bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Instance and Data Generation for the Offline Nanosatellite Task Scheduling Problem
Authors: Rigo Cezar Antônio , Morsch Filho Edemar , Seman Laio Oriel , Loures Luís , Leithardt Valderi Reis Quietinho
Published: March 2023

This paper discusses several cases of the Offline Nanosatellite Task Scheduling (ONTS) optimization problem, which seeks to schedule the start and finish timings of payloads on a nanosatellite. Modeled after the FloripaSat-I mission, a nanosatellite, the examples were built expressly to test the performance of various solutions to the ONTS problem. Realistic input data for power harvesting calculations were used to generate the instances, and an instance creation procedure was employed to increase the instances’ difficulty. The instances are made accessible to the public to facilitate a fair comparison of various solutions and to aid in establishing a baseline for the ONTS problem. Additionally, the study discusses the various orbit types and their effects on energy harvesting and mission performance.
An Order Reduction Design Framework for Higher-Order Binary Markov Random Fields
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Yang Hongyu , Liu Yanli
Published: March 2023

The order reduction method is an important approach to optimize higher-order binary Markov random fields (HoMRFs), which are widely used in information theory, machine learning and image analysis. It transforms an HoMRF into an equivalent and easier reduced first-order binary Markov random field (RMRF) by elaborately setting the coefficients and auxiliary variables of RMRF. However, designing order reduction methods is difficult, and no previous study has investigated this design issue. In this paper, we propose an order reduction design framework to study this problem for the first time. Through study, we find that the design difficulty mainly lies in that the coefficients and variables of RMRF must be set simultaneously. Therefore, the proposed framework decomposes the design difficulty into two processes, and each process mainly considers the coefficients or auxiliary variables of RMRF. Some valuable properties are also proven. Based on our framework, a new family of 14 order reduction methods is provided. Experiments, such as synthetic data and image denoising, demonstrate the superiority of our method.
Development of Manganese-Coated Graphite Electrode in a Dual-Chambered Fuel Cell for Selenite Removal and Bio-Electricity Generation from Wastewater Effluent by Bacillus cereus
Authors: Velayudhan Jayanthi , Subramanian Sangeetha
Published: March 2023

A manganese oxide-coated cylindrical graphite cathode with a zinc anode was developed to treat wastewater containing selenite in a dual-chambered microbial fuel cell. COD and selenite removal in the anodic chamber by Bacillus cereus with energy generation were evaluated in batch mode. A manganese dioxide-coated graphite cathode was tested for its surface morphology and chemical composition using scanning electron microscopy and dispersive energy analysis of X-rays. Compared to the non-coated graphite electrode, up to 69% enhancement was observed in the manganese dioxide-coated electrode voltage generation with 150 ppm selenite concentration. The fuel cell achieved a maximum power density of 1.29 W/m2 with 91% selenite reduction and up to 74% COD (initial COD of 120 mg/L) removal for an initial selenite concentration from 100 to 150 ppm. The current study demonstrated the possibility of a modified cathode in enhancing energy generation and the use of microbial fuel cell technology to treat wastewater containing selenite.
Aspects Regarding the Modelling and Optimization of the Transesterification Process through Temperature Control of the Chemical Reactor
Authors: Stanescu Ruxandra-Cristina , Leahu Cristian-Ioan , Soica Adrian
Published: March 2023

Currently, biofuels represent a solution for the European Union in the transportation sector in order to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the dependency of fossil fuels. Biodiesel from vegetable oils is a solution for countries with low GDP per capita to strengthen the internal agriculture, provide jobs, and reduce the use of fossil fuels. In this study, we model and simulate a temperature regulator designed for the biodiesel transesterification process in a discontinuous batch reactor, using methanol and a homogenous basic catalyst. The simulation was based on the kinetical model of the transesterification reaction and the mathematical model of the reactor. We considered molar ratios of alcohol/oil of 6:1 and 9:1, respectively, to shift the reaction equilibrium towards the production of fatty acid methyl esters. In the design of the simulation, the methanol boiling point was considered a restriction, therefore, temperatures below 65 °C were imposed. The results demonstrate that the increase in temperature results in a decrease in the reaction time and a higher yield, especially for the 6:1 molar ratio reaction, and that the optimum temperature for the batch reactor is of 60 °C. Automatic control improves the performance and costs of production.
Experimental Characterization of the Optical Performance of Concentrating Photovoltaic Glazing (CoPVG) Systems
Authors: Ghoraishi Mohammad , Hyde Trevor , Zacharopoulos Aggelos , Mondol Jayanta , Pugsley Adrian
Published: March 2023

