bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FINANCIAL AND ECONOMIC MECHANISM OF DECENTRALIZED NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
Authors: Lytsur Ihor , Alekseeva Y.
Published: December 2020

The article formulates and reveals the initial provisions of the theory of formation of financial and economic mechanism of decentralized management of natural resources, detailed taking into account the basic elements of ensuring a sufficient level of financial support of the nature management process. strategies of spatial sustainable development. Methodologically important provisions of the process of formation of three main financial flows that can make up the income of OTG are substantiated. The first is the community’s fiscal revenues from local taxes and fees, fines and other payments. Secondly, it is a part of profits from production activity of commercial corporate structures. Third is the income from theinvestment activities of municipal or regional financial institutions.
DYNAMICS OF CHANGES IN THE FOREST FUND OF NATURAL RESERVE «DREVLYANSKY»
Authors: Martynenko Vasyl , Konishchuk V.
Published: December 2020

The analysis of the dynamics of changes in the areas of land categories and the average tax indicatorsof the Drevlyansky Nature Reserve is carried out. It is established that the area of the forest fund of theReserve has not changed. There was an increase in the area of forest land covered by 106.9 hectares andin 2018 is 15021.1 hectares. The area of lands not covered with forest vegetation decreased by 107.5 ha, ofwhich the area of non-closed forest crops decreased by 104.5 ha. With a decrease in the area of forest landsby 0.6 ha, the area of non-forest lands (swamps) increased accordingly. There were also minor changesamong the taxonomic indicators of the stand. The average age of the stand increased by 5.5 years (from1.5 years the age of hanging birch increased to 6.5 years of aspen). The average credit rating decreased by0.16 (from 2.45 to 2.61). The largest decrease occurred by 0.8 in pine banks (from 1.8 to 2.6). The highestquality in Canadian poplar. There was also an increase in average fullness: from 0.78 in 2008 (mediumstand) to 0.81 in 2018 (high stand) the largest increase in fullness occurred in hanging birch — by 0.05(from 0.73 to 0.78 ). There are also stands with a density of 1.0, the area of which decreased in 2018 compared to 2008 by 107 hectares (from 356.8 hectares to 346.1 hectares). The total stock of the stand increasedby 12.5% and amounts to 4321.83 thousand m3. The increase in area occurred from 9.1% (3.06 thousandm3) in common oak to 37.7% (28.98 thousand m3) in hanging birch. The increase in the average stock per1 ha of forest vegetation is from 1.11 m3 / ha in aspens to 32.52 m3 / ha in hanging birch. This analysisof changes in land categories and average tax indicators is necessary to develop an effective action planfor forest conservation, increase the forest cover of the Reserve and provide future status of old growthforest.
QUALITY OF NATURAL WATERS IN AGROLANDSCAPES OF THE FOREST-STEPPE ZONE DEPENDING ON ANTHROPOGENIC LOAD
Authors: Davydiuk H. , Shkarivska L. , Klimenko I.I. , Dovbash Nadiia , Demyanyuk Olena
Published: December 2020

Pollution and depletion of water resources is becoming a global environmental problem today. Theissue of quality control of drinking and pond water in rural areas is an urgent, multifaceted problem, as it directly affects the health of the population.Therefore, on the basis of monitoring studies, the assessment of the state of natural waters (drinking water of decentralized water supply and open reservoirs — ponds) in the agro-landscapes of the ForestSteppe zone for various agro-technogenic use was carried out. The state of natural waters has been studied by the method of agroecological monitoring. Conducted monitoring studies of the state of natural waters indicate their significant non-compliance with regulatory requirements, both for drinking purposes and for fishery needs. It is determined that their quality condition is due to the hydrological regime and the level of anthropogenic load, which leads to an increase in the content of pollutants in natural waters suchas nitrates, ammonium compounds, copper, nickel, chlorides. Most often, water from the wells of the surveyed rural settlements had an excess of nitrates. Ammonium compounds were one of the most common water pollutants in ponds. This is due to the violation of sanitary requirements of the territory, non-compliance with the rules of disposal of livestock and household waste, which occurs even if the territory of the entire agricultural landscape is involved in organic farming.Therefore, the issue of natural water quality control and reduction of risks of their pollution is important from the point of view of improving the quality of drinking water and preservation of open natural reservoirs, as it directly affects the health of the population. Studies show that to prevent contamination of groundwater (wells) and surface water bodies (ponds), it is necessary to anticipate the risks of contaminants entering groundwater and the likelihood of their lateral leaching.
THE EFFECTS OF TECHNOLOGICAL PROCEDURES ON THE FORMATION OF PHOTOSYNTHETIC APPARATUS OF FIELD PEA IN CONDITIONS OF WESTERN FOREST-STEPPE
Authors: Nebaba K.
Published: December 2020

