bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolated and Interconnected Multi-Area Hybrid Power Systems: A Review on Control Strategies
Authors: Ranjan Sudhanshu , Jaiswal Smriti , Latif Abdul , Das Dulal Chandra , Sinha Nidul , Hussain S. M. Suhail , Ustun Taha Selim
Published: December 2021

Concerned with the increasing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere due to fossil fuels, the entire world is focusing on electricity generation through renewable energy resources. The most advantageous aspect of the distributed renewable sources is to provide the electricity to remote, scattered and the deprived rural areas by developing the hybrid power system at the smaller scale where power transmission through grid extension is not viable due to some economical, technical or environmental constraints for building new transmission lines. An accurate and adequate control strategy becomes inevitable to uphold the smooth operation by restraining the frequency and voltage deviation within its limit ensuring the highest degree of reliability of hybrid power system to provide an adequate power quality. In this paper, a comprehensive review of different control strategies adopted in isolated and interconnected multi-area hybrid power systems is presented.
Associations of Embeddedness and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder among 9/11 Survivors
Authors: Hamwey Meghan K. , Pollari Cristina D. , Osahan Sukhminder , Garrey Sascha K. , Ortega Felix M. , Solomon Adrienne , Brackbill Robert M.
Published: December 2021

Following exposures to traumatic events on 9/11, survivors have reported heightened levels of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Multiple factors contribute to both the exacerbation and amelioration of PTSD symptoms, including social integration and support. This cross-sectional study aimed to understand and identify associations of embeddedness and psychosocial risk factors by PTSD status for survivors and first responders of 9/11. Results indicate that those with chronic PTSD had the lowest prevalence of both social and emotional embeddedness and many who reported no PTSD symptoms following 9/11 reported moderate levels of social and emotional embeddedness. Overall, our findings suggest those individuals who reported little to no PTSD also reported the most social/emotional embeddedness; whereas those individuals who report greater or chronic PTSD report the least social/emotional embeddedness. As such, it may be beneficial for clinicians across multiple care disciplines and contexts to consider and address the social lives and needs of those individuals experiencing symptoms of PTSD to ensure their emotional and physical needs are truly being met.
The Pretoria Bone Collection: A 21st Century Skeletal Collection in South Africa
Authors: L’Abbé Ericka N. , Krüger Gabriele C. , Theye Charlotte E. G. , Hagg Alieske C. , Sapo Okuhle
Published: December 2021

The Pretoria Bone Collection (PBC) began in 1942 with the opening of a medical school at the University of Pretoria (UP) in Pretoria, South Africa, where this skeletal collection is housed in the Department of Anatomy. The purpose of this paper is to provide information on the national legislation associated with obtaining, curating and researching skeletal remains in South Africa, the demographic composition of the PBC, and the inclusion of a portion of these remains into a digital repository known as Bakeng se Afrika (BsA). The PBC comprises 873 complete skeletons, 344 complete postcrania without crania, and 308 complete crania without postcrania. Skeletal contents are reflective of the population statistics of South Africa, with a smaller proportion of White (32%) than Black (65%) South Africans. Unlike the population profile, males in the PBC are greater in number (75.5%) than females (24.5%), which may be explained by the number of migrant labourers traveling into a large city such as Pretoria. From this sample, crania (206), maxillae (141), mandibulae (408), femora (137), and radii (134), as well as several other skeletal elements were micro-XCT scanned and are available on the BsA server. A researcher needs to submit an online application to the Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Pretoria for access to these collections.
The Impact of Globalization on Forest Growth: Evidence from Multinational Panel Data
Authors: Wang Quan-Jing , Geng Yong , Xia Xi-Qiang
Published: December 2021

Even though some existing literature has studied the impact of globalization on forest growth, this research remains inconclusive; moreover, little clarification has emerged as to whether the influence of globalization on forest growth is consistent among different countries. To fill this research gap, we investigated the impact of globalization on forest growth and considered what factors could change the influence of the former upon the latter. To empirically investigate these essential issues, we utilized cross-country data covering 108 countries during the period 1991–2018 to conduct a system generalized method of moment (GMM) estimation. The baseline results confirm the positive impact of globalization on forest growth, which is also supported by several robustness tests, such as changing the measurements and setting new samples. Furthermore, an increase in globalization would bring about higher forest growth. Aside from this, two specific dimensions of globalization, namely economics and trade, can also protect forest growth. Additionally, a higher FDI strengthens the positive impact of globalization on forest growth, while aging, industrial share, and CO2 emissions weaken it. Finally, the impact of globalization on forests is weaker in democracies, emerging markets, and countries with higher fiscal freedoms, while it is stronger in countries with higher political stability. Our study provides substantial policy implications for governments participating in international treaties related to forest growth. The structure of this paper is organized as follows.
The Effect of Periodization on Training Program Adherence
Authors: Clemente-Suárez Vicente Javier , Ramos-Campo Domingo Jesús , Tornero-Aguilera José Francisco , Parraca Jose A. , Batalha Nuno
Published: December 2021

