bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Neuromodulatory Effects of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) on Plasmatic Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) Levels and Visuospatial Abilities in Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Authors: Cirillo Giovanni , Pepe Roberta , Siciliano Mattia , Ippolito Domenico , Ricciardi Dario , de Stefano Manuela , Buonanno Daniela , Atripaldi Danilo , Abbadessa Salvatore , Perfetto Brunella , Sharbafshaaer Minoo , Sepe Giovanna , Bonavita Simona , Iavarone Alessandro , Todisco Vincenzo , Papa Michele , Tedeschi Gioacchino , Esposito Sabrina , Trojsi Francesca
Published: February 2023

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that is used against cognitive impairment in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the rTMS therapeutic effects are still only partially investigated. Maladaptive plasticity, glial activation, and neuroinflammation, including metalloproteases (MMPs) activation, might represent new potential targets of the neurodegenerative process and progression from MCI to AD. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of bilateral rTMS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) on plasmatic levels of MMP1, -2, -9, and -10; MMPs-related tissue inhibitors TIMP1 and TIMP2; and cognitive performances in MCI patients. Patients received high-frequency (10 Hz) rTMS (MCI-TMS, n = 9) or sham stimulation (MCI-C, n = 9) daily for four weeks, and they were monitored for six months after TMS. The plasmatic levels of MMPs and TIMPs and the cognitive and behavioral scores, based on the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), Beck Depression Inventory II, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Apathy Evaluation Scale, were assessed at baseline (T0) and after 1 month (T1) and 6 months (T2) since rTMS. In the MCI-TMS group, at T2, plasmatic levels of MMP1, -9, and -10 were reduced and paralleled by increased plasmatic levels of TIMP1 and TIMP2 and improvement of visuospatial performances. In conclusion, our findings suggest that targeting DLPFC by rTMS might result in the long-term modulation of the MMPs/TIMPs system in MCI patients and the neurobiological mechanisms associated with MCI progression to dementia.
Olive Polyphenol Oxidase Gene Family
Authors: Sánchez Rosario , Arroyo Laura , Luaces Pilar , Sanz Carlos , Pérez Ana G.
Published: February 2023

The phenolic compounds containing hydroxytyrosol are the minor components of virgin olive oil (VOO) with the greatest impact on its functional properties and health benefits. Olive breeding for improving the phenolic composition of VOO is strongly dependent on the identification of the key genes determining the biosynthesis of these compounds in the olive fruit and also their transformation during the oil extraction process. In this work, olive polyphenol oxidase (PPO) genes have been identified and fully characterized in order to evaluate their specific role in the metabolism of hydroxytyrosol-derived compounds by combining gene expression analysis and metabolomics data. Four PPO genes have been identified, synthesized, cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli, and the functional identity of the recombinant proteins has been verified using olive phenolic substrates. Among the characterized genes, two stand out: (i) OePPO2 with its diphenolase activity, which is very active in the oxidative degradation of phenols during oil extraction and also seems to be highly involved in the natural defense mechanism in response to biotic stress, and (ii) OePPO3, which codes for a tyrosinase protein, having diphenolase but also monophenolase activity, which catalyzes the hydroxylation of tyrosol to form hydroxytyrosol.
APE1/Ref-1 Inhibits Adipogenic Transcription Factors during Adipocyte Differentiation in 3T3-L1 Cells
Authors: Lee Eun-Ok , Joo Hee-Kyoung , Lee Yu-Ran , Kim Sungmin , Lee Kwon-Ho , Lee Sang-Do , Jeon Byeong-Hwa
Published: February 2023

Apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1/redox factor-1 (APE1/Ref-1) is a multifunctional protein involved in DNA repair and redox regulation. The redox activity of APE1/Ref-1 is involved in inflammatory responses and regulation of DNA binding of transcription factors related to cell survival pathways. However, the effect of APE1/Ref-1 on adipogenic transcription factor regulation remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the effect of APE1/Ref-1 on the regulation of adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells. During adipocyte differentiation, APE1/Ref-1 expression significantly decreased with the increased expression of adipogenic transcription factors such as CCAAT/enhancer binding protein (C/EBP)-α and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ, and the adipocyte differentiation marker adipocyte protein 2 (aP2) in a time-dependent manner. However, APE1/Ref-1 overexpression inhibited C/EBP-α, PPAR-γ, and aP2 expression, which was upregulated during adipocyte differentiation. In contrast, silencing APE1/Ref-1 or redox inhibition of APE1/Ref-1 using E3330 increased the mRNA and protein levels of C/EBP-α, PPAR-γ, and aP2 during adipocyte differentiation. These results suggest that APE1/Ref-1 inhibits adipocyte differentiation by regulating adipogenic transcription factors, suggesting that APE1/Ref-1 is a potential therapeutic target for regulating adipocyte differentiation.
Optimization of Surface Cleaning and Painting Methods for DIC Measurements on Automotive and Railway Aluminum Materials
Authors: Szalai Szabolcs , Fehér Viktória , Kurhan Dmytro , Németh Attila , Sysyn Mykola , Fischer Szabolcs
Published: February 2023

