bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Acute Ketone Supplementation on Time to Fatigue in NCAA Division I Cross-Country Athletes
Authors: Gonzalez Marcos , Jachino Caroline , Murphy Blake , Heinemann Kaitlyn , Magrini Mitchel A. , Bredahl Eric C. , Eckerson Joan M. , Siedlik Jacob A.
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the effect of a commercially available ketone supplement on heart rate (HR), perceived exertion (RPE), blood lactate, glucose, and ketone concentrations, along with time to fatigue (TTF) during a running task to voluntary fatigue. Twelve NCAA Division I cross-country athletes took part in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study. Bayesian methodologies were employed for all statistical analyses, and point estimates were determined to be statistically significant if the 95% highest-density intervals (HDI) excluded zero. TTF was not significantly different between conditions with a Meandiff = 48.7 ± 6.3 s (95% HDI: −335, 424) and a 0.39 probability derived from the posterior distribution, indicating the likelihood that the supplement would increase TTF compared to the placebo control. Lactate concentrations immediately post-exercise were significantly lower in the supplement trial relative to placebo with an estimated Meandiff = −4.6 ± 1.9 mmol; 95% HDI: −8.3, −0.9. There were no significant interaction effects observed for either blood glucose or ketone concentrations nor HR or RPE. These findings imply that the acute ingestion of ketones before running at lactate threshold pace has a low probability of increasing TTF in highly trained Division I runners.
Serum Cobalt Concentration and DNA Methylation Signatures in Women with Obesity
Authors: Noronha Natália Yumi , Diani Luísa Maria , Rodrigues Guilherme da Silva , Noma Isabela Harumi Yonehara , Pereira Vanessa Aparecida Batista , Pinhel Marcela Augusta de Souza , Watanabe Lígia Moriguchi , Morais Déborah Araújo , Barbosa Fernando , Nonino Carla Barbosa
Published: May 2024

Obesity, a multifactorial disorder, has been associated with alterations in metal metabolismand epigenetic modifications. This pilot case–control study aimed to investigate serum cobalt concentrations and associated DNA methylation patterns in women with obesity. Serum cobalt levels were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), revealing significantly higher cobalt concentrations in participants with normal weight than in participants with obesity. Additionally, DNA methylation analysis identified differentially methylated positions (DMPs) associated with cobalt exposure, and DMPs between groups highlighted hypomethylation in the top DMPs in individuals with obesity. Functional enrichment analysis of these DMPs unveiled potential pathways implicated in apoptosis, cancer, and metabolic signaling, warranting further investigation into the mechanistic links. This study provides preliminary insights into the interplay between cobalt exposure, DNA methylation, and potential implications for obesity management.
The Influence of Flock Variation, Sample Size, Flock Size and Mean Egg Count on the Accuracy and Precision of the Estimated Mean Egg Count
Authors: Stear Michael , Preston Sarah , Piedrafita David , Cullimore George , Donskow-Łysoniewska Katarzyna
Published: May 2024

The control of parasitic nematode infection in sheep and other animals is threatened by the evolution of drug resistance in parasite populations. One recommendation to delay the onset of drug resistance is to estimate the flock mean faecal egg counts by sampling a subpopulation and to treat sheep only when egg counts are high. However, there is little research on the accuracy and precision of estimates of the flock mean obtained from samples. In silico sampling was used to quantify the influence of flock variation, sample size, flock size and mean egg count on the accuracy and precision of the estimated mean egg count. Commonly used and recommended sampling schemes gave alarmingly imprecise estimates of the true flock means. Simply providing a point estimate of the flock egg count can be seriously misleading. Therefore, quantiles were provided for the proportion of estimates in a plausible scenario that is likely to require treatment. It may be more informative to use these quantiles to predict the probability that the true flock mean is sufficiently high to consider treatment.
Protective Effects of Pear Extract on Skin from In Vitro and In Vivo UVA-Induced Damage
Authors: Chu Thomas W. , Ho Ching-Chih , Hsu Yu-Jou , Lo Yuan-Hsin , Wu Nan-Lin , Cheng Yuan-Bin , Hong Mao-Xuan , Chang Der-Chen , Hung Chi-Feng
Published: May 2024

The ancient Chinese medical book “Compendium of Materia Medica” records that pears can relieve symptoms of respiratory-related diseases. Previous research has shown that pear Pyrus Pyrifolia (Burm.f.) Nakai has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-photoaging protective effects of Pyrus pyrifolia (Burm.f.) Nakai seed components have not been studied. Ultraviolet light (UV) causes skin inflammation, damages the skin barrier, and is an important cause of skin photoaging. Therefore, UV light with a wavelength of 365 nm was used to irradiate HaCaT and mice. Western blot, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and fluorescence imaging system were used to explore its anti-UVA mechanism. Dialysis membrane and nuclear magnetic resonance were used for the chemical constituent analysis of pear seed water extract (PSWE). We found that PSWE can significantly reduce UVA-induced skin cell death and mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation and can inhibit the mRNA expression of UVA-induced cytokines (including IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α). In addition, PSWE can also reduce the generation of oxidative stress within skin cells. In vivo experimental studies found that PSWE pretreatment effectively reduced transepidermal water loss, inflammation, redness, and dryness in hairless mice. The molecular weight of the active part of pear water extract is approximately 384. Based on the above results, we first found that pear seeds can effectively inhibit oxidative stress and damage caused by UVA. It is a natural extract with antioxidant properties and anti-aging activity that protects skin cells and strengthens the skin barrier.
Informed Ignorance as a Form of Epistemic Injustice
Authors: Cohen Noa , Garasic Mirko Daniel
Published: May 2024

