bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of the physical characteristics of the French women's rugby players: A 10-year longitudinal analysis by position and team
Authors: Imbert Sébastien , Piscione Julien , Couderc Anthony , Joncheray Hélène , Daussin Frédéric N.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The study aimed to interpret the evolution of the physical performance of rugby sevens and rugby union French international players from 2009 to 2020.

Methods

631 players from the French national teams were divided into three groups: forwards, backs and sevens. The performances evaluated were anthropometric characteristics, strength tests (1 RM bench press and 1 RM pull-up), aerobic capacity (YoYo IR1 test) and speed tests (10 m, 20 m and 50 m). The best performance of each player over a two-year period was kept for the analysis. Fluctuations were observed across the decade.

Results

The anthropometric characteristics of female rugby sevens players tend to be taller and lighter than rugby union players. In rugby sevens, a moderate increase in maximal aerobic capacity was observed while sprint performances remained similar. Improvements in height and weight were observed over the last 10 years in rugby union players with a difference between the position. A moderate increase in sprinting performances and strength were observed both in backs and forwards.

Discussion

The overall improvement of strength and conditioning performances and anthropometrical evolution reflects the rugby environment characterized by the arrival of professional contracts and the structuration process of the clubs which allows a better quality of training and easier access to the infrastructures of the very high level.
Development and Validation of a Model Based on Vegetation Indices for the Prediction of Sugarcane Yield
Authors: Vasconcelos Julio Cezar Souza , Speranza Eduardo Antonio , Antunes João Francisco Gonçalves , Barbosa Luiz Antonio Falaguasta , Christofoletti Daniel , Severino Francisco José , de Almeida Cançado Geraldo Magela
Published: April 2023

Currently, Brazil is the leading producer of sugarcane in the world, with self-sufficiency in the use of ethanol as a biofuel, as well as being one of the largest suppliers of sugar to the world. This study aimed to develop a predictive model for sugarcane production based on data extracted from aerial imagery obtained from drones or satellites, allowing the precise tracking of plant development in the field. A model based on a semiparametric approach associated with the inverse Gaussian distribution applied to vegetation indices (VIs), such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Visible Atmospherically Resistant Index (VARI), was developed with data from drone images obtained from two field experiments with randomized replications and four sugarcane varieties. These experiments were performed under conditions identical to those applied by sugarcane farmers. Further, the model validation was carried out by scaling up the analyses with data extracted from Sentinel-2 images of several commercial sugarcane fields. Very often, in countries such as Brazil, sugarcane crops occupy extensive areas. Consequently, the development of tools capable of being operated remotely automatically benefits the management of this crop in the field by avoiding laborious and time-consuming sampling and by promoting the reduction of operation costs. The results of the model application in both sources of data, i.e., data from field experiments as well as the data from commercial fields, showed a suitable level of overlap between the data of predicted yield using VIs generated from drone and satellite images with the data of verified yield obtained by measuring the production of experiments and commercial fields, indicating that the model is reliable for forecasting productivity months before the harvest time.
Gemella sanguinis Infective Endocarditis—Challenging Management of an 8-Year-Old with Duchenne Dystrophy and Undiagnosed Congenital Heart Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Filip Cristina , Vasile Corina Maria , Nicolae Georgiana , Margarint Irina , Popa Loredana , Bizubac Mihaela , Ganea Gabriela , Rusu Mihaela , Murzi Bruno , Balgradean Mihaela , Cirstoveanu Catalin
Published: April 2023

Congenital heart disease (CHD) remains a predisposing cardiac condition for infective endocarditis (IE). Case report: We present the case of 8-year-old boy with no known pre-existing cardiac disease diagnosed with infective endocarditis (IE) with Gemella sanguinis. After admission, he underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), which revealed the presence of Shone syndrome with a bicuspid valve, mitral parachute valve and severe aortic coarctation. He developed a paravalvular aortic abscess with severe aortic regurgitation and left ventricle (LV) systolic dysfunction for which he required a complex surgical intervention after six weeks of antibiotic treatment, consisting of Ross operation and coarctectomy, with a complicated postoperative course, cardiac arrest and ECMO support for five days. The evolution was slow and favorable, with no significant residual valvular lesions. However, persistent LV systolic dysfunction and increased muscle enzymes required further investigation to establish a genetic diagnosis of Duchenne disease. As Gemella is not considered a frequent pathogen of IE, no current guidelines refer specifically to it. Additionally, the predisposing cardiac condition of our patient is not currently classified as “high-risk” for IE; this is not considered an indication for IE prophylaxis in the current guidelines. Conclusion: This case illustrates the importance of accurate bacteriological diagnosis in infective endocarditis and poses concerns regarding the necessity of IE prophylaxis in “moderate risk” cardiac conditions such as congenital valvular heart disease, especially aortic valve malformations.
Development, Optimization, and In Vitro/In Vivo Evaluation of Azelaic Acid Transethosomal Gel for Antidermatophyte Activity
Authors: Nasr Ali M. , Badawi Noha M. , Tartor Yasmine H. , Sobhy Nader M. , Swidan Shady A.
Published: April 2023

