bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linear Fiber Laser Configurations for Optical Concentration Sensing in Liquid Solutions
Authors: Soares Liliana , Pérez-Herrera Rosa Ana , Novais Susana , Ferreira António , Silva Susana , Frazão Orlando
Published: February 2024

In this study, different configurations based on linear fiber lasers were proposed and experimentally demonstrated to measure the concentration of paracetamol liquid solutions in a range of 52.61 to 201.33 g/kg. The optical gain was provided by a commercial bidirectional Erbium-Doped Fiber Amplifier (EDFA) and the linear cavity was obtained using two commercial Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBGs). The main difference of each configuration was the coupling ratio of the optical coupler used to extract the system signal. The sensing head corresponded to a Single-Mode Fiber (SMF) tip that worked as an intensity sensor. The results reveal that, despite the optical coupler used (50:50, 60:40, 70:30 or 80:20), all the configurations reached the laser condition, however, the concentration sensing was only possible using a laser drive current near to the threshold value. The configurations using a 70:30 and an 80:20 optical coupler allowed to perform paracetamol concentration measurements with a higher sensitivity of (-3.00±0.24) pW/(g/kg). In terms of resolution, the highest value obtained was 1.75 g/kg, when it was extracted 20% of the output power to the linear cavity fiber laser configuration.
Method of Performance Assessment of Lubricant Compositions Containing Nano-Additives Used for Wheel–Rail Pair
Authors: Kosarchuk Valerii , Chausov Mykola , Tverdomed Volodymyr , Lopatko Kostyantyn , Lukoševičius Vaidas
Published: February 2024

A new method is proposed for performance assessment of lubricating compositions based on industrial lubricants that contain nano-additives of different chemical composition for higher wear resistance of heavy-loaded steel friction pairs. The method is based on the joint analysis of the experimental data on the wear kinetics, change of the relative hardness, and damage in the surface layers of the metal of friction pairs. The level of structural damage to the materials in the contact zone is determined by using the statistical parameters of dispersion of the hardness values. The paper investigates the known experimental results of assessment of the level of damage to structural materials of various grades under the conditions of long-term, cyclic, static loading, and lubricated friction. It is demonstrated that the structural changes occurring in the materials during loading correlate to the changes in the statistical dispersion characteristics of hardness measurement results. Experimental substantiation of the method is carried out for steel friction pairs using lubricating compositions based on industrial oil Greaseline Lithium BIO Rail 000 by AIMOL and nano-additives of copper of M2 grade, magnesium alloy of MA2 grade, aluminum alloy of Al-Mg system, graphite of medium carbon steel grades, i.e. rail and industrial. Under system of indicators presented in the paper, the highest efficiency in terms of increase in the wear resistance of steel friction pairs is demonstrated by the lubricating composition based on industrial lubricant with the additive of nano-powder made of rail steel, as it provided the optimum value of friction coefficient, minimum damage and wear of friction surface.
Ungrading Façade Systems, the Art of Simplification as a Criterion
Authors: Martín Goñi Paula , Ferrés Padró Xavier
Published: February 2024

The resolution of façade construction is not considered in the design process, as it can be expressed by complex technological innovations that emphasize the beauty of buildings. Nevertheless, resorting to this type of technology solution may not always be necessary. This study demonstrates this hypothesis through the investigation of five iconic case studies emphasizing the construction system analysis and the revelation of the brainwave idea. The brainwave idea defines the construction innovation that enables the detail by simplification rather than sophistication. Notable, unlike complex technological innovation, standard systems or elements applied strategically are considered little innovations to facilitate the resolutions of the façade complexity. Many of these innovations occur during the visual and constructive prototype progress required to validate the proposed solution and its performance. Therefore, real-scale prototype development that operates as a real-scale laboratory is necessary to correct and validate successive solutions.
A Three-Phase Multilevel Inverter Synthesized with 31-Levels and Op-Timal Gating Angles to Supply Static and Dynamic Loads
Authors: Hussein Taha Ahmad , Ishak Dahaman , Tarnini Mohamad
Published: February 2024

A three-phase multilevel inverter (MLI) synthesized with 31-levels in the output voltage is used to provide ac supply to a three-phase, squirrel-cage induction motor. The gating angles required for thirty power switches in MLI are optimized by both Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Gray Wolf Op-timization (GWO). In the optimization technique, the optimal angles are determined by solving the trigonometric equations from the Fourier analysis for targeting minimum total harmonic distortion (THD) at the MLI output. Simulation model and experimental prototype are developed for performance analysis and validation. The results obtained demonstrate that the MLI is effec-tively able to produce 31-levels of three-phase ac output voltages with THD not exceeding 5% when loaded with a resistive load and a three-phase induction motor. The voltages and currents are measured and recorded for different loads and operating conditions, including the amount of energy consumed by the loads, as well as frequency analysis, which shows the absence of most of the triple harmonics that have a negative impact on the efficiency of the inverter.
Fast 50 Hz Updated Static Infrared Positioning System Based on Triangulation Method
Authors: Ciężkowski Maciej , Kociszewski Rafał
Published: February 2024

