bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virus Infection and Systemic Inflammation: Lessons Learnt from COVID-19 and Beyond
Authors: Faist Aileen , Janowski Josua , Kumar Sriram , Hinse Saskia , Çalışkan Duygu Merve , Lange Julius , Ludwig Stephan , Brunotte Linda
Published: July 2022

Respiratory infections with newly emerging zoonotic viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, the etiological agent of COVID-19, often lead to the perturbation of the human innate and adaptive immune responses causing severe disease with high mortality. The responsible mechanisms are commonly virus-specific and often include either over-activated or delayed local interferon responses, which facilitate efficient viral replication in the primary target organ, systemic viral spread, and rapid onset of organ-specific and harmful inflammatory responses. Despite the distinct replication strategies, human infections with SARS-CoV-2 and highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses demonstrate remarkable similarities and differences regarding the mechanisms of immune induction, disease dynamics, as well as the long-term sequelae, which will be discussed in this review. In addition, we will highlight some important lessons about the effectiveness of antiviral and immunomodulatory therapeutic strategies that this pandemic has taught us.
Differential Susceptibility of Retinal Neurons to the Loss of Mitochondrial Biogenesis Factor Nrf1
Authors: Kiyama Takae , Chen Ching-Kang , Zhang Annie , Mao Chai-An
Published: July 2022

The retina, the accessible part of the central nervous system, has served as a model system to study the relationship between energy utilization and metabolite supply. When the metabolite supply cannot match the energy demand, retinal neurons are at risk of death. As the powerhouse of eukaryotic cells, mitochondria play a pivotal role in generating ATP, produce precursors for macromolecules, maintain the redox homeostasis, and function as waste management centers for various types of metabolic intermediates. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in the pathologies of a number of degenerative retinal diseases. It is well known that photoreceptors are particularly vulnerable to mutations affecting mitochondrial function due to their high energy demand and susceptibility to oxidative stress. However, it is unclear how defective mitochondria affect other retinal neurons. Nuclear respiratory factor 1 (Nrf1) is the major transcriptional regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis, and loss of Nrf1 leads to defective mitochondria biogenesis and eventually cell death. Here, we investigated how different retinal neurons respond to the loss of Nrf1. We provide in vivo evidence that the disruption of Nrf1-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis results in a slow, progressive degeneration of all retinal cell types examined, although they present different sensitivity to the deletion of Nrf1, which implicates differential energy demand and utilization, as well as tolerance to mitochondria defects in different neuronal cells. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis on rod-specific Nrf1 deletion uncovered a previously unknown role of Nrf1 in maintaining genome stability.
Adsorption Mechanism of SO2 on Transition Metal (Pd, Pt, Au, Fe, Co and Mo)-Modified InP3 Monolayer
Authors: Hou Tianyu , Zeng Wen , Zhou Qu
Published: July 2022

Using the first-principles theory, this study explored the electronic behavior and adsorption effect of SO2 on an InP3 monolayer doped with transition metal atoms (Pd, Pt, Au, Fe, Co and Mo). Through calculation and analysis, the optimum doping sites of TM dopants on the InP3 monolayer were determined, and the adsorption processes of SO2 by TM-InP3 monolayers were simulated. In the adsorption process, all TM-InP3 monolayers and SO2 molecules were deformed to some extent. All adsorption was characterized as chemical adsorption, and SO2 acted as an electron acceptor. Comparing Ead and Qt, the order of the SO2 adsorption effect was Mo-InP3 > Fe-InP3 > Co-InP3 > Pt-InP3 > Pd-InP3 > Au-InP3. Except for the Au atom, the other five TM atoms as dopants all enhanced the adsorption effect of InP3 monolayers for SO2. Furthermore, the analysis of DCD and DOS further confirmed the above conclusions. Based on frontier orbital theory analysis, it is revealed that the adsorption of SO2 reduces the conductivity of TM-InP3 monolayers to different degrees, and it is concluded that Pd-InP3, Pt-InP3, Fe-InP3 and Mo-InP3 monolayers have great potential in the application of SO2 resistive gas sensors. This study provides a theoretical basis for further research on TM-InP3 as a SO2 sensor.
Fluorescent Calixarene-Schiff as a Nanovehicle with Biomedical Purposes
Authors: Lebrón José Antonio , López-López Manuel , Moyá María Luisa , Deasy Mary , Muñoz-Wic Ana , García-Calderón Clara Beatriz , Valle Rosado Iván , López-Cornejo Pilar , Bernal Eva , Ostos Francisco José
Published: July 2022

Gene therapy is a technique that is currently under expansion and development. Recent advances in genetic medicine have paved the way for a broader range of therapies and laid the groundwork for next-generation technologies. A terminally substituted difluorene-diester Schiff Base calix[4]arene has been studied in this work as possible nanovector to be used in gene therapy. Changes to luminescent behavior of the calixarene macrocycle are reported in the presence of ct-DNA. The calixarene macrocycle interacts with calf thymus DNA (ct-DNA), generating changes in its conformation. Partial double-strand denaturation is induced at low concentrations of the calixarene, resulting in compaction of the ct-DNA. However, interaction between calixarene molecules themselves takes place at high calixarene concentrations, favoring the decompaction of the polynucleotide. Based on cytotoxicity studies, the calixarene macrocycle investigated has the potential to be used as a nanovehicle and improve the therapeutic efficacy of pharmacological agents against tumors.
Cultural Influences on Family Mealtime Routines in Mexico: Focus Group Study with Mexican Mothers
Authors: Villegas Elizabeth , Hammons Amber J. , Wiley Angela R. , Fiese Barbara H. , Teran-Garcia Margarita
Published: July 2022

