bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fusarium Keratitis in Taiwan: Molecular Identification, Antifungal Susceptibilities, and Clinical Features
Authors: Huang Tsung-En , Ou Jie-Hao , Hung Ning , Yeh Lung-Kun , Ma David Hui-Kang , Tan Hsin-Yuan , Chen Hung-Chi , Hung Kuo-Hsuan , Fan Yun-Chen , Sun Pei-Lun , Hsiao Ching-Hsi
Published: May 2022

We performed molecular identification and antifungal susceptibilities of pathogens and investigated clinical features of 43 culture-proven Fusarium keratitis cases from 2015–2020 in Taiwan. The pathogens were identified by sequencing of their internal transcribed spacer regions of ribosomal DNA and translation elongation factor 1α gene; their antifungal susceptibilities (to seven agents) were determined by broth microdilution method. We also collected clinical data to compare the drug susceptibilities and clinical features of Fusarium solani species complex (FSSC) isolates with those of other Fusarium species complexes (non-FSSC). The FSSC accounted for 76.7% pathogens, among which F. falciforme (32.6%) and F. keratoplasticum (27.9%) were the most common species. Among clinically used antifungal agents, amphotericin B registered the lowest minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), and the new azoles efinaconazole, lanoconazole and luliconazole, demonstrated even lower MICs against Fusarium species. The MICs of natamycin, voriconazole, chlorhexidine, lanoconazole, and luliconazole were higher for the FSSC than the non-FSSC, but no significant differences were noted in clinical outcomes, including corneal perforation and final visual acuity. In Taiwan, the FSSC was the most common complex in Fusarium keratitis; its MICs for five tested antifungal agents were higher than those of non-FSSC, but the clinical outcomes did not differ significantly.
Big Data-Driven Urban Management: Potential for Urban Sustainability
Authors: Wu Min , Yan Bingxin , Huang Ying , Sarker Md Nazirul Islam
Published: May 2022

With the world’s rapidly growing urbanization, urban sustainability is now expected for urban life. Due to this rapid growth, meeting the emerging challenges for urban management and sustainability worldwide is challenging. Big data-driven technologies can be an excellent solution to address these upcoming challenges. Therefore, this study explores the potential of big data technologies for ensuring sustainability in urban management. The study conducted a systematic literature review guided by PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis) on publications over the last 21 years. The study argues that urban management is an integrated function of public and private agencies to address the significant challenges of urban life and to develop the city as more competitive, habitable, and sustainable. Urban management can utilize big data analytics (BDA) for digital instrumentation, data-informed policy decisions, governance, real-time management, and evidence-based decisions. Urban sustainability can ensure the smooth operation of urban affairs through strategic planning under three major dimensions: social, economic, and environmental. Big data technologies can ensure smart transport, traffic, waste management, energy, environment, infrastructure, safety, healthcare, planning, and citizen participation in regular urban affairs to provide a better urban life. This study develops several indicators that will be helpful for concerned stakeholders in policy, planning, designing, and implementing sustainable urban development.
Should the Elementary School EFL Classroom Contribute to Developing Multilingualism? Pre-Service Teacher Cognitions about Pluralistic Approaches to EFL Teaching and Cross-Linguistic Awareness
Authors: Möller-Omrani Christine , Sivertsen Ann-Kristin H.
Published: May 2022

Internationally, multi-/plurilingualism has been defined as an important educational goal and plurilingual education as a right for all learners. The present study investigates the readiness of Norwegian pre-service teachers (N = 54) to lay the foundations for multilingualism and life-long language learning (LLLL) for all pupils in the elementary school English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classroom. For this purpose, we studied pre-service teachers’ conceptualization of multilingualism and their cognitions about laying the foundations for LLLL, using pluralistic approaches, and the importance of cross-linguistic awareness. The following data collection instruments were employed: (a) a survey with open- and closed-ended questions and (b) a short Likert scale survey with items based on the Framework of References for Pluralistic Approaches to Languages and Culture (FREPA). We found that the participants’ conceptualization of multilingualism reflected key dimensions in the field. The great majority of them had a positive view of the contribution that elementary school EFL teaching can make to multilingualism. The overwhelming majority were also positive about laying the foundations for LLLL and agreed that cross-linguistic awareness is important for pupils. However, almost one-third of the pre-service teachers were skeptical about pluralistic approaches to teaching.
Experimental Investigation of a Large Tilting-Pad Journal Bearing—Comparison of a Flooded and Non-Flooded Design
Authors: Stottrop Michael , Buchhorn Nico , Bender Beate
Published: May 2022

In tilting-pad journal bearings (TPJB), power loss corresponds to the internal friction in the shearing of the oil. Besides the lubrication gap, intermediate spaces between the pads account for a notable amount of frictional losses. Against the background of increasing demands for efficiency and sustainable use of resources, the reduction of power loss takes a key position in the further development of bearings. In our research, we compare two bearing lubrication concepts of a five-pad TPJB. Our objective is to work out the influence of different lubrication methods and bearing housing designs on the bearing operation characteristics. We conduct experimental testing of a 500 mm TPJB in two different bearing configurations with respect to the lubrication concept: an oil-flooded and non-flooded bearing design. In the flooded bearing design, oil is supplied via spray-bars and axial seals ensure the inter-pad spaces to be completely filled with oil. The non-flooded design comes without axial seals but oil drain channels to avoid oil accumulation in the bearing. In the latter design, oil is fed in via leading edge grooves (LEG). For the non-flooded bearing design, the experimental data show that the unloaded pads are not completely filled with oil and therefore, no pressure build-up occurs. The absence of additional load on the lower pads compared to the flooded design results in an increase of minimum film thickness. With the non-flooded design, power loss at high speeds is reduced to almost half. As a result, the efficiency of the entire turbomachinery application can be considerably improved.
Effect of Surface Modification for Carbon Cathode Materials on Charge–Discharge Performance of Li-Air Batteries
Authors: Fukushima Kaito , Lee So Yoon , Tanaka Kenichi , Sasaki Kodai , Ishizaki Takahiro
Published: May 2022

