bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Electrochemical Corrosion on the Properties of Modified Concrete
Authors: Gordina Anastasiya , Gumenyuk Aleksandr , Polyanskikh Irina , Yakovlev Grigorij , Černý Vít
Published: April 2023

Analysis of the use of reinforced concrete structures confirmed the destruction of reinforced products based on Portland cement due to stray currents, which makes it impossible to achieve the required durability and reliability of structures. The present work shows the results of a study on the diffusion permeability of samples with different degrees of electrical conductivity. The relative value of the electrode potential was measured by the open circuit potential method. The novelty of this work is its analysis of the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the structure of the mineral matrix with specified electrical properties after long-term exposure to electrochemical corrosion. In this work, an assessment was carried out, for the first time, on the effects of electrochemical corrosion on modified composites with predominantly electrically conductive and electrically insulating properties. An increase in the electrical conductivity of the composite was found to reduce the potential difference. The use of such composites helped protect the reinforcement from electrochemical corrosion.
Symptoms Predicting SARS-CoV-2 Test Results in Resident Physicians and Fellows in New York City
Authors: Chen Tania P. , Yao Meizhen , Midya Vishal , Kolod Betty , Khan Rabeea F. , Oduwole Adeyemi , Camins Bernard , Leitman I. Michael , Nabeel Ismail , Oliver Kristin , Valvi Damaskini
Published: April 2023

Accurate prediction of SARS-CoV-2 infection based on symptoms can be a cost-efficient tool for remote screening in healthcare settings with limited SARS-CoV-2 testing capacity. We used a machine learning approach to determine self-reported symptoms that best predict a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result in physician trainees from a large healthcare system in New York. We used survey data on symptoms history and SARS-CoV-2 testing results collected retrospectively from 328 physician trainees in the Mount Sinai Health System, over the period 1 February 2020 to 31 July 2020. Prospective data on symptoms reported prior to SARS-CoV-2 test results were available from the employee health service COVID-19 registry for 186 trainees and analyzed to confirm absence of recall bias. We estimated the associations between symptoms and IgG antibody and/or reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction test results using Bayesian generalized linear mixed effect regression models adjusted for confounders. We identified symptoms predicting a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result using extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost). Cough, chills, fever, fatigue, myalgia, headache, shortness of breath, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, loss of smell, loss of taste, malaise and runny nose were associated with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result. Loss of taste, myalgia, loss of smell, cough and fever were identified as key predictors for a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result in the XGBoost model. Inclusion of sociodemographic and occupational risk factors in the model improved prediction only slightly (from AUC = 0.822 to AUC = 0.838). Loss of taste, myalgia, loss of smell, cough and fever are key predictors for symptom-based screening of SARS-CoV-2 infection in healthcare settings with remote screening and/or limited testing capacity.
The Associations of Antihypertensive Medications, Steroids, Beta Blockers, Statins and Comorbidities with COVID-19 Outcomes in Patients with and without Chronic Kidney Disease: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kim Paul , Nadarajan Vidhya , Ahmed Maham , Furman Katerina , Gurm Zoya , Kale Priyanka , Khoury Zaina , Koussa Sara , LaBuda Dana , Mekjian Margo , Polamarasetti Pooja , Simo Leticia , Thill Charlotte , Wittenberg Sophie , Dhar Sorabh , Komnenov Dragana
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: Data on COVID-19 outcomes and disease course as a function of different medications used to treat cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease (CKD), as well as the presence of different comorbidities in primarily Black cohorts, are lacking. (2) Methods: We conducted a retrospective medical chart review on 327 patients (62.6% Black race) who were admitted to the Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI. Group differences (CKD vs. non-CKD) were compared using the Pearson χ2 test. We conducted univariate and multivariate regression analyses for factors contributing to death during hospitalization due to COVID-19 (primary outcome) and ICU admission (secondary outcome), adjusting for age, sex, different medications, and comorbidities. A sub-analysis was also completed for CKD patients. (3) Results: In the fully adjusted model, a protective effect of ACEi alone, but not in combination with ARB or CCB, for ICU admission was found (OR = 0.400, 95% CI [0.183–0.874]). Heart failure was significantly associated with the primary outcome (OR = 4.088, 95% CI [1.1661–14.387]), as was COPD (OR = 3.747, 95% CI [1.591–8.828]). (4) Conclusions: Therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular disease and CKD in the milieu of different comorbidities may need to be tailored more prudently for individuals with COVID-19, especially Black individuals.
A Dataset of Marine Macroinvertebrate Diversity from Mozambique and São Tomé and Príncipe
Authors: Bento Marta , Niza Henrique , Cartaxana Alexandra , Bandeira Salomão , Paula José , Correia Alexandra Marçal
Published: April 2023