Mexico’s obesity rates are alarming, and experts project drastic increases in the next thirty years. There is growing interest in understanding how remote acculturation and globalization processes influence health behaviors. The present study used focus group data from a central state, San Luis Potosí, in Mexico to explore mothers’ perspectives on factors that influence family mealtime routines. Thematic analysis was used to identify barriers and facilitators to healthy mealtime routines and diet within families. Twenty-one mothers participated in the focus groups; 76% were full-time stay at home mothers, the majority were low-income (65%), and fewer than half reached a high school education. Three major themes emerged: (1) mothers do most of the visible work involving mealtime routines; (2) family meals are different today, and globalization is a contributing factor; and (3) family mealtimes are shifting to weekend events. Empowering mothers to negotiate diet with family members to build healthy routines, navigate challenges due to changing environments, and set family boundaries around technology use during mealtimes should be taken into consideration when promoting healthy behaviors with Mexican families.
Rapid Maxillary Expansion on the Adolescent Patient: Systematic Review and Case Report
Authors: Inchingolo Alessio Danilo , Ferrara Irene , Viapiano Fabio , Netti Anna , Campanelli Merigrazia , Buongiorno Silvio , Latini Giulia , Carpentiere Vincenzo , Ciocia Anna Maria , Ceci Sabino , Patano Assunta , Piras Fabio , Cardarelli Filippo , Nemore Damiano , Malcangi Giuseppina , Di Noia Angela , Mancini Antonio , Inchingolo Angelo Michele , Marinelli Grazia , Rapone Biagio , Bordea Ioana Roxana , Scarano Antonio , Lorusso Felice , Di Venere Daniela , Inchingolo Francesco , Dipalma Gianna
Published: July 2022

Aim: In the literature, many studies and articles are investigating new devices and approaches to achieve rapid palate expansion through the opening of the palatal suture, and evaluating the skeletal, dental, and soft tissue effects. The purpose of this review was to assess how palatal expansion is performed in adolescent patients with permanent dentition. Furthermore, it was reported as an example of successful orthodontic treatment of an 11-year-old female patient affected by maxillary skeletal transverse deficiency, in permanent dentition. Methods: A search of the literature was conducted on PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Inclusion criteria were the year of publication between 2017 and 2022, patients aged 10 to 16 years in permanent dentition, with transversal discrepancy, treated with tooth-borne, bone-borne, hybrid palatal expanders. Results: A total of 619 articles were identified by the electronic search, and finally, a total of 16 papers were included in the qualitative analysis. Conclusions: From this study, it was assessed that MARPE is more predictable, and it determines a more significant expansion of the suture than the Hyrax expander, with fewer side effects.
Lung Abscess Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Yousef Lamees , Yousef Abdullah , Al-Shamrani Abdullah
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: Lung abscess is a lung infection that leads to the destruction of the lung parenchyma, resulting in a cavity formation and central necrosis filled with purulent fluids. It is an uncommon pediatric problem, and there is a paucity of literature reviews on this subject, especially for the pediatric age group. Lung abscess is commonly divided into those considered primary in previously well children or secondary in those with predisposing co-morbidities. The predominant pathogens isolated from primary lung abscesses are the aerobic organisms, including streptococcal species, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, while anaerobic bacteria such as Bacteroides species are predominant in secondary groups. Children usually present with fever, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and sputum. While physical examination may reveal diffuse crackles on auscultation, the diagnosis is usually confirmed by chest X-ray. (2) Methods: We report four different cases with lung abscesses from both primary and secondary group with similar presentations and radiological findings, but the approach was different in each according to the underlining cause. (3) Conclusions: Conservative therapies with a prolonged course of antibiotics remain the cornerstone of therapy for both primary and secondary lung abscesses. The underlying cause should be considered when there is a suboptimal response. However, invasive intervention is becoming more popular with better yield, shorter duration of antibiotics and admission, and excellent prognosis.
Psychological and Psychiatric Comorbidities in Youth with Serious Physical Illness
Authors: Nibras Sohail , Kentor Rachel , Masood Yasir , Price Karin , Schneider Nicole M. , Tenenbaum Rachel B. , Calarge Chadi
Published: July 2022

An estimated one in six children in the United States suffers from a mental disorder, including mood, anxiety, or behavioral disorders. This rate is even higher in children with chronic medical illness. This manuscript provides a concise review of the symptoms that comprise mental conditions often observed in children with chronic illness or at the end of life. It further provides some guidance to help clinicians distinguish normative from pathological presentations. Evidence-based psychotherapy interventions, potentially applicable to the acute inpatient setting, are briefly summarized. Broad recommendations are made regarding both psychotherapeutic as well as pharmacotherapeutic interventions, with a review of common or serious medication side effects. Finally, delirium recognition and management are summarized.
Perfect Absorption of Fan-Shaped Graphene Absorbers with Good Adjustability in the Mid-Infrared
Authors: Ren Hongyu , Shangguan Qianyi , Song Zijun , Zhao Yong , Yi Zao , Ma Guolu , Zhang Jianguo , Yang Hua , Wang Shifa , Wu Pinghui
Published: July 2022

