bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Timing of the Maternal Recognition of Pregnancy Is Specific to Individual Mares
Authors: Newcombe John R. , Cuervo-Arango Juan , Wilsher Sandra
Published: May 2023

The present experiment aimed at determining whether the timing of the maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) was specific to individual mares by determining when luteostasis, a failure to return to oestrus, reliably occurred in individuals following embryo reduction. Singleton (n = 150) and synchronous twin pregnancies (n = 9) were reduced in 10 individuals (5–29 reductions/mare) at pre-determined time points within days 10 (n = 20), 11 (n = 65), 12 (n = 47), 13 (n = 12) or 14 (n = 15) of pregnancy. Prior to embryo reduction, the vesicle diameter was measured in 71% (106/150) of the singleton pregnancies. The interovulatory interval (IOI) was recorded on 78 occasions in seven of the mares in either non-pregnant cycles (n = 37) or those in which luteolysis followed embryo reduction (n = 41). The earliest time post-ovulation at which the embryo reduction resulted in luteostasis in an individual was 252 h (mid-Day 10). Consistency in luteostasis following embryo reduction showed individual variation between mares (272–344 h). Binary logistic regression analysis showed an individual mare effect (p < 0.001) and an effect of the interval post-ovulation at which embryo reduction was undertaken (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant effect of vesicle diameter at the time of embryo reduction (p = 0.099), nor a singleton or twin pregnancy (p = 0.993), on the dependent of luteolysis or luteostasis. The median IOI between individual mares varied significantly (p < 0.05) but was not correlated to the timing of MRP. The timing of MRP varied between the mares but was repeatable in each individual. The factors and mechanisms underlying the individuality in the timing of MRP were not determined and warrant further study.
Relationship between Milk Protein Polymorphism and Selected Cows’ Reproductive Indices
Authors: Czerniawska-Piątkowska Ewa , Cioch-Szklarz Barbara , Kowalczyk Alicja , Wrzecińska Marcjanna , Wójcik Jerzy , Kordan Władysław , Araujo Jose Pedro , Cerqueira Joaquim L. , Kossakowski Kamil , Cwynar Przemysław , Sablik Piotr
Published: May 2023

This research sought to determine the effect of selected milk protein polymorphisms on the reproduction parameters of 598 black and white Polish Holstein–Friesian cattle. The analyzed genes were kappa-casein (CSN3) and beta-lactoglobulin (BLG). The following reproductive indexes were selected: the age at first calving, the interpregnancy period, the calving interval, and the insemination index. The influence of the identified genotypes on the course of parturition in cows was also analyzed. Source data were collected for each cow from the beginning of the herd life and reproduction to its culling from the herd or the end of its third lactation. Data on the age at first calving, the amount of semen portions for artificial insemination (insemination index), the interpregnancy period, and the calving interval for each cow were also collected. A contingency analysis was performed through contingency tables using a Pearson’s chi-squared test for each CSN3 and BLG genotype. The results show that the BB genotype of the kappa-casein gene was associated with the most favorable values of reproductive indicators. In the case of the calving interval, the values were significantly more favorable than those of other genotypes (p ≤ 0.05). No effect of beta-lactoglobulin polymorphism on the analyzed reproductive indices was observed. On the other hand, in the case of the interpregnancy period, significant statistical differences were obtained between the AA and BB genotypes. The analyzed kappa-casein and beta-lactoglobulin genotypes did not significantly influence the course of parturition in cows. To conclude, the genotype polymorphism BB CSN3 is the most favorable for the performance of the cows in the examined herd.
Influence of Dynamic and Thermal Effects of Asian Topography on Tropical Cyclone Activity as Simulated in a Global Climate Model
Authors: Li Jinxiao
Published: May 2023

Asian topography plays a significant role in regional and global weather and climate change. Based on the dataset of climate system model named CAS FGOALS-f3 participated in Global monsoons Model Inter-comparison (GMMIP), the MIP endorsement of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6), the role of Asian topography to the formation and movement of tropical cyclones (TCs) are discussed in this study. This study provides the first comparative analysis of the dynamic and thermal effects of Asian topography on the regional and global activity of TCs. The results indicate that the Asian topography promotes the generation and development of TCs, especially in the Northwest Pacific (WNP). The contribution of the Asian topography to the number of TCs reached about 50% in WNP. It is worth noting that there are still positive biases of TC track density in the experiment named “AMIP-NS,” which means the thermal effect of Asian topography is also essential for TC formation and development in WNP, which has not received much attention before. Besides, the possible reasons for the modulation of TC activity are given from two aspects: (1) The existence of Asian topography has changed the large-scale factors related to TC activities such as warm core, sea-level pressure, genesis potential index (GPI), which are beneficial to the generation and movement of TC. (2) Asian topography promotes the spread of Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO), which is also beneficial to the generation and movement of TC. It is worthwhile to investigate further the mechanisms by which Asian topography affects the activity of TCs.
Hand Gesture Recognition Using Automatic Feature Extraction and Deep Learning Algorithms with Memory
Authors: Nogales Rubén E. , Benalcázar Marco E.
Published: May 2023

