bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraoral Sialadenoma Papilliferum: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature with Emphasis on Clinical and Histopathological Diagnostic Features
Authors: Antonelli Rita , Paes de Almeida Oslei , Bologna-Molina Ronell , Meleti Marco
Published: September 2022

Background. Sialadenoma papilliferum (SP) is a rare benign epithelial tumor of salivary gland origin, its diagnosis being potentially challenging. It was first described by Abrams and Finck in 1969 as an analog of the cutaneous syringocystadenoma papilliferum. The aim of this comprehensive review is to highlight the clinical and histopathological diagnostic aspects of intraoral SP, analyzing cases previously described and reporting new cases. Methods. Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched up to February 2022, using as entry term “sialadenoma papilliferum”. No time limits were applied and only studies in English were taken into account. Only cases involving the mouth were included. Conference proceedings, personal communications, and letters to the editor were excluded. Results. In total, 42 out of 234 articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria, with 64 cases reported. Mean age of patients with SP was 57.2 years, with a higher prevalence among males. The most affected site was the palate, particularly the hard palate. Four cases with uncertain malignant features have been reported. While clinical manifestations of SP are rather unspecific (e.g., submucosal swelling with ulceration), histopathological and immunohistochemical features are quite peculiar, SP have a limited growth potential, leading to conservative excision as treatment of choice. Conclusions. SP, though rare, should be taken into consideration in the differential diagnosis of intraoral swellings, particularly those located on the palate.
Direct and Indirect Role of Migratory Birds in Spreading CCHFV and WNV: A Multidisciplinary Study on Three Stop-Over Islands in Italy
Authors: Mancuso Elisa , Toma Luciano , Pascucci Ilaria , d’Alessio Silvio Gerardo , Marini Valeria , Quaglia Michela , Riello Sara , Ferri Andrea , Spina Fernando , Serra Lorenzo , Goffredo Maria , Monaco Federica
Published: September 2022

The annual movements of migratory birds can contribute to the spread of African ticks and tick-borne pathogens of potential public health concern across Europe. The aim of the study was to investigate their role in the possible introduction of African ticks and tick-borne pathogens into European countries during spring migration. A total of 2344 ticks were collected during three spring seasons from 1079 birds captured on three Italian stop-over islands during their northbound migration. Once identified, each tick was tested by RT-PCR for the presence of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHFV), West Nile (WNV), and Usutu (USUV) viruses. Moreover, carcasses of birds found dead were collected and tested for the possible presence of WNV and USUV. Results confirmed a higher contribution of trans-Saharan migrants compared to intra-Palearctic ones and the prevalence of African tick species in the sample. CCHFV was detected for the second time in Italy in a Hyalomma rufipes, and WNV was found in two ticks of the same genus, all carried by trans-Saharan birds. WNV lineage 1 was also found in the organs of a Garden warbler. These results confirm the role of migratory birds in carrying African ticks, as well as viruses of zoonotic importance, from Africa into Europe.
Tetraplex Fluorescent Microbead-Based Immunoassay for the Serodiagnosis of Newcastle Disease Virus and Avian Influenza Viruses in Poultry Sera
Authors: Zhao Na , Grund Christian , Beer Martin , Wang Gang , Harder Timm C.
Published: September 2022

Virulent Newcastle disease virus (NDV) as well as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAIV) subtypes H5 and H7 induce contagious and lethal systemic disease in poultry. In contrast, low pathogenic AIV H5 and H7 may circulate clinically unnoticed in poultry but eventually generate HPAIV. Low pathogenic NDV strains are widely used as live-attenuated vaccines against ND. Serological tools are essential to conduct active surveillance for infections with notifiable AIV-H5, -H7 and to control vaccination against NDV and HPAIV in poultry populations. Here, recombinant nucleocapsid proteins (NP) of AIV and NDV, and haemagglutinin protein fragment-1 (HA1) of AIV subtypes H5 and H7 were expressed in E. coli. Purification and refolding were required before coating fluorescent microspheres via streptavidin-biotin linkage. The tetraplexed inhibition fluorescent microsphere immunoassay (iFMIA) was then assembled for analysis on a Luminex®-like platform (Bioplex®) using murine monoclonal antibodies specific for each of the four targets. The assay was evaluated by testing galliform poultry sera derived from experimental infections (n = 257) and from farms (n = 250), respectively. The tetraplex iFMIA compared favorably with commercially available ELISAs and the “gold standard” hemagglutination inhibition assay. Tetraplexed iFMIA provided a specific and sensitive tool to detect and discriminate AIV- and NDV-specific antibodies in the sera of galliform poultry.
Molecular Epidemiology of Group B Streptococci in Lithuania Identifies Multi-Drug Resistant Clones and Sporadic ST1 Serotypes Ia and Ib
Authors: Rodgus Jonah , Prakapaite Ruta , Mitsidis Panagiotis , Grigaleviciute Ramune , Planciuniene Rita , Kavaliauskas Povilas , Jauneikaite Elita
Published: September 2022

Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus, GBS) is a leading cause of neonatal infections. Yet, detailed assessment of the genotypic and phenotypic factors associated with GBS carriage, mother-to-baby transmission, and GBS infection in neonates and adults is lacking. Understanding the distribution of GBS genotypes, including the predominance of different serotypes, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes, and virulence factors, is likely to help to prevent GBS diseases, as well as inform estimates of the efficacy of future GBS vaccines. To this end, we set out to characterise GBS isolates collected from pregnant and non-pregnant women in Kaunas region in Lithuania. Whole genome sequences of 42 GBS isolates were analysed to determine multi-locus sequence typing (MLST), the presence of acquired AMR and surface protein genes, and the phylogenetic relatedness of isolates. We identified serotypes Ia (42.9%, 18/42), III (33.3%, 14/42), V (21.4%, 9/42), and a single isolate of serotype Ib. Genomic analyses revealed high diversity among the isolates, with 18 sequence types (STs) identified, including three novel STs. 85.7% (36/42) of isolates carried at least one AMR gene: tetM or tetO (35/42), ermB or lsaC (8/42) and ant6-Ia and aph3-III (2/42). This study represents the first genomic analysis of GBS isolated from women in Lithuania and contributes to an improved understanding of the global spread of GBS genotypes and phenotypes, laying the foundations for future GBS surveillance in Lithuania.
Epistemic Emotions Justified
Authors: Silva Laura
Published: September 2022

The view that emotions can provide defeasible justification for evaluative beliefs is widespread in the emotion literature. Despite this, the question of whether epistemic emotions can provide defeasible justification for theoretical beliefs has been almost entirely ignored. There seems to be an implicit consensus that while emotions may have justificatory roles to play in the former case, they have no such roles to play in the latter case. Here, I argue against this consensus by sketching a proposal for securing epistemic emotions justificatory roles.
Detection of Hemoglobin Concentration Based on Defective One-Dimensional Photonic Crystals
Authors: Edappadikkunnummal Shiju , Chembra Vasudevan Rahul , Dinesh Sruthy , Thomas Sheenu , Desai Narayana Rao , Kaniyarakkal Sharafudeen
Published: September 2022

The significance of the optical biosensor is its ability to detect biomolecules in their natural form. Among them, photonic crystal-based biosensors analyze the refractive index changes due to molecular interaction, and that is correlated to the sample concentration instead of sample mass. In this paper, we report the sensing performance of a one-dimensional photonic crystal-based sensor for the detection of hemoglobin concentration using an asymmetric periodic structure with a single defect. We have used the transfer matrix method to analyze the reflectance properties of the photonic crystal. The resonant dip in the spectra and its shift with hemoglobin concentration is the basis of our sensor design. The proposed sensor is efficient in sensing hemoglobin concentration, the sensitivity and other sensor parameters were derived numerically, and the obtained parameters are comparable to the many of the reported values of photonic crystal-based sensors. The dependence of the defect layer thickness on the position of resonant dips and sensitivity is also demonstrated in our work. The numerical results prove that these photonic crystal biosensors are simple, cost effective and highly accurate for detecting the hemoglobin concentration.
Ultrashort Laser Pulse Focusing by Amplitude and Phase Zone Plates
Authors: Kozlova Elena , Kotlyar Victor
Published: September 2022

In this paper, using the frequency-dependent finite-difference time-domain method, a femtosecond cylindrical vector beam of second-order focusing binary zone plates (BZP) is investigated. It is shown that the relief material has a significant effect on the electromagnetic field formed in the focal plane. It is also shown that, in the case of tight focusing of a second-order cylindrically polarized laser pulse, a reverse energy flux is formed in the focus near the optical axis. For the quartz BZP, the energy backflow is maximum. For aluminum and chromium BZPs, the reverse energy flux is approximately two times less, and there is no energy backflow in the focus formed by the gold BZP. This study will be useful for surface nanostructuring applications where a focused short pulse is applied.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Two Sugarcane Cultivars in Response to Paclobutrazol Treatment
Authors: Zhang Ronghua , Li Haibi , Gui Yiyun , Wei Jinju , Zhu Kai , Zhou Hui , Lakshmanan Prakash , Mao Lianying , Lu Manman , Liu Junxian , Que Youxiong , Li Song , Liu Xihui
Published: September 2022

Sugarcane is an important crop across the globe, and the rapid multiplication of excellent cultivars is an important object of the sugarcane industry. As one of the plant growth regulators, paclobutrazol (PBZ) has been frequently used in the tissue culture of sugarcane seedlings. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms of response to PBZ in this crop. Here, we performed a comparative transcriptome analysis between sensitive (LC05−136) and non−sensitive (GGZ001) sugarcane cultivars treated by PBZ at three time points (0 d, 10 d, and 30 d) using RNA sequencing (RNA−Seq). The results showed that approximately 70.36 Mb of clean data for each sample were generated and assembled into 239,212 unigenes. A total of 6108 and 4404 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified within the sensitive and non−sensitive sugarcane cultivars, respectively. Among them, DEGs in LC05−136 were most significantly enriched in the photosynthesis and valine, leucine and isoleucine degradation pathways, while in GGZ001, DEGs associated with ion channels and plant–pathogen interaction were mainly observed. Notably, many interesting genes, including those encoding putative regulators, key components of photosynthesis, amino acids degradation and glutamatergic synapse, were identified, revealing their importance in the response of sugarcane to PBZ. Furthermore, the expressions of sixteen selected DEGs were tested by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT−qPCR), confirming the reliability of the RNA−seq data used in this study. These results provide valuable information regarding the transcriptome changes in sugarcane treated by PBZ and provide an insight into understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the resistance to PBZ in sugarcane.
Morphology and Molecular Phylogeny of Genus Oedogonium (Oedogoniales, Chlorophyta) from China
Authors: Xiong Qian , Chen Yangliang , Dai Qingyu , Liu Benwen , Liu Guoxiang
Published: September 2022

