bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Spatial Resolution and Image Reconstruction Parameters for the Small-Animal Metis™ PET/CT System
Authors: Zhao Jie , Liu Qiong , Li Chaofan , Song Yunfeng , Zhang Ying , Chen Jyh-Cheng
Published: May 2022

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the optimization of the spatial resolution and image reconstruction parameters related to image quality in an iterative reconstruction algorithm for the small-animal Metis™ PET/CT system. Methods: We used a homemade Derenzo phantom to evaluate the image quality using visual assessment, the signal-to-noise ratio, the contrast, the coefficient of variation, and the contrast-to-noise ratio of the 0.8 mm hot rods of eight slices in the center of the phantom PET images. A healthy mouse study was performed to analyze the influence of the optimal reconstruction parameters and the Gaussian post-filter FWHM. Results: In the phantom study, the image quality was the best when the phantom was placed at the end, keeping the central axis parallel to the X-axis of the system, and selecting between 30 and 40 iterations, a 0.314 mm reconstructed voxel size, and a 1.57 mm Gaussian post-filter FWHM. The optimization of the spatial resolution could reach 0.6 mm. In the animal study, it was suitable to choose a voxel size of 0.472 mm, between 30 and 40 iterations, and a 2.36 mm Gaussian post-filter FWHM. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the optimal imaging conditions and reconstruction parameters are very necessary to obtain high-resolution images and quantitative accuracy, especially for the high-precision recognition of tiny lesions.
Analysis and Calculation of Crosstalk for Twisted Communication Cables in Umbilical Cable
Authors: Cai Runze , Yang Shiyou
Published: May 2022

An umbilical cable is a compactly integrated cable consisting of electrical power cables, communication (electric signal) cables, and chemical transposition tubes. An umbilical cable is widely used in developing oil and gas resources of deep and ultra-deep water. With the increment of the length and the functional integration of umbilical cables, the crosstalk becomes a crucial issue in the cable design, and needs to be evaluated carefully before the fabrication and installation. Moreover, the twisted structure of communication cable cores has incurred extra difficulties to the crosstalk calculation. Nevertheless, it is not an easy task to model the complex twisted structure in existing models and methods of the crosstalk computation. In this regard, this paper proposes a numerical methodology for the crosstalk calculation considering the multi-conductor twisted structure of the cable cores. In the methodology, the four-wire twisted structure is modelled as a cascade of uniform multiconductor transmission line (MTL) sections, each wire section covering a length of 1/4 pitch, with abrupt interchanges of wire positions at the ends. The chain-parameter equation is introduced to describe the voltage and current transfer relationship in each MTL section. To obtain the numerical solutions of the twisted cable system, the port constraint equations and the permutation matrices are also required and developed. The per-unit-length parameters of the umbilical cable system are computed by numerical methods. The feasibility to engineering applications and accuracy of the proposed methodology is validated by experimental results, and the crosstalk characteristics of communication cables in a typical umbilical cable under different operating conditions are investigated.
Physical Similarity Simulation of Deformation and Failure Characteristics of Coal-Rock Rise under the Influence of Repeated Mining in Close Distance Coal Seams
Authors: Liu Pengze , Gao Lin , Zhang Pandong , Wu Guiyi , Wang Yongyin , Liu Ping , Kang Xiangtao , Ma Zhenqian , Kong Dezhong , Han Sen
Published: May 2022

Aiming at the problem that it is difficult to achieve accurate laying of model and precise excavation of roadways in special surrounding rock structure roadway according to conventional physical similarity simulation, which reduces the reliability of experimental results. An accurate laying of model and precise excavation of roadway method, named “labeling positioning and drawing line, presetting roadway model” (LPDLPRM), was proposed. The physical similarity simulation of deformation and failure characteristics of surrounding rock of coal-rock rise, under the influence of repeated mining in close distance coal seams, was carried out based on the method and infrared detection. The results show that the coal-rock rise in close distance coal seams was affected by repeated mining disturbances, and the surrounding rock of coal-rock rise was characterized by obvious asymmetric deformation, specific for the stress and strain near the coal pillar were higher than that of other parts, and cracks near the coal pillar were denser than other parts; when the coal seam is mined in which the coal-rock rise is located, the stress concentration of the surrounding rock near the rise was weakened by mining pressure relief in the upper coal seam; the stress concentration of the surrounding rock near the rise increases when the coal and the lower coal seam are mined, and the stress on the right side (coal pillar side) near the coal-rock rise was the most concentrated. Therefore, it is important to take measures to strengthen support near the coal pillar and to control asymmetric deformation when the coal-rock rise is influenced by repeated mining.
Recent Research Progress in Hybrid Photovoltaic–Regenerative Hydrogen Fuel Cell Microgrid Systems
Authors: Arsalis Alexandros , Georghiou George E. , Papanastasiou Panos
Published: May 2022