Marine macroinvertebrate communities play a key role in ecosystem functioning by regulating flows of energy and materials and providing numerous ecosystem services. In Mozambique and São Tomé and Príncipe marine macroinvertebrates are important for the livelihood and food security of local populations. We compiled a dataset on marine invertebrates from Mozambique and São Tomé and Príncipe through an extensive data search of digital platforms, scientific literature, and natural history collections (NHC). This dataset encompasses data from 1816 to 2023 and comprises 20,122 records, representing 617 families, 1552 genera, 2137 species, providing species occurrence in mangrove forests, seagrass beds, coral reefs, and other coastal and offshore habitats. The dataset has a Darwin Core standard format and has been fully released in the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). It is accessible through the GBIF portal under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license. The data are standardized and validated with tools such as WoRMS, GEOLocate, and Google Maps. Therefore, they can be readily used for further studies on species richness, distribution, and functional traits. Overall, this dataset contributes baseline information on marine biodiversity for future research.
A Comprehensive Survey of Transformers for Computer Vision
Authors: Jamil Sonain , Jalil Piran Md. , Kwon Oh-Jin
Published: April 2023

As a special type of transformer, vision transformers (ViTs) can be used for various computer vision (CV) applications. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have several potential problems that can be resolved with ViTs. For image coding tasks such as compression, super-resolution, segmentation, and denoising, different variants of ViTs are used. In our survey, we determined the many CV applications to which ViTs are applicable. CV applications reviewed included image classification, object detection, image segmentation, image compression, image super-resolution, image denoising, anomaly detection, and drone imagery. We reviewed the state of the-art and compiled a list of available models and discussed the pros and cons of each model.
Pseudo-Qutrit Formed by Two Interacting Identical Spins (s = 1/2) in a Variable External Magnetic Field
Authors: Belousov Yury , Chernousov Igor , Man’ko Vladimir
Published: April 2023

An analytical solution is obtained for the problem of two interacting, identical but separated spin 1/2 particles in a time-dependent external magnetic field, in a general case. The solution involves isolating the pseudo-qutrit subsystem from a two-qubit system. It is shown that the quantum dynamics of a pseudo-qutrit system with a magnetic dipole–dipole interaction can be described clearly and accurately in an adiabatic representation, using a time-dependent basis set. The transition probabilities between the energy levels for an adiabatically varying magnetic field, which follows the Landau–Majorana–Stuckelberg–Zener (LMSZ) model within a short time interval, are illustrated in the appropriate graphs. It is shown that for close energy levels and entangled states, the transition probabilities are not small and strongly depend on the time. These results provide insight into the degree of entanglement of two spins (qubits) over time. Furthermore, the results are applicable to more complex systems with a time-dependent Hamiltonian.
Secondary School Apprenticeship Research Experience: Scientific Dispositions and Mentor-Student Interaction
Authors: Edry Mercedes , Sasson Irit , Dori Yehudit Judy
Published: April 2023

This study investigated the impact of a secondary school science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) research apprenticeship program (STEM-RAP) as part of active learning pedagogy on students’ performance. We examined students’ (a) scientific dispositions—self-efficacy, intrinsic goal orientation, and sense of control over learning, (b) STEM career choice, and (c) mentor-student interaction. Research tools included open- and closed-ended questionnaires, as well as interviews with a sample of students and mentors. The questionnaire was administered to 319 11th and 12th grade students majoring in science and technology in Israeli high schools. Of these, 262 participated in STEM-RAP and 57 took part only in studying a high-school STEM subject as a major. The results show highly positive scientific dispositions. A significant difference was found in intrinsic goal orientation in favor of the STEM-RAP students, who also had different contextual images of their mentors as ‘research partners’. The mentor interviews revealed several interaction themes, including content, procedural, and epistemic knowledge development, partnership, and emotional support. The findings emphasize the importance of research activities as part of active learning pedagogy for developing students’ motivation to study science.
The Promising Role of Self-Compassion in Managing Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Kaelberer Chloe , Tanenbaum Molly L.
Published: April 2023

Given the demanding daily regimen for type 1 diabetes (T1D) and emphasis on personal responsibility for self-management, people with T1D can experience self-criticism and diabetes distress. How an individual responds to and copes with diabetes-related feedback may influence self-care, health outcomes, and overall well-being. Self-compassion in the context of diabetes has limited but promising research on its ability to alleviate distress in people with T1D. This narrative review captures relevant, existing literature on self-compassion, compassion-based interventions, and T1D and describes four topic areas where diabetes-specific self-compassion and compassion-based interventions may be particularly relevant: (1) diabetes technology use; (2) relationship with eating and body image; (3) social interactions; and (4) healthcare interactions. Compassion-based interventions have the potential to enhance positive coping skills and to alleviate diabetes distress; more research is needed to understand the role of diabetes-specific self-compassion and to develop high-quality evidence-based interventions.
Analysis of Light Penetration Depth in Apple Tissues by Depth-Resolved Spatial-Frequency Domain Imaging
Authors: Zhou Tongtong , Hu Dong , Qiu Dekai , Yu Shengqi , Huang Yuping , Sun Zhizhong , Sun Xiaolin , Zhou Guoquan , Sun Tong , Peng Hehuan
Published: April 2023