Boosting field pea overall productivity comes with the increased photosynthetic activity. Due to theincrease in the size of the leaf surface, and the extension of the period of activity of leaves, stipules, andwhiskers of plants, the rate of solar radiation intercepted by crops, including field pea, rises.The aim of the research was to identify the influence of mineral fertilizers and growth regulators onthe leaf surface area dynamics and the formation of the photosynthetic potential of field pea varieties inthe Western Forest-Steppe.
The experimental part of the work was carried out during 2016–2018 in the experimental field of theTraining and Production Center «Podilya» at the State Agrarian and Engineering University in Podilya. Thefield experiment was laid down in the research ten-digit crop rotation. The soil of the experimental fieldwas the typical black earth, characterized as deep, low-humus, and heavy gravel on forest-like loams.The results of the research indicate that the maximum leaf area indexes for field pea crops wererecorded at the micro stage BBCH 60-69. The largest leaf surface area was formed by the Chekbek peavariety. Leaf area ranged from 179.7 to 323.8 cm2 per plant, depending on the application of differentdoses of mineral fertilizers. Spraying of field pea plants (Gotovsky, Chekbek and Fargus varieties) at themicro stage BBCH 51–59 (budding — flowering) with growth regulators Plantapeg (application rate of25 g/ha), Emistim C (30 ml/ha) and Vimpel (30 ml/ha) had a positive effect on the formation of the leafsurface area and photosynthetic potential of the plant. On average, growth rates increased by 28–52%.According to the findings of the study, at the micro stages BBCH 60-69 some fertilization variantshave demonstrated doubling rates of the photosynthetic potential of plants. Therefore, the maximumphotosynthetic potential was recorded at the areas where mineral fertilizer N45P30K45 was inoculated incombination with the growth regulator Vimpel, which amounted 1.54 million m2/ha × day for the Chekbek field pea variety, 1.29 million mm2/ha × day for the Gotovsky field pea variety, and 1.25 millionmm2/ha × day for the Fargus variety.
On the dangers of conflating strong and weak versions of a theory of consciousness
Authors: Michel Matthias , Lau Hakwan
Published: December 2020

Some proponents of the Integrated Information Theory (IIT) of consciousness profess strong views on the Neural Correlates of Consciousness (NCC), namely that large swathes of the neocortex, the cerebellum, at least some sensory cortices, and the so-called limbic system are all not essential for any form of conscious experiences. We argue that this connection is not incidental. Conflation between strong and weak versions of the theory has led these researchers to adopt definitions of NCC that are inconsistent with their own previous definitions, inadvertently betraying the promises of an otherwise fruitful empirical endeavour.
Distinguishing absence of awareness from awareness of absence
Authors: Mazor Matan , Fleming Stephen M.
Published: December 2020

Contrasting brain states when subjects are aware compared to unaware of a presented stimulus has allowed researchers to isolate candidate neural correlates of consciousness. Here we propose that an important next step in this research program is to investigate, perhaps paradoxically, brain states that covary with reports of absences of awareness. Specifically, we propose that in order to distinguish content-specific and content-invariant neural correlates of consciousness, a distinction needs to be made between the neural correlates of awareness of stimulus absence, and the neural correlates of absence of awareness (of either stimulus presence or absence). We ground this distinction in higher-order computational models of consciousness, where the state of higher-order nodes is invariant to the specific contents of awareness. To map the different levels of these models to neurophysiological correlates, we suggest two empirical approaches – inverted designs and two-dimensional awareness reports – in which reports about awareness and stimulus presence can be dissociated.
Preparation and Characterization of Activated Carbon from Pandanus candelabrum Stem
Authors: Dim Paul , ILOKA Augustine Ugochukwu , OKAFOR Joseph  Onyebuchi
Published: December 2020

Pandanus candelabrum stem, a new precursor, was used to synthesise activate carbon. The effect of sodium hydroxide, NaOH, zinc (II) chloride, ZnCl2 and phosphoric acid, H3PO4, different agents on prepared adsorbents was investigated. The adsorbents were prepared with chemical agents and carbonized at 400 oC for 1 hour. Surface morphology, elemental composition and functional groups were analysed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), respectively. The image analysis showed the presence of both micropores and mesopores in the adsorbents. The H3PO4 activated carbon had the maximum surface area (2648 m2/g), pore volume (1.683 cm3/g) and highest adsorption for iodine and methylene blue were 541 and 105 mg/g. Pandanus candelabrum stem is an alternative material that can be used to synthesis high porous adsorbent because is abundant, easy to access, inexpensive and readily available.