The preparatory operations of DIC (Digital Image Correlation) tests were investigated in this study, with special emphasis on specimen cleaning and painting operations. As it is well known, DIC tests are non-contact and applied in materials research, the analysis of complex structures, and, nowadays, the construction industry. The use of DIC technologies has seen a dynamic increase in all scientific fields. In our study, aluminum body panels for automotive and railway applications were tested using this technique. There are many articles on proper patterning in the literature but fewer on preparation and priming. These are critical for a successful DIC measurement. This paper looks at different surface cleaners and primers with different grading procedures and will also determine the time window within which the paint should be applied. Finally, the GOM ARAMIS system was applied to measure and characterize the painted surface and visible deformation defects resulting from inadequate painting.
Negative Effects of Phthorimaea absoluta-Resistant Tomato Genotypes on the Zoophytophagous Biocontrol Agent, Orius laevigatus (Fieber) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae)
Authors: Guruswamy Megha , Marimuthu Murugan , Coll Moshe
Published: February 2023

Complex interactions between host plant resistance (HPR) and biological control agents, particularly omnivorous predators, can shape the outcome of an integrated pest management (IPM) program. However, such interactions are seldom explored during plant breeding programs. Therefore, in the present study, we compared the performance of the omnivorous biological control agent Orius laevigatus on six tomato genotypes with different levels of resistance to the tomato leaf miner Phthorimaea absoluta. We found that the O. laevigatus fitness components (i.e., egg deposition, egg hatching rate, and duration of egg, early nymphal, late nymphal stages, and their survival) were inferior on the wild resistant genotypes (LA 716 and LA 1777) in comparison to the resistant domesticated genotype EC 620343 and the susceptible genotypes (EC 705464 and EC 519819). It appears that the adverse effects of tomato genotypes on O. laevigatus are determined mainly by glandular and non-glandular trichome densities on the leaves. Comparison of O. laevigatus response to the tested tomato cultivars to that of P. absoluta revealed significant positive correlations in duration of the egg stages, development time of early and late larval stages, and overall immature mortality in both species. It appears, therefore, that defensive plant traits operate in a similar way on the pest and its predator in the system. Overall, the present study of the tomato-P. absoluta-O. laevigatus system provides experimental evidence for the need to optimize pest management by employing intermediate levels of crop resistance together with biological control agents.
Response Evaluation in Patients with Peritoneal Metastasis Treated with Pressurized IntraPeritoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC)
Authors: Roensholdt Signe , Detlefsen Sönke , Mortensen Michael , Graversen Martin
Published: February 2023

Pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) directed therapy emerged as a treatment of peritoneal metastasis (PM) a decade ago. The response assessment of PIPAC is not uniform. This narrative review describes non-invasive and invasive methods for response evaluation of PIPAC and summarizes their current status. PubMed and clinicaltrials.gov were searched for eligible publications, and data were reported on an intention-to-treat basis. The peritoneal regression grading score (PRGS) showed a response in 18–58% of patients after two PIPACs. Five studies showed a cytological response in ascites or peritoneal lavage fluid in 6–15% of the patients. The proportion of patients with malignant cytology decreased between the first and third PIPAC. A computed tomography showed stable or regressive disease following PIPAC in 15–78% of patients. The peritoneal cancer index was mainly used as a demographic variable, but prospective studies reported a response to treatment in 57–72% of patients. The role of serum biomarkers of cancer or inflammation in the selection of candidates for and responders to PIPAC is not fully evaluated. In conclusion, response evaluation after PIPAC in patients with PM remains difficult, but PRGS seems to be the most promising response evaluation modality.
Construction and Validation of a Nomogram Clinical Prediction Model for Predicting Osteoporosis in an Asymptomatic Elderly Population in Beijing
Authors: Wang Jialin , Kong Chao , Pan Fumin , Lu Shibao
Published: February 2023

Background: Based on the high prevalence and occult-onset of osteoporosis, the development of novel early screening tools was imminent. Therefore, this study attempted to construct a nomogram clinical prediction model for predicting osteoporosis. Methods: Asymptomatic elderly residents in the training (n = 438) and validation groups (n = 146) were recruited. BMD examinations were performed and clinical data were collected for the participants. Logistic regression analyses were performed. A logistic nomogram clinical prediction model and an online dynamic nomogram clinical prediction model were constructed. The nomogram model was validated by means of ROC curves, calibration curves, DCA curves, and clinical impact curves. Results: The nomogram clinical prediction model constructed based on gender, education level, and body weight was well generalized and had moderate predictive value (AUC > 0.7), better calibration, and better clinical benefit. An online dynamic nomogram was constructed. Conclusions: The nomogram clinical prediction model was easy to generalize, and could help family physicians and primary community healthcare institutions to better screen for osteoporosis in the general elderly population and achieve early detection and diagnosis of the disease.
Benefit of Adjuvant Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation to Critical-Sized Peripheral Nerve Defect Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Preclinical Studies
Authors: Aman Martin , Schulte Matthias , Li Yu , Thomas Benjamin , Daeschler Simeon , Mayrhofer-Schmid Maximilian , Kneser Ulrich , Harhaus Leila , Boecker Arne
Published: February 2023