Li-air batteries have attracted considerable attention as rechargeable secondary batteries with a high theoretical energy density of 11,400 kWh/g. However, the commercial application of Li-air batteries is hindered by issues such as low energy efficiency and a short lifetime (cycle numbers). To overcome these issues, it is important to select appropriate cathode materials that facilitate high battery performance. Carbon materials are expected to be ideal materials for cathodes due to their high electrical conductivity and porosity. The physicochemical properties of carbon materials are known to affect the performance of Li-air batteries because the redox reaction of oxygen, which is an important reaction for determining the performance of Li-air batteries, occurs on the carbon materials. In this study, we evaluated the effect of the surface modification of carbon cathode materials on the charge–discharge performance of Li-air batteries using commercial Ketjenblack (KB) and KB subjected to vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) irradiation as cathodes. The surface wettability of KB changed from hydrophobic to hydrophilic as a result of the VUV irradiation. The ratio of COOH and OH groups on the KB surface increased after VUV irradiation. Raman spectra demonstrated that no structural change in the KB before and after VUV irradiation was observed. The charge and discharge capacities of a Li-air battery using VUV-irradiated KB as the cathode decreased compared to original KB, whereas the cycling performance of the Li-air battery improved considerably. The sizes and shapes of the discharge products formed on the cathodes changed considerably due to the VUV irradiation. The difference in the cycling performance of the Li-air battery was discussed from the viewpoint of the chemical properties of KB and VUV-irradiated KB.
Numerical Study of Fabrication-Related Effects of the Structural-Profile on the Performance of a Dielectric Photonic Crystal-Based Fluid Sensor
Authors: Khan Yousuf , Butt Muhammad A. , Kazanskiy Nikolay L. , Khonina Svetlana N.
Published: May 2022

In this work, fabrication of a dielectric photonic crystal device and numerical study of its spectral characteristics as a refractive index sensor are presented for near infrared range. The proposed nanosensor device is composed of low-cost dielectric materials, i.e., silicon dioxide and niobium pentoxide, and is fabricated using focused ion-beam milling lithography. In the first part, the fabrication process of the device is discussed, along with the process parameters and their effects on the structural properties of the resulting photonic crystal elements. In the second part, the device is numerically tested as a sensor for the biological refractive index range of 1.33 to 1.4. The performance considerations of the biosensor device are studied for 12 different structural profiles based on the fabrication results. It is shown that the angular-wall-profile of the fabricated structures downgrades the performance of the sensor, and the optimum value of hole depth should be in the range of 930–1500 nm to get the best performance. A sensitivity of 185.117 nm/RIU and a figure of merit of 9.7 were recorded for the optimum design of the device; however, a maximum sensitivity of 296.183 nm/RIU and a figure-of-merit of 13.184 RIU−1 were achieved. The device is recommended for a variety of biosensing applications due to its inert material properties, stable design and easy integration with fiber-optic setups.
Experimental Mechanical Properties and Numerical Simulation of C80 Concrete with Different Contents of Stone Powder
Authors: Wu Hongmei , Liu Kai , Yang Fang , Shen Bo , Ma Kejian , Zhang Jiyang , Liu Bo
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we show the influence of stone powder content on the mechanical properties of concrete by experiments and numerical simulations. In numerical simulation, this paper proposed a method whereby the stone powder in the numerical simulation of concrete is considered by the mechanical performances of mortar with the stone powder. The results of numerical models established based on inclusion theory and random aggregate distribution were basically consistent with the experiment, which indicated that the simulation method of concrete under different stone powder was feasible. In the range of stone powder content from 0% to 15%, the model based on inclusion theory is very close to the experimental results, and the model based on 2D random aggregate distribution is closer to the experimental value once the stone powder content is 7%. The research showed that with increased stone powder, cubic compressive strength had greater dispersion between the simulation and the experiment; axial compressive and split tensile strength reached the best levels at 5%. The best stone powder content was 5% for C80 high-strength concrete by comprehensively considering concrete’s consistency and its mechanical properties.
Polynomial Noises for Nonlinear Systems with Nonlinear Impulses and Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Feng Lichao , Wang Qiaona , Zhang Chunyan , Gong Dianxuan
Published: May 2022

It is known that random noises have a significant impact on differential systems. Recently, the influences of random noises for impulsive systems have been started. Nevertheless, the existing references on this issue ignore the significant phenomena of nonlinear impulses and time-varying delays. Therefore, we see the necessity to study the influences of random noises for impulsive systems with the above two factors. Stimulated by the above, a polynomial random noise is introduced to suppress the potential explosive behavior of the nonlinear impulsive differential system with time-varying delay. Fortunately, the stochastically controlled impulsive delay differential system admits a unique global solution, is bounded, and grows at most in the polynomial form.
Analysis of Non-Linear Radiation and Activation Energy Analysis on Hydromagnetic Reiner–Philippoff Fluid Flow with Cattaneo–Christov Double Diffusions
Authors: Nasr Mohamed E. , Gnaneswara Reddy Machireddy , Abbas W. , Megahed Ahmed M. , Awwad Essam , Khalil Khalil M.
Published: May 2022

