bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MLPER: A Machine Learning-Based Prediction Model for Building Earthquake Response using Ambient Vibration Measurements
Authors: Damikoukas Spyros , Lagaros Nikos D.
Published: September 2023

Deep neural networks (DNNs) have gained prominence in addressing regression problems, offering versatile architectural designs that cater to various applications. In the field of earthquake engineering, seismic response prediction is a critical area of study. Simplified models such as single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) and multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) systems have traditionally provided valuable insights into structural behavior, known for their computational efficiency facilitating faster simulations. However, these models have notable limitations in capturing the nuanced nonlinear behavior of structures and the spatial variability of ground motions. This study focuses on leveraging ambient vibration (AV) measurements of buildings, combined with earthquake (EQ) time-history data, to create a predictive model using a neural network (NN) in image format. The primary objective is to predict a specific building's earthquake response accurately. The training dataset consists of 1,197 MDOF 2D shear models, generating a total of 32,319 training samples. To evaluate the performance of the proposed model, termed MLPER (Machine Learning based Prediction of building structures' Earthquake Response), several metrics are employed. These include mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and mean deviation angle (MDA) for comparisons in the time domain. Additionally, we assess magnitude-squared coherence values and phase differences (Δφ) for comparisons in the frequency domain. This study underscores the potential of MLPER as a reliable tool for predicting building earthquake response, addressing the limitations of simplified models. By integrating AV measurements and EQ time-history data into a neural network framework, MLPER offers a promising avenue for enhancing our understanding of structural behavior during seismic events, ultimately contributing to improved earthquake resilience in building design and engineering.
Building a Digital Transformation Maturity Evaluation Model for Construction Enterprises Based on AHP-DEMATEL
Authors: Zhu Hongwei , Wang Liang , Li Chao , Philbin Simon P , Li Hujun , Li Hui , Skitmore Martin
Published: September 2023

With the continuous development of digital transformation and upgrading of Chinese construction enterprises, it is becoming increasingly important to measure their digital level, find the problems in the enterprise transformation process, and identify the key factors of enterprise digital capacity enhancement.
This paper constructs a construction enterprise digital transformation maturity evaluation model from six first-level indicators and 20 second-level indicators, including digital strategy, digital business application, digital technology capability, data capability, digital organization capability, and change management. Digital maturity is divided into five levels: business management, process operation, intelligent construction, intelligent scene application, and industrial ecological collaboration. A detailed process of digital maturity evaluation based on the method of Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP)-Decision Testing and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) is then developed. A questionnaire survey of 25 experts is used to weight the various parameters in the model, which is then demonstrated with an example construction enterprise.
The model comprehensively reflects digital levels under the background of the digital economy. Its application will help understand the advantages and disadvantages enterprises face in their digital transformation to enable targeted measures to improve their digital transformation capabilities and efficiency, enhance their core competitiveness of enterprises, and promote the development of digital transformation in the construction industry.
A Novel Algorithm for Retrieval of Chlorophyll a in Marine Using Deep Learning
Authors: Zeng You , Liang TianLong , Fan Donglin , He Hongchang
Published: September 2023

Chlorophyll-a (Chla) is a crucial pigment in phytoplankton, playing a vital role in determining phytoplankton biomass and water nutrient status. However, in optically complex water bodies, Chla concentration is no longer the primary factor influencing remote sensing spectral reflectance signals, leading to significant errors in traditional Chla concentration estimation methods. With advancements in in-situ measurements, synchronized satellite data, and computer technology, machine learning algorithms have become popular in Chla concentration retrieval. Nevertheless, when using machine learning methods to estimate Chla concentration, abrupt changes in Chla values can disrupt the spatiotemporal smoothness of the retrieval results. Therefore, this study proposes a two-stage approach to enhance the accuracy of Chla concentration estimation in optically complex water bodies. In the first stage, a one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1DCNN) is employed for precise Chla retrieval, and in the second stage, the regression layer of the 1DCNN is replaced with Support Vector Regression (SVR). The research findings are as follows: (1) In the first stage, the performance metrics (R², RMSE, RMLSE, Bias, MAE) of the 1DCNN outperform state-of-the-art algorithms (OCI, SVR, RFR) on the test dataset. (2) After the second stage, the performance further improves, with the metrics achieving values of 0.892, 11.243, 0.052, 1.056, and 1.444, respectively. (3) In mid-to-high latitude regions, the inversion performance of 1DCNN\SVR is superior to other algorithms, exhibiting richer details and higher noise tolerance in nearshore areas. (4) 1DCNN\SVR demonstrates high inversion capabilities in water bodies with medium to high nutrient levels.
Social Aspects in Energy Research & Social Science Journal Publications for 2019-2023. Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Chigarev Boris
Published: September 2023