Critically sized nerve defects cause devastating life-long disabilities and require interposition for reconstruction. Additional local application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is considered promising to enhance peripheral nerve regeneration. To better understand the role of MSCs in peripheral nerve reconstruction, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of MSCs on critically sized segment nerve defects in preclinical studies. 5146 articles were screened following PRISMA guidelines using PubMed and Web of Science. A total of 27 preclinical studies (n = 722 rats) were included in the meta-analysis. The mean difference or the standardized mean difference with 95% confidence intervals for motor function, conduction velocity, and histomorphological parameters of nerve regeneration, as well as the degree of muscle atrophy, was compared in rats with critically sized defects and autologous nerve reconstruction treated with or without MSCs. The co-transplantation of MSCs increased the sciatic functional index (3.93, 95% CI 2.62 to 5.24, p < 0.00001) and nerve conduction velocity recovery (1.49, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.84, p = 0.009), decreased the atrophy of targeted muscles (gastrocnemius: 0.63, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.97 p = 0.004; triceps surae: 0.08, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.10 p = 0.71), and promoted the regeneration of injured axons (axon number: 1.10, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.42, p < 0.00001; myelin sheath thickness: 0.15, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.17, p = 0.28). Reconstruction of critically sized peripheral nerve defects is often hindered by impaired postoperative regeneration, especially in defects that require an autologous nerve graft. This meta-analysis indicates that additional application of MSC can enhance postoperative peripheral nerve regeneration in rats. Based on the promising results in vivo experiments, further studies are needed to demonstrate potential clinical benefits.
Recent Developments in Noble Metal-Free Catalysts for a Photocatalytic Water Splitting Process—A Review
Authors: Dahanayake Ama , Gunathilake Chamila A. , Pallegedara Achala , Jayasinghe Piumal
Published: February 2023

Sustainable hydrogen production is an essential prerequisite of a future hydrogen economy. Compared to other processes such as renewable energy-driven water electrolysis and photoelectrochemical water splitting, direct solar to hydrogen conversion through photocatalytic water splitting gives the simplest system for sustainable hydrogen production. Among the many factors to be considered such as the availability of solar radiation, gas collection mechanism and other infrastructure, a highly active noble metal-free photocatalyst is essential to make the water splitting process more energy efficient and economical. This review highlights the mechanism and factors hindering the efficiency of catalysts in photocatalytic water splitting, while discussing recent research efforts towards the development of highly efficient, noble metal-free photocatalysts, especially at the nanoscale, and their catalytic properties for water splitting. Mainly, catalysts consisting of TiO2, Z-schemed catalytic systems and naval computational approaches are discussed here. Moreover, techniques to enhance their catalytic activities and the developments required for the implementation of these photocatalytic systems at a commercial scale are further emphasized in the discussion section.
Carroll’s Three-Stratum (3S) Cognitive Ability Theory at 30 Years: Impact, 3S-CHC Theory Clarification, Structural Replication, and Cognitive–Achievement Psychometric Network Analysis Extension
Authors: McGrew Kevin S.
Published: February 2023

Carroll’s treatise on the structure of human cognitive abilities is a milestone in psychometric intelligence research. Thirty years later, Carroll’s work continues to influence research on intelligence theories and the development and interpretation of intelligence tests. A historical review of the relations between the 3S and CHC theories necessitates the recommendation that the theories of Cattell, Horn, and Carroll be reframed as a family of obliquely correlated CHC theories—not a single CHC theory. Next, a previously unpublished Carroll exploratory factor analysis of 46 cognitive and achievement tests is presented. A complimentary bifactor analysis is presented that reinforces Carroll’s conclusion that his 3S model more accurately represents the structure of human intelligence than two prominent alternative models. Finally, a Carroll-recommended higher-stratum psychometric network analysis (PNA) of CHC cognitive, reading, and math variables is presented. The PNA results demonstrate how PNA can complement factor analysis and serve as a framework for identifying and empirically evaluating cognitive–achievement causal relations and mechanisms (e.g., developmental cascade and investment theories), with an eye toward improved cognitive–achievement intervention research. It is believed that Carroll, given his long-standing interest in school learning, would welcome the integration of theory-driven factor and PNA research.
Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Based Chemical Plume Tracing via Deep Reinforcement Learning Methods
Authors: Wang Lingxiao , Pang Shuo
Published: February 2023

This article presents two new chemical plume tracing (CPT) algorithms for using on autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to locate hydrothermal vents. We aim to design effective CPT navigation algorithms that direct AUVs to trace emitted hydrothermal plumes to the hydrothermal vent. Traditional CPT algorithms can be grouped into two categories, including bio-inspired and engineering-based methods, but they are limited by either search inefficiency in turbulent flow environments or high computational costs. To approach this problem, we design a new CPT algorithm by fusing traditional CPT methods. Specifically, two deep reinforcement learning (RL) algorithms, including double deep Q-network (DDQN) and deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG), are employed to train a customized deep neural network that dynamically combines two traditional CPT algorithms during the search process. Simulation experiments show that both DDQN- and DDPG-based CPT algorithms achieve a high success rate (>90%) in either laminar or turbulent flow environments. Moreover, compared to traditional moth-inspired method, the averaged search time is improved by 67% for the DDQN- and 44% for the DDPG-based CPT algorithms in turbulent flow environments.
Digital Platform for Automatic Qualitative and Quantitative Reading of a Cryptococcal Antigen Point-of-Care Assay Leveraging Smartphones and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Bermejo-Peláez David , Medina Narda , Álamo Elisa , Soto-Debran Juan Carlos , Bonilla Oscar , Luengo-Oroz Miguel , Rodriguez-Tudela Juan Luis , Alastruey-Izquierdo Ana
Published: February 2023

Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection that causes serious illness, particularly in immunocompromised individuals such as people living with HIV. Point of care tests (POCT) can help identify and diagnose patients with several advantages including rapid results and ease of use. The cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) lateral flow assay (LFA) has demonstrated excellent performance in diagnosing cryptococcosis, and it is particularly useful in resource-limited settings where laboratory-based tests may not be readily available. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) for the interpretation of rapid diagnostic tests can improve the accuracy and speed of test results, as well as reduce the cost and workload of healthcare professionals, reducing subjectivity associated with its interpretation. In this work, we analyze a smartphone-based digital system assisted by AI to automatically interpret CrAg LFA as well as to estimate the antigen concentration in the strip. The system showed excellent performance for predicting LFA qualitative interpretation with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.997. On the other hand, its potential to predict antigen concentration based solely on a photograph of the LFA has also been demonstrated, finding a strong correlation between band intensity and antigen concentration, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.953. The system, which is connected to a cloud web platform, allows for case identification, quality control, and real-time monitoring.
Mobile Democracy: Changing Conditions for Young Danes’ Democratic Information and Participation
Authors: Stald Gitte
Published: February 2023

The article focuses on mobile democracy in connection to the conditional foundations for young Danes’ democratic agency in a digital society. It investigates questions of democratic transformation through a conceptual and empirical triangulation of mobile democracy as a framework for analyzing these conditions. Conceptually, the article draws on research on youth and mobile technologies and on theories of mobility, deliberative democracy, and democratic conversation. Empirically, the article draws on 16 in-depth interviews with 16–24-year-old Danes conducted in 2021. This dataset is supported by findings from a representative survey (2017) and publicly available statistics and surveys. The article analyses three intersecting conditions that frame the concept of mobile democracy through an analysis of young citizens’ democratic participation: 1. Mobile technologies—democratic mobility occurs across the availability of technological mobile platforms and online services. The ‘always on’ status is defining for young citizens’ democratic agency. 2. Mobile information and social media—fragmented publics are increasingly missing societal reference points and ideological coherence, and young people are challenged in their attempt to establish coherent meaningfulness from the fluctuating information stream. 3. Mobile engagement and participation—information mobility affects perceptions of what information, citizenship and democracy are, and how this translates into actualizations of democratic participation.
How Does Algorithm Control Affect Platform Workers’ Responses? Algorithm as a Digital Taylorism
Authors: Park Sangcheol , Ryoo Sungyul
Published: February 2023

While many online labor platforms have adopted algorithms to monitor or control workforces as a new form of algorithm management, there is no academic attempt to empirically examine how the algorithmic control of platforms influences platform workers’ behaviors in a platform context. In this study, we consider how algorithm management affects the platform workers’ response from a Digital Taylorism perspective. Digital Taylorism involves management’s use of technology to monitor workers by assigning and tracking work. Therefore, this study examines how algorithm control influences the platform workers’ response by mediating the tension of work compensation in an online labor platform context. Survey data collected from 216 food delivery riders in South Korea are used to test the model using partial least squares analysis. Our results show that algorithm control affects platform workers’ responses by mediating tensions of platform work compensation. Based upon our empirical findings, we can provide a theoretical perspective to relevant researchers who seek to find a theoretical mechanism of algorithm management. Moreover, we can offer practical insights to practitioners who are interested in algorithm management.
Do Patients with Bronchiectasis Have an Increased Risk of Developing Lung Cancer? A Systematic Review
Authors: Castaldo Nadia , Fantin Alberto , Manera Massimiliano , Patruno Vincenzo , Sartori Giulia , Crisafulli Ernesto
Published: February 2023

Background: Initial evidence supports the hypothesis that patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB) have a higher risk of lung cancer. We systematically reviewed the available literature to define the characteristics of lung malignancies in patients with bronchiectasis and the characteristics of patients who develop bronchiectasis-associated lung cancer. Method: This study was performed based on the PRISMA guidelines. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO. Results: The frequency rates of lung cancer in patients with NCFB ranged from 0.93% to 8.0%. The incidence rate was 3.96. Cancer more frequently occurred in the elderly and males. Three studies found an overall higher risk of developing lung cancer in the NCFB population compared to the non-bronchiectasis one, and adenocarcinoma was the most frequently reported histological type. The effect of the co-existence of NCFB and COPD was unclear. Conclusions: NCFB is associated with a higher risk of developing lung cancer than individuals without NCFB. This risk is higher for males, the elderly, and smokers, whereas concomitant COPD’s effect is unclear.
Association between Age, Sex and Cervical Spine Sagittal Plane Motion: A Descriptive and Correlational Study in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Zárate-Tejero Carlos Antonio , Rodríguez-Rubio Pere Ramón , Brandt Lindsay , Krauss John , Hernández-Secorún Mar , Lucha-López Orosia , Hidalgo-García César
Published: February 2023

