bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Strategies for Lithium-Ion Conductivity Improvement in Li7La3Zr2O12 Solid Electrolytes
Authors: Il’ina Evgeniya
Published: August 2023

The development of solid electrolytes with high conductivity is one of the key factors in the creation of new power-generation sources. Lithium-ion solid electrolytes based on Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZ) with a garnet structure are in great demand for all-solid-state battery production. Li7La3Zr2O12 has two structural modifications: tetragonal (I41/acd) and cubic (Ia3d). A doping strategy is proposed for the stabilization of highly conductive cubic Li7La3Zr2O12. The structure features, density, and microstructure of the ceramic membrane are caused by the doping strategy and synthesis method of the solid electrolyte. The influence of different dopants on the stabilization of the cubic phase and conductivity improvement of solid electrolytes based on Li7La3Zr2O12 is discussed in the presented review. For mono-doping, the highest values of lithium-ion conductivity (~10−3 S/cm at room temperature) are achieved for solid electrolytes with the partial substitution of Li+ by Ga3+, and Zr4+ by Te6+. Moreover, the positive effect of double elements doping on the Zr site in Li7La3Zr2O12 is established. There is an increase in the popularity of dual- and multi-doping on several Li7La3Zr2O12 sublattices. Such a strategy leads not only to lithium-ion conductivity improvement but also to the reduction of annealing temperature and the amount of some high-cost dopant. Al and Ga proved to be effective co-doping elements for the simultaneous substitution in Li/Zr and Li/La sublattices of Li7La3Zr2O12 for improving the lithium-ion conductivity of solid electrolytes.
Allometry of Defense: Predator Shift Alters Ontogenetic Growth Patterns in an Antipredator Trait
Authors: Jiang Bin , Yao Yu , Mauersberger Rüdiger , Mikolajewski Dirk J.
Published: August 2023

Predation is a major factor driving prey trait diversification and promoting ecological speciation. Consequently, antipredator traits are widely studied among prey species. However, comparative studies that examine how different predators shape the ontogenetic growth of antipredator traits are scarce. In larval dragonflies, abdominal spines are effective traits against predatory fish in fish lakes, which prefer larger prey. However, defensive spines increase mortality in habitats dominated by invertebrate predators (invertebrate lakes), which prefer smaller prey. Thus, species from fish lakes may accelerate spine growth at a later body size compared to species from invertebrate lakes when growing into the preferred prey size range of predatory fish. In this study, we constructed the allometric relationship between spine length and body size and compared the inflexion point of those growth curves in five species of Leucorrhinia dragonfly larvae. We found that fish-lake Leucorrhinia species accelerated spine growth at a larger body size than congenerics from invertebrate lakes. Further, rather than extending spine length constantly through development, fish-lake species rapidly accelerated spine growth at a larger body size. This is likely to be adaptive for avoiding invertebrate predation at an early life stage, which are also present in fish lakes, though in smaller numbers. Our results highlight that comparative studies of ontogenetic patterns in antipredator traits might be essential to develop an integrated understanding of predator–prey interactions.
A New Approach for Detecting Sublethal Effects of Neonicotinoids on Bumblebees Using Optical Sensor Technology
Authors: Chatzaki Vasileia , Montoro Marta , El-Rashid Rámi , Jensen Annette Bruun , Lecocq Antoine
Published: August 2023

Among insects, bees are important pollinators, providing many vital ecosystem services. The recent pollinator decline is threatening both their diversity and abundance. One of the main drivers of this decline is the extensive use of pesticides. Neonicotinoids, one of the most popular groups of pesticides, can be toxic to bees. In fact, numerous studies have found that neonicotinoids can cause sublethal effects, which can impair the biology, physiology, and colony survival of the bees. Yet, there are still knowledge gaps, and more research is needed to better understand the interaction between neonicotinoids and bees, especially in the field. A new optical sensor, which can automatically identify flying insects using machine learning, has been created to continuously monitor insect activity in the field. This study investigated the potential use of this sensor as a tool for monitoring the sublethal effects of pesticides on bumblebees. Bombus terrestris workers were orally exposed to field-realistic doses of imidacloprid. Two types of exposures were tested: acute and chronic. The flight activity of pesticide-exposed and non-exposed bumblebees was recorded, and the events of the insect flights recorded by the sensor were used in two ways: to extract the values of the wingbeat frequency and to train machine learning models. The results showed that the trained model was able to recognize differences between the events created by pesticide-exposed bumblebees and the control bumblebees. This study demonstrates the possibility of the optical sensor for use as a tool to monitor bees that have been exposed to sublethal doses of pesticides. The optical sensor can provide data that could be helpful in managing and, ideally, mitigating the decline of pollinators from one of their most major threats, pesticides.
The Effectiveness and Safety of Autologous Platelet Concentrates as Hemostatic Agents after Tooth Extraction in Patients on Anticoagulant Therapy: A Systematic Review of Randomized, Controlled Trials
Authors: Campana Maria Domenica , Aliberti Angelo , Acerra Alfonso , Sammartino Pasquale , Dolce Pasquale , Sammartino Gilberto , Gasparro Roberta
Published: August 2023

