bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Integrative Study of Mycobiome in Different Habitats from a High Arctic Region: Diversity, Distribution, and Functional Role
Authors: Chen Xiufei , Yan Dong , Yu Liyan , Zhang Tao
Published: April 2023

In the Arctic ecosystems, fungi are crucial for interactions between soil and plants, the cycling of nutrients, and the transport of carbon. To date, no studies have been conducted to thoroughly examine the mycobiome and its functional role in various habitats of the High Arctic region. The aim was to unravel the mycobiome in the nine habitats (i.e., soil, lichen, vascular plant, moss, freshwater, seawater, marine sediment, dung, and marine alga) in the Ny-Ålesund Region (Svalbard, High Arctic) using a high-throughput sequencing approach. A total of 10,419 ASVs were detected. Among them, 7535 ASVs were assigned to unidentified phyla, while the remaining 2884 ASVs were assigned to 11 phyla, 33 classes, 81 orders, 151 families, 278 genera, and 261 species that were known. The distribution of the mycobiome was driven by habitat specificity, indicating that habitat filtering is a crucial factor influencing the fungal assemblages at a local scale in this High Arctic region. Six growth forms and 19 fungal guilds were found. The ecological guild (e.g., lichenized, ectomycorrhizal) and growth form (e.g., yeast, thallus photosynthetic) varied significantly among various habitats. In addition, the occurrence of 31 fungal species that are considered to be potential pathogens was determined. These results will increase our understanding of fungal diversity and its functional significance in this distinctive High Arctic area and thereby establish the groundwork for prediction about how the mycobiome will alter in various environments as a result of anticipated climate change.
An Analysis of the Use of Accounting Information by Portuguese SMEs
Authors: Santos Ana Catarina , Pires Rui , Alves Maria-Ceu
Published: April 2023

Despite the significant economic contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), little is known about the extent to which they make use of accounting information (AI). Although AI is considered one of the main sources of information for SMEs, many continue to ignore its potential, considering that this information is only intended to meet tax obligations. The literature stresses the influence of several factors on AI usage. However, the conclusions of the studies are fragmented, contradictory, and not very enlightening. Following these studies, the purpose of this paper is to explore which characteristics of decision makers, companies, and accounting services influence the importance and use of AI in SMEs. Data were collected through an online questionnaire survey applied to Portuguese SMEs. The findings show that the decision makers’ level of education, as well as their educational background, influence the importance they attribute to AI. It has also been found that smaller companies and SMEs that use outsourced accounting services make the least use of AI. Therefore, in addition to providing empirical evidence on the importance and use of AI, a debate that has been mainly theoretical, and on the importance of SMEs in any economy, this paper aims to raise awareness of the need to further study the decision-making process in such firms.
A Review of Blockchain Technology Adoption in the Tourism Industry from a Sustainability Perspective
Authors: Prados-Castillo Juan F. , Guaita Martínez José Manuel , Zielińska Agnieszka , Gorgues Comas Dolores
Published: April 2023

The deployment of Blockchain technology in the tourism industry is already becoming a reality with the gradual emergence of innovative business models. At its core is the promise of improving the efficiency of the tourism service value chain and enhancing the quality of the service provided to the end customer. This paper analyses research trends focused on using Blockchain technology in tourism. The aim is to determine how this technology impacts the tourism sector and its sustainability. A systematic review, descriptive bibliometric analysis, and network analysis based on co-authorship, co-citation, and keyword analysis criteria, among others, have been used. The results reveal that the subject matter analysed is generating a growing trend in academic research in the fields of sustainable management and supply chain efficiency. The activities in the tourism sector that are incorporating this technology to a greater extent are those related to the areas of marketing, logistics, and smart business models, according to the data extracted from the analysis. This technology already enables the application of solutions that predict and promote tourist behaviour based on sustainable behaviour and consumption habits, generating value for the different stakeholders.
Analysis of Influencing Factors of Farmers’ Homestead Revitalization Intention from the Perspective of Social Capital
Authors: Guo Bin , Yuan Lei , Lu Mengyuan
Published: April 2023

Revitalizing idle rural residential bases is essential for improving the utilization rate of residential resources, activating pastoral land resources assets, increasing farmers’ property income, and stimulating rural development vitality. Social capital is one of the essential social resources owned by farmers, which is closely related to rural social governance and farmers’ daily lives and plays an indispensable role in revitalizing residential land. Based on the theory of social capital and the survey data of 316 farm households in Shaanxi Province in 2022, this study first empirically analyzes the influencing factors of social capital and its constituent dimensions on farm households’ willingness to revitalize their home-steads using a Logit regression model, and then empirically analyzes the hierarchical structure relationship among the influencing factors using an ISM model. The results of the study show that: (1) Social capital and its three constituent dimensions of social network (“Contact with relatives, neighbors, and families” and “Contact with village committee staff”), social trust (“Trust in friends and relatives” and “Trust in village committee and other organizations”), and social participation (“Participation in meetings of village committees and other organizations”) have significant positive effects on farmers’ willingness to revitalize their residential land. (2) There are differences in the effects of different dimensions of social capital on farmers’ willingness to revitalize their homesteads: social trust as a deep-seated cause affects farmers’ social networks and social participation, which in turn affects farmers’ knowledge of homestead revitalization policies and ultimately farmers’ willingness to revitalize their homesteads. Based on the findings of the study, to improve farmers’ willingness to revitalize their homestead bases, government departments should base their efforts on the social capital characteristics of farmers, increase the cultivation of farmers’ social capital, and strengthen the publicity of the work of revitalizing homestead bases and related policies.
Socioeconomic Determinants and Perceptions of Smallholder Farmers towards Agroforestry Adoption in Northern Irrigated Plain, Pakistan
Authors: Ahmad Shahzad , Xu Haiping , Ekanayake E. M. B. P.
Published: April 2023