Using magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), the thermal energy and mass transport boundary layer flow parameters of Reiner–Philippoff fluid (non-Newtonian) are numerically investigated. In terms of energy and mass transfer, non-linear radiation, Cattaneo–Christov double diffusions, convective conditions at the surface, and the species reaction pertaining to activation energy are all addressed. The stated governing system of partial differential equations (PDEs) is drained into a non-linear differential system using appropriate similarity variables. Numerical solutions are found for the flow equations that have been determined. Two-dimensional charts are employed to demonstrate the flow field, temperature and species distributions, and rate of heat and mass transfers for the concerned parameters for both Newtonian and Reiner–Philippoff fluid examples. The stream line phenomenon is also mentioned in this paper. A table has also been utilized to illustrate the comparison with published results, which shows that the current numerical data are in good accord. The findings point to a new role for heat and mass transfer. According to the findings, increasing values of solutal and thermal relaxation time parameters diminish the associated mass and thermal energy layers. The current study has significant ramifications for chemical engineering systems.
Electrical Properties of Iodine-Doped Cu/f-CNT Coated Aluminum Wires by Electrophoresis with Copper Sulfate Solution
Authors: Rodrigues Fabrício , Pinheiro Paula , Sousa Mário , Angélica Rômulo , Paz Simone , Reis Marcos
Published: May 2022

This work investigated the effects of iodine on copper/functionalized carbon nanotubes (Cu/f-CNT) that were used in the coating of 1350 Aluminum Alloy wires, using the process of electrophoretic exposure with a solution of copper sulfate and iodine, under an electrical current of 1.2 A and a voltage of 10 V. The Al@Cu/f-CNT was characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy in Secondary Electron mode, X-ray Diffraction and Raman spectroscopy, in addition to electrical measurements, at room temperature and under heating, via kelvin bridge. The results showed an increase of approximately 18% in the electrical conductivity of the IACS compared to the standard aluminum conductor, due to the iodine doping of the outer walls of the f-CNT, causing an expansion between the layers, and reflecting the increase in the conduction channels. This method of electrodeposition of Cu/f-CNT on the surface of metallic wires shows promise for the production of nanostructured cables with high ampacity, lightness and high performance, for application in power transmission lines.
Metabolism of Enantiomers of Rhododendrol in Human Skin Homogenate
Authors: Gu Lihao , Maeda Kazuhisa
Published: May 2022

We reported that raspberry ketone (RK) is produced from rhododendrol (RD) in excised mouse skin. We confirmed that RK is also produced from RD in human skin homogenates. We also observed more conversion of RD to RK when the oxidized form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a coenzyme of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), was added to human skin homogenates. Chiral column analysis of the consumption of RD enantiomers in human skin homogenates also showed that more of the R enantiomers of RD remained than the S enantiomers of RD. This suggests that the S-enantiomer of RD is more easily oxidized in human skin. We confirmed that RD is partially metabolized to RK in human skin, thus suggesting that ADH in the skin may be the main cause of the appearance of this oxidation product.
A Snapback-Free and Low Turn-Off Loss 15 kV 4H–SiC IGBT with Multifunctional P-Floating Layer
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Shen Pei , Zou Zhijie , Song Mingxin , Zhang Linlin
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a 4H–SiC IGBT with a multifunctional P-floating layer (MP-IGBT) is proposed and investigated by Silvaco TCAD simulations. Compared with the conventional 4H–SiC field stop IGBT (FS-IGBT), the MP-IGBT structure features a P-floating layer structure under the N-buffer layer. The P-floating layer increases the distributed path resistance below the buffer layer to eliminate the snapback phenomenon. In addition, the P-floating layer acts as an amplifying stage for the hole currents’ injection. The snapback-free structure features a half-cell pitch of 10 μm. For the same forward voltage drop, the turn-off loss of the MP-IGBT structure is reduced by 42%.
Process Development for Benzyl Alcohol Production by Whole-Cell Biocatalysis in Stirred and Packed Bed Reactors
Authors: Rodrigues Carlos J. C. , de Carvalho Carla C. C. R.
Published: May 2022

The ocean is an excellent source for new biocatalysts due to the tremendous genetic diversity of marine microorganisms, and it may contribute to the development of sustainable industrial processes. A marine bacterium was isolated and selected for the conversion of benzaldehyde to benzyl alcohol, which is an important chemical employed as a precursor for producing esters for cosmetics and other industries. Enzymatic production routes are of interest for sustainable processes. To overcome benzaldehyde low water solubility, DMSO was used as a biocompatible cosolvent up to a concentration of 10% (v/v). A two-phase system with n-hexane, n-heptane, or n-hexadecane as organic phase allowed at least a 44% higher relative conversion of benzaldehyde than the aqueous system, and allowed higher initial substrate concentrations. Cell performance decreased with increasing product concentration but immobilization of cells in alginate improved four-fold the robustness of the biocatalyst: free and immobilized cells were inhibited at concentrations of benzyl alcohol of 5 and 20 mM, respectively. Scaling up to a 100 mL stirred reactor, using a fed-batch approach, enabled a 1.5-fold increase in benzyl alcohol productivity when compared with batch mode. However, product accumulation in the reactor hindered the conversion. The use of a continuous flow reactor packed with immobilized cells enabled a 9.5-fold increase in productivity when compared with the fed-batch stirred reactor system.
Rare Earth Element Geochemistry of Late Cenozoic Island Carbonates in the South China Sea
Authors: Liu Xiao-Feng , Zhai Shikui , Wang Xi-Kai , Liu Xinyu , Liu Xiao-Ming
Published: May 2022