The present research aimed to study the effect of three different training periodization (traditional, reverse, and free training) on the aerobic performance, motivation, and adherence of physically active athletes. We analysed the adherence to three different periodization training programs: traditional, reverse, and free training periodization on the adherence of amateur triathletes. For this aim, the individual adherence, motivation, and aerobic performance time and heart rate (in a 1000 m running test) were evaluated before and after the completion of the three different 8-week periodization programs. The level of adherence to the reverse periodization was significantly higher than in traditional and free training. The number of dropouts in reverse and traditional periodization was similar but lower than in the free training. Finally, neither of the periodization programs improved aerobic performance and reverse training periodization decreased heart rate of participants in a 1000 m running test.
The Genetic Backdrop of Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism
Authors: Szeliga Anna , Kunicki Michal , Maciejewska-Jeske Marzena , Rzewuska Natalia , Kostrzak Anna , Meczekalski Blazej , Bala Gregory , Smolarczyk Roman , Adashi Eli Y.
Published: December 2021

The pituitary is an organ of dual provenance: the anterior lobe is epithelial in origin, whereas the posterior lobe derives from the neural ectoderm. The pituitary gland is a pivotal element of the axis regulating reproductive function in mammals. It collects signals from the hypothalamus, and by secreting gonadotropins (FSH and LH) it stimulates the ovary into cyclic activity resulting in a menstrual cycle and in ovulation. Pituitary organogenesis is comprised of three main stages controlled by different signaling molecules: first, the initiation of pituitary organogenesis and subsequent formation of Rathke’s pouch; second, the migration of Rathke’s pouch cells and their proliferation; and third, lineage determination and cellular differentiation. Any disruption of this sequence, e.g., gene mutation, can lead to numerous developmental disorders. Gene mutations contributing to disordered pituitary development can themselves be classified: mutations affecting transcriptional determinants of pituitary development, mutations related to gonadotropin deficiency, mutations concerning the beta subunit of FSH and LH, and mutations in the DAX-1 gene as a cause of adrenal hypoplasia and disturbed responsiveness of the pituitary to GnRH. All these mutations lead to disruption in the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis and contribute to the development of primary amenorrhea.
Rheological Relaxation of OSB Beams Reinforced with CFRP Composites
Authors: Socha Tomasz , Kula Krzysztof , Denisiewicz Arkadiusz , Lesiuk Grzegorz , Błażejewski Wojciech
Published: December 2021

An experimental and analytical approach to the relaxation problem of wood-based materials—OSB (Oriented Strand Boards—pressed wood-based composite panels) beams, including beams with CFRP (Carbon fiber reinforced polymer) tape composite reinforcement, is presented. It is a relevant engineering and scientific problem due to the fact that wood and wood-based materials, as well as composite reinforcements, are widely used in building constructions. Their rheological properties are very important and complicated to estimate. A 10 day long relaxation test of thick OSB beams without reinforcement and with CFRP tape was performed. A four-point bending test with five different bending levels was performed, during which the reduction of the loading force was measured. A five-parameter rheological model was used to describe the rheology of the beams. The equations of this model were calculated with the use of Laplace transform, whereas the values of the parameters were calculated based on the experimental relaxation curves. A high correlation between experimental and theoretical results was obtained. A beam reinforced with CFRP tape was treated as a system with a viscoelastic element (OSB) and an elastic element (CFRP), joined together without the possibility of slipping. The equations of the mathematical model were calculated based on the assumptions of the linear theory of viscoelasticity and the convolution integral. A good correlation between experimental and theoretical results was obtained. A significant redistribution of stresses was observed during the relaxation of the reinforced beam. The reinforced beams show a higher stiffness of approximately 63% and carry proportionally higher loads than unreinforced beams at the same deflection values.
Physicochemical Characteristics of Chitosan-Based Hydrogels Modified with Equisetum arvense L. (Horsetail) Extract in View of Their Usefulness as Innovative Dressing Materials
Authors: Głąb Magdalena , Drabczyk Anna , Kudłacik-Kramarczyk Sonia , Krzan Marcel , Tyliszczak Bożena
Published: December 2021

This work focused on obtaining and characterizing hydrogels with their potential application as dressing materials for chronic wounds. The research included synthesizing chitosan-based hydrogels modified with Equisetum arvense L. (horsetail) extract via photopolymerization, and their characteristics determined with regard to the impact of both the modifier and the amount of crosslinker on their properties. The investigations included determining their sorption properties and tensile strength, evaluating their behavior in simulated physiological liquids, and characterizing their wettability and surface morphology. The release profile of horsetail extract from polymer matrices in acidic and alkaline environments was also verified. It was proved that hydrogels showed swelling ability while the modified hydrogels swelled slightly more. Hydrogels showed hydrophilic nature (all contact angles were <77°). Materials containing horsetail extract exhibited bigger elasticity than unmodified polymers (even by 30%). It was proved that the extract release was twice as effective in an acidic medium. Due to the possibility of preparation of hydrogels with specific mechanical properties (depending on both the modifier and the amount of crosslinker used), wound exudate sorption ability, and possibility of the release of active substance, hydrogels show a great application potential as dressing materials.
Effect of Rod-like Structure on Fatigue Life, Short Surface Crack Initiation and Growth Characteristics of Extruded Aluminum Alloy A2024 (Analysis via Modified Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics)
Authors: Masuda Kenichi , Ishihara Sotomi , Shibata Hiroshi , Oguma Noriyasu
Published: December 2021