Amid the epoch of global overpopulation, the agroforestry system can intervene as a novel practice that can safeguard agricultural sustainability, provide a means of livelihood, yield ecological benefits, and contribute to household food security. However, the adoption of sustained agroforestry practices requires an understanding of both farmers’ personal characteristics and perceived statuses, constituting a difficult task to anticipate, analyze, and visualize. To this end, it is crucial to understand and identify the most significant factors driving the adoption of agroforestry. This research attempts to examine the determinants and psychological drivers of smallholder farmers’ intention to plant trees on farmland and the factors that may discourage them from doing so. The conceptual framework of the study was developed based on the theory of planned behavior. We draw on survey data from 400 smallholder farmers in a northern irrigated plain of Pakistan. A binary logistic regression model was employed to explore how socio-psychological drivers influence farmers’ decision to adopt agroforestry practices. The study results reveal that 60.5% of the respondents prefer to adopt agroforestry practices. The results from a logit estimation showed that socio-economic variables such as family size, land ownership, subsidies, livestock rearing, sources of energy, and total income had a significant positive influence on the planting of trees on farmland, while age had a negative influence. Moreover, runoff control and the control of heat significantly affect the perceptions of farmers regarding the adoption of agroforestry. The findings suggest that implementing policies that enhance the delivery of robust agricultural extension services and training programs for farmers could disseminate the agroforestry system countrywide, which might offer substantial benefits for farmers in the long term while maintaining environmental integrity.
Age, Experience and Language and Literacy Skills in English-Arabic Speaking Syrian Refugees
Authors: Gottardo Alexandra , Al-Janaideh Redab , Paradis Johanne , Soto-Corominas Adriana , Chen Xi , Amin Norah
Published: April 2023

Although age of acquisition (AoA) is frequently used when examining the endpoint of second language (L2) learning, it is rarely used to examine the initial phases of L2 acquisition. The present study provided a unique look at the role of AoA in early language and literacy acquisition in the L2 by a priori selecting two groups of Arabic-English speakers based on their ages, 6–8-year-olds (N = 43) and 9–13-year-olds (N = 53). These Syrian refugees were matched on English experience, having immigrated to Canada and having learned English for two years or less. Raw scores on language and literacy measures were compared across groups. The older group had higher scores on all first language (L1) variables. The groups did not differ on most L2 variables except for English word reading. Additionally, L1 and L2 variables were examined in relation to English word and pseudoword reading with different patterns of relations found for the two groups. For the younger group, phonological awareness and vocabulary were related to reading, while for the older group phonological awareness and morphological awareness were key predictors. These finding points to the unique relations among age, age of acquisition, L1 skills, and L2 language and literacy skills.
Relationship between Σ3 Boundaries, Dislocation Slip, and Plasticity in Pure Nickel
Authors: Lin Yao , Han Luyi , Wang Guangchun
Published: April 2023

This study investigated the relationship between the Σ3 boundaries, dislocation slip, and plasticity in pure nickel wires after grain boundary (GB) modification. Both quasi in situ tensile tests and simulations were employed. During plastic deformation, twins surrounded by Σ3 boundaries may exhibit a good deformation coordination. With an increase in strain, the slip systems corresponding to the maximum Schmid factor and the actual activated slip systems remain unchanged. Even sub-grains can maintain the dominant slip system of their origin matrix grains. Slip systems with slip planes (111) and (1−1−1) are the most active. Moreover, random boundaries have strong hindering effects on dislocations, and the nearby stress accumulates continuously with an increase in strain. In contrast, Σ3 boundaries demonstrate weak blocking effects and can release the nearby stress due to their unique interfacial structures, which is favorable for improving plasticity. They are more penetrable for dislocations or may react with the piled dislocations. In addition, some Σ3 boundaries can improve their geometrical compatibility factor with an increase in the strain, which enhances the deformation coordination of the grains. The research results provide a better understanding of the plasticizing mechanism for face-centered cubic (fcc) materials after grain boundary modification.
Suitableness of SLM Manufactured Turbine Blade for Aerodynamical Tests
Authors: Telega Janusz , Kaczynski Piotr , Śmiałek Małgorzata A. , Pawlowski Piotr , Szwaba Ryszard
Published: April 2023