Spatial-frequency domain imaging (SFDI) has been developed as an emerging modality for detecting early-stage bruises of fruits, such as apples, due to its unique advantage of a depth-resolved imaging feature. This paper presents theoretical and experimental analyses to determine the light penetration depth in apple tissues under spatially modulated illumination. Simulation and practical experiments were then carried out to explore the maximum light penetration depths in ‘Golden Delicious’ apples. Then, apple experiments for early-stage bruise detection using the estimated reduced scattering coefficient mapping were conducted to validate the results of light penetration depths. The results showed that the simulations produced comparable or a little larger light penetration depth in apple tissues (~2.2 mm) than the practical experiment (~1.8 mm or ~2.3 mm). Apple peel further decreased the light penetration depth due to the high absorption properties of pigment contents. Apple bruises located beneath the surface peel with the depth of about 0–1.2 mm could be effectively detected by the SFDI technique. This study, to our knowledge, made the first effort to investigate the light penetration depth in apple tissues by SFDI, which would provide useful information for enhanced detection of early-stage apple bruising by selecting the appropriate spatial frequency.
Physicochemical and Rheological Characteristics of Commercial and Monovarietal Wheat Flours from Peru
Authors: Best Ivan , Portugal Alan , Casimiro-Gonzales Sandra , Aguilar Luis , Ramos-Escudero Fernando , Honorio Zoila , Rojas-Villa Naysha , Benavente Carlos , Muñoz Ana María
Published: April 2023

In Peru, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the main resources in the food industry; however, due to its low harvested area, it is the second most imported cereal. The quality of wheat flour was studied to verify that it has desirable characteristics for the preparation of bakery products. The quality of commercial and monovarietal wheat flours was assessed by measuring their physicochemical and rheological parameters, as well as the gluten content and wheat protein fractions. Eight commercial wheat flours and four monovarietal wheat flours (Barba negra, Candeal, Espelta, and Duro) from Peru were evaluated. Commercial wheat flours presented significantly higher levels of protein and gluten index compared to monovarietal wheat flours (p < 0.05). Between both groups, no significant differences were observed in the content of wet and dry gluten. Interestingly, monovarietal wheat flours presented a higher percentage of gliadins and albumins/globulins, as well as lower levels of glutenin, compared to commercial wheat flours (p < 0.05). According to the logistic regression models, the baking strength (W) was the most important parameter to evaluate the quality of commercial and monovarietal wheat flours. Our results show that monovarietal wheat flours show a lower quality compared to commercial wheat flours.
Exploring Dynamics and Hopf Bifurcation of a Fractional-Order Bertrand Duopoly Game Model Incorporating Both Nonidentical Time Delays
Authors: Li Ying , Li Peiluan , Xu Changjin , Xie Yuke
Published: April 2023

In order to maximize benefits, oligopolistic competition often occurs in contemporary society. Establishing the mathematical models to reveal the law of market competition has become a vital topic. In the current study, on the basis of the earlier publications, we propose a new fractional-order Bertrand duopoly game model incorporating both nonidentical time delays. The dynamics involving existence and uniqueness, non-negativeness, and boundedness of solution to the considered fractional-order Bertrand duopoly game model are systematacially analyzed via the Banach fixed point theorem, mathematical analysis technique, and construction of an appropriate function. Making use of different delays as bifurcation parameters, several sets of new stability and bifurcation conditions ensuring the stability and the creation of Hopf bifurcation of the established fractional-order Bertrand duopoly game model are acquired. By virtue of a proper definite function, we set up a new sufficient condition that ensures globally asymptotically stability of the considered fractional-order Bertrand duopoly game model. The work reveals the impact of different types of delays on the stability and Hopf bifurcation of the proposed fractional-order Bertrand duopoly game model. The study shows that we can adjust the delay to achieve price balance of different products. To confirm the validity of the derived criteria, we put computer simulation into effect. The derived conclusions in this article are wholly new and have great theoretical value in administering companies.
Effectiveness of and Inequalities in COVID-19 Epidemic Control Strategies in Hungary: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wasnik Rahul Naresh , Vincze Ferenc , Földvári Anett , Pálinkás Anita , Sándor János
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Before the mass vaccination, epidemiological control measures were the only means of containing the COVID-19 epidemic. Their effectiveness determined the consequences of the COVID-19 epidemic. Our study evaluated the impact of sociodemographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors on patient-reported epidemiological control measures. Methods: A nationwide representative sample of 1008 randomly selected adults were interviewed in person between 15 March and 30 May 2021. The prevalence of test-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection was 12.1%, of testing was 33.7%, and of contact tracing among test-confirmed infected subjects was 67.9%. The vaccination coverage was 52.4%. Results: According to the multivariable logistic regression models, the occurrence of infection was not influenced by sociodemographic and lifestyle factors or by the presence of chronic disease. Testing was more frequent among middle-aged adults (aOR = 1.53, 95% CI 1.10–2.13) and employed adults (aOR = 2.06, 95% CI 1.42–3.00), and was more frequent among adults with a higher education (aORsecondary = 1.93, 95% CI 1.20–3.13; aORtertiary = 3.19, 95% CI 1.81–5.63). Contact tracing was more frequently implemented among middle-aged (aOR41-7y = 3.33, 95% CI 1.17–9.45) and employed (aOR = 4.58, 95% CI 1.38–15.22), and those with chronic diseases (aOR = 5.92, 95% CI 1.56–22.47). Positive correlation was observed between age groups and vaccination frequency (aOR41-70y = 2.94, 95% CI 2.09–4.15; aOR71+y = 14.52, 95% CI 7.33–28.77). Higher than primary education (aORsecondary = 1.69, 95% CI 1.08–2.63; aORtertiary = 4.36, 95% CI 2.46–7.73) and the presence of a chronic disease (aOR = 2.58, 95% CI 1.75–3.80) positively impacted vaccination. Regular smoking was inversely correlated with vaccination (aOR = 0.60; 95% CI 0.44–0.83). Conclusions: The survey indicated that testing, contact tracing, and vaccination were seriously influenced by socioeconomic position; less so by chronic disease prevalence and very minimally by lifestyle. The etiological role of socioeconomic inequalities in epidemic measure implementation likely generated socioeconomic inequality in COVID-19-related complication and death rates.
YOLO-Based Deep Learning Model for Pressure Ulcer Detection and Classification
Authors: Aldughayfiq Bader , Ashfaq Farzeen , Jhanjhi N. Z. , Humayun Mamoona
Published: April 2023