One of the important issues being explored in Industry 4.0 is a collaborative mobile robots. This collaboration requires precise navigation systems, especially indoor navigation systems where GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) cannot be used. To enable precise localization of robots, different variations of navigation systems are being developed, mainly based on trilateration and triangulation methods. Triangulation systems are distinguished by the fact that they allow precise determination of an object’s orientation, which is important for mobile robots. An important feature of positioning systems is the frequency of position updates based on measurements. For most systems it is 10-20 Hz. In our work, we propose a high-speed 50 Hz positioning system based on the triangulation method with infrared transmitters and receivers. In addition, our system is completely static, i.e. it has no moving/rotating measurement sensors, which makes it more resistant to disturbances (caused by vibrations, wear and tear of components, etc.). In this paper we describe the principle of the system as well as its design. Finally, we present tests of the built system, which show centimeter positioning accuracy with a position update frequency of 50 Hz.
Biological Peripartum Predictors of Postpartum Depression: Protocol for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alhaj Ahmad Marwa , Al Awar Shamsa , Sayed Sallma Gehan , Alkaabi Meera , Smetanina Darya , Statsenko Yauhen , Zareba Kornelia
Published: February 2024

During the postpartum period, psychological disorders may emerge. Aims and objectives: 1 With the current study, we aim to raise awareness among healthcare professionals about postpartum depression (PPD) in women. To reach the aim we will perform the following tasks: (i) identify biological peripartum risk factors and calculate pooled prevalence of PPD for each of them; (ii) explore the strength of relationship between peripartum risk factors and PPD; (iii) rank the predictors by their prevalence and magnitude of association with PPD. The knowledge obtained will support the development and implementation of early diagnostic and preventive strategies. Methods and analysis: we will systematically go through peer-reviewed publications available in the PubMed search engine and online databases: Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE. The scope of the review will include articles published any time in English, Arabic, or Polish. We will deduplicate literature sources with the Covidence software, evaluate heterogeneity between the study results, and critically assess credibility of selected articles with the Joanna Briggs Institute’s bias evaluation tool. The information to extract is incidence rate, prevalence, and odds ratio between each risk factor and PPD. A comprehensive analysis of the extracted data will allow us to achive the objectives. The study findings will contribute to risk stratification and more effective management of PPD in women.
Did the Natural Selection of Humans and of Animals Occur during a “Pregnancy” of Time, Space, Matter and Life?
Authors: Carp Theodor-Nicolae
Published: February 2024

The theories of Evolution and Big Bang have brought a major impact upon the scientific and societal perception upon the origins, abilities and roles of mankind on Earth. It is conclusively evident that Mother Nature and the physical realm is autonomous and all phenomena in the world occur without an imposition against the “free will” of such events and patterns. Nevertheless, this extent of freedom does not imply that life on Earth represents an accident and has no purpose. By careful analysis of ancient religious texts, it can be suggested even otherwise, that it is especially free will that is offered as a gift from outside of the physical dimensions of existence, with the purpose of a continuous edification and improvement of the overall life conditions and of the human perception. It may be that the multi-generational focus on improvement and progress have been misattributed as a long-term evolution of species, that humans came from animal ancestors and that there is a blurred line associating humans with animals. Furthermore, it may be that scientists based their suggestions that no outside Creator would have brought the Earth into existence on physical perspectives, when the extra-dimensional process of Creation implies that all elements of the physical existence undergo a process of Creation from the outside, where time, space and physical matter do not exist, in spite of such elements possibly reflecting unseen elements of the meta-physical world.
Training of the neural network system in the task of detecting blue stain in a sawmill wood inspection system
Authors: Wolszczak Piotr , Kotnarowski Grzegorz , Małek Arkadiusz , Litak Grzegorz , Posturzyńska Agnieszka
Published: February 2024

The article presents the operation of the automatic pine sawn timber inspection system, which was developed at the Woodinspector company and offered commercially. The vision inspection system is used to detect various wood defects, including knots, blue stain, and mechanical damage caused by worms. Blue stain is a defect that is difficult to detect based on the color of the wood, because it can be easily confused with wood defects or dirt that do not impair its strength properties. In particular, the issues of detecting blue stain in wood, the use of artificial neural networks and improving the operation of the system in production conditions were discussed.
Prospecting for Antarctic Marine Microorganisms to Fix Carbon Dioxide in a Supercritical State (scCO2)
Authors: Ogawa Diogo MItsuo Oliveira , Rozas Enrique Eduardo , Alves Rita Maria de Brito , Do Nascimento Cláudio Augusto Oller
Published: February 2024

