bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acoustical Characterization and Modeling of Sustainable Posidonia Fibers
Authors: Pompoli Francesco
Published: April 2023

This article presents the results of an acoustic characterization of fibers obtained from Posidonia Balls (scientific name: Aegagropiles), produced by a marine plant (Posidonia oceanica) that is widespread in the Mediterranean Sea and can be found on beaches in large quantities, particularly following storm surges. The aim of this research is to evaluate the possible use of these fibers as eco-sustainable sound-absorbing materials and to define an acoustic model for the optimization of sound-absorbing panels made from these fibers. Experimental tests were conducted to measure airflow resistivity and sound absorption for different densities of loose fiber samples. From these experimental tests, the five physical parameters of the Johnson-Champoux-Allard model were calculated to obtain an analytical formulation of the acoustic behavior of the fibers depending on their density. To the author’s knowledge, this is the first time that an article has been published on acoustic data relating to the sound-absorbing performance of loose Posidonia oceanica fibers and that an analytical model has been presented that allows for the acoustical design of panels of different thicknesses and densities made with this material. An interesting aspect of this material is that the lignin fibers are ready for acoustic application due to the natural cleaning process of the waves and salt water. Furthermore, the methodology consists of a hybrid method between the experimental characterization of some parameters (i.e., different densities) and the numerical inversion of the acoustic data for other parameters. This is an effective solution that has rarely been adopted in other studies on sustainable materials.
Neutron Activation Analysis for Geochemical Characterization of Rocks from Gold Mines in Egypt
Authors: Badawy Wael M. , Mitwalli Mohamed , Dmitriev Andrey Yu. , Chepurchenko Olesia , Saleh Gehad , El-Farrash Ali , Bulavin Maksim , Morsi Tarek , Sallah Mohammed
Published: April 2023

The present work was carried out to determine the elemental composition of granitoid rock samples from three gold mines (Sukari, Hamash, and Um Hagalig) in the South-eastern part of Egypt and quantification of the extent of the elemental enrichment. A total of 37 samples from the mines were subjected to neutron activation analysis, and the mass fractions of the elements were measured in mg/kg. The results show a dominance of K (76.9%), Fe (11.0%), Ca (8.7%), and Na (3.1%) for Sukari mine; Na (31.2%), Ca (28.5%), K (23.1%), and Fe (9.9%) for the Hamash mine; and for the Um Hagalig mine Na (31.1%), K (22%), Ca (21.7%), and Fe (20.8%). In addition, significant mass fractions of uranium, thorium and rare earth elements were found in Hamash and Um Hagalig. The average mass fractions of U in the investigated areas are measured to be 59.7, 48.2, and 30.8 mg/kg for Hamash, Sukary, and Um Hagalig, respectively. Furthermore, the average mass fractions of Th were significant and measured to be 3905, 1673, and 7 mg/kg for Hamash, Um Hagalig, and Sukary, respectively. Multiple ratio indicators and discrimination diagrams were used to better understand the origin of the elements in the samples studied. The indicators suggest that the provenance of the elements is mainly from metavolcanic and volcanic rocks. The findings should make an important contribution to the study of ores and minerals and thus represent an important area for environmental studies.
A Method to Measure Positron Beam Polarization Using Optically Polarized Atoms
Authors: Machacek Joshua R. , Hodgman Sean , Buckman Stephen , Gay T. J.
Published: April 2023

We outline an experimental technique for measuring the degree of polarization of a positron beam using an optically pumped, spin-polarized Rb target. The technique is based on the production and measurement of the ortho- and para-positronium fractions through positron collisions with the Rb atoms as a function of their polarization. Using realistic estimates for the cross sections and experimental parameters involved, we estimate that a polarization measurement with an uncertainty of 3% of the measured value can be achieved in an hour.
L-Shell Photoionization of Magnesium-like Ions with New Results for Cl5+
Authors: Mosnier Jean-Paul , Kennedy Eugene T. , Bizau Jean-Marc , Cubaynes Denis , Guilbaud Ségolène , Blancard Christophe , Hasoğlu M. Fatih , Gorczyca Thomas W.
Published: April 2023

This study reports on the absolute photoionization cross sections for the magnesium-like Cl5+ ion over the 190–370 eV photon energy range, corresponding to the L-shell (2s and 2p subshells) excitation regime. The experiments were performed using the Multi-Analysis Ion Apparatus (MAIA) on the PLéIADES beamline at the SOLEIL synchrotron radiation storage ring facility. Single and double ionization ion yields, produced by photoionization of the 2p subshell of the Cl5+ ion from the 2p63s2 1S0 ground state and the 2p63s3p 3P0,1,2 metastable levels, were observed, as well as 2s excitations. Theoretical calculations of the photoionization cross sections using the Multi-Configuration Dirac-Fock and R-matrix approaches were carried out, and the results were compared with the experimental data. The Cl5+ results were examined within the overall evolution of L-shell excitation for the early members of the Mg-like isoelectronic sequence (Mg, Al+, Si2+, S4+, Cl5+). Characteristic photon energies for P3+ were estimated by interpolation.
Mitochondrial Dynamics as Potential Modulators of Hormonal Therapy Effectiveness in Males
Authors: Errico Andrea , Vinco Sara , Ambrosini Giulia , Dalla Pozza Elisa , Marroncelli Nunzio , Zampieri Nicola , Dando Ilaria
Published: April 2023

