bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain Natriuretic Peptide Protects Cardiomyocytes from Apoptosis and Stimulates Their Cell Cycle Re-Entry in Mouse Infarcted Hearts
Authors: Bon-Mathier Anne-Charlotte , Déglise Tamara , Rignault-Clerc Stéphanie , Bielmann Christelle , Mazzolai Lucia , Rosenblatt-Velin Nathalie
Published: December 2022

Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) supplementation after infarction increases heart function and decreases heart remodeling. BNP receptors, NPR-A and NPR-B are expressed on adult cardiomyocytes (CMs). We investigated whether a part of the BNP cardioprotective effect in infarcted and unmanipulated hearts is due to modulation of the CM fate. For this purpose, infarcted adult male mice were intraperitoneally injected every two days during 2 weeks with BNP or saline. Mice were sacrificed 1 and 14 days after surgery. BNP or saline was also injected intraperitoneally every two days into neonatal pups (3 days after birth) for 10 days and in unmanipulated 8-week-old male mice for 2 weeks. At sacrifice, CMs were isolated, counted, measured, and characterized by qRT-PCR. The proportion of mononucleated CMs was determined. Immunostainings aimed to detect CM re-entry in the cell cycle were performed on the different hearts. Finally, the signaling pathway activated by BNP treatment was identified in in vitro BNP-treated adult CMs and in CMs isolated from BNP-treated hearts. An increased number of CMs was detected in the hypoxic area of infarcted hearts, and in unmanipulated neonatal and adult hearts after BNP treatment. Accordingly, Troponin T plasma concentration was significantly reduced 1 and 3 days after infarction in BNP-treated mice, demonstrating less CM death. Furthermore, higher number of small, dedifferentiated and mononucleated CMs were identified in adult BNP-treated hearts when compared to saline-treated hearts. BNP-treated CMs express higher levels of mRNAs coding for hif1 alpha and for the different cyclins than CMs isolated from saline-treated hearts. Higher percentages of CMs undergoing DNA synthesis, expressing Ki67, phospho histone3 and Aurora B were detected in all BNP-treated hearts, demonstrating that CMs re-enter into the cell cycle. BNP effect on adult CMs in vivo is mediated by NPR-A binding and activation of the ERK MAP kinase pathway. Interestingly, an increased number of CMs was also detected in adult infarcted hearts treated with LCZ696, an inhibitor of the natriuretic peptide degradation. Altogether, our results identified BNP and all therapies aimed to increase BNP’s bioavailability as new cardioprotective targets as BNP treatment leads to an increased number of CMs in neonatal, adult unmanipulated and infarcted hearts.
Association of CSF GAP-43 and APOE ε4 with Cognition in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Zhu Yueli , Guo Xiaoming , Zhu Feng , Zhang Qin , Yang Yunmei ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: December 2022

The growth-associated protein 43 (GAP-43) is a presynaptic phosphoprotein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The ε4 allele of apolipoprotein E (APOE) is an important genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We aimed to evaluate the association of CSF GAP-43 with cognition and whether this correlation was related to the APOE ε4 status. We recruited participants from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database, and they were divided into cognitively normal (CN) ε4 negative (CN ε4−), CN ε4 positive (CN ε4+), mild cognitive impairment (MCI) ε4 negative (MCI ε4−), MCI ε4 positive (MCI ε4+), AD ε4 negative (AD ε4−), and AD ε4 positive (AD ε4+) groups. Spearman’s correlation was utilized to evaluate the relationship between CSF GAP-43 and core AD biomarkers at the baseline. We performed receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of CSF GAP-43. The correlations between CSF GAP-43 and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and brain atrophy at baseline were assessed by using multiple linear regression, while the association between CSF GAP-43 and MMSE scores at the follow-up was tested by performing the generalized estimating equation (GEE). The role of CSF GAP-43 in the conversion from MCI to AD was evaluated using the Cox proportional hazard model. We found that the CSF GAP-43 level was significantly increased in MCI ε4+, AD ε4− and AD ε4+ groups compared with CN ε4− or MCI ε4− group. The negative associations between the CSF GAP-43 and MMSE scores at the baseline and follow-up were found in MCI ε4− and MCI ε4+ groups. In addition, baseline CSF GAP-43 was able to predict the clinical progression from MCI to AD. CSF GAP-43 may be a promising biomarker to screen cognition for AD. The effects of CSF GAP-43 on cognition were suspected to be relevant to APOE ε4 status.
Ultraviolet Light Treatment of Titanium Microfiber Scaffolds Enhances Osteoblast Recruitment and Osteoconductivity in a Vertical Bone Augmentation Model: 3D UV Photofunctionalization
Authors: Kitajima Hiroaki , Hirota Makoto , Komatsu Keiji , Isono Hitoshi , Matsuura Takanori , Mitsudo Kenji , Ogawa Takahiro
Published: December 2022