Treatment of dermatophytosis is quite challenging. This work aims to investigate the antidermatophyte action of Azelaic acid (AzA) and evaluate its efficacy upon entrapment into transethosomes (TEs) and incorporation into a gel to enhance its application. Optimization of formulation variables of TEs was carried out after preparation using the thin film hydration technique. The antidermatophyte activity of AzA-TEs was first evaluated in vitro. In addition, two guinea pig infection models with Trichophyton (T.) mentagrophytes and Microsporum (M.) canis were established for the in vivo assessment. The optimized formula showed a mean particle size of 219.8 ± 4.7 nm and a zeta potential of −36.5 ± 0.73 mV, while the entrapment efficiency value was 81.9 ± 1.4%. Moreover, the ex vivo permeation study showed enhanced skin penetration for the AzA-TEs (3056 µg/cm2) compared to the free AzA (590 µg/cm2) after 48 h. AzA-TEs induced a greater inhibition in vitro on the tested dermatophyte species than free AzA (MIC90 was 0.01% vs. 0.32% for T. rubrum and 0.032% for T. mentagrophytes and M. canis vs. 0.56%). The mycological cure rate was improved in all treated groups, specially for our optimized AzA-TEs formula in the T. mentagrophytes model, in which it reached 83% in this treated group, while it was 66.76% in the itraconazole and free AzA treated groups. Significant (p < 0.05) lower scores of erythema, scales, and alopecia were observed in the treated groups in comparison with the untreated control and plain groups. In essence, the TEs could be a promising carrier for AzA delivery into deeper skin layers with enhanced antidermatophyte activity.
Effectiveness of Video Modeling in Improving Technical Skills in Young Novice Basketball Players: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Tannoubi Amayra , Ouergui Ibrahim , Srem-Sai Medina , Hagan John Elvis , Quansah Frank , Azaiez Fairouz
Published: April 2023

(1) Objective: This is a quasi-experimental study that investigated the effect of four weeks of training sessions using video modeling (VM) on individual and collective technical skills in young novice basketball players. (2) Method: 20 players were equally assigned to either a control group (CG, n = 10; 12 ± 0.7 years) or a video modeling group (VMG, n = 10; 12.5 ± 0.5 years; visualizing videos before each session) were assessed before and after the four-week training period using the Basketball Skill Test of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance for individual techniques and three vs. three small-sided games for collective aspects. (3) Results: For the passing test, VMG induced higher performance than CG (p = 0.021; d = 0.87). For offensive balls post-intervention, higher values were recorded for VMG compared to CG (p = 0.003; d = 1.81). In addition, the number of attack balls index post-intervention was higher for VMG compared to CG (p = 0.001; d = 0.28). For losing the ball, VMG induced lower values than CG after the training intervention (p < 0.001; d = −3.23). The efficiency index was higher post-training compared to pre-training for VMG (p = 0.013; d = 1.24). (4) Conclusion: The study highlighted the importance of using video modeling as an effective strategy to improve technical skills and collective performance in novice young basketball players.
Effects of Message Framing and Information Source on Consumers’ Attitudes toward an Amino Acid-Based Alternative Meat Curing System
Authors: Chambers Amber Vonona , Baker Mathew T. , Leggette Holli R. , Osburn Wesley N. , Lu Peng
Published: April 2023

Recently, meat scientists have developed an innovative amino acid-based alternative meat curing system (AAACS). However, consumer skepticism toward novel foods presents challenges regarding the acceptance of food innovations like the AAACS. Effective communication about this and other food technologies is critical. Our study was a 2 × 4 randomized factorial between-groups experiment that investigated how two peripheral cues—message frame and information source—impact attitudes toward the AAACS. We used Qualtrics to randomly assign participants to one of eight treatment groups. Each group viewed a different video about the AAACS. Then, all participants were asked about their attitudes toward the alternative meat curing system. Data were analyzed using a two-way multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). The two-way MANOVA determined concurrently the experimental effects of message frame and information source on information recall, trust, source expertise, source credibility, and anticipated consumption behavior. A significant MANOVA was followed up using Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA). A significant main effect was found for information source. The DFA revealed only one significant underlying function and that source expertise was the most powerful discriminating variable for information source.
Fear Effect on a Predator–Prey Model with Non-Differential Fractional Functional Response
Authors: Al-Mohanna Salam Mohammed Ghazi , Xia Yong-Hui
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we study the factor of the fear effect in a predator–prey model with prey refuge and a non-differentiable fractional functional response due to the group defense. Since the functional response is non-differentiable, the dynamics of this system are considerably different from the dynamics of a classical predator–prey system. The persistence, the stability and the existence of the steady states are investigated. We examine the Hopf bifurcation at the unique positive equilibrium. Direct Hopf bifurcation is studied via the central manifold theorem. When the value of the fear factor decreases and is less than a threshold κH, the limit cycle appears, and it disappears through a loop of heteroclinic orbits when the value of the fear factor is equal to a value κhet.
Association between Clinical Periodontal Features and Glycated Hemoglobin in Patients with Diabetes and Controlled Periodontitis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tooi Masayuki , Matsuda Yuhei , Zhong Hui , Arakawa Shinichi
Published: April 2023