Hybrid photovoltaic–regenerative hydrogen fuel cell (PV-RHFC) microgrid systems are considered to have a high future potential in the effort to increase the renewable energy share in the form of solar PV technology with hydrogen generation, storage, and reutilization. The current study provides a comprehensive review of the recent research progress of hybrid PV-RHFC microgrid systems to extract conclusions on their characteristics and future prospects. The different components that can be integrated (PV modules, electrolyzer and fuel cell stacks, energy storage units, power electronics, and controllers) are analyzed in terms of available technology options. The main modeling and optimization methods, and control strategies are discussed. Additionally, various application options are provided, which differentiate in terms of scale, purpose, and further integration with other power generating and energy storage technologies. Finally, critical analysis and discussion of hybrid PV-RHFC microgrid systems were conducted based on their current status. Overall, the commercialization of hybrid PV-RHFC microgrid systems requires a significant drop in the RHFC subsystem capital cost. In addition, it will be necessary to produce complete hybrid PV-RHFC microgrid systems with integrated energy management control capabilities to avoid operational issues and ensure flexibility and reliability of the energy flow in relation to supply, storage, and demand.
A Two-Level Model Predictive Control-Based Approach for Building Energy Management including Photovoltaics, Energy Storage, Solar Forecasting and Building Loads
Authors: Agharazi Hanieh , Prica Marija D. , Loparo Kenneth A.
Published: May 2022

This paper uses a two-level model predictive control-based approach for the coordinated control and energy management of an integrated system that includes photovoltaic (PV) generation, energy storage, and building loads. Novel features of the proposed local controller include (1) the ability to simultaneously manage building loads and energy storage to achieve different operational objectives such as energy efficiency, economic cost efficiency, demand response and grid optimization through the design of specific power trajectory tracking performance functionals, (2) an energy trim function that minimizes the impact of solar forecasting errors on system performance, and (3) the design of a state of charge controller that uses day-ahead forecast of solar power and building loads to intialize energy storage at the start of each day. The local controller is tested in simulation using an exemplary system with PV generation, energy storage and dispatchable building loads. Two sample days with different PV forecasts and multiple case scenarios are considered, and the performance of the algorithm in managing the real and reactive net building load trajectories and the ramp rate of PV injections into the utility network are evaluated. The simulations are based on actual forecasted and measured PV data, and the results show that the local controller meets the tracking requirements for real and reactive power within the operating constraints of the building.
Research Summary and Literature Review on Modelling and Simulation of Heat Pumps for Simultaneous Heating and Cooling for Buildings
Authors: Byrne Paul
Published: May 2022

A heat pump for simultaneous heating and cooling (HPS) is a refrigeration machine by which the productions of heating and cooling energies are simultaneously valorized. This introductory article presents the uses of heat pump productions under the form of an analysis of thermal demands of different types of buildings and a literature review of real installations and experimental systems, which are the basis of the construction of numerical models. The applications of HPSs are diverse: space heating and cooling, domestic hot water (DHW), hot water for desalination process, etc. Means and methods for improving the performance of refrigeration cycles and the management of heat and cold productions are developed, including modeling and simulation. New refrigeration circuit architectures were designed. A focus is paid on refrigerants. Prototypes combining heating-cooling, heating-cooling-DHW and cooling-desalination have been developed, built and tested to validate the models. Even though a strong simultaneity of thermal demands is essential, the results show that HPSs are generally very efficient systems.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Energy Start-Up Companies: The Use of Global Financial Crisis (GFC) as a Lesson for Future Recovery
Authors: Pilloni Martina , Kádár József , Abu Hamed Tareq
Published: May 2022

Purpose: The study discusses COVID-19’s short-term impact on Israel’s renewable energy start-up sector from March to July 2020. Results and contributions: The interviewed companies were experiencing supply chain disruption, logistical issues, and restrictions in work access, all of which negatively impacted business operations. Moreover, companies reported revenue losses and difficulty in securing funding, interpreted here as financial distress. In some cases, companies cut back on staff. Insights from the literature on the global financial crisis (GFC) were used here to discuss patterns discerned from the interviews. Policy recommendations are presented at the end based on both the interpretation of data and a literature review. Methodology: This paper combined the qualitative research analysis of COVID-19’s impacts on energy start-up companies assessed by a questionnaire during interviews with a literature analysis on the previous GFC. Gap: This study aimed to clarify the issues experienced by the start-up companies in the renewable energy sector in Israel during the first months of the pandemic and contributes to the COVID-19 narrative in the energy sector, focusing on a topic that has not been thoroughly discussed at present. Relevance: The paper contains unique primary data on the short-term financial impact of COVID-19 on renewable energy start-up companies, and recommends policies to assist these companies and effectively respond to their financial needs in times of crisis. The paper points out that the absence of such a financial policy for start-up companies might pose risks to the companies’ growth and innovation, and have harmful consequences for the renewable energy sector, energy transition, and climate goals. The attention currently given to initial short-term measures should shift toward a more structural and long-term approach. Impact: The paper wants to capture the attention of policymakers and the research community in evaluating and adequately addressing the financial needs of the start-up sector, which is a crucial segment of the economy, and is indispensable for achieving long-term goals such as energy transition.
Variability in Growth Patterns and Tree-Ring Formation of East European Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) Provenances to Changing Climatic Conditions in Lithuania
Authors: Linkevičius Edgaras , Kliučius Almantas , Šidlauskas Giedrius , Augustaitis Algirdas
Published: May 2022