Worldwide the incidence of andrological diseases is rising every year and, together with it, also the interest in them is increasing due to their strict association with disorders of the reproductive system, including impairment of male fertility, alterations of male hormones production, and/or sexual function. Prevention and early diagnosis of andrological dysfunctions have long been neglected, with the consequent increase in the incidence and prevalence of diseases otherwise easy to prevent and treat if diagnosed early. In this review, we report the latest evidence of the effect of andrological alterations on fertility potential in both young and adult patients, with a focus on the link between gonadotropins’ mechanism of action and mitochondria. Indeed, mitochondria are highly dynamic cellular organelles that undergo rapid morphological adaptations, conditioning a multitude of aspects, including their size, shape, number, transport, cellular distribution, and, consequently, their function. Since the first step of steroidogenesis takes place in these organelles, we consider that mitochondria dynamics might have a possible role in a plethora of signaling cascades, including testosterone production. In addition, we also hypothesize a central role of mitochondria fission boost on the decreased response to the commonly administrated hormonal therapy used to treat urological disease in pediatric and adolescent patients as well as infertile adults.
Clinical Review on the Management of Breast Cancer Visceral Crisis
Authors: Benvenuti Chiara , Gaudio Mariangela , Jacobs Flavia , Saltalamacchia Giuseppe , De Sanctis Rita , Torrisi Rosalba , Santoro Armando , Zambelli Alberto
Published: April 2023

Visceral crisis is a life-threatening clinical condition requiring urgent treatment and accounts for 10–15% of new advanced breast cancer diagnoses, mainly hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor 2 negative. As its clinical definition is an open topic with nebulous criteria and much room for subjective interpretation, it poses a challenge for daily clinical practice. International guidelines recommend combined chemotherapy as first-line treatment for patients with visceral crisis, but with modest results and a very poor prognosis. Visceral crisis has always been a common exclusion criterion in breast cancer trials, and the available evidence mainly comes from limited retrospective studies which are not sufficient to draw solid conclusions. The outstanding efficacy of innovative drugs, such as CDK4/6 inhibitors, questions the role of chemotherapy in this setting. In the lack of clinical reviews, we aim to critically discuss the management of visceral crisis, advocating future treatment perspectives for this challenging condition.
Activated Natural Killer Cell Inoculation Alleviates Fibrotic Liver Pathology in a Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Cirrhosis Mouse Model
Authors: Oh Ho Rim , Ko Min Kyung , Son Daehee , Ki Young Wook , Kim Shin-Il , Lee Seok-Yong , Kang Keon Wook , Cheon Gi Jeong , Hwang Do Won , Youn Hyewon
Published: April 2023

Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a detrimental role in liver fibrosis progression. Natural killer (NK) cells are known to selectively recognize abnormal or transformed cells via their receptor activation and induce target cell apoptosis and, therefore, can be used as a potential therapeutic strategy for liver cirrhosis. In this study, we examined the therapeutic effects of NK cells in the carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver cirrhosis mouse model. NK cells were isolated from the mouse spleen and expanded in the cytokine-stimulated culture medium. Natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D)-positive NK cells were significantly increased after a week of expansion in culture. The intravenous injection of NK cells significantly alleviated liver cirrhosis by reducing collagen deposition, HSC marker activation, and macrophage infiltration. For in vivo imaging, NK cells were isolated from codon-optimized luciferase-expressing transgenic mice. Luciferase-expressing NK cells were expanded, activated and administrated to the mouse model to track them. Bioluminescence images showed increased accumulation of the intravenously inoculated NK cells in the cirrhotic liver of the recipient mouse. In addition, we conducted QuantSeq 3′ mRNA sequencing-based transcriptomic analysis. From the transcriptomic analysis, 33 downregulated genes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and 41 downregulated genes involved in the inflammatory response were observed in the NK cell-treated cirrhotic liver tissues from the 1532 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). This result indicated that the repetitive administration of NK cells alleviated the pathology of liver fibrosis in the CCl4-induced liver cirrhosis mouse model via anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Taken together, our research demonstrated that NK cells could have therapeutic effects in a CCl4-induced liver cirrhosis mouse model. In particular, it was elucidated that extracellular matrix genes and inflammatory response genes, which were mainly affected after NK cell treatment, could be potential targets.
Biological Role of Zinc in Liver Cirrhosis: An Updated Review
Authors: Ullah Muhammad Ikram , Alameen Ayman Ali Mohammed , Al-Oanzi Ziad H. , Eltayeb Lienda Bashier , Atif Muhammad , Munir Muhammad Usman , Ejaz Hasan
Published: April 2023