Active motion examination of patients with cervical spine-related pathologies is necessary to establish baseline function, set physical therapy goals, and choose interventions. This study investigated the sagittal plane active range of motion (ROM) of the global (GCS) and upper cervical spine (UCS) in relation to age and sex in healthy volunteers. One hundred twenty-two volunteers aged 18 to 75 years participated. Volunteers were excluded if they displayed any characteristic that could affect cervical spine ROM. GCS and UCS flexion and extension were each measured three times using a CROM device. Linear regression models (LRMs) were developed to explore the relationships between age and sex and GCS and UCS ROM. The LRM for age showed a decrease in GCS flexion (−2.01°), GCS extension (−3.33°), and UCS extension (−1.87°) for every decade of increasing age. The LRM for sex showed that men displayed less ROM than women in GCS extension (−6.52°) and UCS extension (−2.43°). These results suggest an age-related loss of sagittal plane GCS ROM and UCS extension ROM, and sex-related differences in GCS and UCS extension with women having greater motion than men.
Magnetic Anisotropies and Exchange Bias of Co/CoO Multilayers with Intermediate Ultrathin Pt Layers
Authors: Anyfantis Dimitrios I. , Ballani Camillo , Kanistras Nikos , Barnasas Alexandros , Tsiaoussis Ioannis , Schmidt Georg , Papaioannou Evangelos Th. , Poulopoulos Panagiotis
Published: February 2023

Co/CoO multilayers are fabricated by means of radio-frequency magnetron sputtering. For the formation of each multilayer period, a Co layer is initially produced followed by natural oxidation. Platinum is used not only as buffer and capping layers, but also in the form of intermediate ultrathin layers to enhance perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. Three samples are compared with respect to the magnetic anisotropies and exchange bias between 4–300 K based on superconducting quantum interference device magnetometry measurements. Two of the multilayers are identical Co/CoO/Pt ones; one of them, however, is grown on a Co/Pt “magnetic substrate” to induce perpendicular magnetic anisotropy via exchange coupling through an ultrathin Pt intermediate layer. The third multilayer is of the form Co/CoO/Co/Pt. The use of a “magnetic substrate” results in the observation of loops with large remanence when the field applies perpendicular to the film plane. The CoO/Co interfaces lead to a significant exchange bias at low temperatures after field cooling. The largest exchange bias was observed in the film with double Co/CoO/Co interfaces. Consequently, significant perpendicular anisotropy coexists with large exchange bias, especially at low temperatures. Such samples can be potentially useful for applications related to spintronics and magnetic storage.
Evaluation of Thermo-Viscous Properties of Bitumen Concerning the Chemical Composition
Authors: Remisova Eva , Briliak Dusan , Holy Michal
Published: February 2023

The quality of bitumen is standardized by conventional tests. With the development of new techniques, rotational and oscillatory measuring systems are applied to evaluate bitumen under defined geometric, temperature, frequency, stress, and strain conditions that correspond to loads during asphalt production and service. Several studies have focused on determining the effect of composition on bitumen properties at service temperatures. However, there is a lack of information related to the effect of composition on viscosity at higher temperatures, which influences production processes. The different types of bitumen, samples of 50/70, 35/50, 45/80-75, and 25/55-60 bitumen, had different viscosity values in intervals corresponding to a confidence level of 95%. The viscosity–temperature relationship in temperature range of 120 to 180 °C was observed in values of 3.87 and 3.70 for unmodified bitumen and 3.09 and 3.22 for modified bitumen. The effect of differences in SARA fractions content on the variation in viscosity using regression analysis showed the importance of asphaltenes (direct correlation) and aromates (negative correlation) contents for 50/70 bitumen with a coefficient of linear regression above 0.7. In comparison, the strong effect of saturates and asphaltenes (negative correlation) and resins was identified for 45/80-75 bitumen samples with correlation of 0.5 to 0.7.
Prony Method Estimation as a New Approach for Surge Comparison Testing in Turn Insulation Diagnostics for Three Phase Stator Windings
Authors: Trujillo Guajardo Luis Alonso , Rodríguez Alfaro Luis Humberto , Rodríguez Maldonado Johnny , González Vázquez Mario Alberto , Salinas Salinas Fernando , Shih Meng Yen
Published: February 2023

This article presents an evaluation of Prony method estimation and its implementation considerations for surge comparison test application in turn insulation diagnostics for three-phase stator windings. Surge testing diagnostics compares recorded surge voltage signals of motor winding, and a diagnostic is then defined with a defined value of EAR (error area ratio), which evaluates the difference between signals to determine a turn insulation diagnostic. First, an overview of surge testing is presented. Next, the Prony method and the considerations for its implementation in surge testing are described. Then, a numerical simulation is used to define a simulated turn fault surge voltage signal, where its parameters can be obtained with Prony method estimation and compared with EAR to evaluate its performance. Lastly, recorded surge test signals from two tested motors are used to validate Prony method estimation application for surge test diagnostics, where twelve recorded surge signals for no-fault and fault conditions were analyzed. The summary results of the surge signals parameter estimation are presented in the results and discussion section.
An Investigation on Existence, Uniqueness, and Approximate Solutions for Two-Dimensional Nonlinear Fractional Integro-Differential Equations
Authors: Eftekhari Tahereh , Rashidinia Jalil
Published: February 2023