An experiment was conducted to test the optical efficiency of the lenses of the Concentrating Photovoltaic Glazing (CoPVG) concept. The CoPVG is a seasonal glazing system consisting of longitudinal prismatic lenses. The lenses concentrate sunlight onto the focus where Photovoltaic (PV) cells are bonded, generating electricity while simultaneously preventing excessive glare indoors during summer. The system transmits sunlight for daylight purposes in winter. The experimental results were compared with an analytical model developed at Ulster University. Although there were discrepancies between the model and the experimental results, the model can still predict the optical performance of the lenses reliably, and can therefore still provide an overview of the concept’s optical performance. The model was then used to create a visual representation of the glazing’s annual optical performance, demonstrating how the glazing responds to changes in the sun’s position in the sky throughout the year. This analysis allows for balancing the need for natural lighting and energy generation, and so enables designers to evaluate annual optical performance of the CoPVG lens quickly and accurately. A case study of a building in Belfast is presented to demonstrate the application of the model. As an example, the results indicate that utilizing the lenses in glazing towards the south leads to a shift in its performance from room lighting to shading on 1st April, and vice versa on 15 September. The analyses also show that utilizing the CoPVG lenses can potentially enhance the electrical output power of the glazing ranging between 5% and 8% and from 46% up to 52% during winter and summer, respectively, compared with traditional Semi-Transparent Photovoltaic (STPV) glazing with the same opaque area percentage.
Use of an Arboretum and DNA Barcoding for the Detection and Identification of Leaf-Mining Insects on Alien Woody Plants
Authors: Kirichenko Natalia I. , Gomboc Stanislav , Piškur Barbara , de Groot Maarten
Published: March 2023

Arboreta serve as effective tools for identifying alien insect pests and novel trophic associations. In this study, we used an arboretum in Slovenia to survey woody plants and identify both alien and native leaf miners. The leaves and twigs of 50 woody plant species and their cultivars were examined for characteristic damage. We used an integrative approach that combined identification based on leaf mines and DNA barcoding of the larvae and pupae found in the mines. In total, 62 leaf-mining species were identified, including eight alien species, of which the heliozelid Coptodisca lucifluella (Clemens, 1860) and the agromyzid Cerodontha unisetiorbita Zlobin, 1992 were documented for Slovenia for the first time. Additionally, three presumably native Gracillariidae moths Phyllocnistis labyrinthella (Bjerkander, 1790), P. ramulicola Langmaid & Corley, 2007 and P. saligna (Zeller, 1839) represented the first record for Slovenia. Furthermore, we documented 23 novel-to-science trophic associations, 20 of which involved native insects and alien woody plants, primarily from Asia. This study highlights the importance of arboreta and botanical gardens for the interception of invasive alien insects and the early detection of trophic shifts of native insects to alien plants, which can aid in predicting their potential spread.
Diseased Fish Detection in the Underwater Environment Using an Improved YOLOV5 Network for Intensive Aquaculture
Authors: Wang Zhen , Liu Haolu , Zhang Guangyue , Yang Xiao , Wen Lingmei , Zhao Wei
Published: March 2023

In intensive aquaculture, the real-time detection and monitoring of common infectious disease is an important basis for scientific fish epidemic prevention strategies that can effectively reduce fish mortality and economic loss. However, low-quality underwater images and low-identification targets present great challenges to diseased fish detection. To overcome these challenges, this paper proposes a diseased fish detection model, using an improved YOLOV5 network for aquaculture (DFYOLO). The specific implementation methods are as follows: (1) the C3 structure is used instead of the CSPNet structure of the YOLOV5 model to facilitate the industrial deployment of the algorithm; (2) all the 3 × 3 convolutional kernels in the backbone network are replaced by a convolutional kernel group consisting of parallel 3 × 3, 1 × 3 and 3 × 1 convolutional kernels; and (3) the convolutional block attention module is added to the YOLOV5 algorithm. Experimental results in a fishing ground showed that the DFYOLO is better than that of the original YOLOV5 network, and the average precision was improved from 94.52% to 99.38% (when the intersection over union is 0.5), for an increase of 4.86%. Therefore, the DFYOLO network can effectively detect diseased fish and is applicable in intensive aquaculture.
Application of Rapeseed Meal Protein Isolate as a Supplement to Texture-Modified Food for the Elderly
Authors: Di Lena Gabriella , Schwarze Ann-Kristin , Lucarini Massimo , Gabrielli Paolo , Aguzzi Altero , Caproni Roberto , Casini Irene , Ferrari Nicoli Stefano , Genuttis Darleen , Ondrejíčková Petra , Hamzaoui Mahmoud , Malterre Camille , Kafková Valentína , Rusu Alexandru
Published: March 2023

Rapeseed meal (RSM), a by-product of rapeseed oil extraction, is currently used for low-value purposes. With a biorefinery approach, rapeseed proteins may be extracted and recovered for high-end uses to fully exploit their nutritional and functional properties. This study reports the application of RSM protein isolate, the main output of a biorefining process aimed at recovering high-value molecules from rapeseed meal, as a supplement to texture-modified (TM) food designed for elderly people with mastication and dysphagia problems. The compositional (macronutrients by Official Methods of Analyses, and mineral and trace element profiles using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry ICP-OES), nutritional and sensory evaluations of TM chicken breast, carrots and bread formulated without and with RSM protein supplementation (5% w/w) are hereby reported. The results show that the texture modification of food combined with rapeseed protein isolate supplementation has a positive impact on the nutritional and sensory profile of food, meeting the special requirements of seniors. TM chicken breast and bread supplemented with RSM protein isolate showed unaltered or even improved sensory properties and a higher nutrient density, with particular regard to proteins (+20–40%) and minerals (+10–16%). Supplemented TM carrots, in spite of the high nutrient density, showed a limited acceptability, due to poor sensory properties that could be overcome with an adjustment to the formulation. This study highlights the potentialities of RSM as a sustainable novel protein source in the food sector. The application of RSM protein proposed here is in line with the major current challenges of food systems such as the responsible management of natural resources, the valorization of agri-food by-products, and healthy nutrition with focus on elderly people.
The Value of Craft Beer Styles: Evidence from the Italian Market
Authors: Bimbo Francesco , De Meo Emilio , Baiano Antonietta , Carlucci Domenico
Published: March 2023

