bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Marine Predator Algorithm by Using Engineering Optimisation Problems
Authors: Bujok Petr
Published: November 2023

This paper provides a real application of a popular swarm-intelligence optimisation method. The aim is to analyse the efficiency of various settings of the marine predator algorithm (MPA). Four crucial numerical parameters of the MPA are statistically analysed to propose the most efficient setting for solving engineering problems. Besides population size, particle velocity parameter P, Lévy flight parameter β, and fish aggregating device (FAD) probabilities are studied. Finally, 193 various settings, including fixed values and dynamic changes of the MPA parameters, are experimentally compared when solving 13 engineering problems. Standard statistical approaches are employed to highlight significant differences in various MPA settings. The setting of two MPA parameters (P, FADs) significantly influences MPA performance. Three newly proposed MPA settings outperform the original variant significantly. The best results provide the MPA variant with the dynamic linear change of P from 0.5 to 0. These parameters influence the velocity of prey and predator individuals in all three stages of the MPA search process. Decreasing the value of P showed that decreasing the velocity of individuals during the search provides good performance. Further, lower efficiency of the MPA with higher FAD values was detected. It means that more occasional use of fish aggregating devices (FADs) can increase the solvability of engineering problems. Regarding population size, lower values (N=10) provided significantly better results compared with the higher values (N=500).
Statistical Image Watermark Algorithm for FAPHFMs Domain Based on BKF–Rayleigh Distribution
Authors: Yang Siyu , Deng Ansheng , Cui Hui
Published: November 2023

In the field of image watermarking, imperceptibility, robustness, and watermarking capacity are key indicators for evaluating the performance of watermarking techniques. However, these three factors are often mutually constrained, posing a challenge in achieving a balance among them. To address this issue, this paper presents a novel image watermark detection algorithm based on local fast and accurate polar harmonic Fourier moments (FAPHFMs) and the BKF–Rayleigh distribution model. Firstly, the original image is chunked without overlapping, the entropy value is calculated, the high-entropy chunks are selected in descending order, and the local FAPHFM magnitudes are calculated. Secondly, the watermarking signals are embedded into the robust local FAPHFM magnitudes by the multiplication function, and then MMLE based on the RSS method is utilized to estimate the statistical parameters of the BKF–Rayleigh distribution model. Finally, a blind image watermarking detector is designed using BKF–Rayleigh distribution and LO decision criteria. In addition, we derive the closed expression of the watermark detector using the BKF–Rayleigh model. The experiments proved that the algorithm in this paper outperforms the existing methods in terms of performance, maintains robustness well under a large watermarking capacity, and has excellent imperceptibility at the same time. The algorithm maintains a well-balanced relationship between robustness, imperceptibility, and watermarking capacity.
Structural, Magnetocaloric, and Magnetic Properties in Heusler Ni50Mn35In10X5 (X = Ga, Fe and Al) Alloys
Authors: Bachagha Tarek , Chakaravarthy Ramki , Ren Wei , Saurina Joan , Suñol Joan-Josep
Published: November 2023

The structural, magnetocaloric, and magnetic characteristics in Heusler Ni50Mn35In10X5 (X = Ga, Fe, and Al) alloys were examined using X-ray diffraction and field-dependent magnetization measurements. All samples exhibited a mixture structure of cubic L21 and tetragonal L10 and underwent second-order magnetic transitions at TC(Al5) = 220 K, TC(Ga5) = 252 K, and TC(Fe5) = 298 K. The Ga5 alloy exhibited structural change as indicated by a thermal hysteresis that may be seen in the saturation magnetic field in the M(T) dependences. The transition at the TC point from a ferromagnetic to a paramagnetic state caused a drop in magnetization, supported by thermal hysteresis, at a low magnetic field (0.01 T). On the other hand, the Fe5 alloy presented a gradual decrease in magnetization with similar hysteresis behavior, also at a low magnetic field (0.01 T), whereas at 0.1 T of field, no features characteristic of this transition were detected. This could be due to a large difference in the metallic radius of Fe compared to that of In. Otherwise, magnetic investigations demonstrated that the replacement of In with Al may cause the structural transformation temperatures and TC to be shifted to low temperatures. The present results imply that the structural transformation temperatures and the transition itself are highly dependent on chemical composition. Furthermore, under a magnetic field change of 5 T, the maximum magnetic entropy changes of 0.6 J/kg K, 1.4 J/kg K, and 2.71 J/kg K for the Ga5, Fe5, and Al5 alloys, respectively, were determined by their TC. Refrigeration capacity values were found to be 25 J/kg, 74 J/kg, and 98 J/kg at µ0∆H = 5 T. These ribbons are viable candidates for multifunctional applications due to their cheaper cost and their physical characteristics disclosed during the magnetostructural transition, which takes place close to the room temperature.
Microbial Pathogens in Aquaponics Potentially Hazardous for Human Health
Authors: Dinev Toncho , Velichkova Katya , Stoyanova Antoniya , Sirakov Ivaylo
Published: November 2023