2023 was the hottest year ever recorded, global warming accelerates its rising, we witness a series of extreme weather events, more frequent and more intense, climate refugees, infrastructure harmed, forests burning, “meteorological tsunamis”. We failed to meet the main goals of the Kyoto protocol; we are very close to fail in meeting the Paris agreement’s slowing global warming goal. Greenhouse gases emissions are at rise and, even if completely halt, temperatures would keep rising, enhancing the global average. Carbon capture and storage technologies are being developed to counterbalance these emissions by removing such gases from the atmosphere and physically storing or transforming them into useful molecules for the society. In this work we prospect microorganisms that can serve as a platform for developing carbon capture technologies. We process samples from the seabed of Brainsfield Strait region, Antarctica, prospecting for an organism capable of fixing carbon dioxide without light (chemoautotrophic bacterias) and capable of enduring extreme conditions of pressure (100 bar) under 100% supercritical state carbon dioxide atmosphere (scCO2), conditions like those found in oil deposits, where the technology can be of particular use.
Oxide Metamorphic Manganese Ores: An Experimental Results of Heat Treatment
Authors: Safarov Ruslan Zairovich , Kargin Jumat Beysembekovich , Zhandildenova Assemgul Kalybekovna , Aibuldinov Yelaman Kanatovich , Vatin Nikolai Ivanovich , Seo Jiwon , Barnes Crispin Henry William , De Los Santos Valladares Luis
Published: February 2024

The objective of this work is the study the crystal structure and elemental content of braunite-hematite and braunite-psilomelane oxide manganese ores y means of X-ray diffractometry (XRD), Energy Dispersion X-ray (EDX) analysis, and X-Ray fluorescent (XRF) analysis. It was found that heat treatments at 600, 800, and 1000 °C promote the phase transitions of the manganese ores to the formation of thermostable phases hausmannite and bixbyite without change in the metallic composition. The homogeneity of the structure increases with increasing temperature, which is expressed in the decreasing of the Mn content in the EDX spectra after sintering above 800 °C as well as in a decrease of the phase number to only two phases: bixbyite and quartz. Remarkably, the hausmannite phase is obtained in the fraction of 61% after sintering the braunite-hematite ore sample at 1000 °C for 4 h. Since hausmannite is widely used to produce building materials, electrodes, catalysts, and other materials, these results are promising for developing technologies for obtaining new products based on phases of manganese minerals at high temperatures.
The Effect of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation on Visceral Adipose Tissue Volume in Overweight to Obese Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis. A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Burkhardt Benazir , Chaudry Oliver , Kast Stephanie , Von Stengel Simon , Kohl Matthias , Roemer Frank W. , Engelke Klaus , Uder Michael , Kemmler Wolfgang
Published: February 2024

Physical exercise favorably affects visceral adipose tissue (VAT) which is a risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases. However, many people are unable or unwilling to conduct frequent and intensive exercise programs that have favorable effects on VAT. The present study aimed to determine the effect of the time-efficient and joint-friendly whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) technology on VAT volume in overweight to obese adults with osteoarthritis of the knee. In total 72 women and men 40-70 years old with femuro-tibial knee osteoarthritis were randomly allocated to WB-EMS (n=36) with 1.5 sessions of 20 min/week for 29 weeks or a usual care control group (CG: n=36) with 6 sessions of physiotherapy. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) using a non-contrast enhanced 2-point Dixon Gradient Echo Volumetric Interpolated Breath-hold Examination determined VAT. Twelve slices covered a total length of approximately 5 cm from mid L2 to mid L3. In summary, VAT volume increased non-significantly in the CG (p=.261) and decreased non-significantly in the WB-EMS group (p=.160). We failed to determine significant WB-EMS-induced effects i.e. group differences for absolute changes on VAT volume (p=.097). Due to the low application volume, present WB-EMS protocols might not be the perfect tool for decreasing VAT in overweight to obese adults.
A Novel Approach for Controlling and Predicting Residual Sugars in Wines
Authors: Yaa’ri Ronit , Schneiderman Eitan , Ben Aharon Vicky , Stanevsky Maria , Drori Elyashiv
Published: February 2024

Residual sugars (RS) in wine are the sugars that remain in a wine after fermentation is complete. In some wine styles, such as semi-dry wines, the accurate measurement of the RS concentration is critical for both qualitative and legislative reasons. Brix, measured by a simple refractometer, can give a good estimation of the RS concentration in the must, but during fermentation, the presence of alcohol leads to inaccurate sugar measurements. In order to measure the RS accurately, other more precise techniques are used, most of which are expensive or require professional skills. Therefore, novel approaches for rapid, easy, and practical measurements for estimating the sugar content were suggested over the years. However, the majority of these methods do not supply an actual measurement of RS but rather gives brix values, and those that measure RS involve special equipment, which is less relevant for small wineries. The RS values are critical for legislation purposes for deter-mining the wine style. In our study, we suggest a novel model for predicting and controlling the wine's residual sugar, by measuring the initial brix of the must before fermentation, and its density during fermentation. The model was created by measurements of actual residual sugars in natural and synthetic musts and showed high correlations. We used musts with brix values in the common range of fermented wines for our experiments. Thus, the re-gressions we present are practically all a winemaker needs in order to secure an accurate residual sugar in his final wine. By using the model, one can calculate the density values at which the fermentation will reach any desired residual sugar value, for any given initial brix level. This novel approach is a rapid and practical tool that could be very useful for the winemaker for estimating the density at which one should stop the fermentation to achieve specific levels of residual sugars in the wine before fermentation, saving time and reducing costs.
Development of Shared Modeling and Simulation Environment for Sustainable e-Learning in the STEM Field
Authors: Zabasta Anatolijs , Kazymyr Volodymyr , Drozd Oleksandr , Verslype Sammy , Espeel Ludovic , Bruzgiene Rasa
Published: February 2024