Marine carbonates, precipitating from seawater through inorganic geochemical and biogeochemical processes, are considered to have recorded the seawater geochemical signatures reflecting the marine environmental conditions during their formation. However, they are susceptible to post-depositional diagenetic alteration. The redox conditions and chemical composition of the diagenetic fluid may be different from those of the overlying seawater. Therefore, assessing whether carbonate rocks that have experienced variable diagenesis could still preserve primary seawater geochemistry is a prerequisite before inferring ancient marine environments using geochemical tracers such as the cerium anomaly (Ce/Ce*). Here, we investigate rare earth elements plus yttrium (REY) geochemical features of reefal carbonates from the XK-1 core in the Xisha Islands of the South China Sea. We aim to evaluate whether island carbonates have the potential to preserve reliable primary seawater REY geochemical characteristics after experiencing meteoric diagenesis, marine burial diagenesis, or dolomitization. The results show that even after variable diagenetic alteration, all carbonate samples exhibit seawater-like REY patterns, which are characterized by negative Ce anomalies (Ce/Ce* < 1), distinctively high Y/Ho ratios (>44), and uniform depletion of light rare earth elements (LREE) relative to heavy rare earth elements (HREE) ((Pr/Yb)N < 1). This suggests that the original seawater REY signatures are retained, regardless of varying degrees of changes in the mineralogical composition, diagenetic fluid composition, and redox state. The unmodifiable REY characteristics in carbonates during diagenesis can be attributed to three aspects: (1) during meteoric diagenesis, the low REY content of meteoric fluids and the short-term reactions between fluids and carbonates make it difficult to significantly alter the REY composition of carbonates; (2) during marine burial diagenesis, the ubiquitous cementation creates a relatively closed environment that facilitates the inheritance of REY signatures from primary carbonates; (3) during dolomitization, the dolomitizing fluids derived from penecontemporaneous seawater would not destroy but rather promote the preservation of the original seawater REY signatures in dolostones. The Ce/Ce* variations indicate that the Xisha carbonates have been deposited under constantly oxic conditions since the Neogene, consistent with paleontological and redox-sensitive element geochemical evidence.
Microstructure and Intrinsic Strain of Nanocrystals in Ferroelectric (Na,K)NbO3 Nanofibers
Authors: Grishin Alexander M.
Published: May 2022

Densely woven highly crystallized biocompatible sodium–potassium niobate Na0.35K0.65NbO3 fibers with an average diameter of 100–200 nm and several hundreds of microns in length were sintered by the sol–gel calcination-assisted electrospinning technique. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed preferential cube-on-cube [001] orientation of nanocrystals within the fiber’s body, separated by a low angle grain boundary. The Williamson–Hall method was employed to analyze the broadening of XRD reflections and to accurately determine the size and intrinsic strain of nanocrystal fiber aggregates. The main objective of this article is to test the potential capacity of direct XRD analysis to noninvasively control crystallite size and lattice distortion in core-shell coaxial nanofibers.
Thermal and Hydraulic Performances of Carbon and Metallic Oxides-Based Nanomaterials
Authors: Afan Haitham Abdulmohsin , Aldlemy Mohammed Suleman , Ahmed Ali M. , Jawad Ali H. , Naser Maryam H. , Homod Raad Z. , Mussa Zainab Haider , Abdulkadhim Adnan Hashim , Scholz Miklas , Yaseen Zaher Mundher
Published: May 2022

For companies, notably in the realms of energy and power supply, the essential requirement for highly efficient thermal transport solutions has become a serious concern. Current research highlighted the use of metallic oxides and carbon-based nanofluids as heat transfer fluids. This work examined two carbon forms (PEG@GNPs & PEG@TGr) and two types of metallic oxides (Al2O3 & SiO2) in a square heated pipe in the mass fraction of 0.1 wt.%. Laboratory conditions were as follows: 6401 ≤ Re ≤ 11,907 and wall heat flux = 11,205 W/m2. The effective thermal–physical and heat transfer properties were assessed for fully developed turbulent fluid flow at 20–60 °C. The thermal and hydraulic performances of nanofluids were rated in terms of pumping power, performance index (PI), and performance evaluation criteria (PEC). The heat transfer coefficients of the nanofluids improved the most: PEG@GNPs = 44.4%, PEG@TGr = 41.2%, Al2O3 = 22.5%, and SiO2 = 24%. Meanwhile, the highest augmentation in the Nu of the nanofluids was as follows: PEG@GNPs = 35%, PEG@TGr = 30.1%, Al2O3 = 20.6%, and SiO2 = 21.9%. The pressure loss and friction factor increased the highest, by 20.8–23.7% and 3.57–3.85%, respectively. In the end, the general performance of nanofluids has shown that they would be a good alternative to the traditional working fluids in heat transfer requests.
Preparation of Surfactant-Free Nano Oil Particles in Water Using Ultrasonic System and the Mechanism of Emulsion Stability
Authors: Hwangbo Seon-Ae , Lee Seung-Yul , Kim Bu-An , Moon Chang-Kwon
Published: May 2022