An increase in the mean monthly temperature in July and a lack of precipitation during the vegetation period will cause an increase in the frequency and severity of droughts during the vegetation period in Lithuania. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the growth response to climate change of East European pine provenances in Lithuania. The research was performed based on a long-term pine provenance experiment that was established in 1975 in Lithuania. The results showed that central populations demonstrated the same or better survival and growth results compared with western populations that also included local Lithuanian provenances. Even though southern populations were characterized by the same productivity, their low survival rate suggests a negative introduction effect. Analysis of temporal variation in climate sensitivity showed a higher resistance of central and southern Scots pine provenances to the negative climatic changes, compared to the western provenances. Provenances from the central, southern and especially western locations demonstrated an increasing statistically significant negative effect of monthly temperatures in July. Additionally, provenances from western locations were more sensitive to precipitation amounts, water balance and droughts in June and July. Considering that central and southern provenances demonstrated the consistent effect of growth tolerance, the incorporation of the genetic material from the southern part of European Russia and Ukraine into local breeding programs of Scots pine might amplify positive effects of the transfer. Moreover, knowledge gaps remain regarding the growth performance of Scots pine provenances that originated from central or western European regions. Thus, Scots pine origins from Poland and the northeastern part of Germany should be included in Lithuanian provenance experiments.
Changes in Species and Functional Diversity of the Herb Layer of Riparian Forest despite Six Decades of Strict Protection
Authors: Reczyńska Kamila , Orczewska Anna , Yurchenko Valeriia , Wójcicka-Rosińska Anna , Świerkosz Krzysztof
Published: May 2022

The herb layer of temperate forests contributes to long-term forest ecosystem functioning and provisioning of ecosystem services. Therefore, a thorough understanding of its dynamics in the face of environmental changes is essential. This paper focuses on the species and functional diversity of the herb layer of riparian forests to verify how these two community components changed over time and under strict protection. The understory vegetation was surveyed on 42 semi-permanent plots in three time periods between 1960 and 2020. The overall pattern in vegetation changes that related to species richness and diversity, functional structure, and habitat conditions was analyzed using ordination and permutation techniques. We found significant changes in species composition and the functional structure of herbaceous vegetation over the last six decades. Forests were enriched with nutrient-demanding and alien species. A significant increase in functional diversity and the proportion of species with high SLA and canopy height was also observed, whereas changes in habitat conditions were insignificant. The observed trends indicate that the strict protection of forest communities within small and isolated reserves does not fully protect their species composition. Forest reserves should be surrounded by unmanaged forests and spatially connected to allow species mobility.
Modeling User Acceptance of In-Vehicle Applications for Safer Road Environment
Authors: Razak Siti Fatimah Abdul , Yogarayan Sumendra , Abdullah Mohd Fikri Azli , Azman Afizan
Published: May 2022

Driver acceptance studies are vital from the manufacturer’s perspective as well as the driver’s perspective. Most empirical investigations are limited to populations in the United States and Europe. Asian communities, particularly in Southeast Asia, which make for a large proportion of global car users, are underrepresented. To better understand the user acceptance toward in-vehicle applications, additional factors need to be included in order to complement the existing constructs in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Hypotheses were developed and survey items were designed to validate the constructs in the research model. A total of 308 responses were received among Malaysians via convenience sampling and analyzed using linear and non-linear regression analyses. Apart from that, a mediating effect analysis was also performed to assess the indirect effect a variable has on another associated variable. We extended the TAM by including personal characteristics, system characteristics, social influence and trust, which could influence users’ intention to use the in-vehicle applications. We found that users from Malaysia are more likely to accept in-vehicle applications when they have the information about the system and believe that the applications are reliable and give an advantage in their driving experience. Without addressing the user acceptance, the adoption of the applications may progress more slowly, with the additional unfortunate result that potentially avoidable crashes will continue to occur.
The Underlying Physicochemical Properties and Starch Structures of indica Rice Grains with Translucent Endosperms under Low-Moisture Conditions
Authors: Chen Fei , Lu Yan , Pan Lixu , Fan Xiaolei , Li Qianfeng , Huang Lichun , Zhao Dongsheng , Zhang Changquan , Liu Qiaoquan
Published: May 2022