Ignorance, or the lack of knowledge, appears to be steadily spreading, despite the increasing availability of information. The notion of informed ignorance herein proposed to describe the widespread position of being exposed to an abundance of information yet lacking relevant knowledge, which is tied to the exponential growth in misinformation driven by technological developments and social media. Linked to many of societies’ most looming catastrophes, from political polarization to the climate crisis, practices related to knowledge and information are deemed some of the most imminent and daunting modern threats, evidenced by the latest report of the World Economic Forum, which has named misinformation the most severe short-term global risk. This paper’s epistemic perspective links the properties of today’s information culture and the ways in which it interacts with individual capacities and limitations in current technological and socio-political contexts. Such a position is analyzed through the lens of epistemic principles as a contemporary epistemic phenotype that emerges from an environment of ill-adapted and excessive information inputs and leads to a distinctive type of social injustice that is primarily epistemic in nature. While equity and accessibility are widely discussed as important contributing factors to epistemic discrepancies, other overlooked but fundamental issues underlying epistemic injustices are considered, such as information manipulation, cognitive limitations, and epistemic degradation. To effectively face this elusive threat, we propose an inclusive viewpoint that harnesses knowledge from cognitive science, science and technology studies, and social epistemology to inform a unifying theory of its main impacts and driving forces. By adjusting a modern epistemic framework to the described phenomena, we intend to contextually outline its trajectory and possible means of containment based on a shared responsibility to maintain ethical epistemic standards. In a time of international unrest and mounting civil acts of violence, it is pertinent to emphasize the ethical principles of knowledge systems and authorities and suggest policy adaptations to maintain a social contract based on the shared values of truth and freedom.
Phenomenal Socialism
Authors: Chappell Sophie Grace
Published: May 2024

Phenomenal socialism says that what we actually, directly, literally perceive is only or primarily instances of high-level phenomenal properties; this paper argues for phenomenal socialism in the weaker, primarily version. Phenomenal socialism is the philosophy of perception that goes with recognitionalism, which is the metaethics that goes with epiphanies. The first part states the recognitionalist manifesto. The second part situates this manifesto relative to some more global concerns, about naturalism, perception, the metaphysics of value, and theory vs. anti-theory in ethics. The third part rehearses two familiar views about the possible contents of perceptual experience, Phenomenal Conservativism and Phenomenal Liberalism. It notes that the usual catalogue omits two other theoretical possibilities, Phenomenal Socialism and Phenomenal Nihilism, and it defends a watered-down form of Phenomenal Socialism from four main objections. The fourth part makes some connections with the epistemology of modality and with the role of the imagination.
The Role of Photophysics in Photochemistry
Authors: Poelman Dirk
Published: May 2024

Photochemistry is a broad subject [...]
Impact of Heat Stress on Broiler Chicken Production
Authors: Apalowo Oluwabunmi O. , Ekunseitan Deji A. , Fasina Yewande O.
Published: May 2024

Poultry farmers need to consider making adaptations now to help reduce cost, risk, and concern in the future; the industry’s high and unstable input costs, which result in losses, need to incentivize manufacturers to concentrate on efficient management, welfare, and health improvements, thereby creating premium and value-added products. Heat stress, a significant concern, particularly affects broiler chicken, which is vital for global meat supply in the dynamic field of poultry farming. Despite advances in breeding and management, these pressures have a negative influence on avian development, well-being, and overall health, threatening the poultry industry’s long-term viability. This study investigates the physiological reactions and production consequences of various heat conditions in the chicken business. It thoroughly investigates the complicated implications of heat stress, which has a negative impact on broiler performance and causes economic losses. This article investigates various dietary techniques, such as antioxidants, probiotics, amino acid balance, and vitamin supplementation, with the goal of improving chicken thermotolerance as part of a comprehensive stress reduction strategy. This assessment emphasizes the industry’s continuous commitment to sustainable practices by highlighting the need for more research to enhance methodology, investigate creative tactics, and address regional variances in heat stress.
Experimental Research of Ultrasonic Cavitation Evolution Mechanism and Model Optimization of RUREMM on Cylindrical Surface
Authors: Tong Wenjun , Li Lin
Published: May 2024