A novel educational platform called Shared Modeling and Simulation Environment (SMSE) was initiated in the ERASMUS+ “CybPhys” project. It integrates the Jupyter platform, including Ju-pyter Notebooks, for e-learning in the STEM field. A novel platform enhances e-learning by combining Moodle with Jupyter's capabilities to create virtual labs. A survey was conducted in the spring of 2023 among bachelor and master students of Chernihiv National Polytechnic Uni-versity aimed to gather feedback from students using SMSE in their e-learning process. Two student groups were involved: one of them consisted of students using SMSE in both the autumn and spring semesters and another represented the students starting with SMSE in the spring se-mester. The survey based on the adjusted Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was conducted to understand the acceptance of this e-learning approach. A comprehensive analysis of students’ answers based on the TAM approach revealed the inside of the process of transformation of stu-dents’ perceptions during the acquisition of the SMSE platform. Our research demonstrates that SMSE effectively merges Moodle's online learning capabilities with Jupyter notebooks, provid-ing a flexible and interactive learning experience for both in-class and remote students. It pro-vides a web-based, multifunctional e-learning environment that combines a variety of tools and technologies, giving students the possibility to be involved in all sorts of teaching activities, such as lectures, exercises, simulations, etc., through the use of one single online environment.
Mitochondrial DNA Quantity and Relative Abundance of “Common Deletion” Mutation in Peripheral Nerve Tissues from Donors with HIV Sensory Neuropathy
Authors: Boustani Ali , Andalibi Mohammadsobhan Sheikh , Pérez-Santiago Josué , Mehta Sanjay , Ellis Ronald J. , Fields Jerel Adam
Published: February 2024

Background: Distal sensory polyneuropathy (DSP) and distal neuropathic pain (DNP) remain significant challenges for older people with HIV (PWH), necessitating enhanced clinical attention. HIV and certain antiretroviral therapies (ART) can compromise mitochondrial function and impact mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) replication, which is linked to DSP in ART-treated PWH. Methods: This study investigated mtDNA, mt fission and fusion protein, and mt electron transport chain protein changes in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and sural nerve (SuN) from 11 autopsied PWH. In antemortem standardized assessments, six had no or one sign of DSP, while five exhibited two or more DSP signs. Digital droplet polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) measured mtDNA quantity and the common deletion (CD) in isolated DNA. Results: We found lower mtDNA copy numbers in DSP+ donors. SuN exhibited a higher proportion of mtDNA CD than DRGs in both groups. Mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) proteins were altered in DRG of DSP+ compared to DSP- donors, particularly complex I. Conclusion: These findings suggest reduced mtDNA quantity and increased CD abundance may contribute to DSP in PWH, indicating diminished mitochondrial activity in sensory neurons. Accumulated ETC proteins in the DRG imply impaired mitochondrial transport to the sensory neuron's distal portion. Identifying molecules to safeguard mitochondrial integrity could aid in treating or preventing HIV-associated peripheral neuropathy.
Carboxylic End-Group in Perfluorinated Ionomers: Degradation Mechanism and Modification
Authors: Baturina Ekaterina , Morozova Sofia
Published: February 2024

Perfluorinated ionomers with ionic sulfonic groups are among the most commonly used materials as a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) for hydrogen fuel cells. Despite the high chemical resistance of the C-F bond, which determines the use of this class of compounds, during the operation of the fuel cell, the membrane degrades, resulting in a significant deterioration in the operating parameters of the fuel cell. One of the reasons od degradation is the presence of terminal carboxyl groups in the ionomer, which, under the attack of radicals, disintegrate with the formation of products that poison the catalyst and destroy the membrane. This review examines approaches to the study of degradation associated with the carboxylic group, including both experimental data and modeling, and also provides an overview of approaches to modify the ionomer in order to reduce the concentration of carboxylic end-groups.
Effects of Chemical Composition and Solidification Rate on the Solidification Behavior of High Cr White Irons
Authors: Son Hee Young , Jung In Yong , Choi Baig Gyu , Shin Jong-Ho , Jo Chang-Yong , Lee Je-Hyun
Published: February 2024

The effects of chemical composition and solidification rate on the solidification behavior of high-Cr white irons were investigated through directional solidification. Increasing the solidi-fication rate in hypoeutectic alloys caused the finer dendrite arm spacing as expected. The eutec-tic structure which formed in the interdendritic region comprised of M7C3 and austenite, how-ever, secondary dendrite arms of hypoeutectic alloys contained a few M7C3 particles that solidi-fied prior to the eutectic structure. The transition from cellular to dendritic solidification oc-curred at a solidification rate between 50 µm/s and 100 µm/s in a near eutectic alloy. In the near eutectic alloy with cellular solidification, a directionally arrayed in-situ composite of M7C3/austenite formed within the cell. Speckle-like feature appeared in the intercellular region due to M23C6 carbide precipitation during subsequent cooling after freezing. Like dendrite arm spacing in hypoeutectic alloys, the inter-speckle spacing and the inter-fibre spacing became finer with increasing solidification rate in the cellular solidification range.
Breathing Right… or Left! The Effects of Unilateral Nostril Breathing over Psychological and Cognitive Wellbeing. A Pilot Study
Authors: Vanutelli Maria Elide , Grigis Chiara , Lucchiari Claudio
Published: February 2024