Rice grain quality is a complex trait that includes processing, appearance, eating, cooking, and nutrition components. The amylose content (AC) in the rice endosperm affects the eating and cooking quality along with the appearance of milled rice. In this study, four indica rice varieties with different ACs were used to study the factors affecting endosperm transparency along with the physical and chemical characteristics and eating quality of translucent endosperm varieties. Endosperm transparency was positively correlated with water content and negatively correlated with the cumulative area of cavities within starch granules. The indica landrace 28Zhan had a translucent endosperm and exhibited good taste. Based on starch fine structure analysis, long-chain amylopectin and the B2 chain of amylopectin might be major contributors to the good taste and relatively slow digestion of this landrace.
Comparison of Imitation Crab Sticks with Real Snow Crab (Chionoecetes opilio) Leg Meat Based on Physicochemical and Sensory Characteristics
Authors: Mun Sohyun , Shin Eui-Cheol , Kim Seonghui , Park Joodong , Jeong Chungeun , Boo Chang-Guk , Yu Daeung , Sim Jin-Ha , Ji Cheong-Il , Nam Taek-Jeong , Cho Suengmok
Published: May 2022

Recently, many manufacturers have been developing or producing imitation crab sticks (ICSs) that are highly similar to real snow crab leg meat (RC). This study evaluated the similarities between commercial ICSs and RC based on the analysis of physicochemical and sensory properties. Normal ICS (NS) and premium ICSs either with real crab leg meat (PS-RC) or without it (PS) were compared with RC. The sensory evaluation results showed that PS and NS had the highest and lowest levels of similarity to RC, respectively. The carbohydrate contents of ICSs (10–23%) were higher than that of RC (0.5%). Among ICSs, PS showed more similarity with RC than NS and PS-RC in terms of gel strength and texture profiles. PS-RC and PS showed a microstructural pattern that slightly imitated the muscle fiber arrangement of RC. The electric tongue analysis of taste compounds, such as sugars, free amino acids, and nucleotides, showed that the taste profile of ICSs is distinctly different from that of RC. The electronic nose analysis identified 32 volatile compounds, while the principal component analysis using electronic nose data successfully distinguished three clusters: PS-RC and PS, RC, and NS. Our results could provide useful information for the development of ICSs with higher similarity to RC.
Preparation of Novel Nanomaterial and Its Application in Food Industry
Authors: Wu Hong , Zhang Hui
Published: May 2022

Nanotechnology has offered a wide range of opportunities for the development and application of structures, materials, or systems with new properties in the food industry in recent years [...]
Colloidal and Acid Gelling Properties of Mixed Milk and Pea Protein Suspensions
Authors: Oliveira Isabelle Carolina , de Paula Ferreira Iuri Emmanuel , Casanova Federico , Cavallieri Angelo Luiz Fazani , Lima Nascimento Luis Gustavo , de Carvalho Antônio Fernandes , Nogueira Silva Naaman Francisco
Published: May 2022

The present study aims to describe colloidal and acid gelling properties of mixed suspensions of pea and milk proteins. Mixed protein suspensions were prepared by adding pea protein isolate to rehydrated skimmed milk (3% w/w protein) to generate four mixed samples at 5, 7, 9, and 11% w/w total protein. Skimmed milk powder was also used to prepare four pure milk samples at the same protein concentrations. The samples were analyzed in regard to their pH, viscosity, color, percentage of sedimentable material, heat and ethanol stabilities, and acid gelling properties. Mixed suspensions were darker and presented higher pH, viscosity, and percentage of sedimentable material than milk samples. Heat and ethanol stabilities were similar for both systems and were reduced as a function of total protein concentration. Small oscillation rheology and induced syneresis data showed that the presence of pea proteins accelerated acid gel formation but weakened the final structure of the gels. In this context, the results found in the present work contributed to a better understanding of mixed dairy/plant protein functionalities and the development of new food products.
Cyanide Content of Cassava Food Products Available in Australia
Authors: Quinn Alicia A. , Myrans Harry , Gleadow Roslyn M.
Published: May 2022

In 2009, Food Standards Australia New Zealand set a total cyanide content limit of 10 ppm for ready-to-eat cassava products to address food safety concerns about cyanogenic glucosides in cassava. This study surveys a range of cassava food products available in Melbourne, Australia, ten years after the implementation of these regulations. Of all the products tested, the mean cyanide content was greatest in ready-to-eat cassava chips (48.4 ppm), although imported ready-to-eat products had a higher mean cyanide content (95.9 ppm) than those manufactured in Australia (1.0 ppm). Cyanide was detected in frozen cassava products (grated mean = 12.9 ppm; whole root mean = 19.8 ppm), but was significantly reduced through processing according to packet instructions in both product types. Three methods were used to quantify total cyanide content: the evolved cyanide method, the picrate absorbance method and the picrate chart method, with satisfactory agreement between methods. The picrate absorbance and chart methods reported mean cyanide contents 13.7 ppm and 23.1 ppm higher, respectively, than the evolved cyanide method. Our results reaffirm the need for the ongoing testing of cassava food products, especially ready-to-eat products whose cyanide content will not be reduced before consumption.
Biochemical and Structural Properties of a High-Temperature-Active Laccase from Bacillus pumilus and Its Application in the Decolorization of Food Dyes
Authors: Li Tao , Chu Xiuxiu , Yuan Zhaoting , Yao Zhiming , Li Jingwen , Lu Fuping , Liu Yihan
Published: May 2022