Gesture recognition is widely used to express emotions or to communicate with other people or machines. Hand gesture recognition is a problem of great interest to researchers because it is a high-dimensional pattern recognition problem. The high dimensionality of the problem is directly related to the performance of machine learning models. The dimensionality problem can be addressed through feature selection and feature extraction. In this sense, the evaluation of a model with manual feature extraction and automatic feature extraction was proposed. The manual feature extraction was performed using the statistical functions of central tendency, while the automatic extraction was performed by means of a CNN and BiLSTM. These features were also evaluated in classifiers such as Softmax, ANN, and SVM. The best-performing model was the combination of BiLSTM and ANN (BiLSTM-ANN), with an accuracy of 99.9912%.
Exploring Sex Differences of Beta-Blockers in the Treatment of Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wilmes Nick , van Luik Eveline M. , Vaes Esmée W. P. , Vesseur Maud A. M. , Laven Sophie A. J. S. , Mohseni-Alsalhi Zenab , Meijs Daniek A. M. , Dikovec Cédric J. R. , de Haas Sander , Spaanderman Marc E. A. , Ghossein-Doha Chahinda
Published: May 2023

Aims: In the prevention of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, early recognition and adequate treatment of hypertension are of leading importance. However, the efficacy of antihypertensives may be depending on sex disparities. Our objective was to evaluate and quantify the sex-diverse effects of beta-blockers (BB) on hypertension and cardiac function. We focussed on comparing hypertensive female versus male individuals. Methods and results: A systematic search was performed for studies on BBs from inception to May 2020. A total of 66 studies were included that contained baseline and follow up measurements on blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and cardiac function. Data also had to be stratified for sex. Mean differences were calculated using a random-effects model. In females as compared to males, BB treatment decreased systolic BP 11.1 mmHg (95% CI, −14.5; −7.8) vs. 11.1 mmHg (95% CI, −14.0; −8.2), diastolic BP 8.0 mmHg (95% CI, −10.6; −5.3) vs. 8.0 mmHg (95% CI, −10.1; −6.0), and HR 10.8 beats per minute (bpm) (95% CI, −17.4; −4.2) vs. 9.8 bpm (95% CI, −11.1; −8.4)), respectively, in both sexes’ absolute and relative changes comparably. Left ventricular ejection fraction increased only in males (3.7% (95% CI, 0.6; 6.9)). Changes in left ventricular mass and cardiac output (CO) were only reported in males and changed −20.6 g (95% CI, −56.3; 15.1) and −0.1 L (95% CI, −0.5; 0.2), respectively. Conclusions: BBs comparably lowered BP and HR in both sexes. The lack of change in CO in males suggests that the reduction in BP is primarily due to a decrease in vascular resistance. Furthermore, females were underrepresented compared to males. We recommend that future research should include more females and sex-stratified data when researching the treatment effects of antihypertensives.
Matrix Metalloproteinases in Oral Health—Special Attention on MMP-8
Authors: Atanasova Tsvetelina , Stankova Teodora , Bivolarska Anelia , Vlaykova Tatyana
Published: May 2023

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a large family of Ca2+ and Zn2+ dependent proteolytic enzymes, able to cleave the various components of the extracellular matrix (ECM), as well as a range of other regulatory molecules. Several reports have proven the important role of both MMPs and their endogenous inhibitors, TIPMs, in oral health, the initial development of the tooth, and during enamel maturation. In this mini-review, we aim to summarize the literature information about the functions of MMPs, paying more attention to MMP-8 (collagenase-2 or neutrophil collagenase) in the development and progression of periodontitis, peri-implantitis, and carious lesions. We also emphasize the role of particular gene variants in MMP8 as predisposing factors for some oral diseases.
Aptamer-Based Point-of-Care Devices: Emerging Technologies and Integration of Computational Methods
Authors: Aslan Yusuf , Atabay Maryam , Chowdhury Hussain Kawsar , Göktürk Ilgım , Saylan Yeşeren , Inci Fatih
Published: May 2023

Recent innovations in point-of-care (POC) diagnostic technologies have paved a critical road for the improved application of biomedicine through the deployment of accurate and affordable programs into resource-scarce settings. The utilization of antibodies as a bio-recognition element in POC devices is currently limited due to obstacles associated with cost and production, impeding its widespread adoption. One promising alternative, on the other hand, is aptamer integration, i.e., short sequences of single-stranded DNA and RNA structures. The advantageous properties of these molecules are as follows: small molecular size, amenability to chemical modification, low- or nonimmunogenic characteristics, and their reproducibility within a short generation time. The utilization of these aforementioned features is critical in developing sensitive and portable POC systems. Furthermore, the deficiencies related to past experimental efforts to improve biosensor schematics, including the design of biorecognition elements, can be tackled with the integration of computational tools. These complementary tools enable the prediction of the reliability and functionality of the molecular structure of aptamers. In this review, we have overviewed the usage of aptamers in the development of novel and portable POC devices, in addition to highlighting the insights that simulations and other computational methods can provide into the use of aptamer modeling for POC integration.
Preclinical Models of Adrenocortical Cancer
Authors: Sedlack Andrew J. H. , Hatfield Samual J. , Kumar Suresh , Arakawa Yasuhiro , Roper Nitin , Sun Nai-Yun , Nilubol Naris , Kiseljak-Vassiliades Katja , Hoang Chuong D. , Bergsland Emily K. , Hernandez Jonathan M. , Pommier Yves , del Rivero Jaydira
Published: May 2023