Oedogoniales comprises the three genera Oedogonium, Oedocladium, and Bulbochaete, which include more than 600 described species. The classification of Oedogoniaceae is currently based on morphology, and the complicated morphological characteristics make species identification difficult, with the limited molecular data also restricting the phylogenetic analysis. In the present study, we collected 47 Oedogonium specimens from China and sequenced 18S rDNA, ITS2, ITS (ITS1 + 5.8S + ITS2), and rbcL sequences to conduct phylogenetic analyses. We selected nine morphological characteristics, most of which were considered important in traditional systematics, for comparison with the molecular phylogeny results. All the topologies based on different datasets showed similar results; Oedogonium was a paraphyletic group, and Oedocladium and Bulbochaete clustered with Oedogonium. The morphological characteristics matching the phylogenetic results showed that the types of sexual differentiation, characteristics of the oogonium (including shape, types of aperture, and ornamentation of oospore wall), division types of antheridial, and number of sperm of each antheridial, which are considered the most important morphological characteristics in traditional taxonomy of Oedogonium, did not form monophyletic lineages respectively, indicating that traditional systematics may not reflect the real phylogeny of the genus Oedogonium. In addition, a new taxonomical classification of the genus Oedogonium was presented according to the shapes of basal cells, which matched well with the phylogenetic topologies. In addition, we propose to divide the genus Oedogonium into two sections, section Globosum and section Elongatum, representing the species with spherical or sub-hemispherical basal cells and elongated basal cells, respectively.
Micropropagation of Citronella mucronata D. Don, a Vulnerable Chilean Endemic Tree Species
Authors: Guerra Francesca , Badilla Loreto , Cautin Ricardo , Castro Mónica
Published: September 2022

Citronella mucronata (C. mucronata), a tree species endemic to Chile, has become threatened in its natural habitat and is currently listed as vulnerable. Tree population parameters have deteriorated due to indiscriminate logging and other anthropogenic activities, warranting research on mass propagation as a means of recovery. This study, unprecedented for this native species, has developed a successful method for its micropropagation. The objective was to establish a protocol for in vitro propagation of C. mucronata to produce large quantities of high-quality seedlings in an accelerated plant acquisition process. The best results were achieved by growing explants on Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal culture medium supplemented with 4.44 μM 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 14.76 μM indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). Explant survival rate was 78 %, the average shoot length reached 3.2 cm, the number of lateral shoots was 3.9, and rooting rate was 60%. Furthermore, stimulation with red and blue light in a 1:2 ratio, supplemented with 14.76 μM IBA, improved the rooting rate to 93%. The survival rate of rooted explants reached 100% in the acclimatization stage when using peat and perlite substrate (1:1 v/v).
Molecular Identification of African Nymphaea Species (Water Lily) Based on ITS, trnT-trnF and rpl16
Authors: Qian Zhi-Hao , Munywoki Justus Mulinge , Wang Qing-Feng , Malombe Itambo , Li Zhi-Zhong , Chen Jin-Ming
Published: September 2022

The genus Nymphaea L. (water lily) is the most diverse genus in the family Nymphaeaceae, with more than 50 species worldwide, including 11 species distributed in Africa. The complex and variable morphology of Nymphaea makes it extremely difficult to accurately identify species based on morphological characteristics alone. DNA barcoding has the potential to identify species accurately. In this study, 158 Nymphaea populations from seven African countries were collected for species identification by ITS, trnT-trnF and rpl16. Additionally, the three candidate DNA barcodes were evaluated for genetic distance and barcoding gap. Based on the comprehensive analysis of sequence similarity, genetic distance method and phylogenetic tree, a total of 137 populations of seven Nymphaea species from African were well-identified, including N. lotus, N. petersiana, N. zenkeri, N. nouchali var. caerulea, N. micrantha and N. guineensis. ITS has more obvious advantages over trnT-trnF, rpl16 and trnT-trnF+rpl16 in the intraspecific and interspecific variation differences and barcoding gap and can identify most species. trnT-trnF and rpl16 can identify some species that cannot be identified by ITS. The results showed that it is more appropriate to apply the combination of ITS and trnT-trnF (or rpl16) as the DNA barcoding of Nymphaea. Additionally, this study further enriches the DNA barcoding database of Nymphaea and provides a reference basis for studying taxonomy, phylogenetics and evolutionary origin of Nymphaea.
Simulation of the First Two Microseconds of an Ar CCP Cold Plasma Discharge by the PIC-MCC Method
Authors: Mandracci Pietro
Published: September 2022