This paper describes some insights on applicability of a Selective Laser Melting and Direct Metal Laser Sintering technology-manufactured turbine blade models for aerodynamic tests in a wind tunnel. The principal idea behind this research was to assess the possibilities of using ‘raw’ DLMS printed turbine blade models for gas-flow experiments. The actual blade, manufactured using the DLMS technology, is assessed in terms of surface quality (roughness), geometrical shape and size (outline), quality of counterbores and quality of small diameter holes. The results are evaluated for the experimental aerodynamics standpoint. This field of application imposes requirements that have not yet been described in the literature. The experimental outcomes prove the surface quality does not suffice to conduct quantitative experiments. The holes that are necessary for pressure measurements in wind tunnel experiments cannot be reduced below 1 mm in diameter. The dimensional discrepancies are on the level beyond acceptable. Additionally, the problem of ‘reversed tolerance’, with the material building up and distorting the design, is visible in elements printed with the DLMS technology. The results indicate the necessity of post-machining of the printed elements prior their experimental usage, as their features in the ‘as fabricated’ state significantly disturb the flow conditions.
A Review on the Design and Application of Compliant Mechanism-Based Fast-Tool Servos for Ultraprecision Machining
Authors: Paniselvam Vinodth , Jin Tan Nicholas Yew , Anantharajan Senthil Kumar
Published: April 2023

The compliant mechanism (CM)-based fast-tool servo (FTS) is used in ultraprecision machining contexts to produce high value products for technically advanced applications. Far too often, the FTS’ machined products are expected to be geometrically complex with minimal form tolerance and surface roughness. Since the FTS’ enclosing CM is responsible for guiding the cutting motion, its design is of utmost importance in determining the quality of the machined product. The objective of this paper is therefore to review specifically the design and structural related aspects of CM-based FTS that affects its ultraprecision machining performance. After a brief introduction, the fundamentals for designing ultraprecision capable CMs such as flexure hinge modelling, actuator selection and isolation and CM designing are comprehensively explained. In the subsequent section, the various configurations of CM-based FTSs that exist so far and their functionalities are listed. The critical factors which impact the CM-based FTS’ ultraprecision machining performance are identified and mitigating measures are provided wherever possible. Before concluding, the research questions that should be investigated for raising the state of the art of CM-based FTSs are presented as food for thought. With this review article, not only can practitioners have a clearer picture of how better to design their CMs for their FTSs, but they can also improve upon existing FTS designs from leading researchers so that products of higher quality than before can be made for the future.
Cloud-Empowered Data-Centric Paradigm for Smart Manufacturing
Authors: Dani Sourabh , Rahman Akhlaqur , Jin Jiong , Kulkarni Ambarish
Published: April 2023

In the manufacturing industry, there are claims about a novel system or paradigm to overcome current data interpretation challenges. Anecdotally, these studies have not been completely practical in real-world applications (e.g., data analytics). This article focuses on smart manufacturing (SM), proposed to address the inconsistencies within manufacturing that are often caused by reasons such as: (i) data realization using a general algorithm, (ii) no accurate methods to overcome the actual inconsistencies using anomaly detection modules, or (iii) real-time availability of insights of the data to change or adapt to the new challenges. A real-world case study on mattress protector manufacturing is used to prove the methods of data mining with the deployment of the isolation forest (IF)-based machine learning (ML) algorithm on a cloud scenario to address the inconsistencies stated above. The novel outcome of these studies was establishing efficient methods to enable efficient data analysis.
Data Science for Industry 4.0 and Sustainability: A Survey and Analysis Based on Open Data
Authors: Castro Hélio , Costa Filipe , Ferreira Tânia , Ávila Paulo , Cruz-Cunha Manuela , Ferreira Luís , Putnik Goran D. , Bastos João
Published: April 2023

In the last few years, the industrial, scientific, and technological fields have been subject to a revolutionary process of digitalization and automation called Industry 4.0. Its implementation has been successful mainly in the economic field of sustainability, while the environmental field has been gaining more attention from researchers recently. However, the social scope of Industry 4.0 is still somewhat neglected by researchers and organizations. This research aimed to study Industry 4.0 and sustainability themes using data science, by incorporating open data and open-source tools to achieve sustainable Industry 4.0. To that end, a quantitative analysis based on open data was developed using open-source software in order to study Industry 4.0 and sustainability trends. The main results show that manufacturing is a relevant value-added activity in the worldwide economy; that, foreseeing the importance of Industry 4.0, countries in America, Asia, Europe, and Oceania are incorporating technological principles of Industry 4.0 in their cities, creating so-called smart cities; and that the industries that invest most in technology are computers and electronics, pharmaceuticals, transport equipment, and IT (information technology) services. Furthermore, the G7 countries have a prevalent positive trend for the migration of technological and social skills toward sustainability, as it relates to the social pillar, and to Industry 4.0. Finally, on the global scale, a positive correlation between data openness and happiness was found.
Durability Effects of Gas Nozzle Shape on Marine Two-Stroke Dual-Fuel Engines Using Numerical Analysis
Authors: Kim Jun-Soo , Choi Jae-Hyuk
Published: April 2023