Liver cirrhosis is a complication usually due to the consequence of persistent chronic liver disease. It is associated with different mechanisms, including hypoalbuminemia, impaired amino acid turnover, and micronutrient deficiencies. Consequently, cirrhotic patients can develop progressive complications like ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The liver is a vital organ that regulates the different metabolic pathways and transportation of trace elements. Zn is an indispensable micronutrient trace element involved in its crucial functions in cellular metabolic activity. Zn mediates its action by binding to a wide range of proteins; therefore, it imparts numerous biological effects, including cellular division, differentiation, and growth. It is also involved in critical processes for the biosynthesis of structural proteins and regulation of transcription factors and acts as a co-factor for the various enzymatic processes. As the liver is a significant regulator of Zn metabolism, its abnormalities lead to Zn deficiency, which has consequences on cellular, endocrine, immune, sensory, and skin dysfunctions. Conversely, Zn deficiency may modify the functions of hepatocytes and immune responses (acute phase protein production) in inflammatory liver diseases. This review has concisely stated the evolving indication of the critical role of Zn in biological processes and complications associated with liver cirrhosis pathogenesis due to Zn deficiency.
The Plant Leaf: A Biomimetic Resource for Multifunctional and Economic Design
Authors: Roth-Nebelsick Anita , Krause Matthias
Published: April 2023

As organs of photosynthesis, leaves are of vital importance for plants and a source of inspiration for biomimetic developments. Leaves are composed of interconnected functional elements that evolved in concert under high selective pressure, directed toward strategies for improving productivity with limited resources. In this paper, selected basic components of the leaf are described together with biomimetic examples derived from them. The epidermis (the “skin” of leaves) protects the leaf from uncontrolled desiccation and carries functional surface structures such as wax crystals and hairs. The epidermis is pierced by micropore apparatuses, stomata, which allow for regulated gas exchange. Photosynthesis takes place in the internal leaf tissue, while the venation system supplies the leaf with water and nutrients and exports the products of photosynthesis. Identifying the selective forces as well as functional limitations of the single components requires understanding the leaf as an integrated system that was shaped by evolution to maximize carbon gain from limited resource availability. These economic aspects of leaf function manifest themselves as trade-off solutions. Biomimetics is expected to benefit from a more holistic perspective on adaptive strategies and functional contexts of leaf structures.
Women Workforces’ Satisfaction with Personal Protective Equipment: A Case of the Australian Construction Industry
Authors: Oo Bee Lan , Lim Benson Teck Heng
Published: April 2023

Despite the anecdotal evidence that construction women workforces have faced difficulties in accessing adequate and properly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE), there have been very few studies addressing their experiences and satisfaction with PPE. This study aimed to provide an overview of women workforces’ satisfaction with PPE in the Australian construction industry. The specific research objectives were to: (i) examine their satisfaction regarding the functional, expressive and aesthetic (FEA) need attributes of PPE and (ii) investigate factors affecting their overall satisfaction with PPE. Data were collected using an online questionnaire survey. The results indicated a rather low satisfaction level among the respondents for all the thirteen FEA need attributes of their PPE. A regression model showed that their overall satisfaction with PPE was significantly affected by their experiences of PPE use (i.e., the need for alterations or adjustments to PPE, adequacy of training for PPE use, the perceived impact of ill-fitting PPE on work productivity) and satisfaction with FEA need attributes but not their demographical factors. The research findings call for action among construction training organizations, PPE designers and manufacturers and construction employers to recognise and address the low satisfaction level for PPE use among women workforces in the industry.
Metal-Doped Mesoporous MnO2-CeO2 Catalysts for Low-Temperature Pre-Oxidation of NO to NO2 in Fast SCR Process
Authors: Kuo Chun-Nan , Li Cheng-Shiuan , Lai Yu-Lun , Yen Shao-I
Published: April 2023

Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) is an effective system for treating nitrogen oxides (NOx; mainly NO), and fast SCR requires the equimolar reactants of NO and NO2. This study focused on catalysts for oxidizing 50% of NO to NO2. A series of catalysts composed of a variety of components, such as mesoporous mMnO2-nCeO2 as carrier catalysts (m:n = 9:1 and 7:3) and transition metals (e.g., Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Cr), were synthesized and characterized using N2 adsorption, in situ XRD, TEM, and XPS. All samples had a mesoporous structure with pore size around 8 nm. XPS results demonstrated that addition of cerium ion increased the surface area and provided oxygen vacancy due to the formation of Ce3+ within the structure. NO oxidation activity was tested using a feed (205~300 ppm NO and 6% O2) that simulated typical flue gas conditions. Doped mesoporous mMnO2–nCeO2 has higher NO oxidation activity than pristine mMnO2–nCeO2. The doped mMnO2-nCeO2 catalyzed 50% of NO to NO2 at between 140 and 200 °C resulting in an equivalent amount of NO and NO2. Among the transition metals, Cu, Ni, Co, Fe, and Cr have the highest to lowest oxidation activity, respectively. The precatalytic oxidation of NO can potentially be combined with the current SCR system without changes to existing equipment and can be applied to the exhaust gas treatment for de-NOx.
New Findings: Hindlimb Unloading Causes Nucleocytoplasmic Ca2+ Overload and DNA Damage in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Yang Huajian , Wang Huiping , Pan Fangyang , Guo Yuxi , Cao Liqi , Yan Wenjing , Gao Yunfang
Published: April 2023