Adrenocortical cancer is an aggressive endocrine malignancy with an incidence of 0.72 to 1.02 per million people/year, and a very poor prognosis with a five-year survival rate of 22%. As an orphan disease, clinical data are scarce, meaning that drug development and mechanistic research depend especially on preclinical models. While a single human ACC cell line was available for the last three decades, over the last five years, many new in vitro and in vivo preclinical models have been generated. Herein, we review both in vitro (cell lines, spheroids, and organoids) and in vivo (xenograft and genetically engineered mouse) models. Striking leaps have been made in terms of the preclinical models of ACC, and there are now several modern models available publicly and in repositories for research in this area.
Combination of High-Resolution Structures for the B Cell Receptor and Co-Receptors Provides an Understanding of Their Interactions with Therapeutic Antibodies
Authors: Bhattacharyya Puja , Christopherson Richard I. , Skarratt Kristen K. , Chen Jake Z. , Balle Thomas , Fuller Stephen J.
Published: May 2023

B cells are central to the adaptive immune response, providing long lasting immunity after infection. B cell activation is mediated by a cell surface B cell receptor (BCR) following recognition of an antigen. BCR signaling is modulated by several co-receptors including CD22 and a complex that contains CD19 and CD81. Aberrant signaling through the BCR and co-receptors promotes the pathogenesis of several B cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases. Treatment of these diseases has been revolutionized by the development of monoclonal antibodies that bind to B cell surface antigens, including the BCR and its co-receptors. However, malignant B cells can escape targeting by several mechanisms and until recently, rational design of antibodies has been limited by the lack of high-resolution structures of the BCR and its co-receptors. Herein we review recently determined cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and crystal structures of the BCR, CD22, CD19 and CD81 molecules. These structures provide further understanding of the mechanisms of current antibody therapies and provide scaffolds for development of engineered antibodies for treatment of B cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases.
The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health: Accuracy in Aquatic Activities Reports among Children with Developmental Delay
Authors: Hadar-Frumer Merav , Ten Napel Huib , Yuste-Sánchez Maria José , Rodríguez-Costa Isabel
Published: May 2023

Functioning, as described in the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), increasingly raises interest in the world of child rehabilitation, especially because its application empowers patients and parents by not putting the emphasis on disability in terms of the medical diagnosis but on the person’s lived experience and the level of functioning that might be achieved. However, this requires the correct understanding and application of the ICF framework to overcome differences in the often locally used models or the understanding of disability, including mental aspects. To evaluate the level of accurate use and understanding of the ICF, a survey was performed on studies of aquatic activities in children aged 6–12 with developmental delay published between the years 2010 and 2020. In the evaluation, 92 articles were found that matched the initial keywords (aquatic activities and children with developmental delay). Surprisingly, 81 articles were excluded for not referring to the ICF model at all. The evaluation was performed by methodological critical reading according to the ICF reporting criteria. The conclusion of this review is that despite the rising awareness in the field of AA, the ICF is used inaccurately and often not according to the model’s biopsychosocial principles. For the ICF to become a guiding tool in evaluations and goal-setting for aquatic activity, the level of knowledge and understanding of the framework and language needs to be increased via curricula and studies on the effect of interventions on children with developmental delay. Even more so, the level of understanding on how to apply functioning among instructors and researchers working in the aquatic environment needs to be increased.
Association between being Overweight in Young Childhood and during School Age and Puberty
Authors: Shinoda Genki , Nagaoka Yudai , Ueno Fumihiko , Kurokawa Naoyuki , Takahashi Ippei , Onuma Tomomi , Noda Aoi , Murakami Keiko , Ishikuro Mami , Obara Taku , Metoki Hirohito , Sugawara Junichi , Kuriyama Shinichi
Published: May 2023

