bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parameter Setting for Strategic Buffers in Demand-Driven Material Resource Planning through Statistical Analysis and Optimisation of Buffer Levels
Authors: Krajčovič Martin , Gabajová Gabriela , Gašo Martin , Schickerle Marek
Published: April 2024

The Demand-Driven Material Resource Planning (DDMRP) method is one of the newer methods of inventory management in an enterprise. Its creation was initiated by a change in the business environment and the characteristics of today’s supply chains. DDMRP brings a combined pull/push approach to inventory management based on creating strategic stacks in the supply chain and managing inventory at these strategic points based on customer orders. The DDMRP system provides a simple methodology that is easy to apply, even in smaller businesses, without the need for advanced information systems. However, a simple methodology also has its limitations because, in many cases, intuitive and subjective approaches are used to set inventory management parameters (variability factor, running time factor, seasonality factor, thresholds, etc.). Simplified parameter determination may, under certain conditions, lead to some storage tanks being too high or too low for certain periods of time. We know from classical inventory management, in the conditions of setting stack parameters in DDMRP, that the deficiency can be eliminated by the use of statistical–analytical approaches and optimisation techniques. This article deals with the issue of setting optimal values of storage tanks in DDMRP, while the correctness of the methodology is verified through simulation of the demand-driven planning process. The correctness and usability of the proposed approaches in sizing strategic reservoirs in DDMRP was confirmed through the results of stimulation experiments.
Analyzing Small-Signal Stability in a Multi-Source Single-Area Power System with a Load-Frequency Controller Coordinated with a Photovoltaic System
Authors: Shahgholian Ghazanfar , Fathollahi Arman
Published: April 2024

The frequency deviation from the nominal working frequency in power systems is a consequence of the imbalance between total electrical loads and the aggregate power supplied by production units. The sensitivity of energy system frequency to both minor and major load variations underscore the need for effective frequency load control mechanisms. In this paper, frequency load control in single-area power system with multi-source energy is analysed and simulated. Also, the effect of the photovoltaic system on the frequency deviation changes in the energy system is shown. In the single area energy system, the dynamics of thermal turbine with reheat, thermal turbine without reheat and hydro turbine are considered. The simulation results using Simulink/Matlab and model analysis using eigenvalue analysis show the dynamic behaviour of the power system in response to changes in the load.
Comparison of Air Pollutants during the Two COVID-19 Lockdown Periods in Winter 2019 and Spring 2022 in Shanghai, China
Authors: Li Yingxuan , Yang Yanrong , Zhang Leying
Published: April 2024

During the winter of 2019, the global outbreak of COVID-19 prompted extensive research on urban air pollution under lockdown measures. However, these studies predominantly focused on winter conditions, thereby limiting investigations into changes in urban air pollutants during other seasons that were also subject to lockdown restrictions. Shanghai, China, has undergone two COVID-19 lockdown periods in two seasons: winter 2019 and spring 2022. The seasonal variations and human activities were represented by meteorological factors and nighttime light brightness in this paper, respectively. The reduction in human-related emissions during the two lockdown periods was estimated based on the targets outlined in China’s Air Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan. The results showed significant reductions in NO2 and PM particles during the two lockdown periods, both accompanied by a notable increase in O3 concentration. In comparison to the winter lockdown, there was an approximate 40% decrease in the NO2 and PM2.5 concentrations in the spring, while the O3 concentration exhibited an increase of 48.81%. Furthermore, due to shifting wind patterns during the two lockdowns from winter to spring, the high-pollution core areas shifted 20–25 km southeastward in the spring. The PM particles and NO2 concentrations exhibited a considerable impact from human activities, whereas the O3 concentration was affected mostly by seasonal change and interactions among air pollutants. Compared to the corresponding non-lockdown condition, the concentration of CO decreased during the winter lockdown; however, it increased during the spring lockdown. The different change in CO concentration during the two lockdown periods was found to have a lower effect on the O3 concentration than that caused by changes in meteorological factors and nitrogen oxide (NO, NO2) concentrations. In summary, the impact of COVID-19 lockdown periods on urban air pollutants was more pronounced in spring compared to winter, and the interactions among air pollutants also underwent alterations.
Port Emissions Assessment: Integrating Emission Measurements and AIS Data for Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Mocerino Luigia , Murena Fabio , Quaranta Franco , Toscano Domenico
Published: April 2024

One of the principal sources of pollution, on a local scale for a water city, with a tourist and commercial port, is certainly the port. Monitoring what is happening here is essential in order to implement suitable measures to control and contain emissions with consideration for the increasingly delicate environmental problem. This paper details the methods and results of an experimental campaign of local-scale emission measurements conducted in the port of Naples for two weeks in 2021. The chosen instrumentation, its setup, post-processing of the data, and an analysis critique of the results will be presented in detail. The campaign is part of broader research attempting to superimpose the concentrations of pollutants measured ashore in the port area with what is emitted by moored ships.
Evaluating Development of Empirical Estimates Using Two Top-Down Methods at Midstream Natural Gas Facilities
Authors: Brown Jenna A. , Harrison Matthew R. , Rufael Tecle , Roman-White Selina A. , Ross Gregory B. , George Fiji C. , Zimmerle Daniel
Published: April 2024