A novel laccase gene isolated from Bacillus pumilus TCCC 11568 was expressed, and the recombinant laccase (rLAC) displayed maximal activity at 80 °C and at pH 6.0 against ABTS. rLAC maintained its structural integrity at a high temperature (355 K) compared to its tertiary structure at a low temperature (325 K), except for some minor adjustments of certain loops. However, those adjustments were presumed to be responsible for the formation of a more open access aisle that facilitated the binding of ABTS in the active site, resulting in a shorter distance between the catalytic residue and the elevated binding energy. Additionally, rLAC showed good thermostability (≤70 °C) and pH stability over a wide range (3.0–10.0), and displayed high efficiency in decolorizing azo dyes that are applicable to the food industry. This work will improve our knowledge on the relationship of structure–function for thermophilic laccase, and provide a candidate for dye effluent treatment in the food industry.
How Much Did Internet Use Promote Grain Production?—Evidence from a Survey of 1242 Farmers in 13 Provinces in China
Authors: Zheng Yangyang , Fan Qinqin , Jia Wei
Published: May 2022

Increasing grain production and ensuring food security are always major issues in China, which are related to the sustainable development of the nation. The sudden outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 has brought new challenges to global food security, which highlights the “ballast stone” and “stabilizer” role of food. China’s food security must rely on domestic production. As an important production factor, the Internet is also an important channel for farmers to obtain agricultural information, which can effectively reduce the information search cost and information asymmetry. Existing studies have mainly focused on the impact of Internet use on agricultural inputs, agricultural prices, and agricultural efficiency; there are few studies on the impact of Internet use on grain production. To fill this gap, based on the micro survey data of 1242 maize farmers in 13 provinces in China, this paper employs linear regression models and PSM methods to deeply explore the impact of Internet use on farmers’ grain production. The results show that Internet use has a significant positive impact on the grain production of farmers. Compared with the farmers who do not use the Internet, Internet use increases the maize yield of farmers by 14.25%. The heterogeneity analysis further shows that the impact of Internet use on the grain production of different farmers varies significantly: the maize yield per ha after using the Internet for farmers of younger, low education level, large-scale, and living in well-developed villages had increased by 13.65%, 15.38%, 23.94%, and 10.64%, respectively, compared with the counterfactual scenario of farmers who do not use the Internet. The results of this paper have passed the robustness test.
Alterations in the Physicochemical Properties and Antioxidant Activity during Aging of Stored Raw Garlic
Authors: Kang Min-Jung , Kang Jae-Ran , Woo Min Seok , Kang Dawon , Shin Jung-Hye
Published: May 2022

Garlic, a once-a-year crop, is mass-produced in a single event. Most of the garlic harvested during the year, unless consumed or processed immediately, should be stored. Stored raw garlic (SRG) can be used to make black garlic (BG) via aging, and storage may affect the properties and quality of the BG compared with the use of raw garlic that has not been stored. This study was performed to identify the effect of long-term storage of raw garlic on the quality of BG products. SRG was aged for 21 days at 40–86 °C for BG production. Moisture content and pH gradually decreased with the aging period. Total phenolic, total flavonoid, and fructose contents were significantly increased during the aging period. Compared with non-stored raw garlic (NSRG), alliin and S-allylcysteine (SAC) contents were 1.7-fold and 5.9-fold higher in SRG, respectively, and γ-glutamyl-S-allylcysteine (γ-GSAC) content was 2.8-fold lower in SRG. The contents of alliin and γ-GSAC reduced as the aging period of SRG and NSRG progressed. However, the SAC content of NSRG increased with aging, but the SAC content of SRG decreased or increased slightly with extended aging. The antioxidant activity was also higher in BG made from NSRG rather than SRG. These results show that the SAC content is relatively low in BG manufactured from SRG compared with NSRG. Our findings suggest that it is necessary to establish an aging method suitable for SRG in BG production with high SAC content, a representative indicator of BG.
Biotechnology Approaches in Food Preservation and Food Safety
Authors: Barbosa Joana , Teixeira Paula
Published: May 2022

Driven by different motivations, we have seen a rise in the demand for “natural”, “preservative-free”, and “clean label” foods [...]
It Seems Italian, Doesn’t It? An Exploratory Analysis of English and Spanish Consumers about Italian Appearance Food Products
Authors: Simeone Mariarosaria , Cinquegrana Morena , Russo Carlo
Published: May 2022