Diabetes and periodontitis are the most prevalent chronic diseases, and they influence each other’s progression. Only a few studies have shown the association between diabetes and mild periodontitis. We aimed to investigate the relationship between well-controlled periodontitis and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in patients with diabetes. This retrospective study investigated 150 Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes treated with supportive periodontal therapy (SPT). Medical histories of diabetes and periodontal therapy were collected, and a multiple linear regression analysis was performed to determine their association. The patients included 67 (44.7%) males and 83 (55.3%) females, with a mean age of 68.1 (standard deviation = 10.5) years. Forty-four (29.3%) patients were treated for diabetes, and the mean HbA1c was 6.7% (0.7). Oral status was 23.3 (5.1) for the number of teeth, 2.5 mm (0.4) for mean probing pocket depth (PPD), and 163.9 mm2 (181.3) for the periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA). The multiple regression analysis showed a significant association between mean PPD (β = 0.38, p = 0.03) and HbA1c in patients with mild diabetes but not in severe cases. These results suggest that the diagnostic indices for periodontitis used to assess the association between periodontitis and HbA1c would be determined based on the severity of periodontitis and type 2 diabetes.
Cross-Cultural Validity of a Dietary Questionnaire for Studying Dental Caries in Japanese Children
Authors: Nakai Yukie , Mori-Suzuki Yukako
Published: April 2023

This study examines the cross-cultural validity of the Japanese version of the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), designed for studies on dental caries to assess dietary intake in Japanese children. Parent-reported dietary data were collected (274 children, 3–6 years old) using the 38-item FFQ, whose reliability and validity have been demonstrated in adults. Factor analysis was used to determine dimensionality. Dietary cariogenicity scores were compared with the levels of plaque mutans streptococci, and the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) index to evaluate the criterion validity using Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) and the Kruskal–Wallis test. The FFQ showed good criterion validity, assessed through its relationship with the dmft index (r = 0.119; p = 0.05) and Dentocult SM score (r = 0.124; p = 0.04). Factor analysis revealed six questionnaire subscales. Internal consistency was from low to acceptable (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.64 for the total scale, 0.39–0.53 for each subscale). Children with a higher SM score were more likely to have higher dietary cariogenicity scores (p = 0.01; Kruskal–Wallis test). These results confirm the validity of the Japanese version of the FFQ for children, which can be used to track dietary structure dynamics regarding cariogenicity from childhood to adulthood.
Self-Reported Questionnaire to Evaluate Functional Abilities in Middle Age: A Call for Delphi Expert Panel
Authors: Hayek Roee , Saad Odelyah , Springer Shmuel
Published: April 2023

Early detection of functional decline is important for promoting optimal aging. Self-reported questionnaires can efficiently assess functional abilities. Therefore, we aimed to highlight the lack of functional ability assessment questionnaires for the middle-aged population (MA, 45–65 years) and the need to develop such a questionnaire. An online search was performed to find questionnaires quantifying self-reported performance and functional abilities at MA. We also conducted an online survey of a group of the MA population and interviewed individuals who reported age-related functional decline. Eight potentially relevant questionnaires were found, and one hundred and twenty-three individuals responded to our survey, five of whom were interviewed. None of the questionnaires were specifically designed to assess functional capacity at MA, and most of the questionnaires are likely to have a ceiling effect in assessing the MA population. Furthermore, the questionnaires do not capture functions related to dynamic balance, flexibility, and maximum strength, which are reported as difficult by our respondents, making them less appropriate for assessing function at MA. There is a need to engage a Delphi expert panel of several relevant healthcare professionals to develop a functional capacity assessment questionnaire for MA.
Appraisal and Evaluation of the Learning Environment Instruments of the Student Nurse: A Systematic Review Using COSMIN Methodology
Authors: Lommi Marzia , De Benedictis Anna , Ricci Simona , Guarente Luca , Latina Roberto , Covelli Giuliana , Pozzuoli Gianluca , De Maria Maddalena , Giovanniello Dominique , Rocco Gennaro , Stievano Alessandro , Sabatino Laura , Notarnicola Ippolito , Gualandi Raffaella , Tartaglini Daniela , Ivziku Dhurata
Published: April 2023