To comply with rules on air pollutants released by ships, two-stroke dual-fuel engines with liquefied natural gas (LNG) as the primary fuel have been marketed and offered to the market. However, there are still reports of gas-injection nozzles being damaged after they have been put on the market. Damage to the nozzles might result in secondary accidents in addition to worsening engine combustion conditions from improper injection. This study aims to gather fundamental information regarding the impact of different types of gas-injection nozzles on durability and to pinpoint the prerequisites for an ideal nozzle design. The results of total deformation and equivalent stress were examined for 27 nozzles that each variable was applied to in order to compare and confirm the durability by changing the nozzle shape. The cause of the nozzle temperature change according to the change in nozzle length was found to have the biggest impact on the total deformation, and it was confirmed that the effect was increased at higher temperatures. As the nozzle length increased and decreased by 2 mm, the average temperature of the nozzle increased by 47% and decreased by 53%, but the total deformation increased by 100% and decreased by 70%. It was verified that the equivalent stress was determined by the complicated interplay between the pressure inside the nozzle and turbulent kinetic energy impacted by a change in the nozzle shape. The factor that has the largest influence on the equivalent stress is the adjustment of the nozzle hole pipe angle, and the difference in equivalent stress according to this factor was found to be up to 118% and at least 44%. As a result, it has been proven that shortening the nozzle length, increasing the hole pipe angle, and enlarging the hole diameter are the most effective and expected to be used as basic data for future nozzle development.
On Mathieu-Type Series with (p,ν)-Extended Hypergeometric Terms: Integral Representations and Upper Bounds
Authors: Parmar Rakesh K. , Pogány Tibor K. , Saravanan S.
Published: April 2023

Integral form expressions are obtained for the Mathieu-type series and for their associated alternating versions, the terms of which contain a (p,ν)-extended Gauss hypergeometric function. Contiguous recurrence relations are found for the Mathieu-type series with respect to two parameters, and finally, particular cases and related bounding inequalities are established.
On Optimal Embeddings in 3-Ary n-Cubes
Authors: Rajeshwari S. , Rajesh M.
Published: April 2023

The efficiency of a graph embedding problem when simulating one interconnection network in another interconnection network is characterized by the influential parameter of wirelength. Obtaining the minimum wirelength in an embedding problem determines the quality of that embedding. In this paper, we obtained the convex edge partition of 3-Ary n-Cubes and the minimized wirelength of the embeddings of both 3-Ary n-Cubes and circulant networks.
Stochastic Dynamics of a Virus Variant Epidemic Model with Double Inoculations
Authors: Chen Hui , Tan Xuewen , Wang Jun , Qin Wenjie , Luo Wenhui
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we establish a random epidemic model with double vaccination and spontaneous variation of the virus. Firstly, we prove the global existence and uniqueness of positive solutions for a stochastic epidemic model. Secondly, we prove the threshold R0* can be used to control the stochastic dynamics of the model. If R0*<0, the disease will be extinct with probability 1; whereas if R0*>0, the disease can almost certainly continue to exist, and there is a unique stable distribution. Finally, we give some numerical examples to verify our theoretical results. Most of the existing studies prove the stochastic dynamics of the model by constructing Lyapunov functions. However, the construction of a Lyapunov function of higher-order models is extremely complex, so this method is not applicable to all models. In this paper, we use the definition method suitable for more models to prove the stationary distribution. Most of the stochastic infectious disease models studied now are second-order or third-order, and cannot accurately describe infectious diseases. In order to solve this kind of problem, this paper adopts a higher price five-order model.
Nonassociative Algebras, Rings and Modules over Them
Authors: Ludkowski Sergey Victor
Published: April 2023

The review is devoted to nonassociative algebras, rings and modules over them. The main actual and recent trends in this area are described. Works are reviewed on radicals in nonassociative rings, nonassociative algebras related with skew polynomials, commutative nonassociative algebras and their modules, nonassociative cyclic algebras, rings obtained as nonassociative cyclic extensions, nonassociative Ore extensions of hom-associative algebras and modules over them, and von Neumann finiteness for nonassociative algebras. Furthermore, there are outlined nonassociative algebras and rings and modules over them related to harmonic analysis on nonlocally compact groups, nonassociative algebras with conjugation, representations and closures of nonassociative algebras, and nonassociative algebras and modules over them with metagroup relations. Moreover, classes of Akivis, Sabinin, Malcev, Bol, generalized Cayley–Dickson, and Zinbiel-type algebras are provided. Sources also are reviewed on near to associative nonassociative algebras and modules over them. Then, there are the considered applications of nonassociative algebras and modules over them in cryptography and coding, and applications of modules over nonassociative algebras in geometry and physics. Their interactions are discussed with more classical nonassociative algebras, such as of the Lie, Jordan, Hurwitz and alternative types.
Robust Exponential Graph Regularization Non-Negative Matrix Factorization Technology for Feature Extraction
Authors: Wan Minghua , Cai Mingxiu , Yang Guowei
Published: April 2023