In this research, we provide sufficient conditions to prove the existence of local and global solutions for the general two-dimensional nonlinear fractional integro-differential equations. Furthermore, we prove that these solutions are unique. In addition, we use operational matrices of two-variable shifted Jacobi polynomials via the collocation method to reduce the equations into a system of equations. Error bounds of the presented method are obtained. Five test problems are solved. The obtained numerical results show the accuracy, efficiency, and applicability of the proposed approach.
Robotic-Arm-Based Force Control in Neurosurgical Practice
Authors: Inziarte-Hidalgo Ibai , Uriarte Irantzu , Fernandez-Gamiz Unai , Sorrosal Gorka , Zulueta Ekaitz
Published: February 2023

This research proposes an optimal robotic arm speed shape in neurological surgery to minimise a cost functional that uses an adaptive scheme to determine the brain tissue force. Until now, there have been no studies or theories on the shape of the robotic arm speed in such a context. The authors have applied a robotic arm with optimal speed control in neurological surgery. The results of this research are as follows: In this article, the authors propose a control scheme that minimises a cost functional which depends on the position error, trajectory speed and brain tissue force. This work allowed us to achieve an optimal speed shape or trajectory to reduce brain retraction damage during surgery. The authors have reached two main conclusions. The first is that optimal control techniques are very well suited for robotic control of neurological surgery. The second conclusion is that several studies on functional cost parameters are needed to achieve the best trajectory speed of the robotic arm. These studies could attempt to optimise the functional cost parameters and provide a mechanical characterisation of brain tissue based on real data.
A Soft Computing Scaled Conjugate Gradient Procedure for the Fractional Order Majnun and Layla Romantic Story
Authors: Sabir Zulqurnain , Guirao Juan L. G.
Published: February 2023

The current study shows the numerical performances of the fractional order mathematical model based on the Majnun and Layla (FO-MML) romantic story. The stochastic computing numerical scheme based on the scaled conjugate gradient neural networks (SCGNNs) is presented to solve the FO-MML. The purpose of providing the solutions of the fractional derivatives is to achieve more accurate and realistic performances of the FO-MML romantic story model. The mathematical model is divided into four dynamics, while the exactness is authenticated through the comparison of obtained and reference Adam results. Moreover, the negligible absolute error enhances the accuracy of the stochastic scheme. Fourteen numbers of neurons have been taken and the information statics are divided into authorization, training, and testing, which are divided into 12%, 77% and 11%, respectively. The reliability, capability, and accuracy of the stochastic SCGNNs is performed through the stochastic procedures using the regression, error histograms, correlation, and state transitions for solving the mathematical model.
Novel Pilot-Scale Photocatalytic Nanofiltration Reactor for Agricultural Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Theodorakopoulos George V. , Arfanis Michalis K. , Sánchez Pérez José Antonio , Agüera Ana , Cadena Aponte Flor Ximena , Markellou Emilia , Romanos George Em. , Falaras Polycarpos
Published: February 2023

Nowadays, the increased agro-industrial activities and the inability of traditional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) to eliminate recalcitrant organic contaminants are raising a potential worldwide risk for the environment. Among the various advanced water treatment technologies that are lately proposed for addressing this challenge, the development and optimization of an innovative hybrid photocatalytic nanofiltration reactor (PNFR) prototype emerges as a prominent solution that achieves synergistic beneficial effects between the photocatalytic degradation activity and size exclusion capacity for micropollutant molecules. Both these features can be contemporarily endued to a multitude of membrane monoliths. The physicochemical and the photoinduced decontamination properties of the titania materials were firstly determined in the powder form, and subsequently, the structural and morphological characterization of the obtained titania-modified membrane monoliths were accomplished. The PNFR unit can operate at high water recovery and low pressures, exhibiting promising removal efficiencies against Acetamiprid (ACT) and Thiabendazole (TBZ) pesticides and achieving the recycling of 15 m3/day of real agro-wastewater. The obtained results are very encouraging, demonstrating the integration of titania photocatalysts in a photocatalytic membrane reactor as a feasible technological solution for the purification of agricultural wastewater.
Optimization of Femtosecond Laser Drilling Process for DD6 Single Crystal Alloy
Authors: Du Tianhan , Liang Xiaoqing , Yu Yanqing , Zhou Liucheng , Cai Zhenbing , Wang Lingfeng , Jia Wentong , Pan Xinlei
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we explore the optimal combination of femtosecond laser drilling parameters for micro-hole processing on DD6 single-crystal high-temperature alloy and analyze the significance of parameter variations on the microstructure characteristics of the holes. The L25(56) orthogonal test was performed by controlling six parameters during femtosecond laser ring processing: average power; overlap rate; defocus rate; feed amount; gas pressure; and end position. The significance of the influence of the factors was analyzed by ANOVA, and the parameters were optimized by genetic algorithm. Scanning electron microscopy was performed on the micropores and the salient features of the pores were analyzed. Finally, we calculated the extreme differences and conducted single-factor effect analysis. We conclude that the defocus rate has the most significant level on the hole drilling by femtosecond laser ring processing for DD6 single crystal high-temperature alloy; and the effect of the end position is smaller than others. The optimized parameters are power 6.73 W; overlap 99%, defocus 0 mm; pressure 0.2 MPa; feed 0.02 mm, and end −0.4 mm.
ESBL- and Carbapenemase-Producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae among Bivalves from Portuguese Shellfish Production Areas
Authors: Freire Samanta , Grilo Teresa , Rodrigues Bruna , Oliveira Rui , Esteves Carla , Marques António , Poirel Laurent , Aires-de-Sousa Marta
Published: February 2023