This study aims to estimate the market value, or implicit prices, associated with the main craft beer attributes (e.g., beer style, organic, gluten-free, and package-related features) and support producers in detecting the more profitable marketing strategies. For this purpose, we conducted an empirical analysis employing sales data of craft beers from the Italian online market, and we estimated a hedonic price model via ordinary least squares. Results show that the type of package and cup only has moderate effects on price. Furthermore, a moderate premium price is found for gluten-free craft beers, while craft beers with organic labels and Italian origin do not benefit from the higher price. Instead, the beer style adopted strongly affected the product price: the highest premium prices were detected for Barleywine (+49.9%) and Italian Grape Ale (+39.6%) beer styles. Furthermore, relevant premium prices, higher than +25%, were estimated for other beer styles such as Sour, Fruit Beer, and Stout. Results suggest that artisanal breweries can effectively differentiate their product according to the beer style. To the best of our knowledge, the current study offers the first empirical evidence on how beer styles as well as other product characteristics affect the market price of craft beer by using secondary data.
Screening of Acrylamide Content in Commercial Plant-Based Protein Ingredients from Different Technologies
Authors: Squeo Giacomo , De Angelis Davide , Caputi Antonio Francesco , Pasqualone Antonella , Summo Carmine , Caponio Francesco
Published: March 2023

The demand of plant-based protein ingredients (PBPIs) in the food sector has strongly increased over recent years. These ingredients are produced under a wide range of technological processes that impact their final characteristics. This work aimed to evaluate acrylamide contamination in a range of PBPIs produced with different technologies and classified into four categories i.e., flours, dry-fractionated proteins, wet-extracted proteins, and texturized vegetable proteins. The results highlighted a remarkable variability in the acrylamide contamination in all the classes under investigation, with the flours showing the lowest mean acrylamide content (280 µg kg−1) compared with the wet-extracted proteins that showed the highest (451 µg kg−1). These differences could likely be associated with the different processing technologies used to obtain the protein ingredients. These findings suggest the need to monitor acrylamide formation during the processing of PBPIs and, consequently, to study mitigation strategies when necessary.
Optimal FOPI Error Voltage Control Dead-Time Compensation for PMSM Servo System
Authors: Li Fumin , Luo Ying , Luo Xin , Chen Pengchong , Chen Yangquan
Published: March 2023

This paper proposed a dead-time compensation method with fractional-order proportional integral (FOPI) error voltage control. The disturbance voltages caused by the power devices’ dead time and non-ideal switching characteristics are compensated for with the FOPI controller and fed to the reference voltage. In this paper, the actual error voltage is calculated based on the model and actual voltage of the permanent magnet synchronous motor. Considering the parameter error of the permanent magnet synchronous motor and the voltage error caused by the dead-time effect, a FOPI controller is used to calculate the compensation voltage. An improved particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is utilized to design the parameters of the FOPI controller in order to eliminate the dead-time effect, and the optimal fitness function is designed. Compared with other optimization algorithms, the improved PSO algorithm can achieve faster convergence speed in the error voltage controller parameter design. The proposed dead-time compensation method can improve the performance of the current response and eliminate the dead-time effect. This method also eliminates all harmonic disturbances and has a good suppression effect on high-frequency harmonics. The simulation and experimental results show that the dead-time compensation method using optimal FOPI error voltage control makes the current ripple smaller and the response speed faster than that of the traditional optimal integer-order PI control, thus demonstrating the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed method.
The Effect of Deep and Slow Breathing on Retention and Cognitive Function in the Elderly Population
Authors: Lee Su-Ha , Park Dae-Sung , Song Chang-Ho
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to apply deep and slow breathing to the elderly, who can be classified as potential dementia patients, to confirm changes in the cognitive functions of learning and memory. Forty-five elderly subjects were randomly and evenly divided into a rest group (RG), a before group (BG), and an after group (AG). Measurements of their cognitive abilities were obtained before testing (PT), 30 min after learning (STT), and 24 h after learning (LTT). After PT measurements were obtained from all three groups, the RG and AG conducted new cognitive skills learning, while the BG performed deep and slow breathing (DSB) for 30 min before learning new cognitive skills. After all the three groups underwent 30 min of learning, the STT was performed. Subsequently, the AG performed DSB for 30 min. Finally, 24 h after learning, the LTT was conducted for all three groups. Changes were compared and analyzed by measuring the retention of new cognitive skills and attention, working memory, and spatial perception of cognitive functions. A two-way repeated measure analysis of variance measured the effect of the application of DSB in the three groups. These results demonstrated a significant interaction of time and time*group in all measurements of retention and attention, working memory, and spatial perception. This study confirms the benefit of DSB as part of a dementia prevention training protocol.
Shiver Me Tinders and Ring a Ding for a Fling—Sex Tech Use during COVID-19: Findings from a UK Study
Authors: Marston Hannah R. , Morgan Deborah J. , Earle Sarah , Hadley Robin A.
Published: March 2023