The Italian export of agri-food products has been increasingly threatened by the unfair use of misleading Italian symbols (such as the national flag or the green-white-red colors) by non-Italian producers. This research paper investigated what English and Spanish consumers know about “Made in Italy” food, and their attitude towards Italian appearance food products. Primary data were collected in Spain and England, and a probit model was used to identify the determinants of consumers’ vulnerability to misleading Italian symbols. We found that merely having Italian symbols on the package might lead almost half of the consumers in the sample to consider food as Made in Italy, regardless of the actual origin. This result confirms the severity of the problem. The econometric model provides suggestions for public actions to mitigate the issue.
High-Order Dissipation-Preserving Methods for Nonlinear Fractional Generalized Wave Equations
Authors: Li Yu , Shan Wei , Zhang Yanming
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we construct and analyze a class of high-order and dissipation-preserving schemes for the nonlinear space fractional generalized wave equations by the newly introduced scalar auxiliary variable (SAV) technique. The system is discretized by a fourth-order Riesz fractional difference operator in spatial discretization and the collocation methods in the temporal direction. Not only can the present method achieve fourth-order accuracy in the spatial direction and arbitrarily high-order accuracy in the temporal direction, but it also has long-time computing stability. Then, the unconditional discrete energy dissipation law of the present numerical schemes is proved. Finally, some numerical experiments are provided to certify the efficiency and the structure-preserving properties of the proposed schemes.
Effects of Injector Nozzle Number of Holes and Fuel Injection Pressures on the Diesel Engine Characteristics Operated with Waste Cooking Oil Biodiesel Blends
Authors: Ahmed Mukur Beyan , Mekonen Menelik Walle
Published: May 2022

This work covers the impact of varying injector nozzle hole numbers (INHNs) and fuel injection pressures (IPs) on fuel atomization, performance, and exhaust emission characteristics of a diesel engine. The primary goal of this research was to improve fuel characteristics. Increasing INHNs and fuel IPs have a substantial impact on the blended fuel viscosity and density, which leads to increased atomization and mixing rates, as well as combustion and engine efficiency. The fuel atomization was checked by varying the INHNs with an operating diesel fuel using the ANSYS Fluent spray simulation work. The experimental test was performed on the fuel blends of waste cooking oil (WCO)–diesel blends from 10 to 30% (with an increment of 10%) by evaluating the performance and emission parameters. The fuel IPs were altered on four, such as 190, 200 (default), 210, and 220 bar with a modification of INHN of 1 (default), 3, and 4), each 0.84, 0.33, and 0.25 mm in orifice size, respectively. The simulation result shows that the INHN-4 has better fuel atomization. Whereas the experimental test revealed that the increment in blending ratio of WCO was up to 30%, INHNs and fuel IPs enhanced the BSFC and BTE and reduced exhaust emissions. The results indicate that increasing the fuel IP up to 210 bar with a 4-hole INHN for B30 was the optimal combination for the overall enhancement of BSFC and BTE, as well as lower CO and HC emissions with a minor rise in NOx when compared to the baseline diesel.
The Detection of GRBs at VHE: A Challenge Lasting for More than Two Decades, What Is Next?
Authors: Berti Alessio , Carosi Alessandro
Published: May 2022

Unveiling the mystery of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) has been the target of many multi-waveband observational and theoretical efforts during the last decades. The results collected by current and past space-based instruments have provided important insights into the mechanisms at the origin of their prompt and afterglow phases. On the other hand, many questions, such as the the origin of the multi-GeV signal observed in a large number of events, remained unanswered. Within this framework, the first firm detections of a very-high-energy (VHE, E≳100 GeV) emission component by MAGIC and H.E.S.S. collaborations represented an important, long-awaited result for the VHE astrophysics community. However, while such discoveries opened a new era in the study of GRBs, they also provided an unexpected complexity due to the differences between the phenomenology of the observed events. This revealed that we still have an incomplete comprehension of GRB physics. In the nearby future, observations by the Cherenkov Telescope Array Observatory (CTAO), with unprecedented sensitivity in the VHE band, will have a key role in the study of these enigmatic objects and their interactions with the surrounding environment. In this review we will cover the recent GRB history, highlighting the efforts of follow-up campaigns by the VHE community that led to the first VHE GRB detection, and outlining what we can expect from future facilities in the next decades.
Short-Term Responses of Soil Microbial Communities to Changes in Air Temperature, Soil Moisture and UV Radiation
Authors: Silva Isabel , Alves Marta , Malheiro Catarina , Silva Ana Rita R. , Loureiro Susana , Henriques Isabel , González-Alcaraz M. Nazaret
Published: May 2022

