobiocin). The MD analysis results demonstrated that two molecules are highly compact when compared to the native protein; thereby, this suggests that they could affect the protein on a structural and a functional level. The employed computational approach demonstrates that conformational changes occur in DNA gyrase after the binding of inhibitors; thereby, this resulted in structural and functional changes. These findings expand our knowledge on the inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase and could pave the way for the discovery of new drugs for the treatment of multi-resistant bacterial infections.
Hybrid Nanosystems of Antibiotics with Metal Nanoparticles—Novel Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Shabatina Tatyana I. , Vernaya Olga I. , Melnikov Mikhail Y.
Published: February 2023

The appearance and increasing number of microorganisms resistant to the action of antibiotics is one of the global problems of the 21st century. Already, the duration of therapeutic treatment and mortality from infectious diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms have increased significantly over the last few decades. Nanoscale inorganic materials (metals and metal oxides) with antimicrobial potential are a promising solution to this problem. Here we discuss possible mechanisms of pathogenic microorganisms’ resistance to antibiotics, proposed mechanisms of action of inorganic nanoparticles on bacterial cells, and the possibilities and benefits of their combined use with antibacterial drugs. The prospects of using metal and metal oxide nanoparticles as carriers in targeted delivery systems for antibacterial compositions are also discussed.
The Gemstone Cyborg: How Diamond Films Are Creating New Platforms for Cell Regeneration and Biointerfacing
Authors: Santos Nádia E. , Mendes Joana C. , Braga Susana Santos
Published: February 2023

Diamond is a promising material for the biomedical field, mainly due to its set of characteristics such as biocompatibility, strength, and electrical conductivity. Diamond can be synthesised in the laboratory by different methods, is available in the form of plates or films deposited on foreign substrates, and its morphology varies from microcrystalline diamond to ultrananocrystalline diamond. In this review, we summarise some of the most relevant studies regarding the adhesion of cells onto diamond surfaces, the consequent cell growth, and, in some very interesting cases, the differentiation of cells into neurons and oligodendrocytes. We discuss how different morphologies can affect cell adhesion and how surface termination can influence the surface hydrophilicity and consequent attachment of adherent proteins. At the end of the review, we present a brief perspective on how the results from cell adhesion and biocompatibility can make way for the use of diamond as biointerface.
A Novel Near-Infrared Ytterbium Complex [Yb(DPPDA)2](DIPEA) with Φ = 0.46% and τobs = 105 μs
Authors: Ren Guozhu , Zhang Danyang , Wang Hao , Li Xiaofang , Deng Ruiping , Zhou Shihong , Tian Long , Zhou Liang
Published: February 2023

The luminescent performances of near-infrared (NIR) lanthanide (Ln) complexes were restricted greatly by vibration quenching of X-H (X = C, N, O) oscillators, which are usually contained in ligands and solvents. Encapsulating Ln3+ into a cavity of coordination atoms is a feasible method of alleviating this quenching effect. In this work, a novel ytterbium complex [Yb(DPPDA)2](DIPEA) coordinated with 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline-2,9-dicarboxylic acid (DPPDA) was synthesized and characterized by FT-IR, ESI-MS and elemental analysis. Under the excitation of 335 nm light, [Yb(DPPDA)2](DIPEA) showed two emission peaks at 975 and 1011 nm, respectively, which were assigned to the characteristic 2F5/2 → 2F7/2 transition of Yb3+. Meanwhile, this ytterbium complex exhibited a plausible absolute quantum yield of 0.46% and a luminescent lifetime of 105 μs in CD3OD solution. In particular, its intrinsic quantum yield was calculated to be 12.5%, and this considerably high value was attributed to the near-zero solvent molecules bound to Yb3+ and the absence of X-H oscillators in the first coordination sphere. Based on experimental results, we further proposed that the sensitized luminescence of [Yb(DPPDA)2](DIPEA) occurred via an internal redox mechanism instead of an energy transfer process.
Simulation of a Steep-Slope p- and n-Type HfS2/MoTe2 Field-Effect Transistor with the Hybrid Transport Mechanism
Authors: Lyu Juan , Gong Jian
Published: February 2023