The union of aquaculture and hydroponics is named aquaponics—a system where microorganisms, fish and plants coexist in a water environment. Bacteria are essential in processes which are fundamental for the functioning and equilibrium of aquaponic systems. Such processes are nitrification, extraction of various macro- and micronutrients from the feed leftovers and feces, etc. However, in aquaponics there are not only beneficial, but also potentially hazardous microorganisms of fish, human, and plant origin. It is important to establish the presence of human pathogens, their way of entering the aforementioned systems, and their control in order to assess the risk to human health when consuming plants and fish grown in aquaponics. Literature analysis shows that aquaponic bacteria and yeasts are mainly pathogenic to fish and humans but rarely to plants, while most of the molds are pathogenic to humans, plants, and fish. Since the various human pathogenic bacteria and fungi found in aquaponics enter the water when proper hygiene practices are not applied and followed, if these requirements are met, aquaponic systems are a good choice for growing healthy fish and plants safe for human consumption. However, many of the aquaponic pathogens are listed in the WHO list of drug-resistant bacteria for which new antibiotics are urgently needed, making disease control by antibiotics a real challenge. Because pathogen control by conventional physical methods, chemical methods, and antibiotic treatment is potentially harmful to humans, fish, plants, and beneficial microorganisms, a biological control with antagonistic microorganisms, phytotherapy, bacteriophage therapy, and nanomedicine are potential alternatives to these methods.
Absorption of Water Vapor by Bambus[6]uril and a Density Functional Theory Study of Its Aqua Complexes
Authors: Turebayeva Pana , Guslyakov Alexey N. , Novikova Svetlana A. , Khlebnikov Andrei I. , Befus Ekaterina A. , Meshcheryakov Evgeniy P. , Bakibaev Abdigali A. , Kusepova Lyazat , Kassenova Nazira , Sharipova Sarzhan , Yerkassov Rakhmetulla
Published: November 2023

The absorption/desorption of water vapor by bambus[6]uril (Bu[6]) has been studied. According to kinetic experiments, the absorption capacity of Bu[6] is 4 moles of water per 1 mole of Bu[6] with the absorption duration of 20 min and the complete desorption duration of 100 min. Experimental rate constants for water vapor absorption and desorption by Bu[6] have been determined to be 0.166 min−1 and 0.0221 min−1, respectively. The obtained results are in agreement with theoretical calculations using the DFT method. A hypothetical structure of bambus[6]uril tetrahydrate (Bu[6]·4H2O) has been proposed based on the experimental and DFT data.
Progress of Dispersants for Coal Water Slurry
Authors: Liu Xiaotian , Wang Shan , Liu Ning , Wei Bo , An Tian
Published: November 2023

Dispersants, serving as an essential raw material in the formulation of coal water slurry, offer an economical and convenient solution for enhancing slurry concentration, thus stimulating significant interest in the development of novel and efficient dispersants. This paper intends to illuminate the evolution of dispersants by examining both the traditional and the newly conceived types and elaborating on their respective mechanisms of influence on slurry performance. Dispersants can be classified into anionic, cationic, amphoteric, and non-ionic types based on their dissociation properties. They can be produced by modifying either natural or synthetic products. The molecular structure of a dispersant allows for further categorization into one-dimensional, two-dimensional, or three-dimensional structure dispersants. This document succinctly outlines dispersants derived from natural products, three-dimensional structure dispersants, common anionic dispersants such as lignin and naphthalene, and amphoteric and non-ionic dispersants. Subsequently, the adsorption mechanism of dispersants, governed by either electrostatic attraction or functional group effects, is elucidated. The three mechanisms through which dispersants alter the surface properties of coal, namely the wetting dispersion effect, electrostatic repulsion effect, and steric hindrance effect, are also explained. The paper concludes with an exploration of the challenges and emerging trends in the domain of dispersants.
In Vitro Inhibitory Potential of Different Anthocyanin-Rich Berry Extracts in Murine CT26 Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Schmutz Cornelia , Will Frank , Varga Elisabeth , Jaunecker Carola , Pahlke Gudrun , Berger Walter , Marko Doris
Published: November 2023

Anti-oxidant, -inflammatory, and -carcinogenic activities of bioactive plant constituents, such as anthocyanins, have been widely discussed in literature. However, the potential interaction of anthocyanin-rich extracts with routinely used chemotherapeutics is still not fully elucidated. In the present study, anthocyanin-rich polyphenol extracts of blackberry (BB), bilberry (Bil), black currant (BC), elderberry (EB), and their respective main anthocyanins (cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, delphinidin-3-O-glucoside, cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside, and cyanidin-3-O-sambubioside) were investigated concerning their cytotoxic and DNA-damaging properties in murine CT26 cells either alone or in combination with the chemotherapeutic agent SN-38. BB exerted potent cytotoxic effects, while Bil, BC, and EB only had marginal effects on cell viability. Single anthocyanins comprised of the extracts could not induce comparable effects. Even though the BB extract further pronounced SN-38-induced cytotoxicity and inhibited cell adhesion at 100–200 µg/mL, no effect on DNA damage was observed. In conclusion, anti-carcinogenic properties of the extracts on CT26 cells could be ranked BB >> BC ≥ Bil ≈ EB. Mechanisms underlying the potent cytotoxic effects are still to be elucidated since the induction of DNA damage does not play a role.
Simultaneous Measurement and Distribution Analysis of Urinary Nicotine, Cotinine, Trans-3′-Hydroxycotinine, Nornicotine, Anabasine, and Total Nicotine Equivalents in a Large Korean Population
Authors: Lee Hyun-Seung , Chun Mi-Ryung , Lee Soo-Youn
Published: November 2023