Micro-pits are widely used in the aerospace and tribology sectors on cylindrical surfaces and electrochemical micromachining which are of great significance for the high material removal rate, absence of tool wear, and mechanical stress, while facing significant challenges such as stray corrosion and low machining efficiency. Aiming at the above problems, this paper proposes a comprehensive method called radial ultrasonic rolling electrochemical micromachining (RUREMM) in which an ultrasonic field has been added onto the cylindrical surface. First, a theoretical model was created to gain the rules of the formation and collapse of bubbles in the liquid medium. Second, to analyze the optimal size of the cathode electrode, the COMSOL5.2 simulation software was proposed to research the influence of the electric field on the different dimensions, and the influences of different parameters in RUREMM on material depth/diameter ratio and roughness are explored through processing experiments. Research results found that the cavitation bubble undergoes expansion, compression, collapse and oscillation, where the max deviation is less than 12.5%. The optimized size was chosen as 200 × 200 μm2 and an electrode spacing of 800 μm through a series of electric field model simulation analyses. Relevant experiments show that the minimum pits with a width of 212.4 μm, a depth of 21.8 μm, and a surface roughness (Ra) of 0.253 μm were formed due to the optimized parameters. The research results can offer theoretical references for fabricating micro-pits with enhanced surface quality and processing precision on cylindrical surfaces.
Analysis of the Influence Mechanism of Nanomaterials on Spontaneous Imbibition of Chang 7 Tight Reservoir Core
Authors: Wang Xiaoxiang , Zhang Yang , Wu Xinmeng , Fan Xin , Zhou Desheng , Xu Jinze
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the impact of nanomaterials on different surfactant solutions. By measuring the parameters (including emulsification property, zeta potential, DLS, CA, IFT, etc.) of imbibition liquid system with nanoparticles and without nanoparticles, combining with imbibition experiments, the law and mechanism of improving the imbibition recovery of nanomaterials were obtained. The findings demonstrate that the nano-silica sol enhances the emulsification and dispersion of crude oil in the surfactant system, resulting in smaller and more uniform particle sizes for emulsified oil droplets. Non-ionic surfactant AEO-7 has the best effect under the synergistic action of nanomaterials. Zeta potential and DLS tests also showed that AEO-7 exhibits smaller particle sizes due to their insignificant electrostatic interaction with nanoparticles. Furthermore, the addition of nanomaterials enhances the hydrophilicity of core and reduces the interfacial tension. Under the synergistic action of nanoparticles, AEO-7 still showed the best enhanced core hydrophilicity (CA 0.61° after imbibition) and the lowest interfacial tension (0.1750 mN·m−1). In the imbibition experiment, the imbibition recovery of the system with nanomaterials is higher than that of the non-nanomaterials. The mixed system of AEO-7 and nano-silica sol ZZ-1 has the highest imbibition recovery (49.27%). Combined with the experiments above, it shows that nanomaterials have a good effect on enhancing the recovery rate of tight core, and the synergistic effect of non-ionic surfactant AEO-7 with nanomaterials is the best. Moreover, nanomaterials reduce adhesion work within the system while improving spontaneous imbibition recovery. These findings provide theoretical guidance for better understanding the mechanism behind nanomaterial-induced imbibition enhancement as well as improving tight oil’s imbibition recovery.
Piece-Wise Droop Controller for Enhanced Stability in DC-Microgrid-Based Electric Vehicle Fast Charging Station
Authors: Mounica Mallareddy , Rajpathak Bhooshan A. , Kolhe Mohan Lal , Naik K. Raghavendra , Moparthi Janardhan Rao , Kotha Sravan Kumar
Published: May 2024

The need for public fast electric vehicle charging station (FEVCS) infrastructure is growing to meet the zero-emission goals of the transportation sector. However, the large charging demand of the EV fleet may adversely impact the grid’s stability and reliability. To improve grid stability and reliability, the development of a DC microgrid (MG) leveraging renewable energy sources to supply the energy demands of FEVCSs is the sustainable solution. Balancing the intermittent EV charging demand and fluctuating renewable energy generation with the stable DC bus voltage of a DC MG is a challenging objective. To address this objective, a piece-wise droop control strategy is proposed in this work. The proposed scheme regulates DC bus voltage and power sharing with droop value updating in a region-based load current distribution. Voltage compensation in individual regions is carried out to further improve the degree of freedom. In this paper, the performance of the proposed strategy is evaluated with the consideration of real-time solar PV dynamics and EV load dynamics. Further, to showcase the effectiveness of the proposed strategy, a comparative analysis with a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller against various dynamic EV load scenarios is carried out, and the results are validated through a hardware-in-loop experimental setup. Despite the intermittent source and EV load dynamics, the proposed piece-wise droop control can maintain voltage regulation with less than 1% deviation.
Research on a Sensorless ADRC Vector Control Method for a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Based on the Luenberger Observer
Authors: Zhang Pan , Shi Zhaoyao , Yu Bo , Qi Haijiang
Published: May 2024