One of the common challenges in oral surgery is dealing with patients who are taking oral anticoagulant/antiaggregant drugs. Several local hemostatic agents have been proposed as an alternative to conventional suturing. Among these, autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) have been widely used to decrease the risk of hemorrhage after dental extraction. Nevertheless, there is a lack of consensus regarding the superiority of any one specific hemostatic agent over the others. This systematic review is aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of APCs as hemostatic agents after tooth extraction in patients on anticoagulant therapy. A literature search was conducted of articles published before March 2023 on PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). Studies on the use of APCs in patients undergoing dental extractions and being treated with anticoagulant drugs were included. Only randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) published up to March 2023 were included; the outcomes assessed were the time to hemostasis, the presence of post-operative bleeding and pain, and the effectiveness of wound healing. The risk of bias for each RCT was assessed by using the ‘risk of bias’ tool (RoB 1.0). The research revealed 6 RCTs. The findings indicated that patients on anticoagulant therapy who received APCs without discontinuing their medication experienced a decreased post-operative bleeding, a shorter hemostasis time, reduced pain, and accelerated wound healing. However, due to the high/unclear risk of bias of the studies included, no definitive conclusions can be drawn on the superiority of APCs as hemostatic agents over other similar products. Additional studies are required to validate these findings.
Development of a Novel Prediction Model for Red Blood Cell Transfusion Risk in Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Alonso-Tuñón Ordoño , Bertomeu-Cornejo Manuel , Castillo-Cantero Isabel , Borrego-Domínguez José Miguel , García-Cabrera Emilio , Bejar-Prado Luis , Vilches-Arenas Angel
Published: August 2023

Background: Cardiac surgery is a complex and invasive procedure that often requires blood transfusions to replace the blood lost during surgery. Blood products are a scarce and expensive resource. Therefore, it is essential to develop a standardized approach to determine the need for blood transfusions in cardiac surgery. The main objective of our study is to develop a simple prediction model for determining the risk of red blood cell transfusion in cardiac surgery. Methods: Retrospective cohorts of adult patients who underwent cardiac surgery between 2017 and 2019 were studied to identify hypothetical predictors of blood transfusion. Finally, a multivariable logistic regression model was developed to predict the risk of transfusion in cardiac surgery using the AUC and the Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test. Results: We included 1234 patients who underwent cardiac surgery. Of the entire cohort, 875 patients underwent a cardiac procedure 69.4% [CI 95% (66.8%; 72.0%)]; 119 patients 9.6% [CI 95% (8.1%; 11.4%)] underwent a combined procedure, and 258 patients 20.9% [CI 95% (18.7; 23.2)] underwent other cardiac procedures. The median perioperative hemoglobin was 13.0 mg/dL IQR (11.7; 14.2). The factors associated with the risk of transfusion were age > 60 years OR 1.37 CI 95% (1.02; 1.83); sex female OR 1.67 CI 95% (1.24; 2.24); BMI > 30 OR 1.46 (1.10; 1.93); perioperative hemoglobin < 14 OR 2.11 to 51.41 and combined surgery OR 3.97 CI 95% (2.19; 7.17). The final model shows an AUC of 80.9% for the transfusion risk prediction [IC 95% (78.5–83.3%)]; p < 0.001]. Conclusions: We have developed a model with good discriminatory ability, which is more parsimonious and efficient than other models.
Forest Type and Climate Outweigh Soil Bank in Shaping Dynamic Changes in Macrofungal Diversity in the Ancient Tree Park of Northeast China
Authors: Zhu Zhaoxiang , Liu Xin , Hsiang Tom , Ji Ruiqing , Liu Shuyan
Published: August 2023

The community structure of macrofungi is influenced by multiple complex factors, including climate, soil, vegetation, and human activities, making it challenging to discern their individual contributions. To investigate the dynamic changes in macrofungal diversity in an Ancient Tree Park located in Northeast China and explore the factors influencing this change, we collected 1007 macrofungi specimens from different habitats within the park and identified 210 distinct fungal species using morphological characteristics and ITS sequencing. The species were classified into 2 phyla, 6 classes, 18 orders, 55 families, and 94 genera. We found macrofungal compositions among different forest types, with the mixed forest displaying the highest richness and diversity. Climatic factors, particularly rainfall and temperature, positively influenced macrofungal species richness and abundance. Additionally, by analyzing the soil fungal community structure and comparing aboveground macrofungi with soil fungi in this small-scale survey, we found that the soil fungal bank is not the main factor leading to changes in the macrofungal community structure, as compared to the influence of climate factors and forest types. Our findings provide valuable insights into the dynamic nature of macrofungal diversity in the Ancient Tree Park, highlighting the influence of climate and forest type.
First Record of the Edible Mushroom Lepista sordida in Western Algerian Forest: Nutritional Value and Physicochemical Parameters of Mycelial Culture
Authors: Alim Yousra , Sidhoum Warda , Dib Soulef
Published: August 2023