This paper presents a graphene metamaterial absorber based on impedance matching. A finite difference in time domain (FDTD) method is used to achieve a theoretically perfect absorption in the mid-infrared band. A basis is created for the multiband stable high absorption of graphene in the mid-infrared. The designed graphene absorber is composed of graphene, a dielectric layer, a gold plane, and a silicon substrate, separately. The incident source of mid-infrared can be utilized to stimulate multiband resonance absorption peaks from 2.55 to 4.15 μm. The simulation results show that the absorber has three perfect resonance peaks exceeding 99% at λ1 = 2.67 μm, λ2 = 2.87 μm, and λ3 = 3.68 μm, which achieve an absorption efficiency of 99.67%, 99.61%, and 99.40%, respectively. Furthermore, the absorber maintains an excellent performance with a wide incident angle range of 0°–45°, and it also keeps the insensitive characteristic to transverse electric wave (TE) and transverse magnetic wave (TM). The results above indicate that our perfect graphene absorber, with its tunability and wide adaptability, has many potential applications in the fields of biosensing, photodetection, and photocell.
Mating Competition between Wild and Artificially Reared Olive Fruit Flies
Authors: Terzidou Anastasia , Koveos Dimitrios , Kouloussis Nikos
Published: July 2022

Mating success of artificially reared males of the olive fruit fly is essential for genetic control techniques for this pest. We studied the mating competition between males from a laboratory-adapted population reared with an artificial diet and wild males emerged from field-infested olives and grown in olives in the laboratory. We maintained virgin wild females or artificially reared females in cages together with virgin wild and artificially reared males and scored the percentages of different males in the mated pairs, mating latency, and mating duration. After mating, we determined the egg production and the size of spermathecae of females mated with different males. Our results indicate that artificially reared males are competitive to the wild males, and they mated in similar percentages with wild and artificially reared females. Mean mating latencies (SE) of wild females that mated with wild and artificially reared males were 69.8 (4.8) min (n = 39) and 114.6 (8.1) (n = 43) min, respectively. No difference was discovered in the mating duration or egg production between females that mated with a wild or artificially reared male. Wild females had higher spermathecae volume when they mated with wild males compared to artificially reared males (two-tailed t-test = −2.079, df = 54, p = 0.0423).
The Crystal Structure of 3-Amino-1-(4-Chlorophenyl)-9-Methoxy-1H-Benzo[f]Chromene-2-Carbonitrile: Antimicrobial Activity and Docking Studies
Authors: Okasha Rawda M. , Fouda Ahmed M. , Bajaber Majed A. , Ghabbour Hazem A. , E. Amr Abd El-Galil , Naglah Ahmed M. , Almehizia Abdulrahman A. , Elhenawy Ahmed A. , El-Agrody Ahmed M.
Published: July 2022

Compound 3-amino-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-9-methoxy-1H-benzo[f]chromene-2-carbonitrile (4), was synthesized via the reaction of 7-methoxynaphthalen-2-ol (1), 4-chlorobenzaldehyde (2), and malononitrile (3) in an ethanolic piperidine solution under microwave irradiation. The synthesized pyran derivative 4 was asserted through spectral data and X-ray diffraction. The molecular structure of compound 4 was established unambiguously through the single crystal X-ray measurements and crystallized in the Triclinic, P-1, a = 8.7171 (4) Å, b = 10.9509 (5) Å, c = 19.5853 (9) Å, α = 78.249 (2)°, β = 89.000 (2)°, γ = 70.054 (2)°, V = 1717.88 (14) Å3, Z = 4. The target molecule has been screened for antibacterial and antifungal functionality. Compound 4 exhibited favorable antimicrobial activities that resembled the reference antimicrobial agents with an IZ range of 16–26 mm. In addition, MIC, MBC, and MFC were assessed and screened for molecule 4, revealing bactericidal and fungicidal effects. Lastly, a molecular docking analysis was addressed and conducted for this desired molecule.
Examination of Forest Steppe Species in the Case of Areas Where Traditional Cultivation Was Abandoned
Authors: Szirmai Orsolya , Saláta Dénes , Penksza Károly , Schellenberger Judit , Czóbel Szilárd
Published: July 2022

The thousands of kilometers of forest steppes in Eurasia belong to the most threatened ecosystems thanks to habitat loss. We have limited knowledge on the recolonization ability of forest steppe species to date, which is the reason we examined the textural and structural changes in these species during secondary succession in areas of different former land use. The species number, cover, and diversity of forest steppe species, especially those of the Festuco-Brometea group, became significant for all three types in the oldest fallows. The number and proportion of forest steppe species have been steadily increasing in abandoned vineyards and arable land, indicating that forest steppe species are able to rapidly recolonize. The increase in the number and cover of forest steppe species in abandoned grasslands reveals that the replacement of the species pool of these grasslands is not necessarily accompanied by degradation, but also by the appearance and spread of valuable natural species if the habitat is sufficiently patchy. The proportions of habitat categories level off in abandoned vineyards and arable land as abandonment progresses. The cover rates of disturbed habitats species were negligible for all three types for the third decade after abandonment, indicating a change in the quality of the species pool.
Parasites, Bacteria and Viruses of the Edible Dormouse Glis glis (Rodentia: Gliridae) in the Western Palaearctic
Authors: Kirillov Alexander A. , Kirillova Nadezhda Yu. , Ruchin Alexander B.
Published: July 2022