The impact of controlled breathing on cognitive and affective processing has been recognized since ancient times, giving rise to multiple practices aimed at achieving different psychophysical states, mostly related to mental clarity and focus, stress reduction and relaxation. Previous scientific research explored the effects of unilateral nostril breathing (UNB) over brain activity, emotional and cognitive functions. Most evidence concluded for a contralateral effect, but many other controversial results make it difficult to come to an unambiguous interpretation. In the present study, we invited a pilot sample of 20 participants to take part in an 8-days breathing training, assigned either to the right nostril (URNB) or the left nostril breathing condition (ULNB). Then, each day, we assessed participants’ well-being indices with mood and mind-wandering scales. Results revealed that, after the daily practice, both groups reported improved well-being perception. However, the effect was specifically related to the nostril involved. URNB produced more benefits in terms of stress reduction and relaxation, while ULNB significantly reduced mind-wandering occurrences, increasingly over time. Our results are only partially in agreement with previous evidence, indicating the need for a more complex interpretive model that considers multiple brain networks and integrates central and peripheral nervous systems.
Digital Elevation Models and Orthomosaics of the Dutch Noordwest Natuurkern Foredune Restoration Project
Authors: Ruessink Gerben , Groenendijk Dick , Arens Bas
Published: February 2024

Coastal dunes worldwide are increasingly under pressure from the adverse effects of human activities. Therefore, more and more restoration measures are being taken to create conditions that help disturbed coastal dune ecosystems regenerate or recover naturally. However, many projects lack (open-access) monitoring observations needed to signal whether further actions are needed, and hence to learn by doing. This submission presents an open access data set of 37 high-resolution digital elevation models and 24 orthomosaics collected before and after the excavation of five artificial foredune trough blowouts ("notches") in winter 2012/2013 in the Dutch Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, one of the largest coastal dune restoration projects in northwest Europe. These high-resolution data provide a valuable resource for improving understanding of the biogeomorphic processes that determine the evolution of restored dune systems, as well as developing guidelines to better design future restoration efforts with foredune notching.
Shapley’s Value as a Resource Optimization Strategy for Digital Radio Transmission over IBOC FM
Authors: Rico Martínez Mónica , Vesga Ferreira Juan Carlos , Carroll Vargas Joel , Rodríguez María Consuelo , Toro Andres Alejandro Diaz , Cuevas William
Published: February 2024

The hybrid in-band on-channel (IBOC) transmission system as a digital audio radio scheme could transmit analog FM and digital audio simultaneously. In IBOC systems, broadcasters transmit signals within the allocated channel bands, so the bandwidth allocated for digital audio transmission is a big challenge. In view of the above, the use of cooperative game theory, supported by the use of the bankruptcy game and Shapley's value, is proposed as a strategy to optimize the bandwidth allocation at each node or station, according to the demand in the service, the number of stations and the radio channel conditions in the FM band. The paper proposes a scenario under saturated traffic conditions, in order to evaluate the degree of optimization that the Shapley value can perform under clearly established traffic and channel conditions. The evaluation process yielded a quite favorable result, where it is observed that the use of cooperative game theory supported by the Shapley value can be considered as an excellent alternative when performing bandwidth optimization processes for digital broadcasting over IBOC in FM and with the possibility of being implemented in other digital radio broadcasting systems.
The Impact of Digital Economy on Total Factor Energy Efficiency: A Quasi-experimental Study Based on the “Broadband China” Pilot Policy
Authors: Yao Xiaojin , Liu Hua
Published: February 2024

In the context of the coordinated development of digital economy and environmental protection, we take the strategy of "Broadband China" as a quasi-natural experiment, adopts the panel data of 284 cities from 2007 to 2020, and evaluates the policy effect of digital economy on total factor energy efficiency through the progressive DID model. The results show that: The construction of "Broadband China" demonstration city has significantly promoted the improvement of the total factor energy efficiency of the demonstration city, but there is also significant urban heterogeneity, which is manifested in the significant improvement of the total factor energy efficiency of the eastern city, the southern city, the big city and the non-resource-based city. It has no significant effect on the total factor energy efficiency of central and western cities, northern cities, small and medium-sized cities and resource-based cities. The construction of "Broadband China" demonstration cities can improve total factor energy efficiency by promoting technological progress and strengthening environmental regulations. Therefore, we should further strengthen the construction of digital infrastructure and give full play to its positive effects. Different cities should seek differentiated development paths based on their own resource endowments and development conditions, so that the digital economy can effectively improve the total factor energy efficiency.
Pharmacological Activation of TRPC6 Channel Prevents Colitis Progression.
Authors: Nishiyama Kazuhiro , Kato Yuri , Nishimura Akiyuki , Mi Xinya , Nagata Ryu , Mori Yasuo , Azuma Yasu-Taka , Nishida Motohiro
Published: February 2024