The use of a two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals (vdW) metal-semiconductor (MS) heterojunction as an efficient cold source (CS) has recently been proposed as a promising approach in the development of steep-slope field-effect transistors (FETs). In addition to the selection of source materials with linearly decreasing density-of-states-energy relations (D(E)s), in this study, we further verified, by means of a computer simulation, that a 2D semiconductor-semiconductor combination could also be used as an efficient CS. As a test case, a HfS2/MoTe2 FET was studied. It was found that MoTe2 can be spontaneously p-type-doped by interfacing with n-doped HfS2, resulting in a truncated decaying hot-carrier density with an increasing p-type channel barrier. Compared to the conventional MoTe2 FET, the subthreshold swing (SS) of the HfS2/MoTe2 FET can be significantly reduced to below 60 mV/decade, and the on-state current can be greatly enhanced by more than two orders of magnitude. It was found that there exists a hybrid transport mechanism involving the cold injection and the tunneling effect in such a p- and n-type HfS2/MoTe2 FET, which provides a new design insight into future low-power and high-performance 2D electronics from a physical point of view.
Spatially Resolved Photo-Response of a Carbon Nanotube/Si Photodetector
Authors: Capista Daniele , Lozzi Luca , Pelella Aniello , Di Bartolomeo Antonio , Giubileo Filippo , Passacantando Maurizio
Published: February 2023

Photodetectors based on vertical multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) film-Si heterojunctions are realized by growing MWCNTs on n-type Si substrates with a top surface covered by Si3N4 layers. Spatially resolved photocurrent measurements reveal that higher photo detection is achieved in regions with thinner MWCNT film, where nearly 100% external quantum efficiency is achieved. Hence, we propose a simple method based on the use of scotch tape with which to tune the thickness and density of as-grown MWCNT film and enhance device photo-response.
Study on the Anti-Aging Performance of Different Nano-Modified Natural Ester Insulating Oils Based on Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Zhang Tao , Chen Min , Zhou Haohan , Shi Guangrui , Fan Xiping , Wu Qian
Published: February 2023

In order to investigate the anti-aging performance of nano-modified natural ester insulating oils, in this paper, two different types of nanoparticles are selected to modify insulating oils. We studied the microscopic mechanism of nano-modified models using molecular simulation techniques. Three models were established: an oil–water model without the addition of nanoparticles and two which contained nano-Fe3O4 and nano-Al2O3 particles, where the concentration of water was 1 wt.%. The research found that the diffusion of water molecules in the nano-modified model was slow, and the water molecules generated from transformer insulation aging were adsorbed around the nanoparticles, which inhibited the diffusion of water molecules, reduced the hydrolysis of ester molecules, and effectively enhanced the anti-aging performance of natural ester insulating oil. Compared with two different types of nano-modified models, the interface compatibility between nano-Fe3O4 and natural ester insulating oil is better, the composite model is stable, the change rate of the diffusion coefficient with temperature is small, there are more hydrogen bonds generated by nano-Fe3O4 and water molecules, and the anti-aging performance of the nano-Fe3O4-modified oil model is better.
Noble Metal Nanoparticle-Loaded Porphyrin Hexagonal Submicrowires Composites (M-HW): Photocatalytic Synthesis and Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Liu Shuanghong , Huang Guan , Wang Jiefei , Bao Jianshuai , Wang Mengyue , Wei Yaqun , Zhong Yong , Bai Feng
Published: February 2023

Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) photocatalysts have attracted considerable attention because of their strong absorption capacity of visible light and enhanced photogenic carrier separation efficiency. However, the separate production of metal nanoparticles (NPs) and semiconductors limits the photogenic charge transfer. As one of the most promising organic photocatalysts, porphyrin self-assemblies with a long-range ordered structure-enhance electron transfer. In this study, plasmonic noble metal-based porphyrin hexagonal submicrowires composites (M-HW) loaded with platinum (Pt), silver (Ag), gold (Au), and palladium (Pd) NPs were synthesized through a simple in situ photocatalytic method. Homogeneous and uniformly distributed metal particles on the M-HW composites enhanced the catalytic or chemical properties of the organic functional nanostructures. Under the same loading of metal NPs, the methyl orange photocatalytic degradation efficiency of Ag-HW [kAg-HW (0.043 min−1)] composite was three times higher than that of HW, followed by Pt-HW [kPt-HW (0.0417 min−1)], Au-HW [kAu-HW (0.0312 min−1)], and Pd-HW [kPd-HW (0.0198 min−1)]. However, the rhodamine B (RhB) and eosin B photocatalytic degradations of Pt-HW were 4 times and 2.6 times those of HW, respectively. Finally, the SPR-induced electron injection, trapping, and recombination processes of the M-HW system were investigated. These results showed that M-HW plasmonic photocatalysts exhibited excellent photocatalytic performances, making them promising materials for photodegrading organic pollutants.
Clinical, Radiological, and Echocardiographic Findings in Cats Infected by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus
Authors: Napoli Ettore , Pugliese Michela , Basile Angelo , Passantino Annamaria , Brianti Emanuele
Published: February 2023

