bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Soybean Protein Extraction with Ammonium Hydroxide (NH4OH) Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Bello Ibrahim , Adeniyi Adewale , Mukaila Taofeek , Hammed Ademola
Published: April 2023

Plants have been recognized as renewable and sustainable sources of proteins. However, plant protein extraction is challenged by the plant’s recalcitrant cell wall. The conventional extraction methods make use of non-reusable strong alkali chemicals in protein-denaturing extraction conditions. In this study, soy protein was extracted using NH4OH, a weak, recoverable, and reusable alkali. The extraction conditions were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). A central composite design (CCD) with four independent variables: temperature (25, 40, 55, 70, and 85 °C); NH4OH concentration (0.5, 1, and 1.5%); extraction time (6, 12, 18, and 24 h) and solvent ratio (1:5, 1:10, 1:15 and 1:20 w/v) were used to study the response variables (protein yield and amine concentration). Amine concentration indicates the extent of protein hydrolysis. The RSM model equation for the independent and response variables was computed and used to create the contour plots. A predicted yield of 64.89% protein and 0.19 mM amine revealed a multiple R-squared value of 0.83 and 0.78, respectively. The optimum conditions to obtain the maximum protein yield (65.66%) with the least amine concentration (0.14 Mm) were obtained with 0.5% NH4OH concentration, 12 h extraction time, and a 1:10 (w/v) solvent ratio at 52.5 °C. The findings suggest that NH4OH is suitable to extract soybean protein with little or no impact on protein denaturation.
Ultra-Processed Foods in the Mediterranean Diet according to the NOVA Classification System; A Food Level Analysis of Branded Foods in Greece
Authors: Katidi Alexandra , Vlassopoulos Antonis , Noutsos Stamoulis , Kapsokefalou Maria
Published: April 2023

While the Mediterranean diet (MD) is championed as a healthy and sustainable dietary pattern, the NOVA classification is discussed as a tool to identify ultra-processed foods and further specify healthy food choices. We tested whether the NOVA System aligns with the MD recommendations as presented in the MD pyramids. Foods from the Greek branded food composition database, HelTH, (n = 4581) were scored according to NOVA and assigned to the tiers of the traditional and/or sustainable MD pyramids. Nutritional quality was measured as nutrient content and Nutri-Score grades. NOVA identified 70.2% of all foods as UPFs, and 58.7% or 41.0% of foods included in the sustainable and the traditional MD, respectively. Although foods at the top of the pyramids were mostly (>80%) UPFs, NOVA identified > 50% of foods in the MD base as UPFs. Only 22–39% of foods in the MD base were not UPFs and of high nutritional quality (Nutri-Score A-B). NOVA has low discriminatory capacity across the MD tiers, and it restricts food choices to <30% of foods currently available in supermarkets and <60% within the recommended MD tiers. Therefore, the NOVA classification cannot always identify suitable food choices under the MD pyramid in the modern packaged food environment.
Progress and Prospective of the Industrial Development and Applications of Eco-Friendly Colorants: An Insight into Environmental Impact and Sustainability Issues
Authors: Renita A. Annam , Gajaria Tejal K. , Sathish S. , Kumar J. Aravind , Lakshmi D. Shanthana , Kujawa Joanna , Kujawski Wojciech
Published: April 2023

Color is the prime feature directly associated with the consumer’s attraction and choice of their food. The flavor, safety, and nutritional value of any food product are directly associated with the food color. Natural and synthetic colorants (dyes and pigments) have diversified applications in various sectors such as food, feed, pharmaceutical, textiles, cosmetics, and others. Concerning the food industry, different types of natural and synthetic colorants are available in the market. Synthetic food colorants have gained popularity as they are highly stable and cheaply available. Consumers worldwide prefer delightful foodstuffs but are more concerned about the safety of the food. After its disposal, the colloidal particles present in the synthetic colorants do not allow sunlight to penetrate aquatic bodies. This causes a foul smell and turbidity formation and gives a bad appearance. Furthermore, different studies carried out previously have presented the toxicological, carcinogenic effects, hypersensitivity reactions, and behavioral changes linked to the usage of synthetic colorants. Natural food colorings, however, have nutraceutical qualities that are valuable to human health such as curcumin extracted from turmeric and beta-carotene extracted from carrots. In addition, natural colorants have beneficial properties such as excellent antioxidant properties, antimutagenic, anti-inflammatory, antineoplastic, and antiarthritic effects. This review summarizes the sources of natural and synthetic colorants, their production rate, demand, extraction, and characterization of food colorants, their industrial applications, environmental impact, challenges in the sustainable utilization of natural colorants, and their prospects.
Effect of 100% Oxygen-Modified Atmosphere Packaging on Maintaining the Quality of Fresh-Cut Broccoli during Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Dai Yukexin , Zhao Xiaoyan , Zuo Jinhua , Zheng Yanyan
Published: April 2023