To examine whether body type at birth, body weight, and obesity in early childhood are associated with overweight/obesity during school age and puberty. Data from maternal and child health handbooks, baby health checkup information, and school physical examination information of participants at birth and three-generation cohort studies were linked. Association between body type and body weight at different time intervals (at birth and at 1.5, 3.5, 6, 11, and 14 years of age) were comprehensively analyzed using a multivariate regression model adjusted for gender, maternal age at childbirth, maternal parity, and maternal body mass index, and drinking and smoking statuses at pregnancy confirmation. Children who are overweight in young childhood had a greater risk of being overweight. Particularly, overweight at one year of age during checkup was associated with overweight at 3.5 years (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 13.42; 95% confidence interval (CI), 4.46–45.42), 6 years (aOR, 6.94; 95% CI, 1.64–33.46), and 11 years (aOR, 5.22; 95% CI, 1.25–24.79) of age. Therefore, being overweight in young childhood could increase the risk of being overweight and obese during school age and puberty. Early intervention in young childhood may be warranted to prevent obesity during school age and puberty.
Predictor Factors for Chronicity in Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura in Children
Authors: Rosu Vasile Eduard , Roșu Solange Tamara , Ivanov Anca Viorica , Starcea Iuliana Magdalena , Streanga Violeta , Miron Ingrith Crenguta , Mocanu Adriana , Lupu Ancuta , Lupu Vasile Valeriu , Gavrilovici Cristina
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an acute autoimmune blood disorder that is the main cause of thrombocytopenia in children. It is characterized by a decrease in platelets below 100 × 109/L, and limited evolution with severe complications such as intracranial hemorrhage. The chronic form is defined by the persistence of thrombocytopenia more than 12 months after diagnosis. (2) Methods: We performed a retrospective study over a period of 10 years (1 January 2011–31 December 2020) at the Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children “Sf. Maria”, Iasi. The aim of the study was to describe the clinical characteristics and to determine the prognostic factors in immune thrombocytopenia in children. (3) Results: In this study we included 271 children with ITP, comprising 123 females (45.4%) and 148 males (54.6%). The remission rate was higher in males, being 68.9% compared to 56.1% in females. Children with ITP under 9 years of age had a higher remission rate. Children with a platelet count > 10 × 109/L at diagnosis had a higher likelihood-of-remission rate compared to patients who presented initial platelet count below this value. (4) Conclusions: The risk factors highly suggestive for chronicity are: age at diagnosis, female sex, and the number of platelets at the onset of the disease.
Quantification of the Number of Steps in a School Recess by Means of Smart Bands: Proposal of Referential Values for Children and Adolescents
Authors: Sulla-Torres Jose , Vidal-Espinoza Rubén , Avendaño Llanque Christopher , Calla Gamboa Alexander , Zúñiga Carnero Manuel , Cossio-Bolaños Marco , Gomez-Campos Rossana
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Regular physical activity has multiple benefits. Therefore, school recess is a key tool to provide opportunities for schoolchildren to engage in extracurricular physical activity, have fun, play and interact with their peers. The aim is to provide reference data to quantify the number of steps that children and adolescents perform in a school recess using smart bands according to age range and sex. (2) Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in 494 schoolchildren aged 6 to 17 years (292 males and 202 females). Weight, standing height and waist circumference (WC) were evaluated. The body mass index (BMI) was calculated. The quantification of the number of steps during school recess was performed using a smart band. (3) Results: Percentiles were constructed for the number of steps (number of steps/recess). The cut-off points considered were p75 (above average). The median values in both sexes decreased as the age range increased. Youth who walked fewer steps during recess (<p25: below average) had elevated BMI and WC values relative to those who walked within average and above average. (4) Conclusion: The number of steps taken by schoolchildren during school recess decreases drastically with advancing age. The proposed reference values can be used to categorize schoolchildren according to the number of steps taken and to compare them among their peers. The results suggest their use and application in schools as a way of achieving the minimum physical activity recommendations.
In Silico Interactome of a Room-Temperature Ferroelectric Nematic Material
Authors: Mandle Richard J.
Published: May 2023

The ferroelectric nematic (NF) phase, characterised by the combination of orientational and polar order, offers unique properties that are challenging to replicate in other systems. Understanding the molecular structure requirements for generating the NF phase is crucial for the design of new materials with enhanced properties. This study investigates UUQU-4-N, a room-temperature NF material, using fully atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. UUQU-4-N does not spontaneously form an apolar nematic phase in silico, but exhibits a stable polar nematic configuration akin to the NF phase. The polar order remains significant and near saturation throughout the simulations. The study also examines the cylindrical pair correlation functions, providing insights into the preferred pairing modes and intermolecular interactions which we can then attribute to specific molecular features. We then simulate structural variants of UUQU-4-N, highlighting the potential for developing further examples of near-room-temperature ferroelectric nematic materials via the manipulation of the fluorination pattern, variations in terminal chain length, and replacement of the difluoromethyleneoxy linker.
Novel Tools for Diagnosis and Monitoring of AML
Authors: Guijarro Francesca , Garrote Marta , Villamor Neus , Colomer Dolors , Esteve Jordi , López-Guerra Mónica
Published: May 2023