 

Keywords: Activated, adsorption, iodine number, methylene blue, Pandanus candelabrum, reagents
DAMPAK PERUNDUNGAN ANAK YANG MEMILIKI SAUDARA KANDUNG (SIBLING) DISABILITAS GANDA
Authors: Trustisari Hastin , Esterilita Mari
Published: December 2020

This article is a research focusing on bullying experienced by siblings as a result of having family members with multiple disabilities. This research is a case study of siblings whose family members attend SLBG (Special School for Multiple Disabilities) Rawinala East Jakarta. Bullying does not only encounter people with disabilities, but also their siblings. The limitations possessed by people with multiple disabilities are often concerned and treated differently by family members and the community. Living together with people who have double disabilities as siblings is a challenge that creates particular vulnerability among siblings themselves. This vulnerability is influenced by how parents and the surroundings understand children with disabilities and their siblings. Having siblings with multiple disabilities could cause bullying. The purpose of this research is to identify forms of bullying received by teenagers who have siblings with multiple  disabilities along with the impact of the bullies . This qualitative research is descriptive study in which the informants are selected by using purposive sampling. Data collection techniques used for this research involved observation, interview, FGD, and documentation. The data processing is conducted in several stages: data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion and data verification. The results of this study indicate that teenagers who experience bullying  have certain acceptance reactions towards their siblings with disabilities. This condition causes siblings with disabilities feel ashamed, unconfident, thus it impacts their relationship with both  their aforementioned siblings with multiple disabilities and the community. Supports from family and the surroundings are urgently needed to overcome the impact of bullying.
Hubungan Pola Makan Terhadap Kejadian Hipertensi di Wilayah Kerja Puskesmas Kebun Sikolos Kota Padang Panjang Tahun 2019
Authors: Yasril Abdi Iswahyudi , Rahmadani Widya
Published: December 2020

Hypertension is a non-communicable disease. This continues to increase from year to year, and can lead to various other chronic diseases. This study aims to analyze the effect of diet on hypertension in 2019. This type of research is an observational analytic study with a prospective cohort study design. The population in this study were all adults (26 - 45 years) at the Puskesmas Kebun Sikolos. By means of purposive random sampling, a sample of 110 respondents was selected. The data obtained were processed by computerization using the Chi-square test and the Mantel Haenszel test. Chi-square test results showed that there was a relationship between salt consumption (p = 0.004 and RR = 1.521), fat (p = 0.008 and RR = 1.464), fiber (p = 0.014 and RR = 2.047) and caffeine (p = 0.012 and RR = 1.438) against hypertension. The coat-Haenszel test results showed that age, gender, family history, physical activity, smoking habits, and obesity were confounding factors in the relationship between diet and hypertension. It can be concluded that the main factor that is closely related to hypertension is salt consumption. It is advisable to provide an understanding to the public about the risk of frequent salt consumption which causes hypertension to be very beneficial
Pengembangan Alat Pemorsian Nasi Sesuai Standar Diet Pasien Rawat Inap di Rumah Sakit
Authors: Mourbas Iswanelly , Nizar Mulyatni , Gusnedi Gusnedi
Published: December 2020

Background: Inaccuracy of rice portions for diets is related to the use of non-standard portioning tools. Objectives: This study aimed to develop a standardized rice portioning device for hospitalized inpatients. Methods: The process of tool design used AutoCAD software with three-dimensional parameter input that was equivalent to a portion of 150g, 200g, and 250g of steam rice. The tools were printed using a 3D printer with a food-safe Polylactic Acid filament as the base material. The accuracy of the portioning tools was measured by weighing and comparing the weight of the rice served with the hospital's standard portion. Results and conclusions: The portioning tools (150g, 200g, and 250g) have the same diameter of the base (54 mm), the surface diameters (mm) are 105.5; 105.0, 103.4, respectively; and the heights (mm) are 37; 51; and 65 respectively. The portioning devices have very good accuracy (99.2% - 100.3%) of the standard hospital portion, much better than the tools commonly used by hospitals (72-129%). They are also easy to use, easy to clean, light, and durable. Recommendation: It is recommended that the hospital use the tools for a more accurate rice portion and in accordance with established dietary standards.
Design and Evaluation of Visible Light Wireless Data Communication Models
Authors: Riurean Simona
Published: December 2020

The technologies based on the radio frequency used for wireless transmission indoor are more congested than ever these days, therefore several wireless communication alternatives are intensively searched. Some most promising technologies are based on the optical part of the electromagnetic spectrum. The benefits and drawbacks in optical wireless data communication models design are presented in this work. The key characteristics of the VLC systems are briefly discussed, as well. Some models developed for wireless data transfer in visible light communication and infrared are presented, and their operation related to the data rate and the length of the optical link, are briefly compared.
Slice Holomorphic Functions in the Unit Ball Having a Bounded L-Index in Direction
Authors: Bandura Andriy , Martsinkiv Maria , Skaskiv Oleh
Published: December 2020

Let b∈Cn\{0} be a fixed direction. We consider slice holomorphic functions of several complex variables in the unit ball, i.e., we study functions that are analytic in the intersection of every slice {z0+tb:t∈C} with the unit ball Bn={z∈C:|z|:=|z|12+…+|zn|2<1} for any z0∈Bn. For this class of functions, there is introduced a concept of boundedness of L-index in the direction b, where L:Bn→R+ is a positive continuous function such that L(z)>β|b|1−|z|, where β>1 is some constant. For functions from this class, we describe a local behavior of modulus of directional derivatives on every ’circle’ {z+tb:|t|=r/L(z)} with r∈(0;β],t∈C,z∈Cn. It is estimated by the value of the function at the center of the circle. Other propositions concern a connection between the boundedness of L-index in the direction b of the slice holomorphic function F and the boundedness of lz-index of the slice function gz(t)=F(z+tb) with lz(t)=L(z+tb). In addition, we show that every slice holomorphic and joint continuous function in the unit ball has a bounded L-index in direction in any domain compactly embedded in the unit ball and for any continuous function L:Bn→R+.
Review of Multivalent Metal Ion Transport in Inorganic and Solid Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: O’Donnell Lauren F. , Greenbaum Steven G.
Published: December 2020