Emulsion technology is widely used in the preparation of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, drug delivery, and other daily necessities, and surfactants are frequently used to prepare these emulsions because of the lack of reliable surfactant-free emulsification techniques. This is disadvantageous because some surfactants pose health hazards, cause environmental pollution, have costly components, and place limitations on process development. In this paper, an efficient method for surfactant-free nano-emulsification is presented. In addition, we discuss the effects of different operating parameters on the oil particle size, as well as the effect of the particle size on the emulsion stability. Specifically, we compared three surfactant-free ultrasonic emulsification technologies (horn, bath, and focused ultrasonic systems). The focused ultrasonic system, which concentrates sound energy at the center of the dispersion system, showed the best performance, producing emulsions with a particle size distribution of 60–400 nm at 400 kHz. In addition, phase separation did not occur despite the lack of surfactants and thickeners, and the emulsion remained stable for seven days. It is expected to be widely used in eco-friendly emulsification processes.
One-Dimensional Photonic Crystals with Nonbranched Pores Prepared via Phosphorous Acid Anodizing of Aluminium
Authors: Kushnir Sergey E. , Sapoletova Nina A. , Roslyakov Ilya V. , Napolskii Kirill S.
Published: May 2022

One-dimensional photonic crystals (1D PhCs) obtained by aluminium anodizing under oscillating conditions are promising materials with structure-dependent optical properties. Electrolytes based on sulphuric, oxalic, and selenic acids have been utilized for the preparation of anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) 1D PhCs with sub-100-nm pore diameter. AAO films with larger pores can be obtained by anodizing in phosphorous acid at high voltages. Here, for the first time, anodizing in phosphorous acid is applied for the preparation of AAO 1D PhCs with nonbranched macropores. The sine wave profile of anodizing voltage in the 135–165 V range produces straight pores, whose diameter is above 100 nm and alternates periodically in size. The pore diameter modulation period linearly increases with the charge density by a factor of 599 ± 15 nm·cm2·C−1. The position of the photonic band gap is controlled precisely in the 0.63–1.96 µm range, and the effective refractive index of AAO 1D PhCs is 1.58 ± 0.05.
Informing the Co-Development of Culture-Centered Dietary Messaging in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, Northwest Territories
Authors: Gyapay Julia , Noksana Kanelsa , Ostertag Sonja , Wesche Sonia , Laird Brian Douglas , Skinner Kelly
Published: May 2022

Northern Indigenous communities require collaborative approaches to health communication about food that are grounded in Indigenous knowledges and cultures; however, preferences and best methods for this process remain understudied. This participatory study discusses how Inuvialuit (Inuit from the Western Arctic) knowledge and the perspectives of territorial, regional, and local dietary message stakeholders can inform the co-development of culture-centered dietary messaging to support healthy, safe, and culturally appropriate diets in Tuktoyaktuk, NWT. A community researcher in Tuktoyaktuk conducted storytelling interviews with country food knowledge holders (n = 7) and community members (n = 3), and a talking circle with local public health dietary message disseminators (n = 2) in June–July 2021. The lead author conducted key informant telephone and videoconference interviews with territorial and regional dietary message disseminators (n = 5) in June 2021. Interviews were coded and analyzed thematically. Our findings indicate that participants at all levels support increased inclusion of cultural and community perspectives about food to develop regionally and locally tailored dietary messaging. While most dietary message stakeholders wish to be involved in co-development processes, some country food knowledge holders in Tuktoyaktuk expressed a desire to lead local communications about country foods. Informed by participants’ experiences and needs, we provide recommendations for future community-led approaches to further (co-)develop and communicate effective, culturally meaningful dietary messaging that promotes Inuvialuit food sovereignty.
Laboratory Validation of a Real-Time RT-PCR Assay for the Detection of Jamestown Canyon Virus
Authors: Hughes Holly R. , Kenney Joan L. , Russell Brandy J. , Lambert Amy J.
Published: May 2022

The neuroinvasive disease caused by Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) infection is rare. However, increasing incidence and widespread occurrence of the infection make JCV a growing public health concern. Presently, clinical diagnosis is achieved through serological testing, and mosquito pool surveillance requires virus isolation and identification. A rapid molecular detection test, such as real-time RT-PCR, for diagnosis and surveillance of JCV has not been widely utilized. To enhance testing and surveillance, here, we describe the development and validation of a real-time RT-PCR test for the detection of JCV RNA. Three primer and probe sets were evaluated for analytical sensitivity and specificity. One probe set, JCV132FAM, was found to be the most sensitive test detecting 7.2 genomic equivalents/µL. While less sensitive, a second probe set JCV231cFAM was the most specific test with limited detection of Keystone virus at high RNA loads. Taken together, these data indicate both probe sets can be utilized for a primary sensitive screening assay and a secondary specific confirmatory assay. While both primer and probe sets detected high viral loads of Keystone virus, these assays did not detect any virus in the California encephalitis virus clade, including negative detection of the medically important La Crosse virus (LACV) and snowshoe hare virus (SSHV). The real-time RT-PCR assay described herein could be utilized in diagnosis and surveillance in regions with co-circulation of JCV and LACV or SSHV to inform public health action.
Acceptability and Practicality of a Quick Musculoskeletal Examination into Sports Medicine Pre-Participation Evaluation
Authors: Palermi Stefano , Annarumma Giada , Spinelli Alessandro , Massa Bruno , Serio Alessandro , Vecchiato Marco , Demeco Andrea , Brugin Erica , Sirico Felice , Giada Franco , Biffi Alessandro
Published: May 2022