Cats infected by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus may show a plethora of clinical signs, and pulmonary hypertension (PH) seems to be one of the possible alterations induced by the infection; however, data on this association are scant and contradictory. Therefore, the aims of this study were to investigate the association between aelurostrongylosis and PH and to evaluate the correlation between the number of A. abstrusus larvae expelled in the faeces and the clinical, echocardiographic, and radiological alterations. Fifteen cats (i.e., eight males and seven females) older than 3 months and naturally infected by A. abstrusus with different parasitic loads, expressed as larvae per grams of faeces (l.p.g.), were enrolled in the study. Each animal underwent clinical, echocardiographic, and radiographic examinations. Most cats (i.e., 10/15) showed pathological patterns on thoracic radiograms; particularly, the alveolar pattern (four cats), interstitial-nodular pattern (five cats), and bronchial pattern (one cat). No significant echocardiographic findings of PH were detected. No correlation between the number of l.p.g. and the severity of clinical signs was observed, but a significant correlation with activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), radiographic alterations (interstitial nodular pattern), and ultrasonographic findings (RIVIDs) were noticed. These findings suggest that other factors such as animal age and health status, as well as comorbidity, may influence the presentation of the disease or the clinical manifestation and severity of the disease.
Temporal Study of Salmonella enterica Serovars Isolated from Environmental Samples from Ontario Poultry Breeder Flocks between 2009 and 2018
Authors: Murray Carolyn E. , Varga Csaba , Ouckama Rachel , Guerin Michele T.
Published: February 2023

This study’s goal was to determine the prevalence, temporal trends, seasonal patterns, and temporal clustering of Salmonella enterica isolated from environmental samples from Ontario’s poultry breeding flocks between 2009 and 2018. Clusters of common serovars and those of human health concern were identified using a scan statistic. The period prevalence of S. enterica was 25.3% in broiler breeders, 6.4% in layer breeders, and 28.6% in turkey breeders. An overall decreasing trend in S. enterica prevalence was identified in broiler breeders (from 27.8% in 2009 to 22.1% in 2018) and layer breeders (from 15.4% to 4.9%), while an increasing trend was identified in turkey breeders (from 12.0% to 24.5%). The most common serovars varied by commodity. Among broiler breeders, S. enterica serovars Kentucky (42.4% of 682 submissions), Heidelberg (19.2%), and Typhimurium (5.4%) were the most common. Salmonella enterica serovars Thompson (20.0% of 195 submissions) and Infantis (16.4%) were most common among layer breeders, and S. enterica serovars Schwarzengrund (23.6% of 1368 submissions), Senftenberg (12.9%), and Heidelberg and Uganda (9.6% each) were most common among turkey breeders. Salmonella enterica ser. Enteritidis prevalence was highest in submissions from broiler breeders (3.7% of 682 broiler breeder submissions). Temporal clusters of S. enterica serovars were identified for all poultry commodities. Seasonal effects varied by commodity, with most peaks occurring in the fall. Our study provides information on the prevalence and temporality of S. enterica serovars within Ontario’s poultry breeder flocks that might guide prevention and control programs at the breeder level.
The Role of Cluster of Differentiation 39 (CD39) and Purinergic Signaling Pathway in Viral Infections
Authors: Elsaghir Alaa , El-Sabaa Ehsan M. W. , Ahmed Abdulrahman K. , Abdelwahab Sayed F. , Sayed Ibrahim M. , El-Mokhtar Mohamed A.
Published: February 2023

CD39 is a marker of immune cells such as lymphocytes and monocytes. The CD39/CD73 pathway hydrolyzes ATP into adenosine, which has a potent immunosuppressive effect. CD39 regulates the function of a variety of immunologic cells through the purinergic signaling pathways. CD39+ T cells have been implicated in viral infections, including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), viral hepatitis, and Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections. The expression of CD39 is an indicator of lymphocyte exhaustion, which develops during chronicity. During RNA viral infections, the CD39 marker can profile the populations of CD4+ T lymphocytes into two populations, T-effector lymphocytes, and T-regulatory lymphocytes, where CD39 is predominantly expressed on the T-regulatory cells. The level of CD39 in T lymphocytes can predict the disease progression, antiviral immune responses, and the response to antiviral drugs. Besides, the percentage of CD39 and CD73 in B lymphocytes and monocytes can affect the status of viral infections. In this review, we investigate the impact of CD39 and CD39-expressing cells on viral infections and how the frequency and percentage of CD39+ immunologic cells determine disease prognosis.
Calibration and Validation of a Transfer Radiometer Applied to a Radiometric Benchmark Transfer Chain
Authors: Lei Kaichao , Ye Xin , Xu Nan , Li Shuqi , Zhang Yachao , Wang Yuwei , Liu Zhiwei , Li Zhigang
Published: February 2023