An overview of the parasites, bacteria and viruses of Glis glis (Rodentia, Gliridae) inhabiting the Western Palearctic is given. A total of 85 articles published from 1895 to 2021 were reviewed and analysed in our study. According to the literature’s data, 104 species associated with G. glis are recorded: 4 viruses, 8 Protozoa, 6 Cestoda, 6 Trematoda, 4 Nematoda, 1 Heteroptera, 2 Anoplura, 39 Siphonaptera and 34 Acari. The most studied group is ectoparasites. To a lesser extent, parasitic worms in G. glis were studied. There is very little data about the dormouse protozoans and viruses. The most studied parasites, viruses and protozoans of G. glis are in Germany, where 21 species were noted. The largest number of parasites was found in the dormouse in Russia (22), but of two groups only: helminths and ectoparasites. Only 20 out of 104 parasite species recorded in G. glis are host-specific. Most parasites (60 species) found in G. glis have a Palaearctic and cosmopolitan distribution. Three viruses, six species of protozoa and three helminths have veterinary and medical significance as potential pathogens of dangerous zoonoses. Also, many species of fleas, mites and ticks found on G. glis are vectors of a number of dangerous vector-borne diseases in humans and domestic and wild animals.
Molecular Phylogeny of Selected Kenyan Eucalyptus Species Inferred from MatK, rbcL and TrnL-F Genes and Their Suitability for Power Transmission Poles
Authors: Chebet Daisy , Musila Fredrick M. , Kituyi Sarah N. , Muthike George M. , Kaigongi Magrate M.
Published: July 2022

Genus Eucalyptus belongs to the family Myrtaceae and consists of more than 900 species, various hybrids and varieties. The major species that are grown in Kenya are Eucalyptus grandis, E. globulus, E. saligna and E. camaldulensis. Most Eucalyptus species are highly dependent on rainfall and this is challenged by climatic changes owing to global warming making it difficult to effectively match the availability of mature trees and the market demand especially for use as power transmission poles. With the widespread availability of other naturally occurring Eucalyptus species such as E. camaldulensis and E. globulus, it becomes important to determine the genetic diversity and to analyze the phenotypic traits of these species for suitability as power transmission poles in order to counter the overdependence on E. grandis. Phenotypic traits investigated included measuring total tree height and diameter at breast height (DBH), while molecular data were obtained from sequencing MatK, rbcL and TrnL-F genes from selected species and evolutionary analyses such as nucleotide substitution rates, base composition disparity indices, evolutionary divergence, nucleotide diversity indices and phylogeny construction were conducted in MEGA 11. Significant differences in DBH and height among Eucalyptus species were observed when the phenotypic data were subjected to ANOVA. In this study, E. robusta, E. paniculata, E. maculata, E. dunnii, E. camaldulensis and E. citriodora are fit to be used as power transmission poles but they are limited by their short height. However, E. tereticornis and E. glaucina have the desired DBH and height and hence can be used as substitutes for E.grandis. Generally, the molecular phylogeny study has shown that the studied Eucalyptus species are closely related and form various monophyletic clades which can be attributed to the short genetic distances, low substitution rates, low nucleotide bias disparity indices and low diversity scores. Further phylogenetic and gene expression studies involving more Eucalyptus species are needed to better understand Eucalyptus phylogeny, and diversity and identify species with similar genetic make-up to that of E. grandis which has been used extensively for the provision of electricity transmission poles.
Microcrustacean (Cladocera and Copepoda) Assemblages of a Tropical Karst Lake District
Authors: Fernández Rocío , Alcocer Javier , Oseguera Luis A.
Published: July 2022

The taxonomic richness, composition, abundance, and biomass of pelagic microcrustaceans (Cladocera and Copepoda) were determined in 17 lakes of the “Lagunas de Montebello” National Park, a karst lake district in Chiapas State, southeast Mexico. The selected aquatic bodies exemplify the lake diversity in the area, which displays an anthropic impact gradient from impacted/eutrophic lakes on the NW to non-impacted/oligotrophic lakes on the SE. Sampling was conducted in two contrasting climatic periods: warm-rainy and cold-dry seasons. There were 32 taxa, five calanoid copepods, 16 cyclopoid copepods, and 11 cladocerans. The highest taxonomic richness, abundance, and biomass were found in the impacted/eutrophic lakes and the lowest in the non-impacted/oligotrophic lakes. Nauplii and copepods were the most abundant, while the copepods provided the largest biomass. Small-sized individuals composed the most significant abundance and biomass in impacted/eutrophic lakes, while large-sized individuals in the non-impacted/oligotrophic lakes. Even though the studied lakes belong to the same lake district, they showed low taxonomic similarity. Not a single taxon was found in all lakes; the most distributed taxa (13–14 lakes) were Mastigodiaptomus nesus and Leptodiaptomus cuauhtemoci, while 15 taxa (47%) were found in only 1–3 lakes. This karst lake district showed a great regional microcrustacean taxonomic richness but a great singularity level in each lake.
A Community-Level Approach to Species Conservation: A Case Study of Falco naumanni in Southern Italy
Authors: Ferrarini Alessandro , Giglio Giuseppe , Pellegrino Stefania Caterina , Gustin Marco
Published: July 2022