The lithium ion battery, with its high energy density and low reduction potential, continues to enchant researchers and dominate the landscape of energy storage systems development. However, the demands of technology in modern society have begun to reveal limitations of the lithium energy revolution. A combination of safety concerns, strained natural resources and geopolitics have inspired the search for alternative energy storage and delivery platforms. Traditional liquid electrolytes prove precarious in large scale schemes due to the propensity for leakage, the potential for side reactions and their corrosive nature. Alternative electrolytic materials in the form of solid inorganic ion conductors and solid polymer matrices offer new possibilities for all solid state batteries. In addition to the engineering of novel electrolyte materials, there is the opportunity to employ post-lithium chemistries. Utility of multivalent cation (Ca2+, Mg2+, Zn2+ and Al3+) transport promises a reduction in cost and increase in safety. In this review, we examine the current research focused on developing solid electrolytes using multivalent metal cation charge carriers and the outlook for their application in all solid state batteries.
Mimicking the Mammalian Plasma Membrane: An Overview of Lipid Membrane Models for Biophysical Studies
Authors: Luchini Alessandra , Vitiello Giuseppe
Published: December 2020

Cell membranes are very complex biological systems including a large variety of lipids and proteins. Therefore, they are difficult to extract and directly investigate with biophysical methods. For many decades, the characterization of simpler biomimetic lipid membranes, which contain only a few lipid species, provided important physico-chemical information on the most abundant lipid species in cell membranes. These studies described physical and chemical properties that are most likely similar to those of real cell membranes. Indeed, biomimetic lipid membranes can be easily prepared in the lab and are compatible with multiple biophysical techniques. Lipid phase transitions, the bilayer structure, the impact of cholesterol on the structure and dynamics of lipid bilayers, and the selective recognition of target lipids by proteins, peptides, and drugs are all examples of the detailed information about cell membranes obtained by the investigation of biomimetic lipid membranes. This review focuses specifically on the advances that were achieved during the last decade in the field of biomimetic lipid membranes mimicking the mammalian plasma membrane. In particular, we provide a description of the most common types of lipid membrane models used for biophysical characterization, i.e., lipid membranes in solution and on surfaces, as well as recent examples of their applications for the investigation of protein-lipid and drug-lipid interactions. Altogether, promising directions for future developments of biomimetic lipid membranes are the further implementation of natural lipid mixtures for the development of more biologically relevant lipid membranes, as well as the development of sample preparation protocols that enable the incorporation of membrane proteins in the biomimetic lipid membranes.
Kinetic Stability of Si2C5H2 Isomer with a Planar Tetracoordinate Carbon Atom
Authors: Thirumoorthy Krishnan , Chandrasekaran Vijayanand , Cooksy Andrew L. , Thimmakondu Venkatesan S.
Published: December 2020

Dissociation pathways of the global minimum geometry of Si2C5H2 with a planar tetracoordinate carbon (ptC) atom, 2,7-disilatricyclo[4.1.0.01,3]hept-2,4,6-trien-2,7-diyl (1), have been theoretically investigated using density functional theory and coupled-cluster (CC) methods. Dissociation of Si-C bond connected to the ptC atom leads to the formation of 4,7-disilabicyclo[4.1.0]hept-1(6),4(5)-dien-2-yn-7-ylidene (4) through a single transition state. Dissociation of C-C bond connected to the ptC atom leads to an intermediate with two identical transition states and leads back to 1 itself. Simultaneous breaking of both Si-C and C-C bonds leads to an acyclic transition state, which forms an acyclic product, cis-1,7-disilahept-1,2,3,5,6-pentaen-1,7-diylidene (19). Overall, two different products, four transition states, and an intermediate have been identified at the B3LYP/6-311++G(2d,2p) level of theory. Intrinsic reaction coordinate calculations have also been done at the latter level to confirm the isomerization pathways. CC calculations have been done at the CCSD(T)/cc-pVTZ level of theory for all minima. Importantly, all reaction profiles for 1 are found be endothermic in Si2C5H2. These results are in stark contrast compared to the structurally similar and isovalent lowest-energy isomer of C7H2 with a ptC atom as the overall reaction profiles there have been found to be exothermic. The activation energies for Si-C, C-C, and Si-C/C-C breaking are found to be 30.51, 64.05, and 61.85 kcal mol−1, respectively. Thus, it is emphasized here that 1 is a kinetically stable molecule. However, it remains elusive in the laboratory to date. Therefore, energetic and spectroscopic parameters have been documented here, which may be of relevance to molecular spectroscopists in identifying this key anti-van’t-Hoff-Le Bel molecule.
Erratum: Subjective Family Socioeconomic Status and Adolescents’ Attention: Blacks’ Diminished Returns. Children 2020, 7, 80
Authors: Assari Shervin , Boyce Shanika , Bazargan Mohsen
Published: December 2020