Background: Nursing education consists of theory and practice, and student nurses’ perception of the learning environment, both educational and clinical, is one of the elements that determines the success or failure of their university study path. This study aimed to identify the currently available tools for measuring the clinical and educational learning environments of student nurses and to evaluate their measurement properties in order to provide solid evidence for researchers, educators, and clinical tutors to use in the selection of tools. Methods: We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the psychometric properties of self-reported learning environment tools in accordance with the Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) Guidelines of 2018. The research was conducted on the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, APA PsycInfo, and ERIC. Results: In the literature, 14 instruments were found that evaluate both the traditional and simulated clinical learning environments and the educational learning environments of student nurses. These tools can be ideally divided into first-generation tools developed from different learning theories and second-generation tools developed by mixing, reviewing, and integrating different already-validated tools. Conclusion: Not all the relevant psychometric properties of the instruments were evaluated, and the methodological approaches used were often doubtful or inadequate, thus threatening the instruments’ external validity. Further research is needed to complete the validation processes undertaken for both new and already developed instruments, using higher-quality methods and evaluating all psychometric properties.
Impella Versus VA-ECMO for Patients with Cardiogenic Shock: Comprehensive Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analyses
Authors: Ardito Vittoria , Sarucanian Lilit , Rognoni Carla , Pieri Marina , Scandroglio Anna Mara , Tarricone Rosanna
Published: April 2023

Impella and VA-ECMO are two possible therapeutic courses for the treatment of patients with cardiogenic shock (CS). The study aims to perform a systematic literature review and meta-analyses of a comprehensive set of clinical and socio-economic outcomes observed when using Impella or VA-ECMO with patients under CS. A systematic literature review was performed in Medline, and Web of Science databases on 21 February 2022. Nonoverlapping studies with adult patients supported for CS with Impella or VA-ECMO were searched. Study designs including RCTs, observational studies, and economic evaluations were considered. Data on patient characteristics, type of support, and outcomes were extracted. Additionally, meta-analyses were performed on the most relevant and recurring outcomes, and results shown using forest plots. A total of 102 studies were included, 57% on Impella, 43% on VA-ECMO. The most common outcomes investigated were mortality/survival, duration of support, and bleeding. Ischemic stroke was lower in patients treated with Impella compared to the VA-ECMO population, with statistically significant difference. Socio-economic outcomes including quality of life or resource use were not reported in any study. The study highlighted areas where further data collection is needed to clarify the value of complex, new technologies in the treatment of CS that will enable comparative assessments focusing both on the health impact on patient outcomes and on the financial burden for government budgets. Future studies need to fill the gap to comply with recent regulatory updates at the European and national levels.
Drilling Parameters and Post-Drilling Residual Tensile Properties of Natural-Fiber-Reinforced Composites: A Review
Authors: Goutham Emani Ram Sai , Hussain Shaik Sajeed , Muthukumar Chandrasekar , Krishnasamy Senthilkumar , Kumar T. Senthil Muthu , Santulli Carlo , Palanisamy Sivasubramanian , Parameswaranpillai Jyotishkumar , Jesuarockiam Naveen
Published: April 2023

This review highlights the influence of parameters on the drilling characteristics of biocomposites including natural fibers. The particular structure of natural fibers, including their hierarchized geometry, which potentially causes fibrillation, can result in an increased chance of irregularity of the hole and a more complex mode of delamination or, in general terms, damage to the composite. On the other hand, to attain an effective junction of the laminates in a structure, a nut–bolt procedure must be selected, which requires the performance of a drilling operation. This is becoming increasingly important since the fields of application for natural fibers and their variety have been steadily growing in the last few decades. Additionally, adequately performed drilling operations can address considerations related to circular economy. The drilling characteristics evaluated herein include thrust force, torque, surface roughness, and the delamination factor at the entry and exit of the drilling tool. The variation in tensile strength, stiffness, and strain propagation due to the presence of open holes of various sizes, the number of holes, the holes’ patterns, the effect of the type of fiber of the notches, the fiber architecture, and the fibers’ stacking sequence in biocomposites have also been discussed.
Evaluation of Eco-Friendly Hemp-Fiber-Reinforced Recycled HDPE Composites
Authors: Xanthopoulou Eleftheria , Chrysafi Iouliana , Polychronidis Prodromos , Zamboulis Alexandra , Bikiaris Dimitrios N.
Published: April 2023

The exploitation of natural fibers to reinforce polymers is a promising practice. Thus, biocomposites have gained increased attention in automotive, construction, and agricultural sectors, among others. The present work reports the reinforcement of recycled high-density polyethylene (r-HDPE) with hemp fibers to afford composite materials as sustainable analogues to conventional wood/plastic composite (WPC) products. HDPE bottles (postconsumer waste) were used as r-HDPE and further reinforced by the addition of hemp fibers. For the synthetic part, thirteen composite materials with different filler concentrations (10–75% wt. in hemp fibers) using either Joncryl or polyethylene-grafted maleic anhydride (PE-g-MA) as compatibilizers were prepared via melt mixing. Materials with good integrity were obtained with a fiber load as high as 75% wt. The structural, thermal, mechanical, and antioxidant properties of the r-HDPE/hemp composites were evaluated using multiple complementary characterization techniques. Stereoscopic microscope images demonstrated the satisfactory dispersion of the hemp fibers into the polymeric matrix, while scanning electron microscopy microphotographs revealed an improved adhesion between the filler and the polymeric matrix in the presence of compatibilizers. The incorporation of hemp fibers contributed to the improvement of the elastic modulus of the composites (almost up to threefold increase). The results showed that as the hemp fiber content increased, the antioxidant properties as well as the degradability of the composites increased. It is noteworthy that composites containing 75% wt. hemp fibers neutralized 80% of 2,2-diphenyil-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals within 45 min (DPPH assay). In conclusion, the present research work demonstrates that thermally recycled HDPE reinforced with biomass fibers received from agricultural waste is a valid alternative for the preparation of commodity products with an eco-friendly character compared to conventional wood/plastic composites.
The Effects of Two Weeks of Oral PeakATP® Supplementation on Performance during a Three-Minute All out Test
Authors: Dufner Trevor J. , Moon Jessica M. , Fukuda David H. , Wells Adam J.
Published: April 2023