We analyzed the effects on a soil microbial community of short-term alterations in air temperature, soil moisture and ultraviolet radiation and assessed the role of invertebrates (species Enchytraeus crypticus) in modulating the community’s response to these factors. The reference soil, Lufa 2.2, was incubated for 48 h, with and without invertebrates, under the following conditions: standard (20 °C + 50% water holding capacity (WHC)); increased air temperature (15–25 °C or 20–30 °C + 50% WHC); flood (20 °C + 75% WHC); drought (20 °C + 25% WHC); and ultraviolet radiation (UV) (20 °C + 50% WHC + UV). BIOLOG EcoPlates and 16S rDNA sequencing (Illumina) were used to assess the microbial community’s physiological profile and the bacterial community’s structure, respectively. The bacterial abundance (estimated by 16S rDNA qPCR) did not change. Most of the conditions led to an increase in microbial activity and a decrease in diversity. The structure of the bacterial community was particularly affected by higher air temperatures (20–30 °C, without E. crypticus) and floods (with E. crypticus). Effects were observed at the class, genera and OTU levels. The presence of invertebrates mostly resulted in the attenuation of the observed effects, highlighting the importance of considering microbiome–invertebrate interactions. Considering future climate changes, the effects described here raise concern. This study provides fundamental knowledge to develop effective strategies to mitigate these negative outcomes. However, long-term studies integrating biotic and abiotic factors are needed.
A Novel Cuproptosis-Related Prognostic Gene Signature and Validation of Differential Expression in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Bian Zilong , Fan Rong , Xie Lingmin
Published: May 2022

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most prevalent subtype of renal cell carcinoma, which is characterized by metabolic reprogramming. Cuproptosis, a novel form of cell death, is highly linked to mitochondrial metabolism and mediated by protein lipoylation. However, the clinical impacts of cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) in ccRCC largely remain unclear. In the current study, we systematically evaluated the genetic alterations of cuproptosis-related genes in ccRCC. Our results revealed that CDKN2A, DLAT, DLD, FDX1, GLS, PDHA1 and PDHB exhibited differential expression between ccRCC and normal tissues (|log2(fold change)| > 2/3 and p < 0.05). Utilizing an iterative sure independence screening (SIS) method, we separately constructed the prognostic signature of CRGs for predicting the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in ccRCC patients. The prognostic score of CRGs yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.658 and 0.682 for the prediction of 5-year OS and PFS, respectively. In the Kaplan−Meier survival analysis of OS, a higher risk score of cuproptosis-related gene signature was significantly correlated with worse overall survival (HR = 2.72 (2.01–3.68), log-rank p = 1.76 × 10−7). Patients with a higher risk had a significantly shorter PFS (HR = 2.83 (2.08–3.85), log-rank p = 3.66 × 10−7). Two independent validation datasets (GSE40435 (N = 101), GSE53757 (N = 72)) were collected for meta-analysis, suggesting that CDKN2A (log2(fold change) = 1.46, 95%CI: 1.75–2.35) showed significantly higher expression in ccRCC tissues while DLAT (log2(fold change) = −0.54, 95%CI: −0.93–−0.15) and FDX1 (log2(fold change) = −1.01, 95%CI: −1.61–−0.42) were lowly expressed. The expression of CDKN2A and FDX1 in ccRCC was also significantly associated with immune infiltration levels and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) expression (CDKN2A: r = 0.24, p = 2.14 × 10−8; FDX1: r = −0.17, p = 1.37 × 10−4). In conclusion, the cuproptosis-related gene signature could serve as a potential prognostic predictor for ccRCC patients and may offer novel insights into the cancer treatment.
Overexpression of LT, an Oncoprotein Derived from the Polyomavirus SV40, Promotes Somatic Embryogenesis in Cotton
Authors: Lu Chao , Wei Yunxiao , Meng Zhigang , Liu Yongming , Ali Abid Muhammad , Liu Qinfei , Abbas Mubashir , Wang Yanan , Liang Chengzhen , Wang Yuan , Zhang Rui
Published: May 2022

Although genetic transformation has opened up a new era for cotton molecular breeding, it still suffers from the limitation problem of long transformation periods, which slows down the generation of new cotton germplasms. In this study, LT gene (SV40 large T antigen), which promotes the transformation efficiency of animal cells, was codon-optimized. Its overexpression vector was transformed into cotton. It was observed that EC (embryogenic callus) formation period was 33% shorter and transformation efficiency was slightly higher in the LT T0 generation than that of control. RNA-seq data of NEC (non-embryonic callus) and EC from LT and control revealed that more DEGs (differential expression genes) in NEC were identified than that of EC, indicating LT mainly functioned in NEC. Further KEGG, GO, and transcription factor analyses showed that DEGs were significantly enriched in brassinosteroid biosynthesis pathways and that bHLH, MYB, and AP2/ERF were the top three gene families, which are involved in EC formation. In addition, the key genes related to the auxin pathway were differentially expressed only in LT overexpression NEC, which caused early response, biosynthesis, and transportation of the hormone, resulting in EC earlier formation. In summary, the results demonstrated that LT can promote somatic embryogenesis in cotton, which provides a new strategy for improving cotton transformation and shortening EC formation time.
Carbon in Mineralised Plutons
Authors: Armstrong Joseph G. T. , Parnell John , Boyce Adrian J.
Published: May 2022