Zn2+ has been implicated in the regulation of intestinal redox and microbial homeostasis, and we recently reported that transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) 6 channel activity contributes to intracellular Zn2+ homeostasis in mammalian cells. This study aims to investigate the role of TRPC6-mediated Zn2+ influx in stress resistance of intestine. Expression profile of TRPC1-C7 mRNAs in the actively inflamed mucosa from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients was analyzed using GEO database. Systemic TRPC3-knockout (KO) and TRPC6-KO mice were treated with dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) to induce colitis. The Zn2+ concentration and the mRNA expression levels of oxidative/inflammatory markers in colon tissues were quantitatively analyzed, and gut microbiota profiles were compared. TRPC6 mRNA expression level was increased in IBD patients and DSS-treated mouse colon tissues. DSS-treated TRPC6-KO mice, but not TRPC3-KO mice, showed severe weight loss and increased disease activity index compared with DSS-treated WT mice. The mRNA abundances of antioxidant proteins were basically increased in TRPC6-KO colon, with changes in gut microbiota profiles. Treatment with TRPC6 activator prevented the DSS-induced colitis progression accompanied by increasing Zn2+ concentration. We suggest that TRPC6-mediated Zn2+ influx activity plays a key role in stress resistance against IBD, providing a new strategy for treating colitis.
The Use of Computer Tomography Method in the Analysis of the Microstructure of Materials Formed as a Result of Hydrothermal Treatment: Cellular Concretes
Authors: STEPIEN Anna , Dachowski Ryszard
Published: February 2024

The subject of the research are materials formed as a result of hydrothermal treatment, in this case cellular concretes, both traditional and modified with plastics (HIPS). There are two types of materials resulting from hydrothermal treatment: autoclaved sand-lime bricks and autoclaved concrete. Both in the case of ABK and silicates, the basic stubstrates used during their production are: lime, sand and water (cement is also added to cellular concrete). The article presents the methodology of testing the porous structure of autoclaved materials with the use of computed tomography. Aerated concrete (light autoclaved concrete) has a compressive strength of 2-6 MPa. The tests included aerated concrete modified with high-impact polystyrene, commonly known as HIPS. HIPS high-impact polystyrene is a thermoplastic polymer that is obtained by block-suspension polymerization of styrene with the addition of synthetic rubber. As a result of polymerization, small particles of polybutadiene remain in the polystyrene male, changing its physical and mechanical properties. The results from the content of air voids in the autoclaved concrete sample with HIPS were on average: 52.53%.
A Multi Criteria Decision Making Framework For Zero Emission Vechicle Fleet Renewal Considering Lifeycle And Scenario Uncertaintiy
Authors: Aiello Giuseppe , Quaranta Salvatore , Inguanta Rosalinda , Certa Antonella , Mario Venticinque
Published: February 2024

In the last decade, with the increased concerns about the global environmental situation, attempts have been made to promote the replacement of fossil fuels with sustainable sources. For transport, which accounts for around a quarter of total greenhouse gas emissions, meeting climate neutrality goals will require replacing existing fleets with electric or hydrogen propelled vehicles. This research addresses the problem of transport fleet renewal by proposing a multi-criteria decision-making approach, taking into account the multiple propulsion technologies currently available and the objectives of the EU Green Deal, as well as the uncertainty related to the technological scenario, in a generalized Life Cycle framework. The proposed approach, based on the TOPSIS model, demonstrates how the optimality of the choice is related to the different technological scenarios and to the risky attitude of the decision maker. The proposed methodology is finally validated against a practical case referred the strategic fleet renewal decision process, and the results obtained demonstrate how the decision maker’s perception about the technological evolution of the propulsion technologies influences the decision process, thus leading to different optimal choices.
Stability Analysis and Delay Compensation for Space Instable Target Simulator
Authors: Bai Xinlin , Li Xiwen , Zhao Zhen , Xu Zhigang , Lu Han , Liu Mingyang
Published: February 2024

Space instable target simulator (SITS) is a vital actuator for ground verification of on-orbital capture technology, the motion performance of which directly affects simulation credibility. Different delays reduce the stability of SITS and ultimately lead to its divergence. In order to achieve high fidelity simulation, the impact of force measurement delay, discrete control cycle, and simulator response delay on stability is analyzed firstly. Then, the dynamic equation and transfer function identification model of hybrid simulator is constructed, and the necessary and sufficient conditions of its stability and convergence are obtained using the Routh criterion. After that, a switching compensator with variable gain is proposed, the compensation principle diagram of which is build, and its mathematical model including the energy observer and tracking differentiator is also established. Finally, three sets of numerical simulations are conducted to validate the correctness of the stability analysis and effectiveness of proposed compensation method. Simulation results show that all three types of delay can cause SITS to lose stability under critical stable motion state, and the delay in force measurement has the greatest impact, followed by the influence of control cycle. Compared with the force applied to simulated target, velocity and its recovery coefficient of space instable target using fixed gain and linear gain compensation, the proposed compensator has significantly better performance.
Onco-Hypertension: A New Field between Cancer and Hypertension
Authors: Totolici Stefan , Vrabie Ana-Maria , Badila Elisabeta , Weiss Emma
Published: February 2024