Measurement of multiple nicotine metabolites and total nicotine equivalents (TNE) might be a more reliable strategy for tobacco exposure verification than measuring single urinary cotinine alone. We simultaneously measured nicotine, cotinine, 3-OH cotinine, nornicotine, and anabasine using 19,874 urine samples collected from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Of all samples, 18.6% were positive for cotinine, 17.4% for nicotine, 17.3% for nornicotine, 17.6% for 3-OH cotinine, and 13.2% for anabasine. Of the cotinine negative samples, less than 0.3% were positive for all nicotine metabolites, but not for anabasine (5.7%). The agreement of the classification of smoking status by cotinine combined with nicotine metabolites was 0.982–0.994 (Cohen’s kappa). TNE3 (the molar sum of urinary nicotine, cotinine, and 3-OH cotinine) was most strongly correlated with cotinine compared to the other nicotine metabolites; however, anabasine was less strongly correlated with other biomarkers. Among anabasine-positive samples, 30% were negative for nicotine or its metabolites, and 25% were undetectable. Our study shows that the single measurement of urinary cotinine is simple and has a comparable classification of smoking status to differentiate between current smokers and non-smokers relative to the measurement of multiple nicotine metabolites. However, measurement of multiple nicotine metabolites and TNE3 could be useful for monitoring exposure to low-level or secondhand smoke exposure and for determining individual differences in nicotine metabolism. Geometric or cultural factors should be considered for the differentiation of tobacco use from patients with nicotine replacement therapy by anabasine.
Study of Amiloride Binding to Human Serum Albumin: Insights from Thermodynamic, Spectroscopic, and Molecular Docking Investigations
Authors: Rahman Safikur , Iram Sana , Rehman Md Tabish , Hussain Afzal , Jan Arif Tasleem , Kim Jihoe
Published: November 2023

This study was undertaken to investigate the interaction between the sodium channel blocker amiloride (AML) and human serum albumin (HSA). A combination of multi-spectroscopic techniques and computational methods were employed to identify the AML binding site on HSA and the forces responsible for the formation of the HSA–AML complex. Our findings revealed that AML specifically binds to Sudlow’s site II, located in subdomain IIIA of HSA, and that the complex formed is stabilized using van der Waals hydrogen-bonding and hydrophobic interactions. FRET analysis showed that the distance between AML and Trp214 was optimal for efficient quenching. UV-Vis spectroscopy and circular dichroism indicated minor changes in the structure of HSA after AML binding, and molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) conducted over 100 ns provided additional evidence of stable HSA–AML-complex formation. This study enhances understanding of the interaction between AML and HSA and the mechanism responsible.
Asperulosidic Acid Ameliorates Renal Interstitial Fibrosis via Removing Indoxyl Sulfate by Up-Regulating Organic Anion Transporters in a Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction Mice Model
Authors: Wang Jing , Shi Birui , Pan Yueqing , Yang Zhuan , Zou Wei , Liu Menghua
Published: November 2023

Asperulosidic acid is a bioactive iridoid isolated from Hedyotis diffusa Willd. with anti-inflammatory and renal protective effects. However, its mechanism on renal interstitial fibrosis has not been elucidated yet. The present study aims to explore whether asperulosidic acid could retard renal fibrosis by reducing the circulating indoxyl sulfate (IS), which is a uremic toxin and accelerates chronic kidney disease progression by inducing renal fibrosis. In this paper, a unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model of Balb/C mice was established. After the mice were orally administered with asperulosidic acid (14 and 28 mg/kg) for two weeks, blood, liver and kidney were collected for biochemical, histological, qPCR and Western blot analyses. Asperulosidic acid administration markedly reduced the serum IS level and significantly alleviated the histological changes in glomerular sclerosis and renal interstitial fibrosis. It is noteworthy that the mRNA and protein levels of the organic anion transporter 1 (OAT1), OAT3 and hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α (HNF1α) in the kidney were significantly increased, while the mRNA expressions of cytochrome P450 2e1 (Cyp2e1) and sulfotransferase 1a1 (Sult1a1) in the liver were not altered after asperulosidic acid administration. These results reveal that asperulosidic acid could accelerate the renal excretion of IS by up-regulating OATs via HNF1α in UUO mice, thereby alleviating renal fibrosis, but did not significantly affect its production in the liver, which might provide important information for the development of asperulosidic acid.
The Physicochemical Characteristics and Heavy Metal Retention Capability of Black Liquor Lignin-Based Biochars
Authors: Wang Zhanghong , Li Jiale
Published: November 2023