The exploration of the western forests of Algeria led to the remarkable discovery of the first occurrence of Lepista sordida, an edible wild mushroom of significant culinary importance for the local community, traditionally consumed in its natural state. This discovery was made possible through the use of various methods, including macroscopic observations (revealing a violet color) as well as microscopic observations conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealing a cylindrical shape with distinct contours. Additionally, molecular analyses were conducted. Genomic DNA was extracted from the mycelium, followed by DNA amplification using specific primers targeting the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS1 and ITS2). After PCR reactions and sequencing of the obtained amplicons, the nucleotide sequences of the mycelium were submitted to the GenBank database of NCBI with the assigned accession number: MZ928450.1. These sequences were subsequently used to construct the phylogenetic tree. Furthermore, an in-depth study of physicochemical parameters was undertaken to determine the optimal conditions for cultivating the mycelium of this edible wild mushroom, including pH, temperature, relative humidity, and light. Different temperatures were examined: 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 °C. The effect of pH on mycelium growth was studied using a PDA agar medium with buffered values of 4, 5, 5.6, 6, 7, and 8. Similarly, six levels of relative humidity were tested: 14, 50, 74, 80, 95, and 100%. A study on the impact of light on mycelium growth was conducted by exposing Petri dishes inoculated with PDA to a light intensity of 500 lux for 5, 10, 15, 20, and 24 h. The results clearly demonstrated that variations in these different physicochemical parameters significantly influenced mycelium growth. For the Lepista sordida strain, growth was favored at pH levels of 4, 5, 6, and 6, with no growth observed at pH 7 and 8. The optimal temperature range for mycelium growth of Lepista sordida was 20–25 °C, while no growth was observed at 30, 35, 40, and 45 °C. Relative humidity levels of 74, 80, and 95% showed no significant differences. Optimization of mycelium growth and primordia production in Lepista sordida were successfully achieved. Optimal conditions for the primordia phase were identified as 25 °C, with humidity ranging from 90 to 95%. A nutritional analysis of fresh sporophores was conducted using established analytical methods. Notably, the nutritional composition of Lepista sordida sporophores exhibited high significance for the following parameters: moisture content (67.23 ± 1.90%), ash content (9.35 ± 0.66%), fat content (3.25 ± 0.24%), protein content (17.22 ± 0.38%), and carbohydrate content (63.83 ± 1.23%).
Comparative Micro-Scale Abrasive Wear Testing of Thermally Sprayed and Hard Chromium Coatings
Authors: Chișiu Georgiana , Gheța Roxana-Alexandra , Stoica Alina-Maria , Stoica Nicolae-Alexandru
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, due to the carcinogenic effects of chrome, replacing the hard chromium used for hydraulic components like rods and cylinders is becoming increasingly requested. Thermally sprayed coatings are a solution to the problem; however, proper understanding and characterisation of their tribological behaviour are essential for the successful exploitation of surface engineering. Thus, the main aim of this study is to evaluate the abrasive wear characteristics of two metal sprayed layers, tungsten carbide (WC) deposited through the high-velocity oxygen fuel coating (HVOF) method and Fe alloy coating deposited through thermal spraying with an electric arc with a wire-electrode G3Si1, and compare the results with those of an electrochemically deposited hard chromium layer. Their wear resistance is then related to their hardness. The results highlight the tribological performances of the thermally sprayed coatings. The HVOF WC10Co4Cr coating has a wear coefficient and a material wear volume that are hundreds of times lower than those of the other two coatings.
Improved Electrochemical Performance of Li-Rich Cathode Materials via Spinel Li2MoO4 Coating
Authors: Zhang Shuhao , Ye Yun , Chen Zhaoxiong , Lai Qinghao , Liu Tie , Wang Qiang , Yuan Shuang
Published: August 2023

Li-rich manganese-based cathode materials (LRMs) are considered one of the most promising cathode materials for the next generation of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) because of their high energy density. However, there are problems such as a capacity decay, poor rate performance, and continuous voltage drop, which seriously limit their large-scale commercial applications. In this work, Li1.2Mn0.54Co0.13Ni0.13O2 coated with Li2MoO4 with a unique spinel structure was prepared with the wet chemistry method and the subsequent calcination process. The Li2MoO4 coating layer with a spinel structure could provide a 3D Li+ transport channel, which is beneficial for improving rate performance, while protecting LRMs from electrolyte corrosion, suppressing interface side reactions, and improving cycling stability. The capacity retention rate of LRMs coated with 3 wt% Li2MoO4 increased from 69.25% to 81.85% after 100 cycles at 1 C, and the voltage attenuation decreased from 7.06 to 4.98 mV per cycle. The lower Rct also exhibited an improved rate performance. The results indicate that the Li2MoO4 coating effectively improves the cyclic stability and electrochemical performance of LRMs.
Enhancement of Alkali Resistance of Glass Fibers via In Situ Modification of Manganese-Based Nanomaterials
Authors: Wang Guangzhou , Zhang Jinzhuo , Li Fuxin , Li Kangli , Xin Minglian , Zhu Jiang , Lu Xiaolei , Cheng Xin , Zhang Lina
Published: August 2023