In recent years, major advances in the understanding of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) pathogenesis, together with technological progress, have led us into a new era in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with AML. A combination of immunophenotyping, cytogenetic and molecular studies are required for AML diagnosis, including the use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) gene panels to screen all genetic alterations with diagnostic, prognostic and/or therapeutic value. Regarding AML monitoring, multiparametric flow cytometry and quantitative PCR/RT-PCR are currently the most implemented methodologies for measurable residual disease (MRD) evaluation. Given the limitations of these techniques, there is an urgent need to incorporate new tools for MRD monitoring, such as NGS and digital PCR. This review aims to provide an overview of the different technologies used for AML diagnosis and MRD monitoring and to highlight the limitations and challenges of current versus emerging tools.
DNA Barcoding of Pygmy Hoppers—The First Comprehensive Overview of the BOLD Systems’ Data Shows Promise for Species Identification
Authors: Kasalo Niko , Skejo Josip , Husemann Martin
Published: May 2023

The COI gene is widely used as a DNA barcode in animals that can assist in the identification of species. One of the widely used aggregators of DNA barcodes is the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD Systems), which contains around 2500 sequences of Tetrigidae, an understudied orthopteran family with unresolved taxonomy and species that are difficult to identify. In this paper, we provide a summary of the metadata provided with the COI sequences and present a phylogenetic analysis of photographically vouchered sequences using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian analysis. We found that (1) the subfamily Tetriginae is disproportionately represented in the dataset, (2) most of the records are not identified beyond the family level, (3) most regions, except for Costa Rica, are undersampled, (4) most of the sequences do not have photographic vouchers, and (5) the taxonomic backbone of BOLD is out of date. The phylogenetic analysis showed that the clusters of COI barcodes mostly correspond to species, but some clusters remain ambiguous. The deeper nodes in the phylogenetic trees are not well-supported, indicating that this gene has a very weak phylogenetic signal beyond the specific level.
Crown Width Extraction of Metasequoia glyptostroboides Using Improved YOLOv7 Based on UAV Images
Authors: Dong Chen , Cai Chongyuan , Chen Sheng , Xu Hao , Yang Laibang , Ji Jingyong , Huang Siqi , Hung I-Kuai , Weng Yuhui , Lou Xiongwei
Published: May 2023

With the progress of computer vision and the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), UAVs have been widely used in forest resource investigation and tree feature extraction. In the field of crown width measurement, the use of traditional manual measurement methods is time-consuming and costly and affects factors such as terrain and weather. Although the crown width extraction method based on the segmentation of UAV images that have recently risen in popularity extracts a large amount of information, it consumes long amounts of time for dataset establishment and segmentation. This paper proposes an improved YOLOv7 model designed to precisely extract the crown width of Metasequoia glyptostroboides. This species is distinguished by its well-developed terminal buds and distinct central trunk morphology. Taking the M. glyptostroboides forest in the Qingshan Lake National Forest Park in Lin’an District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China, as the target sample plot, YOLOv7 was improved using the simple, parameter-free attention model (SimAM) attention and SIoU modules. The SimAM attention module was experimentally proved capable of reducing the attention to other irrelevant information in the training process and improving the model’s accuracy. The SIoU module can improve the tightness between the detection frame and the edge of the target crown during the detection process and effectively enhance the accuracy of crown width measurement. The experimental results reveal that the improved model achieves 94.34% mAP@0.5 in the task of crown detection, which is 5% higher than that achieved by the original model. In crown width measurement, the R2 of the improved model reaches 0.837, which is 0.151 higher than that of the original model, thus verifying the effectiveness of the improved algorithm.
Free Choice in Quantum Theory: A p-adic View
Authors: Anashin Vladimir
Published: May 2023

In this paper, it is rigorously proven that since observational data (i.e., numerical values of physical quantities) are rational numbers only due to inevitably nonzero measurements errors, the conclusion about whether Nature at the smallest scales is discrete or continuous, random and chaotic, or strictly deterministic, solely depends on experimentalist’s free choice of the metrics (real or p-adic) he chooses to process the observational data. The main mathematical tools are p-adic 1-Lipschitz maps (which therefore are continuous with respect to the p-adic metric). The maps are exactly the ones defined by sequential Mealy machines (rather than by cellular automata) and therefore are causal functions over discrete time. A wide class of the maps can naturally be expanded to continuous real functions, so the maps may serve as mathematical models of open physical systems both over discrete and over continuous time. For these models, wave functions are constructed, entropic uncertainty relation is proven, and no hidden parameters are assumed. The paper is motivated by the ideas of I. Volovich on p-adic mathematical physics, by G. ‘t Hooft’s cellular automaton interpretation of quantum mechanics, and to some extent, by recent papers on superdeterminism by J. Hance, S. Hossenfelder, and T. Palmer.
Enhanced Power Quality in Single-Phase Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems: An Experimental Study
Authors: Benabdelkader Abdellah , Draou Azeddine , AlKassem Abdulrahman , Toumi Toufik , Denai Mouloud , Abdelkhalek Othmane , Ben Slimene Marwa
Published: May 2023