The article aims to explore social aspects in the area of energy research by using bibliometrics methods and tools. The study is based on the data of Energy Research & Social Science journal publications exported from ScienceDirect database during 2019-2023. Methodologically, the work included clustering of the bibliometric records under consideration. This allowed to identify the main topics of publications and those in which the research of social problems prevails. This stage of the work was carried out using carrot2, an engine for clustering search results. Next, the analysis of publication topics related to social issues research was carried out using VOSviewer — a software tool for visualizing scientific landscapes. The topics of the four clusters obtained at this stage were described by key terms with the maximum total link strength. For the principal ones, a definition was made on the basis of the texts of publications that most fully disclose the meaning of these terms. The 1537 publications in the journal during the period under review deal with many aspects of energy transition research, renewable energy, energy policy, energy justice and energy systems, but only 78 of them are dominated by social issues. The paper reveals the main social issues in the field of energy research: sociology of energy, socio-technical system, community energy, energy democracy, sociology of the future, energy sovereignty, socio-technical imaginary and shows the insufficient attention to this topic, especially to the investment of such research.
Instability of Moving Mass(es): Parameters Leading to Irregular Cases and Associated Implications for Railway Design
Authors: Dimitrovová Zuzana
Published: September 2023

Ballasted railway tracks can be modelled using reduced/simplified models composed of several layers of discrete components. This paper deals with the two-layer model, which is very popular due to its computational efficiency. In order to provide some recommendations for track design, it is necessary to identify which set of parameters leads to some irregular/unexpected behavior. Such irregularity is investigated at three levels, such as: (i) critical velocity of moving constant force; (ii) instability of a single moving mass; (iii) instability of two moving masses. All results are presented in dimensionless form to cover a wide range of real parameters. Irregular cases are identified by sets of parameters leading to them and then general conclusions are drawn. Regarding the method, all results are obtained analytically or semianalytically, where “semi” refers to solving the roots of a given polynomial by predefined numerical procedures in symbolic software. No numerical integration is involved in all results presented. This means that the results are highly accurate and refer to exact values, so any kind of parametric or sensitivity analyses is readily possible.
Improving Effective Solid Waste Management Systems in Ghana: A Comparative Study of the Cities of Karlsruhe, Germany and Navrongo, Ghana
Authors: Anokye Kwame , Muhammad Asaah Sumaila , Agyemang Portia , Amuah Ebenezer Ebo Yahans , Apea Helina Boansi
Published: September 2023

Effective solid waste management is crucial for protecting public health and the environment. Global concentration on finding sustainable methods of handling waste continue to top the list of most governmental-related project checklists. This paper provides a case study on the management of municipal solid waste in the cities of Karlsruhe, Germany and Navrongo, Ghana as developed and developing countries respectively. This study aimed at comparing and drawing lessons from how these two different cities manage their solid waste. The waste management system in Karlsruhe prioritizes waste separation, recycling, and a pay-as-you-throw system has led to an efficient and sustainable waste management system that minimizes waste and protects the environment. Karlshrue's adoption of a continual developmental plan structure focused on integrated WM concepts is credited with safeguarding the long-term viability of waste management in the city. In contrast, Navrongo's waste management system faces several challenges, including inadequate resources and infrastructure, traditional waste disposal practices, and the lack of well-planned waste management strategies. To improve effective solid waste management systems in Ghana, a collaborative approach involving the government, local organizations, and the community is necessary. This can include investing in infrastructure, implementing waste separation and recycling programs, and educating the public on the benefits of sustainable waste management practices. Learning from successful models like Karlsruhe can help accelerate the development of sustainable waste management practices in Ghana, and ultimately protect public health and the environment.
Phase-Matching Gating for Isolated Attosecond Pulse Generation
Authors: Strelkov Vasily , Khokhlova Margarita
Published: September 2023

We investigate the production of an isolated attosecond pulse (IAP) via the phase-matching gating of high-harmonic generation by intense laser pulses. Our study is based on the integration of the propagation equation for the fundamental and generated fields with nonlinear polarisation found via the numerical solution of the time-dependent Schr\"odinger equation. We study the XUV energy as a function of the propagation distance (or the medium density) and find that the onset of the IAP production corresponds to the change from linear to quadratic dependence of this energy on the propagation distance (or density). Finally, we show that the upper limit of the fundamental pulse duration for which the IAP generation is feasible is defined by the temporal spreading of the fundamental pulse during the propagation. This nonlinear spreading is defined by the difference of the group velocities for the neutral and photoionised medium.
Framework for Designing an Organizational Digital Culture for Innovation
Authors: Felizzola Yadira
Published: September 2023