The effect of 100% oxygen (O2)-modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the quality improvement of fresh-cut broccoli stored at 4 °C for 15 days was investigated in this study. The results indicated that, compared to the control group conditions, 100% O2 MAP treatment effectively maintained broccoli sensory evaluation scores, green color, and texture; reduced respiration and chlorophyll degradation; and reduced total bacterial count (TBC), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, electrolyte leakage (EL), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and superoxide (O2−) contents. Furthermore, 100% O2 MAP led to a smaller loss of nutrients and increased antioxidant capacity. In conclusion, the use of 100% O2 MAP is an effective approach for maintaining high-quality fresh-cut broccoli during refrigerated storage at 4 °C.
Parameters Identification and Numerical Simulation for a Fractional Model of Honeybee Population Dynamics
Authors: Georgiev Slavi , Vulkov Lubin
Published: April 2023

In order to investigate the honeybee population dynamics, many differential equation models were proposed. Fractional derivatives incorporate the history of the honeybee population dynamics. We numerically study the inverse problem of parameter identification in models with Caputo and Caputo–Fabrizio differential operators. We use a gradient method of minimizing a quadratic cost functional. We analyze and compare results for the integer (classic) and fractional models. The present work also contains discussion on the efficiency of the numerical methods used. Computational tests with realistic data were performed and are discussed.
Relationships among Physical Activity, Physical Function, and Food Intake in Older Japanese Adults Living in Urban Areas: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fushimi Takashi , Fujihira Kyoko , Takase Hideto , Miyashita Masashi
Published: April 2023

Japan is experiencing a super-ageing society faster than anywhere else in the world. Consequently, extending healthy life expectancy is an urgent social issue. To realize a diet that can support the extension of healthy life expectancy, we studied the quantitative relationships among physical activities (number of steps and activity calculated using an accelerometer), physical functions (muscle strength, movement function, agility, static balance, dynamic balance, and walking function), and dietary intake among 469 older adults living in the Tokyo metropolitan area (65–75 years old; 303 women and 166 men) from 23 February 2017 to 31 March 2018. Physical activities and functions were instrumentally measured, and the dietary survey adopted the photographic record method. There was a significant positive association (p < 0.05) between physical activities (steps, medium-intensity activity, and high-intensity activity) and physical functions (movement function, static balance, and walking function), but no association with muscle strength. These three physical functions were significantly positively correlated with intake of vegetables, seeds, fruits, and milk; with magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6; and with the dietary fibre/carbohydrate composition ratio (p < 0.05). Future intervention trials must verify if balancing diet and nutrition can improve physical activities in older adults through increased physical functions.
The Relationship between Knowing Sign Language and Quality of Life among Italian People Who Are Deaf: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: La Grutta Sabina , Piombo Marco Andrea , Spicuzza Vittoria , Riolo Martina , Fanara Irene , Trombini Elena , Andrei Federica , Epifanio Maria Stella
Published: April 2023

Deafness is a medical condition with important relational implications. This condition could affect well-being and self-esteem and cause social anxiety. Sign language is not only a simple mimic but can be considered as a different kind of communication that could be protective for those who have learned it. However, some people do not use sign language because they think it can be marginalizing. The present study aimed to compare the quality of life (QoL) between people who learned Italian sign language as their first language with those who had never learned it or learned it later. This cross-sectional study involved 182 deaf Italian adults (70.3% females) who were recruited from Ente Nazionale Sordi (ENS) and by the main online deafness groups. The present results suggest that the deaf condition does not seem to significantly affect the dimensions of QoL pertaining to satisfaction and self-esteem, while it could have an effect on preventing high levels of social anxiety and in particular, the group who learned Italian sign language showed significantly less social anxiety than those who had never learned it.
A Prospective Cohort Study of COVID-19: Evaluation of the Early Role of IL-1 and IL-6 Antagonists in Improving the Outcome of the Illness and Reduction in the Risk of Death
Authors: Al. Kharusi Mardheya , Al Sheikh Naffesa , Alhajri Maiya , Al. Mandhri Seif Ali , Khafagy El-Sayed , Moglad Ehssan H. , Alotaibi Hadil Faris , Hegazy Wael A. H.
Published: April 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on global health, economies, and social systems. The crucial factor that determines the success of COVID-19 treatments is preventing the need for mechanical ventilation and intensive care admission. In the context of COVID-19, several treatments have been found to play a role in the disease’s progression and severity. Interleukins (ILs) have been identified as key mediators of the cytokine storm that can occur in severe cases of COVID-19, leading to respiratory failure and other complications. For instance, IL-1 antagonist (anakinra) and IL-6 antagonist (tocilizumab) are supposed to be promising treatments as well as cortisones for COVID-19. This prospective study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of anakinra or tocilizumab in addition to cortisone in preventing the progression of mild to moderate COVID-19 cases to severe intensive care admission. Biochemical and hematological parameters, such as D-dimer, ferritin, LDH, CRP, and white blood cells (WBCs), were measured after treatment with either anakinra or tocilizumab in addition to cortisone or cortisone alone. The study also recorded the number of deaths and patients admitted to intensive care. The results indicate that anakinra significantly improved outcomes and decreased the number of intensive care admissions compared to tocilizumab or cortisone alone. Therefore, anakinra may play a vital role in controlling the progression of COVID-19, and its use in mild to moderate cases may prevent the worsening of the disease to severe stages.
Assisted Reproductive Treatments, Quality of Life, and Alexithymia in Couples
Authors: Renzi Alessia , Fedele Fabiola , Di Trani Michela
Published: April 2023