The conservation of threatened species is prevalently oriented towards two management strategies, i.e., habitat-level and species-level approaches. The former is focused on improving the conditions of the habitat of a certain species, whereas the latter is aimed at directly strengthening the species of interest. In this work, we adopted a different solution based on a community-level approach. Firstly, we identified the species (predators, competitors, prey) that interact with the species of interest (the lesser kestrel, Falco naumanni) in Southern Italy and mapped all of the ecological interactions among these species. Secondly, we built a simulation framework of the entire ecological network of the lesser kestrel. Thirdly, we simulated different management strategies that could increase the lesser kestrel population stock by targeting the species that interact with it. We found that the lesser kestrel in Southern Italy can be effectively protected by targeting the species interacting with the lesser kestrel, and that natural changes in the abundance of the interacting species could be used to pro-actively predict the dynamics of the lesser kestrel population. Our study demonstrates that a community-level approach to species conservation is highly appropriate on a local scale. Our methodological framework, based on qualitative modeling and what-if scenarios, can be applied in the absence of quantitative estimations of population stocks and interaction strengths.
Histopathology of Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Systematic Review
Authors: Smith Shane David Basil , Okoye Ginette A. , Sokumbi Olayemi
Published: July 2022

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory scarring disease felt to be related to occlusion of the hair follicle unit in intertriginous areas. We perform a systematic review on HS histopathology to evaluate current knowledge and discuss future directions. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for relevant articles published from January 1985 to January 2021 that discussed the pathology of HS. Additional articles were identified by hand-searching, which entailed manually scanning selected journals. A total of 355 citations were identified in the primary search within the main databases. Two hundred and seventy-nine articles were excluded after a review of titles, abstracts, and duplicates. Sixty-one studies did not meet the inclusion criteria or were found to be duplicates, resulting in a total of 15 articles for analysis. Three articles were hand-searched. This comprehensive systematic review of the histopathology of HS confirms a high prevalence of follicular occlusion, follicular hyperkeratosis, and hyperplasia of the follicular epithelium. These findings support the central role of follicular occlusion in the development and progression of HS while providing a potential path to directing therapeutics against follicular occlusion.
An Improved Tiered Head Pose Estimation Network with Self-Adjust Loss Function
Authors: Zhu Xiaoliang , Yang Qiaolai , Zhao Liang , Dai Zhicheng , He Zili , Rong Wenting , Sun Junyi , Liu Gendong
Published: July 2022

As an important task in computer vision, head pose estimation has been widely applied in both academia and industry. However, there remains two challenges in the field of head pose estimation: (1) even given the same task (e.g., tiredness detection), the existing algorithms usually consider the estimation of the three angles (i.e., roll, yaw, and pitch) as separate facets, which disregard their interplay as well as differences and thus share the same parameters for all layers; and (2) the discontinuity in angle estimation definitely reduces the accuracy. To solve these two problems, a THESL-Net (tiered head pose estimation with self-adjust loss network) model is proposed in this study. Specifically, first, an idea of stepped estimation using distinct network layers is proposed, gaining a greater freedom during angle estimation. Furthermore, the reasons for the discontinuity in angle estimation are revealed, including not only labeling the dataset with quaternions or Euler angles, but also the loss function that simply adds the classification and regression losses. Subsequently, a self-adjustment constraint on the loss function is applied, making the angle estimation more consistent. Finally, to examine the influence of different angle ranges on the proposed model, experiments are conducted on three popular public benchmark datasets, BIWI, AFLW2000, and UPNA, demonstrating that the proposed model outperforms the state-of-the-art approaches.
Press Casting Quality Prediction and Analysis Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Lin Chih-Hsueh , Hu Guo-Hsin , Ho Chia-Wei , Hu Chia-Yen
Published: July 2022

In an industrial mass production pattern, quality prediction is one of the important processes when guarding quality. The products are extracted periodically or quantitatively for inspection in order to observe the relationship between process variation and engineering specification. When these irregularities are not instantly detected by lot sampling inspection, lot defectives are produced, and the defective cost increases. Failure to identify defects during sampling inspection leads to product returns or harm to business reputation. Press casting is a common mass production method in the metal industry. After the metal is molten at a high temperature, high pressure is injected into the mold, and then it is solidified and formed in the mold. Thus, pressure stability inside the mold is one of the key factors that influences quality. The melting point of aluminum alloy is normally around 650 °C, but there was no sensor that could withstand this high temperature. To combat this, we developed a high temperature resistant sensor and installed it into pressure casting mold grounded on the principles of fluid mechanics and experts’ suggestions in order to realize the impact of pressure change on the mold. To our limited knowledge, it was a seminal study on predicting mold’s casting quality via in-mold pressure data. We propose a press casting quality prediction method based on machine learning. By collecting the in-mold pressure data in real time. Savitzky-Golay Filter is used for data smoothing, and first-order difference is taken to extract the time interval of an actual injection of molten metal in-to the mold. We extract the key data that influence the quality and employ XGBoost to establish a classifier. In the experiment we prove that the method achieves good accuracy of quality prediction and recall of defectives for in-mold pressure. Via this model, we not only can save large amount of time and costs, but also can carry out maintenance warnings in advance, notify professionals to stop produce defective products, reduce the shipping risk and maintain reputation so as to strengthen its competitive edge.
A Cooperative ADRC-Based Approach for Angular Velocity Synchronization and Load-Sharing in Servomechanisms
Authors: Guerrero-Sánchez W. Fermin , Linares-Flores Jésus , Hernández-Méndez Arturo , Gonzalez-Diaz Victor R. , Mino Aguilar Gerardo , Munoz-Hernandez German A. , Guerrero-Castellanos J. Fermi
Published: July 2022