In the Al alloy A2024-T3 extruded material, a rod-like structure is generated parallel to the extrusion direction. In this study, the effects of rod-like structures on fatigue crack initiation and growth behavior were comprehensively investigated. Two types of specimens were used in a fatigue experiment, in which the direction of the load stress amplitude was parallel (specimen P) and perpendicular (specimen V) to the rod-like structure. Based on the experimental and analytical results, the following findings were obtained regarding the fatigue life, location of crack initiation, and fatigue crack growth behavior. Because the fatigue life of specimen P was longer than that of specimen V, it is inferred that the rod-like structure significantly affects the fatigue life. In specimen P, fatigue cracks were generated from the grain boundaries of the Al matrix. By contrast, in specimen V, cracks were generated from the Cu–Mg-based intermetallic compound in the Al matrix. In specimen P, fatigue cracks were more likely to propagate across the rod-like structure, which decreased the fatigue crack growth rate. In specimen V, fatigue cracks did not propagate across the rod-like structure; instead, they propagated through the Al matrix. Therefore, the fatigue crack growth resistance of specimen V was lower than that of specimen P. The relationship between the fatigue crack growth rate and the modified linear elastic fracture mechanics parameter could be used to predict the S–N curve (stress amplitude vs. fatigue life) and fatigue crack growth behavior. The predicted results agreed well with the experimental results.
Microstructure and Fatigue Damage of 316L Stainless Steel Manufactured by Selective Laser Melting (SLM)
Authors: Wang Zhentao , Yang Shanglei , Huang Yubao , Fan Cong , Peng Zeng , Gao Zihao
Published: December 2021

In this paper, 316L stainless steel powder was processed and formed by selective laser melting (SLM). The microstructure of the sample was studied using an optical microscope, and the fatigue failure of the sample and the characteristics of crack initiation and propagation were analyzed, providing a research basis for the application of SLM-316L. Due to the influence of microstructure and SLM process defects, the fatigue cracks of SLM-316L mainly emerged due to defects such as lack of fusion and pores, while the cracks of rolled 316L initiated at the inclusions near the surface of the specimen. After fatigue microcrack initiation of the SLM-316L specimen, due to the existence of shear stress and tear stress, the crack tip was passivated and Z-shaped propagation was formed. The existence of internal defects in SLM-316L made the microcrack initiation random and diverse. At the same time, the existence of defects affected the crack propagation in the form of bending, bifurcation and bridge, which made the main crack propagation deviate from the maximum load direction.
Trimethoprim Antibiotic Adsorption from Aqueous Solution onto Eco-Friendly Zr-Metal Organic Framework Material
Authors: Elkady Marwa , Diab Kamal E. , Shokry Hassan
Published: December 2021

The synthesis of Bio-MOF using aspartic acid as an organic linker and water as a solvent was performed to create an environmentally friendly material. The chemical composition, structure, and morphology of the synthesized zirconium Bio-MOF (MIP-202) was evaluated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The synthesized Bio-MOF was used as an adsorbent for trimethoprim antibiotic as pollutants from an aqueous solution under various operating parameters. The increase in the initial trimethoprim concentration from 2.5 mg/L to 20 mg/L decreased the decontamination efficiency from 77.6% to 35.9% at a solution pH of 7 with 0.5 g/L adsorbent dose after 60 min reaction time. The rise of adsorbent dose from 0.1 g/L to 1.5 g/L increased the removal efficiency from 47.7% to 87.6%. The maximum trimethoprim removal efficiency of 95% was attained at a solution pH of 11. Langmuir and pseudo-second order models described the adsorption process of trimethoprim antibiotic onto zirconium Bio-MOF and the chemo-physical nature of trimethoprim adsorption onto the synthesized zirconium Bio-MOF. Accordingly, it was evident that the prepared zirconium Bio-MOF (MIP-202) is an ecofriendly and efficient adsorbent for antibiotic decontamination from polluted water.
Direct Plasmonic Solar Cell Efficiency Dependence on Spiro-OMeTAD Li-TFSI Content
Authors: Geng Xinjian , Abdellah Mohamed , Bericat Vadell Robert , Folkenant Matilda , Edvinsson Tomas , Sá Jacinto
Published: December 2021