Infertility and related treatments can negatively affect a couple’s wellbeing. The aim of this study was to evaluate couples starting assisted reproductive treatment, differences in alexithymia and quality of life levels between partners, and the association of these psychological dimensions within the couple’s members. Data was collected in two fertility centres in Rome; 47 couples completed the Fertility Quality of Life (FertiQoL), the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), and a socio-demographic questionnaire. Data analysis showed a worsened quality of life in women compared with their partners, as well as higher externally oriented thinking in men compared with their spouses. Associations between alexithymia and quality of life levels between women and men emerged. According to the regression analysis, a better quality of life in women was predicted by a greater partner’s capabilities in identifying and describing emotion as well as by a better partner’s quality of life, whereas for men, a better quality of life was predicted by their spouse’s higher levels of quality of life. This study highlights the protective role that couples can play in the perception of the negative impact that infertility can have on their partner’s quality of life. Further investigations are needed for the development of specific therapeutic interventions for the promotion of the couples’ wellbeing.
Effectiveness of a Program Based on Action-Observation Training (AOT) on Motor, Functional and Cognitive Aspects in Patients with Cognitive Impairment: A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Estrada-Barranco Cecilia , Martinez-Javaloyes Maria de los Ángeles , Rodriguez-Costa Isabel , Sanz-Esteban Ismael , Bermejo-Franco Alberto , Aranda-Ruiperez Araceli , Gallegos-Martínez Maria de los Ángeles
Published: April 2023

Cognitive impairment is frequent in elderly subjects. It is associated with motor impairment, a limitation in quality of life and frequently, institutionalization. The aim of this work is to test the efficacy of a therapeutic group program based on action-observation learning. Methods: a non-randomized controlled trial study was conducted. We included 40 patients with cognitive impairment from a nursing home who were categorized into mild and moderate cognitive impairment and divided separately into a control and experimental group. Experimental group performed a 4-week group work, in which each patient with mild cognitive impairment was paired with a patient with moderate cognitive impairment. Thus, patients with mild cognitive impairment observed a series of functional exercises performed by their peers and replicated them. Simultaneously, the patients with moderate cognitive impairment replicated the movement after observing it performed by a patient with mild cognitive impairment. The control group continued to receive their usual care at the center. The upper limb function, cognitive level and function in basic activities of human daily life were measured before and after the intervention and compared with the control group. Results: statistically significant differences were found in the functionality of basic activities of daily living, in the functionality of the upper limb and in the cognitive level in all patients in the experimental group regardless of the initial cognitive level. No statistically significant differences were found in the control group. Conclusions: the implementation of a group, peer-based, action-observation learning therapeutic program is effective in improving the basic activities of human daily life, cognitive level and upper limb functionality in patients with mild and moderate dementia.
Investigating Nitrate with Other Constituents in Groundwater in Two Contrasting Tropical Highland Watersheds
Authors: Sishu Feleke K. , Tilahun Seifu A. , Schmitter Petra , Steenhuis Tammo S.
Published: April 2023

Nitrate is globally the most widespread and widely studied groundwater contaminant. However, few studies have been conducted in sub-Saharan Africa, where the leaching potential is enhanced during the rainy monsoon phase. The few monitoring studies found concentrations over drinking water standards of 10 mg N-NO3− L−1 in the groundwater, the primary water supply in rural communities. Studies on nitrate movement are limited to the volcanic Ethiopian highlands. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the transport and fate of nitrate in groundwater and identify processes that control the concentrations. Water table height, nitrate, chloride, ammonium, reduced iron, and three other groundwater constituents were determined monthly in the groundwater in over 30 wells in two contrasting volcanic watersheds over two years in the Ethiopian highlands. The first watershed was Dangishta, with lava intrusion dikes that blocked the subsurface flow in the valley bottom. The water table remained within 3 m of the surface. The second watershed without volcanic barriers was Robit Bata. The water table dropped rapidly within three months of the end of the rain phase and disappeared except near faults. The average nitrate concentration in both watersheds was between 4 and 5 mg N-NO3− L−1. Hydrogeology influenced the transport and fate of nitrogen. In Dangishta, water was blocked by volcanic lava intrusion dikes, and residence time in the aquifer was larger than in Robit Bata. Consequently, nitrate remained high (in several wells, 10 mg N-NO3− L−1) and decreased slowly due to denitrification. In Robit Bata, the water residence time was lower, and peak concentrations were only observed in the month after fertilizer application; otherwise, it was near an average of 4 mg N-NO3− L−1. Nitrate concentrations were predicted using a multiple linear regression model. Hydrology explained the nitrate concentrations in Robit Bata. In Dangishta, biogeochemistry was also significant.
High-Tech Home-Based Rehabilitation after Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bok Soo-Kyung , Song Youngshin , Lim Ancho , Jin Sohyun , Kim Nagyeong , Ko Geumbo
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: To improve existing rehabilitation technologies, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify the effect size of home-based rehabilitation using robotic, virtual reality, and game devices on physical function for stroke survivors. (2) Methods: Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, and CINAHL were used to search the randomized controlled trials that applied technologies via home-based rehabilitation, such as virtual reality, robot-assisted devices, and games. The effect size (Hedges’s g) of technology type and affected limb on physical function were calculated. (3) Results: Ten studies were included. The effect size of home-based rehabilitation in virtual reality had the greatest value (Hedges’s g, 0.850; 95% CI, 0.314–1.385), followed by robot-assisted devices (Hedges’s g, 0.120; 95% CI, 0.003–0.017) and games (Hedges’s g, −0.162; 95% CI, −0.036 to −0.534). The effect size was larger in the upper limbs (Hedges’s g, 0.287; 95% CI, 0.128–0.447) than in the lower limbs (Hedges’s g, −0.113; 95% CI, −0.547 to 0.321). (4) Conclusions: Virtual reality home rehabilitation was highly effective for physical function compared to other rehabilitation technologies. Interventions that consisted of a pre-structured and tailored program applied to the upper limbs were effective for physical function and psychological outcomes.
Psychosocial Factors Affecting Drug Relapse among Youth in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Malik Najma Iqbal , Saleem Sidra , Ullah Irfan , Rehan Syeda Tayyaba , De Berardis Domenico , Atta Mohsin
Published: April 2023