The authors have requested that the following changes be made to their paper [...]
Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy in Children: Clinical Perspectives on a Common Comorbidity
Authors: Pavone Piero , Gulizia Carmela , Le Pira Alice , Greco Filippo , Parisi Pasquale , Di Cara Giuseppe , Falsaperla Raffaele , Lubrano Riccardo , Minardi Carmelo , Spalice Alberto , Ruggieri Martino
Published: December 2020

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a frequent cause of childhood disability often associated with a complex group of disorders, including epilepsy, which is reported to impact approximately 40% of affected individuals. This retrospective study involved a group of children affected by CP, some of whom also had comorbid epilepsy. The aim of this study was to report our experience of analyzing, in particular, (a) some of the clinical aspects of the different type of CP, and (b) the relationship between the clinical data of children affected by CP plus epilepsy and each type of CP. Methods: This retrospective single-center study was performed with 93 children admitted to the Pediatric Department of the University of Catania, Italy, affected by CP and distinguished according to the type of motor clinical presentation, with 46 showing epileptic seizures, compared to a control group of 136 children affected by epilepsy without other neurologic disorders. Results: Among the 93 CP children, 25 (27%) had spastic quadriplegia (plus one patient with dystonic quadriplegia), 39 (42%) had spastic hemiplegia, 11 (12%) had spastic diplegia (plus two with ataxia and one with dyskinetic CP), and 14 (15%) did not have a well-defined type of CP. The frequency of epilepsy was higher in affected CP children who showed major motor dysfunction (GMFCS IV–V types). As regards the 46 children with CP plus epilepsy, compared to the group of the control, the age of epilepsy onset was found to be statistically significant: 21 ± 35.1 months vs. 67 ± 39.7. Conclusions: Epilepsy represents one of the most frequent comorbidities of cerebral palsy. In children with CP, particular attention should be paid to the early identification and treatment of comorbid epilepsy.
The Dynamic Thumb-in-Palm Pattern in Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy and Its Effects on Upper Limb Function
Authors: Choi Ja Young , Rha Dong-Wook , Kim Seon Ah , Park Eun Sook
Published: December 2020

The thumb-in-palm (TIP) pattern is one of the most common upper limb deformities in cerebral palsy (CP). This study was designed to investigate the effect of the dynamic TIP pattern on upper limb function in children with spastic CP. This prospective observational study included a total of 106 children with CP with dynamic TIP. The House TIP classification while grasping small or large objects, Melbourne Assessment of Unilateral Upper Limb Function (MUUL), Shriners Hospital Upper Extremity Evaluation (SHUEE), Zancolli classification for wrist–finger flexor deformity, and degree of swan neck deformity were assessed. Type I was the most common and highest functioning House TIP classification type. However, there were no significant differences in upper arm function between types II, III, and IV. The three components of the SHUEE showed stronger association with MUUL than House TIP and Zancolli classifications. After multivariable analysis, functional use of the wrist–finger and the thumb played a more significant role than the dynamic alignment of the thumb. In conclusion, the House TIP classification is useful to describe the TIP pattern. The SHUEE thumb assessment is a useful tool for reflecting upper arm function. The upper arm function was related more with the associated wrist flexor deformity than dynamic TIP.
Secular Changes in Body Build and Body Composition in Czech Preschool Children in the Context of Latent Obesity
Authors: Sedlak Petr , Pařízková Jana , Samešová Daniela , Musálek Martin , Dvořáková Hana , Novák Jan
Published: December 2020

Changes in lifestyle can be significantly reflected in growth and development. Adaptations to reduced levels of physical activity, together with non-corresponding nutritional intakes, can result in body build and body composition changes at an early age. The present cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the secular trend of modifications of body composition and body mass index (BMI) in Czech preschoolers over the last two to three decades. Boys and girls (386 boys and 372 girls) aged 4 to 6 years in 2014–2019 were measured. Outcome data were compared with the reference sample of preschoolers from 1990: 911 boys and 896 girls. Body height, BMI, and percentage of body fat, muscle, and bone mass were evaluated. Height and BMI have not changed. Body fat increased in both genders (p < 0.01), and contrarily, a significant reduction of muscle and skeletal mass was revealed (p < 0.001). Significant changes in body composition and unchanged BMI indicate the development of latent obesity during the last few decades. Due to latent obesity in a recent cohort, the differences in the prevalence of overweight and obesity markers according to BMI and fat percentage were tested. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was higher by 7.2% in boys, and by 6.5% in girls, as compared to children evaluated according to only their BMI results. Secular changes in preschoolers’ physical builds over the last 25 years are not reflected in body height and BMI, but in body composition. Insufficient development of active, lean body mass proportionally compensated by increased fat mass was also indicated.
Rheological Investigation of Thermoresponsive Alginate-Methylcellulose Gels for Epidermal Growth Factor Formulation
Authors: Eskens Olivia , Villani Gianna , Amin Samiul
Published: December 2020