Disuse atrophy of skeletal muscle is associated with a severe imbalance in cellular Ca2+ homeostasis and marked increase in nuclear apoptosis. Nuclear Ca2+ is involved in the regulation of cellular Ca2+ homeostasis. However, it remains unclear whether nuclear Ca2+ levels change under skeletal muscle disuse conditions, and whether changes in nuclear Ca2+ levels are associated with nuclear apoptosis. In this study, changes in Ca2+ levels, Ca2+ transporters, and regulatory factors in the nucleus of hindlimb unloaded rat soleus muscle were examined to investigate the effects of disuse on nuclear Ca2+ homeostasis and apoptosis. Results showed that, after hindlimb unloading, the nuclear envelope Ca2+ levels ([Ca2+]NE) and nucleocytoplasmic Ca2+ levels ([Ca2+]NC) increased by 78% (p < 0.01) and 106% (p < 0.01), respectively. The levels of Ca2+-ATPase type 2 (Ca2+-ATPase2), Ryanodine receptor 1 (RyR1), Inositol 1,4,5-tetrakisphosphate receptor 1 (IP3R1), Cyclic ADP ribose hydrolase (CD38) and Inositol 1,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (IP3) increased by 470% (p < 0.001), 94% (p < 0.05), 170% (p < 0.001), 640% (p < 0.001) and 12% (p < 0.05), respectively, and the levels of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger 3 (NCX3), Ca2+/calmodulin dependent protein kinase II (CaMK II) and Protein kinase A (PKA) decreased by 54% (p < 0.001), 33% (p < 0.05) and 5% (p > 0.05), respectively. In addition, DNase X is mainly localized in the myonucleus and its activity is elevated after hindlimb unloading. Overall, our results suggest that enhanced Ca2+ uptake from cytoplasm is involved in the increase in [Ca2+]NE after hindlimb unloading. Moreover, the increase in [Ca2+]NC is attributed to increased Ca2+ release into nucleocytoplasm and weakened Ca2+ uptake from nucleocytoplasm. DNase X is activated due to elevated [Ca2+]NC, leading to DNA fragmentation in myonucleus, ultimately initiating myonuclear apoptosis. Nucleocytoplasmic Ca2+ overload may contribute to the increased incidence of myonuclear apoptosis in disused skeletal muscle.
Trimethyl Lock Quinone-Based Organic Molecular Probes for NQO1 Sensing and Imaging
Authors: Chen Kun , Xu Shuai , Song Zhiling , Li Ke
Published: April 2023

NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase isozyme 1 (NQO1) is a flavoenzyme and involved in protection against oxidative stress and the regulation of metabolic functions, which is strongly implicated in neurodegenerative diseases and carcinogenic processes. Furthermore, NQO1 is also involved in the modes of action of redox-active drugs (e.g., antimalarials). Determining the activity and localization of NQO1 in living organisms is of great importance for early disease diagnosis and therapy. As a promising and convenient biosensing technique, trimethyl lock quinone-based organic molecular probes have been well established for the specific detection and imaging of NQO1 in living cells and in vivo. In this review, the recent progress of NQO1 probes based on organic small molecules is summarized from the perspectives of molecular design strategies, sensing mechanisms and bioimaging applications. We also elucidate the potential limitations and prospects of current NQO1 probes to further promote the development of versatile imaging tools for NQO1-related biomedical investigation.
Path Analysis of the Relationships between the Eruption Time of the First Primary Teeth and Various Factors in Twins
Authors: Birant Sinem , Veznikli Mert , Kasimoglu Yelda , Koruyucu Mine , Evren Atıf Ahmet , Seymen Figen
Published: April 2023

The timing of primary tooth eruption is critical for children’s health planning and the diagnosis of specific growth disorders. The purpose of this study is to assess the relationship between twin pairs’ birth weight, gestational age, and gender, which are indicators of prenatal factors; breast-feeding duration, which is an indicator of postnatal factors; type of delivery, which is an indicator of maternal as well as genetic factors; and age of the primary tooth. Twin children aged from 3 to 15 years who applied to the clinic for the first dental examination constituted the sample group. In this twin study, 59 monozygotic (MZ) twin pairs and 143 dizygotic (DZ) twin pairs were included. Genetic (MZ vs. DZ), maternal (type of delivery, gestational age), perinatal (birth weight, gender), and postnatal (duration of breastfeeding) information was obtained, and effects on the children’s Eruption Timing of the First Primary Tooth (ETFPT) were examined. Statistical analysis was performed using the consistent partial least squares structural equation model (robust PLSc) technique. As birth weight increased, the age at first eruption became younger, but this change was different between MZ and DZ twins (p < 0.05). While the age at first tooth eruption was older in identical twins who were breastfed for the first 6 months, this increase was not observed in DZ twins. The mean of ETFPT was calculated as 7.31 months in MZ twins and 6.75 months in DZ twins. The effect of breastfeeding and birth weight on ETFPT may differ according to zygosity in twins. MZ twins may tend to take longer to experience the eruption of their first primary teeth.
Columbite–Tantalite from Northern Scandinavia (Kaustinen, Kolmozero) Pegmatites: An Optical and Spectroscopic Properties
Authors: Huber Miłosz , Kamiński Daniel , Maciołek Urszula
Published: April 2023