To align with climate initiatives, multiple reporting programs are transitioning from generic activity-based emission factors to site-specific measured emissions data to estimate greenhouse gas emissions at oil and gas facilities. This study contemporaneously deployed two top-down (TD) aerial methods across 14 midstream facilities, building upon previous research in the field. The methods produced multiple whole-facility estimates at each facility, resulting in 773 individual paired estimates (same facility, same day), and robust mean estimates for each facility. Mean estimates for each facility, aggregated across all facilities, differed by nearly 2:1 (49% [32% to 69%]). At 6 of 14 facilities, the methods produced mean estimates that differed by more than a factor of two. These data suggest that one or both methods did not produce accurate facility-level estimates at a majority of facilities and in aggregate across all facilities. The overall results are augmented with two case studies where TD estimates at two pre-selected facilities were coupled with comprehensive onsite measurements to understand the factors driving the divergence between TD and bottom-up (BU) emissions estimates. In 3 of 4 paired comparisons between the intensive onsite estimates and one of the TD methods, the intensive onsite surveys did not conclusively diagnose the difference in estimates. In these cases, our work suggests that the TD methods mis-estimate emissions an unknown fraction of the time, for unknown reasons. While two methods were selected for this study, it is unlikely that the issues identified here are confined to these two methods; similar issues may exist for other similar whole-facility methods on midstream and/or other facility types. These findings have important implications for the construction of voluntary and regulatory reporting programs that rely on emission estimates for reporting fees or penalties, or for studies using whole-facility estimates to aggregate TD emissions to basin or regional estimates.
Comparative Experimental Assessment of Pollutant Emission Behavior in Combustion of Untreated and Thermally Treated Solid Biofuels from Spruce Chips and Rapeseed Straw
Authors: Malaťák Jan , Velebil Jan , Bradna Jiří , Kučera Marián , Gendek Arkadiusz , Aniszewska Monika , Alexiou Ivanova Tatiana
Published: April 2024

Biomass energy for heating is going to be part of the spectrum of renewable energy sources. However, biomass combustion produces emissions of various pollutants with negative effects at both local and global scales. To reduce some of the locally important pollutant load, thermally treated biomass fuels may offer a partial solution. In this study, two biomass feedstocks, i.e., spruce chips and rapeseed straw, were thermally treated at 300 °C to produce biochars. Subsequently, both original materials and biochars were burned in a 25 kW retort combustion device. In both cases, the biochar showed lower emissions of carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, usually almost across the whole range of tested combustion conditions. In total, for the emission production per unit of net calorific value, the spruce biochar showed reductions in CO and NOx productions of 10.8% and 14.5%, respectively. More importantly, in rapeseed straw biochar, the difference was more pronounced. The total production was reduced by 28% and 42%, again in CO and NOx emissions, respectively.
Roles of Epigenetics and Glial Cells in Drug-Induced Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Csoka Antonei B. , El Kouhen Nacer , Bennani Samia , Getachew Bruk , Aschner Michael , Tizabi Yousef
Published: April 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by severe deficits in social communication and interaction, repetitive movements, abnormal focusing on objects, or activity that can significantly affect the quality of life of the afflicted. Neuronal and glial cells have been implicated. It has a genetic component but can also be triggered by environmental factors or drugs. For example, prenatal exposure to valproic acid or acetaminophen, or ingestion of propionic acid, can increase the risk of ASD. Recently, epigenetic influences on ASD have come to the forefront of investigations on the etiology, prevention, and treatment of this disorder. Epigenetics refers to DNA modifications that alter gene expression without making any changes to the DNA sequence. Although an increasing number of pharmaceuticals and environmental chemicals are being implicated in the etiology of ASD, here, we specifically focus on the molecular influences of the abovementioned chemicals on epigenetic alterations in neuronal and glial cells and their potential connection to ASD. We conclude that a better understanding of these phenomena can lead to more effective interventions in ASD.
Sex-Specific Differences and the Role of Environmental Enrichment in the Expression of Hippocampal CB1 Receptors following Chronic Unpredictable Stress
Authors: Dandi Evgenia , Kesidou Evangelia , Simeonidou Constantina , Spandou Evangelia , Grigoriadis Nikolaos , Tata Despina A.
Published: April 2024