The present study was intended to examine the effect of psychosocial factors on the stigma of mental illness among people addicted to drugs who have relapsed in Punjab, Pakistan. A sample composed of 116 people addicted to drugs and who have relapsed was collected through the purposive sampling technique. Certain self-report measures were used to assess the pertinent study variables. The results elucidated that self-efficacy, social support, and conscientiousness were found to be negative predictors and neuroticism a positive predictor of stigma. The results also confirmed social support as being a significant moderator in the relationship between self-efficacy and stigma, and self-efficacy as being a significant moderator in the relationship between social support and stigma. It was safe to conclude that psychosocial factors such as self-efficacy, social support, personality traits and stigma have a significant role in causing addiction relapse. The conclusions made have been discussed thoroughly.
The Clinical Presentation of Endometriosis and Its Association to Current Surgical Staging
Authors: Ashkenazi Matilda Shaked , Huseby Ole Linvåg , Kroken Gard , Trocha Marcela , Henriksson Aurora , Jasiak Hanna , Cuartas Karen , Loschiavo Alessandra , Kuhn Isabella , Støve Dina , Grindahl Hanna , Latour Emilia , Melbø Mathias , Holstad Katrine , Kwiatkowski Sebastian
Published: April 2023

(1) Despite its high prevalence, the diagnostic delay of endometriosis is still estimated to be about 7 years. The objective of the present study is to understand the symptomatology of endometriosis in patients across various countries and to assess whether the severity of symptoms correlates with the diagnosed stage of disease. (2) An international online survey collected self-reported responses from 2964 participants from 59 countries. Finalization of the questionnaire and its distribution was achieved by cooperation with various organizations and centers around the globe. (3) Chronic pain presentation remarkably increased between Stage 1 and 2 (16.2% and 32.2%, respectively). The prevalence of pain only around and during menstruation was negatively correlated to the stage, presenting with 15.4% and 6.9% in Stages 1 and 4, respectively. Atypical presentation of pain was most commonly reported in stage 4 (11.4%). Pain related solely to triggering factors was the most uncommon presentation of pain (3.2%). (4) Characteristics of pain and quality of life tend to differ depending on the reported stage of the endometriosis. Further research may allow a better stage estimation and identification of patients with alarming symptomatic presentation indicative of a progressive stage, even those that are not yet laparoscopically diagnosed.
Liquid Biopsy and Cancer: An Ongoing Story
Authors: Di Zazzo Erika , Intrieri Mariano , Davinelli Sergio
Published: April 2023

The concept that body fluids may reveal the presence of disease dates back to ancient Greek history, when Hippocrates (ca [...]
Synergistic Action between Copper Oxide (CuO) Nanoparticles and Anthraquinone-2-Carboxylic Acid (AQ) against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Srivastava Prakhar , Kim Yongjun , Cho Hyejin , Kim Kwang-sun
Published: April 2023

Infections linked to Staphylococcus spp. are difficult to treat with current antibiotic therapy, resulting in increased antibiotic resistance populations. One of the leading strategies to overcome this issue is the novel combination of antibacterial nanoparticles (NPs) and sustainable natural compounds. This study reported the identification of a new synergistic combination of copper oxide (CuO) NPs, a well-known antibacterial agent against Staphylococcus spp., and anthraquinone-2-carboxylic acid (AQ), a plant-derived antimicrobial compound, with a potent and specific fashion in killing Staphylococcus spp. CuO NPs were synthesized using the one-pot coprecipitation method and characterized by using X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Further checkerboard analysis showed that CuO NPs and AQ increased the antibacterial activity of individual agents against Staphylococcus aureus among Staphylococcus spp. by four- to eightfold compared to individual materials. Additional mechanistic studies on the synergy revealed that the inhibition of biofilm formation and loss of cytoplasmic volume with cell shrinkage are the major actions of the combination in expressing the phenotype. This study clearly showed that the combination of CuO NPs and AQ would be a novel strategy to eradicate S. aureus infections.
Correlation of the Structural Characteristics of an Artificial Oyster Reef with Its Wake Region
Authors: Kim Minju , Jung Somi , Chau Than Van , Na Won-Bae
Published: April 2023