Epidermal growth factors (EGF) serve as promising candidates for skin regeneration and rejuvenation products, but their instability hinders them from widespread use. Protective immobilization and directed release can be achieved through implementing a hydrogel delivery system. Alginate and methylcellulose are both natural polymers offering biocompatibility and environmental sensitivity. This blended gel system was investigated rheologically to understand its performance in topical applications. Alginate and methylcellulose were found to form a synergistic gel system that resulted in superior viscosity and thermoresponsiveness compared to the individual components. Increasing methylcellulose concentration directly enhanced gel elasticity, and higher viscosities provided better thermal protection of EGF. The addition of EGF at 3.33 mg/mL resulted in a decrease of viscosity but an increase in viscoelastic modulus. EGF concentration also played a large role in shear viscosity and thermoresponsiveness of the ternary system. An alginate-methylcellulose system presents promising rheological tunability, which may provide EGF thermal protection in a topical delivery format.
Cutaneous Carotenoid Level Measured by Multiple Spatially Resolved Reflection Spectroscopy Sensors Correlates with Vegetable Intake and Is Increased by Continual Intake of Vegetable Juice
Authors: Hayashi Hiroki , Sato Ikuo , Suganuma Hiroyuki
Published: December 2020

Although vegetables are beneficial for human health, in many countries, the recommended vegetable intake is not reached. To assess vegetable intake, it is important to understand vegetable consumption. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional and intervention study of 26 healthy individuals (50% women; 37.0 ± 8.9 years) and estimated vegetable intake on the basis of the cutaneous carotenoid level (CCL) with a noninvasive skin carotenoid sensor, considering that vegetable juice intake can increase CCL. Participants consumed vegetable juice containing 350 g of vegetables daily for 4 weeks. Blood carotenoid levels and CCL were measured for 12 weeks. Cross-sectional analysis showed a significant positive correlation between CCL and vegetable intake (r = 0.489). Vegetable juice consumption significantly increased CCL and the blood levels of α-carotene, β-carotene, and lycopene (p < 0.05). The correlation coefficient between the blood level and CCL for lycopene was smaller (r = 0.001) compared to that between the blood level and CCL for α-carotene (r = 0.523) and β-carotene (r = 0.460), likely because of bioavailability differences. In conclusion, noninvasive skin carotenoid measurements are effective for determining vegetable intake, and vegetable juice significantly increases CCL.
Applicability of Squeezed- and Coherent-State Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution over Satellite Links
Authors: Derkach Ivan , Usenko Vladyslav C.
Published: December 2020

We address the applicability of quantum key distribution with continuous-variable coherent and squeezed states over long-distance satellite-based links, considering low Earth orbits and taking into account strong varying channel attenuation, atmospheric turbulence and finite data ensemble size effects. We obtain tight security bounds on the untrusted excess noise on the channel output, which suggest that substantial efforts aimed at setup stabilization and reduction of noise and loss are required, or the protocols can be realistically implemented over satellite links once either individual or passive collective attacks are assumed. Furthermore, splitting the satellite pass into discrete segments and extracting the key from each rather than from the overall single pass allows one to effectively improve robustness against the untrusted channel noise and establish a secure key under active collective attacks. We show that feasible amounts of optimized signal squeezing can substantially improve the applicability of the protocols allowing for lower system clock rates and aperture sizes and resulting in higher robustness against channel attenuation and noise compared to the coherent-state protocol.
Cryptographic Algorithm Using Newton-Raphson Method and General Bischi-Naimzadah Duopoly System
Authors: Karawia Abdelrahman
Published: December 2020

Image encryption is an excellent method for the protection of image content. Most authors used the permutation-substitution model to encrypt/decrypt the image. Chaos-based image encryption methods are used in this model to shuffle the rows/columns and change the pixel values. In parallel, authors proposed permutation using non-chaotic methods and have displayed good results in comparison to chaos-based methods. In the current article, a new image encryption algorithm is designed using combination of Newton-Raphson’s method (non-chaotic) and general Bischi-Naimzadah duopoly system as a hyperchaotic two-dimensional map. The plain image is first shuffled by using Newton-Raphson’s method. Next, a secret matrix with the same size of the plain image is created using general Bischi-Naimzadah duopoly system. Finally, the XOR between the secret matrix and the shuffled image is calculated and then the cipher image is obtained. Several security experiments are executed to measure the efficiency of the proposed algorithm, such as key space analysis, correlation coefficients analysis, histogram analysis, entropy analysis, differential attacks analysis, key sensitivity analysis, robustness analysis, chosen plaintext attack analysis, computational analysis, and NIST statistical Tests. Compared to many recent algorithms, the proposed algorithm has good security efficiency.
Composite Multiscale Cross-Sample Entropy Analysis for Long-Term Structural Health Monitoring of Residential Buildings
Authors: Lin Tzu-Kang , Lee Dong-You
Published: December 2020