Due to its high carbon content, lignin, particularly for lignin-containing solid waste, is considered an excellent raw material for the preparation of carbon materials like biochar. To produce high-quality lignin-based biochar (LGBCs), lignin extracted from black liquor was employed to prepare biochar at various pyrolysis temperatures (300~600 °C). The physicochemical properties of LGBCs were assessed using scanning electron microscopy, N2 adsorption/desorption, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Furthermore, the adsorption capability and potential mechanism of LGBCs in removing Cd(II) were investigated as well. The results indicate that LGBCs produced at higher pyrolysis temperatures exhibit rougher surfaces and more developed pore structures, which facilitate the exposure of numerous active adsorption sites. The adsorption of Cd(II) by LGBCs generally follows the order of LG-300C < LG-400C < LG-500C < LG-600C. According to the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model, the theoretical maximum adsorption capacity of LG-600C for Cd(II) is calculated to be 18.54 mg/g. Adsorption mechanism analysis reveals that the complexation interaction, dependent on the surface functional groups, plays a crucial role in the adsorption of Cd(II) by LGBCs prepared at higher pyrolysis temperatures. This study demonstrates that, by controlling the pyrolysis temperature during biochar preparation, high-quality lignin-based biochar can be readily obtained.
Compact Combustion Mechanisms of Typical n-Alkanes Developed by the Minimized Reaction Network Method
Authors: Shentu Jiangtao , Lu Yanrong , Li Yiwei , Li Juanqin , Mao Yebing , Li Xiangyuan
Published: November 2023

The existing combustion kinetic modeling method which aims at developing phenomenological combustion mechanisms characterized by multiple reactions confronts several challenges, including the conflicts between computing resources and mechanism scales during numerical simulation, etc. In order to address these issues, the minimized reaction network method for complex combustion system modeling based on the principle of simultaneous chemical equilibrium is proposed, which is aimed to develop combustion mechanisms with minimal reaction steps under a limited number of species. The concept of mechanism resolution is proposed in this method, and the reaction network with minimal reaction steps under a given mechanism resolution is constructed so that the scale of mechanisms is compressed greatly. Meanwhile, distinguishing from other mechanisms, the reversible form of elementary reactions is adopted and the classical two-parameter (A, Ea) Arrhenius equation fits the rate constants. Typical n-alkanes including n-butane, n-heptane, n-octane, n-decane, n-dodecane and n-hexadecane were taken as examples to indicate the development process of mechanisms and systematic kinetic validations were carried out. Results show that this method leads to very compact mechanisms with satisfactory accuracy, and it eliminates the process of mechanism reduction and is beneficial for mechanism optimization. This method and the derived kinetic mechanisms are hoped to contribute to combustion engineering applications.
Unveiling Lived Experiences: Exploring the Health and Lifestyle Effects of COVID-19 on Healthcare Workers
Authors: Shenkman Rebecca , Diewald Lisa , Murray Mary Beth , Oliver Tracy L.
Published: November 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about significant life disruptions among healthcare workers (HCWs), including changes in weight, eating habits, and physical activity. This qualitative study sought to evaluate the initial and longitudinal effects of health habits among HCWs throughout the pandemic. Data were collected through Qualtrics surveys at three points over a 2-year period with questions asking participants (n = 234) to describe whether they experienced changes in weight, eating behaviors, and physical activity and why they believe these changes occurred. The open-ended responses were analyzed following the summative content analysis approach. Four key themes emerged: (1) problematic eating patterns and habits, (2) disruptions in physical activity, (3) alterations in work environment and schedule, and (4) declines in mental health. Respondent reflections highlight the immediate and long-term pandemic-related effects on weight status for some, attributed to alterations in routines and health habits. Other HCWs reported a “reset” or indicated their habits may have been initially disrupted but normalized or improved over the 2-year time span. Findings underscore the need for strategies that support the physical and mental health of healthcare workers.
Biopsychosocial Variables in Male Schizophrenic Patients: A Comprehensive Comparison with Healthy Controls
Authors: Krysta Krzysztof , Trędzbor Beata , Martyniak Ewa , Cieślik Aleksandra , Koźmin-Burzyńska Agnieszka , Piekarska-Bugiel Katarzyna , Skałacka Katarzyna , Bieś Rafał , Krzystanek Marek
Published: November 2023

Objective: this study aims to comprehensively compare neuropsychological, psychopathological, anthropometric, biochemical, pharmacological, and lifestyle variables between 27 male schizophrenic patients (SZ group) and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy male controls (HC group). Methods: participants underwent a battery of neuropsychological tests including the Trail Making Test (TMT), Stroop Color-Word Interference Test, and Verbal Fluency Test. Psychopathological symptoms in the SZ group were evaluated using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Anthropometric measurements such as body weight, height, BMI, and waist circumference were taken. Biochemical markers measured included fasting glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and fasting insulin. Lifestyle factors were assessed through a questionnaire for the study of views and eating habits of people aged 16 to 65. Results: the HC group outperformed the SZ group in the TMT_A test and the Stroop test, but no significant differences were observed in the TMT_B test or in phonemic fluency tests. No correlation was found between age and PANSS scores within the SZ group. Anthropometrically, the SZ group had higher body weight, waist circumference, and BMI, with no difference in height. Biochemically, the HC group had higher HDL cholesterol levels but lower insulin and insulin resistance indices. Pharmacological assessment showed a more significant impact on body weight among SZ patients taking second-generation antipsychotics. Lifestyle factors such as diet and screen time were comparable between groups, but the SZ group reported longer sleep duration and lower leisure time activity. Conclusions: our study highlights distinct neuropsychological, pharmacological, anthropometric, and biochemical differences between male schizophrenic patients and healthy controls. The results underscore the complexity of schizophrenia and point toward the need for a multi-faceted approach to its management and understanding.
RNA Combined with Nanoformulation to Advance Therapeutic Technologies
Authors: Lima Eduarda Santos , dos Santos Déborah , Souza Atena Liriel , Macedo Maria Eduarda , Bandeira Mariana Evangelista , Junior Sérgio Santos Silva , Fiuza Bianca Sampaio Dotto , Rocha Vinicius Pinto Costa , dos Santos Fonseca Larissa Moraes , Nunes Danielle Devequi Gomes , Hodel Katharine Valéria Saraiva , Machado Bruna Aparecida Souza
Published: November 2023