Pressure ulcers are significant healthcare concerns affecting millions of people worldwide, particularly those with limited mobility. Early detection and classification of pressure ulcers are crucial in preventing their progression and reducing associated morbidity and mortality. In this work, we present a novel approach that uses YOLOv5, an advanced and robust object detection model, to detect and classify pressure ulcers into four stages and non-pressure ulcers. We also utilize data augmentation techniques to expand our dataset and strengthen the resilience of our model. Our approach shows promising results, achieving an overall mean average precision of 76.9% and class-specific mAP50 values ranging from 66% to 99.5%. Compared to previous studies that primarily utilize CNN-based algorithms, our approach provides a more efficient and accurate solution for the detection and classification of pressure ulcers. The successful implementation of our approach has the potential to improve the early detection and treatment of pressure ulcers, resulting in better patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
Online Game Speculative Experiences and Problem Gambling among Adolescents in South Korea: Dual Mediation Effects of Irrational Beliefs and Gambling Attitude
Authors: Lee Jae-Kyoung , Lee Soo-Bi
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to test the effect of online gaming speculative experiences on problem gambling via irrational beliefs in and attitudes toward gambling. Data were obtained from the Korea Center on Gambling Problems, and participants comprised 386 adolescents (female 168, male 218) who currently play online games and have experience with betting games or gambling. The main findings are that (i) online game speculative experience positively influenced gambling attitude (B = 0.172, p < 0.001); (ii) online game speculative experience positively influenced irrational beliefs (B = 0.194, p < 0.001); (iii) online game speculative experience (B = 0.140, p < 0.001), gambling attitude (B = 0.294, p < 0.01), and irrational beliefs (B = 0.689, p < 0.001) was positively correlated with problem gambling. Also, the mediation effect was statistically significant. Policy and practical measures to assess the impact of gaming facilitating speculative experience and for intervening in gambling problems in adolescents are discussed. The results suggest the need to screen, educate, and provide short-term interventions to adolescents with online game speculative experience. Strict assessments, regulation, and surveillance of speculative elements can preserve online gaming as a healthy play culture for the adolescents.
Testosterone Usage Leading to Pulmonary Embolisms and Deep Vein Thrombosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Menakuru Sasmith R. , Atta Mona , Dhillon Vijaypal S. , Salih Ahmed
Published: April 2023

Androgen usage has widely increased in recent times via prescribed and unprescribed means. Testosterone is a popular androgen taken by both athletes and the general population. While there is some evidence of androgens being thrombogenic, we report on a 19-year-old male who presented to the hospital after the usage of testosterone for one month, leading to the development of multiple pulmonary emboli and deep vein thrombosis. The authors hope to elucidate the relationship between testosterone usage and thrombosis formation.
Digital Technologies and the Transformation of Archaeological Labor
Authors: Poehler Eric E.
Published: April 2023

The use of computers and other digital technologies have had a long history in classical archaeology, but in the last decade, advances in software and especially hardware have begun to transform the way that archaeologists work in the field. This paper explores three examples of this phenomenon from my perspective as co-director, director, or assistant director of three different research projects between 2010 and 2019. These are the Pompeii Quadriporticus Project (2010–2013), the Pompeii Artistic Landscape Project (PALP, 2018–present), and the Tharros Archaeological Research Project (TARP, 2019–present). As a whole, these projects trace one history of digital technology’s impact on the organization of archaeological labor, from intensifying work due to increased efficiency, to increasing the pressure due to newly available data sources, and to reorganizing the in-field procedures that at once takes advantage of efficiencies and frees up labor at the trench edge.
Editorial of the Special Issue “Neurobiological Mechanisms Implicated in Stress-Related Psychiatric Disorders”
Authors: Marinova Zoya
Published: April 2023

Mental disorders may seriously impair the quality of life of affected individuals and cause a significant public health burden [...]
Coupling Pyrazine to Dithiocarbonates for Molybdopterin Model Ligands—Indispensable Tin
Authors: Bandaru Siva Sankar Murthy , Schindler Claudia , Wenzek Felix , Schulzke Carola
Published: April 2023