Based on a literature review, a framework for digital organizational culture with a focus on innovation is proposed. This digital organizational culture becomes relevant today since digital transformation requires an appetite for risk and a willingness to undertake, aspects that are strengthened by an environment and atmosphere that motivate individuals to generate new ideas. The proposal begins with a diagnosis of the existing organizational culture, which allows identifying the differences between the components of the current organizational culture and the innovation-oriented digital organizational culture. Through this diagnosis, the gaps that need to be addressed to achieve a digital organizational culture with innovative characteristics are identified. In addition, specific recommendations are proposed to carry out this transformation. In the process, the assumptions underlying the current typology of the company's organizational culture are highlighted. The importance of integrating creativity, risk readiness, and entrepreneurial willingness into the digital organizational culture aimed at innovation is emphasized. These elements are essential to create an environment
Regulation of Ferroptosis in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wei Xiangyun , Li Xiaohe , Hu Shuming , Cheng Jinke , Cai Rong
Published: September 2023

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common lung cancers, which accounts for about 35%-40% of all lung cancer patients. Despite therapeutic advancements in recent years, the overall survival time of the LUAD patients still remain poor, especially KRAS mutant LUAD. Therefore, it is necessary to further explore novel targets and drugs to improve the prognosis of LUAD. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent regulated cell death (RCD）caused by lipid peroxidation, has attracted much attention recently as an alternative target for apoptosis in LUAD therapy. Ferroptosis has been found closely related with LUAD, at its every stage, including initiation, proliferation and progression. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive overview on ferroptosis mechanisms, it’s regulation in LUAD, and application of targeting ferroptosis for LUAD therapy.
A Thermal Calculation Model for Tubular Condensing Heat Exchanger
Authors: Han Lei , Yang Kaixuan , Yang Jiahui , Li Ruiyu , Li Yuhang , Deng Lei , Che Defu
Published: September 2023

The condensing heat exchanger is commonly applied in various heat exchange systems. It can efficiently recover moisture and heat from the flue gas that contains water vapor. However, the convective-condensation heat transfer process is so complicated that no mature thermal calculation model is available. This study develops a thermal calculation model for the widely employed tubular condensing heat exchanger in industry. To characterize the degree of the heat and mass transfer, this study introduces two parameters, namely the sensible and latent heat transfer efficiencies of fin. The thermal calculations are conducted for the condensing heat exchangers reported in the literature to verify the proposed model by comparing it with the experimental data. The results show that the absolute error of the calculated sensible and latent heat transfer efficiencies is 0.0365 and 0.0268, respectively. Under the working conditions in this study, a maximum difference of 5.2 K has been acquired between the measured and calculated values of the outlet temperature. The relative error of the condensate water flowrate is mostly within ±5.0% and ±10.0% under the bare-tube and finned-tube conditions, respectively, with a maximum deviation of 0.7 and 1.4 kg h-1. This study provides a general model for designing and optimizing various tubular condensing heat exchangers accurately.
The Variability of the Conductance Changes Associated with the Change in the Spin State in Molecular Spin Crossover Complexes
Authors: Zaz M. Zaid , Ekanayaka Thilini K , Cheng Ruihua , Dowben Peter A.
Published: September 2023

We examine here the conductance changes associated with the change in spin state in a variety of different structures, using the example of the spin crossover complex [Fe(H2B(pz)2)2(bipy)] (pz= (pyrazol-1-yl)-borate and bipy = 2,2’-bipyridine) and [Fe(Htrz)2(trz)](BF4)] (Htrz = 1H-1,2,4-triazole) thin films . This conductance change is highly variable depending on the mechanism driving the change in spin state, the substrate and the device geometry. Simply stated, the choice of spin crossover complex used to build a device is not the only factor in determining the change in conductance with the change in spin state.
RNA Editing-Dependent and -Independent Roles of ADAR Proteins in Herpesvirus Infection – Hints for Another Layer of Complexity
Authors: Ivanišević Vlatka , Žilić Lidia , Čunko Marina , Fadiga Hana , Munitić Ivana , Jurak Igor
Published: September 2023

A single paragraph of about 200 words maximum. For research articles, abstracts should give a pertinent overview of the work. We strongly encourage authors to use the following style of structured abstracts, but without headings: (1) Background: Place the question addressed in a broad context and highlight the purpose of the study; (2) Methods: briefly describe the main methods or treatments applied; (3) Results: summarize the article’s main findings; (4) Conclusions: indicate the main conclusions or interpretations. The abstract should be an objective representation of the article and it must not contain results that are not presented and substantiated in the main text and should not exaggerate the main conclusions.
Importance of Dyslipidaemia Treatment in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Strikić Dominik , Vujević Andro , Perica Dražen , Leskovar Dunja , Paponja Kristina , Pećin Ivan , Merćep Iveta
Published: September 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common metabolic disease characterised by insulin resistance and elevated blood glucose levels, affecting millions of people worldwide. T2DM patients with dyslipidaemia have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). A complex interplay of risk factors such as hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, obesity, inflammation and oxidative stress favour the development of atherosclerosis, a central mechanism in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. Dyslipidaemia, a hallmark of T2DM, is characterised by elevated triglycerides, decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and the presence of small, dense low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, all of which promote atherosclerosis. In this article, we have attempted to present various treatment strategies that include pharmacological interventions such as statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, fibrates and omega-3 fatty acids. We have also tried to highlight the pivotal role of lifestyle modifications, including physical activity and dietary changes, in improving lipid profiles and overall cardiovascular health in T2DM patients. We have also tried to present the latest clinical guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemia in T2DM patients. In conclusion, the treatment of dyslipidaemia in T2DM patients is of great importance as it lowers lipid particle levels, slows the progression of atherosclerosis and ultimately reduces susceptibility to cardiovascular disease.
A Phenomenological Model for Creep and Creep-fatigue Crack Growth Behavior in Ferritic Steels
Authors: Saxena Ashok
Published: September 2023