Oyster reefs are currently at risk of severe decline due to dangerous human interference and its aftermath; hence, artificial oyster reefs (AORs) have been utilized for their restoration. AORs with high vertical reliefs interact with the surrounding flow, constitute a reverse flow, and create a wake region in which concentrated nutrients and food organisms exist. However, the correlations of the structural characteristics of an AOR with its wake regions have not been studied. Thus, we established 96 AOR models, carried out flow analyses, and obtained their wake volumes, considering shell orientation, composition, penetration depth, and growth stage. We found that the growth stage is the most critical parameter for establishing a normalized wake volume. This implies that the number of oyster shells (N) is the most critical factor in securing a normalized wake volume, in which their correlation was linear and significant (R2=0.89). We also found that the correlations of the normalized wake volume with blocking and surface complexity indices were linearly significant, respectively. Additionally, wake volume efficiency increased with the number of oyster shells; specifically, the criterion for wake volume efficiency of EI (efficiency index) ≥ 2.0 was satisfied when N≥50 per 900 cm2.
Numerical and Experimental Study on NOx Reduction According to the Load in the SCR System of a Marine Boiler
Authors: Lee Jeong-Uk , Hwang Sung-Chul , Han Seung-Hun
Published: April 2023

Numerical analysis and experimental studies were conducted to evaluate the performance of a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system according to the load of a 1.5-ton marine boiler. There are post-treatment methods for reducing the exhaust gas emitted from ships, such as low-sulfur oil, scrubber, a desulfurization device to remove sulfur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter, an exhaust gas recirculation system, and SCR agents to reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx). Furthermore, there are methods of using eco-friendly natural gas fuels, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), methanol, liquefied petroleum gas, and ammonia. In the case of LNG, SOx and particulate matter are hardly emitted, and only a small amount of NOx is emitted compared to an internal combustion engine. Therefore, SCR system technology that can remove NOx needs to be applied. As a result of this study, the boiler load increased, and the flow velocity through the outlet decreased. In addition, the NOx emissions of diesel fuel and LNG fuel were reduced by 100% to 0 ppm when the boiler load ratio was 50%. When the load ratio was 75%, the NOx emissions of diesel fuel were reduced by 77.4% to 40 ppm, and those of LNG fuel were reduced by 64.1% to 24 ppm. When the load ratio was 100%, the NOx emissions of diesel fuel were reduced by 66.1% to 60 ppm, and those of LNG fuel were reduced by 47.8% to 24 ppm. In addition, the results of the numerical analysis according to boiler load were almost identical to the experimental results. Finally, this study could design an optimal SCR system through numerical analysis, according to the important parameters of the SCR system.
Measurement of Financial Competence—Designing a Complex Framework Model for a Complex Assessment Instrument
Authors: Kraitzek Andreas , Förster Manuel
Published: April 2023

Financial competence is seen as a complex ability necessary for people to deal with personal financial issues on a daily basis. To foster young peoples’ financial competence via sophisticated and tailored educational programs, the identification of “competence gaps” through complex and authentic assessments is required. While a large number of assessment tools in the field of personal finance already exist, many of them suffer from different shortcomings concerning a competence-oriented approach. Therefore, we present an innovative way to assess students’ financial competence with a complex performance scenario about financial investment. The presented instrument is built on a specifically designed theoretical framework and addresses the need for holistic financial competence measurement. Results of pretesting trials indicate that the instrument is generally capable of measuring young learners’ financial competence, but challenges in scoring remain. Against this background, implications for the instrument’s iterative enhancement are presented and discussed with reference to validity and reliability properties, scoring issues, and statements about the overall feasibility of complex performance tasks in educational settings. The first draft of a scoring scheme is provided. The potential of the instrument in combination with modern technology-based measurement methods (eye tracking, emotion recognition) for competence assessment is described and suggestions for further research are outlined.
Investment Efficiency and Earnings Quality: European Evidence
Authors: Gaio Cristina , Gonçalves Tiago , Cardoso João
Published: April 2023

This study aims to analyze the relationship between earnings quality and investment efficiency in the European context, in order to understand whether higher earnings quality mitigates investment inefficiencies. To further understand the relationship between earnings quality and investment efficiency, the roles of cash and financial constraints are also analyzed. We use firm-year data based on unbalanced panel data, and control for country, year, and industry fixed effects using a sample composed of listed and unlisted European companies from 19 countries and 17 industries for the period 2010–2018. The results show a positive and significant relationship between earnings quality and investment efficiency. In both scenarios of investment inefficiency, overinvestment and underinvestment, the results suggest that a higher quality of reported earnings mitigates investment inefficiencies. The results also suggest that the negative relationship holds for cash-constrained and unconstrained firms, and that in firms that are financially unconstrained (higher levels of cash and lower levels of leverage) the combined effect with earnings quality is associated with a lower investment efficiency.
Distribution, Risk Assessment and Source Identification of Potentially Toxic Elements in Coal Mining Contaminated Soils of Makarwal, Pakistan: Environmental and Human Health Outcomes
Authors: Ali Liaqat , Ali Shehzad , Khattak Seema Anjum , Janjuhah Hammad Tariq , Kontakiotis George , Hussain Rahib , Rukh Shah , Shah Mohammad Tahir , Bathrellos George D. , Skilodimou Hariklia D.
Published: April 2023