Stress-related mental disorders have become increasingly prevalent, thus endangering mental health worldwide. Exploring stress-associated brain alterations is vital for understanding the possible neurobiological mechanisms underlying these changes. Based on existing evidence, the brain endogenous cannabinoid system (ECS) plays a significant role in the stress response, and disruptions in its function are associated with the neurobiology of various stress-related disorders. This study primarily focuses on investigating the impact of chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) on the expression of hippocampal cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptors, part of the ECS, in adult male and female Wistar rats. Additionally, it explores whether environmental enrichment (EE) initiated during adolescence could mitigate the CUS-associated alterations in CB1 expression. Wistar rats, shortly after weaning, were placed in either standard housing (SH) or EE conditions for a duration of 10 weeks. On postnatal day 66, specific subgroups of SH or EE animals underwent a 4-week CUS protocol. Western blot (WB) analysis was conducted in the whole hippocampus of the left brain hemisphere to assess total CB1 protein expression, while immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed on the right hemisphere to estimate the expression of CB1 receptors in certain hippocampal areas (i.e., CA1, CA3 and dentate gyrus-DG). The WB analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in total CB1 protein levels among the groups; however, reduced CB1 expression was found in specific hippocampal sub-regions using IHC. Specifically, CUS significantly decreased CB1 receptor expression in the CA1 and DG of both sexes, whereas in CA3 the CUS-associated decrease was limited to SH males. Interestingly, EE housing proved protective against these reductions. These findings suggest a region and sex-specific endocannabinoid response to chronic stress, emphasizing the role of positive early experiences in the protection of the adolescent brain against adverse conditions later in life.
Rebound Characteristics of Wet-Shotcrete Particle Flow Jet from Wall Based on CFD-DEM
Authors: Chen Lianjun , Zhang Yang , Li Pengcheng , Pan Gang
Published: April 2024

This paper aims to reveal the motion law and collision behaviors of shotcrete particle flow jets. A physical model of the jet flow field composed of a nozzle structure and jet area was constructed and meshes with various sizes were used to mesh the nozzle and jet area. With the basic contact parameters and contact model parameters of the particles set, the CFD-DEM-coupling simulation method was adopted to perform the numerical simulation of concrete-particle-flow-jet impingement. The variation laws of the continuous-phase velocity and pressure drop of the shotcrete, coarse-aggregate motion characteristics, and particle collision behavior under the interaction of the continuous and discrete phases were obtained. The results showed that the velocity field and pressure-drop field of the continuous phase had an ideal symmetry in the XY plane in the stable injection stage, the continuous-phase velocity gradually increased inside the nozzle and gradually decreased after entering the jet area, the continuous-phase pressure drop was the maximum at the nozzle inlet, and the pressure value at the nozzle outlet became atmospheric pressure. The central axis of the particle flow jet was displaced by 0.15 m in the negative direction of the Y-axis under the action of gravity, the diffusion angle of the small particles that exited the nozzle and entered the jet area was larger than that of the large particles, and the large-particle jets were more concentrated and easier to spray into the designated spraying areas. The particle flow reached a stable jet state about 0.3 s after the jet began, and the peak velocity of the 4 mm particles in the flow reached 25 m/s, while the peak velocity of the 12 mm particles was only 19 m/s. The acceleration time for particles of different sizes to reach the peak velocity also varied, and the large particles took longer to reach the maximum velocity: small particles reached their peak within 0.4 m–8 m of the jet area, and large particles reached their peak within 0.8 m–1.2 m of the jet area. The particle velocity peaked within 0.6 m–1 m of the jet area. Particle collision took three forms: particle collision with the inner wall of the nozzle, interparticle collision, and particle collision with the sprayed wall. The collision between the particles and the sprayed wall was the main form leading to the rebound of the wet shotcrete, and the rebound angle after particle collision was uncertain.
Risk Assessment of Road Blockage after Earthquakes
Authors: Sorrentino Luigi , Giresini Linda
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a safety tool to assess the risk of road blockage during and after emergency situations, mainly due to earthquakes. This method can be used by public authorities to calculate the risk of road paths prone to blockage in case of seismic events. Typological classes of elements interfering with roads, such as unreinforced masonry and reinforced concrete buildings, unreinforced masonry and reinforced concrete bridges, retaining walls, and slopes, are considered. The mean annual frequency (MAF) of exceedance of a blockage limit state is calculated for a path with redundant road segments considering fragility curves from the literature. A practical example is presented for Amatrice, a town in Central Italy hit by the 2016 earthquake. After verifying that the MAF of exceedance demand is lower than the capacity for two roads, a strengthening solution is assumed for two buildings in the path, resulting in a reduction by more than 50% of the MAF demand. For a higher safety level, a bypass is proposed obtaining a demand/capacity ratios four orders of magnitude lower than that obtained with strengthening solutions, highlighting and quantifying the beneficial effect of removing vulnerable structures along the path.
Utilization of Waste-Expanded Thermoplastic as a Sustainable Filler for Cement-Based Composites for Greener Construction
Authors: Pokorný Jaroslav , Zárybnická Lucie , Ševčík Radek , Podolka Luboš
Published: April 2024