Graph regularized non-negative matrix factorization (GNMF) is widely used in feature extraction. In the process of dimensionality reduction, GNMF can retain the internal manifold structure of data by adding a regularizer to non-negative matrix factorization (NMF). Because Ga NMF regularizer is implemented by local preserving projections (LPP), there are small sample size problems (SSS). In view of the above problems, a new algorithm named robust exponential graph regularized non-negative matrix factorization (REGNMF) is proposed in this paper. By adding a matrix exponent to the regularizer of GNMF, the possible existing singular matrix will change into a non-singular matrix. This model successfully solves the problems in the above algorithm. For the optimization problem of the REGNMF algorithm, we use a multiplicative non-negative updating rule to iteratively solve the REGNMF method. Finally, this method is applied to AR, COIL database, Yale noise set, and AR occlusion dataset for performance test, and the experimental results are compared with some existing methods. The results indicate that the proposed method is more significant.
Optimizing Kidney Stone Prediction through Urinary Analysis with Improved Binary Particle Swarm Optimization and eXtreme Gradient Boosting
Authors: Alqahtani Abdullah , Alsubai Shtwai , Binbusayyis Adel , Sha Mohemmed , Gumaei Abdu , Zhang Yu-Dong
Published: April 2023

Globally, the incidence of kidney stones (urolithiasis) has increased over time. Without better treatment, stones in the kidneys could result in blockage of the ureters, repetitive infections in the urinary tract, painful urination, and permanent deterioration of the kidneys. Hence, detecting kidney stones is crucial to improving an individual’s life. Concurrently, ML (Machine Learning) has gained extensive attention in this area due to its innate benefits in continuous enhancement, its ability to deal with multi-dimensional data, and its automated learning. Researchers have employed various ML-based approaches to better predict kidney stones. However, there is a scope for further enhancement regarding accuracy. Moreover, studies seem to be lacking in this area. This study proposes a smart toilet model in an IoT-fog (Internet of Things-fog) environment with suitable ML-based algorithms for kidney stone detection from real-time urinary data to rectify this issue. Significant features are selected using the proposed Improved MBPSO (Improved Modified Binary Particle Swarm Optimization) to attain better classification. In this case, sigmoid functions are used for better prediction with binary values. Finally, classification is performed using the proposed Improved Modified XGBoost (Modified eXtreme Gradient Boosting) to prognosticate kidney stones. In this case, the loss functions are updated to make the model learn effectively and classify accordingly. The overall proposed system is assessed by internal comparison with DT (Decision Tree) and NB (Naïve Bayes), which reveals the efficient performance of the proposed system in kidney stone prognostication.
Research on the Application of Fuzzy Bayesian Network in Risk Assessment of Catenary Construction
Authors: Chen Yongjun , Li Xiaojian , Wang Jin , Liu Mei , Cai Chaoxun , Shi Yuefeng
Published: April 2023

The research on risk control during the construction stage of catenary is relatively limited. Based on a comprehensive analysis of the risk factors during catenary construction, this study determined the causal relationships between the risk factors and established a risk assessment model for catenary construction that analyzed the risks from a causal logic perspective. During the evaluation process, we identified six exogenous variables and twenty-one endogenous variables for risk factors in the construction of catenary based on a literature review in the field of catenary construction and expert opinions, described the cause-and-effect relationships between variables using structural equations and causal diagrams, and established a multi-level catenary construction risks structural causal model. Based on expert fuzzy evaluation and expert experience, the occurrence probability of exogenous variables and the conditional probability of endogenous variables were determined, respectively. Then, the risk assessment model of catenary construction stage based on fuzzy Bayesian Network was constructed to analyze the risk of catenary construction process. The results showed that the personal quality of the construction personnel and the sense of responsibility of the supervision unit had a great impact on the risk level of catenary construction. The findings can help construction personnel fully consider various weak points in catenary construction, thereby ensuring efficient and high-quality catenary construction.
Formal Matrix Rings: Isomorphism Problem
Authors: Krylov Piotr , Tuganbaev Askar
Published: April 2023

We consider the isomorphism problem for formal matrix rings over a given ring. Principal factor matrices of such rings play an important role in this case.
Theory of Functional Connections Extended to Fractional Operators
Authors: Mortari Daniele , Garrappa Roberto , Nicolò Luigi
Published: April 2023

The theory of functional connections, an analytical framework generalizing interpolation, was extended and applied in the context of fractional-order operators (integrals and derivatives). The extension was performed and presented for univariate functions, with the aim of determining the whole set of functions satisfying some constraints expressed in terms of integrals and derivatives of non-integer order. The objective of these expressions was to solve fractional differential equations or other problems subject to fractional constraints. Although this work focused on the Riemann–Liouville definitions, the method is, however, more general, and it can be applied with different definitions of fractional operators just by changing the way they are computed. Three examples are provided showing, step by step, how to apply this extension for: (1) one constraint in terms of a fractional derivative, (2) three constraints (a function, a fractional derivative, and an integral), and (3) two constraints expressed in terms of linear combinations of fractional derivatives and integrals.
Fourier Image Analysis of Multiphase Interfaces to Quantify Primary Atomization
Authors: Joubert Johannes C. , Wilke Daniel N. , Pizette Patrick
Published: April 2023