The present research was carried out to examine the health and environmental impacts associated with coal mining activities in the Makarwal coal mining area in Pakistan. To achieve the objectives, 41 soil samples were collected from the coalmine-affected areas and analyzed for major and toxic trace elements (TTEs) using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Most of the soil samples have extremely high concentrations of toxic metals such as Ni, Cd, Cr, Cu, Zn, and Pb. The positive correlations and high concentration of trace elements in the Makarwal coalmine-affected region suggest an analogous origin of soil contamination. The factor analysis (FA) showed two components, i.e., F1 (53.4%) and F (74.21%), of total variability for soil. The F2 was loaded with Pb, Zn, Ni, and Cr, which was similar to cluster 2, while the F1 was loaded with Cu and Cr, having a similar pattern to cluster 1. This proves that the contamination in the surrounding area is mostly associated with geological ore strata existing in the Makarwal coalfield. Based on geoaccumulation (Igeo), the elemental concentration in the studied soil sample could be categorized as follows: (1) Pb, Ni, and Zn are moderate to severely polluted and (2) Cr and Cu are in the moderately polluted category. The ecological risk indices (ERIs) of the single trace element contamination index highlighted that Cd, Pb, Ni, and Cr pose a high risk to humans and the ecosystem. Based on different statistical tools performed for the source identification and distribution of metal contamination, it seems that the exposed sedimentary rocks, including limestone, dolomite, sandstone, and coal, are responsible for the toxic metal contamination in the study area.
Robust Control for the Hybrid Energy System of an Electric Loader
Authors: Ma Yuchuan , Wang Qiao , Ye Min , Lian Gaoqi
Published: April 2023

With the wide application of electric vehicles and the development of battery technology, pure electric construction machinery (PECM) has received more and more attention due to its high efficiency and no pollution. The working conditions of construction machinery are complex and accompanied by periodical working conditions and heavy load. For electric construction machinery, a heavy load represents an energy supply with a large current. To adapt to the working conditions of PECM, this paper proposes a robust controller to regulate the current of the hybrid energy system (HES) which include the battery and supercapacitor. The V-type operating conditions of a 5-ton pure electric loader are the research focus to analyze the working principles of the HES. The topology and energy flow patterns of the HES are proposed and analyzed. The model of the battery, supercapacitor, and DC/DC converter are depicted, and the robust control method is designed. An electric loader experiment platform is created to verify the effectiveness of the robust control method. Compared with the proportional integral control effect, the experiment results show that the proposed control method had good control performance and could better regulate the current. It can be used as a reference value for other dual energy source PECM.
Quiescent Optical Solitons for the Concatenation Model with Nonlinear Chromatic Dispersion
Authors: Yıldırım Yakup , Biswas Anjan , Moraru Luminita , Alghamdi Abdulah A.
Published: April 2023

This paper recovers quiescent optical solitons that are self-sustaining, localized wave packets that maintain their shape and amplitude over long distances due to a balance between nonlinearity and dispersion. When a soliton is in a state of quiescence, it means that it is stationary in both space and time. Quiescent optical solitons are typically observed in optical fibers, where nonlinearity and dispersion can lead to the formation of solitons. The concatenation model is considered to understand the behavior of optical pulses propagating through nonlinear media. Here, we consider the familiar nonlinear Schrödinger equation, the Lakshmanan–Porsezian–Daniel equation, and the Sasa–Satsuma equation. The current paper also addresses the model with nonlinear chromatic dispersion, a phenomenon that occurs in optical fibers and other dispersive media, where the chromatic dispersion of the material is modified by nonlinear effects. In the presence of nonlinearities, such as self-phase modulation and cross-phase modulation, the chromatic dispersion coefficient becomes a function of the optical intensity, resulting in nonlinear chromatic dispersion. A full spectrum of stationary optical solitons, along with straddled stationary solitons, are obtained. There are four integration schemes that made this retrieval possible. The numerical simulations are also included for these solitons. The parameter constraints also indicate the existence criteria for these quiescent solitons.
Gain Scheduled Fault Detection Filter for Markovian Jump Linear System with Nonhomogeneous Markov Chain
Authors: Carvalho Leonardo , Palma Jonathan M. , Morais Cecília F. , Jayawardhana Bayu , Costa Oswaldo L. V.
Published: April 2023