Nucleic acid-based therapies have the potential to address numerous diseases that pose significant challenges to more traditional methods. RNA-based therapies have emerged as a promising avenue, utilizing nanoformulation treatments to target a range of pathologies. Nanoformulation offers several advantages compared to other treatment modalities, including targeted delivery, low toxicity, and bioactivity suitable for drug loading. At present, various types of nanoformulations are available, such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), magnetic NPs, nanoshells, and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs). RNA-based therapy utilizes intracellular gene nanoparticles with messenger RNA (mRNA) emerging prominently in cancer therapy and immunotechnology against infectious diseases. The approval of mRNA-based technology opens doors for future technological advancements, particularly self-amplifying replicon RNA (repRNA). RepRNA is a novel platform in gene therapy, comprising viral RNA with a unique molecular property that enables the amplification of all encoded genetic information countless times. As a result, repRNA-based therapies have achieved significant levels of gene expression. In this context, the primary objective of this study is to furnish a comprehensive review of repRNA and its applications in nanoformulation treatments, with a specific focus on encapsulated nanoparticles. The overarching goal is to provide an extensive overview of the use of repRNA in conjunction with nanoformulations across a range of treatments and therapies.
Comparative Assessment and High-Throughput Drug-Combination Profiling of TEAD-Palmitoylation Inhibitors in Hippo Pathway Deficient Mesothelioma
Authors: Evsen Lale , Morris Patrick J. , Thomas Craig J. , Ceribelli Michele
Published: November 2023

The hippo signaling pathway is a central tumor suppressor cascade frequently inactivated in selected human cancers, leading to the aberrant activation of TEAD transcription factors. Whereas several TEAD auto-palmitoylation inhibitors are currently in development, a comprehensive assessment of this novel drug-modality is missing. Here, we report a comparative analysis among six TEADi(s) using cell-based and biochemical assays in Hippo pathway deficient mesothelioma. Our analysis revealed varying potency and selectivity across TEADi, also highlighting their limited efficacy. To overcome this limitation, we performed an unbiased, quantitative high-throughput drug screening by combining the TEADi VT-103 with a library of approximately 3000 oncology-focused drugs. By exploiting this library’s mechanistic redundancy, we identified several drug-classes robustly synergized with TEADi. These included glucocorticoid-receptor (GR) agonists, Mek1/2 inhibitors, mTOR inhibitors, and PI3K inhibitors, among others. Altogether, we report a coherent single-agent dataset informing on potency and selectivity of TEAD-palmitoylation inhibitors as single-agents. We also describe a rational pipeline enabling the systematic identification of TEAD druggable co-dependencies. This data should support the pre-clinical development of drug combination strategies for the treatment of Hippo-deficient mesothelioma, and more broadly, for other cancers dependent on the oncogenic activity of YAP/TEAD.
Content and Yield of L-DOPA and Bioactive Compounds of Broad Bean Plants: Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity In Vitro
Authors: Fuentes-Herrera Paula Beatriz , Herrera-Cabrera Braulio Edgar , Martínez-Ayala Alma Leticia , Zamilpa Alejandro , Delgado-Alvarado Adriana
Published: November 2023

The broad bean plant contains L-DOPA, a compound that is essential for patients with Parkinson’s disease. However, little has been reported on other broad bean compounds that have beneficial effects on health. The objective was to evaluate plants of four Mexican broad bean varieties to determine the content and yield of total phenolic compounds (TPC), total flavonoids (TF), and L-DOPA, as well as to analyze the flavonoid profile and antioxidant (AA) and anti-inflammatory (AANTI) activity in vitro. Broad bean seeds were sown in the field and plants were harvested 20 days after emergence. The analyses were performed with visible UV spectrophotometry and HPLC. The variety José María produced the highest yield of TPC (9.30 g m−2), TF (8.08 g m−2), and L-DOPA (5.64 g m−2) per unit of area. The highest yields per plant were obtained with the Rojita variety: TPC (0.25 g plant−1), TF (0.21 g plant−1), and L-DOPA (0.17 g plant−1). This variety also had the highest antioxidant (IC50 = 87.68 µg mL−1) and anti-inflammatory (IC50 = 74.40 mg mL−1) activity, which was attributed to the L-DOPA compounds and to rutin and isoorientins, respectively. The flavonoid profile revealed the presence of rutin and isoorientins, which had not been previously detected in the broad bean plant.
A Set of Yellow Mustard (Sinapis alba L.) Germplasm with Polycotyledony
Authors: Fu Yong-Bi
Published: November 2023