Vertical bone augmentation to create host bone prior to implant placement is one of the most challenging regenerative procedures. The objective of this study is to evaluate the capacity of a UV-photofunctionalized titanium microfiber scaffold to recruit osteoblasts, generate intra-scaffold bone, and integrate with host bone in a vertical augmentation model with unidirectional, limited blood supply. Scaffolds were fabricated by molding and sintering grade 1 commercially pure titanium microfibers (20 μm diameter) and treated with UVC light (200–280 nm wavelength) emitted from a low-pressure mercury lamp for 20 min immediately before experiments. The scaffolds had an even and dense fiber network with 87% porosity and 20–50 mm inter-fiber distance. Surface carbon reduced from 30% on untreated scaffold to 10% after UV treatment, which corresponded to hydro-repellent to superhydrophilic conversion. Vertical infiltration testing revealed that UV-treated scaffolds absorbed 4-, 14-, and 15-times more blood, water, and glycerol than untreated scaffolds, respectively. In vitro, four-times more osteoblasts attached to UV-treated scaffolds than untreated scaffolds three hours after seeding. On day 2, there were 70% more osteoblasts on UV-treated scaffolds. Fluorescent microscopy visualized confluent osteoblasts on UV-treated microfibers two days after seeding but sparse and separated cells on untreated microfibers. Alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin gene expression were significantly greater in osteoblasts grown on UV-treated microfiber scaffolds. In an in vivo model of vertical augmentation on rat femoral cortical bone, the interfacial strength between innate cortical bone and UV-treated microfiber scaffold after two weeks of healing was double that observed between bone and untreated scaffold. Morphological and chemical analysis confirmed seamless integration of the innate cortical and regenerated bone within microfiber networks for UV-treated scaffolds. These results indicate synergy between titanium microfiber scaffolds and UV photofunctionalization to provide a novel and effective strategy for vertical bone augmentation.
Screen-Printed Sensors Coated with Polyaniline/Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Membranes for the Potentiometric Determination of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid Herbicide in Wastewater and Agricultural Soil
Authors: El-Beshlawy Menna M. , Abdel-Haleem Fatehy M. , Kamel Ayman H. , Barhoum Ahmed
Published: December 2022

2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is a widely used herbicide worldwide. However, its residues in agricultural products are extremely harmful to human health and to the environment in soil and water. Previous methods for determining 2,4-D in water and soil samples are expensive, cumbersome, and not highly selective. In this study, we developed a novel disposal sensor based on screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) for detecting 2,4-D in wastewater and soil samples. The SPEs were modified with conductive polyaniline (PANI) layer and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane loaded with molecularly printed polymer (MIP). The MIP particles were prepared using 2,4-D as template, methacrylic acid (MAA) as monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as cross-linker, and benzoyl peroxide as initiator. The best sensor shows a dynamic concentration range of 10−2 to 10−7 M 2,4-D, a detection limit (LOD) of 3.6 × 10−7 M, Nernst slope (response) of 29.9 mV/decade, and high selectivity over other interfering species previously reported in the literature. The sensors also achieved a short response time of 25 s, high reversibility, and a lifetime of over 2 weeks. The developed sensors were successfully used for determining 2,4-D in real wastewater and soil samples with high accuracy and precision.
The Effects of Chinese Parenting Belief on Preschoolers’ Temperament and Secure Attachment
Authors: Wu Chung Chin
Published: December 2022

In the past, there were a few studies investigating the effects of parenting belief on preschoolers’ temperament and secure attachment. There were some inconsistencies; some effects were also unclear. A total of 2164 parents of three-year-old preschoolers were selected for a panel study named National Longitudinal Study of Child Development and Care. At first, confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to examine construct validity of Chinese parenting belief, preschoolers’ temperament, and secure attachment. Consecutively, the effects of Chinese parenting belief on preschoolers’ temperament and secure attachment were investigated through structural equation modeling. Results showed: (1) construct validity of Chinese parenting belief (composed of Guan, Jiao, achievement, and Chi beliefs), preschoolers’ temperament (composed of extraversion, effortful control, and negative affection temperament) and secure attachment were good. (2) The Guan belief showed no effects on all temperaments and secure attachment. (3) Only Jiao belief contributed to the development of extraversion, effortful control, negative affection, and secure attachment. (4) The Achievement belief had a detrimental effect on the development of secure attachment, but it had no effects on others. (5) The Chi belief can increase the development of negative affection temperament, but it had no effects on the rest.
The Potential of Stilbene Compounds to Inhibit Mpro Protease as a Natural Treatment Strategy for Coronavirus Disease-2019
Authors: Naseem Ayesha , Rasool Fatima , Ahmed Abrar , Carter Wayne G.
Published: December 2022