LCT (lithium–cesium–tantalum) pegmatites from the Kaustinen and Kolmozero regions contain columbite–tantalite mineralization, which has been presented in this study. Crystal structure, Raman microscopy, and optical property analyses of these minerals were performed. As a result of the structural studies and micro-area analyses, it was determined that these minerals in the pegmatites in question constitute a solid solution with numerous Mn-Fe and Nb-Ta substitutions within a single crystal. The ratio between Mn-Fe and Nb-Ta can change from crystal to crystal, which makes it impossible to find precise stechiometry between these ions. The crystallization conditions of these minerals were also determined by studying the associations of other rock-forming minerals and accessory minerals in the discussed rocks.
Functionalization and Coordination Effects on the Structural Chemistry of Pendant Arm Derivatives of 1,4,7-trithia-10-aza-cyclododecane ([12]aneNS3)
Authors: Caltagirone Claudia , Aragoni Maria Carla , Arca Massimiliano , Blake Alexander John , Demartin Francesco , Garau Alessandra , Podda Enrico , Pop Alexandra , Lippolis Vito , Silvestru Cristian
Published: April 2023

The effect of different pendant arms on the structural chemistry of the 1,4,7-trithia-10-aza-cyclododecane ([12]aneNS3) macrocycle is discussed in relation to the coordination chemistry of all known functionalized derivatives of [12]aneNS3, which have been structurally characterized.
Salivary Protein and Electrolyte Profiles during Primary Teeth Eruption: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ahmadian Mina , Maleki Kambakhsh Sara , Einollahi Nahid , Babazadeh Saber , Tofangchiha Maryam , D’Amato Giuseppe , Patini Romeo
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to assess the qualitative changes in the saliva during the process of primary teeth eruption. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 147 children from 2 to 48 months, of which 49 were in group A (no erupted primary teeth), 53 were in group B (at least one active erupting primary tooth), and 45 were in group C (eruption of all 20 primary teeth was completed). Salivary proteins were evaluated by sodium dodecyl sulfate electrophoresis with polyacrylamide gel, while the concentrations of salivary sodium, potassium, chloride, and calcium ions were evaluated by ion selective electrodes. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and Bonferroni tests (alpha = 0.05). The concentration of proteins with molecular weights of 20–30 KDa was significantly higher in group A, and it gradually decreased with age. The concentration of proteins with molecular weights of 50–60 KDa in group B was significantly lower than those of groups A and C. The calcium ion concentration in group A was significantly higher than that of the other groups. The concentration of potassium ions was minimal in group C. The proteins and electrolyte profiles of the subjects’ saliva changed in the process of primary tooth eruption. The highest concentrations of proteins such as statherin, histatin, P-B peptide, and cystatin and the lowest concentrations of proteins such as amylase were present in group B.
Antigingivitis, Desensitizing, and Antiplaque Effects of Alkaline Toothpastes: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Novozhilova Nina , Andreeva Elena , Polyakova Maria , Makeeva Irina , Sokhova Inna , Doroshina Vladlena , Zaytsev Alexandr , Babina Ksenia
Published: April 2023

Gingivitis is a widespread disease commonly associated with dentin hypersensitivity, that, in turn, may complicate routine dental care, leading to plaque accumulation. We aimed to assess the antigingivitis, desensitizing, and antiplaque effects of a fluoride-containing (TWF) alkaline toothpaste and a fluoride-free (TW) alkaline toothpaste. Eighty-four consenting patients aged 20–25 years with diagnosed gingivitis and dentin hypersensitivity (DH) were recruited in this double-blind, parallel-group study and randomly divided into two groups (each n = 42). Eighty-two patients completed the entire study protocol. The outcomes were assessed after 4 weeks of intervention. A significant improvement in gingival condition was found according to the modified gingival index, with effect sizes of 0.99 [CI95%: 0.52–1.46] and 1.71 [CI95%: 1.18–2.24], and the gingival bleeding index, with effect sizes of 3.17 [CI95%: 2.39–3.94] and 2.64 [CI95%: 1.96–3.32] in the TW and TWF groups, respectively. DH also decreased in both groups, with a significantly greater reduction in the TWF group (effect sizes of 3.28 [CI95%: 2.51–4.04] and 3.10 [CI95%: 2.40–3.80] according to the visual analog scale and Schiff scale, respectively). No side effects were registered. In conclusion, the use of alkaline toothpaste provided a significant reduction in gingival inflammation and bleeding, DH, and oral hygiene after 4 weeks of daily use in young adults. Trial Registration: NCT0562376. Funding: none.
Central Bank Independence: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Vasicek Osvald , Uhrova Natalie , Dimitriou Janickova Lenka , Wroblowsky Tomas , Navratil Boris
Published: April 2023

Central bank independence (CBI) has long been considered a key aspect of effective monetary policy, as it allows central banks to make decisions free from political interference. However, the global financial crisis of 2007–2008 and recent events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and armed conflict in Ukraine have threatened CBI. This article aims to examine the impact of these events on CBI in OECD member countries, both on a de jure and de facto level, using a variety of indicators. The results suggest that CBI has largely remained unchanged in most countries, but there is disturbing evidence of political interference in CBI in the Republic of Türkiye.
Secondary School Students’ Interest in STEM Careers in Qatar
Authors: Sellami Abdel Latif , Al-Rakeb Noof Abdulhadi , Tok Evren
Published: April 2023