A model to rationalize the effects of test temperature and microstructural variables on the creep crack growth (CCG) and creep-fatigue crack growth (CFCG) rates in ferritic steels is described. The model predicts that as the average spacing between grain boundary particles that initiate creep cavities decrease, the CCG and CFCG rates increase. Further, CCG data at several temperatures collapse into a single trend when a temperature compensated CCG rate derived from the model is used. CCG and CFCG behavior measured at different temperatures is used to assess the effects of variables such as differences between basemetal (BM), weldmetal (WM) and the heat-affected zone (HAZ) regions. The model is demonstrated for Grade 22 and Grade 91 steels using data from literature. It is shown that differences between the CCG behavior of Grade 22 steel in new and ex-service conditions are negligible in the BM and WM regions but not in the HAZ region. The CCG behavior of Grade 91 steels can be separated into creep-ductile and creep-brittle regions. The creep-brittle tendency is linked to the presence of excess trace element concentrations in the material chemistry. Significant differences found in the CCG rates between BM and the WM and HAZ regions of Grade 91 steel were explained.
Early Detection and Good Team Collaboration for Preventing Maternal Death Caused by Placenta Accreta Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Yuliantara Eric Edwin , Bachnas Muhammad Adrianes , Anggraini Nutria Widya Purna , Prabowo Wisnu , Nugraha Gagah Baskara Adi , Chasanah Meriska Dewi , Alim Fadel Muhammad S. , Merina Hikmah F.
Published: September 2023

Background: Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is considered one of the most harmful pregnancy conditions, as it is strongly linked with maternal morbidity and mortality. An accurate and early prenatal diagnosis of PAS allows time for a multidisciplinary team to plan the best course of action for delivery management. The aim of this study is to describe placenta accreta spectrum management and outcomes with early detection and a multidisciplinary team approach.

Method: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 167 cases of placenta accreta from 2016 to 2021. Medical records were then reviewed, and data were collected for delivery management and maternal outcome, including estimated amounts of bleeding, urinary tract injury, delivery time, ICU referral, and maternal death.

Result: Delivery management (hysterectomy and conservative management) and maternal bleeding were significantly associated with MAP score (p < 0.05), while urinary tract injury, delivery time, ICU admission, and maternal death were not significantly associated (p > 0.05). 55.1% of patients underwent hysterectomy, and the rest 44.9% underwent conservative surgery. Massive bleeding of more than 2500 mL happened in 54.5% of patients, and the rest 45.5% managed to bleed less than 45.5%. Preterm deliveries accounted for 29.9% of all deliveries, with the remaining 70.1% being term. 5.4% of patients experienced urinary tract injuries. 6.6% of patients were referred to the intensive care unit. The maternal mortality rate is 4.8%.

Conclusion: Early detection of the placenta accreta spectrum, as well as good collaboration among members of a multidisciplinary team from various medical fields, are required to ensure the mother and baby's safety and survival.
The Efffect of Using Diary to Improve Students’ Writing
Authors: Iin Ainun Nissa  , Sabur Ambuy , Forsia Lastry
Published: September 2023

This study aims to determain the effect of using diary as a media to improve writing skill. This study used quantitative methods using quasi-experimental research with non-equivalent control group design. The samples used in this study were 37 students in the experimental class and 38 students in the control class. Data was collected by conducting pre-test and post-test. In this research used non-parametric tests (Wilcoxon) because the data were not normally distributed. Then the result of the hypothesis should be <0.05. Based on the result from the hypothesis were the data analysis showed that the value of Asymp.Sig (2-tailed) was 0.000 <0.05. It can be concluded that the working hypothesis (Ha) is accepted, while the null hypothesis (Ho) is rejected. This means that the use of Using Diary had a significant effect on students' writing skill compared to conventional teaching
The Incorporation of Citizenship Competency in EFL Learning Materials for Senior High School Students
Authors: Maida Fanisa Salma , Dewanti Ratna
Published: September 2023