COVID-19 disease has had a global impact on human health with increased levels of morbidity and mortality. There is an unmet need to design and produce effective antivirals to treat COVID-19. This study aimed to explore the potential ability of natural stilbenes to inhibit the Mpro protease, an acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) enzyme involved in viral replication. The binding affinities of stilbene compounds against Mpro were scrutinized using molecular docking, prime molecular mechanics-generalized Born surface area (MM-GBSA) energy calculations, and molecular dynamic simulations. Seven stilbene molecules were docked with Mpro and compared with GC376 and N3, antivirals with demonstrated efficacy against Mpro. Ligand binding efficiencies and polar and non-polar interactions between stilbene compounds and Mpro were analyzed. The binding affinities of astringin, isorhapontin, and piceatannol were −9.319, −8.166, and −6.291 kcal/mol, respectively, and higher than either GC376 or N3 at −6.976 and −6.345 kcal/mol, respectively. Prime MM-GBSA revealed that these stilbene compounds exhibited useful ligand efficacy and binding affinity to Mpro. Molecular dynamic simulation studies of astringin, isorhapontin, and piceatannol showed their stability at 300 K throughout the simulation time. Collectively, these results suggest that stilbenes such as astringin, isorhapontin, and piceatannol could provide useful natural inhibitors of Mpro and thereby act as novel treatments to limit SARS-CoV-2 replication.
The Effects of Using Cements of Different Thicknesses and Amalgam Restorations with Different Young’s Modulus Values on Stress on Dental Tissue: An Investigation Using Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Gönder Hakan Yasin , Demirel Mehmet Gökberkkaan , Mohammadi Reza , Alkurt Sinem , Fidancioğlu Yasemin Derya , Yüksel Ibrahim Burak
Published: December 2022

Background: In this study, it was aimed to use a finite element stress analysis method to determine the amount of stress on enamel, dentin, restoration, resin cement and glass ionomer cement in amalgam class II disto-occlusal (DO) cavities by using two different cements with different thicknesses and amalgams with different Young’ s modulus values, respectively. Methods: A three-dimensional tooth model was obtained by scanning an extracted human maxillary first molar with dental tomography. A class II DO cavity including 95-degree cavity margin angles was created. Resin cement (RC) and glass ionomer (GI) cement with different Young’ s modulus measures (RC: 7.7 GPa, GI: 10.8 GPa) were used in amalgam. Different thickness combination groups were simulated: 50 μm, 100 μm and 150 μm. Additionally, amalgams with different Young’ s modulus values were used with the same thickness of different cements (Amalgam Young’s modulus: 35 GPa and 50 GPa). A load of 600 N was delivered to the chewing area. The stress distributions on enamel, dentin, restoration, resin cement and class ionomer cement were then analyzed using finite element analysis. Results: The most stress accumulation was observed in the enamel tissue across all groups where resin cement or glass ionomer cement were used in different thicknesses and where amalgam restorations were used with different Young’s modulus values. The least stress accumulation was observed in the cement itself. Conclusions: According to the results obtained, there was no difference between the two cement types in terms of stress accumulations in the models. However, when the same cements with different thicknesses were evaluated, it was concluded that the presence of both glass ionomer and resin cement with a thickness of 150 μm causes less stress on the restoration surface. Furthermore, when the cements were combined with different thicknesses and with different amalgam Young’ s modulus values, it was concluded that 50 GPa causes less stress on restoration surface.
Privacy-Enhanced AKMA for Multi-Access Edge Computing Mobility
Authors: Akman Gizem , Ginzboorg Philip , Damir Mohamed Taoufiq , Niemi Valtteri
Published: December 2022

Multi-access edge computing (MEC) is an emerging technology of 5G that brings cloud computing benefits closer to the user. The current specifications of MEC describe the connectivity of mobile users and the MEC host, but they have issues with application-level security and privacy. We consider how to provide secure and privacy-preserving communication channels between a mobile user and a MEC application in the non-roaming case. It includes protocols for registration of the user to the main server of the MEC application, renewal of the shared key, and usage of the MEC application in the MEC host when the user is stationary or mobile. For these protocols, we designed a privacy-enhanced version of the 5G authentication and key management for applications (AKMA) service. We formally verified the current specification of AKMA using ProVerif and found a new spoofing attack as well as other security and privacy vulnerabilities. Then we propose a fix against the spoofing attack. The privacy-enhanced AKMA is designed considering these shortcomings. We formally verified the privacy-enhanced AKMA and adapted it to our solution.
A Tetranuclear Ni(II)-Cubane Cluster Molecule Build by Four µ3-O-Methanolate (MeO) Ligands, Externally Cohesive by Four Unprecedented Bridging µ2-N7,O6-Acyclovirate (acv-H) Anions
Authors: Belmont-Sánchez Jeannette Carolina , Choquesillo-Lazarte Duane , Navarrete-Casas Ricardo , Frontera Antonio , Castiñeiras Alfonso , Niclós-Gutiérrez Juan , Matilla-Hernández Antonio
Published: December 2022