This paper is concerned with designing a dynamical synchronization (via a robust cooperative control) of an electromechanical system network (EMSN), consisting of nonidentical brushed DC motors, where only the motors’ angular velocity measurements are available. The challenge of the proposed approach is that the actuation provided by the motor needs to handle external disturbances to achieve the velocity tracking task and handle the interaction between both motors cooperatively to share the load and the disturbance rejection. The control’s basis involves differential flatness and an active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) framework augmented using ideas from the graph theory analysis and multi-agent networks. Experimental results verify the theoretical developments and show the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy despite unexpectedly changing load disturbance and parameters uncertainties. The proposed algorithm is suitable for embedded use due to its simplicity. It can be applied to a broad spectrum of mechatronic systems where dual-motor drive arrangements are necessary.
Consumers’ Social Responsibility in the Process of Energy Consumption—The Case of Poland
Authors: Hoffmann-Burdzińska Kinga , Stolecka-Makowska Agata , Flak Olaf , Lipowski Marcin , Łapczyński Mariusz
Published: July 2022

Although European energy policy supports the reduction of energy consumption, the current economic and political situation in Poland and uncertainty related to the origin of energy sources do not support it. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to identify and assess the factors that affect the energy-saving behaviour of Polish consumers in the process of energy consumption. The research problem concerns the specificity of behaviours that are part of new trends in consumption, such as greening and the ethical dimension of consumption. The research question arises as to what the social responsibility of consumers is in the process of energy consumption. The research problem comes down to the question of factors that determine the behaviour of an individual consumer in the energy market. In order to realise the indicated purpose of the article, a conceptual research model was built and direct research was conducted using the research method, which was an online survey (CAWI). The research was run among 1422 individual consumers. After verifying 14 research hypotheses, it can be concluded that energy-saving behaviour is influenced in similar ways by a set of factors. In the paper there are findings which show that the generally understood energy-saving behaviour (Y1—at home and Y2—off-site) is influenced by the following factors: X1—energy-saving knowledge, X3—green consumer values, X5—social influence, X6—beliefs, and X7—consumer awareness. The specific mechanism of influence of each of the dominant factors is that the higher the intensity of these factors in consumer behaviour, the more actions are taken to save energy inside or outside the home. However, X2—energy-saving cost perception and X4—materialism presents this influence mechanism only for Y1—energy-saving behaviour at home.
Dimethyl Carbonate: Review of Synthesis Routes and Catalysts Used
Authors: Kohli Kirtika , Sharma Brajendra K. , Panchal Chandrakant B.
Published: July 2022

This review summarizes the performance of potential catalysts for the synthesis of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) using CO2 as a feedstock by two major processes—the direct route of carbonylation of alcohols and the indirect route of alcoholysis of urea. The reaction mechanisms and corresponding catalysts that were previously investigated are discussed. The major challenges associated with the conversion of CO2 to DMC are the low yields, low DMC selectivity, and thermodynamic limitations (alcohol carbonylation) of reversible reactions with low equilibrium constants. This occurs mainly due to the highly stable carbon dioxide molecules. The development of novel catalysts with high yields and high selectivity needs to be studied to overcome these technical challenges. In addition, to enhance the DMC yield, the use of dehydrating agents for water removal from the reaction mixture is recommended and discussed in detail in this article. This review critically examines the different catalysts used by investigators, along with their respective operating conditions and suitability in applications for the commercial synthesis of CO2-based DMC.
Towards an Accurate Aerodynamic Performance Analysis Methodology of Cross-Flow Fans
Authors: Himeur Rania M. , Khelladi Sofiane , Ait Chikh Mohamed Abdessamed , Vanaei Hamid Reza , Belaidi Idir , Bakir Farid
Published: July 2022

Cross-flow fans (CFFs) have become increasingly popular in recent years. This is due to their use in several domains such as air conditioning and aircraft propulsion. They also show their utility in the ventilation system of hybrid electric cars. Their high efficiency and performance significantly rely on the design parameters. Up to now, there is no general approach that predicts the CFFs’ performance. This work describes a new methodology that helps deduce the performance of CFFs in turbomachinery, using both analytical modeling and experimental data. Two different loss models are detailed and compared to determine the performance–pressure curves of this type of fan. The efficiency evaluation is achieved by realizing a multidisciplinary study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, and an optimization algorithm combined to explore the internal flow field and obtain additional information about the eccentric vortex, to finally obtain the ultimate formulation of the Eck/Laing CFF efficiency, which is validated by the experimental results with good agreement. This approach can be an efficient tool to speed up the cross-flow fans’ design cycle and to predict their global performance.
Rhizosphere Effects along an Altitudinal Gradient of the Changbai Mountain, China
Authors: Huo Changfu , Lu Jiayu , Yin Liming , Wang Peng , Cheng Weixin
Published: July 2022