A transfer radiometer (TR) applied to an on-orbit radiometric benchmark transfer chain has been developed, which can achieve the high-precision transformation of power and radiance responsivity and transmit the radiance responsivity traced to the cryogenic radiometer to remote sensors, such as an imaging spectrometer, so that the on-orbit remote sensors can achieve the high accuracy calibration of 10−3 magnitude. Radiance comparison experiments between the TR and the radiance standard of the National Institute of Metrology (NIM) were carried out to demonstrate the absolute accuracy of the TR radiance measurement. At 780.0 nm and 851.9 nm, the relative measurement uncertainties of the TR filter-free channel were 0.24% (k = 1). Additionally, the radiance measurement results of the TR were consistent with those of the NIM radiance meter, and the radiance measurement results’ relative differences between the TR and the NIM radiance meter were approximately 0.04% at 780.0 nm and 851.9 nm. The relative measurement uncertainties of TR 780.4 nm and 851.8 nm filter channels were 0.89% (k = 1) and 0.84% (k = 1), respectively. Additionally, the radiance measurement results of the TR 780.4 nm and 851.8 nm filter channels were consistent with the radiances of the integrating sphere source calibrated by the NIM at 780.4 nm and 851.8 nm; the relative differences between the radiances measured by the two TR filter channels and the radiances of the integrating sphere source itself were better than 0.56%. This proved that the TR could measure the monochromatic source radiance with a measurement uncertainty of 0.24% and measure the broadband source radiance with a measurement uncertainty better than 0.89%. The TR can be applied to the radiometric benchmark transfer chain to improve the measurement precision of on-orbit remote-sensing instruments.
A Review on Zernike Coefficient-Solving Algorithms (CSAs) Used for Integrated Optomechanical Analysis (IOA)
Authors: Hu Motong , Pan Yue , Zhang Ning , Xu Xiping
Published: February 2023

An integrated optomechanical analysis (IOA) can predict the response of an optomechanical system to temperature, gravity, vibrations, and other local loadings; thus, the normal operation of instruments under special conditions is guaranteed. Zernike polynomials are the most popular for fitting the IOA-derived mechanical deformation data. By solving the Zernike coefficients of all deformed optical surfaces, the relationship between aberrations and deformations can be further revealed. The process of IOA is summarized in this article. The principles of four primary Zernike coefficient-solving algorithms (CSAs) were expounded, and the corresponding applications are reviewed in detail, including the least squares method, the Gram–Schmidt orthogonalized method, the Householder transformation, and singular value decomposition (SVD). Artificial neural networks (ANNs) trained for solving a similar overdetermined set of equations are also discussed; an innovative Zernike CSA based on a one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN) was proposed, emphasizing its potential for Zernike CSA. The feasibility of the neural network method was verified by conducting experiments on the primary mirror of the front reflection system of a space camera. This review can provide references for the precise optimization of IOA.
An Update of the Cenchrinae (Poaceae, Panicoideae, Paniceae) and a New Genus for the Subtribe to Clarify the Dubious Position of a Species of Panicum L.
Authors: Delfini Carolina , Aliscioni Sandra S. , Acosta Juan M. , Pensiero José F. , Zuloaga Fernando O.
Published: February 2023

Subtribe Cenchrinae, so-called as the “bristle clade”, is a monophyletic group of panicoid grasses characterized by having sterile branches or bristles on the inflorescences in most of its species. Within this subtribe is also placed Panicum antidotale Retz., an “incertae sedis” species of Panicum L. which lacks bristles along the inflorescence. In this study, we present an update of the subtribe Cenchrinae based on molecular, morphological, and anatomical evidence to clarify the systematic position of P. antidotale in the Cenchrinae, excluding it from Panicum and establishing it in a new genus (i.e., Janochloa Zuloaga & Delfini); the morphological features distinguishing the new genus from other closely related taxa are properly discussed and an identification key to the 24 genera recognized within Cenchrinae is presented. We also add American Setaria species, not tested before, of subgenera Paurochaetium and Reverchoniae, discussing the position of these taxa in actual phylogeny of the genus as well as defining placements in the tree of Setaria species that were imprecisely located in previous analyses. A comparison with the results from other studies, comments on Stenotaphrum Trin. and a brief discussion on conflicting placements in Cenchrus and related taxa, and of Acritochaete Pilg. are also included.
The Enhanced Affinity of WRKY Reinforces Drought Tolerance in Solanum lycopersicum L.: An Innovative Bioinformatics Study
Authors: Debnath Sandip , Kant Achal , Bhowmick Pradipta , Malakar Ayushman , Purkaystha Shampa , Jena Binod Kumar , Mudgal Gaurav , Rahimi Mehdi , Helal Md Mostofa Uddin , Hasan Rakibul , Chen Jen-Tsung , Azam Faizul
Published: February 2023