Several synthetic cross-coupling procedures were (re-)evaluated for the tethering of pyrazine to dithiocarbonates. The resultant species constitute pro-ligands and can be converted by removal of the C=O moiety into ene-dithiolate ligand systems that model molybdopterin. The coupling of 2-iodopyrazine with the stannylated dithiocarbonate units mediated by copper(I)-thiophene-2-carboxylate in stoichiometric equivalents proved to be the most efficient and the only reliable route to the targeted compounds. Single-crystal X-ray structural analysis confirmed the final structures of two pursued pyrazine-derived dithiocarbonates and those of two intermediates.
Effects of Urban Green and Blue Space on the Diffusion Range of PM2.5 and PM10 Based on LCZ
Authors: Jiang Ruiyuan , Xie Changkun , Man Zihao , Zhou Rebecca , Che Shengquan
Published: April 2023

Urban green and blue space (GBS) significantly impacts the diffusion range of atmospheric particulate matter. By determining the diffusion distance of atmospheric particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) in Shanghai, combined with the GBS landscape pattern index, this study completed a stepwise multiple regression equation and correlation analysis to explore the relationship between the morphological structure and spatial configuration of GBS on the diffusion distance of atmospheric particles. The results show that the landscape shape index (LSI) and the number of patches (NP) of GBS have a significant positive correlation with the diffusion distance of atmospheric particles, while the coefficient of the percent of landscape (PLAND), as a key influencing factor, has a negative correlation. The mean Euclidean nearest neighbor distance (ENN_MN) and splitting index (SPLIT) in the spatial configuration metrics positively affect the diffusion distance. Studies have proved that complex and dispersed GBS will lead to the weakening of its purification ability, thereby increasing the pollution range of atmospheric particulate matter. The order of the influence of different GBS types on the diffusion distance of atmospheric particles is as follows: DT > BS > LP > ST > WA. Therefore, high-density GBS with simple shapes and concentrated distribution should be considered in the future construction of new cities.
A New Multi-Attribute Decision Making Method for Overvalued Star Ratings Adjustment and Its Application in New Energy Vehicle Selection
Authors: Yu Sumin , Zhang Xiaoting , Du Zhijiao , Chen Yanyan
Published: April 2023

Under the global consensus of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, new energy vehicles have gradually become mainstream, driven by the dual crises regarding the atmospheric environment and energy security. When choosing new energy vehicles, consumers prefer to browse the post-purchase reviews and star ratings of various new energy vehicles on platforms. However, it is easy for consumers to become lost in the high-star text reviews and mismatched reviews. To solve the above two issues, this study selected nine new energy vehicles and used a multi-attribute decision making method to rank the vehicles. We first designed adjustment rules based on star ratings and text reviews to cope with the issue of high star ratings but negative text reviews. Secondly, we classified consumers and recommended the optimal alternative for each type of consumer to deal with the issue of mismatched demands between review writers and viewers. Finally, this study compared the ranking results with the sales charts of the past year to verify the feasibility of the proposed method initially. The feasibility and stability of the proposed method were further verified through comparative and sensitivity analyses.
On the Mishou Theorem for Zeta-Functions with Periodic Coefficients
Authors: Balčiūnas Aidas , Jasas Mindaugas , Macaitienė Renata , Šiaučiūnas Darius
Published: April 2023

Let a={am} and b={bm} be two periodic sequences of complex numbers, and, additionally, a is multiplicative. In this paper, the joint approximation of a pair of analytic functions by shifts (ζnT(s+iτ;a),ζnT(s+iτ,α;b)) of absolutely convergent Dirichlet series ζnT(s;a) and ζnT(s,α;b) involving the sequences a and b is considered. Here, nT→∞ and nT≪T2 as T→∞. The coefficients of these series tend to am and bm, respectively. It is proved that the set of the above shifts in the interval [0,T] has a positive density. This generalizes and extends the Mishou joint universality theorem for the Riemann and Hurwitz zeta-functions.
An Optimization of Home Delivery Services in a Stochastic Modeling with Self and Compulsory Vacation Interruption
Authors: Selvakumar Subramanian , Jeganathan Kathirvel , Srinivasan Krishnasamy , Anbazhagan Neelamegam , Lee Soojeong , Joshi Gyanendra Prasad , Doo Ill Chul
Published: April 2023

This study presents and discusses the home delivery services in stochastic queuing-inventory modeling (SQIM). This system consists of two servers: one server manages the inventory sales processes, and the other server provides home delivery services at the doorstep of customers. Based on the Bernoulli schedule, a customer served by the first server may opt for a home delivery service. If any customer chooses the home delivery option, he hands over the purchased item for home delivery and leaves the system immediately. Otherwise, he carries the purchased item and leaves the system. When the delivery server returns to the system after the last home delivery service and finds that there are no items available for delivery, he goes on vacation. Such a vacation of a delivery server is to be interrupted compulsorily or voluntarily, according to the prefixed threshold level. The replenishment process is executed due to the (s,Q) reordering policy. The unique solution of the stationary probability vector to the finite generator matrix is found using recursive substitution and the normalizing condition. The necessary and sufficient system performance measures and the expected total cost of the system are computed. The optimal expected total cost is obtained numerically for all the parameters and shown graphically. The influence of parameters on the expected number of items that need to be delivered, the probability that the delivery server is busy, and the expected rate at which the delivery server’s self and compulsory vacation interruptions are also discussed.
Asymptotics of Regular and Irregular Solutions in Chains of Coupled van der Pol Equations
Authors: Kashchenko Sergey
Published: April 2023