Most simulations of capacitively coupled radiofrequency cold-plasma discharges (RF-CCP) are focused on the steady state, but the initial discharge time is important for understanding the ignition process and the behavior of pulsed discharges. In this work, the time evolution of an RF-CCP Ar discharge was simulated, considering a pressure of 66.6 Pa, a distance between the electrodes of 20 mm, and RF (13.56 MHz) bias amplitudes in range 100–400 V, and the discharge evolution was observed for the first 2 μs. A 1d3v (1 dimension for particle positions and 3 dimensions for particle velocities) electrostatic particle in cell with montecarlo collisions (PIC-MCC) model was used, with separated particle weights for electrons and ions that varied with the particle density. During the simulations, the time evolution of the electron density, mean electron energy, Debye length, Debye number, and plasma frequency were observed. The spatial distribution of electric potential and the electron energy distribution function were also monitored. A transition between two regimes was observed; the first was characterized by strong oscillation of the mean electron energy and an exponential increase of the mean plasma density with time, while in the second the mean electron energy was lower, and the plasma density increased linearly. The time required for the transition between the two regimes increased as the RF amplitude was raised from 100 to 250 V, then decreased with a further increase of the RF amplitude to 300 and 350 V.
Biobased Copolyamides 56/66: Synthesis, Characterization and Crystallization Kinetics
Authors: Tseng Chia-Hsiung , Tsai Ping-Szu
Published: September 2022

This study synthesized a series of new biobased copolyamides (co-PAs), namely PA56/PA66 with various comonomer ratios, by using in situ polycondensation. The structures, compositions, behaviors, and crystallization kinetics of the co-PAs were investigated through proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarized optical microscopy (POM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The influence of the composition of co-PAs on their mechanical properties and thermal stability was investigated. The co-PAs exhibited a eutectic melting point when the PA56 content was 50 mol%, with the crystallization temperature decreasing from 229 to a minimum 188 °C and the melting temperature from 253 to a minimum 218 °C. The results indicated that the tensile strength and flexural modulus first decreased and then increased as the PA66 content increased. The nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of the PA56/PA66 co-PAs were analyzed using both the Avrami equation modifications presented by Jeziorny and Mo. The results also indicated that the crystallization rate of the PA56/PA66 co-PAs was higher than that of PA56.
Effects of At-Home and In-Office Bleaching Agents on the Color Recovery of Esthetic CAD-CAM Restorations after Red Wine Immersion
Authors: Lee Wei-Fang , Takahashi Hidekazu , Huang Shiun-Yi , Zhang Jia-Zhen , Teng Nai-Chia , Peng Pei-Wen
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of at-home and in-office bleaching agents on esthetic CAD-CAM materials after red wine immersion by measuring their optical properties. Sixty specimens were prepared out of three esthetic CAD-CAM materials: Vita Enamic, Celtra Duo, and Ceresmart (n = 20). All specimens were immersed in a red wine solution, and color measurements were performed. Specimens were randomly divided (n = 10) according to the bleaching procedure (in office, at home), bleaching durations were set to 3 time points, and color measurements were performed. According to the Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage (CIE) L* a* b* parameters, CIEDE2000 color differences (ΔE00), translucency parameters (TP00), and whiteness index values (ΔWID) after wine staining and after bleaching were calculated. Data were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U-test, the Kruskal–Wallis test, and a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (α = 0.05). ΔE00, ΔTP00, and ΔWID decreased with an increase in bleaching treatment. ΔE00 after the final bleaching treatment of in-office bleaching ranged from 1.7 to 2.0, whereas those of in-office treatment ranged from 0.4 to 1.1. All ΔTP00 and ΔWID after the final treatment were below the 50:50% perceptibility thresholds (ΔTP00 < 0.6, and ΔWID < 0.7). Significant differences in ΔE00, ΔTP00, and ΔWID among esthetic CAD-CAM materials were found between CD and CE. In the present study, color recovery after at-home and in-office bleaching appeared to be material-dependent. In-office bleaching showed more effective recovery comparing to at-home bleaching.
Bone Healing in Rat Segmental Femur Defects with Graphene-PCL-Coated Borate-Based Bioactive Glass Scaffolds
Authors: Basal Ozgur , Ozmen Ozlem , Deliormanlı Aylin M.
Published: September 2022

Bone is a continually regenerating tissue with the ability to heal after fractures, though healing significant damage requires intensive surgical treatment. In this study, borate-based 13-93B3 bioactive glass scaffolds were prepared though polymer foam replication and coated with a graphene-containing poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL) layer to support bone repair and regeneration. The effects of graphene concentration (1, 3, 5, 10 wt%) on the healing of rat segmental femur defects were investigated in vivo using male Sprague–Dawley rats. Radiographic imaging, histopathological and immuno-histochemical (bone morphogenetic protein (BMP-2), smooth muscle actin (SMA), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) examinations were performed 4 and 8 weeks after implantation. Results showed that after 8 weeks, both cartilage and bone formation were observed in all animal groups. Bone growth was significant starting from the 1 wt% graphene-coated bioactive glass-implanted group, and the highest amount of bone formation was seen in the group containing 10 wt% graphene (p < 0.001). Additionally, the presence of graphene nanoplatelets enhanced BMP-2, SMA and ALP levels compared to bare bioactive glass scaffolds. It was concluded that pristine graphene-coated bioactive glass scaffolds improve bone formation in rat femur defects.
Study on Health Indicator Construction and Health Status Evaluation of Hydraulic Pumps Based on LSTM–VAE
Authors: Li Zhenbao , Jiang Wanlu , Wu Xiang , Zhang Shuqing , Chen Dongning
Published: September 2022