Plastics represent an integral part of our everyday lives, with various functions from packaging materials to insulation layers in our buildings. Pure expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a good example of a fully recyclable material. However, once polluted with other materials or substances, EPS becomes a serious environmental burden. In this work, waste EPS for the production of greener building composites with balanced properties and utility value was investigated. Natural aggregate (2/4 mm) was substituted with corresponding fractions of a thermoplastic alternative in portions of 25, 50, 75, and 100 vol.%. The comprehensive experimental investigation evaluated physical and mechanical properties, heat transport and accumulation, and water absorption characteristics. Due to the uniformly distributed plastic particles in the hardened cement-based matrix, the data revealed an important reduction in the dead weight of produced mortars, which also reduced thermal conductivity by up to 47%. On one hand, lightweight mortars showed partially reduced mechanical resistivity; on the other hand, the EPS bead-modified structure turned out to be effective in liquid water transport reduction.
Study on the Mechanical Properties and Design Method of Frame-Unit Bamboo Culm Members Based on Semi-Rigid Joints
Authors: Wang Guojin , Zhuo Xin , Zhang Shenbin , Wu Jie
Published: April 2024

The frame-unit bamboo culm structure system offers a novel approach to bamboo structure, combining advantages like reduced construction times and simplified joint designs. Despite its benefits, there is limited research on its mechanical properties and computational methodologies. This study conducted bending performance tests on simply supported frame-unit bamboo culm structures, revealing that the bending stiffness of the structure increases with the number of bolts in the edge joints, though with diminishing efficiency. Based on the experimental observations, a calculation model for this type of structure was established, proposing formulas to describe the stiffness relationships between the corner joints, edge joint, and the overall structure. Numerical simulations calculated the stiffness of the edge joint as a function of the number and placement of bolts, indicating that positioning bolts closer to the outer side enhances edge joint stiffness. By inputting the various rotational stiffness values of corner joints into the simulations and stiffness formulas, consistent total stiffness values were obtained, validating the proposed stiffness relationship formulas. The average stiffness values of the corner joints were derived from these formulas and experimental data, and the rotational stiffness of other types of corner points can also be obtained using this method. Furthermore, a finite element computational method tailored for this structural system was introduced, converting the actual structure into a beam element model for calculation. The equivalent joint forces can be distributed to various components of the actual structure, resulting in the internal force distribution of bamboo culms and bolts in the actual structure, thus achieving the design of the components. The calculated displacement values obtained from this method are close to the displacement values in the experiment, proving the feasibility of this method.
Seismic Performance Analysis of Concrete Columns Reinforced with Prestressed Wire Ropes Embedded in Polyurethane Cement Composites
Authors: Guo Runqi , Zhang Haiying , Chen Kezheng , Song Yang , Li Hongxia , Ding Lin , Liu Yanjie
Published: April 2024

In order to improve the seismic performance of reinforced concrete (RC) columns, a reinforcement technology using prestressed steel wire ropes embedded in polyurethane cement composite material is proposed. Four concrete columns reinforced with different materials were subjected to a combination of axial compression and horizontally repeated loading tests (one of which was not reinforced, while the remaining three were reinforced with prestressed steel wire rope, polyurethane cement composite material, and prestressed steel wire ropes embedded in polyurethane cement composite material). The experimental results show that the ductility and energy dissipation capacity of reinforced concrete columns after reinforcement are significantly improved. After strengthening with prestressed steel wire ropes embedded in polyurethane cement composite material, the ultimate horizontal displacement and energy dissipation capacity of reinforced concrete columns were significantly improved, which were 69% and 3.2 times higher than those of unreinforced columns, respectively.
Excavation Effects on Reinforced Concrete Pile Foundations: A Numerical Analysis
Authors: Li Dong , Yi Fei , Li Xiang , Chen Shiwen , Hu Zheng , Liu Jiankun
Published: April 2024

The intricacies of foundation pit engineering often result in alterations to the surrounding environment, posing potential threats to the safe operation of nearby buildings and pile foundations. This study employs finite element numerical simulation to scrutinize the influence of vacuum preloading pressure, preloading duration, excavation slope ratio, excavation duration, and retaining pile wall depth on the stress and deformation of existing plain concrete pile foundations. The findings reveal that the impacts of excavation are primarily absorbed by both proximal and distal piles in relation to the pit. Moreover, elevating vacuum preloading pressure and extending the preloading duration during dewatering can lead to increased internal forces and displacement of the piles. Changes in excavation slope ratio exhibit minimal effects, while prolonged excavation duration can shift internal forces from predominantly positive to negative, with negligible impact on horizontal displacement. Importantly, augmenting the depth of the retaining pile wall embedding effectively mitigates the effects of pit excavation.
Colorectal Cancer Pulmonary Metastasectomy: When, Why and How
Authors: Petrella Francesco , Danuzzo Federica , Sibilia Maria , Vaquer Sara , Longarini Raffaella , Guidi Alessandro , Raveglia Federico , Libretti Lidia , Pirondini Emanuele , Cara Andrea , Cassina Enrico , Tuoro Antonio , Cortinovis Diego
Published: April 2024