A world collection of 132 yellow mustard (Sinapis alba L.) accessions was characterized in a greenhouse to identify germplasm with polycotyledony and to assess the genetic segregation of tricot and tetracot seedlings in selfed S1 and S2 generations. The effort identified a set of 46 yellow mustard accessions with frequent occurrences of polycotyledony. The revealed genetic segregations seemed to suggest the development of tricot and tetracot seedlings in yellow mustard was largely controlled by a combination of genes at multiple diallelic loci. The identified tricot germplasm can be used to facilitate the genetic and/or genomic analysis of polycotyledonous germplasm for a better understanding of genetic and developmental mechanisms conditioning polycotyledony and the development of yellow mustard lines for explorable tricot breeding.
Arabinogalactan-Proteins as Boron-Acting Enzymes, Cross-Linking the Rhamnogalacturonan-II Domains of Pectin
Authors: Begum Rifat Ara , Fry Stephen C.
Published: November 2023

Most pectic rhamnogalacturonan-II (RG-II) domains in plant cell walls are borate-bridged dimers. However, the sub-cellular locations, pH dependence, reversibility and biocatalyst involvement in borate bridging remain uncertain. Experiments discussed here explored these questions, utilising suspension-cultured plant cells. In-vivo pulse radiolabelling showed that most RG-II domains dimerise extremely quickly (<4 min after biosynthesis, thus while still intraprotoplasmic). This tallies with the finding that boron withdrawal causes cell wall weakening within 10–20 min, and supports a previously proposed biological role for boron/RG-II complexes specifically at the wall/membrane interface. We also discuss RG-II monomer ↔ dimer interconversion as monitored in vitro using gel electrophoresis and a novel thin-layer chromatography method to resolve monomers and dimers. Physiologically relevant acidity did not monomerise dimers, thus boron bridge breaking cannot be a wall-loosening mechanism in ‘acid growth’; nevertheless, recently discovered RG-II trimers and tetramers are unstable and may thus underpin reversible wall loosening. Dimerising monomers in vitro by B(OH)3 required the simultaneous presence of RG-II-binding ‘chaperones’: co-ordinately binding metals and/or ionically binding cationic peptides. Natural chaperones of the latter type include highly basic arabinogalactan protein fragments, e.g., KHKRKHKHKRHHH, which catalyse a reaction [2 RG-II + B(OH)3 → RG-II–B–RG-II], suggesting that plants can ‘enzymically’ metabolise boron.
The Response of Oxytropis aciphylla Ledeb. Leaf Interface to Water and Light in Gravel Deserts
Authors: Bei Zhanlin , Zhang Xin , Zhang Fang , Yan Xingfu
Published: November 2023

In arid areas, the scarcity of rainfall severely limits the growth of plants in the area. In arid sandy deserts, plants survive by deeply rooting to absorb groundwater. In arid gravel soil deserts (Gobi), the gravel in the soil layer limits the growth and water absorption of local plant roots. Therefore, the strategies adopted by local plants to obtain water to sustain life have become crucial. Oxytropis aciphylla Ledeb. is a perennial, strongly xerophytic, cushion-shaped semi-shrub plant widely distributed in arid gravel desert areas. Its plant height is relatively short, its crown width is not large, and its root system is also underdeveloped. There are small and curly pinnate compound leaves and dense hairy fibers on the surface of the leaves. In this study, we focused on the function of leaf surface trichomes by observing the leaf submicroscopic structure, conducting in situ water harvesting experiments, measuring reflectance spectra, and analyzing chloroplast genomes of O. aciphylla leaves. The experimental results indicate that the surface of the leaves of O. aciphylla is densely covered with hair-like fiber arrays, and these hair-like fiber surfaces have micro and nanoscale protrusions. These structures can quickly capture moisture in the air and filter out ultraviolet and infrared rays from the sun, without affecting the normal photosynthesis of the chloroplasts inside the leaves. The important findings of this study are the nanostructures on the surface of the hair-like fibers on the leaves of O. aciphylla, which not only have a water capture function but also reflect light. This has important theoretical significance for understanding how plant leaves in gravel deserts adapt to the environment.
3D Printed Polymer Piezoelectric Materials: Transforming Healthcare through Biomedical Applications
Authors: Ali Fawad , Koc Muammer
Published: November 2023

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a promising manufacturing platform in biomedical engineering. It offers significant advantages in fabricating complex and customized biomedical products with accuracy, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reproducibility. The rapidly growing field of three-dimensional printing (3DP), which emphasizes customization as its key advantage, is actively searching for functional materials. Among these materials, piezoelectric materials are highly desired due to their linear electromechanical and thermoelectric properties. Polymer piezoelectrics and their composites are in high demand as biomaterials due to their controllable and reproducible piezoelectric properties. Three-dimensional printable piezoelectric materials have opened new possibilities for integration into biomedical fields such as sensors for healthcare monitoring, controlled drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, microfluidic, and artificial muscle actuators. Overall, this review paper provides insights into the fundamentals of polymer piezoelectric materials, the application of polymer piezoelectric materials in biomedical fields, and highlights the challenges and opportunities in realizing their full potential for functional applications. By addressing these challenges, integrating 3DP and piezoelectric materials can lead to the development of advanced sensors and devices with enhanced performance and customization capabilities for biomedical applications.
Properties of Hyper-Elastic-Graded Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces
Authors: Haney Christopher W. , Siller Hector R.
Published: November 2023