This paper addresses the difficulty of evaluating operating status in widely used gear pumps. A method for constructing hydraulic pump health indicators and evaluating health status is proposed based on LSTM–VAE. In this study, the vibration signal data source of gear pumps was assessed in the accelerated life test. Firstly, the normalized feature vectors of the whole-life operation data of gear pumps were extracted by wavelet packet decomposition and amplitude feature extraction. Combining an LSTM algorithm with a VAE algorithm, a method for constructing hydraulic pump health indicators based on LSTM–VAE is proposed. By learning the feature vectors of gear pumps in varying health conditions, a one-dimensional HI curve of the gear pumps was obtained. Then, LSTM was used to predict the HI curve of gear pumps. According to the volume efficiency of the gear pumps, the health status of gear pumps is divided into four states: health, sub-health, deterioration, and failure. The health status of the hydraulic pump is accurately evaluated by the health indicator. Finally, the proposed method is compared with the traditional method based on feature selection and PCA dimensionality reduction. The health indicator constructed by the method proposed in this paper is superior to the traditional method in terms of tendency, robustness, and monotonicity, which proves the effectiveness of the method proposed in this paper.
Extrusion Modification: Effect of Extrusion on the Functional Properties and Structure of Rice Protein
Authors: Gao Yuxuan , Sun Yi , Zhang Yu , Sun Yuankuo , Jin Tie
Published: September 2022

Modification of rice protein by extrusion technology can broaden the range of processing and applications for food and feed raw materials. In this study, rice protein was extruded at different screw speeds (100–250 rpm), extrusion temperatures (90–150 °C), and moisture contents (25–40%). Compared with an unextruded protein, the functional properties and structural properties of textured rice protein were evaluated. The results showed that, after extrusion, the solubility of protein was improved, by up to 19.76%, which was 45.23% higher than pre-extrusion; the water holding capacity of extruded rice protein was highest at 200 rpm, 130 °C, and 25%, which could be enhanced by 37.74%; the emulsion stability was enhanced by 152.82% at 200 rpm, 130 °C, and 35%. Under extrusion, the content of sulfhydryl and disulfide bonds of rice protein decreased significantly; the hydrogen bond content increased, and the ionic bond content decreased; the hydrophobic effect decrease, except at 200 rpm, 130 °C, and 40%. The microstructure changed significantly after extrusion, producing protein aggregates with a tight structure. No new characteristic peaks appeared after extrusion, but transformation occurred between the components of the secondary structure: β-sheet and β-turn angles to an α-helix structure toward the transformation, but β-sheet was still the main component. As a safe and efficient modification method, extrusion cooking can effectively improve the functional properties of rice protein to enrich the application of rice protein resources.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Potential of Poly(o-anisidine)/BaSO4 Nanocomposites with Enhanced Electrical Conductivity
Authors: Ahmad Mirza Nadeem , Nadeem Sohail , Soltane Raya , Javed Mohsin , Iqbal Shahid , Kanwal Zunaira , Farid Muhammad Fayyaz , Rabea Sameh , Elkaeed Eslam B. , Aljazzar Samar O. , Alrbyawi Hamad , Elkhatib Walid F.
Published: September 2022

The poly(o-anisidine)/BaSO4 nanocomposites were prepared by oxidative polymerization of o-anisidine monomer with BaSO4 filler for the potential antibacterial properties of the composite materials. To achieve the optimal and tunable properties of the nanocomposites, the ratio of BaSO4 filler was changed at the rates of 1%, 3%, 5%, 7%, and 10% with respect to matrix. Different analytical techniques, i.e., FTIR and UV-visible spectroscopy, were employed for functional identification and optical absorption of the poly(o-anisidine)/BaSO4 nanocomposites. The FTIR data revealed the significant interaction between POA and BaSO4, as well as the good absorption behavior of the UV-visible spectra. The conducting properties were controllable by varying the load percentage of the BaSO4 filler. Furthermore, different bacterial strains, i.e., Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Gram-negative) and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive), were used to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the POA/BaSO4 nanocomposites. The largest zones of inhibition 0.8 and 0.9 mm were reached using 7% and 10% for Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively.
On Macroscopic Quantum Coherence with Synchronized Atoms and Molecules: Superradiance
Authors: Ariunbold Gombojav O.
Published: September 2022

The collective behavior of quantum particles is one of the most intriguing phenomena in quantum optics. In particular, superradiance refers to spontaneous collective emissions from a group of quantum particles behaving collectively as a whole due to the buildup of macroscopic quantum coherence. An important question is whether macroscopic quantum coherence is constructed by means of a quantum synchronization (i.e., a quantum analog of classical synchronization) or not. The purpose of this article is to draw attention to this question from the author’s perspective. A few selected studies relevant to synchronized atoms and molecules are discussed. The author concludes that collective behaviors of quantum particles may be formulated as quantum synchronizations, but extensive studies are still needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Experimental Investigation on Ignition of Hyperburner Based on Gliding Arc Plasma Igniter Driven by Pressure Difference
Authors: Cheng Xinyao , Song Huimin , Sun Jiulun , Cui Wei , Zhang Zhibo , Jia Min , Jin Di , Zhu Yifei
Published: September 2022