Colorectal cancer is the third-most-diagnosed cancer in males and in females, representing 8% of estimated new cases, and the third cause of cancer-related death in both sexes, accounting for 9% of cancer deaths in men and 8% in women. About 20% of patients diagnosed with CRC present metastatic disease. Although lung metachronous or synchronous metastatic spread without other involved sites has been reported in only a small proportion of patients, considering that this tumor is frequently diagnosed, the clinical approach to CRC pulmonary metastases represents a major issue for thoracic surgeons and CRC oncologists. Among patients diagnosed with pulmonary metastases from CRC, about 9–12% are eligible for local treatments with radical intent, including surgical resection, SBRT (stereotactic body radiation therapy) and ablation therapy. Due to the lack of randomized controlled trials among different local strategies, there is no definitive evidence about the optimal approach, although surgical resection is considered the most effective therapeutic option in this clinical scenario. Oncological achievement of primary radical resection, the biology of primary tumor and metastatic sites, disease free interval and or progression free survival are independent prognostic factors which make it possible to define a cohort of patients which might significantly benefit from pulmonary metastasectomy.
Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Prevalence of Actionable Alterations in a Monocentric Consecutive Cohort
Authors: Bruno Rossella , Poma Anello Marcello , Panozzi Martina , Lenzini Alessandra , Elia Gianmarco , Zirafa Carmelina Cristina , Aprile Vittorio , Ambrogi Marcello Carlo , Baldini Editta , Lucchi Marco , Melfi Franca , Chella Antonio , Sbrana Andrea , Alì Greta
Published: April 2024

Early-stage (ES) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is diagnosed in about 30% of cases. The preferred treatment is surgery, but a significant proportion of patients experience recurrence. Neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy has a limited clinical benefit. EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immunotherapy have recently opened new therapeutic scenarios. However, only a few data are available about the ES-NSCLC molecular landscape and the impact of oncogene addiction on therapy definition. Here, we determined the prevalence of the main lung cancer driver alterations in a monocentric consecutive cohort. Molecular analysis was performed on 1122 cases, including 368 ES and 754 advanced NSCLC. The prevalence of actionable alterations was similar between early and advanced stages. ES-NSCLC was significantly enriched for MET exon-14 skipping alterations and presented a lower prevalence of BRAF p.(V600E) mutation. PD-L1 expression levels, evaluated according to actionable alterations, were higher in advanced than early tumors harboring EGFR, KRAS, MET alterations and gene fusions. Taken together, these results confirm the value of biomarker testing in ES-NSCLC. Although approved targeted therapies for ES-NSCLC are still limited, the identification of actionable alterations could improve patients’ selection for immunotherapy, favoring the enrollment in clinical trials and allowing a faster treatment start at disease recurrence.
Late Relapse after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients Treated for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Relapse Incidence, Characteristics, Role of Conditioning Regimen, and Outcome
Authors: Antier Chloé , Jullien Maxime , Tessoulin Benoît , Loirat Marion , Peterlin Pierre , Garnier Alice , Le Bourgeois Amandine , Chevallier Patrice , Guillaume Thierry
Published: April 2024

Late relapse, beyond 2 years following alloHSCT for AML, is rare. Among the 376 patients allografted for AML in our center between 1990 and 2016, 142 (38%) relapsed. The majority (68%) of relapses occurred during the first year following transplantation. Beyond 2 years after alloHSCT, relapse was observed in 26 patients, representing 6.9% of the whole transplanted cohort and 18.3% of the relapsing patients. Cytogenetics at relapse was available in 21 patients and remained for 15 of them concordant to that at diagnosis. The majority (85.7%) of the patients were in CR prior to transplant. Thirteen patients had grade 1–2 acute GvHD, while 13 other patients had grade 3–4 acute GvHD. None of these patients subsequently developed chronic GvHD. In multivariate analyses, a predictive factor of the absence of relapse 2 years after transplantation was the development of extensive chronic GVHD. Salvage therapy achieved new CR in 77% of these patients. We conclude that late relapse can affect a significant minority of patients allografted for AML, and the intensity of the conditioning regimen does not seem to have an impact on these relapses. Moreover, we were able to show that those patients can receive effective salvage therapy.
Valorization of Reground Pasta By-Product through PHA Production with Phototrophic Purple Bacteria
Authors: Marchetti Angela , Palhas Miguel , Villano Marianna , Fradinho Joana
Published: April 2024

Annually, the food industry generates large amounts of waste and by-products, causing serious problems in their management and final disposal. In particular, by-products are mainly recovered as livestock feed. A most appealing strategy to valorize them has herein been investigated, through polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production. In this view, a stream rich in volatile fatty acids deriving from the acidogenic fermentation of reground pasta (RP), a farinaceous food-industry by-product, was used as a carbon source for PHA production with a phototrophic purple bacteria (PPB) consortium. PPB are very versatile organisms that present a unique metabolism allowing them to adapt to a variety of environmental conditions. The PPB-PHA enrichment phase was performed in a lab-scale semi-continuous photo-bioreactor under a permanent carbon feast regime, with organic loading rate (OLR) increments from 14 to 19 mmolC/Ld. The results showed that the fermented RP solution composition (with 23.4% of HV precursors on a COD basis) was suitable for the PHBHV copolymer production, with the PPB consortium being capable of reaching a very high content in the hydroxyvalerate (HV) monomer, with a maximum of 60% (gHV/gPHA). Regarding the PHA accumulation stage where the light intensity was increased up to 20.2 W/L, a further increase in the culture PHA content by 76% after 12 h was obtained. Overall, these results open the possibility of valorizing food-industry by-products through the development of a biocatalytic process for PHA production with PPB, thus making the overall approach more sustainable from a green perspective.
Simultaneous Environmental Waste Management through Deep Dewatering of Alum Sludge Using Waste-Derived Cellulose
Authors: Nour Manasik M. , Tony Maha A.
Published: April 2024