Chains of coupled van der Pol equations are considered. The main assumption that motivates the use of special asymptotic methods is that the number of elements in the chain is sufficiently large. This allows moving from a discrete system of equations to the use of a continuity argument and obtaining an integro-differential boundary value problem as the initial model. In the study of the behaviour of all its solutions in a neighbourhood of the equilibrium state, infinite-dimensional critical cases arise in the problem of the stability of solutions. The main results include the construction of special families of quasi-normal forms, namely non-linear boundary value problems of either Schrödinger or Ginzburg–Landau type. Their solutions make it possible to determine the main terms of the asymptotic expansion of both regular and irregular solutions to the original system. The main goal is the study of chains with diffusion- and advective-type couplings, as well as fully connected chains.
Reply to De Luca et al. Comment on “Marra et al. Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma to the Soft Tissue 27 Years after Radical Nephrectomy: A Case Report. Medicina 2023, 59, 150”
Authors: Alfano Carmine , Marra Caterina , Pentangelo Paola , Ceccaroni Alessandra , Troisi Donato , Losco Luigi
Published: April 2023

We appreciated the comments of De Luca and colleagues [...]
Mono-, Bis-, and Tris-Chelate Zn(II) Complexes with Imidazo[1,5-a]pyridine: Luminescence and Structural Dependence
Authors: Cerrato Valerio , Volpi Giorgio , Priola Emanuele , Giordana Alessia , Garino Claudio , Rabezzana Roberto , Diana Eliano
Published: April 2023

New mono-, bis-, and tris-chelate Zn(II) complexes have been synthesized starting from different Zn(II) salts and employing a fluorescent 1,3-substituted-imidazo[1,5-a]pyridine as a chelating ligand. The products have been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction; mass spectrometry; and vibrational spectroscopy. The optical properties have been investigated to compare the performances of mono-, bis-, and tris-chelate forms. The collected data (in the solid state and in solution) elucidate an important modification of the ligand conformation upon metal coordination; which is responsible for a notable increase in the optical performance. An intense modification of the emission quantum yield along the series in the solid state is observed comparing mono-, bis-, and tris-chelate adducts; independently from the anionic ligand introduced by ionic exchange.
The Role of MMP-9 and MMP-9 Inhibition in Different Types of Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Li Zhenshengnan , Wei Jia , Chen Bowen , Wang Yaoqi , Yang Shuai , Wu Kehui , Meng Xianying
Published: April 2023

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), one of the most investigated and studied biomarkers of the MMPs family, is a zinc-dependent proteolytic metalloenzyme whose primary function is degrading the extracellular matrix (ECM). It has been proved that MMP-9 expression elevates in multiple pathological conditions, including thyroid carcinoma. MMP-9 has a detectable higher level in malignant or metastatic thyroid tumor tissues than in normal or benign tissues and acts as an additional marker to distinguish different tumor stages because of its close correlations with clinical features, such as lymph node metastasis, TNM stage, tumor size and so on. Natural and non-natural MMP-9 inhibitors suppress its expression, block the progression of diseases, and play a role in therapy consequently. MMP-9 inhibitory molecules also assist in treating thyroid tumors by suppressing the proliferation, invasion, migration, metastasis, viability, adhesion, motility, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and other risk factors of different thyroid cancer cells. In a word, discovering and designing MMP-9 inhibitors provide great therapeutic effects and promising clinical values in various types of thyroid carcinoma.
Application of Photocatalysis and Sonocatalysis for Treatment of Organic Dye Wastewater and the Synergistic Effect of Ultrasound and Light
Authors: Wang Guowei , Cheng Hefa
Published: April 2023

Organic dyes play vital roles in the textile industry, while the discharge of organic dye wastewater in the production and utilization of dyes has caused significant damage to the aquatic ecosystem. This review aims to summarize the mechanisms of photocatalysis, sonocatalysis, and sonophotocatalysis in the treatment of organic dye wastewater and the recent advances in catalyst development, with a focus on the synergistic effect of ultrasound and light in the catalytic degradation of organic dyes. The performance of TiO2-based catalysts for organic dye degradation in photocatalytic, sonocatalytic, and sonophotocatalytic systems is compared. With significant synergistic effect of ultrasound and light, sonophotocatalysis generally performs much better than sonocatalysis or photocatalysis alone in pollutant degradation, yet it has a much higher energy requirement. Future research directions are proposed to expand the fundamental knowledge on the sonophotocatalysis process and to enhance its practical application in degrading organic dyes in wastewater.
Synthesis of 5,6-Dihydropyrazolo[5,1-a]isoquinolines through Tandem Reaction of C,N-Cyclic Azomethine Imines with α,β-Unsaturated Ketones
Authors: Yun Young Jae , Kim Sung-Gon
Published: April 2023