Glass fibers are widely used in cement-based precast products, given the reinforcing requirements for toughness and strength. However, inferior alkali resistance hinders the effectiveness of glass fibers in reinforcing cement-based materials. In this paper, nanoparticle coatings were applied on the surface of alkali-resistant glass fiber (ARGF) as a protective layer via the in situ chemical reaction of oleic acid (OA) and potassium permanganate (PP). The morphology and constituents of the as-prepared ARGFs were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and obtaining X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements. Mass loss and strength retention were investigated to characterize alkali resistance of modified ARGFs. Results showed that ARGFs could be optimally coated by a layer of MnO2-based nanoparticles consisting of approximately 70% MnO2, 18% MnO, and 12% MnSiO3, when modified with an optimum OA to PP ratio of 10 for 24 h. The dissolution of ARGFs matrix in 4% and 10% NaOH solutions were distinctly delayed to 28 d, as a consequence of the introduction of the MnO2-based nanoparticle layer, compared with nontreated ARGF occurring at 3 d in 4% NaOH solution. For the optimally modified ARGFs, the mass loss was controlled to 1.76% and 2.91% after 90 d of corrosion in 4% and 10% NaOH solutions, and the retention of tensile strength was increased by approximately 25%. With respect to the increment in alkali-resistant performance, the modified ARGFs can be promising candidates for wide applications in alkaline cement-based products.
Pushout Bond Strength in Coronal Dentin: A Standardization Approach in Comparison to Shear Bond Strength
Authors: Schröter Franz-Josef , Ilie Nicoleta
Published: August 2023

To find an alternative that is closer to clinical reality in terms of cavity geometry and configuration factor, this study investigated the pushout test on in vitro adhesive testing to coronal dentin when compared to the established shear test, both in a standardized approach. For a feasible comparison between both tests, the pushout specimen was adjusted in thickness (1.03 ± 0.05 mm) and cavity diameter (1.42 ± 0.03 mm) to receive a bonding area (4.63 ± 0.26 mm2) that matches that of the shear test (4.57 ± 0.13 mm2). Though, the configuration factor between both tests differs largely (pushout 1.5 ± 0.08; shear bond 0.20 ± 0.01). The bond strength of five different adhesives (n = 20) was investigated for both tests. The pushout test registered a high number of invalid measurements (30%) due to concomitant dentin fracture during testing. In contrast to the shear test, the pushout test failed to discriminate between different adhesives (p = 0.367). Both tests differed largely from each other when comparing adhesive groups. When solely looking at the valid specimens, Weibull modulus reached higher values in the pushout approach. Conclusively, the pushout test in this specific setup does not distinguish as precisely as the shear bond test between different adhesives and needs adaption to be routinely applied in adhesive dentistry.
Contactless Method for Measurement of Surface Roughness Based on a Chromatic Confocal Sensor
Authors: Lishchenko Natalia , O’Donnell Garret E. , Culleton Mark
Published: August 2023

The methodology for assigning and assessing the surface quality is used at various stages of the product life cycle: during the design and technological preparation of production, the production itself, and during the control (testing) of products. The development of advanced technologies requires in situ part control. A non-contact in situ surface roughness measuring system is proposed in this paper. The proposed system utilizes a chromatic confocal sensor, and profile data, waviness data, roughness data, Ra, and Rz parameters are generated in the developed data-processing software. The assembled measuring system based on the chromatic confocal laser sensor showed its performance in assessing the roughness parameter Ra, from 0.34 µm to more than 12 µm, which covers a common range of milling, turning, and grinding. In this range, measurement relative errors can be controlled within 10%. Frequency analysis and correlation analysis of profilograms were performed. Frequency analysis made it possible to establish the dominant frequency components that occur in the profilogram of the samples, while correlation analysis was used to develop a methodology for identifying the deterministic and random components of the processed surface profile signal. The results of the analysis can be further used to develop diagnostic functions for process monitoring based on profilogram estimates, such as the autocorrelation function and the power spectrum density.
Adaptive Global Synchronization for a Class of Quaternion-Valued Cohen-Grossberg Neural Networks with Known or Unknown Parameters
Authors: Guo Jun , Shi Yanchao , Luo Weihua , Cheng Yanzhao , Wang Shengye
Published: August 2023

In this paper, the adaptive synchronization problem of quaternion-valued Cohen–Grossberg neural networks (QVCGNNs), with and without known parameters, is investigated. On the basis of constructing an appropriate Lyapunov function, and utilizing parameter identification theory and decomposition methods, two effective adaptive feedback schemes are proposed, to guarantee the realization of global synchronization of CGQVNNs. The control gain of the above schemes can be obtained using the Matlab LMI toolbox. The theoretical results presented in this work enrich the literature exploring the adaptive synchronization problem of quaternion-valued neural networks (QVNNs). Finally, the reliability of the theoretical schemes derived in this work is shown in two interesting numerical examples.
L1 Adaptive Control for Marine Structures
Authors: Sainz Jose Joaquin , Becerra Victor , Revestido Herrero Elías , Llata Jose Ramon , Velasco Francisco J.
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, many maritime structures require precise dynamic positioning (DP) of the constructive elements that compose them. In addition, the use of preconstructed elements that are later moved to the final location has become widespread. These operations have not been automated with the risks involved in carrying out the complex operations required. To minimize these operational risks and to perform a correct DP of floating structures, a new approach based on the L1 adaptive control technique is proposed. As an example of application, a proposed L1 adaptive controller was implemented in the dynamic positioning of a floating caisson. Several simulations of the system with wave disturbances were carried out, and the results were compared with those obtained by applying other classical and advanced control techniques, such as linear quadratic Gaussian control (LQG) and model predictive control (MPC). It was concluded that the proposed L1 adaptive controller performs correct dynamic positioning and reduces the tension generated on the lines concerning the other advanced control techniques with which it was compared. This reduction in line tension leads to an important improvement due to the possibility of reducing the size of the actuators or reducing their number, with the important economic and safety repercussions that these actions entail.
Controlled Arrivals on the Retrial Queueing–Inventory System with an Essential Interruption and Emergency Vacationing Server
Authors: Nithya N. , Anbazhagan N. , Amutha S. , Jeganathan K. , Park Gi-Cheon , Joshi Gyanendra Prasad , Cho Woong
Published: August 2023