Metal ion interactions with nuclei acids and their constituents represent a multi-faceted and growing research field. This contribution deals with molecular recognition between synthetic purine 17 nucleosides and first-row transition metal complexes, with O- and/or N-amino chelators which are able to 18 engage in intra-molecular N-H···(N or O) and O-H···(N or O) interligand interactions. Crystals of these complexes can also display inter-molecular aromatic π-stacking and/or other non-conventional interactions. In this manuscript, we used 2-(2-aminoethoxy)ethanol (2aee) as a potential N,O(e),O(ol)-chelator for nickel(II). However, unexpectedly, the reaction between NiCl2, acyclovir (acv), and 2aee in methanol afforded parallelepiped apple-green crystals of [Ni(acv-H)(MeO)(H2O)]4·8H2O, (1) a tetranuclear molecule with an equimolar Ni(II):µ3-methanolate(1-):µ2-N7,O6-acyclovirate(1-) (acv-H) ratio. The µ2-N7,O6-(acv-H) metal-binding pattern (MBP) is unprecedented in terms of both its anionic and bridging roles. The single-crystal X-ray diffraction structure as well as thermogravimetric analysis and the (FT-IR +Vis-UV) spectra of 1 are reported. Theoretical density functional theory (DFT) calculations are used to analyse the antiparallel π-stacking interactions that govern the formation of self-assembled dimers in the solid state.
Seagrasses of West Africa: New Discoveries, Distribution Limits and Prospects for Management
Authors: Sidi Cheikh Mohamed Ahmed , Bandeira Salomão , Soumah Seydouba , Diouf Gnilane , Diouf Elisabeth Mayé , Sanneh Omar , Cardoso Noelo , Kujabie Abubacarr , Ndure Melissa , John Lynette , Moreira Lisdália , Radwan Zofia , Santos Iderlindo , Ceesay Adam , Vinaccia Marco , Potouroglou Maria
Published: December 2022

The onset of a major seagrass initiative in West Africa enabled important seagrass discoveries in several countries, in one of the least documented seagrass regions in the world. Four seagrass species occur in western Africa, Cymodocea nodosa, Halodule wrightii, Ruppia maritima and Zostera noltei. An area of about 62,108 ha of seagrasses was documented in the studied region comprising seven countries: Mauritania, Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Cabo Verde. Extensive meadows of Zostera noltei were recorded for the first time at Saloum Delta, Senegal, which represents the new southernmost distribution limit of this species. This paper also describes the seagrass morphology for some study areas and explores the main stressors to seagrasses as well as conservation initiatives to protect these newly documented meadows in West Africa. The produced information and maps serve as a starting point for researchers and managers to monitor temporal and spatial changes in the meadows’ extent, health and condition as an efficient management tool.
The Evolution of Collembola Higher Taxa (Arthropoda, Hexapoda) Based on Mitogenome Data
Authors: Bellini Bruno Cavalcante , Zhang Feng , de Souza Paolla Gabryelle Cavalcante , dos Santos-Costa Renata Clicia , Medeiros Gleyce da Silva , Godeiro Nerivânia Nunes
Published: December 2022

Mitogenomes represent useful tools for investigating the phylogeny of many metazoan clades. Regarding Collembola, the use of mitogenomics has already shown promising results, but few published works include sufficient taxon sampling to study its evolution and systematics on a broader scale. Here, we present a phylogenetic study based on the mitogenomes of 124 species from 24 subfamilies, 16 families, and four orders—one of the most comprehensive datasets used in a molecular study of Collembola evolution to date—and compare our results with the trees from recently published papers and traditional systematic hypotheses. Our main analysis supported the validity of the four orders and the clustering of Poduromorpha with Entomobryomorpha (the traditional Arthropleona). Our data also supported the split of Symphypleona s. str. into the Appendiciphora and Sminthuridida suborders, and the division of the Neelipleona into two subfamilies: Neelinae and Neelidinae subfam. nov. On the other hand, the traditional Symphypleona s. lat., Isotomoidea, and all the Isotomidae subfamilies were refuted by our analyses, indicating a need for a systematic revision of the latter family. Though our results are endorsed by many traditional and recent systematic findings, we highlight a need for additional mitogenomic data for some key taxa and the inclusion of nuclear markers to resolve some residual problematic relationships.
Fungi Present in the Organic and Mineral Layers of Six Broad-Leaved Tree Plantations as Assessed by the Plate Dilution Method
Authors: Maršalkienė Nijolė , Nikolajeva Vizma , Seņkovs Māris , Česonienė Laima
Published: December 2022

This study examined the distribution of culturable fungi and predominant genera in the organic layer and in the upper layers of the mineral soil of six broad-leaved tree plantations in autumn, after the full fall of leaves. In total, 1335 fungal isolates were recovered from an organic layer and two mineral layers (0–4 cm and 5–8 cm) of soil. The structure of fungal genera differed in the tree plantations and in the three studied soil layers. The organic layer was the layer most populated by fungi compared to the mineral layers. In the organic layer, Penicillium and phyllosphere fungi such as Cladosporium and Phoma dominated. Deeper in the soil, the dominance of certain genera decreased with the increase in Trichoderma, Mucor, Mortierella, and entomopathogenic fungi such as Paecilomyces and Beauveria. Penicillium was one of the most abundant fungi in all soil layers studied.
Correction: Mo et al. Land Use, Microorganisms, and Soil Organic Carbon: Putting the Pieces Together. Diversity 2022, 14, 638
Authors: Mo Lingzi , Zanella Augusto , Bolzonella Cristian , Squartini Andrea , Xu Guo-Liang , Banas Damien , Rosatti Mauro , Longo Enrico , Pindo Massimo , Concheri Giuseppe , Fritz Ines , Ranzani Giulia , Bellonzi Marco , Campagnolo Marco , Casarotto Daniele , Longo Michele , Linnyk Vitalyi , Ihlein Lucas , Yeomans Allan James
Published: December 2022

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Immersive Place-Based Attachments in Rural Australia: An Overview of an Allied Health Program and Its Outcomes
Authors: Brown Leanne J. , Wakely Luke , Little Alexandra , Heaney Susan , Cooper Emma , Wakely Katrina , May Jennifer , Burrows Julie M.
Published: December 2022