The hyperburner is a key component of a TBCC engine, and its reliable ignition and stable operation are critical. The gliding arc plasma igniter driven by differential pressure has the technical advantages of low energy consumption and high jet temperature. In this paper, the electrical and flow characteristics of the gliding arc plasma igniter are studied, and the basic ignition experiment in the hyperburner is carried out. Electrical characteristic experiments show that the discharge duration, the evolution of the gliding arc and the fracture frequency are affected by the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet of the igniter (Δp). With the increase in Δp, the frequency of the trapezoidal envelope in the voltage and current waveforms increases, and the frequency of the evolution and fracture of the gliding arc increases. The continuous discharge time of the gliding arc decreases when Δp = 550 Torr. The flow characteristic experiments show that the velocity of the swirl sheath is increased and the protective effect on the gliding arc is enhanced with the increase in Δp. In the range of 20–550 Torr, the jet length first increases and then decreases with the increase in Δp. The jet length reaches a maximum of 31 mm at Δp = 50 Torr. Basic ignition experiments show that proper Δp can widen the lean ignition limit and shorten the ignition delay time. In the working conditions of this paper, the ignition effect is the best when Δp = 350 Torr, which can widen the lean ignition limit by 37.5% and shorten the ignition delay time by 17%. After increasing the oil–gas ratios, the combustion is more complete and the ignition delay time can be shortened by 93.1% at most.
Reverse Osmosis Modeling Study of Lead and Arsenic Removal from Drinking Water in Tarija and La Paz, Bolivia
Authors: Villena-Martínez Esteban Manuel , Alvizuri-Tintaya Paola Andrea , Lora-García Jaime , Torregrosa-López Juan Ignacio , Lo-Iacono-Ferreira Vanesa Gladys
Published: September 2022

An investigation of primary water sources in two Bolivian basins identified the presence of heavy metals toxic to health that exceeded the permissible limits for drinking water. Lead deposited in the San Jacinto and Huacata–Tarija reservoirs within the Guadalquivir basin and arsenic in the Milluni–La Paz basin were identified. The work studies reverse osmosis (RO) to remove Pb and As. The main contribution of this research is the development and construction of a mathematical model based on the Spiegler–Kedem concentration polarization model using different concentrations of Pb and As. The model makes it possible to design high conversion facilities (>80%) and optimize the process from the point of view of energy efficiency in future works. The model was developed to also include an Arrhenius temperature adjustment factor that allows for an accurate prediction of the process performance. The experimentation was carried out in two RO pilot plants using polyamide membranes. The model fits correctly with a maximum relative error between the experimental and theoretical flows of 5.4% and 4.4%. Among the benefits of the study, it guarantees the rejection of metals greater than 99%, even at low pressures.
The Effect of Mineralized Plasmatic Matrix and Chitosan on the Healing of Critical-Sized Mandibular Bone Defects in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Hendawy Ahmed , Atiba Ayman , Abdo Walied , Osman Amira , Sadakah Abdelfattah , Abou ElReash Ashraf , Elsayad Gamal , Xie Xiaoli
Published: September 2022

Background: In maxillofacial surgery, critical size mandibular defects remain a challenging issue. There have been numerous attempts to improve mandibular defect healing. Recently, bone tissue engineering has provided many benefits in improving bone healing. Herein, we tried to investigate the effect of Mineralized plasmatic matrix (MPM) and Chitosan to enhance tissue healing and regeneration in mandibular bone defect. Methods: A mandibular bone defect of critical size was created in 45 New Zealand rabbits. There were three groups of rabbits: the MPM group, the Chitosan group, and the control group. Radiographical, histological, and immune histochemical evaluations were performed at 4, 8, and 12 post-operative weeks. Results: The MPM group demonstrated the highest degree of bone formation with uniform radio-opacity nearly like that of adjacent healthy parent tissue. While in the chitosan group, most of the defect area was filled with radio-opaque bone with persistent small radiolucent areas. The control group showed less bone formation than the MPM and chitosan group, with more radiolucent areas. Sections stained with (H&E) demonstrated an increase in osseous tissue formation in both the MPM and chitosan groups. Staining with Masson’s trichrome revealed an increase in fibrous connective tissue proliferation in both the MPM and chitosan groups. In both the MPM and chitosan groups, nuclear factor kappa p65 was downregulated, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 was upregulated. Conclusion: According to the current study, MPM and Chitosan may have beneficial effects on the healing of critical-sized mandibular bone defects.
A PDCA Framework towards a Multi-Response Optimization of Process Parameters Based on Taguchi-Fuzzy Model
Authors: Tanash Moayad , Al Athamneh Raed , Bani Hani Dania , Rababah Mumen , Albataineh Zaid
Published: September 2022