In a networked control system scenario, the packet dropout is usually modeled by a time-invariant (homogeneous) Markov chain (MC) process. However, from a practical point of view, the probabilities of packet loss can vary in time and/or probability parameter dependency. Therefore, to design a fault detection filter (FDF) implemented in a semi-reliable communication network, it is important to consider the variation in time of the network parameters, by assuming the more accurate scenario provided by a nonhomogeneous jump system. Such a premise can be properly taken into account within the linear parameter varying (LPV) framework. In this sense, this paper proposes a new design method of H∞ gain-scheduled FDF for Markov jump linear systems under the assumption of a nonhomogeneous MC. To illustrate the applicability of the theoretical solution, a numerical simulation is presented.
Kinetics of a Reaction-Diffusion Mtb/SARS-CoV-2 Coinfection Model with Immunity
Authors: Algarni Ali , Al Agha Afnan D. , Fayomi Aisha , Al Garalleh Hakim
Published: April 2023

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) coinfection has been observed in a number of nations and it is connected with severe illness and death. The paper studies a reaction–diffusion within-host Mtb/SARS-CoV-2 coinfection model with immunity. This model explores the connections between uninfected epithelial cells, latently Mtb-infected epithelial cells, productively Mtb-infected epithelial cells, SARS-CoV-2-infected epithelial cells, free Mtb particles, free SARS-CoV-2 virions, and CTLs. The basic properties of the model’s solutions are verified. All equilibrium points with the essential conditions for their existence are calculated. The global stability of these equilibria is established by adopting compatible Lyapunov functionals. The theoretical outcomes are enhanced by implementing numerical simulations. It is found that the equilibrium points mirror the single infection and coinfection states of SARS-CoV-2 with Mtb. The threshold conditions that determine the movement from the monoinfection to the coinfection state need to be tested when developing new treatments for coinfected patients. The impact of the diffusion coefficients should be monitored at the beginning of coinfection as it affects the initial distribution of particles in space.
Assessment of the Effect of Thermal-Assisted Machining on the Machinability of SKD11 Alloy Steel
Authors: Mac Thi-Bich , Luyen The-Thanh , Nguyen Duc-Toan
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Thermal-Assisted Machining (TAM) on SKD11 alloy steel using titanium-coated hard-alloy insert cutting tools. The microstructure, material hardness, chip color, cutting force, chip shrinkage coefficient, roughness, and vibration during TAM were evaluated under uniform cutting conditions. The machining process was monitored using advanced equipment. The results indicated that thermal-assisted processing up to 400 °C did not alter the microstructure and hardness of the SKD11 alloy steel. However, a significant variation in chip color was observed, indicating improved heat transfer through TAM. The cutting force, vibration amplitude of the workpiece, and surface roughness all decreased with increasing TAM. Conversely, the chip shrinkage coefficient of the machined chips tended to increase due to the high temperatures.
A Review on the Corrosion and Fatigue Failure of Gas Turbines
Authors: Fathyunes Leila , Mohtadi-Bonab M. A.
Published: April 2023

Since gas turbines are used in airplanes, ship engines and power plants, they play a significant role in providing sustainable energy. Turbines are designed for a certain lifetime according to their operating conditions and the failure mechanisms they deal with. However, most of them experience unexpected and catastrophic failure as a result of synergistic effects of more than one damage mechanism. One of the main causes of failure in turbines is corrosion fatigue, which results from the combination of cyclic loads and corrosive environments. In the current review paper, an attempt has been made to investigate the damages related to corrosion and fatigue in turbines such as fatigue corrosion, hot corrosion and oxidation, thermomechanical fatigue, emphasizing their synergistic effect. In this regard, the mechanism of fatigue crack initiation and growth in a corrosive environment is also taken into consideration. Moreover, a summary of the results reported in the literature regarding the influence of the loading conditions, characteristics of the corrosive environment and properties of the turbine materials on this failure is presented. Finally, common methods of dealing with corrosion fatigue damage, including surface treatment and cathodic protection, are briefly reviewed.
The Prevalence of Genital Mycoplasmas and Coinfection with Trichomonas vaginalis in Female Patients in Vienna, Austria
Authors: Hoxha Ina , Lesiak-Markowicz Iwona , Walochnik Julia , Stary Angelika , Fürnkranz Ursula
Published: April 2023

Trichomonas vaginalis causes trichomoniasis, the most recurrent sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide. Genital mycoplasmas, not considered STI agents, are frequently isolated from the female genital tract. A symbiosis between Mycoplasma species and T. vaginalis has been described. The aim of this study was to conduct molecular-based analyses of vaginal specimens, thus assessing the prevalence of non-STI Mycoplasma infections. In total, 582 samples from female patients and an additional 20 T. vaginalis isolates were analyzed by PCR using Mycoplasma specific 16S rRNA primers, and the obtained PCR products were sequenced. Mycoplasma species were detected in 28.2% of the collected vaginal samples. Mycoplasma hominis was found in 21.5% of the specimens, Ureaplasma species were found in 7.5% of the samples. The molecular data of the newly described species, CandidatusMycoplasma girerdii, were obtained for the first time in Austria, in a sample also positive for T. vaginalis. Analyses of the cultivated T. vaginalis strains confirmed the presence of M. hominis in two out of 20 samples. A comparably high prevalence of genital mycoplasmas was revealed through advanced diagnostic assays, with M. hominis and U. parvum being the most prevalent species. The previously described symbiotic relationship between M. hominis and T. vaginalis was confirmed.
Synthesis of High Specific Surface Lithium-Ion Sieve Templated by Bacterial Cellulose for Selective Adsorption of Li+
Authors: Zhang Xi , Zheng Xudong , Xu Tongtong , Zhang Yuzhe , Li Guomeng , Li Zhongyu
Published: April 2023