In the scenario of global climate change, understanding how plants respond to drought is critical for developing future crops that face restricted water resources. This present study focuses on the role of WRKY transcription factors on drought tolerance in tomato, Solanum lycopersicum L., which is a significant vegetable crop. WRKY transcription factors are a group of proteins that regulate a wild range of growth and developmental processes in plants such as seed germination and dormancy and the stress response. These transcription factors are defined by the presence of a DNA-binding domain, namely, the WRKY domain. It is well-known that WRKY transcription factors can interact with a variety of proteins and therefore control downstream activities. It aims to simulate the effect of curcumin, a bioactive compound with regulatory capacity, on the protein–protein interaction events by WRKY transcription factors with an emphasis on drought stress. It was found that curcumin binds to WRKY with an energy of −11.43 kcal/mol with inhibitory concentration (Ki) 0.12 mM and has the potential to improve fruit quality and reinforce drought tolerance of S. lycopersicum, according to the results based on bioinformatics tools. The root means square deviation (RMSD) of the C-α, the backbone of 2AYD with ligand coupled complex, displayed a very stable structure with just a little variation of 1.89 Å. MD simulation trajectory of Cα atoms of 2AYD bound to Curcumin revealed more un-ordered orientation in PC1 and PC10 modes and more toward negative correlation from the initial 400 frames during PCA. Establishing the binding energies of the ligand–target interaction is essential in order to characterize the compound’s binding affinity to the drought transcription factor. We think we have identified a phyto-agent called curcumin that has the potential to enhance the drought tolerance. Compared to the part of the mismatch repair-base technique that can be used to fix drought related genes, curcumin performed better in a drop-in crop yield over time, and it was suggested that curcumin is a potential candidate factor for improving drought tolerance in tomatoes, and it needs future validation by experiments in laboratory and field.
Microwave-Osmo-Dehydro-Freezing and Storage of Pineapple Titbits—Quality Advantage
Authors: Alharaty Ghaidaa , Ramaswamy Hosahalli S.
Published: February 2023

Osmotic dehydration is a pre-treatment given prior to finish drying or freezing preservation to improve quality and/or minimize the damaging effects on quality parameters, by partially reducing the moisture content of the sample. Pineapple titbits were partially dried using microwave assisted osmotic dehydration under continuous flow medium spray condition (MWODS) and then frozen with or without a sodium alginate–calcium chloride-based edible coating. The effects of MWODS pre-treatment and edible coating on the quality parameters of pineapple titbits frozen and stored at −20 °C for 10 and 50 days were evaluated after thawing. Both treatments (MWODS and alginate) resulted in superior quality products as compared to the control sample. MWODS, with its advantages over the conventional osmotic dehydration (COD) of rapid and higher moisture removal (16% in 10 min vs. 4 h in COD), while limiting solids gain (2.5% MWODS vs. 4.5% in COD), resulted in improved quality over the control during the frozen storage. The sodium alginate–calcium chloride edible coating treatment further reduced the drip loss in MW-osmo-dehydro-frozen pineapple titbits, possibly due to the effect of the calcium cross linked firming of the fruit texture. Both resulted in enhanced appearance, color and textural properties.
Multi-Attribute Decision-Making Methods in Additive Manufacturing: The State of the Art
Authors: Qin Yuchu , Qi Qunfen , Shi Peizhi , Lou Shan , Scott Paul J. , Jiang Xiangqian
Published: February 2023

Multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) refers to making preference decisions via assessing a finite number of pre-specified alternatives under multiple and usually conflicting attributes. Many problems in the field of additive manufacturing (AM) are essentially MADM problems or can be converted into MADM problems. Recently, a variety of MADM methods have been applied to solve MADM problems in AM. This generates a series of interesting questions: What is the general trend of this research topic from the perspective of published articles every year? Which journals published the most articles on the research topic? Which articles on the research topic are the most cited? What MADM methods have been applied to the field of AM? What are the main strengths and weaknesses of each MADM method used? Which MADM method is the most used one in this field? What specific problems in AM have been tackled via using MADM methods? What are the main issues in existing MADM methods for AM that need to be addressed in future studies? To approach these questions, a review of MADM methods in AM is presented in this paper. Firstly, an overview of existing MADM methods in AM was carried out based on the perspective of specific MADM methods. A statistical analysis of these methods is then made from the aspects of published journal articles, applied specific methods, and solved AM problems. After that, the main issues in the application of MADM methods to AM are discussed. Finally, the research findings of this review are summarised.
Identification of Key Brittleness Factors for the Lean–Green Manufacturing System in a Manufacturing Company in the Context of Industry 4.0, Based on the DEMATEL-ISM-MICMAC Method
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyong , Liang Yu , Xiao Yongmao , Xiao Gongwei , Deng Xiaojuan
Published: February 2023