Existing research surrounding dating apps has primarily focused on younger people with few studies exploring usage of such apps by middle aged and older adults. The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic challenged social behaviours and forced people to adapt intimacy and wider relationship conduct. The objective of this study was to examine how older adults utilized dating apps during the lockdowns of the UK pandemic (December 2020–May 2021). Findings presented here focus on qualitative data collected from an online survey and eight online, one-to-one interviews with adults aged 40–54 years. The online survey targeted adults across the UK while interviewees were located across England. Employing interpretative phenomenological analysis, findings identified three key themes: 1. Morality, health, and law breaking and COVID-19; 2. Self-surveillance and moral signalling; 3. Loneliness and social isolation. Qualitative findings show engaging with apps was a proxy which alleviated feelings of loneliness and social isolation. Some users used the premise of their social bubble as a way of meeting other people. Using the same premise, others justified breaking the law to engage in physical and sexual intimacy to mitigate their loneliness. The work presented here contributes to the fields of social sciences, gerontology, and human computer interaction. The inter- and multi-disciplinary impact of this study intersects across those fields and offers a cross-sectional insight into behaviours and engagement with technology during one of the most extraordinary global events.
Exercise Biomechanics for Health: Evaluating Lifelong Activities for Well-Being
Authors: Forte Pedro , Teixeira José E.
Published: March 2023

Biomechanics is a multidisciplinary study of the mechanical laws and principles that govern human movement and the functioning of biological systems [...]
Obesity and Cardiovascular Risk: Systematic Intervention Is the Key for Prevention
Authors: Perone Francesco , Pingitore Annachiara , Conte Edoardo , Halasz Geza , Ambrosetti Marco , Peruzzi Mariangela , Cavarretta Elena
Published: March 2023

Obesity is a serious public health issue and associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease events and mortality. The risk of cardiovascular complications is directly related to excess body fat mass and ectopic fat deposition, but also other obesity-related complications such as pre-type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnoea, and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases. Body mass index and waist circumference are used to classify a patient as overweight or obese and to stratify cardiovascular risk. Physical activity and diet, despite being key points in preventing adverse events and reducing cardiovascular risk, are not always successful strategies. Pharmacological treatments for weight reduction are promising strategies, but are restricted by possible safety issues and cost. Nonetheless, these treatments are associated with improvements in cardiovascular risk factors, and studies are ongoing to better evaluate cardiovascular outcomes. Bariatric surgery is effective in reducing the incidence of death and cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Cardiac rehabilitation programs in obese patients improve cardiovascular disease risk factors, quality of life, and exercise capacity. The aim of this review was to critically analyze the current role and future aspects of lifestyle changes, medical and surgical treatments, and cardiac rehabilitation in obese patients, to reduce cardiovascular disease risk and mortality, and to highlight the need for a multidisciplinary approach to improving cardiovascular outcomes.
Molecular Signals and Genetic Regulations of Neurological Disorders
Authors: Villani Emanuele Rocco , Marzetti Emanuele
Published: March 2023

Neurological disorders are a large and heterogeneous field of research that can be tackled through a variety of approaches, ranging from epidemiology to molecular biology, through clinical, biostatistical, and laboratory experiments [...]
New Data on Anti-Inflammatory and Wound Healing Potential of Transgenic Senna obtusifolia Hairy Roots: In Vitro Studies
Authors: Kowalczyk Tomasz , Sitarek Przemysław , Śliwiński Tomasz , Hatziantoniou Sophia , Soulintzi Nikolitsa , Pawliczak Rafal , Wieczfinska Joanna
Published: March 2023

Asthma is an inflammatory disease whose etiology remains unclear. Its characteristics encompass a wide range of clinical symptoms, inflammatory processes, and reactions to standard therapies. Plants produce a range of constitutive products and secondary metabolites that may have therapeutic abilities. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of Senna obtusifolia transgenic hairy root extracts on virus-induced airway remodeling conditions. Three cell lines were incubated with extracts from transformed (SOA4) and transgenic (SOPSS2, with overexpression of the gene encoding squalene synthase 1) hairy roots of Senna obtusifolia in cell lines undergoing human rhinovirus-16 (HRV-16) infection. The effects of the extracts on the inflammatory process were determined based on the expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-8, TNF-α, IL-1α and IFN-γ) and total thiol content. The transgenic Senna obtusifolia root extract reduced virus-induced expression of TNF, IL-8 and IL-1 in WI-38 and NHBE cells. The SOPSS2 extract reduced IL-1 expression only in lung epithelial cells. Both tested extracts significantly increased the concentration of thiol groups in epithelial lung cells. In addition, the SOPPS2 hairy root extract yielded a positive result in the scratch test. SOA4 and SOPPS2 Senna obtusifolia hairy root extracts demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects or wound healing activity. The SOPSS2 extract had stronger biological properties, which may result from a higher content of bioactive secondary metabolites.
Effect of ZEB1 Associated with microRNAs on Tumor Stem Cells in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Ferreira Letícia Antunes Muniz , Bezerra Maria Antonia dos Santos , Kawasaki-Oyama Rosa Sayoko , Fernandes Glaucia Maria de Mendonça , Castanhole-Nunes Márcia Maria Urbanin , Serafim Junior Vilson , Castilho Rogério Moraes , Pavarino Érika Cristina , Maniglia José Victor , Goloni-Bertollo Eny Maria
Published: March 2023