Multi-response optimization problems investigation is a crucial element in initiatives designed to enhance quality and overall productivity for manufacturing processes. Since no particular algorithm can be employed for all multi-response problems, defining the method that is utilized as a problem-solving technique is a vital step in the process factors optimization. Identifying a formal procedure of implementing the improvement approach in a multi-criteria decision-making problem is a critical need to ensure the consistency and sustainability of the enhancement methods. In this study, a Plan–Do–Check–Act (PDCA) framework is implemented for a case study in the food industry under which a multi-response optimization problem is investigated. The design of experiment (DOE) is used to examine the effect of process parameters on the quality responses by using the Taguchi method to find the optimal setting for each parameter. An orthogonal array (OA) and signal-to-noise (SNR) ratio is employed to investigate the performance characteristics. Each performance characteristic is then converted into a signal-to-noise ratio, and all the ratios are then fed into a fuzzy model to produce a single comprehensive output measure (COM). The average COM values for various factor levels are calculated, and the level that maximizes the COM value for each factor is identified as the optimal level. Results indicated the effectiveness of the applied method to find the optimal factor levels for the multi-response optimization problem under study. The global optimal factor levels that are driven from the fuzzy logic for the studied parameters are 1250, 40, 7.5, and 1:2, for the speed, frying time, cooking time, and the coating ratio, respectively. Means of all the studied quality characteristics were closer to the target values when compared with the initial factors’ settings.
Characteristics of Ecological Energy Carriers Used in Agricultural Technology
Authors: Hujo Ľubomír , Janoušková Romana , Simikić Mirko , Zastempowski Marcin , Michalides Matej , Hajdáková Monika
Published: September 2022

This article focuses on the properties of ecological energy carriers, which are used in agricultural and forestry technology. The aim of the article is to describe the degradation of the working fluid from the point of view of the atomic emission spectrometer, which is used for the purpose of monitoring contaminants and additive elements. The working fluid examined was Shell Naturelle HF-E 46, a universal ecological transmission–hydraulic fluid, which was tested on laboratory test equipment. The laboratory measurement was performed for 200 h, during which the gear hydraulic pump with external gearing was cyclically loaded according to the Vickers standard. The analysis of the transmission–hydraulic fluid was performed after every 50 working hours, where the analysis of the working fluid showed that there were no significant changes in the properties of the working fluid and fluid is suitable for work in agricultural and forestry machines operating in environmentally sensitive environments.
Attitudes and Practices towards HPV Vaccination and Its Social Processes in Europe: An Equity-Focused Scoping Review
Authors: Alarcão Violeta , Zdravkova Bilyana
Published: September 2022

The sociological understanding of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination offers the possibility to understand society better as the processes that shape health beliefs and influence HPV vaccine decisions relate to gender, power, and identity. This research aimed to locate, select, and critically assess scientific evidence regarding the attitudes and practices towards HPV vaccination and its social processes with a focus on health equity. A scoping review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) and the recommendations made by the Joanna Briggs Institute was undertaken. Medline and Scopus were searched from their start date until December 2021. The review followed the Population/Concept/Context (PCC) inclusion criteria: Population = General population, adults and adolescents, Concept = Empirical data on determinants of HPV vaccination, Context= Studies on attitudes and practices towards HPV vaccination and its social processes with a focus on gender, class, and ethnic/racial inequalities. Of the 235 selected articles, 28 were from European countries and were the focus of this review, with special attention to socio-economic determinants in HPV vaccine hesitancy in Europe, a region increasingly affected by vaccination public distrust and criticism. Barriers and facilitators of HPV vaccine uptake and determinants of immunization were identified. Given the emphasis on health equity, these data are relevant to strengthening vaccination programs to promote vaccination for all people.
Optimum Rate and Deep Placement of Nitrogen Fertilizer Improves Nitrogen Use Efficiency and Tomato Yield in Nepal
Authors: Pandit Naba Raj , Choudhary Dyutiman , Maharjan Shashish , Dhakal Krishna , Vista Shree Prasad , Gaihre Yam Kanta
Published: September 2022