This paper describes a rural immersive attachment program for allied health students at an Australian University Department of Rural Health and its workforce outcomes. A mixed methods longitudinal cohort study, with data collected via end-of-placement and post-graduation surveys. Over 13 years, 311 allied health ‘year-long’ immersive rural attachments, as well as short-term placements, were supported. Pre- and post-placement rural practice intention ratings were paired (from 572 end of placement surveys) for 553 (96.7%) students. Students from metropolitan (49.4%, n = 273, p < 0.001), and rural origin (50.6%, n = 280, p < 0.001) showed a significant increase in rural practice intention. At 1 year post-graduation, 40.3% (n = 145) of graduates had worked in a rural or remote location in Australia, 39.9% at 3 years (n = 87) and 36.5% (n = 42) at 5 years. Longer-term rural attachments were found to be associated with rural practice location, independent of rural background. Those who had undertaken a longer rural attachment (≥18-weeks) were twice as likely to be working in a rural or remote area than those <18 weeks at 1 year (OR 2.018 95% CI 1.204–3.382) and 2.7 times as likely at 3 years (OR 2.727, 95% CI (1.325–5.614). Supporting students to undertake rural immersive attachments appears to be associated with greater rural practice intention and later rural practice.
Contextualized Mathematical Problems: Perspective of Teachers about Problem Posing
Authors: Chavarría-Arroyo Gilberto , Albanese Veronica
Published: December 2022

This research describes the perspective of secondary school teachers on the selection, elaboration, and implementation of contextualized mathematical problems in secondary education in Costa Rica. An exploratory and descriptive quantitative study is carried out, applying a questionnaire to 67 in-service secondary school mathematics teachers. The dimensions of the sources used by teachers, the difficulties encountered and the learners’ background considered for problem selection and elaboration are analyzed. In addition, the contexts present in the problems that teachers propose are classified. The results indicate that teachers use textbooks for the selection of mathematical problems. In addition, they give a favorable opinion regarding the use of realistic contexts in the creation of new problems. However, several of the proposed problems present fictitious or mathematical contexts. The highest percentage of the participants points out the need for training for the elaboration of contextualized mathematical problems.
The Use of the MQTT Protocol in Measurement, Monitoring and Control Systems as Part of the Implementation of Energy Management Systems
Authors: Manowska Anna , Wycisk Artur , Nowrot Andrzej , Pielot Joachim
Published: December 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) market is currently one of the most dynamically developing branches of technology. The increase in the number of devices and their capabilities make them present in every area of life—from construction to medicine. Due to flourishing industrial automation and wireless connectivity, all devices in buildings can be networked, which significantly improves comfort, energy efficiency, and thus significantly affects the promotion of the idea of sustainable development. This article proposes to build a system to monitor an energy management system by collecting information about temperature, humidity and pressure. The concept of the system is based on the Message Queue Telemetry Transport (MQTT) communication protocol, a wireless network, an ESP8266 microcontroller and a BME280 sensor. Sensors and actuators are connected to the ESP8266, and a Mosquitto-based MQTT broker is placed on the RPi and set up for remote monitoring and control. An innovative approach to the use of database systems dedicated to time series on the example of InfluxDB and data visualization in the Grafana environment was also presented. The proposed system was built in laboratory conditions in 2022 and used to monitor and control energy consumption in real time, depending on Polish weather conditions.
Block Caving Mining Method: Transformation and Its Potency in Indonesia
Authors: Melati Sari , Wattimena Ridho Kresna , Sahara David Prambudi , Syafrizal  , Simangunsong Ganda Marihot , Hidayat Wahyu , Riyanto Erwin , Felisia Raden Roro Shinta
Published: December 2022

The block caving mining method has become increasingly popular in the last two decades. Meanwhile, Indonesia has several potential ore bodies which have not yet determined suitable mining methods. The references to block caving mining projects worldwide and the potency of metal deposits in Indonesia were reviewed to determine the requirements of ore bodies suitable for mining using the transformed block caving method. This method can be applied on a blocky ore body with a thickness of 200–800 m, various rock mass strengths until 300 MPa, from low to high (from 0.3% Cu until more than 1.0% Cu), but of uniform grade and at a depth from 500 to 2200 m. The technical specifications for running block caving mines have been synthesized, including preparation methods, undercutting strategy, mine design, mining equipment and monitoring. Considering the requirements and the successful practice of the block caving project in the Grasberg Caving Complex as a role model, the Indonesian government should concentrate on the detailed exploration of porphyry deposits and feasibility studies on applying the method to the prospective ore bodies, i.e., Onto, Tambulilato, Tumpangpitu and Randu Kuning. In addition, the exploration method, cost, operation, environment, mining policy and social geology are important aspects worth noting.
Zero Waste as a Determinant of Shaping Green Economy Processes on the Example of Communes of Eastern Poland in 2010–2020
Authors: Dziekański Paweł , Wyszkowski Adam , Prus Piotr , Pawlik Andrzej , Maitah Mansoor , Wrońska Magdalena
Published: December 2022