To simultaneously solve problems in an eco-friendly manner, introducing a waste residual as a sustainable conditioner to aid alum sludge dewatering is suggested as a cradle-to-cradle form of waste management. In this regard, the superiority of deep dewatering alum sludge with a powdered wood chip composite residual as a novel conditioner was explored, whereby traditional conventional conditioners, i.e., polyelectrolytes and lime, were substituted with powdered wood chips. Initially, Fe3O4 was prepared at the nanoscale using a simple co-precipitation route. Next, wooden waste was chemically and thermally treated to attain cellulosic fine powder. Subsequently, the resultant wood powder and Fe3O4 nanoparticles were mixed at 50 wt % to attain a wood powder augmented with iron, and this conditioner was labeled nano-iron-cellulose (nIC-Conditioner). This material (nIC-Conditioner) was mixed with hydrogen peroxide to represent a dual oxidation and skeleton builder conditioning substance. Characterization of the resultant conditioner was carried out using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) transmittance spectrum analysis. The feasibility of the experimental results revealed that the moisture content in the sludge cake was lower after conditioning, and the capillary suction time (CST) was reduced to 78% compared to that of raw alum sludge after 5 min of dewatering time. Moreover, the optimal system parameters, including nIC-Conditioner and H2O2 concentrations, as well as the working pH, were optimized, and optimal values were recorded at 1 g/L and 200 mg/L for nIC-Conditioner and H2O2, respectively, with a pH of 6.5. Additionally, scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses of the sludge prior to and after conditioning were conducted to verify the change in sludge molecules due to this conditioning technique. The results of this study confirm the sustainability of an alum sludge and waste management facility.
Identifying Candidate Polyphenols Beneficial for Oxidative Liver Injury through Multiscale Network Analysis
Authors: Han Sang Yun , Kim Ji-Hwan , Bae Gi-Sang , Lee Won-Yung
Published: April 2024

Oxidative stress, a driver of liver pathology, remains a challenge in clinical management, necessitating innovative approaches. In this research, we delved into the therapeutic potential of polyphenols for oxidative liver injury using a multiscale network analysis framework. From the Phenol-Explorer database, we curated a list of polyphenols along with their corresponding PubChem IDs. Verified target information was then collated from multiple databases. We subsequently measured the propagative effects of these compounds and prioritized a ranking based on their correlation scores for oxidative liver injury. This result underwent evaluation to discern its effectiveness in differentiating between known and unknown polyphenols, demonstrating superior performance over chance level in distinguishing these compounds. We found that lariciresinol and isopimpinellin yielded high correlation scores in relation to oxidative liver injury without reported evidence. By analyzing the impact on a multiscale network, we found that lariciresinol and isopimpinellin were predicted to offer beneficial effects on the disease by directly acting on targets such as CASP3, NR1I2, and CYP3A4 or by modulating biological functions related to the apoptotic process and oxidative stress. This study not only corroborates the efficacy of identified polyphenols in liver health but also opens avenues for future investigations into their mechanistic actions.
Microstructure and Wear Performance of High-Velocity Arc Sprayed FeMnCrNiBNbAl Coating
Authors: Qiang Wenhui , Kang Min , Liu Jitao , Ndumia Joseph Ndiithi
Published: April 2024

In this study, FeMnCrNiBNbAl wear-resistant coatings were prepared via high-velocity arc spraying technology on the surface of Q235 steel. The effects of spraying distance, voltage, and current on the coating performance were studied via the orthogonal experimental method with microhardness and porosity as evaluation indicators, and the process parameters were optimized. The order of primary and secondary factors affecting coating performance were: spraying distance, voltage, and current. The optimized process parameters are: spraying distance 200 mm, voltage 36 V, and current 240 A. The coating prepared using the optimized process parameters has an average microhardness of 756 HV0.1 and an average porosity of 1.03%. The coating mainly consists of α-Fe, Fe-Cr, Ni-Cr-Fe, Al2O3, and (Fe, Ni) solid solution. The coating friction coefficient was 0.5 while that of the substrate was 0.7. The depth and width of the wear marks of the coating were 6.32 µm and 555.41 µm, respectively, which are 66% and 32% lower in comparison with Q235 steel under the same test conditions. The wear forms of this coating were mainly fatigue peeling and adhesive wear.
Influence of Solid Waste Material Content on the Properties of Steel Slag-Waste Clay Brick Ceramic Bricks
Authors: Ji Ying , Li Enyao , Zhu Gang , Wang Ruiqi , Sha Qianqian
Published: April 2024