This study aims at analysing the extent to which citizenship competency was incorporated and describing ways citizenship competency was incorporated in EFL learning materials for senior high school students. A content analysis was used to analyse 53 EFL learning materials from four public senior high school teachers in East Jakarta. The findings show that citizenship competency is incorporated in most learning materials. Three learning materials did not incorporate citizenship competency, indicated from the none fulfilment of the indicators. However, the indicators were fulfilled in other learning materials. All factors of citizenship competency are incorporated with skills as the highest in incorporation (34.2%), followed by citizenship knowledge (33.6%), attitudes and values (32.2%). Citizenship competency is incorporated through the incorporation of the significant topics, opportunities to apply and develop citizenship skills, and opportunities related to citizenship attitudes and values. Since the types and forms of learning materials are varied, citizenship competency is incorporated in varied ways. These findings are expected to aid teachers in choosing and incorporating citizenship competency in their learning materials.
Eighth Graders’ Communication Strategies in English Classroom Activities at SMP Negeri 3 Kalibening
Authors: Purwaningsih Adityas , Darmahusni
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to investigate the eighth graders’ communication strategies in English classroom activities at SMP Negeri 3 Kalibening. This research conducted a qualitative approach with a descriptive method. The observational data were collected by using a video and audio recorder, observational sheet, and triangulated by structured interview. The data analysis procedures consisted of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification by Miles & Huberman’s (1994) framework. The Communication Strategies (CSs) taxonomy proposed by Celce-Murcia et al. (1995) was used as references to identify and classify types of CSs. The analysis revealed that the learners employed 5 types of CSs: avoidance or reduction strategy, achievement or compensatory strategy, stalling or time gaining strategy, self-monitoring strategy, and interactional strategy, with 11 sub-types of those categories in classroom discussion, group discussion, and group presentation activities. The findings also showed that the learners employed CSs to compensate for their linguistics problems and keep the communication going while participating in English classroom activities. This research made a valuable contribution in introducing communication strategies and increasing students' awareness to use English in real-life situations.
The Incorporation of Character-Building Values in Digital Learning Materials for SMP Students
Authors: Hartanto Muhammad Dimas , Agustina Imas Wahyu
Published: September 2023

This study investigated the incorporation of Profil Pelajar Pancasila in digital learning materials for Junior High School students. This study applied the content analysis method, the data of which were learning materials provided on Myenglishstep.com for every level of Junior High School. The data were analyzed by comparing them with 19 indicators which were derived from six dimensions of Profil Pelajar Pancasila. The results showed that 230 data fulfilled all 19 indicators and were incorporated into various forms of learning materials. The highest occurrences (80 data) were found in the fifth dimension which is to think critically (Dimensi Berfikir Kritis) while the lowest (10 data) occurred in global diversity (Dimensi Kebhinekaan Global). In addition, the values of Profil Pelajar Pancasila were mostly incorporated through task instructions (98 data), followed by live worksheets (64 data), videos (34 data), and audios (13 data). This result indicates that the digital learning materials available on the website of Myenglishstep.com are aligned with the character-building values proposed in Profil Pelajar Pancasila, thus, they become worth trying to support English language learning at the Junior High levels in Indonesia.
Exploring Secondary-school EFL Teachers’ Perception and Practices of Formative Assessment
Authors: Sulastini Sri
Published: September 2023

Formative assessment is critical to effective classroom instruction and is widely acknowledged as a positive ‘facilitator’ of student learning and its careful implementation has powerful, positive effects on learning. This implies requirements for teachers to have an appropriate level of language assessment literacy or LAL since the effectiveness of teachers’ practices is much influenced by their perceptions or beliefs and related experiences. This study aims at obtaining better insights into English Foreign Language (EFL) teachers’ perceptions and practices of formative assessment. For this purpose, ninety-two EFL teachers of General and Vocational Secondary Schools in Jakarta and  Bogor areas were involved as subjects of the study. The findings of the study reveal that teachers may not fully comprehend what FA is. This is reflected in the significant inconsistencies in their responses to the given questionnaires and interviews that suggest a misconception of FA. More rigorous study with better methodology is recommended as follow-up actions. In addition, the findings generate an urgent call for EFL teacher education programs to devise relevant professional development programs that can meet the actual needs of preset and inset program participants.
Sensitivity of sediment transport analyses in dam removal applications
Authors: Echevarria-Doyle Waleska , McKay S. , Bailey Susan
Published: September 2023