An innovative and efficient approach has been developed for the synthesis of 5,6-dihydropyrazolo[5,1-a]isoquinolines. This one-pot tandem reaction involves the reaction of C,N-cyclic azomethine imines with α,β-unsaturated ketones, using K2CO3 as the base and DDQ as the oxidant. The process results in functionalized 5,6-dihydropyrazolo[5,1-a]isoquinolines with good yields. This convenient one-step method encompasses a tandem [3 + 2]-cycloaddition, detosylation, and oxidative aromatization.
Recent Progress in Photoresponsive Biomaterials
Authors: Di Martino Miriam , Sessa Lucia , Diana Rosita , Piotto Stefano , Concilio Simona
Published: April 2023

Photoresponsive biomaterials have garnered increasing attention recently due to their ability to dynamically regulate biological interactions and cellular behaviors in response to light. This review provides an overview of recent advances in the design, synthesis, and applications of photoresponsive biomaterials, including photochromic molecules, photocleavable linkers, and photoreactive polymers. We highlight the various approaches used to control the photoresponsive behavior of these materials, including modulation of light intensity, wavelength, and duration. Additionally, we discuss the applications of photoresponsive biomaterials in various fields, including drug delivery, tissue engineering, biosensing, and optical storage. A selection of significant cutting-edge articles collected in recent years has been discussed based on the structural pattern and light-responsive performance, focusing mainly on the photoactivity of azobenzene, hydrazone, diarylethenes, and spiropyrans, and the design of smart materials as the most targeted and desirable application. Overall, this review highlights the potential of photoresponsive biomaterials to enable spatiotemporal control of biological processes and opens up exciting opportunities for developing advanced biomaterials with enhanced functionality.
Essential Oil Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Oregano and Marjoram as Affected by Different Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Sarfaraz Danial , Rahimmalek Mehdi , Sabzalian Mohammad R. , Gharibi Shima , Matkowski Adam , Szumny Antoni
Published: April 2023

Oregano and marjoram are important aromatic spices in the food industry, as well as medicinal plants with remarkable antioxidant properties. Despite their popularity, little is known about treatments that would influence the antioxidant capacity of essential oils. In this study, different spectra of LED light, namely blue, red, white, blue-red, and natural ambient light as a control, were applied to assess the essential oil content, composition, flavonoid, phenolic, and antioxidant capacity of oregano and marjoram. GC-MS analysis revealed thymol, terpinen-4-ol, sabinene, linalool, p-cymene, and γ-terpinene as the main compounds. In oregano, the thymol content ranged from 11.91% to 48.26%, while in marjoram it varied from 17.47% to 35.06% in different samples. In oregano and marjoram, the highest phenolic contents were in blue (61.26 mg of tannic acid E/g of DW) and in white (65.18 mg of TAE/g of DW) light, respectively, while blue-red illumination caused the highest increase in total flavonoids. The antioxidant activity of oregano and marjoram extract was evaluated using two food model systems, including DPPH and β-carotene bleaching. The highest antioxidant capacity was obtained in control light in oregano and blue-red light in marjoram. The results provide information on how to improve the desired essential oil profile and antioxidant capacity of extracts for industrial producers.
Iridium-Catalyzed Synthesis of Chiral 1,2,3-Triazoles Units and Precise Construction of Stereocontrolled Oligomers
Authors: Zhang Xueyan , Yu Tian , Ding Shengtao
Published: April 2023

Iridium-catalyzed azide-thioalkyne cycloaddition reaction (IrAAC) has proved to be a powerful tool for the synthesis of fully substituted 1,2,3-triazole compounds with exclusive regioselectivity. Here we report its successful use in the precise construction of stereocontrolled oligomers that have great potential in diverse applications. Starting with the azide derived from L-prolinol and different functionalized thioalkynes, chiral 1,2,3-triazole units were fabricated with high efficiency under the IrAAC condition, which were further assembled into stereocontrolled oligotriazoles through metal-free exponential growth strategies. The structure and uniformity of these oligomers were well identified by 1H NMR, size-exclusion chromatography, and mass spectrometry, the stereoregularity of which were studied through circular dichroism and circular polarized luminescence analysis.
Armeria maritima (Mill.) Willd. Flower Hydromethanolic Extract for Cucurbitaceae Fungal Diseases Control
Authors: Sánchez-Hernández Eva , Martín-Ramos Pablo , Navas-Gracia Luis Manuel , Martín-Gil Jesús , Garcés-Claver Ana , Flores-León Alejandro , González-García Vicente
Published: April 2023