The main aim of the research work presented in this paper consists of proposing an effective control scheme for a grid-connected single-phase photovoltaic (PV) system to enhance not only the power quality at the point of common coupling (PCC) but also to operate with a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller. Moreover, an orthogonal signal generator (OSG) module for effective grid synchronization, a current reference generation controller, and a PWM generating block have also been designed and included in this paper. The proposed control strategy allows the MPPT controller to switch to faulty mode and maintains the voltage according to network requirements using an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS)-based control whenever a fault occurs at the PCC. The performance of the analyzed control strategy, which is based on the static compensation of the DC-link voltage fluctuations in a grid-connected inverter powered by PV, is further explored through simulations in MATLAB, and the results are included in this paper. Moreover, the control scheme is implemented experimentally using a dSPACE DS 1104 control board and then assessed on a small laboratory-scale single-phase PV system that is subjected to some fault scenarios. The simulation and experimental results have shown improved power quality and robustness against grid fluctuations, resulting in better dynamic performance.
Study on Phase-Shift Mechanism and Kriging-Based Global Optimization of the Active Displacer Pulse Tube Refrigerators
Authors: Geng Zongtao , Shao Wei , Cui Zheng , Zheng Chen
Published: May 2023

Pulse tube refrigerators are widely used in certain special fields, such as aerospace, due to their unique advantages. Compared to a conventional phase shifter, the active displacer helps to achieve a higher cooling efficiency for pulse tube refrigerators. At present, the displacer is mainly studied by one-dimensional simulation, and the optimization method is not perfect due to its poor accuracy, which is not conducive to obtaining a better performance. Based on the current status of displacer research, phase-shift mechanisms of inertance tube pulse tube refrigerators and active displacer pulse tube refrigerators were firstly studied comparatively by multidimensional simulation, and then we determined the crucial effect properties that lead to a better cooling performance for the active displacer pulse tube refrigerator at different cooling temperatures. Finally, an efficient optimization method combining the Kriging model and genetic algorithm is proposed to further improve the cooling performance of the active displacer pulse tube refrigerator. The results show that the active displacer substantially improves the cooling performance compared to the inertance tube mainly by increasing the PV power and enthalpy flow in the pulse tube. The Kriging agent models of active displacer pulse tube refrigerator achieve 98.2%, 98.31%, 97.86%, and 97.32% prediction accuracy for no-load temperature, cooling capacity, coefficient of performance, and total input PV power, respectively. After optimization, the no-load temperature is minimally optimized for a 23.68% reduction compared to the initial one with a relatively high efficiency, and the founded optimization methods can also be weighted for multiple objectives, according to actual needs.
Unique Symbolic Factorization for Fast Contingency Analysis Using Full Newton–Raphson Method
Authors: Bennani Hakim , Chebak Ahmed , El Ouafi Abderrazak
Published: May 2023

Contingency analysis plays an important role in assessing the static security of a network. Its purpose is to check whether a system can operate safely when some elements are out of service. In a real-time application, the computational time required to perform the calculation is paramount for operators to take immediate actions to prevent cascading outages. Therefore, the numerical performance of the contingency analysis is the main focus of this current research. In power flow calculation, when solving the network equations with a sparse matrix solver, most of the time is spent factorizing the Jacobian matrix. In terms of computation time, the symbolic factorization is the costliest operation in the LU (Lower-upper) factorization process. This paper proposes a novel method to perform the calculation with only one symbolic factorization using a full Newton–Raphson-based generic formulation and modular approach (GFMA). The symbolic factorization retained can be used during the iterations of any power flow contingency scenario. A computer study demonstrates that reusing the same symbolic factorization greatly reduces computation time and improves numerical performance. Power system security assessment under N-1 and N-2 contingency conditions is performed for the IEEE standard 54-bus and 108-bus to evaluate the numerical performance of the proposed method. A comparison with the conventional power flow method shows that the time required for the analysis is shortened considerably, with a minimum gain of 228%. The comparative analysis demonstrates that the proposed solution has better numerical performance for large-scale networks.
Business Models in Terms of the Strategy for Sustainable Management in Economic Entities Taking into Account Energy Transformation
Authors: Niekurzak Mariusz , Mikulik Jerzy
Published: May 2023

The article presents the results of research on the importance of managing the energy transition in various economic sectors. The barriers and benefits of implementing a knowledge management and environmental management system in enterprises were considered. These factors are necessary for the effective planning and proper functioning of enterprises. Knowledge becomes the main and most dynamic factor responsible for the development of a given company, while environmental management ensures it achieves high economic efficiency of production and environmental rules and regulations. The article presents the results of the functioning of knowledge-based enterprises in contemporary conditions characterized by constant changes in the environment in terms of energy transformation. As part of my research, an algorithm was built based on which essential elements of the Polish energy policy strategy were defined enterprises in various sectors of the economy. In the holistic approach, a model of the functioning of knowledge-based enterprises was built and tested. On its basis, a prosumer/customer business model was proposed on the example of a photovoltaic installation. The study was conducted using the methods of economic measurement models. These methods allowed us to calculate the market value of the investment with the assumed boundary criteria and to determine its effectiveness. The research was carried out in 2020–2022 on the example of a real photovoltaic installation. The use of a photovoltaic installation in a company based on a business model is justified in practice and allows the company to reduce the electricity costs incurred, in this case by about 60%. Taking into account the result for the calculated payback period of 3 years, this proves that such an investment is very profitable for the company. The developed business model showed that the project of its implementation is fully economically justified and will allow investors to create various economic areas as part of the ongoing energy transformation.
A Parametric Optimized Method for Three-Dimensional Corner Joints in Wooden Furniture
Authors: Xu Xiutong , Xiong Xianqing , Yue Xinyi , Zhang Mei
Published: May 2023