In recent years, with the development of batteries, ceramics, glass and other industries, the demand for lithium has increased rapidly. Due to the rich lithium resources in seawater and salt-lake brine, the question of how to selectively adsorb and separate lithium ions from such brine has attracted the attention and research of many scholars. The Li-ion sieve stands out from other methods thanks to its excellent special adsorption and separation performance. In this paper, mesoporous titanium dioxide and lithium hydroxide were prepared by hydrothermal reaction using bacterial cellulose as a biological template. After calcination at 600 °C, spinel lithium titanium oxide Li2TiO3 was formed. The precursor was eluted with HCl eluent to obtain H2TiO3. The lithium titanate were characterized by IR, SEM and X-ray diffraction. The adsorption properties of H2TiO3 were studied by adsorption pH, adsorption kinetics, adsorption isotherm and competitive adsorption. The results show that H2TiO3 has a single-layer chemical adsorption process, and has a good adsorption effect on lithium ions at pH 11.0, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 35.45 mg g−1. The lithium-ion sieve can selectively adsorb Li+, and its partition coefficient is 2242.548 mL g−1. It can be predicted that the lithium-ion sieve prepared by biological template will have broad application prospects.
Precise Determination of Magnetic Gradient Relaxation of Coupled Atomic Spin Ensemble in Spin-Exchange Relaxation-Free Co-Magnetometer
Authors: Fang Xiujie , Wei Kai , Fan Wenfeng , Li Siran , Cao Qian , Quan Wei , Zhai Yueyang , Xiao Zhisong
Published: April 2023

Inside a spin-exchange relaxation-free (SERF) co-magnetometer with a high-pressure buffer gas atomic cell, the magnetic field gradient causes the decoherence of atomic spins to produce magnetic-field gradient relaxation. This paper presents a new method for the accurate measurement of magnetic field gradient relaxation of alkali metal atoms and inert atoms of strongly coupled spin systems under triaxial magnetic field gradients in the K-Rb-21Ne co-magnetometer. The magnetic field gradient relaxation of alkali metal atoms is measured using a step magnetic field modulation method, and the magnetic field gradient relaxation of inert atoms is measured using a combined free induction decay and spin growth method. The method does not require the use of large background magnetic fields and RF fields to maintain the atoms in the SERF state, does not require additional optics, and is not affected by the pumping or detecting of optical power. A kinetic model that considers a large electron-equivalent magnetic field was designed and a gradient relaxation model was developed. The quadratic coefficients of the experimentally measured gradient relaxation curves fit the theoretical model well over the range of the applied magnetic field gradients, confirming the validity of the proposed method.
Full-Color and Anti-Counterfeit Printings with All-Dielectric Chiral Metasurfaces
Authors: Li Longjie , Li He , Hu Huakui , Shang Xiao , Xue Huiwen , Hu Jinyu , Lu Cheng , Zhao Shengjie , Niu Jiebin , Shi Lina
Published: April 2023

Structural color is anticipated to replace pigmented or chemical color due to its superior saturation, resolution, environmental friendliness, and longevity. We achieve a full-color gamut of structural colors and anti-counterfeit functions by an all-dielectric chiral metasurface consisting of half-gammadion-shaped resonators embedded in PMMA and a top TiO2 layer on quartz coated with an ITO layer. The prominent resonance peaks of this embedded chiral metasurface under the cross-polarization condition, which are provided by the polarization conversion features of the chiral structure, lead to extremely saturated structural colors. The color phase mainly depends on the structure’s period, opening up a full-color range well beyond sRGB. Especially, we demonstrate a star with hidden information of the letter “A” and the Chinese word “李龙杰” by taking advantage of the difference in the color phase change under different polarization conditions to decode the information, thus realizing the anti-counterfeiting function. Our proposed embedded chiral metasurface provides dual-function structural colors and is highly promising for micro-display, nanoprinting, anti-counterfeiting, data storage, and information encryption.
2 × 2 Compact Silicon Waveguide-Based Optical Logic Functions at 1.55 μm
Authors: Kotb Amer , Zoiros Kyriakos E.
Published: April 2023

Compact waveguide crossing is a fundamental component of optoelectronic fusion chip solutions due to its orders-of-magnitude smaller footprint than that of conventional photonic integrated circuits. In this paper, we suggest 2 × 2 compact silicon-on-silica waveguides that can implement all of the fundamental Boolean logic functions, including XOR, AND, OR, NOT, NOR, XNOR, and NAND, operated at 1.55 μm. Three input waveguides, one output waveguide, and a design area compose the proposed waveguide. The execution of the specified logic gates relies on the constructive and destructive interferences produced by the phase variations between the input beams. The contrast ratio (CR) is employed as a performance metric to assess how well these logic functions operate. In comparison to other reported designs, the proposed waveguide achieves higher CRs at a high speed of 120 Gb/s.