A sensorless vector active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) method for permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM) utilizing a Luenberger observer is presented. This method aims to address the challenges associated with weak active disturbances, substantial steady-state speed amplitude fluctuations, and difficulty in achieving a balance between overshoot and speed control in the sensorless PMSM control system. Mathematical models of the Luenberger observer and the ADRC were analyzed, leading to the proposal of a second-order ADRC control method based on the Luenberger observer. A mathematical model of the permanent PMSM has been introduced. Additionally, the necessary conditions for the convergence of the Luenberger observer were derived and examined. The allowable range of error feedback gain values was determined, and rotor position data were acquired using a phase-locked loop. The principle of the ADRC was analyzed, and the ADRC simulation results, along with the PI simulation results, were detailed. When the target speed is 1000 r/min, the steady-state error and load disturbance resistance of the ADRC control method outperform those of the PI control method. Finally, the control method was experimentally tested on an STM32F4 chip, demonstrating the advantages of small steady-state error and strong active disturbance ability.
CoM-ZSM5 (M = Zn and Ni) Zeolites for an Oxygen Evolution Reaction in Alkaline Media
Authors: Milikić Jadranka , Stojanović Srna , Rondović Katarina , Damjanović-Vasilić Ljiljana , Rac Vladislav , Šljukić Biljana
Published: May 2024

An ion-exchange procedure of synthetic zeolite ZSM-5 (Si/Al = 15) was used to prepare three cobalt ZSM-5 zeolites (CoM-ZSM5 (M = Zn and Ni)) that were examined for OERs in alkaline media. The structural, morphological, and surface properties of the prepared materials were studied by X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, and low-temperature nitrogen adsorption. All three electrocatalysts showed OER activity where CoNi-ZSM5 presented the highest current density (9.5 mA cm−2 at 2 V), the lowest Tafel slope (134 mV dec−1), and the lowest resistances of the charge transfer reaction (31.5 Ω). Overpotential (ηonset) at an onset potential of 410 mV for both CoNi-ZSM5 and Co-ZSM5 and 440 mV for CoZn-ZSM5 electrodes was observed. Co-ZSM5 showed somewhat lower OER catalytic activity than CoNi-ZSM5, while CoZn-ZSM5 demonstrated the lowest OER catalytic activity. The Rct of CoZn-ZSM5 is significantly higher than the Rct of CoNi-ZSM5, which could lead to their different OER activities. Good OER stability and low price are the main advantages of the synthesized CoM-ZSM5 samples in this study.
Numerical Investigation on Alkaline-Surfactant-Polymer Alternating CO2 Flooding
Authors: Li Weirong , Wei Xin , Wang Zhengbo , Liu Weidong , Ding Bing , Dong Zhenzhen , Pan Xu , Lin Keze , Yi Hongliang
Published: May 2024

For over four decades, carbon dioxide (CO2) has been instrumental in enhancing oil extraction through advanced recovery techniques. One such method, water alternating gas (WAG) injection, while effective, grapples with limitations like gas channeling and gravity segregation. To tackle the aforementioned issues, this paper proposes an upgrade coupling method named alkaline-surfactant-polymer alternating gas (ASPAG). ASP flooding and CO2 are injected alternately into the reservoir to enhance the recovery of the WAG process. The uniqueness of this method lies in the fact that polymers could help profile modification, CO2 would miscible mix with oil, and alkaline surfactant would reduce oil–water interfacial tension (IFT). To analyze the feasibility of ASPAG, a couples model considering both gas flooding and ASP flooding processes is established by using the CMG-STARS (Version 2021) to study the performance of ASPAG and compare the recovery among ASPAG, WAG, and ASP flooding. Our research delved into the ASPAG’s adaptability across reservoirs varying in average permeability, interlayer heterogeneity, formation rhythmicity, and fluid properties. Key findings include that ASPAG surpasses the conventional WAG in sweep and displacement efficiency, elevating oil recovery by 12–17%, and in comparison to ASP, ASPAG bolsters displacement efficiency, leading to a 9–11% increase in oil recovery. The primary flooding mechanism of ASPAG stems from the ASP slug’s ability to diminish the interfacial tension, enhancing the oil and water mobility ratio, which is particularly efficient in medium-high permeability layers. Through sensitivity analysis, ASPAG is best suited for mid-high-permeability reservoirs characterized by low crude oil viscosity and a composite reverse sedimentary rhythm. This study offers invaluable insights into the underlying mechanisms and critical parameters that influence the alkaline-surfactant-polymer alternating gas method’s success for enhanced oil recovery. Furthermore, it unveils an innovative strategy to boost oil recovery in medium-to-high-permeability reservoirs.
Investigation on Synergism and Its Influence Parameters between Coal and Biomass during Co-Gasification Based on Aspen Plus
Authors: Chen Jinbo , Jiang Peng , Chen Yipei , Liu Shuai
Published: May 2024