The three-dimensional corner joint is a type of joint in wooden furniture structures with complex parameter relationships and many constraints. Traditional furniture structure design requires repeated modifications of geometric models to determine parameter dimensions, which is inefficient and challenging and severely impacts the development of the digital design and manufacture process. Based on the ideal value range of mortise–tenon joints, this study derived a parametric optimized method of three-dimensional corner joints in wooden furniture and refined the theoretical value range of at least four main parameters: the width of the beneficial mortise (B2), the depth of the cede mortise (C1), the margin thickness from the cede tenon to the rail1 reference edge (bt1), and the margin thickness from the beneficial tenon to the rail2 reference edge (bt2). With case verification, the results show that in the axial direction of the cede tenon, the maxC1 decreased by 5.4 mm and the combination of B2,C1 reduced at least 23 kinds. In the cases of different post widths and the margin thickness from rail2’s reference edge to the post’s reference edge (Btm2), the value range and value quantity of bt2 were narrowed and decreased in various degrees. In the axial direction of the beneficial tenon, the value range and quantity of available values of the margin thickness from the cede tenon to the rail1 reference edge (bt1) decrease with decreasing margin thickness from the rail1 reference edge to the post reference edge (Btm1) when Btm1 is less than constant z. The parametric optimized method of three-dimensional corner joints in wooden furniture can effectively reduce the parameter dimensional value range, both theoretically and practically, and more refined value ranges can be obtained by setting more standard values. This method also provides ideas for the digital and standardized design of wooden furniture structures.
Effect of Hydropriming and Osmopriming on the Germination and Seedling Vigor of the East Indian Sandalwood (Santalum album L.)
Authors: Debta Harish , Kunhamu T. K. , Petrík Peter , Fleischer Peter , Jisha K. C.
Published: May 2023

The natural populations of East Indian sandalwood (Santalum album L.) are very confined and are facing a drastic decline over the past three decades due to overexploitation. Santalum album L. seeds, in general, have poor and staggered germination, which is the major constraint in raising seedlings in nursery and establishing plantations. In the present investigation, we studied the impact of hydro- and osmopriming on the germination attributes and seedling performance of Santalum album L. The Polyethylene glycol (PEG-6000) solutions at four concentrations of 5, 10, 15, and 20% and four durations of 2, 4, 6, and 8 days and hydropriming for the same durations were applied. Results indicated that the osmopriming of seeds at PEG solutions at 5% concentrations for 2 days recorded the highest germination (79%), which is 42% higher than the control group. Longer priming times (6–8 days) had no effect or negatively affected the germination and growth. Moreover, hydropriming had no significant impact on the germination percentage of sandalwood seeds. The positive growth after osmopriming was connected with higher β-amylase content, higher carbohydrate and fat content, and lower electrical conductance of the seeds. Osmopriming can be recommended as a suitable and low-cost technology in enhancing the seed germination and seedling growth of Santalum album L. to produce quality planting material. Further testing of osmoprimed seedlings under abiotic stress conditions may help to explore its possible acclimation potential for stress resistance.
Efficacy of Ultrasound-Assisted Lactic Acid Fermentation and Its Effect on the Nutritional and Sensory Quality of Novel Chickpea-Based Beverage
Authors: Johnson Nana Adwoa Nkuma , Adade Selorm Yao-Say Solomon , Ekumah John-Nelson , Li Yanshu , Betchem Garba , Issaka Eliasu , Ma Yongkun
Published: May 2023

Ultrasound-assisted fermentation is a promising approach for improving food products’ nutritional and sensory qualities. This study compared the effects of ultrasound-assisted fermentation on chickpea-based beverages’ nutritive and sensory components. Proximate, phytochemical, and microstructural data were examined to evaluate the effectiveness of the processing techniques. The processed samples demonstrated significantly higher (p < 0.05) nutritional and sensory outcomes compared to the unfermented sample. The unfermented sample had a total phytochemical level of 55.41 g/mL, whereas the fermented and ultrasound-assisted fermented samples had phytochemical contents of 66.71 and 64.51 µg/mL, respectively. With values of 8.37 ± 0.11 and 7.21 ± 0.06, respectively, on a 9-point hedonic scale, the sensory evaluation revealed that the traditionally fermented sample had a greater acceptability rate than the ultrasound-treated sample. The presence of organic acids in the final product was shown to be significantly impacted by fermentation, with propanoic having the highest concentrations of 1.79 ± 3 × 10−5a, 5.56 ± 2 × 10−5b, and 3.50 ± 0.00344c mg/mL for the unfermented, fermented, and ultrasound-assisted fermented beverages, respectively. According to these results, using ultrasound-assisted fermentation with reduced fermentation time can improve chickpea-based beverages’ nutritional and functional benefits.
Spotting of Volatile Signatures through GC-MS Analysis of Bacterial and Fungal Infections in Stored Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.)
Authors: Kate Adinath , Tiwari Shikha , Gujar Jamna Prasad , Modhera Bharat , Tripathi Manoj Kumar , Ray Hena , Ghosh Alokesh , Mohapatra Debabandya
Published: May 2023