The prognosis of cancer patients has greatly improved in the last years, owing to the development of novel chemotherapeutic agents. However, this progress comes with an increasing occurrence of cardiovascular adverse reactions. A serious side effect is arterial hypertension, which is the most frequent comorbidity encountered in cancer patients, influencing the outcomes in cancer survivors. Even though secondary hypertension related to specific chemotherapeutic agents, such as vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors, is usually mild and reversible, in rare instances it can be severe, leading to discontinuation of chemotherapy. In addition, hypertension per se has been studied as a potential risk factor for cancer development. The relationship is even more complex than previously thought, as concerning evidence recently highlighted the potential oncogenic effects of antihypertensive drugs, such as thiazide diuretics predisposing to skin cancer. As a result, under the light of the similar risk factors and overlapping pathophysiological mechanisms between hypertension and cancer, a promising concept of onco-hypertension has emerged, aiming to improve the understanding of the complicated interplay between these two pathologies and maintain a balance between the efficacy and risks of both antihypertensive drugs and chemotherapy agents.
Research Progress of NK Cell-Based Nanomaterials in Tumor Immunotherapy and Imaging
Authors: Feng Yachan , Zhang Haojie , Shao Jiangtao , Du Chao , Zhou Xiaolei , Guo Xueling , Wang Yingze
Published: February 2024

Tumor immunotherapy represented by immune target blocking and chimeric antigen receptor cell therapy has developed rapidly. Among them, Natural Killer Cell (NK) is gradually becoming another preferred immunotherapy method after T cell immunotherapy because of its unique killing effect in innate immunity and adaptive immunity. Although NK cell therapy has achieved promising results in clinical trials, there are still some problems, such as low efficacy in solid tumors, insufficient penetration of NK cells and high cost of treatment. Nanomaterials are expected to be an excellent tool to improve the anti-tumor immune response of NK cells due to their advantages such as chemical specificity, biocompatibility and simple synthesis. Nanomaterials can enhance the cytotoxicity of NK cells, participate in the modification and noninvasive cell-tracking patterns of NK cells，and mediate their homing and infiltration, and thus significantly improve the efficiency of NK cell immunotherapy. In this review, we will briefly introduce the methods and mechanisms of tumor immunotherapy, emphasize the research progress of NK cell-based immunotherapy and imaging, and finally summarize the direction and research progress of nanomaterials in NK cell-based immunotherapy.
Распространение вариантов вируса SARS-COV-2, вызывающих интерес (VOI) и находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), на основе количества их геномов, депонированных в базу данных GISAID за неделю с 27 января по 2 февраля 2024 г
Authors: Дмитриева Людмила , Краснов Ярослав , Гусева Наталья , Чумачкова Елена , Осина Наталья , Зимирова Анастасия , Иванова Александра , Карнаухов Игорь , Караваева Татьяна , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: February 2024

В обзоре представлена информация по циркулирующим в настоящее время вариантам вируса SARS-COV-2 Omicron вызывающих интерес (VOI) и находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), геномные последовательности которых размещены в международной базе данных GISAID за неделю с 27 января по 2 февраля 2024 г.
Sepenggal Kisah Pengabdian Di Kala Pandemi
Authors: Hanun Nur Ravita
Published: February 2024

Rasa syukur selalu tercurah kepada Allah SWT yang senantiasa melimpahkan rahmat, hidayah serta kesehatan, sehingga kami dapat melaksanakan program Kuliah Kerja Nyata Tangguh (KKN - Tangguh) Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo tahun 2020.Kuliah Kerja Nyata (KKN) adalah program yang ditempuh mahasiswa Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo merupakan perwujudan dari salah satu Catur Dharma Perguruan Tinggi, yaitu bermaksud memberikan pengalaman secara langsung baik fisik maupun mental kepada calon sarjana dengan terjun bersama masyarakat dengan menerapkan ilmu jurusan masing-masing.
Tebar Harapan Di Kala Pendemi
Authors: Hanun Nur Ravita
Published: February 2024

Akhir Desember 2019 awal mula kasus Covid-19 ditemukan di Wuhan, Cina. Tanggal 26 Januari 2020, terdapat lebih dari 2000 kasus infeksi pada manusia, dan Covid-19 dikonfirmasi merupakan bentuk penularan dari manusia ke manusia (zoonosis) (Lu et al., 2020). Organisasi International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses menyebut virus penyebab penyakit Coronavirus Disease-19 (Covid-19) yakni “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (virus SARS-CoV-2)” (Lai et al., 2020). WHO telah menetapkan status pandemi global untuk Covid-19 karena telah menyebar dari hari ke hari hingga ke seluruh penjuru dunia (WHO, 2020).Era teknologi digital saat ini adalah saatnya untuk menempatkan infrastruktur digital untuk melakukan pengawasan kasus kesehatan global tersebut. Pelaporan secara elektronik akan meningkatkan efisiensi ini dan studi kesehatan masyarakat lainnya yang melibatkan pengujian secara langsung di lapangan (Lipsitch et al., 2020). Penggunaan teknologi di bidang medis sudah menjadi hal yang biasa dalam membantu dokter mendiagnosis penyakit. Teknologi ini sangat membantu dalam semua aspek seperti pengarsipan data dan media informasi. Salah satu tren teknologi saat ini adalah sistem pakar (expert system). Sistem pakar merupakan sistem berbasis komputer yang menggunakan pengetahuan, fakta, dan teknik penalaran dalam menyelesaikan masalah yang biasanya hanya dipecahkan oleh seorang pakar di bidang tertentu (Wiyanti et al., 2018).
The influence of mesoscale atmospheric convection on local infrasound propagation
Authors: Alter Ross , Swearingen Michelle , McKenna Mihan
Published: February 2024