This study proposesd a novel, entropy-based structural health monitoring (SHM) system for measuring microvibration signals generated by actual buildings. A structural health diagnosis interface was established for demonstration purposes. To enhance the reliability and accuracy of entropy evaluation at various scales, composite multiscale cross-sample entropy (CMSCE) was adopted to increase the number of coarse-grained time series. The degree of similarity and asynchrony between ambient vibration signals measured on adjacent floors was used as an in-dicator for structural health assessment. A residential building that has been monitored since 1994 was selected for long-term monitoring. The accumulated database, including both the earthquake and ambient vibrations in each seismic event, provided the possibility to evaluate the practicability of the CMSCE-based method. Entropy curves obtained for each of the years, as well as the stable trend of the corresponding damage index (DI) graphs, demonstrated the relia-bility of the proposed SHM system. Moreover, two large earthquake events that occurred near the monitoring site were analyzed. The results revealed that the entropy values may have been slightly increased after the earthquakes. Positive DI values were obtained for higher floors, which could provide an early warning of structural instability. The proposed SHM system is highly stable and practical.
A Novel Moment of Inertia Identification Strategy for Permanent Magnet Motor System Based on Integral Chain Differentiator and Kalman Filter
Authors: Jing Chenchen , Yan Yan , Lin Shiyu , Gao Le , Wang Zhixin , Shi Tingna
Published: December 2020

In a motor control system, the parameters tuning of speed and position controller depend on the value of the moment of inertia. A new moment of inertia identification scheme for permanent magnet motor system was proposed in this paper. This is an extension of the existing acceleration deceleration methods, which solves the large moment of inertia identification error caused by variable angular acceleration, large calculation error of inertia torque, and large measurement noise in the acceleration process. Based on the fact that the angular acceleration is not constant and the sampling signal is noisy, the integral chain differentiator was used to calculate the instantaneous angular acceleration at any time and suppress the sampling signal noise at the same time. The error function with instantaneous angular acceleration and inertia torque as parameters was designed to estimate the moment of inertia. In order to calculate the inertia torque accurately, viscous friction torque was considered in the calculation of inertia torque, and Kalman filter was used to estimate the total load torque to solve the problem of under rank of motor motion equation. Simulation and experimental results showed that the proposed method could effectively identify the moment of inertia in both noisy and noiseless environments.
Study of Renewable Energy Penetration on a Benchmark Generation and Transmission System
Authors: Akeyo Oluwaseun M. , Patrick Aron , Ionel Dan M.
Published: December 2020

Significant changes in conventional generator operation and transmission system planning will be required to accommodate increasing solar photovoltaic (PV) penetration. There is a limit to the maximum amount of solar that can be connected in a service area without the need for significant upgrades to the existing generation and transmission infrastructure. This study proposes a framework for analyzing the impact of increasing solar penetration on generation and transmission networks while considering the responses of conventional generators to changes in solar PV output power. Contrary to traditional approaches in which it is assumed that generation can always match demand, this framework employs a detailed minute-to-minute (M-M) dispatch model capable of capturing the impact of renewable intermittency and estimating the over- and under-generation dispatch scenarios due to solar volatility and surplus generation. The impact of high solar PV penetration was evaluated on a modified benchmark model, which includes generators with defined characteristics including unit ramp rates, heat rates, operation cost curves, and minimum and maximum generation limits. The PV hosting capacity, defined as the maximum solar PV penetration the system can support without substantial generation imbalances, transmission bus voltage, or thermal violation was estimated for the example transmission circuit considered. The results of the study indicate that increasing solar penetration may lead to a substantial increase in generation imbalances and the maximum solar PV system that can be connected to a transmission circuit varies based on the point of interconnection, load, and the connected generator specifications and responses.
Mathematical Modeling and Experimental Verification of a New Wave Energy Converter
Authors: Meng Zhongliang , Liu Yanjun , Qin Jian , Chen Yun
Published: December 2020

As traditional energy sources are increasingly depleting, ocean energy has become an emergent potential clean energy source. Wave energy, as an important part of ocean-derived energy, has been studied and utilized by coastal countries worldwide, which have developed various wave energy converters. In this paper, a new wave energy converter is designed, and water movement in fluid channels is analyzed. The results are, then, used to generate a mathematical model that simulates water movement. Based on this approach, the water movement state is analyzed, and a formula for calculating the natural frequency of water movement in the power generator is derived. The formula shows that the characteristic length of the water movement in the proposed generator and the backboard tilt angle at the exit point of the fluid channel are two design-related variables that can be used to alter the natural frequency; a regular wave experiment is conducted based on the fluid model, which is designed based on the natural frequency formula, to verify the changes in model torque and speed as well as whether the model can operate under normal wave conditions. This study lays a theoretical foundation for the design of further experiments and engineering prototypes to verify the validity of mathematical models by way of experimental analysis.
Four-Quadrant Operations of Bidirectional Chargers for Electric Vehicles in Smart Car Parks: G2V, V2G, and V4G
Authors: He Tingting , Lu Dylan Dah-Chuan , Wu Mingli , Yang Qinyao , Li Teng , Liu Qiujiang
Published: December 2020