Steel slag and waste clay brick are two common solid wastes in industrial production, and their complex chemical compositions pose challenges to the production of traditional alumina silicate ceramics. To investigate the influence of steel slag and waste clay brick on the performance of CaO–SiO2–MgO ceramic materials, this study examined their effects on the mechanical properties, crystal composition, and microstructure of the ceramics through single-factor experiments. The results demonstrate that when keeping the dosage of waste clay brick and talcum powder constant, a 43% dosage of steel slag yields optimal performance for the ceramic materials with a modulus of rupture of 73.01 MPa and a water absorption rate as low as 0.037%. Similarly, when maintaining a constant dosage of steel slag and talcum powder, a 41% dosage of waste clay brick leads to superior performance of the ceramic materials, with a modulus of rupture reaching 82.17 MPa and a water absorption rate only at 0.071%. Furthermore, when keeping the dosage of steel slag and waste clay brick constant, employing a talcum powder dosage of 24% results in excellent performance for the ceramic materials with a modulus of rupture measuring 73.01 MPa while maintaining an extremely low water absorption rate at only 0.037%. It is noteworthy that steel slag contributes to akermanite phase formation while talcum powder and waste clay brick contribute to diopside phase formation.
An Announced Extinction: The Impacts of Mining on the Persistence of Arthrocereus glaziovii, a Microendemic Species of Campos Rupestres
Authors: Moreira Patrícia de Abreu , Pires Andrea , Beirão Marina do Vale
Published: April 2024

The mountaintops of eastern Brazil harbor the highest rates of plant endemism in South America. However, local biodiversity faces constant threats due to habitat loss and mining activities. About 89 rare and endangered species are exclusive to this region, including the threatened species Arthrocereus glaziovii. This study aims to evaluate the potential distribution of A. glaziovii based on abiotic variables and soil elements and to characterize the distribution of mineral titles that may restrict the species’ occurrence areas. We used the Bioclim, Domain, MaxEnt, GLM, and Random Forest algorithms to model this ecological niche under future climatic scenarios, in addition to modeling the layers of mineral titles corresponding to areas already mined and those slated for future mining projects. Our predictions indicate an expansion in the future distribution of A. glaziovii. Nevertheless, the future predicted occurrence areas of the species are already compromised due to mining. According to our findings, we emphasize the looming threat of the predicted extinction of this species. Therefore, implementing conservation strategies to ensure the survival of A. glaziovii is imperative.
Determining the Need for Metastatic Staging in Patients with Bilateral Breast Cancers
Authors: Alcantara Veronica Siton , Chan Sut Mo Zachary , Wong Fuh Yong , Allen John Carson , Lim Geok Hoon
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Bilateral breast cancers (BBC) diagnosed at an interval apart are uncommon. While metastatic staging guidelines are established in patients with unilateral breast cancer, its role in BBC diagnosed at an interval apart is unclear. We aim to identify the subgroup who would benefit from metastatic staging at contralateral cancer diagnosis. Methods: Eligible patients were divided into three categories: (A) ipsilateral invasive cancer and contralateral ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), (B) bilateral invasive cancers and (C) ipsilateral DCIS and contralateral invasive cancer and reviewed retrospectively. We excluded patients with bilateral DCIS, synchronous BBC diagnosed within 6 months from first cancer, patients who were stage IV at first cancer diagnosis and patients with recurrence prior to contralateral cancer. Results: Of 4516 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients, 79 patients were included. Systemic metastasis occurred in 15.6% of patients in Group B. Having nodal positivity of either cancer which were diagnosed ≤30 months apart and nodal positivity of only the contralateral cancer when diagnosed >30 months apart was significantly associated with systemic metastasis (p = 0.0322). Conclusions: Both the nodal status and a 30 months cut-off time interval between the two cancers can be used to identify patients who will benefit from metastatic staging. This finding requires validation in larger studies.
Diagnostic Accuracy of the Triglyceride–Glucose Index (TyG), TyG Body Mass Index, and TyG Waist Circumference Index for Liver Steatosis Detection
Authors: Mijangos-Trejo Alejandra , Gómez-Mendoza Raúl , Ramos-Ostos Martha Helena , Castro-Narro Graciela , Uribe Misael , Juárez-Hernández Eva , López-Méndez Iván
Published: April 2024

Background: The triglyceride–glucose index (TyG) and a combination of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) have been proposed as predictive scores for liver steatosis (LS). The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of these indices compared with controlled attenuation parameters (CAPs) and other predictive scores of LS. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients who attended a check-up unit in 2021 was performed. LS was determined by CAP. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters for calculating TyG, TyG-BMI, TyG-WC, fatty liver index, and hepatic steatosis index were obtained. ROC curve was used to establish the best cut-off point of each TyG index for LS detection. The accuracy was determined for all patients, as well as for overweight and diabetic patients. Results: Medical records of 855 patients with a median age of 48 [IQR, 44–54] years and a BMI of 25.7 [IQR 23.4–28.1] kg/m2 were included. According to CAP, LS prevalence was 31.8% (n = 272). TyG-BMI and TyG-WC show better AUCs compared with CAP (0.82, 0.81), FLI (0.96, both), and HSI (0.93, 0.85). For diabetic patients, TyG-WC shows an AUC of 0.70. Meanwhile, TyG-BMI shows better accuracy (0.75) compared with CAP. Conclusions: TyG-BMI and TyG-WC showed a superior predictive accuracy for detecting LS compared with the TyG index.
Diagnosing Cystic Fibrosis in the 21st Century—A Complex and Challenging Task
Authors: Anton-Păduraru Dana-Teodora , Azoicăi Alice Nicoleta , Trofin Felicia , Mîndru Dana Elena , Murgu Alina Mariela , Bocec Ana Simona , Iliescu Halițchi Codruța Olimpiada , Ciongradi Carmen Iulia , Sȃrbu Ioan , Iliescu Maria Liliana
Published: April 2024