Background: Child musculoskeletal (MSK) diseases are common and, even if often benign, sometimes can lead to significant impairment in the future health of children. Italian pre-participation evaluation (PPE), performed by a sports medicine physician, allows for the screening of a wide range of children every year. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the feasibility and the acceptability of pGALS (pediatric Gait, Arms, Legs and Spine) screening, a simple pediatric MSK screening examination, when performed as part of a routine PPE. Methods: Consecutive school-aged children attending a sports medicine screening program were assessed with the addition of pGALS to the routine clinical examination. Practicability (time taken) and patient acceptability (discomfort caused) were recorded. Results: 654 children (326 male, mean age 8.9 years) were evaluated through pGALS. The average time taken was 4.26 min (range 1.9–7.3 min). Acceptability of pGALS was deemed high: time taken was “adequate” (97% of parents) and caused little or no discomfort (94% of children). Abnormal MSK findings were common. Conclusions: pGALS is a practical and acceptable tool to perform in sports medicine PPE, even if performed by a non-expert in MSK medicine. Although common, abnormal MSK findings need to be interpreted in the global clinical context and assessment.
Carbonic Anhydrase IX-Targeted α-Radionuclide Therapy with 225Ac Inhibits Tumor Growth in a Renal Cell Carcinoma Model
Authors: Merkx Robin I. J. , Rijpkema Mark , Franssen Gerben M. , Kip Annemarie , Smeets Bart , Morgenstern Alfred , Bruchertseifer Frank , Yan Eddie , Wheatcroft Michael P. , Oosterwijk Egbert , Mulders Peter F. A. , Heskamp Sandra
Published: May 2022

In this study, we compared the tumor-targeting properties, therapeutic efficacy, and tolerability of the humanized anti-CAIX antibody (hG250) labeled with either the α-emitter actinium-225 (225Ac) or the β--emitter lutetium-177 (177Lu) in mice. BALB/c nude mice were grafted with human renal cell carcinoma SK-RC-52 cells and intravenously injected with 30 µg [225Ac] Ac-DOTA-hG250 (225Ac-hG250) or 30 µg [177Lu] Lu-DOTA-hG250 (177Lu-hG250), followed by ex vivo biodistribution studies. Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated in mice receiving 5, 15, and 25 kBq of 225Ac-hG250; 13 MBq of 177Lu-hG250; or no treatment. Tolerability was evaluated in non-tumor-bearing animals. High tumor uptake of both radioimmunoconjugates was observed and increased up to day 7 (212.8 ± 50.2 %IA/g vs. 101.0 ± 18.4 %IA/g for 225Ac-hG250 and 177Lu-hG250, respectively). Survival was significantly prolonged in mice treated with 15 kBq 225Ac-hG250, 25 kBq 225Ac-hG250, and 13 MBq 177Lu-hG250 compared to untreated control (p < 0.05). Non-tumor-bearing mice that received single-dose treatment with 15 or 25 kBq 225Ac-hG250 showed weight loss at the end of the experiment (day 126), and immunohistochemical analysis suggested radiation-induced nephrotoxicity. These results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of CAIX-targeted α-therapy in renal cell carcinoma. Future studies are required to find an optimal balance between therapeutic efficacy and toxicity.
Electrical Transport, Structural, Optical and Thermal Properties of [(1−x)Succinonitrile: xPEO]-LiTFSI-Co(bpy)3(TFSI)2-Co(bpy)3(TFSI)3 Solid Redox Mediators
Authors: Gupta Ravindra Kumar , Shaikh Hamid , Imran Ahamad , Bedja Idriss , Ajaj Abrar Fahad , Aldwayyan Abdullah Saleh
Published: May 2022

The solar cell has been considered one of the safest modes for electricity generation. In a dye-sensitized solar cell, a commonly used iodide/triiodide redox mediator inhibits back-electron transfer reactions, regenerates dyes, and reduces triiodide into iodide. The use of iodide/triiodide redox, however, imposes several problems and hence needs to be replaced by alternative redox. This paper reports the first Co2+/Co3+ solid redox mediators, prepared using [(1−x)succinonitrile: xPEO] as a matrix and LiTFSI, Co(bpy)3(TFSI)2, and Co(bpy)3(TFSI)3 as sources of ions. The electrolytes are referred to as SN_E (x = 0), Blend 1_E (x = 0.5 with the ethereal oxygen of the PEO-to-lithium ion molar ratio (EO/Li+) of 113), Blend 2_E (x = 0.5; EO/Li+ = 226), and PEO_E (x = 1; EO/Li+ = 226), which achieved electrical conductivity of 2.1 × 10−3, 4.3 × 10−4, 7.2 × 10−4, and 9.7 × 10−7 S cm−1, respectively at 25 °C. Only the blend-based polymer electrolytes exhibited the Vogel-Tamman-Fulcher-type behavior (vitreous nature) with a required low pseudo-activation energy (0.05 eV), thermal stability up to 125 °C, and transparency in UV-A, visible, and near-infrared regions. FT-IR spectroscopy demonstrated the interaction between salt and matrix in the following order: SN_E < Blend 2_E < Blend 1_E << PEO_E. The results were compared with those of acetonitrile-based liquid electrolyte, ACN_E.
Biodegradation of Polymers Used in Oil and Gas Operations: Towards Enzyme Biotechnology Development and Field Application
Authors: Berdugo-Clavijo Carolina , Scheffer Gabrielle , Sen Arindom , Gieg Lisa M.
Published: May 2022