Cancer biologists have focused on studying cancer stem cells (CSCs) because of their ability to self-renew and recapitulate tumor heterogeneity, which increases their resistance to chemotherapy and is associated with cancer relapse. Here, we used two approaches to isolate CSCs: the first involved the metabolic enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase ALDH, and the second involved the three cell surface markers CD44, CD117, and CD133. ALDH cells showed a higher zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) microRNA (miRNA) expression than CD44/CD117/133 triple-positive cells, which overexpressed miRNA 200c-3p: a well-known microRNA ZEB1 inhibitor. We found that ZEB1 inhibition was driven by miR-101-3p, miR-139-5p, miR-144-3p, miR-199b-5p, and miR-200c-3p and that the FaDu Cell Line inhibition occurred at the mRNA level, whereas HN13 did not affect mRNA expression but decreased protein levels. Furthermore, we demonstrated the ability of the ZEB1 inhibitor miRNAs to modulate CSC-related genes, such as TrkB, ALDH, NANOG, and HIF1A, using transfection technology. We showed that ALDH was upregulated upon ZEB1-suppressed miRNA transfection (Mann–Whitney ** p101 = 0.009, t-test ** p139 = 0.009, t-test ** p144 = 0.002, and t-test *** p199 = 0.0006). Overall, our study enabled an improved understanding of the role of ZEB1-suppressed miRNAs in CSC biology.
Immune Regulatory Functions of Macrophages and Microglia in Central Nervous System Diseases
Authors: Poppell Michael , Hammel Grace , Ren Yi
Published: March 2023

Macrophages can be characterized as a very multifunctional cell type with a spectrum of phenotypes and functions being observed spatially and temporally in various disease states. Ample studies have now demonstrated a possible causal link between macrophage activation and the development of autoimmune disorders. How these cells may be contributing to the adaptive immune response and potentially perpetuating the progression of neurodegenerative diseases and neural injuries is not fully understood. Within this review, we hope to illustrate the role that macrophages and microglia play as initiators of adaptive immune response in various CNS diseases by offering evidence of: (1) the types of immune responses and the processes of antigen presentation in each disease, (2) receptors involved in macrophage/microglial phagocytosis of disease-related cell debris or molecules, and, finally, (3) the implications of macrophages/microglia on the pathogenesis of the diseases.
A Tridentate Cu(II) Complex with a 2-(4′-Aminophenyl)Benzothiazole Derivative: Crystal Structure and Biological Evaluation for Anticancer Activity
Authors: Mavroidi Barbara , Sagnou Marina , Halevas Eleftherios , Mitrikas George , Kapiris Fotis , Bouziotis Penelope , Hatzidimitriou Antonios G. , Pelecanou Maria , Methenitis Constantinos
Published: March 2023

Herein, the synthesis, structural characterization and in vitro biological evaluation of a novel Cu(II) complex with the 2-(4-aminophenyl)benzothiazole pharmacophore conjugated with the (2-pyridinyl)methylamino chelating moiety is reported for the first time. A full characterization of the Cu(II) complex was conducted by X-ray crystallography, EPR, IR, elemental and MS analysis, and its binding to CT-DNA was investigated by UV-vis spectroscopy, ethidium bromide competition studies, circular dichroism, viscometry and thermal denaturation. The data clearly indicate that the Cu(II) complex interacts with CT-DNA via intercalation, registering a difference compared to previously reported Pt(II) and Pd(II) analogues. To evaluate the anticancer activity of the complex, a series of in vitro experiments against breast, glioblastoma, prostate and lung cancer cell lines along with healthy fibroblasts were implemented. Cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, intracellular ROS production, cell cycle and apoptosis analysis revealed an increased anticancer activity towards breast cancer cells that is accompanied by an induction in intracellular ROS levels and a significant G2/M arrest followed by apoptosis.
Multiferroics Made via Chemical Co-Precipitation That Is Synthesized and Characterized as Bi(1−x)CdxFeO3
Authors: Mehmood Syed Zain , Arshad Mubashar , Alharbi Fahad M. , Eldin Sayed M. , Galal Ahmed M.
Published: March 2023

Cd-doped BiFeO3 powders, with varying doping concentrations of Cd (Bi(1−x)CdxFeO3, where x = 0–0.3), were prepared through a facile chemical co-precipitation method and calcinated at 550 °C in the air. The BiFeO3 has a rhombohedral crystal structure, which changes to an orthorhombic crystal structure with an increase in Cd doping. The presence of dopant has also altered the bandgap of material suppressing it from 2.95 eV to 2.51 eV, improving the visible light absorption. Vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) confirmed stronger ferromagnetic character for Bi0.7Cd0.3FeO3 with a coercivity of 250 Oe, and remnant magnetization was 0.15 emu/g, which is because of the misalignment of the two sublattices of perovskite structure after doping resulting in the imbalanced magnetic moment giving rise to net nonzero magnetic behavior. The particle size reduction is observed with an increase in the doping concentration of Cd.
Macrocyclic Compounds: Metal Oxide Particles Nanocomposite Thin Films Deposited by MAPLE
Authors: Socol Marcela , Preda Nicoleta , Breazu Carmen , Costas Andreea , Rasoga Oana , Petre Gabriela , Popescu-Pelin Gianina , Iftimie Sorina , Stochioiu Andrei , Socol Gabriel , Stanculescu Anca
Published: March 2023