Infrasound—that is, acoustic waves with frequencies below the threshold of human hearing—has historically been used to detect and locate distant explosive events over global ranges (≥1,000 km). Simulations over these ranges have traditionally relied on large-scale, synoptic meteorological information. However, infrasound propagation over shorter, local ranges (0–100 km) may be affected by smaller, mesoscale meteorological features. To identify the effects of these mesoscale meteorological features on local infrasound propagation, simulations were conducted using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) meteorological model to approximate the meteorological conditions associated with a series of historical, small-scale explosive test events that occurred at the Big Black Test Site in Bovina, Mississippi. These meteorological conditions were then incorporated into a full-wave acoustic model to generate meteorology-informed predictions of infrasound propagation. A series of WRF simulations was conducted with varying degrees of horizontal resolution—1, 3, and 15 km—to investigate the spatial sensitivity of these infrasound predictions. The results illustrate that convective precipitation events demonstrate potentially observable effects on local infrasound propagation due to strong, heterogeneous gradients in temperature and wind associated with the convective events themselves. Therefore, to accurately predict infrasound propagation on local scales, it may be necessary to use convection-permitting meteorological models with a horizontal resolution ≤4 km at locations and times that support mesoscale convective activity.
Extreme cold weather airfield damage repair testing at Goose Bay Air Base, Canada
Authors: Carruth William , Melendy Terry , Blaisdell George , Watts Benjamin , Kennedy Danielle , Tingle Jeb , Bianchini Alessandra
Published: February 2024

Rapid Airfield Damage Recovery (RADR) technologies have proven successful in temperate and subfreezing temperatures but have not been evaluated in extreme cold weather temperatures near 0°F. To address this capability gap, laboratory-scale and full-scale testing was conducted at these temperatures. Methods developed for moderate climates were adapted and demonstrated alongside methods that used snow harvested on-site as compacted backfill. After only a few days of training, seven experimental repairs were conducted by Canadian airmen at Goose Bay Air Base in Labrador, Canada, and load tested with a single-wheel C-17 load cart. Existing RADR technologies performed adequately despite the freezing temperatures, with the main tactic, techniques, and procedures modification being an increased cure time for the rapid-setting concrete surface material. Compacted snow-water slurry methods also performed well, demonstrating their ability to withstand over 500 passes of single-wheel C-17 traffic after sufficient freezing time.
Geochronological and Geochemical Constraints on the Magmatic Evolution of the Dun Mountain Ophiolite Belt, New Zealand
Authors: Patias Daniel , Zhou Renjie , C. Aitchison Jonathan
Published: February 2024

New whole-rock major and trace element geochemical, zircon U-Pb geochronological, and Hf isotopic data from gabbroic rocks in New Zealand’s mid-Permian Dun Mountain ophiolite belt (DMO) provide insight into the evolution of subduction systems and early stages of intraoceanic arc development. Fe-oxide-bearing gabbros yielded high εHf(t) values (+10.3 to +13) and zircon U-Pb ages of 271.6 ± 0.6 Ma. In contrast, Fe-Ti-oxide-bearing gabbros of 268.1 ± 0.6 Ma show more enriched geochemical characteristics, including a wide range of εHf(t) values (+15.5 to +6.8). New findings strengthen the evolutionary model for the DMO and place constraints on its youngest known magmatic episode. We infer that late magmatism fingerprinted by these gabbros, including consistent negative Nb-Ta anomalies, reflects early stages of arc development and formation of island arc tholeiites on the DMO. Our model is consistent with other existing regional geochronological and geochemical data, implying that the DMO had an early stage of normal-mid-ocean ridge basalt crustal accretion followed by an influx of slab-derived components and maturity of the subducting system between ca. 271.6 and 268 Ma. These results extend our understanding of the evolution of distinct intraoceanic systems.
Toponimia y Didáctica de la Geografía. Una propuesta metodológica sobre el aprovechamiento de los nombres de lugar en las salidas de campo
Authors: Ordinas Garau Antoni
Published: February 2024

A partir de la reflexión sobre la estrecha relación entre la Toponimia y la Geografía, se presenta una propuesta metodológica para aprovechar el potencial didáctico de los nombres de lugar en la enseñanza de la Geografía mediante las salidas de campo. La experiencia adquirida en la investigación sobre la toponimia que ha supuesto la recopilación, clasificación y análisis de miles de topónimos de las islas Baleares, ha permitido diseñar una metodología que descubre la riqueza informativa y descriptiva del conjunto de los nombres de lugar. Ante la escasez de estudios sobre esta temática, nuestra aportación puede ser de utilidad a los docentes que se propongan un mayor conocimiento del territorio que se visita y de las claves para la interpretación de sus paisajes.