Exogenous ATP has been shown to increase total weight lifted during resistance training interventions and attenuate fatigue during repeated Wingate assessments. However, the influence of exogenous ATP on single bout maximal effort performance has yet to be examined. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of PeakATP® supplementation on performance during a 3-min all-out test (3MT). Twenty adults (22.3 ± 4.4 years, 169.9 ± 9.5 cm, 78.7 ± 14.6 kg) completed two identical 3MT protocols in a double-blind, counter-balanced, crossover design. Participants were randomized to either PeakATP® (400 mg·day−1) or placebo (PLA) treatments and consumed their assigned supplement for 14 days and ingested an acute dose 30 min before each 3MT. A 14-day wash-out period was completed between each supplementation period and subsequent 3MT. Peak power, time to peak power, work above end power, end power, and fatigue index were assessed during each 3MT. Dependent t-tests and Hedge’s g effect sizes were used to assess differences between treatments. No significant differences were observed between treatments for 3MT performance (p > 0.05). These findings indicate that 3MT performance was not significantly impacted by PeakATP® supplementation. This may be due in part to the continuous nature of the 3MT as disodium ATP has been shown to be beneficial for repeated bout activities.
Effect of Hull and Propeller Roughness during the Assessment of Ship Fuel Consumption
Authors: Tadros Mina , Ventura Manuel , Guedes Soares C.
Published: April 2023

The effects of hull and propeller roughness are presented over ten years of operation on ship performance. The developed model used in this study is a combination of NavCad and Matlab to perform the resistance and propulsion computations of the selected ship as well as the processing of input and output data. By considering the ship hull, the engine installed and an optimized propeller, the ship performance is computed for a different combination of hull and propeller roughness according to the ITTC recommendations and the opinion of experts in the marine field. Twelve cases are simulated over the selected years of operations and compared to the new ship performance. The hull roughness has the dominant effect on the performance of the ship due to its large area. However, by adding the effect of propeller roughness, an increment is noticed in the loading ratio and fuel consumption by 1–4% and 2–4%, respectively, in addition to the hull roughness. From this study, it is concluded that the roughness of both the hull and propeller is important consider to achieve more accurate results than just considering the hull roughness.
A Correlation between 3′-UTR of OXA1 Gene and Yeast Mitochondrial Translation
Authors: Hajikarimlou Maryam , Hooshyar Mohsen , Sunba Noor , Nazemof Nazila , Moutaoufik Mohamed Taha , Phanse Sadhena , Said Kamaledin B. , Babu Mohan , Holcik Martin , Samanfar Bahram , Smith Myron , Golshani Ashkan
Published: April 2023

Mitochondria possess their own DNA (mtDNA) and are capable of carrying out their transcription and translation. Although protein synthesis can take place in mitochondria, the majority of the proteins in mitochondria have nuclear origin. 3′ and 5′ untranslated regions of mRNAs (3′-UTR and 5′-UTR, respectively) are thought to play key roles in directing and regulating the activity of mitochondria mRNAs. Here we investigate the association between the presence of 3′-UTR from OXA1 gene on a prokaryotic reporter mRNA and mitochondrial translation in yeast. OXA1 is a nuclear gene that codes for mitochondrial inner membrane insertion protein and its 3′-UTR is shown to direct its mRNA toward mitochondria. It is not clear, however, if this mRNA may also be translated by mitochondria. In the current study, using a β-galactosidase reporter gene, we provide genetic evidence for a correlation between the presence of 3′-UTR of OXA1 on an mRNA and mitochondrial translation in yeast.
Estimating Travel Time for Autonomous Mobile Robots through Long Short-Term Memory
Authors: Matei Alexandru , Precup Stefan-Alexandru , Circa Dragos , Gellert Arpad , Zamfirescu Constantin-Bala
Published: April 2023

Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are gaining popularity in various applications such as logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare. One of the key challenges in deploying AMR is estimating their travel time accurately, which is crucial for efficient operation and planning. In this article, we propose a novel approach for estimating travel time for AMR using Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks. Our approach involves training the network using synthetic data generated in a simulation environment using a digital twin of the AMR, which is a virtual representation of the physical robot. The results show that the proposed solution improves the travel time estimation when compared to a baseline, traditional mathematical model. While the baseline method has an error of 6.12%, the LSTM approach has only 2.13%.
Nonlinear Stability of the Monotone Traveling Wave for the Isothermal Fluid Equations with Viscous and Capillary Terms
Authors: Li Xiang , Zhang Weiguo , Jin Haipeng
Published: April 2023

We prove the existence of the monotone traveling wave for the isothermal fluid equations with viscous and capillary terms by the planar dynamical system method. We obtain that the monotone traveling wave is asymptotically stable under the suitable perturbation. In the process of establishing the uniform a priori estimate, we dispose the capillary term reasonably according to the feature of the equations, and find the appropriate weighted function to overcome the difficulty caused by the non-convex pressure function.
A Case of Pneumothorax Ex Vacuo Associated with COVID-19
Authors: Yoshino Ryusei , Yoshida Nana , Yasuda Shunsuke , Ito Akane , Nakatsubo Masaki , Kitada Masahiro
Published: April 2023

Pneumothorax is a known complication of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The concept of pneumothorax ex vacuo has also been proposed to describe pneumothorax that occurs after malignant pleural effusion drainage. Herein, we present the case of a 67-year-old woman who had abdominal distension for 2 months. A detailed examination led to the suspicion of an ovarian tumor and revealed an accumulation of pleural effusion and ascitic fluid. Thoracentesis was performed, raising the suspicion of metastasis of high-grade serous carcinoma arising from the ovary. An ovarian biopsy was scheduled to select subsequent pharmacotherapy, and a drain was inserted preoperatively into the left thoracic cavity. Thereafter, a polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that the patient was positive for COVID-19. Thus, the surgery was postponed. After the thoracic cavity drain was removed, pneumothorax occurred, and mediastinal and subcutaneous emphysema was observed. Thoracic cavity drains were then placed again. The patient’s condition was conservatively relieved without surgery. This patient may have developed pneumothorax ex vacuo during the course of a COVID-19 infection. Since chronic inflammation in the thoracic cavity is involved in the onset of pneumothorax ex vacuo, careful consideration is required for the thoracic cavity drainage of malignant pleural effusion and other fluid retention.
Photonic Crystals Fabricated by Two-Photon Polymerization with Mechanical Defects
Authors: Stinson Victoria Paige , Shuchi Nuren , Louisos Dustin , McLamb Micheal , Boreman Glenn D. , Hofmann Tino
Published: April 2023

One-dimensional photonic crystals have been used in sensing applications for decades, due to their ability to induce highly reflective photonic bandgaps. In this study, one-dimensional photonic crystals with alternating low- and high-density layers were fabricated from a single photosensitive polymer (IP-Dip) by two-photon polymerization. The photonic crystals were modified to include a central defect layer with different elastic properties compared to the surrounding layers, for the first time. It was observed that the defect mode resonance can be controlled by compressive force. Very good agreement was found between the experimentally measured spectra and the model data. The mechanical properties of the flexure design used in the defect layer were calculated. The calculated spring constant is of similar magnitude to those reported for microsprings fabricated on this scale using two-photon polymerization. The results of this study demonstrate the successful control of a defect resonance in one-dimensional photonic crystals fabricated by two-photon polymerization by mechanical stimuli, for the first time. Such a structure could have applications in fields, such as micro-robotics, and in micro-opto–electro–mechanical systems (MOEMSs), where optical sensing of mechanical fluctuations is desired.
A New Rapid and Specific Iodination Reagent for Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Hauenschild Till , Hinderberger Dariush
Published: April 2023

A new rapid iodination reagent, N1,N3,N5-tris[(2,4,6-trimethylpyridine)iodo(I)]-2,4,6-triphenyl-s-triazine trihexafluorophosphate, was synthesized in a modification of the established synthesis of 2,4,6-triiodo-3,5-dimethylphenol in the presence of bis(2,4,6-trimethylpyridine)iodo(I) hexafluorophosphate and used for the precise post-modification of mono- and trisubstituted phenyl compounds. We performed triple iodinations with our new phenyl-based compounds as a proof of principle of selected types of phenols, ß-sympatholytic agents and their spin-labeled derivatives, which can be employed in electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The new rapid iodination reagent can be employed with high reactivity and regioselectivity.
Short Review of Self-Powered Nitrogen Removal via Abiotic Electrochemical Catalysis
Authors: Yu Binbin , Xu Wei , Jin Yanxian
Published: April 2023