Nanocomposite films based on macrocyclic compounds (zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) and 5,10,15,20-tetra(4-pyridyl) 21H,23H-porphyrin (TPyP)) and metal oxide nanoparticles (ZnO or CuO) were deposited by matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE). 1,4-dioxane was used as a solvent in the preparation of MAPLE targets that favor the deposition of films with a low roughness, which is a key feature for their integration in structures for optoelectronic applications. The influence of the addition of ZnO nanoparticles (~20 nm in size) or CuO nanoparticles (~5 nm in size) in the ZnPc:TPyP mixture and the impact of the added metal oxide amount on the properties of the obtained composite films were evaluated in comparison to a reference layer based only on an organic blend. Thus, in the case of nanocomposite films, the vibrational fingerprints of both organic compounds were identified in the infrared spectra, their specific strong absorption bands were observed in the UV–Vis spectra, and a quenching of the TPyP emission band was visible in the photoluminescence spectra. The morphological analysis evidenced agglomerated particles on the composite film surface, but their presence has no significant impact on the roughness of the MAPLE deposited layers. The current density–voltage (J-V) characteristics of the structures based on the nanocomposite films deposited by MAPLE revealed the critical role played by the layer composition and component ratio, an improvement in the electrical parameters values being achieved only for the films with a certain type and optimum amount of metal oxide nanoparticles.
Investigation on White Layer Formation in Dry High-Speed Milling of Nickel-Based Superalloy GH4169
Authors: Zhang Jiamao , Du Jin , Li Binxun , Su Guosheng
Published: March 2023

To investigate the formation mechanism of the white layer on the machined surface during high-speed milling of nickel-based superalloy GH4169, several cutting parameters were selected for milling experiments. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) were employed to characterize element distribution, phase transformation, and microstructure changes in the machined surface of the superalloy and then reveal the formation mechanism of the white layer on the machined surface. The results show that the white layer appears on the machined surface of GH4169, which is dense and has no obvious structural features. The total amount of elements in the white layer remains unchanged, but the distribution of elements such as C, N, O, Fe, and Ni changes due to phase change. The formation mechanism of the white layer is due to the dynamic recovery and dynamic recrystallization caused by the heat–force coupling effect, which leads to the grain refinement of the material and thus forms the white layer. This investigation can provide theoretical support to improve the service life of the parts in actual machining.
Potato Blight Detection Using Fine-Tuned CNN Architecture
Authors: Al-Adhaileh Mosleh Hmoud , Verma Amit , Aldhyani Theyazn H. H. , Koundal Deepika
Published: March 2023

Potato is one of the major cultivated crops and provides occupations and livelihoods for numerous people across the globe. It also contributes to the economic growth of developing and underdeveloped countries. However, potato blight is one of the major destroyers of potato crops worldwide. With the introduction of neural networks to agriculture, many researchers have contributed to the early detection of potato blight using various machine and deep learning algorithms. However, accuracy and computation time remain serious issues. Therefore, considering these challenges, we customised a convolutional neural network (CNN) to improve accuracy with fewer trainable parameters, less computation time, and reduced information loss. We compared the performance of the proposed model with various machine and deep learning algorithms used for potato blight classification. The proposed model outperformed the others with an overall accuracy of 99% using 839,203 trainable parameters in 183 s of training time.
Dynamics and Global Bifurcations in Two Symmetrically Coupled Non-Invertible Maps
Authors: Soula Yamina , Jahanshahi Hadi , Al-Barakati Abdullah A. , Moroz Irene
Published: March 2023

The theory of critical curves determines the main characteristics of a discrete dynamical system in two dimensions. One important property that has garnered recent attention is the problem of chaos synchronization, along with the location of its chaotic attractors, basin boundaries, and bifurcation mechanisms. Varying the parameters of the maps reveals the instrumental role that these curves play, where the bifurcation leads to complex topological structures of the basins occurs by contact with the basin boundaries, resulting in the appearance or disappearance of some components of the basin. This study focuses on the properties of a discrete dynamical system consisting of two symmetrically coupled non-invertible maps, specifically those with an invariant one-dimensional submanifold (or one-dimensional maps). These maps exhibit a complex structure of basins with the coexistence of symmetric chaotic attractors, riddled basins, blow-out, on-off intermittency, and, most significantly, the appearance of chaotic synchronization with a correlation between all the characteristics. The numerical method of critical curves can be used to demonstrate a wide range of dynamic scenarios and explain the bifurcations that lead to their occurrence. These curves play a crucial role in a system of two symmetrically coupled maps, and their significance will be discussed.
Identifying a Space-Dependent Source Term and the Initial Value in a Time Fractional Diffusion-Wave Equation
Authors: Lv Xianli , Feng Xiufang
Published: March 2023