In the context of Industry 4.0, the lean–green manufacturing system has brought many advantages and challenges to industrial participants. Security is one of the main challenges encountered in the new industrial environment, because smart factory applications can easily expose the vulnerability of manufacturing and threaten the operational security of the whole system. It is difficult to address the problem of the brittleness factor in manufacturing systems. Therefore, building on vulnerability theory, this study proposes a vulnerability index system for lean–green manufacturing systems in a manufacturing company in the context of Industry 4.0. The index has four dimensions: human factors, equipment factors, environmental factors, and other factors. The Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) approach was used to calculate the degree of influence, the degree of being influenced, and the centrality and causes of the factors. The causal relationships and key influences between the factors were identified. Then, the dependence and hierarchy of each of the key influencing factors were analyzed using the Matrix-Based Cross-Impact Multiplication Applied to Classification (MICMAC) and Interpretative Structural Model (ISM) methods, and a hierarchical structural model of the factors was constructed. Finally, an intelligent manufacturing system that produces a micro-acoustic material and device was used as an example to verify the accuracy of the proposed method. The results show that the method not only identifies the key brittleness factors in a lean–green manufacturing system but can also provide a guarantee for the safe operation of a manufacturing system. This study provides theoretical guidance for the effective management of intelligent manufacturing systems; moreover, it lays a foundation and provides a new methodology for assessing the vulnerability of manufacturing systems.
Multi-Sensor Data Fusion for Real-Time Multi-Object Tracking
Authors: Senel Numan , Kefferpütz Klaus , Doycheva Kristina , Elger Gordon
Published: February 2023

Sensor data fusion is essential for environmental perception within smart traffic applications. By using multiple sensors cooperatively, the accuracy and probability of the perception are increased, which is crucial for critical traffic scenarios or under bad weather conditions. In this paper, a modular real-time capable multi-sensor fusion framework is presented and tested to fuse data on the object list level from distributed automotive sensors (cameras, radar, and LiDAR). The modular multi-sensor fusion architecture receives an object list (untracked objects) from each sensor. The fusion framework combines classical data fusion algorithms, as it contains a coordinate transformation module, an object association module (Hungarian algorithm), an object tracking module (unscented Kalman filter), and a movement compensation module. Due to the modular design, the fusion framework is adaptable and does not rely on the number of sensors or their types. Moreover, the method continues to operate because of this adaptable design in case of an individual sensor failure. This is an essential feature for safety-critical applications. The architecture targets environmental perception in challenging time-critical applications. The developed fusion framework is tested using simulation and public domain experimental data. Using the developed framework, sensor fusion is obtained well below 10 milliseconds of computing time using an AMD Ryzen 7 5800H mobile processor and the Python programming language. Furthermore, the object-level multi-sensor approach enables the detection of changes in the extrinsic calibration of the sensors and potential sensor failures. A concept was developed to use the multi-sensor framework to identify sensor malfunctions. This feature will become extremely important in ensuring the functional safety of the sensors for autonomous driving.
Competitive Cation Adsorption on Electron-Irradiated Sheep Wool Changes the Fitting of Adsorption Isotherms for Single-Component Solutions
Authors: Porubská Mária , Koóšová Karin , Braniša Jana
Published: February 2023

This work analyses 10 adsorption isotherm models applied to adsorption of Cr(III) and Cu(II) from binary solutions on electron-irradiated sheep wool (0-24-100) kGy. The results are compared with fitting the same adsorbates from corresponding single solutions. The competing cation significantly changes the fitting of the selected isotherms to the extent that even simultaneous fitting of the same cation in the single and binary solution is rare. In the case of Cr(III), 4 favourable matches were found out of 30 compared cases, while in the case of Cu(II), only 2 conformities were found. Having the Cr(III) coordination number exclusively of 6, but Cu(II) up to 4, 5, 6, the last coordinates more easily with the ligands provided by keratin, resulting in preferential chemisorption. If there is still a lack of cysteic acid in the wool to interact with Cr(III) also, this is adsorbed on the wool physically, too. The amount of cysteic acid increasing in the wool with the absorbed dose of energy improves the chemisorption of Cr(III), as well. It can be summarized that during competitive adsorption, Cu(II) binds by chemisorption and Cr(III) by both physisorption and chemisorption, depending on the dose of energy absorbed by the wool.
A Laser Shock-Based Disassembly Process for Adhesively Bonded Ti/CFRP Parts
Authors: Kormpos Panagiotis , Unaldi Selen , Berthe Laurent , Tserpes Konstantinos
Published: February 2023