This work describes a post-processing scheme for multiphase flow systems to characterize primary atomization. The scheme relies on the 2D fast Fourier transform (FFT) to separate the inherently multi-scale features present in the flow results. Emphasis is put on the robust quantitative analysis enabled by this scheme, with this work specifically focusing on comparing atomizer nozzle designs. The generalized finite difference (GFD) method is used to simulate a high pressure gas injected into a viscous liquid stream. The proposed scheme is applied to time-averaged results exclusively. The scheme is used to evaluate both the surface and volume features of the fluid system. Due to the better recovery of small-scale features using the proposed scheme, the benefits of post-processing multiphase surface information rather than fluid volume information was shown. While the volume information lacks the fine-scale details of the surface information, the duality between interfaces and fluid volumes leads to similar trends related to the large-scale spatial structure recovered from both surface- and volume-based data sets.
pH-Sensitive Liposomes with Embedded 3-(isobutylamino)cholan-24-oic Acid: What Is the Possible Mechanism of Fast Cargo Release?
Authors: Efimova Anna A. , Popov Anton S. , Kazantsev Alexey V. , Semenyuk Pavel I. , Le-Deygen Irina M. , Lukashev Nikolay V. , Yaroslavov Alexander A.
Published: April 2023

pH-sensitive liposomes have great potential for biomedical applications, in particular as nanocontainers for the delivery of biologically active compounds to specific areas of the human body. In this article, we discuss the possible mechanism of fast cargo release from a new type of pH-sensitive liposomes with embedded ampholytic molecular switch (AMS, 3-(isobutylamino)cholan-24-oic acid) with carboxylic anionic groups and isobutylamino cationic ones attached to the opposite ends of the steroid core. AMS-containing liposomes demonstrated the rapid release of the encapsulated substance when altering the pH of an outer solution, but the exact mechanism of the switch action has not yet been accurately determined. Here, we report on the details of fast cargo release based on the data obtained using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy as well as atomistic molecular modeling. The findings of this study are relevant to the potential application of AMS-containing pH-sensitive liposomes for drug delivery.
Frequency and Intensity of Landfalling Tropical Cyclones in East Asia: Past Variations and Future Projections
Authors: Chan Johnny C. L.
Published: April 2023

This paper presents the latest analyses and integrates results of many past studies on the spatial and temporal variations of the annual frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones (TCs) making landfall along different areas of the East Asian (EA) coast. Future projections of such variations based on the past investigations are also presented. No statistically significant trend in the number of landfalling TCs could be identified in most of the EA coastal regions, except for an increasing one in Vietnam and a decreasing one in South China. Multi-decadal as well as interannual variations in the frequency of landfalling TCs are prevalent in almost all the EA coastal regions. Only TCs making landfall in Vietnam and the Korean Peninsula showed an increase in landfall intensity, with no trend in the other regions. Nevertheless, more intense landfalling TCs were evident in most regions during the past two decades. Multidecadal variations were not observed in some regions although interannual variations remained large. Various oscillations in the atmospheric circulation and the ocean conditions can largely explain the observed changes in the frequency and intensity of landfalling TCs in different regions of the EA coast. In the future, most climate models project a decrease in the number of TCs making landfall but an increase in the intensity of these TCs in all the EA coastal regions, especially for the most intense ones.
MWCNTs-GNPs Reinforced TPU Composites with Thermal and Electrical Conductivity: Low-Temperature Controlled DIW Forming
Authors: Duan Chenqi , Long Fei , Shi Xiaolu , Wang Yuting , Dong Jiajing , Ying Songtao , Li Yesheng , Cheng Yuchuan , Guo Jianjun , Xu Gaojie , Sun Aihua
Published: April 2023

As an effective technique for fabricating conductive and thermally conductive polymer composites, a multi-filler system incorporates different types and sizes of multiple fillers to form interconnected networks with improved electrical, thermal, and processing properties. In this study, DIW forming of bifunctional composites was achieved by controlling the temperature of the printing platform. The study was based on enhancing the thermal and electrical transport properties of hybrid ternary polymer nanocomposites with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and graphene nanoplates (GNPs). With thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) used as the matrix, the addition of MWCNTs, GNPs and both mixtures further improved the thermal conductivity of the elastomers. By adjusting the weight fraction of the functional fillers (MWCNTs and GNPs), the thermal and electrical properties were gradually explored. Here, the thermal conductivity of the polymer composites increased nearly sevenfold (from 0.36 W·m−1·k−1 to 2.87 W·m−1·k−1) and the electrical conductivity increased up to 5.49 × 10−2 S·m−1. It is expected to be used in the field of electronic packaging and environmental thermal dissipation, especially for modern electronic industrial equipment.
Ligilactobacillus murinus Strains Isolated from Mice Intestinal Tract: Molecular Characterization and Antagonistic Activity against Food-Borne Pathogens
Authors: Sandoval-Mosqueda Ivonne Lizeth , Llorente-Bousquets Adriana , Soto Carlos , Márquez Crisóforo Mercado , Fadda Silvina , Del Río García Juan Carlos
Published: April 2023