The co-gasification of coal and biomass offers numerous benefits, including improved gasification efficiency, reduced pollution emissions, and the utilization of renewable resources. However, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the synergistic effects of, and influence parameters on, coal–biomass co-gasification. This study employs Aspen Plus simulations to investigate the co-gasification behavior of coal and corn straw, focusing on the synergistic effects and the impact of various operating conditions. A synergistic coefficient is defined to quantify the interactions between the feedstocks. Sensitivity analyses explore the effects of gasification temperature (800–1300 °C), coal rank (lignite, bituminous, anthracite), biomass mass fraction (0–50%), oxygen-to-carbon ratio, and steam-to-carbon ratio on the synergistic coefficients of effective syngas content (CO + H2), specific oxygen consumption, specific fuel consumption, and cold gas efficiency. The results reveal an optimal biomass mass fraction of 10% for maximizing cold gas efficiency, with the syngas primarily consisting of H2 (36.8%) and CO (61.6%). Higher gasification temperatures (up to 1200 °C) improve syngas quality and process efficiency, while higher-rank coals exhibit better gasification performance compared to lignite. Optimal oxygen-to-carbon and steam-to-carbon ratios are identified for maximizing syngas yield and quality. These findings provide valuable guidance for the design and optimization of industrial coal–biomass co-gasification processes, enabling the maximization of syngas quality, process efficiency, and resource utilization.
Enhancing Data Preservation and Security in Industrial Control Systems through Integrated IOTA Implementation
Authors: Lin Iuon-Chang , Tseng Pai-Ching , Chen Pin-Hsiang , Chiou Shean-Juinn
Published: May 2024

Within the domain of industrial control systems, safeguarding data integrity stands as a pivotal endeavor, especially in light of the burgeoning menace posed by malicious tampering and potential data loss. Traditional data storage paradigms, tethered to physical hard disks, are fraught with inherent susceptibilities, underscoring the pressing need for the deployment of resilient preservation frameworks. This study delves into the transformative potential offered by distributed ledger technology (DLT), with a specific focus on IOTA, within the expansive landscape of the Internet of Things (IoT). Through a meticulous examination of the intricacies inherent to data transmission protocols, we present a novel paradigm aimed at fortifying data security. Our approach advocates for the strategic placement of IOTA nodes on lower-level devices, thereby streamlining the transmission pathway and curtailing vulnerabilities. This concerted effort ensures the seamless preservation of data confidentiality and integrity from inception to storage, bolstering trust in the convergence of IoT and DLT technologies. By embracing proactive measures, organizations can navigate the labyrinthine terrain of data management, effectively mitigate risks, and cultivate an environment conducive to innovation and progress.
Human–Robot Cooperation Control Strategy Design Based on Trajectory Deformation Algorithm and Dynamic Movement Primitives for Lower Limb Rehabilitation Robots
Authors: Zhou Jie , Sun Yao , Luo Laibin , Zhang Wenxin , Wei Zhe
Published: May 2024

Compliant physical interactions, interactive learning, and robust position control are crucial to improving the effectiveness and safety of rehabilitation robots. This paper proposes a human–robot cooperation control strategy (HRCCS) for lower limb rehabilitation robots. The high-level trajectory planner of the HRCCS consists of a trajectory generator, a trajectory learner, a desired trajectory predictor, and a soft saturation function. The trajectory planner can predict and generate a smooth desired trajectory through physical human–robot interaction (pHRI) in a restricted joint space and can learn the desired trajectory using the locally weighted regression method. Moreover, a triple-step controller was designed to be the low-level position controller of the HRCCS to ensure that each joint tracks the desired trajectory. A nonlinear disturbance observer is used to observe and compensate for total disturbances. The radial basis function neural networks (RBFNN) approximation law and robust term are adopted to compensate for observation errors. The simulation results indicate that the HRCCS is robust and can achieve compliant pHRI and interactive trajectory learning. Therefore, the HRCCS has the potential to be used in rehabilitation robots and other fields involving pHRI.
“Once Again It Becomes a Friend in Times of Adversity”: A Qualitative Exploration of Interrelationships between Anorexia Nervosa and Trauma over Ten Years
Authors: Berry Sallee , Hay Phillipa , Conti Janet
Published: May 2024

Background: The majority of research on the relationship between anorexia nervosa (AN) and trauma has been cross-sectional and quantitative. This study aimed to qualitatively explore how this relationship may shift over time. Methods: A community sample of nine women with a lived experience of AN and trauma were interviewed three times over ten years (1997–2007). Thematic analysis and narrative emplotment were utilised to construct themes both within and across interview transcripts. Results: AN was found to function as a way of coping with trauma (Theme 1), and also became a traumatic experience in and of itself (Theme 2). Longitudinal shifts were identified where the women moved away from AN as a way of coping to loosen the stronghold it had over their lives. Conclusions: This study illuminated how the women’s relationship with AN shifted over time, including the functions and meanings ascribed to AN, and the resilience of women to exit critical stages of AN and achieve meaningful change in their lives over the long term. A further novel finding was that the coping function AN served in early years of life shifted over time as they navigated additional traumas in adulthood and new and diverse ways of coping.
The Attachment-Caregiving Questionnaire as a Personality Inventory Sensitive to Psychological Vulnerabilities: A Pilot Study
Authors: Gagliardi Marcantonio , Mitrofanova Elina
Published: May 2024