In Nepal, blanket fertilizer recommendations without considering diverse soil types, nutrient status, climate and crop management practices along with imbalanced fertilization practices by farmers, mainly “urea fertilizer,” have resulted in reduced nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and productivity in tomato production. Optimizing the rate of nitrogen (N) fertilizer, application time and improved application methods could increase crop yields and NUE and reduce environmental costs. This study was conducted to identify the optimum N rate and application method for increased tomato yield and NUE. Multilocation trials (n = 28) conducted in a randomized complete block design with nine treatments across five districts included the omission of N, P and K (N0, P0, K0), variable N rates of 100, 150, 200 and 250 kg ha−1 (N-100, N-150, N-200 and N-250), use of urea briquettes (UB) with deep placement (UBN-150) and a control (CK). N input in UB was reduced by 25% from the recommended N rate of 200 kg ha−1 considering its expected higher NUE. Yield responses from an NPK omission plot revealed N as the most limiting plant nutrient. Applications of fertilizer at N-100, N-150, N-200 and N-250 increased tomato yield by 27%, 35%, 43% and 27%, respectively, over N0. Tomato yields responded quadratically to the added N fertilizers with optimum rates ranging from 150 to 200 kg ha−1 across districts. UBN-150 significantly increased tomato yield by 12% over N-150 and produced a similar yield to N-200 (the recommended rate). The highest partial factor productivity of nitrogen (PFPN) was observed at N-100 and the highest agronomic efficiency of N (AEN) was at N-200. Deep placement of UB at-150 increased PFPN by 8% and 21% and AEN by 27% and 21% compared with N-150 and N-200, respectively. These results have positive implications for developing efficient N fertilization strategies to increase tomato yields and reduce environmental impacts in Nepal.
Transnational Migration and Dual Career of Slovenian and Swiss Elite Female Handball Players—A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Bon Marta , Doupona Mojca , Wilson-Gahan Susan , Capranica Laura , Guidotti Flavia
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to identify the career paths of transnational migrating female elite handball players. Fourteen Slovenian and Suisse national team players were monitored over a 7-year period by means of semi-structured interviews and official handball records. At the end of the examination period, six still-active players were interviewed again. Qualitative thematic analysis was employed to develop a contextualized understanding of participants’ careers paths and life trajectories in relation to their athletic migration and dual career. In relation to the limited opportunities offered by small countries with middle-ranking national handball teams, participants highlighted that sport migration coupled with dual career opportunities represented a strategic decision for a successful career development through several key factors: (1) a clear intention towards a professional handball career; (2) the actual fulfilment of professional handball career aspirations; (3) dual career goals as part of the migration process; (4) high personal ambition and emotional connection to handball; (5) the implementation of a successful dual career path; (6) a positive migration experience; and (7) feeling supported and valued during relocation. Sport federations and elite clubs should consider the implementation of a multidimensional approach encompassing dual career paths to facilitate athletes’ transnational relocation and career transitions.
Sex Difference in Running Stability Analyzed Based on a Whole-Body Movement: A Pilot Study
Authors: Promsri Arunee
Published: September 2022

A sex-specific manner in running tasks is considered a potential internal injury risk factor in runners. The current study aimed to investigate the sex differences in running stability in recreational runners during self-preferred speed treadmill running by focusing on a whole-body movement. To this end, principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to kinematic marker data of 22 runners (25.7 ± 3.3 yrs.; 12 females) for decomposing the whole-body movements of all participants into a set of principal movements (PMs), representing different movement synergies forming together to achieve the task goal. Then, the sex effects were tested on three types of PCA-based variables computed for individual PMs: the largest Lyapunov exponent (LyE) as a measure of running variability; the relative standard deviation (rSTD) as a measure of movement structures; and the root mean square (RMS) as a measure of the magnitude of neuromuscular control. The results show that the sex effects are observed in the specific PMs. Specifically, female runners have lower stability (greater LyE) in the mid-stance-phase movements (PM4−5) and greater contribution and control (greater rSTD and RMS) in the swing-phase movement (PM1) than male runners. Knowledge of an inherent sex difference in running stability may benefit sports-related injury prevention and rehabilitation.
Bizalmi vagyonkezelés : Az alapítók generációkon átívelő öröklési stratégiájának eszköze
Authors: Hajdu Tibor Zoltán
Published: September 2022

Az 1990-es évek rendszerváltó nemzedéke napjainkra elérte a nyugdíjas kort, aktuálissá vált a generációváltás. A családi vállalkozások utódlásával foglalkozó kutatások a vállalati belső faktorok – professzionalizálódás, külső menedzser bevonása, utódok szocializációja, a vagyonérték problémája – vizsgálatára fókuszálnak elsősorban. Azonban az utódlási lehetőségeket meghatározó intézményi környezetnek – az öröklési szabályoknak, a formális közvetítőrendszernek, az utódláshoz kapcsolódó adózási szabályoknak – is jelentős hatása van a családi vállalkozások hosszú távú fennmaradására és a generációk közötti vagyonátadásra. Jelen tanulmány célja, hogy rávilágítson a hazai családi vállalkozások sajátosságaira, az utódlási alternatívákat meghatározó belső vállalati tényezőkre. Bemutatja a formális intézményrendszert, valamint az intézményrendszer és a transzgenerációs vagyonátadás, az öröklési stratégia kapcsolatát. A vegyes kilépési alternatívák esetében a családi vállalkozás tulajdonosai és a menedzserei közé ékelődő „vagyonkezelői ékek” közül a bizalmi vagyonkezelés alkalmazásának a lehetőségeit, előnyeit és kockázatait elemezzük.
Mechanisms and tools of domestic amateur tourism development
Authors: Gladkova Lyudmila A. , Tropina Dariya V. , Ismailova Aida Z. , Svetlana N. Svetlana N. , Gladkov Mark A.
Published: September 2022

Today’s Russian market of tourist services is very diverse and demonstrates, according to experts, very positive development trends. However, neither natural nor cultural sites alone do not make a region attractive to tourists. Unfortunately, the level of tourist services leaves much to be desired, and where it is high, the price is above the average, since with restrictions on travel abroad the people have not many alternatives. The creation of an interaction model for all the participants of the travel market based on User Agreement and, as a consequence, the creation of communicative tools, such as mobile applications and phone calls, is the aim of the current research. The methodology is based on a set of methods, including analogy, comparison, programming, and modeling. Given the results, a new approach to promoting rural tourism will not only attract funds to small towns and villages but also contribute to the development of recreational systems and make traveling in Russia comfortable for both domestic and foreign tourists.