Microbial nitrification and denitrification are efficient technologies for the treatment of nitrogen-containing wastewater. However, these biotic technologies are inapplicable for the treatment of toxic substances such as heavy metals, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, adsorbable organic halogens, and polychlorinated biphenyls, which have an inhibitory effect on microbial metabolism. It is therefore necessary to develop abiotic nitrogen removal technology with comparable cost efficiency. Nitrogen contaminants are promising indirect fuel sources. The integration of electrocatalysis energy conversion with nitrogen contaminants could drive an entire electrochemical system to obtain nitrogen removal in a self-powered fashion. Research advances in the development of fuel cells have corroborated their promising application for nitrogen removal. This work aims to review the most recent advances in the utilization of ammonia and nitrate as fuels for self-powered nitrogen removal and demonstrate how close this technology is to integration with future applications. The mechanism of ammonia–oxygen fuel cells is first summarized, followed by an overview of recent research on self-powered systems based on various noble-metal-free catalysts. We then introduce different harvesting and conversion methods using nitrate with a desired power output and nitrogen removal efficiency. The final section demonstrates the shortcomings of research and future innovative perspectives for self-powered wastewater treatment.
Design and Modelling of Heat-Coupled Storage System with High- and Low-Pressure Bypass: Electrothermal Characteristics and Peak Regulating Performance
Authors: Yang Han , Tao Sun , Honghe Ma
Published: April 2023

To achieve a balance between supply and demand during cogeneration system operation, it is necessary to improve the peak regulation capacity and regulatory flexibility of the unit. Considering the excellent performance of energy storage systems, a heat-coupled storage system with high- and low-pressure bypass is proposed to increase peak regulation capacity. Employing a 300 MW heating unit as the research object, thermal system models of a traditional-pumping steam-heating system, a high- and low-pressure bypass heating system, and a coupled system were built using Aspen Plus software. The electric heating characteristics of the three systems, as well as the peak regulation capacity and peak regulation depth of the coupled system, were analysed under different storage and heat release loads. Results indicate that the high- and low-voltage bypass system and the coupled system both improve the peak capacity and control flexibility of the unit. Moreover, the coupled system has a greater influence on the maximum thermoelectric ratio and minimum charge rate than the high- and low-voltage bypass heating system, thereby extending the range of safe operation. The peak capacity and depth of heat storage are 65.55 MW and 21.85%, respectively, while the peak capacity and the depth of the heat-release process are 39.32 MW and 13.10%.
Determination of the Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Properties of Pomegranate Peel Extract Obtained by Ultrasound on HCT-116 Colorectal Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Habchi Christie , Badran Adnan , Srour Mortada , Daou Anis , Baydoun Elias , Hamade Kamar , Hijazi Akram
Published: April 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in the world. When treating patients, therapeutic agents have side effects; hence, the use of natural compounds found in medicinal plants including pomegranate. Ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE) is a new technique evolving to the detriment of traditional methods such as maceration. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant and anticancer effect of pomegranate peel extracts obtained by maceration and UAE at three different ultrasonic power levels (P1 = 10 W; P2 = 50 W; P3 = 100 W) on HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells. Phytochemical screening highlighted the presence of primary and secondary metabolites in pomegranate peels. In addition, the ethanolic extract obtained by UAE at 50 W was shown to be the most concentrated in phenolic and flavonoid compounds and have the most powerful antioxidant activity, which reached a maximum activity of 92% as determined by DPPH test. Similarly, the MTT cell viability test showed that the extract obtained by UAE at 50 W had the most potent inhibitory effect compared to the other extracts. In conclusion, the UAE at 50 W was shown to be the most suitable and efficient extraction technique to obtain bioactive compounds from pomegranate peel extracts that can be used in the treatment of CRC.
Combustion Chamber Optimization for Dual-Fuel Biogas–Diesel Co-Combustion in Compression Ignition Engines
Authors: Caprioli Stefano , Volza Antonello , Scrignoli Francesco , Savioli Tommaso , Mattarelli Enrico , Rinaldini Carlo Alberto
Published: April 2023

Micro-cogeneration with locally produced biogas from waste is a proven technique for supporting the decarbonization process. However, the strongly variable composition of biogas can make its use in internal combustion engines quite challenging. Dual-fuel engines offer advantages over conventional SI and diesel engines, but there are still issues to be addressed, such as the low-load thermodynamic efficiency and nitrogen oxide emissions. In particular, it is highly desirable to reduce NOx directly in the combustion chamber in order to avoid expensive after-treatment systems. This study analyzed the influence of the combustion system, especially the piston bowl geometry and the injector nozzle, on the performance and emissions of a dual-fuel diesel–biogas engine designed for micro-cogeneration (maximum electric power: 50 kW). In detail, four different cylindrical piston bowls characterized by radii of 23, 28, 33 and 38 mm were compared with a conventional omega-shaped diesel bowl. Moreover, the influence of the injector tip position and the jet tilt angle was analyzed over ranges of 2–10 mm and 30–120°, respectively. The goal of the optimization was to find a configuration that was able to reduce the amount of NOx while maintaining high values of brake thermal efficiency at all the engine operating conditions. For this purpose, a 3D-CFD investigation was carried out by means of a customized version of the KIVA-3V code at both full load (BMEP = 8 bar, 3000 rpm, maximum brake power) and partial load (BMEP = 4 bar, 3000 rpm). The novelty of the study consisted of the parametric approach to the problem and the high number of investigated parameters. The results indicated that the standard design of the piston bowl yielded a near-optimal trade-off at full load between the thermodynamic efficiency and pollutant emissions; however, at a lower load, significant advantages could be found by designing a deeper cylindrical bowl with a smaller radius. In particular, a new bowl characterized by a radius of 23 mm was equivalent to the standard one at BMEP = 8 bar, but it yielded a NOx-specific reduction of 38% at BMEP = 4 bar with the same value of BTE.
A New Wave of Bahā’ī Intellectual Thought: The Impact and Contributions of World Order Magazine
Authors: Fazel Seena B.
Published: April 2023