Dam removal has become a widespread river management practice in the US for a variety of goals including ecosystem restoration, removing aging infrastructure, flood risk management, and recreation. The ability to forecast the sediment impacts of dam removal is critical to evaluating different management alternatives that can minimize adverse consequences for ecosystems and human communities. Tullos et al. (2016) identified seven Common Management Concerns (CMCs) associated with dam removal. Four of these CMCs; degree and rate of reservoir sediment erosion, excessive channel incision upstream of reservoirs, downstream sediment aggradation, and elevated downstream turbidity are associated with stored sediment release and changing fluvial hydraulics. There are a range of existing qualitative and quantitative tools developed to infer or quantify geomorphic implications of disturbances like these in river environments (McKay et al. 2019). This study investigated how a one-dimensional (1D) sediment transport model can inform these four CMCs, develop an approach for assessing sediment transport model sensitivity in the context of the Simkins Dam removal, and use sensitivity analyses to identify key uncertainties, which can inform data collection and model building for other dam removal projects. For the selected case study, model outputs including the mean effective invert change (MEIC) and eroded sediment volume from reservoir were highly sensitive to the variation of the reservoir sediment gradation and sorting method selection. These model outputs also showed some sensitivity to the selected transport functions. Erosion method sensitivity using the channel evolution method will vary depending on side slope and channel parameter selection.
Low-Salinity Polymer Flood for Enhanced Oil Recovery in Low-Permeability Carbonates
Authors: Song Haofeng , Ghosh Pinaki , Bowers Annalise , Niu Fangya , Mohanty Kishore
Published: September 2023

Low-salinity waterflooding and brine ion modification, in general, can improve displacement efficiency in initially oil-wet reservoirs if it can alter wettability, but it is often a slow process. Polymer flooding usually does not improve displacement efficiency (without significant viscoelasticity) but enhances sweep efficiency. The main objective of this work is to study the synergy between ion modification and polymer flooding for low-permeability carbonate rocks. High-salinity high-temperature reservoirs often need a sulfonated polymer for thermal stability in the high-salinity brine, but a low-salinity water (LSW) injection at that temperature can use a common hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) polymer. The second objective of this study is to compare the performance of these two polymer injections. With the proper preparation method, two polymers (HPAM and AN132) with the molecular weight of approximately 6 MDa were successfully injected into the oil-aged carbonate rocks with the absolute permeability of 10–20 md. A low-salinity polymer (LSP) flood was carried out using HPAM prepared in diluted seawater (with added sulfate concentrations). High-salinity polymer (HSP) floods increased the oil recovery in tight cores by 4–5% original oil in place (OOIP) due to higher pressure gradient. Low-salinity corefloods (with added sulfate ions) produced little incremental oil in a few pore volumes (PVs) of injection, but the combination of sulfated low-salinity brine and polymer improved the oil recovery by 8–10% OOIP in less than 1.5 PV. It is shown for the first time that the low-salinity brine with additional sulfate and negatively charged HPAM polymer changed the wettability of the originally oil-wet carbonate rock to water-wet. The synergy between polymer and wettability alteration can recover oil from bypassed pores and shorten the time for oil recovery.
New Protease Produced by Solid State Fermentation of Penicillium camemberti 0798400075 Using Coffee Hull Applied in Milk Coagulation
Authors: Melo Amanda Moreira de Oliveira , Silva Tatielle Pereira , Tavares Iasnaia Maria de Carvalho , Silva Fabiane Neves , Bilal Muhammad , Salay Luiz Carlos , Franco Marcelo , De Oliveira Julieta Rangel
Published: September 2023

The milk clotting proteases have the specificity of hydrolyzing the k-casein fraction of milk casein micelles. In this study, the biochemical characterization and coagulation potential of a new milk coagulant derived from the enzymatic extract of Penicillium camemberti 0798400075 through solid state fermentation (SSF) using coffee husks are investigated. The caseinase produced showed low proteolytic activity (0.076 U/mL) and high coagulant activity (8 ACL/mL and 10 ACL/mL) for powdered and whole UHT milk, respectively, and reached optimal temperature at 50 ºC and optimal pH at 7, remained with 80% of its activity at 40 ºC, showed greater affinity for acidic conditions, containing more than 60% of its activity at pH 5.0 and exhibited an increase in its activity in the presence of Mg2+ ions. The new coagulant showed potential to be used as a substitute for rennet in the coagulation process of milk caseins.
Synthesis, characterization and application of ferrous iron-embedded schwertmannite for Cr(VI) reduction-adsorption from aqueous solutions
Authors: Zhang Zhuo , Song Ziwen , Luo Canyu , Zhao Huafu , Yang Likun , Jia Houbo , Huang Haochong , Zhao Xiaohui
Published: September 2023