The application of adhesively bonded joints in aerospace structural parts has increased significantly in recent years and the general advantages of their use are well-documented. One of the disadvantages of adhesive bonding is the relevant permanence, when compared to traditional mechanical fastening. End-of-life processes generally require the separation of the adherents for repair or recycling, and usually to achieve this, they combine large mechanical forces with a high temperature, thus damaging the adherents, while consuming large amounts of energy. In this work, a novel disassembly technique based on laser-induced shock waves is proposed for the disassembly of multi-material adhesively bonded structures. The laser shock technique can generate high tensile stresses that are able to break a joint, while being localized enough to avoid damaging the involved adherents. The process is applied to specimens made from a 3D-woven CFRP core bonded to a thin Ti layer, which is a common assembly used in state-of-the-art aircraft fan blades. The experimental process has been progressively developed. First, a single-sided shot is applied, while the particle velocity is measured at the back face of the material. This method proves ineffective for damage creation and led to a symmetric laser configuration, so that the tensile stress can be controlled and focused on the bond line. The symmetric approach is proved capable of generating a debonding between the Ti and the CFRP and propagating it by moving the laser spot. Qualitative assessment of the damage that is created during the symmetric experimental process indicates that the laser shock technique can be used as a material separation method.
Optimization of the Automated Production Process Using Software Simulation Tools
Authors: Janeková Jaroslava , Fabianová Jana , Kádárová Jaroslava
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this article is to point out the need to use software simulation tools in industrial practice to optimize the production process and assess the economic effectiveness of investment, including risk. The goal of the research is to find an optimal investment variant to ensure an increase in the production volume of at least 50% and to achieve the maximum economic efficiency of the investment, even considering the risk. The article presents a comprehensive approach that enables the achievement of the set research goal. The selection of the optimal version of the investment is carried out in three steps. Firstly, the versions of the investment variants are assessed from the production point of view using the program Tecnomatix Plant Simulation. Subsequently, the versions of the investment variants are assessed from an economic point of view and from a risk point of view. Economic efficiency is assessed using the financial criteria net present value (NPV), profitability index (PI), and discounted payback period (DPP), and risk analysis is carried out using Monte Carlo simulations. Finally, the accepted outputs are evaluated overall using a multi-criteria method, namely the method of partial order.
God(s)’ Mind(s) across Culture and Context
Authors: McNamara Rita Anne
Published: February 2023

This paper explores dimensions of culture and practice that shape the cognitive pathways leading to different beliefs about God(s)’ mind(s). Varying socio-ecological sources of insecurity are linked to types and modes of cognitive processing, which in turn promote different constellations of beliefs about supernatural agents dubbed the heuristic and non-heuristic models of God(s)’ mind(s). The heuristic model is suggested to take prominence when relatively few cognitive resources are available to devote to thinking about God(s)’ mind(s); these conceptions of God(s) should be shaped by the socio-ecological pressures believers face. Conversely, when cognitive resources are available, differences in modes of processing (experiential-intuitive vs. analytical-rational) lead to different mystical and theological/philosophical models of God’s mind as a product of more deliberate, effortful processing. By linking beliefs to socio-ecological influences, this paper suggests phenomenological experiences of the supernatural vary across societies as a direct function of the diverse environmental constraints in which people. By linking belief to socio-ecological pressures individuals in societies face, this approach provides a bridge between the intrinsic meaning systems within communities of belief and the cognitive evolutionary approach to parsing the diversity of belief across societies.
Symbol Preaching in the Digital Age: From Symbol Recognition to Symbol Interpretation in Facebook Ads
Authors: Hegy Pierre Martin
Published: February 2023