In recent times, we have encountered new situations that have imposed restrictions on our ability to visit public places. These changes have affected various aspects of our lives, including limited access to supermarkets, vegetable shops, and other essential establishments. As a response to these circumstances, we have developed a continuous review retrial queueing–inventory system featuring a single server and controlled customer arrivals. In our system, customers arriving to procure a single item follow a Markovian Arrival Process, while the service time for each customer is modeled by an exponential distribution. Inventories are replenished according to the (s,Q) reordering policy with exponentially distributed lead times. The system controls arrival in the waiting space with setup time. The customers who arrive at a not allowed situation decide to enter an orbit of infinite size with predefined probability. Orbiting customers make retrials to claim a place in the waiting space, and their inter-retrial times are exponentially distributed. The server may experience essential interruption (emergency situation) which arrives according to Poisson process. Then, the server goes for an emergency vacation of a random time which is exponentially distributed. In the steady-state case, the joint probability of the number of customers in orbit and the inventory level has been found, and the Matrix Geometric Method has been used to find the steady-state probability vector. In numerical calculations, the convexity of the system and the impact of F-policy and emergency vacation in the system are discussed.
An Improved Interval-Valued Hesitant Fuzzy Weighted Geometric Operator for Multi-Criterion Decision-Making
Authors: Zhong Yanru , Lu Zhengshuai , Li Yiyuan , Qin Yuchu , Huang Meifa
Published: August 2023

In this paper, an improved interval-valued hesitant fuzzy weighted geometric (IIVHFWG) operator for multi-criterion decision-making is proposed. This operator is free of the limitations of the existing interval-valued hesitant fuzzy weighted average operator, interval-valued hesitant fuzzy weighted geometric operator, generalized interval-valued hesitant fuzzy weighted geometric operator, interval-valued hesitant fuzzy Hammer weighted average operator, and interval-valued hesitant fuzzy Hammer weighted geometric operator, which are prone to being influenced by extreme values. Based on the proposed IIVHFWG operator, a new method to solve the multi-criterion decisionmaking problems with interval-valued hesitant fuzzy elements is presented. Several numerical examples together with comparisons are introduced to demonstrate the effectiveness and advantages of this method.
PQ-Mist: Priority Queueing-Assisted Mist–Cloud–Fog System for Geospatial Web Services
Authors: Panigrahi Sunil K. , Goswami Veena , Apat Hemant K. , Mund Ganga B. , Das Himansu , Barik Rabindra K.
Published: August 2023

The IoT and cloud environment renders enormous quantities of geospatial information. Fog and mist computing is the scaling technology that handles geospatial data and sends it to the cloud storage system through fog/mist nodes. Installing a mist–cloud–fog system reduces latency and throughput. This mist–cloud–fog system has processed different types of geospatial web services, i.e., web coverage service (WCS), web processing services (WPS), web feature services (WFS), and web map services (WMS). There is an urgent requirement to increase the number of computer devices tailored to deliver high-priority jobs for processing these geospatial web services. This paper proposes a priority-queueing assisted mist–cloud–fog system for efficient resource allocation for high- and low-priority tasks. In this study, WFS is treated as high-priority service, whereas WMS is treated as low-priority service. This system dynamically allocates mist nodes and is determined by the load on the system. In addition to that, the assignment of tasks is determined by priority. Not only does this classify high-priority tasks and low-priority tasks, which helps reduce the amount of delay experienced by high-priority jobs, but it also dynamically allocates mist devices within the network depending on the computation load, which helps reduce the amount of power that is consumed by the network. The findings indicate that the proposed system can achieve a significantly lower delay for higher-priority jobs for more significant rates of task arrival when compared with other related schemes. In addition to this, it offers a technique that is both mathematical and analytical for investigating and assessing the performance of the proposed system. The QoS requirements for each device demand are factored into calculating the number of mist nodes deployed to satisfy those requirements.
Marine Drug Discovery through Computer-Aided Approaches
Authors: Gaudêncio Susana P. , Pereira Florbela
Published: August 2023

Besides the importance of our oceans as oxygen factories, food providers, shipping pathways, and tourism enablers, oceans hide an unprecedented wealth of opportunities [...]
Arctic Sea Ice Microalga Chlamydomonas latifrons KNF0041: Identification and Statistical Optimization of Medium for Enhanced Biomass and Omega-3/Omega-6
Authors: Chae Hyunsik , Kim Sanghee , Choi Han-Gu , Kim Ji Hee , Han Se Jong , Kim Eun Jae
Published: August 2023