Evolution enabled the human species to form attachment relationships, where a caregiver looks after a needy attacher. In early-life interactions with a parent-caregiver, the child-attacher acquires adaptive durable information—the attachment dimensions—which become part of their personality. As such, the dimensions affect vulnerability to psychological conditions, but the precise nature of this link remains controversial. With this pilot study, we addressed this issue. Considering a sample of 67 psychotherapy patients, we tested (H1) the expected connections between dimensions and specific vulnerability to psychological conditions and (H2) the capability of a self-report to detect such links. We relied on the Attachment-Caregiving Questionnaire (ACQ) to measure seven dimensions and test the hypotheses by (1) investigating the correlation between the patients’ dimensions and their symptoms and (2) building logistic regression models to test whether the dimensions can predict vulnerability to specific symptoms. Our analysis demonstrated that almost all expected dimensions could predict vulnerability to related symptoms. Given the limited sample size, one dimension could not be connected to any symptoms. This study provides preliminary support for the connections between attachment dimensions and vulnerability to clinical conditions and the ACQ’s capability in detecting such links. Further testing is required.
Generalized Linear Driving Force Formulas for Diffusion and Reaction in Porous Catalysts
Authors: Szukiewicz Mirosław K. , Chmiel-Szukiewicz Elżbieta
Published: May 2024

Approximate models are a fast and most often precise tool for determining the effectiveness factor for heterogeneous catalysis processes that are realized in the real world. They are also frequently applied as robust transient models describing the work of a single catalyst pellet or as a part of a more complex model, for example, a reactor model, where mass balances for the gas phase and solid phase are necessary. So far, approximate models for diffusion and reaction processes have been presented for processes described by a single balance equation. In the present work, approximate models without the mentioned limitation are presented and discussed. In addition, simple rules are shown for the development of other complex approximate models without tedious derivation in the complex domain. The formulas considered in this work are typical long-time approximations of the transient process. The accuracy is good, especially in the range of small and intermediate Thiele modulus values.
Analyzing the Influence of Risk Models and Investor Risk-Aversion Disparity on Portfolio Selection in Community Solar Projects: A Comparative Case Study
Authors: Shakouri Mahmoud , Nnaji Chukwuma , Banihashemi Saeed , Nguyen Khoung Le
Published: May 2024

This study examines the impact of risk models and investors’ risk aversion on the selection of community solar portfolios. Various risk models to account for the volatility in the electrical power output of community solar, namely variance (Var), SemiVariance (SemiVar), mean absolute deviation (MAD), and conditional value at risk (CVaR), were considered. A statistical model based on modern portfolio theory was employed to simulate investors’ risk aversion in the context of community solar portfolio selection. The results of this study showed that the choice of risk model that aligns with investors’ risk-aversion level plays a key role in realizing more return and safeguarding against volatility in power generation. In particular, the findings of this research revealed that the CVaR model provides higher returns at the cost of greater volatility in power generation compared to other risk models. In contrast, the MAD model offered a better tradeoff between risk and return, which can appeal more to risk-averse investors. Based on the simulation results, a new approach was proposed for optimizing the portfolio selection process for investors with divergent risk-aversion levels by averaging the utility functions of investors and identifying the most probable outcome.
YOLOv8-MU: An Improved YOLOv8 Underwater Detector Based on a Large Kernel Block and a Multi-Branch Reparameterization Module
Authors: Jiang Xing , Zhuang Xiting , Chen Jisheng , Zhang Jian , Zhang Yiwen
Published: May 2024

Underwater visual detection technology is crucial for marine exploration and monitoring. Given the growing demand for accurate underwater target recognition, this study introduces an innovative architecture, YOLOv8-MU, which significantly enhances the detection accuracy. This model incorporates the large kernel block (LarK block) from UniRepLKNet to optimize the backbone network, achieving a broader receptive field without increasing the model’s depth. Additionally, the integration of C2fSTR, which combines the Swin transformer with the C2f module, and the SPPFCSPC_EMA module, which blends Cross-Stage Partial Fast Spatial Pyramid Pooling (SPPFCSPC) with attention mechanisms, notably improves the detection accuracy and robustness for various biological targets. A fusion block from DAMO-YOLO further enhances the multi-scale feature extraction capabilities in the model’s neck. Moreover, the adoption of the MPDIoU loss function, designed around the vertex distance, effectively addresses the challenges of localization accuracy and boundary clarity in underwater organism detection. The experimental results on the URPC2019 dataset indicate that YOLOv8-MU achieves an mAP@0.5 of 78.4%, showing an improvement of 4.0% over the original YOLOv8 model. Additionally, on the URPC2020 dataset, it achieves 80.9%, and, on the Aquarium dataset, it reaches 75.5%, surpassing other models, including YOLOv5 and YOLOv8n, thus confirming the wide applicability and generalization capabilities of our proposed improved model architecture. Furthermore, an evaluation on the improved URPC2019 dataset demonstrates leading performance (SOTA), with an mAP@0.5 of 88.1%, further verifying its superiority on this dataset. These results highlight the model’s broad applicability and generalization capabilities across various underwater datasets.
Approaching Electroencephalographic Pathological Spikes in Terms of Solitons
Authors: Tozzi Arturo
Published: May 2024