Linear and crosslinked polymers are commonly used in the oil and gas industry. Guar-derived polymers have been extensively utilized in hydraulic fracturing processes, and recently polyacrylamide and cellulose-based polymers have also found utility. As these polymers are used during various phases of the hydraulic fracturing process, they can accumulate at formation fracture faces, resulting in undesired filter cakes that impede oil and gas recovery. Although acids and chemical oxidizers are often added in the fracturing fluids to degrade or ‘break’ polymer filter cakes, the constant use of these chemicals can be hazardous and can result in formation damage and corrosion of infrastructure. Alternately, the use of enzymes is an attractive and environmentally friendly technology that can be used to treat polymer accumulations. While guar-linkage-specific enzyme breakers isolated from bacteria have been shown to successfully cleave guar-based polymers and decrease their molecular weight and viscosity at reservoir conditions, new enzymes that target a broader range of polymers currently used in hydraulic fracturing operations still require research and development for effective application. This review article describes the current state-of-knowledge on the mechanisms and enzymes involved in biodegradation of guar gum, polyacrylamide (and hydrolyzed polyacrylamide), and carboxymethyl cellulose polymers. In addition, advantages and challenges in the development and application of enzyme breaker technologies are discussed.
Development of Methods for Specific Capture of Biological Targets on Aluminum Substrates: Application to Bacillus subtilis Spore Detection as a Model for Anthrax
Authors: Luta Ethan P. , Miller Benjamin L.
Published: May 2022

Many (if not most) biosensors rely on functional silane coatings as a first step toward covalent immobilization of specific capture molecules. While methods for silanization of silica (SiO2) surfaces are very well developed, less has been done to develop and characterize silanization methods for alternative substrates, such as alumina (Al2O3). In particular, the behavior of Al2O3 coatings grown on aluminum under ambient conditions has not been studied. To address this issue, we have tested solution-phase deposition of two silanes on Al2O3 (3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane and 3-triethoxysilyl)propylsuccinic anhydride) and their applicability to analyte-specific biosensing. Contact angle measurements and imaging via Scanning Electron Microsopy (SEM) were employed to characterize surfaces. We find that 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane produces well-behaved films and demonstrate that this surface can undergo further reaction with glutaraldehyde followed by an anti-Bacillus subtilis antibody to yield functionalized Al2O3 surfaces capable of specific capture of B. subtilis spores (a model of B. anthracis, the causative organism of Anthrax). In contrast, 3-triethoxysilyl)propylsuccinic anhydride did not behave well with Al/Al2O3 under the reaction conditions tested. In addition to providing specific protocols for Al/Al2O3 functionalization, this work highlights the importance of surface chemistry assessment in the development of new sensors.
Pedestrian and Animal Recognition Using Doppler Radar Signature and Deep Learning
Authors: Buchman Danny , Drozdov Michail , Krilavičius Tomas , Maskeliūnas Rytis , Damaševičius Robertas
Published: May 2022

Pedestrian occurrences in images and videos must be accurately recognized in a number of applications that may improve the quality of human life. Radar can be used to identify pedestrians. When distinct portions of an object move in front of a radar, micro-Doppler signals are produced that may be utilized to identify the object. Using a deep-learning network and time–frequency analysis, we offer a method for classifying pedestrians and animals based on their micro-Doppler radar signature features. Based on these signatures, we employed a convolutional neural network (CNN) to recognize pedestrians and animals. The proposed approach was evaluated on the MAFAT Radar Challenge dataset. Encouraging results were obtained, with an AUC (Area Under Curve) value of 0.95 on the public test set and over 0.85 on the final (private) test set. The proposed DNN architecture, in contrast to more common shallow CNN architectures, is one of the first attempts to use such an approach in the domain of radar data. The use of the synthetic radar data, which greatly improved the final result, is the other novel aspect of our work.
Pulse-Modulation Eddy Current Evaluation of Interlaminar Corrosion in Stratified Conductors: Semi-Analytical Modeling and Experiments
Authors: Liu Zhengshuai , Li Yong , Ren Shuting , Ren Yanzhao , Abidin Ilham Mukriz Zainal , Chen Zhenmao
Published: May 2022

Interlaminar corrosion (ILC) poses a severe threat to stratified conductors which are broadly employed in engineering fields including aerospace, energy, etc. Therefore, for the pressing concern regarding the safety and integrity of stratified conductors, it is imperative to non-intrusively and quantitatively interrogate ILC via non-destructive evaluation techniques. In this paper, pulse-modulation eddy current (PMEC) for imaging and assessment of ILC is intensively investigated through theoretical simulations and experiments. A semi-analytical model of PMEC evaluation of ILC occurring at the interlayer of two conductor layers is established based on the extended truncated region eigenfunction expansion (ETREE) along with the efficient algorithm for the numerical computation of eigenvalues for reflection coefficients of the stratified conductor under inspection. Based on theoretical investigation, PMEC evaluation of ILC in testing samples are further scrutinized by using the PMEC imaging system built up for the experimental study. The theoretical and experimental results have revealed the feasibility of PMEC for imaging and evaluation of ILC in stratified conductors.
A Self-Driven Microfluidic Chip for Ricin and Abrin Detection
Authors: Bai Xuexin , Hu Chenyi , Chen Liang , Wang Jing , Li Yanwei , Wan Wei , Jin Zhiying , Li Yue , Xin Wenwen , Kang Lin , Jin Han , Yang Hao , Wang Jinglin , Gao Shan
Published: May 2022