The mechanical behaviors of three distinct lattice structures—Diamond, Gyroid, and Schwarz—synthesized through vat polymerization, were meticulously analyzed. This study aimed to elucidate the intricacies of these structures in terms of their stress–strain responses, energy absorption, and recovery characteristics. Utilizing the described experiments and analytical approaches, it was discerned, via the described experimental and analytical procedure, that the AM lattices showcased mechanical properties and stress–strain behaviors that notably surpassed theoretical predictions, pointing to substantial disparities between conventional models and experimental outcomes. The Diamond lattice displayed superior stiffness with higher average loading and unloading moduli and heightened energy absorption and dissipation rates, followed by the Gyroid and Schwarz lattices. The Schwarz lattice showed the most consistent mechanical response, while the Diamond and Gyroid showed capabilities of reaching larger strains and stresses. All uniaxial cyclic compressive tests were performed at room temperature with no dwell times. The efficacy of hyper-elastic-graded models significantly outperformed projections offered by traditional Ashby–Gibson models, emphasizing the need for more refined models to accurately delineate the behaviors of additively manufactured lattices in advanced engineering applications.
Analysis and Prediction of Energy, Environmental and Economic Potentials in the Iron and Steel Industry of China
Authors: Gu Yueqing , Liu Wenjie , Wang Bowen , Tian Borui , Yang Xinyue , Pan Chongchao
Published: November 2023

The green and low-carbon transformation of the iron and steel industry stands as a pivotal cornerstone in the development of China. It is an inevitable trajectory guiding the future of industry. This study examined the energy consumption and carbon emission trends in the iron and steel industry. Variations under different scenarios were analyzed while emphasizing production control, changes in production structure and energy efficiency improvement. The analysis integrated the extreme energy efficiency model. This study proposed methods to enhance energy efficiency in the iron and steel industry. The costs of energy efficiency improvement and production structure changes were assessed using marginal energy saving and abatement cost curves. The findings showed that the carbon emission reduction contribution of crude steel production decline is the highest, while energy efficiency improvement technology offers the smallest, whose contribution, however, is substantial and cannot be overlooked by 2030. Energy efficiency improvement in the Chinese iron and steel industry results in an average unit energy saving and abatement cost of 27.0 yuan. It results in a total abatement cost of 21.02 billion yuan and a potential abatement of 780 Mt. Considering abatement potential, altering production structure offers significantly higher cumulative abatement compared to energy efficiency improvement technology. This is because the per unit abatement cost of production structure change is 702.7 yuan. However, this high cost poses a challenge to widespread adoption. The integration of the iron and steel industry into the carbon trading system necessitates reinforcing market constraints and expediting process adjustments. These steps are crucial to achieving the green and low-carbon transformation of the industry.
A Partial Approximate Least Absolute Deviation-Based Identification Algorithm for a Multivariable Closed-Loop System with Spike Noise
Authors: Xu Baochang , Wang Yaxin , Meng Zhuoran , Chen Yiqi , Yin Shixuan
Published: November 2023

Considering the stability and safety of industrial production, the open-loop system cannot meet the requirements of industrial production, so more and more attention has been paid to multivariable closed-loop system identification. This study focuses on the identification of a multivariate closed-loop system with spike noise in which the model order of the feedback channel is lower than that of the forward channel. Combining principal component analysis (PCA), which is used to eliminate the correlation between the data matrix elements, and the derivable approximate least absolute criterion function, partial approximate least absolute deviation (PALAD) for multivariable closed-loop system identification is proposed. By introducing a deterministic function to replace the absolute value in partial approximate least absolute deviation, the non-differentiable problem of the least absolute deviation function can be solved, and the identifiability of the multivariable closed-loop system in the case mentioned above is theoretically verified. Simulation experiments show the validity of the PALAD algorithm. Compared with the partial least squares (PLS) method, PALAD can effectively restrain the spike noise that follows an SαS distribution and shows stronger robustness when white and spike noises exist simultaneously.
Death Commemoration Strategies in Medieval Portugal: A Mirror of Lay Participation in Religious Parochial Life (The Case of Coimbra)
Authors: Campos Maria Amélia
Published: November 2023

This article will, through the analysis of three parishes in Coimbra between the twelfth and the fourteenth century, investigate practices surrounding the commemoration of death. Through the study of extant wills, post-mortem donations, and necrological documents—such as Obituaries and Anniversary Books—this work seeks to describe the populations and communities who entrusted their final salvation to these churches. This characterization will allow a description of the typology of the suffrage ceremonies founded by these souls, meanwhile presenting an evaluation of the maintenance and management of these foundations by the churches and its chapters throughout the centuries. This paper intends to highlight what survives after death—not only in terms of memory, but also in light of social relationships, interpersonal and familial connections, and professional solidarities. Focusing on a population that is otherwise poorly documented—and moreover, represents a socio-professional background of a low echelon—this text intends to present a global characterization of the cult of the dead, with a further aim of drawing attention to the intervention and enrichment of parish pastoral care by the lay population in this Portuguese city.
Correction: Xiong, Wei. 2023. Food Culture, Religious Belief and Community Relations: An Ethnographic Study of the Overseas Chinese Catholic. Religions 14: 207
Authors: Xiong Wei
Published: November 2023