This paper is focused on the inverse problem of identifying the space-dependent source function and initial value of the time fractional nonhomogeneous diffusion-wave equation from noisy final time measured data in a multi-dimensional case. A mollification regularization method based on a bilateral exponential kernel is presented to solve the ill-posedness of the problem for the first time. Error estimates are obtained with an a priori strategy and an a posteriori choice rule to find the regularization parameter. Numerical experiments of interest show that our proposed method is effective and robust with respect to the perturbation noise in the data.
Application of Finite Element Method to Create a Digital Elevation Model
Authors: Conde López Eduardo , Salete Casino Eduardo , Flores Escribano Jesús , Vargas Ureña Antonio
Published: March 2023

The generation of a topographical surface or digital elevation model for a given set of points in space is a known problem in civil engineering and topography. In this article, we propose a simple and efficient way to obtain the terrain surface by using a structural shell finite element model, giving advice on how to implement it. The proposed methodology does not need a large number of points to define the terrain, so it is especially suitable to be used with data provided by manual topographical tools. Several examples are developed to demonstrate the easiness and accuracy of the methodology. The digital terrain model of a real landscape is modeled by using different numbers of points (from 49 to 400) using a regular mesh or a randomly generated cloud of points. The results are compared, showing how the proposed methodology creates a sufficiently accurate model, even with a low number of points (compared with the thousands of points handled in a LiDAR representation). A real case application is also shown. As an appendix, the sample code to generate the examples is provided.
Viral Infection Spreading in Cell Culture with Intracellular Regulation
Authors: Bessonov Nikolay , Bocharov Gennady , Mozokhina Anastasiia , Volpert Vitaly
Published: March 2023

Virus plaque assays are conventionally used for the assessment of viral infections, including their virulence, and vaccine efficacy. These experiments can be modeled with reaction–diffusion equations, allowing the estimation of the speed of infection spread (related to virus virulence) and viral load (related to virus infectivity). In this work, we develop a multiscale model of infection progression that combines macroscopic characterization of virus plaque growth in cell culture with a reference model of intracellular virus replication. We determine the infection spreading speed and viral load in a model for the extracellular dynamics and the kinetics of the abundance of intracellular viral genomes and proteins. In particular, the spatial infection spreading speed increases if the rate of virus entry into the target cell increases, while the viral load can either increase or decrease depending on other model parameters. The reduction in the model under a quasi-steady state assumption for some intracellular reactions allows us to derive a family of reduced models and to compare the reference model with the previous model for the concentration of uninfected cells, infected cells, and total virus concentration. Overall, the combination of different scales in reaction–diffusion models opens up new perspectives on virus plaque growth models and their applications.
Marine-Derived Compounds Applied in Cardiovascular Diseases: Submerged Medicinal Industry
Authors: Akram Wasim , Rihan Mohd , Ahmed Sakeel , Arora Swamita , Ahmad Sameer , Vashishth Rahul
Published: March 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are among the most impactful illnesses globally. Currently, the available therapeutic option has several side effects, including hypotension, bradycardia, arrhythmia, and alteration in different ion concentrations. Recently, bioactive compounds from natural sources, including plants, microorganisms, and marine creatures, have gained a lot of interest. Marine sources serve as reservoirs for new bioactive metabolites with various pharmacological activities. The marine-derived compound such as omega-3 acid ethyl esters, xyloketal B, asperlin, and saringosterol showed promising results in several CVDs. The present review focuses on marine-derived compounds’ cardioprotective potential for hypertension, ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, and atherosclerosis. In addition to therapeutic alternatives, the current use of marine-derived components, the future trajectory, and restrictions are also reviewed.
Association between Late-Eating Pattern and Higher Consumption of Ultra-Processed Food among Italian Adults: Findings from the INHES Study
Authors: Bonaccio Marialaura , Ruggiero Emilia , Di Castelnuovo Augusto , Martínez Claudia Francisca , Esposito Simona , Costanzo Simona , Cerletti Chiara , Donati Maria Benedetta , de Gaetano Giovanni , Iacoviello Licia
Published: March 2023

Late eating is reportedly associated with adverse metabolic health, possibly through poor diet quality. We tested the hypothesis that meal timing could also be linked to food processing, an independent predictor of health outcomes. We analysed data on 8688 Italians (aged > 19years) from the Italian Nutrition & HEalth Survey (INHES) established in 2010–2013 throughout Italy. Dietary data were collected through a single 24 h dietary recall, and the NOVA classification was used to categorize foods according to increasing levels of processing: (1) minimally processed foods (e.g., fruits); (2) culinary ingredients (e.g., butter); (3) processed foods (e.g., canned fish); (4) ultra-processed foods (UPFs; e.g., carbonated drinks, processed meat). We then calculated the proportion (%) of each NOVA group on the total weight of food eaten (g/d) by creating a weight ratio. Subjects were classified as early or late eaters based on the population’s median timing for breakfast, lunch and dinner. In multivariable-adjusted regression models, late eaters reported a lower intake of minimally processed food (β = −1.23; 95% CI −1.75 to −0.71), a higher intake of UPF (β = 0.93; 0.60 to 1.25) and reduced adherence to a Mediterranean Diet (β = −0.07; −0.12 to −0.03) as compared to early eaters. Future studies are warranted to examine whether increased UPF consumption may underpin the associations of late eating with adverse metabolic health reported in prior cohorts.
Comment on Minich et al. Is Melatonin the “Next Vitamin D”?: A Review of Emerging Science, Clinical Uses, Safety, and Dietary Supplements. Nutrients 2022, 14, 3934
Authors: Pluta Ryszard
Published: March 2023