Previous studies have demonstrated that schwertmannite (Sch) exhibits good adsorption performance for Cr(VI). In order to further enhance the ability to remove Cr(VI), this study prepared a novel composite (Fe(II)@Sch) by embedding ferrous iron (Fe(II)) on Sch. The adsorption performance of Cr(VI) on Fe(II)@Sch was investigated by batch adsorption experiments, and a possible removal mechanism was proposed through characterization analysis. The results showed that the optimal Fe/Sch ratio for Fe(II)@Sch preparation was 120 mmol/g. Fe(II)@Sch enabled efficient and rapid adsorption of Cr(VI). The maximum Cr(VI) adsorption capacity of Fe(II)@Sch was 4.17 mmol/g at pH 6.0, which was 69% higher when compared to Sch, and 81% of the maximum adsorption could be achieved within 1 min. The embedding of Fe(II) led to a decrease in the particle size and an increase in the specific surface area (SSA) of Sch, which could be considered favorable for adsorption. After four repeated cycles 93.3% of the original Cr(VI) adsorption capacity was still maintained. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis showed that the interaction between Fe(II)@Sch and Cr(VI) followed an adsorption-reduction mechanism. The results demonstrated that Fe(II)@Sch could be used as an effective material for removing Cr(VI) from wastewater.
Resistance evaluation of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) cultivars to Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri
Authors: Nanami Danielle Sayuri Yoshida , Bissoli Gabriela , Souza Nayara Nascimento , Rosseto Priscila , Silva-Reis Cristiane Mendes da , Zanutto Carlos Alexandre , Bock Clive Howard , Nunes William Mário de Carvalho
Published: September 2023

Citrus canker, caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri, is responsible for significant economic losses of citrus in Brazil and elsewhere. The disease occurs in all regions of commercial production of sweet orange (C. sinensis L. Osbeck). Compared to chemical control, deploying canker-resistant cultivars is a viable and economical alternative for management of the disease. The objectives of this study were to compare the resistance to citrus canker of 14 genotypes of sweet orange, and to verify the levels of various enzymes involved in the canker resistance response, specifically peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase. The 14 genotypes included were Hamlin, Vermelha, Pera EEL, Pera IAC, Pera Bianchi/CC, Pera Ipiguá, Pera IAC 2000/1, Pera Ovale Siracusa, Pera Ovale, Pera IAC 2000/2, Pera M5, Pera Arapongas, Pera 58 and Pera 59. The varieties were evaluated under greenhouse conditions, through inoculation of leaves with X. citri subsp. citri, strain Xcc 306. After inoculation, measurements of lesion diameter and biochemical analyses were performed. Significant differences in resistance to X. citri subsp. citri between the citrus genotypes were observed, with cultivars Pera IAC and Pera EEL having significantly or numerically the smallest diameter canker lesions. Cultivar Pera IAC showed elevated levels of peroxidase, catalase and superoxide dismutase, enzymes known to be involved in resistance response to pathogen invasion. Cultivars with a strong resistance response to infection, and that produce smaller lesions are likely good candidates for commercial production or for use in breeding programs.
Electric Vehicle Power System in Intelligent Manufacturing Based on Soft Computing Optimization
Authors: Zhao Shangyi , Guo Ming
Published: September 2023

Soft computing technology has attracted extensive attention in the fields of computer engineering and automatic control because it can deal with uncertainties, fuzziness and complex practical problems. In order to realize the cooperative optimization of electric vehicle's dynamic performance and economic performance, this paper adopts Genetic Algorithm (GA) in soft computing technology. The advantage of soft computing technology lies in its adaptability to uncertainty, fuzziness and complex practical problems, which makes GA an effective tool to solve complex optimization problems. Firstly, the power system structure and energy management strategy of electric vehicles are investigated and analyzed. Then, the improved non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) is selected to optimize the parameters of electric vehicles because of its simple operation and high optimization accuracy. Then, NSGA-II is used to construct the power and energy configuration of electric vehicles, with power performance and economic performance as the main optimization objectives. Finally, in order to achieve the optimization goal, the relevant variables are selected, and the optimization objective function and constraint conditions are established, and the model is simulated and evaluated. The results show that the acceleration time of the optimized electric vehicle is significantly reduced, the dynamic performance is improved by more than 7%, and the power loss is reduced by 5%. In addition, compared with the current multi-objective optimization model, this model enables electric vehicles to travel longer distances under the same power. These findings provide valuable reference for the performance improvement of electric vehicles in intelligent manufacturing.
Head to head comparison of diagnostic performance of three non-mydriatic cameras for Diabetic Retinopathy Screening with Artificial Intelligence
Authors: dogan mehmet , BİLGİN AHMET BURAK , Sarı Ramazan , Bulut Mehmet , Akar Yusuf , Aydemir Mustafa
Published: September 2023