The cliff rose (Armeria maritima), like other halophytes, has a phenolics-based antioxidant system that allows it to grow in saline habitats. Provided that antioxidant properties are usually accompanied by antimicrobial activity, in this study we investigated the phytochemicals present in a hydromethanolic extract of A. maritima flowers and explored its antifungal potential. The main phytocompounds, identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, were: hexadecanoic acid, octadecanoic acid, 9-octadecenoic acid, 3-(3,4-dihydroxy-phenyl)-acrylic acid ethyl ester, and benzeneacetaldehyde. The antifungal activity of the extract and its main constituents—alone and in combination with chitosan oligomers—was tested against six pathogenic taxa associated with soil-borne diseases of plant hosts in the family Cucurbitaceae: Fusarium equiseti, F. oxysporum f. sp. niveum, Macrophomina phaseolina, Neocosmospora falciformis, N. keratoplastica, and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. In in vitro tests, EC90 effective concentrations in the 166−865 μg·mL−1 range were obtained for the chitosan oligomers–A. maritima extract conjugate complexes, lower than those obtained for fosetyl-Al and azoxystrobin synthetic fungicides tested for comparison purposes, and even outperforming mancozeb against F. equiseti. In ex situ tests against S. sclerotiorum conducted on artificially inoculated cucumber slices, full protection was achieved at a dose of 250 μg·mL−1. Thus, the reported results support the valorization of A. maritima as a source of biorationals for Cucurbitaceae pathogens protection, suitable for both organic and conventional agriculture.
Guidelines to Analyze Preclinical Studies Using Perinatal Derivatives
Authors: Pires Ana Salomé , Bollini Sveva , Botelho Maria Filomena , Lang-Olip Ingrid , Ponsaerts Peter , Balbi Carolina , Lange-Consiglio Anna , Fénelon Mathilde , Mojsilović Slavko , Berishvili Ekaterine , Cremonesi Fausto , Gazouli Maria , Bugarski Diana , Gellhaus Alexandra , Kerdjoudj Halima , Schoeberlein Andreina
Published: April 2023

The last 18 years have brought an increasing interest in the therapeutic use of perinatal derivatives (PnD). Preclinical studies used to assess the potential of PnD therapy include a broad range of study designs. The COST SPRINT Action (CA17116) aims to provide systematic and comprehensive reviews of preclinical studies for the understanding of the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of PnD in diseases and injuries that benefit from PnD therapy. Here we describe the publication search and data mining, extraction, and synthesis strategies employed to collect and prepare the published data selected for meta-analyses and reviews of the efficacy of PnD therapies for different diseases and injuries. A coordinated effort was made to prepare the data suitable to make statements for the treatment efficacy of the different types of PnD, routes, time points, and frequencies of administration, and the dosage based on clinically relevant effects resulting in clear increase, recovery or amelioration of the specific tissue or organ function. According to recently proposed guidelines, the harmonization of the nomenclature of PnD types will allow for the assessment of the most efficient treatments in various disease models. Experts within the COST SPRINT Action (CA17116), together with external collaborators, are doing the meta-analyses and reviews using the data prepared with the strategies presented here in the relevant disease or research fields. Our final aim is to provide standards to assess the safety and clinical benefit of PnD and to minimize redundancy in the use of animal models following the 3R principles for animal experimentation.
A Deep-Learning Neural Network Approach for Secure Wireless Communication in the Surveillance of Electronic Health Records
Authors: Diao Zhifeng , Sun Fanglei
Published: April 2023

The electronic health record (EHR) surveillance process relies on wireless security administered in application technology, such as the Internet of Things (IoT). Automated supervision with cutting-edge data analysis methods may be a viable strategy to enhance treatment in light of the increasing accessibility of medical narratives in the electronic health record. EHR analysis structured data structure code was used to obtain data on initial fatality risk, infection rate, and hazard ratio of death from EHRs for prediction of unexpected deaths. Patients utilizing EHRs in general must keep in mind the significance of security. With the rise of the IoT and sensor-based Healthcare 4.0, cyber-resilience has emerged as a need for the safekeeping of patient information across all connected devices. Security for access, amendment, and storage is cumulatively managed using the common paradigm. For improving the security of surveillance in the aforementioned services, this article introduces an endorsed joint security scheme (EJSS). This scheme recognizes the EHR utilization based on the aforementioned processes. For each process, different security measures are administered for sustainable security. Access control and storage modification require relative security administered using mutual key sharing between the accessing user and the EHR database. In this process, the learning identifies the variations in different processes for reducing adversarial interruption. The federated learning paradigm employed in this scheme identifies concurrent adversaries in the different processes initiated at the same time. Differentiating the adversaries under each process strengthens mutual authentication using individual attributes. Therefore, individual surveillance efficiency through log inspection and adversary detection is improved for heterogeneous and large-scale EHR databases.
Improvement of Assembly Manufacturing Process through Value Stream Mapping and Ranked Positional Weight: An Empirical Evidence from the Defense Industry
Authors: Achmadi Fandi , Harsanto Budi , Yunani Akhmad
Published: April 2023

This study aims to improve the assembly manufacturing process to solve the workload imbalances by combining value stream mapping (VSM) and ranked positional weight (RPW). An empirical study was conducted in a defense manufacturing firm located in Indonesia. The study specifically focused on 155 components and 56 tasks distributed among 43 assembly workstations in one weapon product. The results of the analysis showed a significant reduction in the total cycle time, from 5121 s (85.35 min) to 3620 s (60.33 min), or a decrease of 29%. Additionally, the study found improvements in the balance of the assembly line as measured by balance delay, line efficiency, and smoothness index performance indicators. The application of VSM and RPW in this study is unique in the context of the defense industry, as it provides empirical analysis on cycle time and assembly line balance, which is rarely studied. The results of this study contribute to the advancement of literature in the field and provide valuable insights for other organizations in the defense industry and other manufacturing industries. By improving the efficiency and balance of the weapon assembly line, this study has the potential to increase productivity and reduce waste.