The proliferation of the internet of things (IoT) and other low-power devices demands the development of energy harvesting solutions to alleviate IoT hardware dependence on single-use batteries, making their deployment more sustainable. The propagation of energy harvesting solutions is strongly associated with technical performance, cost and aesthetics, with the latter often being the driver of adoption. The general abundance of light in the vicinity of IoT devices under their main operation window enables the use of indoor and outdoor photovoltaics as energy harvesters. From those, highly transparent solar cells allow an increased possibility to place a sustainable power source close to the sensors without significant visual appearance. Herein, we report the effect of hole transport layer Li-TFSI dopant content on semi-transparent, direct plasmonic solar cells (DPSC) with a transparency of more than 80% in the 450–800 nm region. The findings revealed that the amount of oxidized spiro-OMeTAD (spiro+TFSI−) significantly modulates the transparency, effective conductance and conditions of device performance, with an optimal performance reached at around 33% relative concentration of Li-TFSI concerning spiro-OMeTAD. The Li-TFSI content did not affect the immediate charge extraction, as revealed by an analysis of electron–phonon lifetime. Hot electrons and holes were injected into the respective layers within 150 fs, suggesting simultaneous injection, as supported by the absence of hysteresis in the I–V curves. The spiro-OMeTAD layer reduces the Au nanoparticles’ reflection/backscattering, which improves the overall cell transparency. The results show that the system can be made highly transparent by precise tuning of the doping level of the spiro-OMeTAD layer with retained plasmonics, large optical cross-sections and the ultrathin nature of the devices.
Nutrient Intake and Gut Microbial Genera Changes after a 4-Week Placebo Controlled Galacto-Oligosaccharides Intervention in Young Females
Authors: Johnstone Nicola , Dart Susannah , Knytl Paul , Nauta Arjen , Hart Kathryn , Cohen Kadosh Kathrin
Published: December 2021

Recent interest in the gut-brain-axis has highlighted the potential of prebiotics to impact wellbeing, and to affect behavioral change in humans. In this clinical trial, we examined the impact of four-weeks daily supplementation of galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) on self-reported nutrient intake and relationships on gut microbiota in a four-week two-armed parallel double-blind placebo controlled GOS supplement trial in young adult females. Food diaries and stool samples were collected prior to and following 28 days of supplement consumption. It was found that four weeks of GOS supplementation influenced macronutrient intake, as evident by reduced carbohydrate and sugars and increased fats intake. Further analysis showed that the reduction in carbohydrates was predicted by increasing abundances of Bifidobacterium in the GOS group in comparison to the placebo group. This suggests that Bifidobacterium increase via GOS supplementation may help improve the gut microbiota composition by altering the desire for specific types of carbohydrates and boosting Bifidobacterium availability when fiber intake is below recommended levels, without compromising appetite for fiber from food.
Socioeconomic Risk Factors of Poor Nutritional Status in Polish Elderly Population: The Results of PolSenior2 Study
Authors: Krzymińska-Siemaszko Roma , Deskur-Śmielecka Ewa , Kaluźniak-Szymanowska Aleksandra , Kaczmarek Beata , Kujawska-Danecka Hanna , Klich-Rączka Alicja , Mossakowska Małgorzata , Małgorzewicz Sylwia , Dworak Lechosław B. , Kostka Tomasz , Chudek Jerzy , Wieczorowska-Tobis Katarzyna
Published: December 2021

Poor nutritional status (PNS) threatens successful aging. Identifying potentially modifiable predictors of PNS is essential for elaborating a preventive strategy for the population at risk. To assess the prevalence of PNS in the Polish elderly population and analyze its socioeconomic correlates based on the data from the nationwide PolSenior2 project. Special emphasis was put on potentially modifiable factors among the identified PNS predictors. Nutritional status was assessed in 5698 community-dwelling older adults with the Mini Nutritional Assessment–Short Form. We evaluated the effect of age, sex, level of education, marital status, place of residence, subjective loneliness, and self-reported poverty on the nutritional status of the studied subjects. PNS was found in 25.3% of studied subjects (27.7% women and 21.9% men; p < 0.001). Female sex, older age, unmarried status (in men), subjective loneliness, and self-reported poverty were independent correlates of PNS. The two last above-mentioned predictors were identified as potentially modifiable. Based on our results, we recommend preventive interventions (e.g., performing regular screening), particularly in unmarried (men), poorly educated individuals, self-reporting poverty, complaining of loneliness, and the oldest old. PNS preventive strategies should include social support (both emotional and instrumental) to reduce the effect of poverty and subjective loneliness.
Current Use of EEN in Pre-Operative Optimisation in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Shariff Sharafaath , Moran Gordon , Grimes Caris , Cooney Rachel Margaret
Published: December 2021

Despite the increasing array of medications available for the treatment of Crohn’s disease and a focus on mucosal healing, approximately 35% of patients with Crohn’s disease undergo bowel surgery at some stage. The importance of nutritional optimisation before Crohn’s surgery is well-highlighted by surgical, nutritional, and gastroenterological societies with the aim of reducing complications and enhancing recovery. Surgical procedures are frequently undertaken when other treatment options have been unsuccessful, and, thus, patients may have lost weight and/or required steroids, and are therefore at higher risk of post-operative complications. EEN is used extensively in the paediatric population to induce remission, but is not routinely used in the induction of remission of adult Crohn’s disease or in pre-operative optimisation. Large prospective studies regarding the role of pre-operative EEN are lacking. In this review, we evaluate the current literature on the use of EEN in pre-operative settings and its impact on patient outcomes.
Habitual Choline Intakes across the Childbearing Years: A Review
Authors: Derbyshire Emma , Obeid Rima , Schön Christiane
Published: December 2021