Ricin and abrin are phytotoxins that can be easily used as biowarfare and bioterrorism agents. Therefore, developing a rapid detection method for both toxins is of great significance in the field of biosecurity. In this study, a novel nanoforest silicon microstructure was prepared by the micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technique; particularly, a novel microfluidic sensor chip with a capillary self-driven function and large surface area was designed. Through binding with the double antibodies sandwich immunoassay, the proposed sensor chip is confirmed to be a candidate for sensing the aforementioned toxins. Compared with conventional immunochromatographic test strips, the proposed sensor demonstrates significantly enhanced sensitivity (≤10 pg/mL for both toxins) and high specificity against the interference derived from juice or milk, while maintaining good linearity in the range of 10–6250 pg/mL. Owing to the silicon nanoforest microstructure and improved homogeneity of the color signal, short detection time (within 15 min) is evidenced for the sensor chip, which would be helpful for the rapid tracking of ricin and abrin for the field of biosecurity.
Gesture, Music and Computer: The Centro di Sonologia Computazionale at Padova University, a 50-Year History
Authors: Canazza Sergio , De Poli Giovanni , Vidolin Alvise
Published: May 2022

With the advent of digital technologies, the computer has become a generalized tool for music production. Music can be seen as a creative form of human–human communication via a computer, and therefore, research on human–computer and computer–human interfaces is very important. This paper, for the Sensors Special Issue on 800 Years of Research at Padova University, presents a review of the research in the field of music technologies at Padova University by the Centro di Sonologia Computazionale (CSC), focusing on scientific, technological and musical aspects of interaction between musician and computer and between computer and audience. We discuss input devices for detecting information from gestures or audio signals and rendering systems for audience and user engagement. Moreover, we discuss a multilevel conceptual framework, which allows multimodal expressive content processing and coordination, which is important in art and music. Several paradigmatic musical works that stated new lines of both musical and scientific research are then presented in detail. The preservation of this heritage presents problems very different from those posed by traditional artworks. CSC is actively engaged in proposing new paradigms for the preservation of digital art.
Terahertz Multiple Echoes Correction and Non-Destructive Testing Based on Improved Wavelet Multi-Scale Analysis
Authors: Xiong Weihua , Li Lijuan , Ren Jiaojiao , Gu Jian , Zhang Dandan , Xue Junwen
Published: May 2022

During terahertz (THz) non-destructive testing (NDT), multiple echoes from the sample interface reflection signals are mixed with the detection signals, resulting in signal distortion and affecting the accuracy of the THz NDT results. Combined with the frequency property of multiple echoes, an improved wavelet multi-scale analysis is put forth in this paper to correct multiple echoes, allowing the maximum retention of detailed signal information in contrast with the existing echo correction methods. The results showed that the improved wavelet multi-scale analysis enhanced the continuity and smoothness of the image at least twice in testing adhesive layer thickness, prevented missing judgments and misjudgments in identifying characteristic defects, and ensured accurate detection results. Hence, it is of great significance for evaluating the THz NDT results.
Demonstration of VOC Fenceline Sensors and Canister Grab Sampling near Chemical Facilities in Louisville, Kentucky
Authors: MacDonald Megan , Thoma Eben , George Ingrid , Duvall Rachelle
Published: May 2022

Experimental fenceline sensor pods (SPods) fitted with 30 s duration canister grab sampling (CGS) systems were deployed at a site near chemical facilities in Louisville, KY, from 4 June 2018 to 5 January 2020. The objective of the study was to better understand lower cost 10.6 eV photoionization detector (PID)-based volatile organic compound (VOC) sensors and investigate their utility for near-source emissions detection applications. Prototype SPods containing PID sensor elements from two different manufacturers yielded between 78% and 86% valid data over the study, producing a dataset of over 120,000 collocated pair fenceline measurements averaged into 5-min datapoints. Ten-second time-resolved SPod data from an elevated fenceline sensor signal day are presented, illustrating source emission detections from the direction of a facility 500 m west of the monitoring site. An SPod-triggered CGS acquired in the emission plume on this day contained elevated concentrations of 1,3-butadiene and cyclohexane (36 parts per billion by volume (ppbv) and 637 ppbv, respectively), compounds known to be emitted by this facility. Elevated concentrations of these compounds were observed in a subset of the 61 manual and triggered CGS grab samples acquired during the study, with winds from the west. Using novel wind-resolved visualization and normalization approaches described herein, the collocated pair SPod datasets exhibited similarity in emission source signature. With winds from the west, approximately 50% of SPod readings were above our defined theoretical detection limit indicating persistent measurable VOC signal at this site. Overall, this 19-month study demonstrated reasonable prototype SPod operational performance indicating that improved commercial forms of lower cost PID sensors could be useful for select VOC fenceline monitoring applications.