In light of the high demand for skilled professionals and talents internationally, STEM skills carry special significance in today’s competitive economy. Drawing on the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) and insights gleaned from the extant literature, our study sought to investigate the factors that are likely to predict students’ interest in a STEM-related career in Qatar. An online survey was administered online via computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI) and paper-and-Pencil Interviewing (PAPI) during the Spring term of 2021. Data was gathered from a sample of 1505 secondary school students, including 278 in grade 11 and 764 in grade 12) students in Qatar. Findings concluded from a two-level mixed-effects logistic regression revealed statistically significant differences based on students’ age, nationality, and support from the family. Non-Qatari (expatriate) students attending private schools are significantly more likely to display interest in STEM-related careers. Additionally, taking a STEM course and teachers’ use of experiments emerged as additional significant factors that affect student interest in a STEM-related career in Qatar. Our results point to the need for instruction to incorporate and emphasize practical activities to encourage students to engage in real-life STEM learning.
Clustering Algorithms for Enhanced Trustworthiness on High-Performance Edge-Computing Devices
Authors: Lapegna Marco , Mele Valeria , Romano Diego
Published: April 2023

Trustworthiness is a critical concern in edge-computing environments as edge devices often operate in challenging conditions and are prone to failures or external attacks. Despite significant progress, many solutions remain unexplored. An effective approach to this problem is the use of clustering algorithms, which are powerful machine-learning tools that can discover correlations within vast amounts of data. In the context of edge computing, clustering algorithms have become increasingly relevant as they can be employed to improve trustworthiness by classifying edge devices based on their behaviors or detecting attack patterns from insecure domains. In this context, we develop a new hybrid clustering algorithm for computing devices that is suitable for edge computing model-based infrastructures and that can categorize nodes based on their trustworthiness. This algorithm is thoroughly assessed and compared to two computing systems equipped with high-end GPU devices with respect to performance and energy consumption. The evaluation results highlight the feasibility of designing intelligent sensor networks to make decisions at the data-collection points, thereby, enhancing the trustworthiness and preventing attacks from unauthorized sources.
SS-BERT: A Semantic Information Selecting Approach for Open-Domain Question Answering
Authors: Fu Xuan , Du Jiangnan , Zheng Hai-Tao , Li Jianfeng , Hou Cuiqin , Zhou Qiyu , Kim Hong-Gee
Published: April 2023

Open-Domain Question Answering (Open-Domain QA) aims to answer any factoid questions from users. Recent progress in Open-Domain QA adopts the “retriever-reader” structure, which has proven effective. Retriever methods are mainly categorized as sparse retrievers and dense retrievers. In recent work, the dense retriever showed a stronger semantic interpretation than the sparse retriever. When training a dual-encoder dense retriever for document retrieval and reranking, there are two challenges: negative selection and a lack of training data. In this study, we make three major contributions to this topic: negative selection by query generation, data augmentation from negatives, and a passage evaluation method. We prove that the model performs better by focusing on false negatives and data augmentation in the Open-Domain QA passage rerank task. Our model outperforms other single dual-encoder rerankers over BERT-base and BM25 by 0.7 in MRR@10, achieving the highest Recall@50 and the max Recall@1000, which is restricted by the BM25 retrieval results.
LW-ViT: The Lightweight Vision Transformer Model Applied in Offline Handwritten Chinese Character Recognition
Authors: Geng Shiyong , Zhu Zongnan , Wang Zhida , Dan Yongping , Li Hengyi
Published: April 2023

In recent years, the transformer model has been widely used in computer-vision tasks and has achieved impressive results. Unfortunately, these transformer-based models have the common drawback of having many parameters and a large memory footprint, causing them to be difficult to deploy on mobiles as lightweight convolutional neural networks. To address these issues, a Vision Transformer (ViT) model, named the lightweight Vision Transformer (LW-ViT) model, is proposed to reduce the complexity of the transformer-based model. The model is applied to offline handwritten Chinese character recognition. The design of the LW-ViT model is inspired by MobileViT. The lightweight ViT model reduces the number of parameters and FLOPs by reducing the number of transformer blocks and the MV2 layer based on the overall framework of the MobileViT model. The number of parameters and FLOPs for the LW-ViT model was 0.48 million and 0.22 G, respectively, and it ultimately achieved a high recognition accuracy of 95.8% on the dataset. Furthermore, compared to the MobileViT model, the number of parameters was reduced by 53.8%, and the FLOPs were reduced by 18.5%. The experimental results show that the LW-ViT model has a low number of parameters, proving the correctness and feasibility of the proposed model.
Pruning- and Quantization-Based Compression Algorithm for Number of Mixed Signals Identification Network
Authors: Shen Weiguo , Wang Wei , Zhu Jiawei , Zhou Huaji , Wang Shunling
Published: April 2023