Bivalves are filter-feeding organisms and biomarkers of bacterial pollution. Our study aimed to analyze the occurrence and characteristics of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)- and carbapenemase-producing Escherichia coli among bivalves. A total of 522 bivalve samples were collected along Portuguese shellfish production areas. Homogenized samples were screened for E. coli contamination on corresponding selective plates, allowing for concomitant growth of Klebsiella pneumoniae. E. coli growth was observed in 39% of the samples. Subsequent selective screening identified nine samples (4.4%) contaminated with ESBL producers, corresponding to E. coli (n = 7) and K. pneumoniae (n = 2), while a single carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae (0.5%) was identified. ESBLs were all CTX-M-types commonly identified in human isolates, i.e., CTX-M-32 (n = 4), CTX-M-15 (n = 4), and CTX-M-14 (n = 1). The carbapenemase producer harbored the blaGES-5 gene located on a ColE plasmid. Clonality was evaluated by multilocus sequence typing, identifying E. coli backgrounds as ST10, ST23, ST540, ST617, ST746, SLV206, and SLV2325, commonly identified among environmental and human strains. The K. pneumoniae isolates belonged to ST834, ST15, and DLV644. The occurrence of ESBL- and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae in bivalves reveals how the marine environment constitutes a reservoir of critical bacterial pathogens, thus potentially representing a risk to human health.
Topical Administration of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (SkinDuoTM) Serum Improves Anti-Acne Properties
Authors: Podrini Christine , Schramm Laetitia , Marianantoni Giulia , Apolinarska Jagienka , McGuckin Colin , Forraz Nico , Milet Clément , Desroches Anne-Laure , Payen Pauline , D’Aguanno Maria , Biazzo Manuele
Published: February 2023

The tailoring of the skin microbiome is challenging and is a research hotspot in the pathogenesis of immune-mediated inflammatory skin diseases such as acne. Commonly encountered preservatives used as functional ingredients have an impact on the skin microbiota and are known to inhibit the survival of skin commensal bacteria. The selected species is Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, formulated with natural enhancers for topical use (SkinDuoTM). Ex vivo human skin models were used as a test system to assess the strain viability which was then validated on healthy volunteers. SkinDuoTM showed increased viability over time for in vitro skin models and a stable viability of over 50% on healthy skin. The strain was tested on human primary sebocytes obtained from sebaceous gland rich areas of facial skin and inoculated with the most abundant bacteria from the skin microbiota. Results on human ex vivo sebaceous gland models with the virulent phylotype of Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis present a significant reduction in viability, lipid production, and anti-inflammatory markers. We have developed an innovative anti-acne serum with L. plantarum that mimics the over-production of lipids, anti-inflammatory properties, and improves acne-disease skin models. Based on these results, we suggest that SkinDuoTM may be introduced as an acne-mitigating agent.
Utilization of Palm Oil Fuel Ash (POFA) as an Admixture for the Synthesis of a Gold Mine Tailings-Based Geopolymer Composite
Authors: Opiso Einstine M. , Tabelin Carlito Baltazar , Maestre Christian V. , Aseniero John Paul J. , Arima Takahiko , Villacorte-Tabelin Mylah
Published: February 2023

The repurposing of gold (Au) mine tailings from artisanal and small-scale mining (ASGM) operations via alkali activation technology is a promising strategy for waste reduction in developing countries. Direct activation of mine tailings, however, is challenging because these materials contain relatively low aluminum (Al)-bearing minerals. In this study, palm oil fuel ash (POFA) was elucidated as a high Al-bearing waste derived-admixture for the synthesis of an ASGM tailings-based geopolymer composite. Semi-quantitative XRD analysis showed that the tailings contained quartz (SiO2) (~58%), pyrite (FeS2) (~20%) and calcite (CaCO3) (~15%) with minor to trace amounts of aluminosilicates (~7%). Substantial amounts of environmentally regulated pollutants such as mercury (Hg) (40 mg/kg), lead (Pb) (8430 mg/kg) and arsenic (As) (300 mg/kg) were also found in the tailings. SEM-EDS, XRD and ATR-FTIR results showed the successful formation of a hybrid geopolymer-CASH matrix, which improved the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of geopolymer composites from ~5 MPa to ~7 MPa. Furthermore, POFA did not significantly affect the thermal resistivity of geopolymer composites based on thermal analysis. Finally, the TCLP results showed that the Pb leaching concentrations from ASGM tailings exceeded environmental standards (~15,000 µg/L), which was suppressed after alkali activation to 300–500 µg/L. This means that POFA addition to ASGM tailings-based geopolymer composite improved not only its applicability as backfill, pavements and bricks but also its ability to immobilize toxic elements.
Analyzing Citramalic Acid Enantiomers in Apples and Commercial Fruit Juice by Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry with Pre-Column Derivatization
Authors: Umino Maho , Onozato Mayu , Sakamoto Tatsuya , Koishi Mikoto , Fukushima Takeshi
Published: February 2023