Choline is an important nutrient during the first 1000 days post conception due to its roles in brain function. An increasing number of studies have measured choline intakes at the population level. We collated the evidence focusing on habitual choline intakes in the preconceptual, pregnancy, and lactation life stages. We conducted a review including studies published from 2004 to 2021. Twenty-six relevant publications were identified. After excluding studies with a high choline intake (>400 mg/day; two studies) or low choline intake (<200 mg/day; one study), average choline intake in the remaining 23 studies ranged from 233 mg/day to 383 mg/day, even with the inclusion of choline from supplements. Intakes were not higher in studies among pregnant and lactating women compared with studies in nonpregnant women. To conclude, during the childbearing years and across the globe, habitual intakes of choline from foods alone and foods and supplements combined appear to be consistently lower than the estimated adequate intakes for this target group. Urgent measures are needed to (1) improve the quality of choline data in global food composition databases, (2) encourage the reporting of choline intakes in dietary surveys, (3) raise awareness about the role(s) of choline in foetal–maternal health, and (4) consider formally advocating the use of choline supplements in women planning a pregnancy, pregnant, or lactating.
Exposure of Caenorhabditis elegans to Dietary Nε-Carboxymethyllysine Emphasizes Endocytosis as a New Route for Intestinal Absorption of Advanced Glycation End Products
Authors: Dubois Constance , Litke Rachel , Rianha Stéphane , Paul-Constant Charles , Lo Guidice Jean-Marc , Taront Solenne , Tessier Frédéric J. , Boulanger Eric , Fradin Chantal
Published: December 2021

The impact of dietary advanced glycation end products (dAGEs) on human health has been discussed in many studies but, to date, no consensual pathophysiological process has been demonstrated. The intestinal absorption pathways which have so far been described for dAGEs, the passive diffusion of free AGE adducts and transport of glycated di-tripeptides by the peptide transporter 1 (PEPT-1), are not compatible with certain pathophysiological processes described. To get new insight into the intestinal absorption pathways and the pathophysiological mechanisms of dAGEs, we initiated an in vivo study with a so-called simple animal model with a complete digestive tract, Caenorhabditis elegans. Dietary bacteria were chemically modified with glyoxylic acid to mainly produce Nε-carboxymethyllysine (CML) and used to feed the worms. We performed different immunotechniques using an anti-CML antibody for the relative quantification of ingested CML and localization of this AGE in the worms’ intestine. The relative expression of genes encoding different biological processes such as response to stresses and intestinal digestion were determined. The physiological development of the worms was verified. All the results were compared with those obtained with the control bacteria. The results revealed a new route for the intestinal absorption of dietary CML (dCML), endocytosis, which could be mediated by scavenger receptors. The exposure of worms to dCML induced a reproductive defect and a transcriptional response reflecting oxidative, carbonyl and protein folding stresses. These data, in particular the demonstration of endocytosis of dCML by enterocytes, open up new perspectives to better characterize the pathophysiological mechanisms of dAGEs.
The Relation between General Relativity’s Metrics and Special Relativity’s Gravitational Scalar Generalized Potentials and Case Studies on the Schwarzschild Metric, Teleparallel Gravity, and Newtonian Potential
Authors: Vossos Spyridon , Vossos Elias , Massouros Christos G.
Published: December 2021

This paper shows that gravitational results of general relativity (GR) can be reached by using special relativity (SR) via a SR Lagrangian that derives from the corresponding GR time dilation and vice versa. It also presents a new SR gravitational central scalar generalized potential V=V(r,r.,ϕ.), where r is the distance from the center of gravity and r.,ϕ. are the radial and angular velocity, respectively. This is associated with the Schwarzschild GR time dilation from where a SR scalar generalized potential is obtained, which is exactly equivalent to the Schwarzschild metric. Thus, the Precession of Mercury’s Perihelion, the Gravitational Deflection of Light, the Shapiro time delay, the Gravitational Red Shift, etc., are explained with the use of SR only. The techniques used in this paper can be applied to any GR spacetime metric, Teleparallel Gravity, etc., in order to obtain the corresponding SR gravitational scalar generalized potential and vice versa. Thus, the case study of Newtonian Gravitational Potential according to SR leads to the corresponding non-Riemannian metric of GR. Finally, it is shown that the mainstream consideration of the Gravitational Red Shift contains two approximations, which are valid in weak gravitational fields only.
Fragment-Based Ligand Discovery Applied to the Mycolic Acid Methyltransferase Hma (MmaA4) from Mycobacterium tuberculosis: A Crystallographic and Molecular Modelling Study
Authors: Galy Romain , Ballereau Stéphanie , Génisson Yves , Mourey Lionel , Plaquevent Jean-Christophe , Maveyraud Laurent
Published: December 2021