Rhizosphere effects (REs) play important roles in regulating carbon (C) and nutrient cycling in terrestrial ecosystems. However, little is known about the REs of mature trees in the field, especially at the ecosystem scale. This study aimed to explore the variation and patterns of REs in natural ecosystems. Here, combining soil monoliths with an adhering soil (shaking fine roots) method was adopted to sample paired rhizosphere soil and bulk soil along an altitudinal gradient. Based on the relative REs and the percentage of rhizosphere soil mass, the REs on soil C and net nitrogen mineralization rates (Cmin and net Nmin) at the ecosystem scale were estimated. Our results showed that the REs on soil processes, soil microbial biomass C and extracellular enzyme activities (β-glucosidase and N-acetyl-glucosaminidase activities), and soil chemical properties (total C, total N, inorganic N, extractable P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, and Mn) were significantly positive across altitudinal sites, while soil pH was significantly negative. Although the relative REs on investigated variables varied significantly among altitudes, the relative REs did not show a clear trend with the increased altitudes. Across altitudes, the mean magnitude of ecosystem-level REs on Cmin and net Nmin were 19% (ranging from 4% to 48%) and 16% (ranging from 3% to 34%), respectively. Furthermore, the magnitude of ecosystem-level rhizosphere effects increased linearly with the increased altitudes. The altitudinal patterns of ecosystem-level RE mainly depend on the percentage of rhizosphere soil mass. In conclusion, our results provided a set of new evidence for the REs, and highlighted the need to incorporate REs into land C and N models.
Grade Division and Benchmark Price of Forestlands Using Geospatial Technology: A Case Study of Southeastern China
Authors: Wu Lianbei , Zhang Weimin , Li Mingyue , Chen Fangyuan
Published: July 2022

Forestlands not only provide the conditions that support forested environments, but they also generate natural resources and ecosystem services that support human survival and social development. Using benchmark price to evaluate the economic value of forests is fast and efficient, which can function as an important tool for the improvement of forest resources management. However, information remains limited on how to establish a unified and complete benchmark price for forestland resources in China. Therefore, this study aimed to grade the forestlands and formulate the corresponding benchmark price to improve the statistical management efficiency of forestlands resources. We conducted our study in Longquan County, Zhejiang Province, where we implemented a survey and collected data focusing on forest resources planning. We classified forest resources in this area to establish a benchmark price using geographic information system (GIS) spatial analysis technology. Based on the characteristics of the survey data and the local economic and social situation, the correction coefficient of forestland price was formulated, and the economic value of forestlands resource assets was calculated accordingly. Results indicate that: (1) the forestland can be divided into five grades. The number and area of forestland increased firstly and then decreased from Grade I to Grade V. Forestland resources were concentrated in Grade II and Grade III, accounting for 62.0% of the total area. (2) The benchmark price of forestland in Longquan County was 10380, 9493, 8708, 7827 and 6771 Chinese Yuan (CNY)·hm−2 from Grade I to Grade V, respectively. The benchmark price of forestland in different grades could reflect the quality of forestland. (3) The price correction coefficient was formulated to match the benchmark price of forestland according to the forestland particularity and the external embodiment of forestland productivity level, and then, the economic value of forestland resource assets in the study area was calculated to be 22.48 million CNY accordingly. The method used in this study has the advantages of simple operation, high efficiency and a low cost. This study can provide methods for the evaluation and accounting of forestland resources, give technical support for the audit of natural resource assets of government departments, help to prepare the balance sheet of natural resources, and further prompt references for the statistical management of forest resources in similar regions and countries.
Rumen Bacteria Abundance and Fermentation Profile during Subacute Ruminal Acidosis and Its Modulation by Aspergillus oryzae Culture in RUSITEC System
Authors: Guo Tongqing , Guo Tao , Guo Long , Li Fei , Li Fadi , Ma Zhiyuan
Published: July 2022