Considering the objectives of “One Health” and the Sustainable development Goals “Good health and well-being” for the development of effective strategies to apply against bacterial resistance, food safety dangers, and zoonosis risks, this project explored the isolation and identification of Lactobacillus strains from the intestinal tract of recently weaned mice; as well as the assessment of antibacterial activity against clinical and zoonotic pathogens. For molecular identification, 16S rRNA gene-specific primers were used and, via BLAST-NCBI, 16 Ligilactobacillus murinus, one Ligilactobacillus animalis, and one Streptococcus salivarius strains were identified and registered in GenBank after the confirmation of their identity percentage and the phylogenetic analysis of the 16 Ligilactobacillus murinus strains and their association with Ligilactobacillus animalis. The 18 isolated strains showed antibacterial activity during agar diffusion tests against Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 15313, enteropathogenic Escherichia coli O103, and Campylobacter jejuni ATCC 49943. Electrophoretic and zymographic techniques confirmed the presence of bacteriolytic bands with a relative molecular mass of 107 kDa and another of 24 kDa in Ligilactobacillus murinus strains. UPLC-MS analysis allowed the identification of a 107 kDa lytic protein as an N-acetylmuramoyl-L-amidase involved in cytolysis and considered a bacteriolytic enzyme with antimicrobial activity. The 24 kDa band displayed similarity with a portion of protein with aminopeptidase function. It is expected that these findings will impact the search for new strains and their metabolites with antibacterial activity as an alternative strategy to inhibit pathogens associated with major health risks that help your solution.
Green Biofabrication of Silver Nanoparticles of Potential Synergistic Activity with Antibacterial and Antifungal Agents against Some Nosocomial Pathogens
Authors: Al-Otibi Fatimah O. , Yassin Mohamed Taha , Al-Askar Abdulaziz A. , Maniah Khalid
Published: April 2023

Nosocomial bacterial and fungal infections are one of the main causes of high morbidity and mortality worldwide, owing to the high prevalence of multidrug-resistant microbial strains. Hence, the study aims to synthesize, characterize, and investigate the antifungal and antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) fabricated using Camellia sinensis leaves against nosocomial pathogens. The biogenic AgNPs revealed a small particle diameter of 35.761 ± 3.18 nm based on transmission electron microscope (TEM) graphs and a negative surface charge of −14.1 mV, revealing the repulsive forces between nanoparticles, which in turn indicated their colloidal stability. The disk diffusion assay confirmed that Escherichia coli was the most susceptible bacterial strain to the biogenic AgNPs (200 g/disk), while the lowest sensitive strain was found to be the Acinetobacter baumannii strain with relative inhibition zones of 36.14 ± 0.67 and 21.04 ± 0.19 mm, respectively. On the other hand, the biogenic AgNPs (200 µg/disk) exposed antifungal efficacy against Candida albicans strain with a relative inhibition zone of 18.16 ± 0.14 mm in diameter. The biogenic AgNPs exposed synergistic activity with both tigecycline and clotrimazole against A. baumannii and C. albicans, respectively. In conclusion, the biogenic AgNPs demonstrated distinct physicochemical properties and potential synergistic bioactivity with tigecycline, linezolid, and clotrimazole against gram-negative, gram-positive, and fungal strains, respectively. This is paving the way for the development of effective antimicrobial combinations for the effective management of nosocomial pathogens in intensive care units (ICUs) and health care settings.
Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Efficacy of Copper-Doped Phosphate Glass on Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Shetty Sunaina , Sekar Priyadharshini , Shetty Raghavendra M. , Abou Neel Ensanya Ali
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial [minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC)] and antibiofilm activity [log10 colony forming unit/mL (CFU/mL) and biofilm disruption] of copper-doped phosphate glass (CDPG) against Streptococcus oralis, Enterococcus faecalis, Lactobacillus casei, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methods: the antibacterial activity was determined using microbroth dilution and time-kill assay. The antibiofilm activity was investigated using crystal violet and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Bacteria growing in absence of CDPG were used as controls. Results: the MIC was ≥125 mg of CPDG/mL; the log10 CFU/mL reduction ranged from 2.66–3.14 to 6.23–9.65 after 4 and 24 h respectively. Generally, no growth was observed after 24 h of treatment with CDPG; the MBC was 250 mg/mL for L. casei and S. oralis while 500 mg/mL for the rest of the bacteria. The highest and lowest antibiofilm activity was observed against S. oralis and E. coli respectively. Three patterns of complete biofilm disruption were seen: (i) large areas with E. fecalis and S. oralis, (ii) medium-size pockets with S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, or (iii) small areas with E. coli and L. casei. Conclusion: CDPG can be potentially used as an antibacterial and an antibiofilm agent against oral biofilm-forming bacteria.
Natural Products; from the Laboratory to Clinical Practice
Authors: Elbarbry Fawzy
Published: April 2023