The Paleoproterozoic schists of the Leverburgh Belt, South Harris and the Neoproterozoic carbonaceous metasediments of the Dalradian Supergroup were deposited during the two most significant periods of black shale deposition globally. Hosted within these metasedimentary rocks are graphite-bearing mineralised plutons, formed during orogenic events. The assimilation of carbonaceous lithologies during magmatic pluton emplacement is a commonly recognised mechanism in the formation of many metal and semi-metal-enriched deposits. Graphite mineralisation as a result of carbon assimilation is a feature often associated with these mineral deposits, though the source of the carbon and any associated metal deposits is not always understood. In this study, carbon and sulphur isotope analyses demonstrate that the crustal assimilation of the Paleoproterozoic host rocks took place during magmatic emplacement and provided the source of carbon and sulphur during mineralisation of the plutons. Minor enrichments of trace elements are present in the South Harris plutonic lithologies, indicating that mobilisation and enrichment occurred during assimilation of the schists. Petrographic and elemental analysis of a Dalradian-hosted Ordovician pluton indicates a similar but more substantial enrichment of these trace elements during crustal assimilation. The timing and depth of assimilation appear to play key roles in the extent of graphite and associated trace element enrichments.
The Effect of Employee-Oriented Flexible Work on Mental Health: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shiri Rahman , Turunen Jarno , Kausto Johanna , Leino-Arjas Päivi , Varje Pekka , Väänänen Ari , Ervasti Jenni
Published: May 2022

The effect of flexible work on mental health is not well known. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effects of employee-oriented flexible work on mental health problems and associated disability. Literature searches were conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Sciences, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, ProQuest and EconPapers databases from their inception through October-November 2020. Sixteen studies on the associations of worktime control, working from home, or flexible working arrangements with mental health related outcomes were included in the review: one cluster randomized controlled trial, two non-randomized controlled trials, two cross-over studies, and 11 prospective cohort studies. Three reviewers independently assessed the met-hodological quality of the included studies and extracted the data. The included studies differed in design, intervention/exposure, and outcome, so meta-analysis was not carried out and qualitative results were reported. A few prospective cohort studies found that low employees’ control over worktime increases the risk of depressive symptoms, psychological distress, burnout, and accumulated fatigue. One cross-over and a few cohort studies found small beneficial effects of working partly from home on depressive symptoms, stress, and emotional exhaustion. A small number of controlled trials, cross-over or cohort studies found that flexible working arrangements increase employees’ control over working hours, but have only modest beneficial effects on psychological distress, burnout, and emotional exhaustion. This systematic review suggests that employee-oriented flexible work may have small beneficial effects on mental health. However, randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies are needed to identify the health effects of flexible work.
Comparison of the Injury Mechanism between Pregnant and Non-Pregnant Women Vehicle Passengers Using Car Crash Test Dummies
Authors: Kuwahara Ayumu , Hitosugi Masahito , Takeda Arisa , Tsujimura Seiji , Miyata Yasuhito
Published: May 2022

This paper analyzes the kinematics and applied forces of pregnant and non-pregnant women dummies sitting in the rear seat during a frontal vehicle collision to determine differences in the features of abdominal injuries. Sled tests were conducted at 29 and 48 km/h with pregnant and non-pregnant dummies (i.e., MAMA IIB and Hybrid III). The overall kinematics of the dummy, resultant acceleration at the chest, transrational acceleration along each axis at the pelvis, and loads of the lap belt and shoulder belt were examined. The belt loads were higher for the MAMA IIB than for the Hybrid III because the MAMA IIB had a higher body mass than the Hybrid III. The differences in the lap belt loads were 1119 N at 29 km/h and 1981–2365 N at 48 km/h. Therefore, for restrained pregnant women sitting in the rear seat, stronger forces may apply to the lower abdomen during a high-velocity frontal collision. Our results suggest that for restrained pregnant women sitting in the rear seat, the severity of abdominal injuries and the risk of a negative fetal outcome depend on the collision velocity.
The Impact of COPD on Hospitalized Patients with Diabetes: A Propensity Score Matched Analysis on Discharge Records
Authors: Di Martino Giuseppe , Di Giovanni Pamela , Cedrone Fabrizio , Michela D’Addezio , Meo Francesca , Scampoli Piera , Romano Ferdinando , Staniscia Tommaso
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: Type 2 diabetes is a common comorbidity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Despite the lack of knowledge of the pathophysiological link between diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the presence of diabetes among those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is associated with worse outcomes, such as mortality and hospitalization. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on in-hospital mortality and prolonged length of stay (PLOS) among patients with diabetes. (2) Methods: The study considered all hospital admissions of patients with diabetes aged over 65 years performed from 2006 to 2015 in Abruzzo, Italy. To compare outcomes between patients with and without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a propensity score matching procedure was performed. (3) Results: During the study period, 140,556 admissions of patients with diabetes were performed. After matching, 18,379 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and 18,379 controls were included in the analyses. Logistic regression analyses showed as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was associated with in-hospital mortality (OR: 1.10; p = 0.036) and PLOS (OR: 1.18; p = 0.002). (4) Conclusions: In a cohort of Italian patients, diabetic patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were associated with in-hospital mortality and PLOS. The definition of the causes of these differences aims to implement public health surveillance and policies.