This paper presents the four-quadrant operation modes of bidirectional chargers for electric vehicles (EVs) framed in smart car parks. A cascaded model predictive control (MPC) scheme for the bidirectional two-stage off-board chargers is proposed. The controller is constructed in two stages. The model predictive direct power control for the grid side is applied to track the active/reactive power references. The model predictive direct current control is proposed to achieve constant current charging/discharging for the EV load side. With this MPC strategy, EV chargers are able to transmit the active and reactive powers between the EV batteries and the power grid. Apart from exchanging the active power, the vehicle-for-grid (V4G) mode is proposed, where the chargers are used to deliver the reactive power to support the grid, simultaneously combined with grid-to-vehicle or vehicle-to-grid operation modes. In the V4G mode, the EV battery functions as the static var compensator. According to the simulation results, the system can operate effectively in the full control regions of the active and reactive power (PQ) plane under the aforementioned operation modes. Fast dynamic response and great steady-state system performances can be verified through various simulation and experimental results.
Commonly Used External TAM Variables in e-Learning, Agriculture and Virtual Reality Applications
Authors: Castiblanco Jimenez Ivonne Angelica , Cepeda García Laura Cristina , Violante Maria Grazia , Marcolin Federica , Vezzetti Enrico
Published: December 2020

In recent years information and communication technologies (ICT) have played a significant role in all aspects of modern society and have impacted socioeconomic development in sectors such as education, administration, business, medical care and agriculture. The benefits of such technologies in agriculture can be appreciated only if farmers use them. In order to predict and evaluate the adoption of these new technological tools, the technology acceptance model (TAM) can be a valid aid. This paper identifies the most commonly used external variables in e-learning, agriculture and virtual reality applications for further validation in an e-learning tool designed for EU farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs. Starting from a literature review of the technology acceptance model, the analysis based on Quality Function Deployment (QFD) shows that computer self-efficacy, individual innovativeness, computer anxiety, perceived enjoyment, social norm, content and system quality, experience and facilitating conditions are the most common determinants addressing technology acceptance. Furthermore, findings evidenced that the external variables have a different impact on the two main beliefs of the TAM Model, Perceived Usefulness (PU) and Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU). This study is expected to bring theoretical support for academics when determining the variables to be included in TAM extensions.
Separating Mesoscale and Submesoscale Flows from Clustered Drifter Trajectories
Authors: Oscroft Sarah , Sykulski Adam M. , Early Jeffrey J.
Published: December 2020

Drifters deployed in close proximity collectively provide a unique observational data set with which to separate mesoscale and submesoscale flows. In this paper we provide a principled approach for doing so by fitting observed velocities to a local Taylor expansion of the velocity flow field. We demonstrate how to estimate mesoscale and submesoscale quantities that evolve slowly over time, as well as their associated statistical uncertainty. We show that in practice the mesoscale component of our model can explain much first and second-moment variability in drifter velocities, especially at low frequencies. This results in much lower and more meaningful measures of submesoscale diffusivity, which would otherwise be contaminated by unresolved mesoscale flow. We quantify these effects theoretically via computing Lagrangian frequency spectra, and demonstrate the usefulness of our methodology through simulations as well as with real observations from the LatMix deployment of drifters. The outcome of this method is a full Lagrangian decomposition of each drifter trajectory into three components that represent the background, mesoscale, and submesoscale flow.
Reduced Order Models for the Quasi-Geostrophic Equations: A Brief Survey
Authors: Mou Changhong , Wang Zhu , Wells David R. , Xie Xuping , Iliescu Traian
Published: December 2020

Reduced order models (ROMs) are computational models whose dimension is significantly lower than those obtained through classical numerical discretizations (e.g., finite element, finite difference, finite volume, or spectral methods). Thus, ROMs have been used to accelerate numerical simulations of many query problems, e.g., uncertainty quantification, control, and shape optimization. Projection-based ROMs have been particularly successful in the numerical simulation of fluid flows. In this brief survey, we summarize some recent ROM developments for the quasi-geostrophic equations (QGE) (also known as the barotropic vorticity equations), which are a simplified model for geophysical flows in which rotation plays a central role, such as wind-driven ocean circulation in mid-latitude ocean basins. Since the QGE represent a practical compromise between efficient numerical simulations of ocean flows and accurate representations of large scale ocean dynamics, these equations have often been used in the testing of new numerical methods for ocean flows. ROMs have also been tested on the QGE for various settings in order to understand their potential in efficient numerical simulations of ocean flows. In this paper, we survey the ROMs developed for the QGE in order to understand their potential in efficient numerical simulations of more complex ocean flows: We explain how classical numerical methods for the QGE are used to generate the ROM basis functions, we outline the main steps in the construction of projection-based ROMs (with a particular focus on the under-resolved regime, when the closure problem needs to be addressed), we illustrate the ROMs in the numerical simulation of the QGE for various settings, and we present several potential future research avenues in the ROM exploration of the QGE and more complex models of geophysical flows.