Background
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting people with diabetes. The timely diagnosis and treatment of DR are essential in preventing vision loss. Non-mydriatic fundus cameras and artificial intelligence (AI) software have been shown to improve DR screening efficiency. However, few studies have compared the diagnostic performance of different non-mydriatic cameras and AI software.
Methods
This clinical study was conducted at the Endocrinology clinic of Akdeniz University with 900 diabetes patients who had not been diagnosed with DR but had diabetes already diagnosed. Fundus images of each patient were taken using three non-mydriatic fundus cameras without dilation, and EyeCheckup AI software was used to diagnose mtmDR, vtDR, and CSDME. The patients underwent dilation and 4-wide field fundus photography, and three retina specialists graded the images according to the Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment Preferred Practice Patterns of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. The study was pre-registered on clinicaltrials.gov with the ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04805541.
Results
The Canon CR2 camera had an mtmDR diagnosis sensitivity and Specificity of 95.65% / 95.92%, the Topcon NW400 had 95.19% / 96.46%, and the Optomed Aurora had 90.48% / 97.21%. For vtDR, the Canon CR2 had a sensitivity and Specificity of 96.00% / 96.34%, the Topcon NW400 had 98.52% / 95.93%, and the Optomed Aurora had 95.12% / 98.82%. For CSDME, the Canon CR2 had a sensitivity and Specificity of 95.83% / 96.83%, the Topcon NW400 had 98.50% / 96.52%, and the Optomed Aurora had 94.93% / 98.95%.
Conclusion
These results demonstrate the potential of non-mydriatic fundus cameras and EyeCheckup software for diagnosing diabetic retinopathy. Each camera brand had varying degrees of sensitivity and Specificity. The Canon CR2 had the highest sensitivity and Specificity for mtmDR and vtDR, whereas the Topcon NW400 had the highest sensitivity and Specificity for CSDME. These findings suggest that clinicians should consider camera brand when selecting a screening tool for DR. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and investigate other factors affecting DR screening efficiency.
The kidney histopathological spectrum of patients with kidney injury following Snakebite Envenomation in India: Scoping Review of Five Decades
Authors: Meena Priti , Bhargava Vinant , Gupta Pallav , Panda Sandip , Bhaumik Soumyadeep
Published: September 2023

Introduction:Snakebite is a public health problem leading to about 55,000 deaths every year in India. Kidney injury subsequent to snakebite envenomation is common ( reported prevalence is up to 32%). The current study aims to elucidate the spectrum of kidney histopathology in acute kidney injury (AKI) cases followed by snake bites.Methods:We searched seven electronic database studies to identify studies describing the histopathological findings in the kidney with snakebite envenomation. Two reviewers independently conducted titles and abstract screening as well as full-text evaluation for the final inclusion decision. Data were extracted as per a standardized form and conducted narrative synthesis. Studies done exclusively on autopsy findings, in vitro studies, and case reports were excluded.Results:We retrieved 1810 studies and finally included 28 studies which met the eligibility criteria in the analysis. Most studies were single-centre and the majority were cross-sectional. Overall we included a total of 534 renal biopsies. Russell's viper bite was the commonest cause related to AKI. Acute tubular necrosis was the most common finding followed by acute interstitial nephritis, acute cortical necrosis, and thrombotic microangiopathy. Vasculitis changes in vessels were rarely reported. The clinical presentation and prognosis of the patients were directly proportional to the severity of the renal histopathological lesion.Conclusion:This analysis supports the notion that renal biopsies are of utmost importance to guide prognosis and increase our knowledge about post- snake bite AKI pathophysiology
Dysregulation of extracellular matrix and Lysyl Oxidase in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Type IV skin fibroblasts
Authors: Foehr Reece , Anderson Keith , Dombrowski Owen , Foehr Anna , Foehr Erik
Published: September 2023

Background
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome Type IV (aka Vascular Ehlers Danlos, or vEDS) is a dominantly inherited mutation in the Collagen 3A1 gene (COL3A1). The disease is characterized by tissue friability and age-related susceptibility to arterial aneurysm, dissection and rupture as well as uterine and bowl tares. These clinical manifestations result in major surgical intervention and decreased life expectancy. Understanding how mutations in COL3A1 impact the structure and function of the extracellular matrix is important to managing the disease and finding treatments.
Results
Skin fibroblasts from vEDS subjects and normal individuals were cultured and studied. Proteomics analysis identified dozens of upregulated proteins related to extracellular matrix dysregulation that is characteristic of fibrosis. Gene expression libraries from cultured primary fibroblasts were screened for messenger RNA (mRNA) markers of ECM degradation. The proteomics and targeted gene expression array results were largely consistent with dysregulation of the extracellular matrix in vEDS. The data show upregulation of multiple Collagen proteins and genes, other ECM components, and enzymes related to ECM processing and turn-over. vEDS fibroblasts expressed significantly more cross linked C-Telopeptide of Collagen III (CTXIII) than normal fibroblasts, indicative of Collagen III degradation and turn-over. Further, the expression and activity of Lysyl Oxidase (LOX), an enzyme that initiates covalent cross-linking of soluble collagen and elastin into protease resistant fibers, is elevated in vEDS fibroblasts compared to normal fibroblasts.
Conclusion
Together, these findings suggest dysregulated ECM deposition and processing, reminiscent of a state of fibrosis. Therapeutics that target the dysregulated ECM proteins or help replace damaged tissue may improve clinical outcomes.