The thesis of this paper is that in the digital age we are moving away from words and concepts characteristic of the print age, towards the use of images and symbols. I distinguish between objective symbols as in mathematics, and cultural symbols as in poetry and religion. Students must learn to move from recognizing the objective rules of language to internalizing the norms of culture, according to the analogy of learning. Ricoeur’s theory of interpretation explains the passage from recognition to interpretation in the cultural sciences. This passage is not only cognitive but also implies the discovery of an experiential dimension, as in poetry and worship. This theory is applied to the findings from religious ads on Facebook. By creating new audiences by trial and error, the number of viewers increased from 1 K to up to 100 K. The analysis revealed that viewers showed little interest in informational and moralistic ads, but favored symbolic presentations of the Passion, the Resurrection, the Transfiguration, the Eucharist, the origin of evil, etc. The conclusion offers guidelines: the need to advertise, to adapt to audiences, to get feedback, and to preach through symbols rather than concepts.
A Review on Methods for Measurement of Free Water Surface
Authors: Rak Gašper , Hočevar Marko , Kolbl Repinc Sabina , Novak Lovrenc , Bizjan Benjamin
Published: February 2023

Turbulent free-surface flows are encountered in several engineering applications and are typically characterized by the entrainment of air bubbles due to intense mixing and surface deformation. The resulting complex multiphase structure of the air–water interface presents a challenge in precise and reliable measurements of the free-water-surface topography. Conventional methods by manometers, wave probes, point gauges or electromagnetic/ultrasonic devices are proven and reliable, but also time-consuming, with limited accuracy and are mostly intrusive. Accurate spatial and temporal measurements of complex three-dimensional free-surface flows in natural and man-made hydraulic structures are only viable by high-resolution non-contact methods, namely, LIDAR-based laser scanning, photogrammetric reconstruction from cameras with overlapping field of view, or laser triangulation that combines laser ranging with high-speed imaging data. In the absence of seeding particles and optical calibration targets, sufficient flow aeration is essential for the operation of both laser- and photogrammetry-based methods, with local aeration properties significantly affecting the measurement uncertainty of laser-based methods.
Research on Real-Time Robust Optimization of Perishable Supply-Chain Systems Based on Digital Twins
Authors: Wu Yingnian , Zhang Jing , Li Qingkui , Tan Hao
Published: February 2023

Aiming at the real-time robust optimization problem of perishable supply-chain systems in complex environments, a real-time robust optimization scheme based on supply-chain digital twins is proposed. Firstly, based on the quantitative logical relationship between production and sales of single-chain series supply-chain system products, the state space equation of the supply-chain system with logical characteristics, structural characteristics, and quantitative characteristics was constructed, and twin data were introduced to construct the digital twins of supply chains based on the state-space equation. Secondly, the perishable supply-chain system in complex environments was regarded as an uncertain closed-loop system from the perspective of the state space equation, and then a robust H∞ controller design strategy was proposed, and the supply-chain digital twins was used to update and correct the relevant parameters of the supply-chain system in real-time, to implement the real-time robust optimization based on the supply-chain digital twins. Finally, the simulation experiment was carried out with a cake supply-chain production as an example. The experimental results show that the real-time updating of relevant parameters through the digital twins can help enterprise managers to formulate reasonable management plans, effectively avoid the shortage problem of enterprises in the cake supply-chain system, and reduce the maximum inventory movement standard deviation of each link by 12.65%, 6.50%, and 14.87%, and the maximum production movement standard deviation by 70.21%, 56.84%, and 45.19%.
Pedotransfer Functions for Estimating Soil Bulk Density Using Image Analysis of Soil Structure
Authors: Bryk Maja , Kołodziej Beata
Published: February 2023

Soil bulk density is one of the most important soil properties. When bulk density cannot be measured by direct laboratory methods, prediction methods are used, e.g., pedotransfer functions (PTFs). However, existing PTFs have not yet incorporated information on soil structure although it determines soil bulk density. We aimed therefore at development of new PTFs for predicting soil bulk density using data on soil macrostructure obtained from image analysis. In the laboratory soil bulk density (BD), texture and total organic carbon were measured. On the basis of image analysis, soil macroporosity was evaluated to calculate bulk density by image analysis (BDim) and number of macropore cross-sections of diameter ≥5 mm was determined and classified (MP5). Then, we created PTFs that involve soil structure parameters, in the form BD~BDim + MP5 or BD~BDim. We also compared the proposed PTFs with selected existing ones. The proposed PTFs had mean prediction error from 0 to −0.02 Mg m−3, modelling efficiency of 0.17–0.39 and prediction coefficient of determination of 0.35–0.41. The proposed PTFs including MP5 better predicted boundary BDs, although the intermediate BD values were more scattered than for the existing PTFs. The observed relationships indicated the usefulness of image analysis data for assessing soil bulk density which enabled to develop new PTFs. The proposed models allow to obtain the bulk density when only images of the soil structure are available, without any other data.