Polar microorganisms produce biologically active compounds that enable them to survive in harsh environments. These compounds have potential biomedical applications. The green microalga Chlamydomonas latifrons KNF0041, isolated from Arctic sea ice, has been found to produce polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including omega-3 and omega-6, which have antioxidant properties. To improve the biomass production of strain KNF0041, statistical methods such as the Plackett–Burman design, Box–Behnken design, and response surface methodology (RSM) were utilized for medium optimization. The optimized medium was designed with increased potassium phosphate content and reduced acetic acid (AcOH) content. The use of the optimized medium resulted in an increase in the cell number as biomass of strain KNF0041 by 34.18% and the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid (FA) content by 10.04% and 58.29%, respectively, compared to that in normal TAP medium, which is known as the growth medium for Chlamydomonas culture. In this study, Chlamydomonas latifrons was discovered for the first time in the polar region and identified using morphology and molecular phylogenetic analyses, the secondary structures of the internal transcribed spacers, and optimized culture conditions. The results of this study provide an efficient method for the application of polar microalgae for the production of bioactive compounds.
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Patient Changes during the COVID-19 Quarantine
Authors: Rodriguez Alexandra , Steffens Younes , Calvo-Henriquez Christian , Mayo-Yáñez Miguel , Horoi Mihaela , Lechien Jerome R.
Published: August 2023

Background and Objective: To examine the effects of the lockdown on diet adherence and stress levels in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Materials and Methods: Patients with a positive LPR diagnosis at the hypopharyngeal-esophageal impedance-pH monitoring were treated from a pre- to lockdown period with a 3-month high-protein, low-fat, alkaline, plant-based diet, with behavioral changes, and an association of pantoprazole (20 MG/d) and alginate (Gaviscon 3/d). The following patient-reported outcomes questionnaire and findings instrument were used: Reflux Symptom Score-12 (RSS-12) and Reflux Sign Assessment (RSA). At the posttreatment time, patients were invited to evaluate the impact of lockdown on diet adherence and stress management with a predefined grid of foods and beverages and the perceived stress scale (PSS), respectively. Results: Thirty-two patients completed the evaluations. RSS-12 and RSA significantly improved from baseline to 3-month posttreatment. Most patients experienced mild-to-severe stress levels at the end of the lockdown. The level of stress substantially increased in 11 patients (34%) due to the lockdown, while it did not change in 11 patients (44%). In 11 cases (34%), patients reported that the adherence to the anti-reflux diet was better than initially presumed thanks to the lockdown period, while 44% (N = 14) reported that the lockdown did not impact the adherence to a diet. PSS and RSS-12 were significantly correlated at the end of the pandemic (rs = 0.681; p < 0.001). The increase in stress level was positively associated with the lack of adherence to diet (rs = 0.367; p = 0.039). Conclusions: During the lockdown, the diet habits of LPR patients were improved in one-third and unchanged in 44% of cases. The stress level was increased in one-third of patients, which was associated with an increase in symptom scores.
Type I Dentin Dysplasia: The Literature Review and Case Report of a Family Affected by Misrecognition and Late Diagnosis
Authors: Putrino Alessandra , Caputo Martina , Galeotti Angela , Marinelli Enrico , Zaami Simona
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: Type I dentin dysplasia (DD-I) is a rare genetic disorder with autosomal dominant or recessive inheritance at risk of late or long-misunderstood diagnosis because the teeth, compared to other degenerative dentin diseases, do not have coronal defects and/or alterations but only at the root level (absent, conical, pointed roots, and obliterated pulp canals). The first radiographic suspicion often occurs only in case of sudden mobility and/or abscesses of the permanent teeth. Genetic tests confirm the diagnosis. Case Presentation: This case report describes the oral and radiographic characteristics of two siblings, 12 and 10 years old, a male and a female, at an early age affected by DD-I, whose diagnosis was made for a first orthodontic visit. The father and the older child had already undergone dental and orthodontic treatments, respectively, without the disease being suspected by the dentist. Results: Genetic tests support the diagnosis of DD-I. Following the diagnosis, the patients began a process of close periodic checks every 3–4 months to monitor their situation. The male child lost upper lateral incisors, which were then replaced with a light nylon removable prosthesis. Conclusions: The ability to recognize the radiographic features characteristic of DD-I is very important to avoid prejudicial diagnostic delays and to be able to plan the long-term treatment of these patients better, especially when the pathology was primarily misrecognized in the family.
The Course and Variation of the Facial Vein in the Face—Known and Unknown Facts: An Anatomical Study
Authors: Siwetz Martin , Widni-Pajank Hannes , Hammer Niels , Pilsl Ulrike , Bruneder Simon , Wree Andreas , Antipova Veronica
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: The facial vein is the main collector of venous blood from the face. It plays an important role in physiological as well as pathological context. However, to date, only limited data on the course and tributaries of the facial vein are present in contemporary literature. The aim of this study was to provide detail on the course and the tributaries of the facial vein. Materials and Methods: In 96 sides of 53 body donors, latex was injected into the facial vein. Dissection was carried out and the facial vein and its tributaries (angular vein, ophthalmic vein, nasal veins, labial veins, palpebral veins, buccal and masseteric veins) were assessed. Results: The facial vein presented a textbook-like course in all cases and crossed the margin of the mandible anterior to the masseter in 6.8% of cases, while being located deep to the zygomaticus major muscle in all cases and deep to the zygomaticus minor in 94.6% of cases. Conclusions: This work offers detailed information on the course of the facial vein in relation to neighboring structures, which shows a relatively consistent pattern, as well as on its tributaries, which show a high variability.
Long-Term Retention Rate of Tofacitinib in Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Italian Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Paroli Marino , Becciolini Andrea , Bravi Elena , Andracco Romina , Nucera Valeria , Parisi Simone , Ometto Francesca , Lumetti Federica , Farina Antonella , Del Medico Patrizia , Colina Matteo , Lo Gullo Alberto , Ravagnani Viviana , Scolieri Palma , Larosa Maddalena , Priora Marta , Visalli Elisa , Addimanda Olga , Vitetta Rosetta , Volpe Alessandro , Bezzi Alessandra , Girelli Francesco , Molica Colella Aldo Biagio , Caccavale Rosalba , Di Donato Eleonora , Adorni Giuditta , Santilli Daniele , Lucchini Gianluca , Arrigoni Eugenio , Platè Ilaria , Mansueto Natalia , Ianniello Aurora , Fusaro Enrico , Ditto Maria Chiara , Bruzzese Vincenzo , Camellino Dario , Bianchi Gerolamo , Serale Francesca , Foti Rosario , Amato Giorgio , De Lucia Francesco , Dal Bosco Ylenia , Foti Roberta , Reta Massimo , Fiorenza Alessia , Rovera Guido , Marchetta Antonio , Focherini Maria Cristina , Mascella Fabio , Bernardi Simone , Sandri Gilda , Giuggioli Dilia , Salvarani Carlo , Franchina Veronica , Molica Colella Francesco , Ferrero Giulio , Ariani Alarico
Published: August 2023