The green economy is a form of economic progress. It promotes environmentally sustainable, low-carbon, and inclusive development. It ensures environmental sustainability and preserves the conditions for social progress. The current model of resource management is not sustainable and puts pressure on the environment. The proposed steps toward a green economy are intended to benefit both the environment, the economy, and society. The aim of the study was to assess the spatial differentiation of the relationship between the green economy and the zero waste concept of Eastern Poland’s municipalities. The assessment was performed using a synthetic measure. The choice of variables was determined by the availability of data in the Bank of Local Data of the Central Statistical Office (BDL GUS) for the years 2010–2020 in spatial terms (709) municipalities of Eastern Poland. The synthetic measure of green economy ranged from 0.28 to 0.56 in 2010 and from 0.28 to 0.59 in 2020; and for the waste management measure, from 0.19 to 0.55 in 2010 and 0.32 to 0.53 in 2020. Spatially, the essence of the green economy or zero waste stems from the desire to reduce the burden on the environment by creating attractive conditions for living and business activities. The development of the green economy is to shape the aspect of the environment, while ensuring economic security and quality of life.
Machine Intelligence in Smart Buildings
Authors: Dounis Anastasios I.
Published: December 2022

Energy efficiency is a key concern in achieving sustainability in modern society [...]
Exploring Cyber-Physical Energy and Power System: Concepts, Applications, Challenges, and Simulation Approaches
Authors: Pham Le Nam Hai
Published: December 2022

With the advancement of data-acquisition systems, information technology, and network technologies, the energy and power system has entered the deep integration of the cyber and physical sides as known as cyber-physical energy and power system (CPEPS) leading to more attention from researchers and practitioners in industry. The feedback loops in which physical processes affect cyber parts and vice versa, therefore, can gain greater efficiency, resilience, and intelligence through the data exchange process between two layers. The concept of CPEPS has been existed for a long time and its applications are gradually increasing in the real world, however, there has been still many potential risks and challenges in the research and development process. Simulation method is a common and simple approach for the purpose of analyzing, evaluating, and considering solutions before actual implementation. For this purpose, this paper provides first the framework of CPEPS, and current applications and challenges that researchers are facing. Then, the next section is the overview of simulation methods with different software and tools in CPEPS research in order to provide researchers with an optimal approach to the ongoing and further research towards the transition of digitalization on energy and power system.
Heat Recovery from a Wastewater Treatment Process—Case Study
Authors: Łokietek Tomasz , Tuchowski Wojciech , Leciej-Pirczewska Dorota , Głowacka Anna
Published: December 2022

This article presents the potential of heat recovery from wastewater with an example of a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Mokrawica, which is located in the West Pomeranian region of Poland. A thorough literature review discusses the relevance of the topic and shows examples of heat recovery conducted with heat pumps. Raw and treated wastewater are mostly used as heat sources, with the latter achieving higher thermal capacities. Heat recovery from a biological treatment process is rarely implemented and requires more detailed studies on this subject. The proposed methodology for estimating possible heat recovered from wastewater, requiring heating and cooling capacities, as well as the coefficient of performance (COP) of a heat pump, is based on only three parameters: wastewater volumetric flow, wastewater temperature, and the required temperature for heating or air-conditioning. The heat recovery potential was determined for different parts of WWTP processes, i.e., the sand box, aeration chamber, secondary sedimentation tank, and treated sewage disposal. The average values of 309–451 kW and a minimum of 58–68 kW in winter were determined. The results also indicate that, depending on the location of the heat recovery, it is possible to obtain from wastewater between 57.9 kW and 93.8 kW of heat or transfer to wastewater from 185.9 to 228.2 kW. To improve biological treatment processes in the winter season, wastewater should be preheated with a minimum of 349–356 kW that can be recovered from the treated wastewater. The heat transferred to the wastewater from the air-conditioning system amounts to 138–141 kW. By comparing the required cooling and heating capacities with the available resources, it is possible to fully recover or transfer the heat for central heating, hot water, and air conditioning of the building. Partial preheating of wastewater during the treatment process requires further analysis.
Life Cycle Impacts of Recycling of Black Mass Obtained from End-of-Life Zn-C and Alkaline Batteries Using Waelz Kiln
Authors: Klejnowska Katarzyna , Sydow Mateusz , Michalski Rafał , Bogacka Magdalena
Published: December 2022

The utilization of end-of-life batteries (including Zn-C and alkaline batteries) is one of the areas that need to be perfected in order to provide environmental and human safety as well as to contribute to closing the material loop, as described in the EU Green Deal. The presented study shows the environmental impacts of the two selected pyrometallurgical technologies (processing of the black mass from waste Zn-C and alkaline batteries as an additive to an existing process of the recycling of steelmaking dust and treatment of the black mass as the primary waste material, both processes performed in a Waelz kiln). The presented LCA-based study of the recycling of end-of-life Zn-C and alkaline batteries focused on terrestrial ecotoxicity can be a useful tool in the process of the development of a circular economy in Europe, as it provides a multi-disciplinary overview of the most important environmental loads associated with the described recycling technologies. Therefore, the goal of the presented study was to compare the environmental performance (utilizing LCA) of two different metallurgical processes of black mass utilization, i.e., the conventional method utilizing black mass as a co-substrate and the newly developed method utilizing black mass as a primary substrate.
Condition Assessment of Power Transformers through DGA Measurements Evaluation Using Adaptive Algorithms and Deep Learning
Authors: Barkas Dimitris A. , Kaminaris Stavros D. , Kalkanis Konstantinos K. , Ioannidis George Ch. , Psomopoulos Constantinos S.
Published: December 2022