The mycolic acid biosynthetic pathway represents a promising source of pharmacological targets in the fight against tuberculosis. In Mycobacterium tuberculosis, mycolic acids are subject to specific chemical modifications introduced by a set of eight S-adenosylmethionine dependent methyltransferases. Among these, Hma (MmaA4) is responsible for the introduction of oxygenated modifications. Crystallographic screening of a library of fragments allowed the identification of seven ligands of Hma. Two mutually exclusive binding modes were identified, depending on the conformation of residues 147–154. These residues are disordered in apo-Hma but fold upon binding of the S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) cofactor as well as of analogues, resulting in the formation of the short η1-helix. One of the observed conformations would be incompatible with the presence of the cofactor, suggesting that allosteric inhibitors could be designed against Hma. Chimeric compounds were designed by fusing some of the bound fragments, and the relative binding affinities of initial fragments and evolved compounds were investigated using molecular dynamics simulation and generalised Born and Poisson–Boltzmann calculations coupled to the surface area continuum solvation method. Molecular dynamics simulations were also performed on apo-Hma to assess the structural plasticity of the unliganded protein. Our results indicate a significant improvement in the binding properties of the designed compounds, suggesting that they could be further optimised to inhibit Hma activity.
Performance of Gelatin Films Reinforced with Cloisite Na+ and Black Pepper Essential Oil Loaded Nanoemulsion
Authors: Saranti Tascila F. da S. , Melo Pamela T. S. , Cerqueira Miguel A. , Aouada Fauze A. , de Moura Marcia R.
Published: December 2021

The concern about consuming eco-friendly products has motivated research in the development of new materials. Therefore, films based on natural polymers have been used to replace traditional polymers. This study consists of a production of films based on gelatin reinforced with black pepper essential oil-loaded nanoemulsions and Cloisite Na+. The films were characterized by water vapor permeability, mechanical and thermal properties, surface contact angle, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. It was observed that the films containing the nanoemulsion have higher permeability values and an increase in their mechanical resistance. The addition of nanoclay contributed to an increase in the surface hydrophobicity of the film and an increase in the tensile strength, at break, by about 150%. The addition of essential oil nanoemulsions led to an increase in thermal stability. The presence of clay dispersion contributed to the formation of a surface that was slightly rougher and grainier. The addition of the black pepper essential oil nanoemulsion resulted in an increase in porosity of the gelatin matrix. Through X-ray diffraction analysis, it was possible to conclude that both the polymeric gelatin matrix and the essential oils nanoemulsion are intercalated with the clay dispersion.
A Suspicious Multi-Object Detection and Recognition Method for Millimeter Wave SAR Security Inspection Images Based on Multi-Path Extraction Network
Authors: Yuan Minghui , Zhang Quansheng , Li Yinwei , Yan Yunhao , Zhu Yiming
Published: December 2021

There are several major challenges in detecting and recognizing multiple hidden objects from millimeter wave SAR security inspection images: inconsistent clarity of objects, similar objects, and complex background interference. To address these problems, a suspicious multi-object detection and recognition method based on the Multi-Path Extraction Network (MPEN) is proposed. In MPEN, You Only Look Once (YOLO) v3 is used as the base network, and then the Multi-Path Feature Pyramid (MPFP) module and modified residual block distribution are proposed. MPFP is designed to output the deep network feature layers separately. Then, to distinguish similar objects more easily, the residual block distribution is modified to improve the ability of the shallow network to capture details. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, the millimeter wave SAR images from the laboratory’s self-developed security inspection system are utilized in conducting research on multi-object detection and recognition. The detection rate (probability of detecting a target) and average false alarm (probability of error detection) rate of our method on the target are 94.6% and 14.6%, respectively. The mean Average Precision (mAP) of recognizing multi-object is 82.39%. Compared with YOLOv3, our method shows a better performance in detecting and recognizing similar targets.
Application of a Hand-Held LiDAR Scanner for the Urban Cadastral Detail Survey in Digitized Cadastral Area of Taiwan Urban City
Authors: Chio Shih-Hong , Hou Kai-Wen
Published: December 2021

The cadastral detail data is used for overlap analysis with digitized graphic cadastral maps to solve the problem of inconsistencies between cadastral maps and the current land situation. This study investigated the feasibility of a handheld LiDAR scanner to collect 3D point clouds in an efficient way for a detail survey in urban environments with narrow and winding streets. Then, urban detail point clouds were collected by the handheld LiDAR scanner. After point cloud filtering and the ranging systematic error correction that was determined by a plane-based calibration method, the collected point clouds were transformed to the TWD97 cadastral coordinate system using control points. The land detail line data were artificially digitized and the results showed that about 97% error of the digitized detail positions was less than 15 cm compared to the check points surveyed by a total station. The results demonstrated the feasibility of using a handheld LiDAR scanner to perform an urban cadastral detail survey in digitized graphic areas. Therefore, the handheld LiDAR scanner could be used for the production of the detail lines for urban cadastral detail surveying for digitized cadastral areas in Taiwan.
Understanding of an Iceberg Breaking Off Event Based on Ice-Front Motion Analysis of Amery Ice Shelf, Antarctica
Authors: Chi Zhaohui , Klein Andrew
Published: December 2021