Background: Tofacitinib (TOFA) was the first Janus kinase inhibitor (JAKi) to be approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, data on the retention rate of TOFA therapy are still far from definitive. Objective: The goal of this study is to add new real-world data on the TOFA retention rate in a cohort of RA patients followed for a long period of time. Methods: A multicenter retrospective study of RA subjects treated with TOFA as monotherapy or in combination with conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) was conducted in 23 Italian tertiary rheumatology centers. The study considered a treatment period of up to 48 months for all included patients. The TOFA retention rate was assessed with the Kaplan–Meier method. Hazard ratios (HRs) for TOFA discontinuation were obtained using Cox regression analysis. Results: We enrolled a total of 213 patients. Data analysis revealed that the TOFA retention rate was 86.5% (95% CI: 81.8–91.5%) at month 12, 78.8% (95% CI: 78.8–85.2%) at month 24, 63.8% (95% CI: 55.1–73.8%) at month 36, and 59.9% (95% CI: 55.1–73.8%) at month 48 after starting treatment. None of the factors analyzed, including the number of previous treatments received, disease activity or duration, presence of rheumatoid factor and/or anti-citrullinated protein antibody, and presence of comorbidities, were predictive of the TOFA retention rate. Safety data were comparable to those reported in the registration studies. Conclusions: TOFA demonstrated a long retention rate in RA in a real-world setting. This result, together with the safety data obtained, underscores that TOFA is a viable alternative for patients who have failed treatment with csDMARD and/or biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs). Further large, long-term observational studies are urgently needed to confirm these results.
The Human PDZome 2.0: Characterization of a New Resource to Test for PDZ Interactions by Yeast Two-Hybrid
Authors: Castro-Cruz Monica , Lembo Frédérique , Borg Jean-Paul , Travé Gilles , Vincentelli Renaud , Zimmermann Pascale
Published: August 2023

PSD95-disc large-zonula occludens (PDZ) domains are globular modules of 80–90 amino acids that co-evolved with multicellularity. They commonly bind to carboxy-terminal sequences of a plethora of membrane-associated proteins and influence their trafficking and signaling. We previously built a PDZ resource (PDZome) allowing us to unveil human PDZ interactions by Yeast two-hybrid. Yet, this resource is incomplete according to the current knowledge on the human PDZ proteome. Here we built the PDZome 2.0 library for Yeast two-hybrid, based on a PDZ library manually curated from online resources. The PDZome2.0 contains 305 individual clones (266 PDZ domains in isolation and 39 tandems), for which all boundaries were designed based on available PDZ structures. Using as bait the E6 oncoprotein from HPV16, a known promiscuous PDZ interactor, we show that PDZome 2.0 outperforms the previous resource.
Electrochemical Characterization of Charged Membranes from Different Materials and Structures via Membrane Potential Analysis
Authors: Romero Virginia , Gelde Lourdes , Benavente Juana
Published: August 2023

Electrochemical characterization of positively and negatively charged membranes is performed by analyzing membrane potential values on the basis of the Teorell–Meyer–Sievers (TMS) model. This analysis allows the separate estimation of Donnan (interfacial effects) and diffusion (differences in ions transport through the membrane) contributions, and it permits the evaluation of the membrane’s effective fixed charge concentration and the transport number of the ions in the membrane. Typical ion-exchange commercial membranes (AMX, Ionics or Nafion) are analyzed, though other experimental and commercial membranes, which are derived from different materials and have diverse structures (dense, swollen or nanoporous structures), are also considered. Moreover, for some membranes, changes associated with different modifications and other effects (concentration gradient or level, solution stirring, etc.) are also analyzed.
Variable-Structure Proportional–Integral–Derivative Laser Solder Joint Temperature Intelligent Control Method with Adjustable Power Upper Limit
Authors: Li Mingchao , Cao Pengbin , Zhang Cong , Yan Kuan , Zhang Yuquan
Published: August 2023