This paper explores the scholarship and intellectual contribution of the second series of World Order magazine, which published from 1966 until 2008 over 38 volumes. In so doing, I provide a narrative overview of the main themes and papers in World Order, and by extension some of the topics being discussed in the worldwide Bahā’ī community. This is complemented by interviews with past World Order editors, who provided information on papers, topics and issues that generated the most interest and print runs, a listing of the number of pieces and articles by topic, and a questionnaire survey of those attending an academic Bahā’ī conference. I compare themes identified in the overview with contemporary discourses over a similar period drawing on surveys of textbook and journal contents in similar areas. In addition, I summarise available information on the most cited (from Google Scholar) and downloaded (from Bahā’ī Library online) World Order papers, and hence those contributions with the most impact using these quantitative approaches. I show that Abizadeh’s paper on ‘Ethnicity, Race, and a Possible Humanity’, which discusses how the concept of the oneness of humanity can potentially address racial problems, is the most cited paper, and Stokes’s paper on ‘The Story of Joseph in Five Religious Traditions’, a piece on comparative religion, is the most downloaded. Overall, the most cited and downloaded papers are indicative of the breadth of topics covered in World Order, with pieces on political philosophy, law, education, history, theology, and psychology. The number of articles and editorials on social issues, such as racial justice, women’s rights, and environmentalism, is one indication that the Bahā’ī community was at the forefront of thinking about social action.
Overview of the Application of Remote Sensing in Effective Monitoring of Water Quality Parameters
Authors: Adjovu Godson Ebenezer , Stephen Haroon , James David , Ahmad Sajjad
Published: April 2023

This study provides an overview of the techniques, shortcomings, and strengths of remote sensing (RS) applications in the effective retrieval and monitoring of water quality parameters (WQPs) such as chlorophyll-a concentration, turbidity, total suspended solids, colored dissolved organic matter, total dissolved solids among others. To be effectively retrieved by RS, these WQPs are categorized as optically active or inactive based on their influence on the optical characteristics measured by RS sensors. RS applications offer the opportunity for decisionmakers to quantify and monitor WQPs on a spatiotemporal scale effectively. The use of RS for water quality monitoring has been explored in many studies using empirical, analytical, semi-empirical, and machine-learning algorithms. RS spectral signatures have been applied for the estimation of WQPs using two categories of RS, namely, microwave and optical sensors. Optical RS, which has been heavily applied in the estimation of WQPs, is further grouped as spaceborne and airborne sensors based on the platform they are on board. The choice of a particular sensor to be used in any RS application depends on various factors including cost, and spatial, spectral, and temporal resolutions of the images. Some of the known satellite sensors used in the literature and reviewed in this paper include the Multispectral Instrument aboard Sentinel-2A/B, Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer, Landsat Thematic Mapper, Enhanced Thematic Mapper, and Operational Land Imager.
A Comprehensive Review of Geospatial Technology Applications in Earthquake Preparedness, Emergency Management, and Damage Assessment
Authors: Shafapourtehrany Mahyat , Batur Maryna , Shabani Farzin , Pradhan Biswajeet , Kalantar Bahareh , Özener Haluk
Published: April 2023

The level of destruction caused by an earthquake depends on a variety of factors, such as magnitude, duration, intensity, time of occurrence, and underlying geological features, which may be mitigated and reduced by the level of preparedness of risk management measures. Geospatial technologies offer a means by which earthquake occurrence can be predicted or foreshadowed; managed in terms of levels of preparation related to land use planning; availability of emergency shelters, medical resources, and food supplies; and assessment of damage and remedial priorities. This literature review paper surveys the geospatial technologies employed in earthquake research and disaster management. The objectives of this review paper are to assess: (1) the role of the range of geospatial data types; (2) the application of geospatial technologies to the stages of an earthquake; (3) the geospatial techniques used in earthquake hazard, vulnerability, and risk analysis; and (4) to discuss the role of geospatial techniques in earthquakes and related disasters. The review covers past, current, and potential earthquake-related applications of geospatial technology, together with the challenges that limit the extent of usefulness and effectiveness. While the focus is mainly on geospatial technology applied to earthquake research and management in practice, it also has validity as a framework for natural disaster risk assessments, emergency management, mitigation, and remediation, in general.