In the original publication (Xiong 2023), the funder is not directly related to the research in this paper [...]
Visualising the Dhammakāya through a Buddha Image: The Dhammakāya Text and Its Significance for Traditional Tai–Khmer Buddhist Practices
Authors: Malasart Woramat
Published: November 2023

The Dhammakāya Gāthā is a Pāli Buddhist prose text that has been circulated within the cross-cultural/translocal sphere of Tai–Khmer Buddhism for over five centuries. Its earliest extant version appears on the “Braḥ Dhammakāya inscription”, an engraved stone slab from the Stūpa of Wat Suea, Phitsanulok, Thailand, dated to 1549 CE. The Dhammakāya text consists of three parts. The first part identifies the knowledge and qualities/virtues of the Buddha with physical attributes of his body. The second part is the verses in praise of the Buddha’s resplendent body qua the dhammakāya. The third section exhorts one in the yogāvacara lineage (a practitioner of spiritual discipline, i.e., a meditator) to recollect the dhammakāya, in order to attain the state of Buddhahood. The Gāthā was well known in the Tai–Khmer cultural sphere during the pre-modern period, but today, it is little used in modern practices. In this paper, I will analyse textual and paratextual elements of the Dhammakāya Gāthā to uncover the doctrinal meanings underlying the Gāthā and reveal the unique and unusual meditation practice called the Dhammakāyānussati, “Recollection of the Dhammakāya”. I argue that the study of the Dhammakāya Gāthā enables us to understand the unique Buddhist practice: reciting [the Dhammakāya text], constructing [the image of the Buddha] and visualising [the dhammakāya embodied in the image], contributing to what we call “Buddhānussati” in the context of Tai–Khmer Buddhism.
Chemical Composition of Hydrophobic Coating Solutions and Its Impact on Carbonate Stones Protection and Preservation
Authors: Armal Forough , Dias Luís , Mirão José , Pires Vera , Sitzia Fabio , Martins Sérgio , Costa Mafalda , Barrulas Pedro
Published: November 2023

The decay diagnosis and conservation of stone-built heritage is becoming a worldwide concern, especially when stone decay causes chromatic changes in the original stone aesthetics, which directly impacts its sociocultural value. Among all the causes of stone decay, water action is identified as the major cause of stone decay and chromatic changes in stone building materials; hence, protective eco-friendly hydrophobic coatings are the efficient and fundamental options to prevent penetrating water into the stone. This paper aims to contribute to tackling water action on natural building stones by studying three different commercial hydrophobic coatings and finding out the correlation between the effectivity, compatibility, and durability of these coatings and the physical, chemical, and mineralogical features of four distinct types of limestone, one calcitic dolomite, four kinds of marble, and one granitoid. Nine different natural stones have been chosen due to their variations in physical, chemical, and mineralogical natures. A multi-analytical approach was adopted through digital microscopy and colourimetry assays to assess the compatibility of the hydrophobic coatings, accelerating ageing in climatic chambers to assess their durability, optical tensiometer analyses to evaluate the hydrophobic effectiveness, and h-XRF and XRPD for determining the chemical and mineralogical composition of stone samples. The results obtained demonstrate that the coating composed of silane/siloxane with modified fluorinated additives (FAKOLITH FK-3 Plus Nano) is the most effective, compatible, and durable coating among the selected hydrophobic coatings. These results can be considered the pioneering steps for developing eco-friendly and cost-effective coatings.
The Bilateral Effects of Population Aging on Regional Carbon Emissions in China: Promotion or Inhibition Effect?
Authors: Zhang Xin , Ding Chenhui , Liu Chao , Teng Xianzhong , Lv Ruoman , Cai Yiming
Published: November 2023

To achieve the high-quality model of green, low-carbon, and sustainable development in China, it is necessary to clarify the relationship between population aging and carbon emissions in regions. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces and cities in China from 2011 to 2020, this article employs a bilateral stochastic frontier model to estimate the promotion, inhibition, and net effects of population aging on regional carbon emissions. The results show that regional carbon emissions are decreased by 15.77% due to the inhibition effect, while they are increased by 10.63% due to the promotion effect. As a result, the net effect is that regional carbon emissions are decreased by 5.14% overall due to the composite action of the above effects. In addition, population aging in eastern, western, and central regions significantly reduces regional carbon emissions. And the inhibition effect of population aging on carbon emissions increases continuously and gradually holds the dominant position during the study period. Moreover, the inhibition effect in the eastern region is stronger than that in the central and western regions, which can be strengthened by improving the level of population aging and human capital, as well as urbanization. The conclusions are conducive to providing new perspectives and empirical evidence for understanding the connection between population aging and carbon emissions, as well as policy recommendations for tackling population aging, carbon emission reduction, carbon peaking, and carbon-neutral strategic goals.