Laser soldering is a crucial soldering technique in the realm of electronic assembly. The temperature of the solder joint is intimately connected with the quality of the solder. This paper introduces an adjustable power upper limit variable-structure Proportional–Integral–Derivative (PID) intelligent control method for regulating the temperature of the solder joint during laser soldering. Distinct laser power limits are employed for workpieces with varying heat capacities. The solder joint temperature is monitored through an infrared thermometer, which enables closed-loop temperature control via a variable-structure PID algorithm. Residual neural network (ResNet) models are utilized to predict key soldering process parameters. This method has been executed and validated on a practical testing platform. Compared to other laser soldering control techniques, the proposed method demonstrates a low overshoot, rapid dynamic response, and swift adjustment capabilities, effectively enhancing the soldering quality and production efficiency.
Electrohydrodynamic Printed Ultra-Micro AgNPs Thin Film Temperature Sensors Array for High-Resolution Sensing
Authors: He Yingping , Li Lanlan , Su Zhixuan , Xu Lida , Guo Maocheng , Duan Bowen , Wang Wenxuan , Cheng Bo , Sun Daoheng , Hai Zhenyin
Published: August 2023

Current methods for thin film sensors preparation include screen printing, inkjet printing, and MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) techniques. However, their limitations in achieving sub-10 μm line widths hinder high-density sensors array fabrication. Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing is a promising alternative due to its ability to print multiple materials and multilayer structures with patterned films less than 10 μm width. In this paper, we innovatively proposed a method using only EHD printing to prepare ultra-micro thin film temperature sensors array. The sensitive layer of the four sensors was compactly integrated within an area measuring 450 μm × 450 μm, featuring a line width of less than 10 μm, and a film thickness ranging from 150 nm to 230 nm. The conductive network of silver nanoparticles exhibited a porosity of 0.86%. After a 17 h temperature-resistance test, significant differences in the performance of the four sensors were observed. Sensor 3 showcased relatively superior performance, boasting a fitted linearity of 0.99994 and a TCR of 937.8 ppm/°C within the temperature range of 20 °C to 120 °C. Moreover, after the 17 h test, a resistance change rate of 0.17% was recorded at 20 °C.
Analysis of Airborne Fungal Communities on Pedestrian Bridges in Urban Environments
Authors: Al-Shaarani Amran A. Q. A. , Quach Ziwei M. , Wang Xiao , Muafa Mohammed H. M. , Nafis Md M. H. , Pecoraro Lorenzo
Published: August 2023

Airborne fungal spores constitute an important type of bioaerosol and are responsible for a number of negative effects on human health, including respiratory diseases and allergies. We investigated the diversity and concentration of culturable airborne fungi on pedestrian bridges in Tianjin, China, using an HAS-100B air sampler. We compared the airborne fungal communities at the top central area of the selected pedestrian bridges and along the corresponding sidewalk, at ground level. A total of 228 fungal strains belonging to 96 species and 58 genera of Ascomycota (68.86%), Basidiomycota (30.26%), and Mucoromycota (0.88%) were isolated and identified using morphological and molecular analysis. Alternaria was the dominant genus (20.61%), followed by Cladosporium (11.48%), Schizophyllum (6.14%), Sporobolomyces (5.70%), and Sporidiobolus (4.82%). Alternaria alternata was the most frequently occurring fungal species (6.58%), followed by Schizophyllum commune (5.26%), Alternaria sp. (4.82%), Sporobolomyces carnicolor (4.39%), and Cladosporium cladosporioides (3.95%). The recorded fungal concentration ranged from 10 to 180 CFU/m3. Although there was no significant difference in the distribution and abundance of the dominant airborne fungal taxa between the two investigated bridges’ sites, numerous species detected with a low percentage of abundance belonging to well-known pathogenic fungal genera, including Alternaria, Aspergillus, Aureobasidium, Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Trichoderma, were exclusively present in one of the two sites. The relative humidity showed a stronger influence compared to the temperature on the diversity and concentration of airborne fungi in the investigated sites. Our results may provide valuable information for air quality monitoring and for assessing human health risks associated with microbial pollution.
3D Multicomponent Self-Potential Inversion: Theory and Application to the Exploration of Seafloor Massive Sulfide Deposits on Mid-Ocean Ridges
Authors: Zhu Zhongmin , Tao Chunhui , Shan Zhigang , Revil André , Su Zhaoyang , Nie Zuofu , Shen Jinsong , Deng Xianming , Zhou Jianping
Published: August 2023

The marine self-potential (SP) method is currently playing an increasing role in the exploration and resource evaluation of seafloor massive sulfide (SMS) deposits. SP surveys are conducted using autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV), which yield multicomponent electric field datasets. By comparing with the single-component electrical field data used to date, the inversion of these multicomponent data is expected to provide a more accurate description of the 3D structure of SMS deposits beneath the seafloor (like gradiometry in gravity surveys). We introduce an inversion algorithm specifically adapted to multicomponent SP data. A synthetic model demonstrates that the inversion of multicomponent datasets allows us to better recover the amplitude of the current density and the morphology of the ore bodies compared to using a single component of the electrical field. Next, we apply our approach to a multicomponent SP dataset collected during the DY58 oceanic cruise at the Yuhuang hydrothermal field on the Southwest Indian Ridge. Subsequently, we reconstruct the three-dimensional (3D) geometry of the SMS deposits beneath the seafloor. The AUV-based SP system with the collection of multicomponent SP data inversion appears to be a powerful tool in the exploration and evaluation of seafloor sulfide resource and, in the future, could be used in concert with induced polarization data.