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a chronic and potentially life-threatening condition, wherein timely diagnosis assumes paramount significance for the prompt initiation of therapeutic interventions, thereby ameliorating pulmonary function, addressing nutritional deficits, averting complications, mitigating morbidity, and ultimately enhancing the quality of life and extending longevity. This review aims to amalgamate existing knowledge to provide a comprehensive appraisal of contemporary diagnostic modalities pertinent to CF in the 21st century. Deliberations encompass discrete delineations of each diagnostic modality and the elucidation of potential diagnostic quandaries encountered in select instances, as well as the delineation of genotype–phenotype correlations germane to genetic counseling endeavors. The synthesis underscores that, notwithstanding the availability and strides in diagnostic methodologies, including genetic assays, the sweat test (ST) retains its position as the preeminent diagnostic standard for CF, serving as a robust surrogate for CFTR functionality. Prospective clinical investigations in the realm of CF should be orchestrated with the objective of discerning novel diagnostic modalities endowed with heightened specificity and sensitivity.
The Mamba: A Suspended Manipulator to Sample Plants in Cliff Environments
Authors: La Vigne Hughes , Charron Guillaume , Rancourt David , Lussier Desbiens Alexis
Published: April 2024

Conservation efforts in cliff habitats pose unique challenges due to their inaccessibility, limiting the study and protection of rare endemic species. This project introduces a novel approach utilizing aerial manipulation through a suspended manipulator attached with a cable under a drone to address these challenges. Unlike existing solutions, the Mamba provides a horizontal reach up to 8 m to approach cliffs while keeping the drone at a safe distance. The system includes a model-based control system relying solely on an inertial measurement unit (IMU), reducing sensor requirements and computing power to minimize overall system mass. This article presents novel contributions such as a double pendulum dynamic modeling approach and the development and evaluation of a precise control system for sampling operations. Indoor and outdoor tests demonstrate the effectiveness of the suspended aerial manipulator in real-world environments allowing the collection of 55 samples from 28 different species. This research signifies a significant step toward enhancing the efficiency and safety of conservation efforts in challenging cliff habitats.
Surrogate Optimal Fractional Control for Constrained Operational Service of UAV Systems
Authors: Moness Mohammed , Abdelghany Muhammad Bakr , Mohammed Khloud Mostafa , Mohamed Moataz , Moustafa Ahmed M.
Published: April 2024

In the expeditiously evolving discipline of autonomous aerial robotics, the efficiency and precision of drone control deliveries have become predominant. Different control strategies for UAV systems have been thoroughly investigated, yet PID controllers still receive significant consideration at various levels in the control loop. Although fractional-order PID controllers (FOPID) have greater flexibility than integer-order PID (IOPID) controllers, they are approached with caution and hesitance. This is due to the fact that FOPID controllers are more computationally intensive to tune, as well as being more challenging to implement accurately in real time. In this paper, we address this problem by developing and implementing a surrogate-based analysis and optimization (SBAO) of a relatively high-order approximation of FOPID controllers. The proposed approach was verified through two case studies; a simulation quadrotor benchmark model for waypoint navigation, and a real-time twin-rotor copter system. The obtained results validated and favored the SBAO approach over other classical heuristic methods for IOPID and FOPID.
ZUST Campus: A Lightweight and Practical LiDAR SLAM Dataset for Autonomous Driving Scenarios
Authors: He Yuhang , Li Bo , Ruan Jianyuan , Yu Aihua , Hou Beiping
Published: April 2024

This research proposes a lightweight and applicable dataset with a precise elevation ground truth and extrinsic calibration toward the LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) task in the field of autonomous driving. Our dataset focuses on more cost-effective platforms with limited computational power and low-resolution three-dimensional LiDAR sensors (16-beam LiDAR), and fills the gaps in the existing literature. Our data include abundant scenarios that include degenerated environments, dynamic objects, and large slope terrain to facilitate the investigation of the performance of the SLAM system. We provided the ground truth pose from RTK-GPS and carefully rectified its elevation errors, and designed an extra method to evaluate the vertical drift. The module for calibrating the LiDAR and IMU was also enhanced to ensure the precision of point cloud data. The reliability and applicability of the dataset are fully tested through a series of experiments using several state-of-the-art LiDAR SLAM methods.