Optically active citramalic acid (CMA) is naturally present as an acidic taste component in fruits, such as apples. The absolute configuration of CMA in such fruits was investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) following pre-column derivatization with a chiral reagent, benzyl 5-(2-aminoethyl)-3-methyl-4-oxoimidazolidine-1-carboxylate. The developed LC–MS/MS method successfully separated the enantiomers of CMA using an octadecylsilica column with a resolution and separation factor of 2.19 and 1.09, respectively. Consequently, the R-form of CMA was detected in the peel and fruit of three kinds of apple at concentrations in the 1.24–37.8 and 0.138–1.033 mg/wet 100 g ranges, respectively. In addition, R- CMA was present in commercial apple juice, whereas no quantity was detected in commercial blueberry, perilla, or Japanese apricot juice.
Ominoxanthone—The First Xanthone Linearly Fused to a γ-Lactone from Cortinarius ominosus Bidaud Basidiomata. CASE- and DFT-Based Structure Elucidation
Authors: Trac Alice , Issaad Célia , Beniddir Mehdi A. , Bellanger Jean-Michel , Gallard Jean-François , Buevich Alexei V. , Elyashberg Mikhail E. , Le Pogam Pierre
Published: February 2023

The UHPLC–HRMS analysis of Cortinarius ominosus basidiomata extract revealed that this mushroom accumulated elevated yields of an unreported specialized metabolite. The molecular formula of this unknown compound, C17H10O8, indicated that a challenging structure elucidation lay ahead, owing to its critically low H/C atom ratio. The structure of this new isolate, namely ominoxanthone (1), could not be solved from the interpretation of the usual set of 1D/2D NMR data that conveyed too limited information to afford a single, unambiguous structure. To remedy this, a Computer-Assisted Structure Elucidation (CASE) workflow was used to rank the different possible structure candidates consistent with our scarce spectroscopic data. DFT-based chemical shift calculations on a limited set of top-ranked structures further ascertained the determined structure for ominoxanthone. Although the determined scaffold of ominoxanthone is unprecedented as a natural product, a plausible biosynthetic scenario involving a precursor known from cortinariaceous sources and classical biogenetic reactions could be proposed.
Removal of Nutrients from Water Using Biosurfactant Micellar-Enhanced Ultrafiltration
Authors: Binte Rafiq Era Sarjana , Mulligan Catherine N.
Published: February 2023

The removal of NH4+, NO3−, and NH3− from wastewater can be difficult and expensive. Through physical, chemical, and biological processes, metals and nutrients can be extracted from wastewater. Very few scientific investigations have employed surfactants with high biodegradability, low toxicity, and suitability for ion removal from wastewater at different pH and salinity levels. This research employed a highly biodegradable biosurfactant generated from yeast (sophorolipid) through micellar-enhanced ultrafiltration (MEUF). MEUF improves nutrient removal efficiency and reduces costs by using less pressure than reverse osmosis (RO) and nanofiltration (NF). The biosurfactant can be recovered after the removal of nutrient- and ion-containing micelles from the filtration membrane. During the experiment, numerous variables, including temperature, pH, biosurfactant concentration, pollutant ions, etc., were evaluated. The highest amount of PO43− was eliminated at a pH of 6.0, which was reported at 94.9%. Maximum NO3− removal occurred at 45.0 °C (96.9%), while maximum NH4+ removal occurred at 25.0 mg/L (94.5%). Increasing TMP to 200 kPa produced the maximum membrane flow of 226 L/h/m2. The concentrations of the contaminating ion and sophorolipid were insignificant in the permeate, demonstrating the high potential of this approach.
Isolation of the Main Biologically Active Substances and Phytochemical Analysis of Ginkgo biloba Callus Culture Extracts
Authors: Le Violeta , Sukhikh Andrey , Larichev Timothy , Ivanova Svetlana , Prosekov Alexander , Dmitrieva Anastasia
Published: February 2023

The work reveals the results of studying the content of biologically active substances in samples of extracts of Ginkgo biloba callus cultures. Callus cultures grown in vitro on liquid nutrient media were the objects of the study. Considering various factors affecting the yield of the target components during extraction, the volume fraction of the organic modifier in the extracting mixture, the temperature factor, and the exposure time were identified as the main ones. The maximum yield of extractive substances (target biologically active substances with a degree of extraction of at least 50%) from the samples of callus culture extracts was detected at a ratio of extragent of 70% ethanol, a temperature of 50 °C, and exposure time of 6 h. Flavonoids, such as luteolin, quercetin, isoramentin, kaempferol, and amentoflavone, were isolated in the extract samples. As a result of column chromatography, fractions of individual biologically active substances (bilobalide, ginkgolide A, B, and C) were determined. The proposed schemes are focused on preserving the nativity while ensuring maximum purification from associated (ballast) components. Sorbents (Sephadex LH-20, poly-amide, silica gel) were used in successive stages of chromatography with rechromatography. The degree of purity of individually isolated substances was at least 95%.