This study aimed at characterizing changes in rumen bacteria abundance and fermentation profiles by artificial saliva (AS) pH, and at evaluating the potential modulatory role of Aspergillus oryzae culture (AOC) in a rumen simulation technique (RUSITEC) system. The treatment included high AS pH (pH 6.8) or low AS pH (pH 5.5) according to the McDougall’s method, and low AS pH was sustained by changing the composition of the AS (NaHCO3 from 9.8 to 1.96 g/L, Na2HPO4 from 9.3 to 1.86 g/L). In low AS pH condition, the diets contained either 0% AOC, 1.25% AOC, or 2.5% AOC. Therefore, there are four treatments: (1) high AS pH, 0% AOC (HASP); (2) low AS pH, 0% AOC (AOC0); (3) low AS pH, 1.25% AOC (AOC1); (4) low AS pH, 2.5% AOC (AOC2), respectively. The experimental diets were supplemented with 16 g basic diets with the forage to concentrate ratio of 40:60. The experiments were conducted two independent 13 days, with 9 days adaption periods and 4 days sample collection. The results showed that low AS pH decreased the degradabilites of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) (p < 0.05), which occurred due to a decreased abundance of fibrolytic Ruminococcus albus (p < 0.001). The total concentration of volatile fatty acid (VFA) and proportion of propionate were decreased in the low AS pH (p = 0.026) and tended to increase the molar proportion of butyrate (p = 0.086) and the ratio of acetate to propionate (p = 0.088). The abundances of phylum Firmicutes (p = 0.065) and Proteobacteria (p = 0.063) tended to be greater in low AS pH group than high AS pH group. Low AS pH increased the abundance of phylum Actinobacteria (p = 0.002) compared to the high AS pH and decreased the abundances of phylum Spirochaetes (p = 0.032). Compared with the high AS pH, low AS pH increased the abundances of Prevotella (p = 0.003), Pseudoscardovia (p = 0.001), Mitsuokella (p = 0.005), and Dialister (p = 0.047), and decreased the abundances of Olivibacter (p = 0.026), Ruminobacter (p = 0.025), Treponema (p = 0.037), and Sphaerochaeta (p = 0.027) at genus level. Under a severe SARA in RUSITEC, supplementation of 2.5% AOC increased OM degradability, the copy numbers of Selenomonas ruminantium and Fibrobacter succinogenes. These findings indicate that the reduction AS pH at 5.5 caused a strong shift in bacterial composition in rumen. In addition, the addition of AOC in diets increased the growth rate of certain rumen bacteria that digest fiber or utilize lactate under SARA condition in RUSITEC system.
Yeasts as Producers of Flavor Precursors during Cocoa Bean Fermentation and Their Relevance as Starter Cultures: A Review
Authors: Gutiérrez-Ríos Hugo Gabriel , Suárez-Quiroz Mirna Leonor , Hernández-Estrada Zorba Josué , Castellanos-Onorio Olaya Pirene , Alonso-Villegas Rodrigo , Rayas-Duarte Patricia , Cano-Sarmiento Cynthia , Figueroa-Hernández Claudia Yuritzi , González-Rios Oscar
Published: July 2022

During the fermentation of cocoa beans, the yeasts produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Through reactions associated with amino acid metabolism, yeasts generate important aroma precursors as acetate esters and fatty acid ethyl esters are essential in developing fruity flavors and aromas in the final product (usually chocolate). In addition, some yeasts may have pectinolytic and antifungal activity, which is desirable in the post-harvest process of cocoa. The main yeast species in cocoa fermentation are Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Pichia kudriavzevii, and Hanseniaspora opuntiae. These produce higher alcohols and acetyl-CoA to make acetate–esters, compounds that produce floral and fruity notes. However, there are still controversies in scientific reports because some mention that there are no significant differences in the sensory characteristics of the final product. Others mention that the fermentation of cocoa by yeast has a significant influence on improving the sensory attributes of the final product. However, using yeasts as starter cultures for cocoa bean fermentation is recommended to homogenize sensory attributes such as notes and flavors in chocolate.
Blockchain for Doping Control Applications in Sports: A Conceptual Approach
Authors: Pinto Flavio , Rahulamathavan Yogachandran , Skinner James
Published: July 2022

Doping is a well-known problem in competitive sports. Along the years, several cases have come to public, evidencing corrupt practices from within the sports environment. To guarantee fair play and prevent public health issues, anti-doping organizations and sports authorities are expected to cooperate in the fight against doping. To achieve this mission, doping-related data must be produced, stored, accessed, and shared in a secure, tamperproof, and privacy-preserving manner. This paper investigates the processes and tools established by the World Anti-Doping Agency for the global harmonization of doping control activities. From this investigation, it is possible to conclude that there is an inherent trust problem, in part due to a centralized data management paradigm and to the lack of fully digitalized processes. Therefore, this paper presents two main contributions: the concept of a multiorganizational decentralized data governance model and a blockchain-based design for one of the most sensitive data-sharing processes within the anti-doping ecosystem. Throughout this article, it is shown that the adoption of a permissioned blockchain can benefit the whole anti-doping community, creating more reliable processes for handling data, where privacy and security are enhanced.
Evaluation of Technical Efficiency in Exotic Carp Polyculture in Northern India: Conventional DEA vs. Bootstrapping Methods
Authors: Zhang Hongzhi , Nisar Ubair , Mu Yongtong
Published: July 2022

The paper adopts the conventional data envelopment analysis (DEA) and bootstrap procedure to analyze the technical efficiency, while tobit regression is applied to identify the factors affecting efficiencies of exotic fish polyculture in Jammu and Kashmir (India). According to the statistical analysis of the variables utilized, there was a lot of variability in the inputs being used by the farmers, with the most variation being in the lime input. The DEA estimated technical efficiency for the sample farms in Jammu and Kashmir is 0.9771 and 0.9741, respectively, with least technical inefficiency of 3%. The bias-corrected (bootstrapped) technical efficiencies found were slightly lower than the ones estimated by conventional DEA. Mean allocative and cost efficiencies for sample farms in the Jammu region were 92% and 75%, respectively, and 84% and 74%, respectively, for farmers in the Kashmir region. Farming experience, age, and education have favorable impacts on technical efficiency of farmers in the state, but family size showed negative impacts. Efficiency improvement will eventually lead to increase in the production providing better scope for marketed surplus. More fisheries extension is suggested for expanding the exotic fish culture in the state making the enterprise a more profitable venture.