It has been such a great honor to serve as the Guest Editor for this Special Issue, “Exploration on Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Natural Molecules: Current Status and Future Perspectives” [...]
Scaffolds for Cartilage Tissue Engineering from a Blend of Polyethersulfone and Polyurethane Polymers
Authors: Wasyłeczko Monika , Remiszewska Elżbieta , Sikorska Wioleta , Dulnik Judyta , Chwojnowski Andrzej
Published: April 2023

In recent years, one of the main goals of cartilage tissue engineering has been to find appropriate scaffolds for hyaline cartilage regeneration, which could serve as a matrix for chondrocytes or stem cell cultures. The study presents three types of scaffolds obtained from a blend of polyethersulfone (PES) and polyurethane (PUR) by a combination of wet-phase inversion and salt-leaching methods. The nonwovens made of gelatin and sodium chloride (NaCl) were used as precursors of macropores. Thus, obtained membranes were characterized by a suitable structure. The top layers were perforated, with pores over 20 µm, which allows cells to enter the membrane. The use of a nonwoven made it possible to develop a three-dimensional network of interconnected macropores that is required for cell activity and mobility. Examination of wettability (contact angle, swelling ratio) showed a hydrophilic nature of scaffolds. The mechanical test showed that the scaffolds were suitable for knee joint applications (stress above 10 MPa). Next, the scaffolds underwent a degradation study in simulated body fluid (SBF). Weight loss after four weeks and changes in structure were assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and MeMoExplorer Software, a program that estimates the size of pores. The porosity measurements after degradation confirmed an increase in pore size, as expected. Hydrolysis was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis, where the disappearance of ester bonds at about 1730 cm−1 wavelength is noticeable after degradation. The obtained results showed that the scaffolds meet the requirements for cartilage tissue engineering membranes and should undergo further testing on an animal model.
Diastereoselective Synthesis of (–)-6,7-Dimethoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-1-carboxylic Acid via Morpholinone Derivatives
Authors: Chrzanowska Maria , Grajewska Agnieszka , Rozwadowska Maria D.
Published: April 2023

A simple and convenient synthesis of (–)-6,7-dimethoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-1-carboxylic acid is described, applying a combination of two synthetic methods: the Petasis reaction and Pomeranz–Fritsch–Bobbitt cyclization. The diastereomeric morpholinone derivative N-(2,2-diethoxyethyl)-3-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-5-phenyl-1,4-oxazin-2-one formed in the Petasis reaction was further transformed into 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-1-carboxylic acid via Pomeranz–Fritsch–Bobbitt cyclization, a classical method of synthesis leading to the tetrahydroisoquinoline core. We review important examples of applications of the Pomeranz–Fritsch process and its modifications in the synthesis of chiral tetrahydroisoquinoline derivatives that have been published in the past two decades.
Critical Evaluation of Embedding Media for Histological Studies of Early Stages of Chick Embryo Development
Authors: Kmecick Melyssa , Vieira da Costa Mariliza Cristine , Ferreira Eduardo da Costa , Prodocimo Maritana Mela , Ortolani-Machado Claudia Feijó
Published: April 2023

A histological examination is an important tool in embryology, developmental biology, and correlated areas. Despite the amount of information available about tissue embedding and different media, there is a lack of information regarding best practices for embryonic tissues. Embryonic tissues are considered fragile structures, usually small in size, and frequently challenging to position correctly in media for the subsequent histological steps. Here, we discuss the embedding media and procedures that provided us with appropriate preservation of tissue and easier orientation of embryos at early development. Fertilized Gallus gallus eggs were incubated for 72 h, collected, fixed, processed, and embedded with paraplast, polyethylene glycol (PEG), or historesin. These resins were compared by the precision of tissue orientation, the preview of the embryos in the blocks, microtomy, contrast in staining, preservation, average time, and cost. Paraplast and PEG did not allow correct embryo orientation, even with agar–gelatin pre-embedded samples. Additionally, structural maintenance was hindered and did not allow detailed morphological assessment, presenting tissue shrinkage and disruption. Historesin provided precise tissue orientation and excellent preservation of structures. Assessing the performance of the embedding media contributes significantly to future developmental research, optimizing the processing of embryo specimens and improving results.
Static and Dynamic Magnetic Properties of Fe3O4 Nanotubes
Authors: Olea de la Hoz Francisco , Saavedra Eduardo , Pereira Alejandro , Escrig Juan
Published: April 2023

In this paper, our objective was to investigate the static and dynamic magnetic properties of Fe3O4 nanotubes that are 1000 nm long, by varying the external radius and the thickness of the tube wall. We performed a detailed numerical analysis by simulating hysteresis curves with an external magnetic field applied parallel to the axis of the tubes (along the z-axis). Our findings indicate that nanotubes with an external radius of 30 nm exhibit non-monotonic behavior in their coercivity due to a change in the magnetization reversal mechanism, which was not observed in nanotubes with external radii of 80 nm. Additionally, we explored the dynamic susceptibility of these nanotubes and found that the position and number of resonance peaks can be controlled by manipulating the nanotube geometry. Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the behavior of Fe3O4 nanotubes, which can aid in the design and improvement in pseudo-one-dimensional technological devices.