Source number estimation plays an important role in successful blind signal separation. At present, the application of machine learning allows the processing of signals without the time-consuming and complex work of manual feature extraction. However, the convolutional neural network (CNN) for processing complex signals has some problems, such as incomplete feature extraction and high resource consumption. In this paper, a lightweight source number estimation network (LSNEN), which can achieve a robust estimation of the number of mixed complex signals at low SNR (signal-to-noise ratio), is studied. Compared with other estimation methods, which require manual feature extraction, our network can realize the extraction of the depth feature of the original signal data. The convolutional neural network realizes complex mapping of modulated signals through the cascade of multiple three-dimensional convolutional modules. By using a three-dimensional convolution module, the mapping of complex signal convolution is realized. In order to deploy the network in the mobile terminal with limited resources, we further propose a compression method for the network. Firstly, the sparse structure network is obtained by the weight pruning method to accelerate the speed of network reasoning. Then, the weights and activation values of the network are quantified at a fixed point with the method of parameter quantization. Finally, a lightweight network for source number estimation was obtained, which was compressed from 12.92 MB to 3.78 MB with a compression rate of 70.74%, while achieving an accuracy of 94.4%. Compared with other estimation methods, the lightweight source number estimation network method proposed in this paper has higher accuracy, less model space occupation, and can realize the deployment of the mobile terminal.
Robust Beamforming Design for IRS-Assisted Downlink Multi-User MISO-URLLC in an IIoT Scenario
Authors: Ye Changqing , Jiang Hong , Luo Zhongqiang , Deng Liping
Published: April 2023

Intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRS) have recently been regarded as having potential for supporting multi-user (MU) multiple-input single-output (MISO) ultra-reliable and low-latency communication (URLLC) by creating favorable wireless communication links in the industrial IoT (IIoT) scenario. Hence, we studied the joint robust design of a beamformer at a central controller (CC) and phase shifters at the IRS for minimizing the transmit power consumption based on perfect channel state information (CSI) and imperfect CSI, respectively. The design was formulated as a non-convex optimization problem, also taking into account the quality-of-service (QoS) demands of the actuator, unit-modulus constraints of the IRS, and the robustness against the impact of CSI imperfection. Subsequently, we proposed a computationally efficient iterative algorithm to obtain a suboptimal solution by exploiting the penalty method and the successive convex approximation (SCA) for perfect CSI, while the penalty method, S-procedure, and SCA were adopted for imperfect CSI. Finally, our simulation results revealed that (1) the required transmit power consumption for URLLC was significantly reduced by employing the proposed IRS instead of conventional wireless communication without IRS; and (2) the proposed algorithm was robust and effective for the beamforming design.
A Robust Feature Extraction Method for Underwater Acoustic Target Recognition Based on Multi-Task Learning
Authors: Li Daihui , Liu Feng , Shen Tongsheng , Chen Liang , Zhao Dexin
Published: April 2023

Target classification and recognition have always been complex problems in underwater acoustic signal processing because of noise interference and feature instability. In this paper, a robust feature extraction method based on multi-task learning is proposed, which provides an effective solution. Firstly, an MLP-based network model suitable for underwater acoustic signal processing is proposed to optimize feature extraction. Then, multi-task learning is deployed on the model in hard parameter-sharing so that the model can extract anti-noise interference features and embed prior feature extraction knowledge. In the model training stage, the simultaneous training method enables the model to improve the robustness and representation of classification features with the knowledge of different tasks. Furthermore, the optimized classification features are sent to the classification network to complete target recognition. The proposed method is evaluated by the dataset collected in the real environment. The results show that the proposed method effectively improves recognition accuracy and maintains high performance under different noise levels, which is better than popular methods.
INTS-Net: Improved Navigator-Teacher-Scrutinizer Network for Fine-Grained Visual Categorization
Authors: Jin Huilong , Xie Jiangfan , Zhao Jia , Zhang Shuang , Wen Tian , Liu Song , Li Ziteng
Published: April 2023

Fine-grained image recognition, as a significant branch of computer vision, has become prevalent in various applications in the real world. However, this image recognition is more challenging than general image recognition due to the highly localized and subtle differences in special parts. Up to now, many classic models, including Bilinear Convolutional Neural Networks (Bilinear CNNs), Destruction and Construction Learning (DCL), etc., have emerged to make corresponding improvements. This paper focuses on optimizing the Navigator-Teacher-Scrutinizer Network (NTS-Net). The structure of NTS-Net determines its strong ability to capture subtle information areas. However, research finds that this advantage will lead to a bottleneck of the model’s learning ability. During the training process, the loss value of the training set approaches zero prematurely, which is not conducive to later model learning. Therefore, this paper proposes the INTS-Net model, in which the Stochastic Partial Swap (SPS) method is flexibly added to the feature extractor of NTS-Net. By injecting noise into the model during training, neurons are activated in a more balanced and efficient manner. In addition, we obtain a speedup of about 4.5% in test time by fusing batch normalization and convolution. Experiments conducted on CUB-200-2011 and Stanford cars demonstrate the superiority of INTS-Net.
Comparison of the Flow around Circular and Rectangular Emergent Cylinders with Subcritical and Supercritical Conditions
Authors: Dissanayaka Kannangara D. C. R. , Tanaka Norio
Published: April 2023