Condition assessment for critical infrastructure is a key factor for the wellbeing of the modern human. Especially for the electricity network, specific components such as oil-immersed power transformers need to be monitored for their operating condition. Classic approaches for the condition assessment of oil-immersed power transformers have been proposed in the past, such as the dissolved gases analysis and their respective concentration measurements for insulating oils. However, these approaches cannot always correctly (and in many cases not at all) classify the problems in power transformers. In the last two decades, novel approaches are implemented so as to address this problem, including artificial intelligence with neural networks being one form of algorithm. This paper focuses on the implementation of an adaptive number of layers and neural networks, aiming to increase the accuracy of the operating condition of oil-immersed power transformers. This paper also compares the use of various activation functions and different transfer functions other than the neural network implemented. The comparison incorporates the accuracy and total structure size of the neural network.
An Ensemble Deep-Learning-Based Model for Hour-Ahead Load Forecasting with a Feature Selection Approach: A Comparative Study with State-of-the-Art Methods
Authors: Yaprakdal Fatma
Published: December 2022

The realization of load forecasting studies within the scope of forecasting periods varies depending on the application areas and estimation purposes. It is mainly carried out at three intervals: short-term, medium-term, and long-term. Short-term load forecasting (STLF) incorporates hour-ahead load forecasting, which is critical for dynamic data-driven smart power system applications. Nevertheless, based on our knowledge, there are not enough academic studies prepared with particular emphasis on this sub-topic, and none of the related studies evaluate STLF forecasting methods in this regard. As such, machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) architectures and forecasters have recently been successfully applied to STLF, and are state-of-the-art techniques in the energy forecasting area. Here, hour-ahead load forecasting methods, the majority of which are frequently preferred high-performing up-to-date methods in the literature, were first examined based on different forecasting techniques using two different aggregated-level datasets and observing the effects of these methods on both. Case and comparison studies have been conducted on these high-performing methods before, but there are not many examples studied using data from two different structures. Although the data used in this study were different from each other in terms of the time step, they also had very different and varied features. In addition, feature selection was studied on both datasets and a backward-eliminated exhaustive approach based on the performance of the artificial neural network (ANN) on the validation set was proposed for the development study of the forecasting models. A new DL-based ensemble approach was proposed after examining the results obtained on two separate datasets by applying the feature selection approach to the working forecasting methods, and the numerical results illustrate that it can significantly improve the forecasting performance compared with these up-to-date methods.
Study on Shear Velocity Profile Inversion Using an Improved High Frequency Constrained Algorithm
Authors: Ye Qing , Sun Huafeng , Jin Zhiqiang , Wang Bing
Published: December 2022

The formation shear-wave (S-wave)’s velocity information around a borehole is of great importance in evaluating borehole stability, reflecting fluid invasion, and selecting perforation positions. Dipole acoustic logging is an effective method for determining a formation S-wave’s velocity radial profile around the borehole. Currently, the formation S-wave’s radial-profile inversion methods are mainly based on the impacts of radial velocity changes of formations outside the borehole on the dispersion characteristics of dipole waveforms, without considering the impacts of an acoustic tool on the dispersion curves in the inversion methods. Accordingly, the inversion accuracy is greatly impacted in practical data-processing applications. In this paper, a novel inversion algorithm, which introduces equivalent-tool theory into the shear-velocity radial profile constrained-inversion method, is proposed to obtain the S-wave’s slowness radial profile. Based on the equivalent-tool theory, the acoustic tool can be modeled using two parameters, radius and elastic modulus. The tool’s impact on the dipole waveform’s dispersion is eliminated first by using the equivalent-tool theory. Then, the corrected dispersion curve is used to carry out the constrained inversion processing. The results of this processing on the simulation data and the real logging data show the validity of the proposed algorithm.
Development of a Numerical Method for Calculating a Gas Supply System during a Period of Change in Thermal Loads
Authors: Fetisov Vadim , Shalygin Aleksey V. , Modestova Svetlana A. , Tyan Vladimir K. , Shao Changjin
Published: December 2022

Nowadays, modern gas supply systems are complex. They consist of gas distribution stations; high-, medium-, and low-pressure gas networks; gas installations; and control points. These systems are designed to provide natural gas to the population, including domestic, industrial, and agricultural consumers. This study is aimed at developing methods for improving the calculation of gas distribution networks. The gas supply system should ensure an uninterrupted and safe gas supply to consumers that is easy to operate and provides the possibility of shutting down its individual elements for preventive, repair, and emergency recovery work. Therefore, this study presents a mathematical calculation method to find the optimal operating conditions for any gas network during the period of seasonal changes in thermal loads. This method demonstrates how the reliability of gas distribution systems and resistance to non-standard critical loads are affected by consumers based on the time of year, month, and day, and external factors such as outdoor temperature. The results in this study show that this method will enable the implementation of tools for testing various management strategies for the gas distribution network.
Analysis of Nutrients and Volatile Compounds in Cherry Tomatoes Stored at Different Temperatures
Authors: Wang Dan , Wang Yujiao , Lv Zhenzhen , Pan Zhiming , Wei Yunlu , Shu Chang , Zeng Qingxiao , Chen Yinnan , Zhang Wen
Published: December 2022