A delicate balance between dissipative and nonlinear forces allows traveling waves termed solitons to preserve their shape and energy for long distances without steepening and flattening out. Solitons are so widespread that they can generate both destructive waves on oceans’ surfaces and noise-free message propagation in silica optic fibers. They are naturally observed or artificially produced in countless physical systems at very different coarse-grained scales, from solar winds to Bose–Einstein condensates. We hypothesize that some of the electric oscillations detectable by scalp electroencephalography (EEG) could be assessed in terms of solitons. A nervous spike must fulfill strict mathematical and physical requirements to be termed a soliton. They include the proper physical parameters like wave height, horizontal distance and unchanging shape; the appropriate nonlinear wave equations’ solutions and the correct superposition between sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal waves. After a thorough analytical comparison with the EEG traces available in the literature, we argue that solitons bear striking similarities with the electric activity recorded from medical conditions like epilepsies and encephalopathies. Emerging from the noisy background of the normal electric activity, high-amplitude, low-frequency EEG soliton-like pathological waves with relatively uniform morphology and duration can be observed, characterized by repeated, stereotyped patterns propagating on the hemispheric surface of the brain over relatively large distances. Apart from the implications for the study of cognitive activities in the healthy brain, the theoretical possibility to treat pathological brain oscillations in terms of solitons has powerful operational implications, suggesting new therapeutical options to counteract their detrimental effects.
Defining and Researching “Dynamic Systems of Systems”
Authors: Adler Rasmus , Elberzhager Frank , Falcão Rodrigo , Siebert Julien
Published: May 2024

Digital transformation is advancing across industries, enabling products, processes, and business models that change the way we communicate, interact, and live. It radically influences the evolution of existing systems of systems (SoSs), such as mobility systems, production systems, energy systems, or cities, that have grown over a long time. In this article, we discuss what this means for the future of software engineering based on the results of a research project called DynaSoS. We present the data collection methods we applied, including interviews, a literature review, and workshops. As one contribution, we propose a classification scheme for deriving and structuring research challenges and directions. The scheme comprises two dimensions: scope and characteristics. The scope motivates and structures the trend toward an increasingly connected world. The characteristics enhance and adapt established SoS characteristics in order to include novel aspects and to better align them with the structuring of research into different research areas or communities. As a second contribution, we present research challenges using the classification scheme. We have observed that a scheme puts research challenges into context, which is needed for interpreting them. Accordingly, we conclude that our proposals contribute to a common understanding and vision for engineering dynamic SoS.
A Multi-Stage Approach to Assessing the Echo-Tech Feasibility of a Hybrid SAM-CREST Model for Solar PV Power Plants in Maryland, USA
Authors: Kim Youngil , Skaggs Allie
Published: May 2024

Maryland is actively working towards doubling its Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) target, aiming to increase the share of renewable energy from 25% by 2020 to 50% by 2030. Furthermore, Maryland stands out as a state that strongly supports solar initiatives, offering incentives and specialized programs to assist residents in adopting solar energy solutions. The paper presents a multi-stage approach: Stage 1—Location Selection Process, Stage 2—Technical Feasibility Study, and Stage 3—Economical Feasibility Study. In Stage 1, the study focuses on three potential solar farm locations in Maryland: Westover, Princess Anne, and Eden. Stages 2 and 3 involve a feasibility assessment with detailed technical analysis using the NREL System Advisor Model (SAM) and PVWatts to determine monthly power to the grid and Energy Yield. Subsequently, economic feasibility is assessed using the NREL Clean Renewable Energy Estimation Simulation Tool (CREST), focusing on competitive levelized costs of energy (LCOE), payback time, and cumulative cash flows. Results indicate that all three locations exhibit promising solar irradiance levels, system outputs, and potential energy yields. Due to high solar irradiation, the Westover area has the highest energy yield at 1583.13 kWh/kW, while Princess Anne boasts the highest system output at 333.59 GWh. The economic evaluation suggests that all three locations become profitable within a two-year payback time, with competitive levelized costs of energy (LCOE). Westover emerges as the most cost-effective option at 5.99 cents/kWh, attributed to its higher solar irradiation values and energy yield compared to Princess Anne and Eden. Cumulative cash flows provide insights into long-term profitability, with Princess Anne, MD, having the highest Cumulative Cash Flow over 25 years at $183,383,304. By evaluating technical and economic aspects, this feasibility study offers quantitative insights to guide decision-making for the installation of Solar PV, considering both technological and economic feasibility.
Pleural Effusion following Yoga: A Report of Delayed Spontaneous Chylothorax and a Brief Review of Unusual Cases in the Literature
Authors: Hunduma Gabriel , Ferrari Paolo Albino , Alreshaid Farouk , Kiran Tayyeba , Alzetani Aiman , Tamburrini Alessandro
Published: May 2024