There are multiple initiatives aimed at strengthening coastal communities against tsunami disaster risks, such as growing vegetation belts, construction of embankments, moats, and different hybrid alternatives. To find a solution for strengthening the coastal buildings themselves, we firstly reviewed the flow phenomena around a single emergent (circular and rectangular) cylinder (case C1), which was considered as a piloti-type column under different Froude conditions, and evaluated the formation of surface bow-waves, hydraulic jump detachment, and wall-jet-like bow-waves. Secondly, the flow characteristics were investigated under the same Froude conditions with side-by-side two-cylinder (case C2) and four-cylinder (case C4) arrays in an open channel. Surface bow-wave length (LBw) increased by 7–12% over the rectangular cylinders (RCs) compared to the circular cylinders (CCs) with a subcritical flow. For the supercritical flow with a 1/200 bed slope, hydraulic jump detachment was observed in relation to the Froude number. The observed length of the hydraulic jump detachment (Ljump) varied between 3.1–8.5% and 4.2–12.9% for the CCs and RCs in the supercritical flow with a 1/200 bed slope. In addition, the wall-jet-like bow-wave height (hjet) over the CCs was increased by 37% and 29% compared to the RCs with a supercritical flow and zero bed slope (orifice-type flow). For case C4, a hydraulic jump was observed for the supercritical flow over the horizontal channel bed. Finally, empirical equations were defined concerning the geometrical shape and arrangement based on the experiment data for the single and side-by-side configurations of the cylinders to validate the height of the wall-jet-like bow-wave as the most critical flow property.
Thin Film Evaporation Modeling of the Liquid Microlayer Region in a Dewetting Water Bubble
Authors: Lakew Ermiyas , Sarchami Amirhosein , Giustini Giovanni , Kim Hyungdae , Bellur Kishan
Published: April 2023

Understanding the mechanism of bubble growth is crucial to modeling boiling heat transfer and enabling the development of technological applications, such as energy systems and thermal management processes, which rely on boiling to achieve the high heat fluxes required for their operation. This paper presents analyses of the evaporation of “microlayers”, i.e., ultra-thin layers of liquid present beneath steam bubbles growing at the heated surface in the atmospheric pressure nucleate of boiling water. Evaporation of the microlayer is believed to be a major contributor to the phase change heat transfer, but its evolution, spatio-temporal stability, and impact on macroscale bubble dynamics are still poorly understood. Mass, momentum, and energy transfer in the microlayer are modeled with a lubrication theory approach that accounts for capillary and intermolecular forces and interfacial mass transfer. The model is embodied in a third-order nonlinear film evolution equation, which is solved numerically. Variable wall-temperature boundary conditions are applied at the solid–liquid interface to account for conjugate heat transfer due to evaporative heat loss at the liquid–vapor interface. Predictions obtained with the current approach compare favorably with experimental measurements of microlayer evaporation. By comparing film profiles at a sequence of times into the ebullition cycle of a single bubble, likely values of evaporative heat transfer coefficients were inferred and found to fall within the range of previously reported estimates. The result suggests that the coefficients may not be a constant, as previously assumed, but instead something that varies with time during the ebullition cycle.
Applicability of LC-QToF and Microscopical Tools in Combating the Sophisticated, Economically Motivated Adulteration of Poppy Seeds
Authors: Avula Bharathi , Katragunta Kumar , Adams Sebastian John , Wang Yan-Hong , Chittiboyina Amar G. , Khan Ikhlas A.
Published: April 2023

Morphine and codeine are the two principal opiates found in the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) and are therapeutically used for pain management. Poppy seeds with low opiates are primarily used for culinary purposes due to their nutritional and sensory attributes. Intentional adulteration of poppy seeds is common, often combined with immature, less expensive, exhausted, or substituted with morphologically similar seeds, viz., amaranth, quinoa, and sesame. For a safer food supply chain, preventive measures must be implemented to mitigate contamination or adulteration. Moreover, the simultaneous analysis of P. somniferum and its adulterants is largely unknown. Pre- and post-processing further complicate the alkaloid content and may pose a significant health hazard. To address these issues, two independent methods were investigated with eight botanically verified and fifteen commercial samples. Microscopical features were established for the authenticity of raw poppy seeds. Morphine, codeine, and thebaine quantities ranged from 0.8–223, 0.2–386, and 0.1–176 mg/kg, respectively, using LC-QToF. In most cases, conventional opiates have a higher content than papaverine and noscapine. The analytical methodology provided a chemical profile of 47 compounds that can be effectively applied to distinguish poppy seeds from their adulterants and may serve as an effective tool to combat ongoing adulteration.
The Impact of High-Pressure Homogenization and Thermal Processing on the Functional Properties of De-Fatted Chickpea Flour Dispersion
Authors: Huang Zhigang , Zhang Jiayi , Zhang Guoliang , Gao Fei , Bi Chonghao
Published: April 2023

Defatted chickpea flour (DCF), a rich source of protein and starch, is frequently utilized in the food industry. Two crucial methods of modifying food materials are high-pressure homogenization (HPH) and heat treatment (HT). This study investigates the effect of co-treatment (HPH-HT) on the particle size, rheological behavior, and thermal characteristics of DCF suspensions. The results indicate that both HPH and HT can result in a more uniform distribution of particle size in the suspensions. The effect of HPH on G′ was observed to be reductionary, whereas HT increased it. Nevertheless, the HPH-HT treatment further amplified G′ (notably in high-concentration DCF), which demonstrates that the solid properties of DCF are improved. The apparent viscosity of the suspensions increased with individual and combined treatments, with the HPH-HT treatment of DCF12% exhibiting the most significant increase (from 0.005 to 9.5 Pa·s). The rheological behavior of DCF8% with HPH-HT treatment was found to be comparable to that of DCF12% treated only with HT. In conclusion, HPH-HT treatment shows a synergistic impact of HPH and HT on the rheological properties of DCF suspensions, however, it has limited effect on the particle size distribution and freeze–thaw stability.