On 26 September 2019, a massive iceberg broke off the west side of the Amery Ice Shelf (AIS) in East Antarctica. Since 1973, the AIS calving front has steadily advanced at a rate of 1.0 km yr−1. However, the advancement rate of the central portion of the AIS increased dramatically during 2012–2015, which indicates a velocity increase prior to the calving event. Eight calving front locations from 1973 to 2018 were mapped to investigate the advancement rate of AIS over the entire observational period. Additionally, the propagation of rift A was observed unstable from 2012 to 2015. The westward propagation rate of rift A1 increased to 3.7 km yr−1 from 2015 to 2017, which was considerably faster than the other rifts near the AIS calving front. The increased advancement rate and the increasing propagation magnitude of at least one active rift appear to be precursors of this large calving event.
Distribution Modeling and Factor Correlation Analysis of Landslides in the Large Fault Zone of the Western Qinling Mountains: A Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Qi Tianjun , Zhao Yan , Meng Xingmin , Shi Wei , Qing Feng , Chen Guan , Zhang Yi , Yue Dongxia , Guo Fuyun
Published: December 2021

The area comprising the Langma-Baiya fault zone (LBFZ) and the Bailongjiang fault zone (BFZ) in the Western Qinling Mountains in China is characterized by intensive, frequent, multi-type landslide disasters. The spatial distribution of landslides is affected by factors, such as geological structure, landforms, climate and human activities, and the distribution of landslides in turn affects the geomorphology, ecological environment and human activities. Here, we present the results of a detailed landslide inventory of the area, which recorded a total of 2765 landslides. The landslides are divided into three categories according to relative age, area, and type of movement. Sixteen factors related to geological structure, geomorphology, materials composition and human activities were selected and four machine learning algorithms were used to model the spatial distribution of landslides. The aim was to quantitatively evaluate the relationship between the spatial distribution of landslides and the contributing factors. Based on a comparison of model accuracy and the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve, RandomForest (RF) (accuracy of 92%, area under the ROC of 0.97) and GradientBoosting (GB) (accuracy of 96%, area under the ROC curve of 0.97) were selected to predict the spatial distribution of unclassified landslides and classified landslides, respectively. The evaluation results reveal the following. The vegetation coverage index (NDVI) (correlation of 0.2, and the same below) and distance to road (DTR) (0.13) had the highest correlations with the distribution of unclassified landslides. NDVI (0.18) and the annual precipitation index (API) (0.14) had the highest correlations with the distribution of landslides of different ages. API (0.16), average slope (AS) (0.14) and NDVI (0.1) had the highest correlations with the landslide distribution on different scales. API (0.28) had the highest correlation with the landslide distribution based on different types of landslide movement.
Explainable Boosting Machines for Slope Failure Spatial Predictive Modeling
Authors: Maxwell Aaron E. , Sharma Maneesh , Donaldson Kurt A.
Published: December 2021

Machine learning (ML) methods, such as artificial neural networks (ANN), k-nearest neighbors (kNN), random forests (RF), support vector machines (SVM), and boosted decision trees (DTs), may offer stronger predictive performance than more traditional, parametric methods, such as linear regression, multiple linear regression, and logistic regression (LR), for specific mapping and modeling tasks. However, this increased performance is often accompanied by increased model complexity and decreased interpretability, resulting in critiques of their “black box” nature, which highlights the need for algorithms that can offer both strong predictive performance and interpretability. This is especially true when the global model and predictions for specific data points need to be explainable in order for the model to be of use. Explainable boosting machines (EBM), an augmentation and refinement of generalize additive models (GAMs), has been proposed as an empirical modeling method that offers both interpretable results and strong predictive performance. The trained model can be graphically summarized as a set of functions relating each predictor variable to the dependent variable along with heat maps representing interactions between selected pairs of predictor variables. In this study, we assess EBMs for predicting the likelihood or probability of slope failure occurrence based on digital terrain characteristics in four separate Major Land Resource Areas (MLRAs) in the state of West Virginia, USA and compare the results to those obtained with LR, kNN, RF, and SVM. EBM provided predictive accuracies comparable to RF and SVM and better than LR and kNN. The generated functions and visualizations for each predictor variable and included interactions between pairs of predictor variables, estimation of variable importance based on average mean absolute scores, and provided scores for each predictor variable for new predictions add interpretability, but additional work is needed to quantify how these outputs may be impacted by variable correlation, inclusion of interaction terms, and large feature spaces. Further exploration of EBM is merited for geohazard mapping and modeling in particular and spatial predictive mapping and modeling in general, especially when the value or use of the resulting predictions would be greatly enhanced by improved interpretability globally and availability of prediction explanations at each cell or aggregating unit within the mapped or modeled extent.
Calibration and Data Quality Assurance Technical Advancements for Quantitative Remote Sensing in the DRAGON 4 Project
Authors: Ma Lingling , Zhao Yongguang , Li Chuanrong , Goryl Philippe , Liu Cheng , He Jieying , Wang Pucai , Bouvet Marc , Zhao Ran , Wang Ning , Liu Yaokai , Gao Caixia , Dils Bart , Zhang Chengxin , Chan Ka Lok , Wang Xinhong
Published: December 2021