Potatoes inoculated with Pectobacterium carotovorum spp., Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger, along with healthy (control) samples, were stored at different storage temperatures (4 ± 1 °C, 8 ± 1 °C, 25 ± 1 °C) for three weeks. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were mapped using the headspace gas analysis through solid phase micro extraction–gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy every week. The VOC data were arranged into different groups and classified using principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) models. Based on a variable importance in projection (VIP) score > 2 and the heat map, prominent VOCs were identified as 1-butanol and 1-hexanol, which can act as biomarkers for Pectobacter related bacterial spoilage during storage of potatoes in different conditions. Meanwhile, hexadecanoic acid and acetic acid were signature VOCs for A. flavus, and hexadecane, undecane, tetracosane, octadecanoic acid, tridecene and undecene were associated with A. niger. The PLS-DA model performed better at classifying the VOCs of the three different species of infection and the control sample compared to PCA, with high values of R2 (96–99%) and Q2 (0.18–0.65). The model was also found to be reliable for predictability during random permutation test-based validation. This approach can be adopted for fast and accurate diagnosis of pathogenic invasion of potatoes during storage.
Research Progress of Quinoa Seeds (Chenopodium quinoa Wild.): Nutritional Components, Technological Treatment, and Application
Authors: Mu Hongyan , Xue Sophia , Sun Qingrui , Shi John , Zhang Danyang , Wang Deda , Wei Jianteng
Published: May 2023

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Wild.) is a pseudo-grain that belongs to the amaranth family and has gained attention due to its exceptional nutritional properties. Compared to other grains, quinoa has a higher protein content, a more balanced amino acid profile, unique starch features, higher levels of dietary fiber, and a variety of phytochemicals. In this review, the physicochemical and functional properties of the major nutritional components in quinoa are summarized and compared to those of other grains. Our review also highlights the technological approaches used to improve the quality of quinoa-based products. The challenges of formulating quinoa into food products are addressed, and strategies for overcoming these challenges through technological innovation are discussed. This review also provides examples of common applications of quinoa seeds. Overall, the review underscores the potential benefits of incorporating quinoa into the diet and the importance of developing innovative approaches to enhance the nutritional quality and functionality of quinoa-based products.
Modification of the Structural and Functional Characteristics of Mung Bean Globin Polyphenol Complexes: Exploration under Heat Treatment Conditions
Authors: Ma Yantao , Zhang Shu , Feng Yuchao , Wang Haoyu , Liu Yuhang , Wang Changyuan
Published: May 2023

During the storage and processing of mung beans, proteins and polyphenols are highly susceptible to interactions with each other. Using globulin extracted from mung beans as the raw material, the study combined it with ferulic acid (FA; phenolic acid) and vitexin (flavonoid). Physical and chemical indicators were combined with spectroscopy and kinetic methods, relying on SPSS and peak fit data to statistically analyze the conformational and antioxidant activity changes of mung bean globulin and two polyphenol complexes before and after heat treatment and clarify the differences and the interaction mechanism between globulin and the two polyphenols. The results showed that, with the increase in polyphenol concentration, the antioxidant activity of the two compounds increased significantly. In addition, the antioxidant activity of the mung bean globulin–FA complex was stronger. However, after heat treatment, the antioxidant activity of the two compounds decreased significantly. The interaction mechanism of the mung bean globulin–FA/vitexin complex was static quenching, and heat treatment accelerated the occurrence of the quenching phenomenon. Mung bean globulin and two polyphenols were combined through a hydrophobic interaction. However, after heat treatment, the binding mode with vitexin changed to an electrostatic interaction. The infrared characteristic absorption peaks of the two compounds shifted to different degrees, and new peaks appeared in the areas of 827 cm−1, 1332 cm−1, and 812 cm−1. Following the interaction between mung bean globulin and FA/vitexin, the particle size decreased, the absolute value of zeta potential increased, and the surface hydrophobicity decreased. After heat treatment, the particle size and zeta potential of the two composites decreased significantly, and the surface hydrophobicity and stability increased significantly. The antioxidation and thermal stability of the mung bean globulin–FA were better than those of the mung bean globulin–vitexin complex. This study aimed to provide a theoretical reference for the protein–polyphenol interaction mechanism and a theoretical basis for the research and development of mung bean functional foods.