Chylothorax is a rare condition where the extravasated chyle accumulates into the pleural space. It is most commonly associated with malignancies, infective or inflammatory disorders and iatrogenic causes. Extremely rarely, it could occur spontaneously. We present the case of a healthy 40-year-old woman who presented with acute right shoulder and neck pain associated with shortness of breath and loss of consciousness. This was preceded by a yoga class two weeks prior. Chest imaging showed right pleural effusion, and tapping revealed a milky fluid which was confirmed to be chylothorax. Conservative management failed and the patient was successfully treated with video-assisted thoracoscopic drainage, thoracic duct ligation and mechanical pleurodesis. Chylothorax association with yoga is not reported in the literature.
Phenotyping Wheat Kernel Symmetry as a Consequence of Different Agronomic Practices
Authors: Aniskina Tatiana S. , Sudarikov Kirill A. , Prisazhnoy Nikita A. , Besaliev Ishen N. , Panfilov Alexander A. , Reger Nelli S. , Kormilitsyna Tatyana , Novikova Antonina A. , Gulevich Alexander A. , Lebedev Svyatoslav V. , Vernik Pyotr A. , Baranova Ekaterina N.
Published: May 2024

The use of instrumental methods of analysis in the assessment of indices that record changes in symmetry in the structure of grains to evaluate the quality of durum and soft wheat grain is currently considered a search tool that will allow us to obtain previously unavailable data by finding correlations associated with differences in the shape and ratio of starch granules in conditionally symmetrical and asymmetrical wheat fruits (kernels) formed in different field conditions and with different genotypes. Indicators that had previously shown their effectiveness were used to analyze the obviously complex unique material obtained as a result of growing under critically unique sowing conditions in 2022, which affected the stability of grain development and filling. For the evaluation, a typical agronomic comparative experiment was chosen, which was used to evaluate the soil tillage practices (fallow, non-moldboard loosening, and plowing) and sowing dates (early and after excessive rainfalls), which made it possible to analyze a wider range of factors influencing the studied indices. The soil tillage methods were found to affect the uniformity of kernel fullness and their symmetry, and the sowing dates did not lead to significant differences. This study presents detailed changes in the shape of the middle cut of a wheat kernel, associated with assessing the efficiency of kernel filling and the symmetrical distribution of storage substances under the influence of external and internal physical factors that affect the formation of the wheat kernel. The data obtained may be of interest to breeders and developers of predictive phenotyping programs for cereal grain and seeds of other crops, as well as plant physiologists.
New Upgrade to Improve Operation of Conventional Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Cáceres Manuel , González Mayans Alexis Raúl , Firman Andrés , Vera Luis , de la Casa Higueras Juan
Published: May 2024

The incorporation of distributed generation with photovoltaic systems entails a drawback associated with intermittency in the generation capacity due to variations in the solar resource. In general, this aspect limits the level of penetration that this resource can have without producing an appreciable impact on the quality of the electrical supply. With the intention of reducing its intermittency, this paper presents the characterization of a methodology for maximizing grid-connected PV system operation under low-solar-radiation conditions. A new concept of a hybrid system based on a constant current source and capable of integrating different sources into a conventional grid-connected PV system is presented. Results of an experimental characterization of a low-voltage grid–PV system connection with a DC/DC converter for constant-current source application are shown in zero and non-zero radiation conditions. The results obtained demonstrate that the proposed integration method works efficiently without causing appreciable effects on the parameters that define the quality of the electrical supply. In this way, it is possible to efficiently incorporate another source of energy, taking advantage of the characteristics of the GCPVS without further interventions in the system. It is expected that this topology could help to integrate other generation and/or storage technologies into already existing PV systems, opening a wide field of research in the PV systems area.
Low Genetic Diversity of Plasmodium vivax Circumsporozoite Surface Protein in Clinical Isolates from Southern Thailand
Authors: Khulmanee Tachin , Thita Thanyapit , Kritsiriwutinan Kanyanan , Boonyuen Usa , Saai Aminoh , Inkabjan Kanjana , Chakrabarti Rimi , Rathod Pradipsinh K. , Krudsood Srivicha , Mungthin Mathirut , Patrapuvich Rapatbhorn
Published: May 2024

The genetic diversity within the circumsporozoite surface protein (PvCSP) of Plasmodium vivax, the predominant malaria species in Thailand, is primarily observed in the northwestern region along the Thailand–Myanmar border. However, as P. vivax cases shift to southern provinces, particularly Yala Province near the Thailand–Malaysia border, PvCSP diversity remains understudied. Between 2018 and 2020, 89 P. vivax isolates were collected in Yala Province, a significant malaria hotspot. Employing polymerase chain reaction amplification, restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), and DNA sequencing, the gene encoding PvCSP (Pvcsp) was analyzed. All Yala P. vivax isolates belonged to the VK210 type, distinct from strains in the western region near the Myanmar border. The central repeat region of Pvcsp revealed two common peptide repeat motifs—GDRADGQPA and GDRAAGQPA—across all southern isolates. Sequence analysis identified two subtypes, with S1 more prevalent (92%) than S2 (8%). This study underscores the limited diversity of VK210 variants of P. vivax populations in southern Thailand. These baseline findings facilitate monitoring for potential new parasite variants, aiding in the future control and management of P. vivax in the region.