Robust calibration and validation (Cal and Val) should guarantee the accuracy of the retrieved information, make the remote sensing data consistent and traceable, and maintain the sensor performance during the operational phase. The DRAGON program has set up many remote sensing research topics on various application domains. In order to promote the effectiveness of data modeling and interpretation, it is necessary to solve various challenges in Cal and Val for quantitative RS applications. This project in the DRAGON 4 program aims to promote the cooperation of the Cal and Val experts from European and Chinese institutes in Cal and Val activities, and several achievements have been obtained in the advanced on-orbit optical sensor calibration, as well as microwave remote sensor calibration and product generation. The outcomes of the project have benefited the related remote sensing modeling and product retrieval, and promoted the radiometric calibration network (RadCalNet) as an international operational network for calibration, intercalibration, and validation. Moreover, this project provided local governments with a more accurate OMI NO2 data in China, which were used to study the air quality control during APEC period, Parade period and G20 period. This will be of ongoing be value for monitoring atmospheric environmental quality and formulating pollution control strategies.
The Reliability of the Microsoft Kinect and Ambulatory Sensor-Based Motion Tracking Devices to Measure Shoulder Range-of-Motion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Beshara Peter , Anderson David B. , Pelletier Matthew , Walsh William R.
Published: December 2021

Advancements in motion sensing technology can potentially allow clinicians to make more accurate range-of-motion (ROM) measurements and informed decisions regarding patient management. The aim of this study was to systematically review and appraise the literature on the reliability of the Kinect, inertial sensors, smartphone applications and digital inclinometers/goniometers to measure shoulder ROM. Eleven databases were screened (MEDLINE, EMBASE, EMCARE, CINAHL, SPORTSDiscus, Compendex, IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, Proquest Science and Technology, Scopus, and PubMed). The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the consensus-based standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) checklist. Reliability assessment used intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) and the criteria from Swinkels et al. (2005). Thirty-two studies were included. A total of 24 studies scored “adequate” and 2 scored “very good” for the reliability standards. Only one study scored “very good” and just over half of the studies (18/32) scored “adequate” for the measurement error standards. Good intra-rater reliability (ICC > 0.85) and inter-rater reliability (ICC > 0.80) was demonstrated with the Kinect, smartphone applications and digital inclinometers. Overall, the Kinect and ambulatory sensor-based human motion tracking devices demonstrate moderate–good levels of intra- and inter-rater reliability to measure shoulder ROM. Future reliability studies should focus on improving study design with larger sample sizes and recommended time intervals between repeated measurements.
Recording Natural Head Position Using Cone Beam Computerized Tomography
Authors: Hsung Tai-Chiu , Yeung Wai-Kan , Choi Wing-Shan , Luk Wai-Kuen , Cheng Yi-Yung , Lam Yu-Hang
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to develop a technique to record the natural head position (NHP) of a subject using the scout images of cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) scans. The first step was to align a hanging mirror with the vertical (XY) plane of the CBCT field-of-view (FOV) volume. Then, two scout CBCT images, at frontal and at sagittal planes, were taken when the subject exhibited a NHP. A normal CBCT scan on the subject was then taken separately. These scout images were used to correct the orientation of the normal CBCT scan. A phantom head was used for validation and performance analysis of the proposed method. It was found that the orientation detection error was within 0.88°. This enables easy and economic NHP recording for CBCT without additional hardware.
Analysis of Light Grip Influence on Standing Posture
Authors: Bellicha Angélina , Trujillo-León Andrés , Vérité Fabien , Bachta Wael
Published: December 2021

Upright posture control and gait are essential for achieving autonomous daily living activities. Postural control of upright posture relies, among others, on the integration of various sensory information. In this context, light touch (LT) and light grip (LG) of a stationary object provide an additional haptic sensory input that helps to reduce postural sway. When LG was studied through the grasp of a cane, the sensory role of this assistive tool was often limited to a mediation interface. Its role was restricted to transmit the interaction forces between its tip and the ground to the hand. While most studies involve participants standing in an unstable way, such as the tandem stance, in this paper we study LG from a different perspective. We attached a handle of a cane firmly to a stationary support. Thus, we can focus on the role of the hand receptors in the LG mechanism. LG condition was ensured through the tactile information gathered by FSR sensors placed on the handle surface. Moreover, participants involved in our study stood in a usual way. The study involved twelve participants in an experiment composed of two conditions: standing relaxed while lightly gripping an equipped handle attached to the ground, and standing in the same way without gripping the handle. Spatial and frequency analyses confirmed the results reported in the literature with other approaches.