Monitoring of the quality change of cherry tomatoes during storage is very important for the quality control of cherry tomatoes. In this study, the soluble solids content (SSC), reducing sugars (RSs), titratable acids (TAs), ascorbic acid (AA) and lycopene of cherry tomatoes during storage at 0, 4, 10 or 25 °C were measured, and the kinetic models were established. The results showed that the zero-order reaction combined with the Arrhenius kinetic model could be used for the prediction of changes in SS, RS and AA content. The first-order reaction combined with the Arrhenius kinetic model could be used for the prediction of changes in the TA and lycopene content. The volatile compounds of cherry tomatoes were simultaneously determined by the gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and electronic nose (E-nose). A total of 104 volatile compounds were identified by GC–MS. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) showed that there were 13 different metabolites among cherry tomatoes with different freshness. The accuracies of Fisher’s models based on E-nose for discriminating freshness of cherry tomatoes stored at 0, 4, 10 and 25 °C were 96%, 100%, 92% and 90%, respectively. This study provides a theoretical basis for the quality control of cherry tomatoes during storage.
Effect of Variety and Maturity Index on the Physicochemical Parameters Related to Virgin Olive Oil from Wudu (China)
Authors: Tang Fengxia , Li Chuan , Yang Xiaoran , Lei Jiandu , Chen Hongxia , Zhang Changwei , Wang Chengzhang
Published: December 2022

Physical parameters (i.e., extraction yield, oil content), chemicals (i.e., fatty acids, phenolics) and oxidative stability associated with virgin olive oil (VOO) from ten varieties in Wudu, China, were analyzed as a function of maturity index and variety by multivariate analysis models. Most of the analytical parameters were significantly affected by the variety and maturity index, and the former was more influential than the latter. Phenolics were the principal factor dividing the ten varieties into four groups. High phenolic levels were observed in the ‘Koroneiki’ group and ‘Manzanilla’ group, but the oil extractability index differentiated between them, being the highest and lowest, respectively. The ‘Koroneiki’ group demonstrated high oil productivity and oil quality, which was worthy of promotion in large-scale cultivation. High amounts of linoleic enhanced the VOO health benefits of ‘Ascolana tenera, Arbequina and Zhongshan24’ group, but brought the risk of shortening the shelf-life. The ‘Ulliri Bardhe, Empeltre, Ezhi8, Yuntai14 and Picual’ group clustered for the higher relative value of oleic acid. The maturity index had significant negative effects on the content of total phenolics, oleacein, oleocanthal, and oleic acid, but had a positive effect on the extractability index, which suggested that varieties with low phenolics and oleic acid levels should be harvested early.
Biscuits Enriched with Monofloral Bee Pollens: Nutritional Properties, Techno-Functional Parameters, Sensory Profile, and Consumer Preference
Authors: Végh Rita , Csóka Mariann , Stefanovits-Bányai Éva , Juhász Réka , Sipos László
Published: December 2022

Bee pollens are potential functional food ingredients as they contain essential nutrients and a wide range of bioactive compounds. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of enrichment with monofloral bee pollens on the nutritional properties, techno-functional parameters, sensory profile, and consumer preference of biscuits. Biscuits were prepared according to the AACC-approved method by substituting wheat flour with pollens of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.), phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia Benth.) and sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) at 2%, 5% and 10% levels. The macronutrient composition of the biscuits was determined: crude protein content (Kjeldahl method), crude fat content (Soxhlet extraction), ash content (carbonization), moisture content (drying), carbohydrate content (formula). Their total phenolic content (TPC) and in vitro antioxidant capacity (FRAP, TEAC, DPPH) were determined spectrophotometrically. The colour of the biscuits was measured using a tristimulus-based instrument, and their texture was characterized by using a texture analyser. Sensory profile of biscuits was determined by qualitative descriptive analysis (QDA). The consumer acceptance and purchase intention of the biscuits were also evaluated, based on the responses of 100 consumers. Additionally, an external preference map was created to illustrate the relationship between consumer preference and the sensory profile of the biscuits, and penalty analysis was conducted to identify directions for product development. Phacelia pollen appeared to be the most effective for improving the nutritional quality of biscuits. The addition of phacelia pollen at the 10% substitution level increased the protein content and TPC of the control biscuit by 21% and 145%, respectively. Significant changes (p < 0.05) were also observed regarding the colour and texture of biscuits. The results of the QDA revealed that biscuits containing pollens of different botanical sources have heterogeneous sensory attributes. The biscuit containing sunflower pollen at the 2% substitution level was preferred the most (overall liking = 6.9 ± 1.6), and purchase intentions were also the highest for this product. Based on the results of the present study, it is recommended to use sunflower pollen for developing pollen-enriched foods in the future.