I read an article by Minich D.M. et al. [...]
Low-Carbohydrate Diet Modulates Glucose–Lipid Utilization in Skeletal Muscle of Diabetic Mice
Authors: Li Yan , Yang Zi , Wang Yu , Fan Mingcong , Nie Chenzhipeng , Xue Lamei , Wang Li , Qian Haifeng
Published: March 2023

Type 2 diabetes is associated with many complications, including skeletal muscle atrophy. Ketogenic diets and low-carbohydrate diets (LCD) have recently been introduced as dietary interventions in patients with diabetes, but their effects on glucose and lipid metabolism in skeletal muscle have not been studied. In the current study, we compared the effects of LCD and ketogenic diet on glucose and lipid metabolism in skeletal muscle of diabetic mice. C57BL/6J mice with type 2 diabetes, constructed by a high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin, were fed a standard diet, a high-fat diet, an LCD, or a ketogenic diet for 14 weeks, respectively. Here, we found that the LCD, rather than the ketogenic diet, retained skeletal muscle weight and suppressed the expression of atrophy-related genes in diabetic mice. In addition, the LCD had more glycolytic/type IIb myofiber content and inhibited forkhead box O1 and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 expression, leading to improved glucose utilization. However, the ketogenic diet maintained more oxidative/type I myofibers. Moreover, compared with the ketogenic diet, the LCD decreased intramuscular triglycerides content and muscle lipolysis, suggesting improvement in lipid metabolism. Taken together, these data suggested that the LCD improved glucose utilization, and inhibited lipolysis and atrophy in skeletal muscle of diabetic mice, while the ketogenic diet showed metabolic disorders in skeletal muscle.
Phenylpyrazolone-1,2,3-triazole Hybrids as Potent Antiviral Agents with Promising SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Inhibition Potential
Authors: Musa Arafa , Abulkhair Hamada S. , Aljuhani Ateyatallah , Rezki Nadjet , Abdelgawad Mohamed A. , Shalaby Khaled , El-Ghorab Ahmed H. , Aouad Mohamed R.
Published: March 2023

COVID-19 infection is now considered one of the leading causes of human death. As an attempt towards the discovery of novel medications for the COVID-19 pandemic, nineteen novel compounds containing 1,2,3-triazole side chains linked to phenylpyrazolone scaffold and terminal lipophilic aryl parts with prominent substituent functionalities were designed and synthesized via a click reaction based on our previous work. The novel compounds were assessed using an in vitro effect on the growth of SARS-CoV-2 virus-infested Vero cells with different compound concentrations: 1 and 10 μM. The data revealed that most of these derivatives showed potent cellular anti-COVID-19 activity and inhibited viral replication by more than 50% with no or weak cytotoxic effect on harboring cells. In addition, in vitro assay employing the SARS-CoV-2-Main protease inhibition assay was done to test the inhibitors’ ability to block the common primary protease of the SARS-CoV-2 virus as a mode of action. The obtained results show that the one non-linker analog 6h and two amide-based linkers 6i and 6q were the most active compounds with IC50 values of 5.08, 3.16, and 7.55 μM, respectively, against the viral protease in comparison to data of the selective antiviral agent GC-376. Molecular modeling studies were done for compound placement within the binding pocket of protease which reveal conserved residues hydrogen bonding and non-hydrogen interactions of 6i analog fragments: triazole scaffold, aryl part, and linker. Moreover, the stability of compounds and their interactions with the target pocket were also studied and analyzed by molecular dynamic simulations. The physicochemical and toxicity profiles were predicted, and the results show that compounds behave as an antiviral activity with low or no cellular or organ toxicity. All research results point to the potential usage of new chemotype potent derivatives as promising leads to be explored in vivo that might open the door to rational drug development of SARS-CoV-2 Main protease potent medicines.
Mach–Zehnder Modulator Output in Time and Frequency Domain—Calculation and Experimental Confirmation
Authors: Vervoort Sander , Saalberg Yannick , Wolff Marcus
Published: March 2023

The Mach–Zehnder intensity Modulator (MZM), named after Ludwig Mach and Ludwig Zehnder, is based on the corresponding interferometer. It splits light into two counter-rotating partial beams, which are later recombined with a controlled phase difference. The output of the MZM depends on the phase difference of the interferometer paths. This phase difference is usually adjusted by an electrical voltage applied to a Phase Shifter (PS) placed in one of the interferometer arms. For MZM applications in which the wavelength is changing, the applied voltage must be adjusted accordingly. We derived the equations describing the MZM output in the frequency domain for the case of a triangular PS voltage (necessary for a sinusoidal output) and compared the analytical results with measurements. Our setup uses an Optical Parametric Oscillator (OPO) with a tunable wavelength from 3.2–3.5 μm as the light source and a Lithium Tantalate (LT)-PS for the MZM’s phase modulation. The novel insights enable new control methods for MZMs particularly suited for spectroscopic applications where the wavelength is scanned or otherwise altered.